Document Document Title
US07706819B2 Mixed-mode interaction
A user of a wireless device, such as a mobile phone, can make purchases or obtain information via a network, such as the Internet, using both voice and non-verbal methods. Users can submit voice queries and receive non-verbal replies, submit non-verbal queries and receive voice replies, or perform similar operations that marry the voice and data capabilities of modern mobile communication devices. The user may provide notification criteria indicating under what conditions a notification should be sent to the user's wireless device. When purchasing opportunities matching the selected notification criteria become available, the user is notified. The user can respond to the notification, and immediately take advantage of the purchasing opportunity if he so desires. Mixed-mode interactions can also be used by sellers to more advantageously control the marketing of distressed, time sensitive, or other merchandise/services.
US07706814B2 System and method for generating a location estimate for a mobile station
The method generates a location estimate for a mobile station in a wireless communications network. The method includes receiving first measurement data relating to at least one radio link between the mobile station and a first site, and provides a first distance estimate of the mobile station from the first site based on the first measurement data. Second measurement data is received, relating to at least one radio link between the mobile station and a second site and provides a second distance estimate of the mobile station from the second site. First and second intersection points are determined between a circle centered at the first site of a radius corresponding to the first distance estimate, and a circle centered at the second site of the radius corresponding to the second distance estimate. The first and second intersection points lie on opposite sides of a line passing through the first and second sites. At least one of the first and second intersection points are used in the determination of the location estimate.
US07706808B1 One-click service status tracking and updates
A system and method to one-click service status tracking and updates. In one embodiment, in response to activation of a mobile device, providing GPS location information of the mobile device; the mobile device registering with a server to identify a user of the mobile device with a service and a service provider of the service; and the mobile device providing to the user real-time status information related to the service. In one embodiment, at least one of the service provider and user are in transit. In one embodiment, the information received from the server includes one of the service provider ID and contact info for the user to contact the service provider directly. In one embodiment, the activation includes a single click of a feature on the mobile device.
US07706806B2 Systems and methods for evaluating a change in class for a point of communication
A computer-based program performs calculations to analyze, vary, test, manage, and/or improve the performance of channels and/or frequencies in the communication spectrum. The program varies parameters of a point of communication, such as the location, transmission power, channel frequency, antenna height, and the like, alone or in combination, to measure, test, and/or evaluate which parameter changes increase the market coverage of a target market or area. In some scenarios, changes to one point of communication cause the regulations governing the broadcast relationship between one or more nearby points of communication to be violated. When this occurs, the program determines which of the parameters, such as the location, transmission power, channel and/or frequency, antenna height, and the like, alone or in combination, of the point of communication interfering with the increased market coverage scenario to vary to overcome the conflict with communications and/or regulatory law. In addition, the program can determine simultaneously which of the parameters of multiple points of communication to vary to overcome the conflict with communications and/or regulatory law. The program outputs multiple solutions with varying degrees of difficulty and varying amounts of performance improvement.
US07706803B2 Network support for RF backhaul for very remote base stations
An apparatus in one example has: an RF-based base station in a telecommunications network; the RF-based base station having a base station transceiver; the telecommunications network having a network transceiver; and the base station transceiver and the network transceiver being structured for backhaul traffic and signaling for incoming and outgoing mobile calls to a mobile terminal that is operatively coupled to the base station.
US07706797B2 Method for inter-system inter-MSC handover to UMA
Disclosed is a method of executing a handover in a system including a core network comprising two mobile services switching center. Both mobile services switching center can be accessed to by a cellular access as well as by a non-cellular access. The system further includes a terminal which can access to both mobile services switching center over the cellular access as well as over the non-cellular access. The method comprises the steps of handing over a call of the terminal to non-cellular access involving also a handover from a first one of said two mobile services switching center to a second one of said two mobile services switching center, and indicating in a message that the call of the terminal was handed over to non-cellular access, wherein said message is sent from the second mobile services switching center to the first mobile services switching center.
US07706796B2 User terminal-initiated hard handoff from a wireless local area network to a cellular network
A system and method are provided for supporting a multi-mode portable user terminal (UT) hard handoff procedure for a call from a wireless local area network (WLAN) to a cellular telephone network. The method includes: establishing a link between a UT and a serving WLAN; establishing a call via the established WLAN link; monitoring the WLAN link signal strength; simultaneously monitoring a serving cellular network; initiating a hard handoff to the cellular network, responsive to the monitored WLAN link signal strength falling below a minimum threshold; and, continuing the call via the cellular network. More specifically, the method initiates a call handoff to a Cellular Gateway (CGW) telephone number, responsive to the monitored WLAN link signal strength falling below the minimum threshold. Then, continuing the call via the cellular network includes continuing the call to the first telephone number via the CGW handoff telephone number.
US07706792B1 Intelligent customer care support
In a mobile communications system a visiting location register (VLR) associated with a switching receives an address of an external control component and a service identifier identifying a service to be performed by the external control component from a home location register (HLR) associated with a mobile communications device. When a customer care call from the mobile communications device is received at the switching center, the switching center suspends call processing and queries the external control component utilizing the address from the VLR. The external control component performs the service indicated by the service indicator and determines a translation for the customer care call and returns information to the switching center for routing the call according to the translation. The translation may be determined at least in part according to the service performed by the external control component. The translation may be determined at least in part according to one or more of time of day, day of week, location of the switching center, or NPA-Nxx. The service indicator and address of the external control component may be provided by the HLR in Dialed CAMEL Subscription Information (D-CSI) associated with the mobile communication device.
US07706791B2 Method for telecommunication, identification module and computerized service unit
A subscriber, who logs into a visited communication network (VPMN), in particular a mobile network, by means of his communication terminal (2) and his identification module (SIM) connected thereto, is transmitted, automatically or upon request, (S1) a subscriber identification (IMSI-P) from the number range of the visited communication network (VPMN) (S2). The received subscriber identification (IMSI-P) from the number range of the visited communication network (VPMN) is stored and activated in the identification module (SIM) of the subscriber. The subscriber can afterwards log into the visited communication network (VPMN) as a local subscriber.
US07706786B2 System for managing program applications storable in a mobile terminal
Management server 16 may obtain application programs from content server 20 in response to requests of mobile terminal 11. Management server 16 may transmit the obtained application programs to mobile terminal 11 with information concerning reliabilities of the application programs. After mobile terminal 11 receives the application programs from management server 16, mobile terminal 11 manages operations of the application programs. Operations of the application programs are coordinated with operations of other programs using the information concerning the reliabilities corresponding to the application programs. Management of the coordinated operations of the application programs avoids problems concerning information security, where valuable information may be distributed unexpectedly because of operations of low reliable application programs. As a result, convenience of users of mobile terminals 11 can be improved without deteriorating the information security of mobile terminals 11.
US07706778B2 System and method for remotely assigning and revoking access credentials using a near field communication equipped mobile phone
The present invention is generally directed toward a mobile device that can be used in a secure access system. More specifically, the mobile device can have credential data loaded thereon remotely updated, enabled, disabled, revoked, or otherwise altered with a message sent from, for example, a control panel and/or controller in the system.
US07706772B2 Power saving system and method for mobile wireless network device using historical periods of signal intermittence and reliability
A system and method for managing battery energy usage by a mobile wireless network which detects threshold conditions for network signal found and lost; records historical events of signal found and lost with operational criteria associated with operational conditions of the events such as time, day, date, tower number, and geographic location; upon each detection of network signal loss, determines from the recorded event records a nap termination condition upon which network signal has been historically reliable; and enters a battery-saving nap mode until the nap termination condition is met.
US07706768B2 Diversity switching
A method for switched diversity, including: determining, on a pair-wise basis, a plurality of comparative quality factors corresponding to at least two antennas based on signals received by the at least two antennas; filtering, over a period of time, multiple instances of at least one of the plurality of comparative quality factors; and selecting at least one of the signals to couple to at least one receiver chain based on the comparative quality factors.
US07706764B2 Systems and methods for active noise cancellation in an RFID tag reader
Systems and methods for providing active noise cancellation in an RFID tag reader are described. In one aspect, the method features increasing the signal-to-noise-plus-interference ratio of a radio frequency tag response. The method includes receiving, with a first antenna element of a radio frequency tag reader, a radio frequency tag response having a noise-plus-interference portion and a response portion, receiving a noise-plus-interference signal with a second antenna element of the radio frequency tag reader, and processing the received radio frequency tag response and the noise-plus-interference signal to increase a signal-to-noise-plus-interference ratio of the received radio frequency tag response.
US07706755B2 Digital, down-converted RF residual leakage signal mitigating RF residual leakage
The present invention provides an RF transmission leakage mitigator for use with a full-duplex, wireless transceiver. In one embodiment, the RF transmission leakage mitigator includes an inversion generator configured to provide an RF transmission inversion signal of an interfering transceiver RF transmission to a receiving portion of the transceiver thereby creating a residual leakage signal. Additionally, the RF transmission leakage mitigator also includes a residual processor coupled to the inversion generator and configured to adjust the RF transmission inversion signal of the interfering transceiver RF transmission based on reducing the residual leakage signal to a specified level.
US07706754B2 Methods and apparatuses for measuring frequencies of basestations in cellular networks using mobile GPS receivers
Methods and apparatuses for frequency synchronizing basestations in a cellular communication system. In one aspect of the invention, a method to predict a timing of transmission of a basestation in a cellular communication system includes: receiving a first time tag for a first timing marker in a first cellular signal transmitted from the basestation; receiving a second time tag of a second timing marker in a second cellular signal transmitted from the basestation; and computing a frequency related to the basestation using the first and second time tags. Each of the time tags are determined using at least one satellite positioning system signal received at a mobile station which receives the corresponding time marker.
US07706752B2 Wireless communication terminal and method for controlling power and using channel by adjusting channel bandwidth of wireless communication terminal
A wireless communication terminal and a method for controlling power and using a channel by adjusting a channel bandwidth of the wireless communication terminal. The wireless communication terminal generates a plurality of channels by dividing at least part of a frequency band for ultra-wideband communications to a plurality of frequency bands, receives a chaotic signal having a plurality of frequency components in the channels, and adjusts a frequency bandwidth which forms the channel when a certain condition is satisfied. Accordingly, since the chaotic carrier is transmitted and received in the narrow frequency band by adjusting the frequency bandwidth, the power consumption can be reduced drastically and the high-quality communications are feasible between the portable terminal and the wireless headset in the optimized channel environment. Furthermore, a greater number of portable terminals and wireless headsets can execute the radio communications in a certain wireless communication range.
US07706745B2 Method, system, apparatus, and computer program product for communications relay
A method, system, apparatus, and computer program product for relaying packet information from an Out of Range Device (ORD) to a communications tower. The method includes transmitting a message from the ORD. The message is recognizable by a transceiver device as a message to be repeated. The message is stored in the transceiver device which also measures a received signal quality of the message, and relays the message after delaying for a time interval inversely proportional to received signal quality.
US07706738B2 Paper discharge device and image forming apparatus having the same
A paper discharge device and an image forming apparatus having the same are provided. In the paper discharge device, the paper discharge roller has a non-uniform diameter extending in a longitudinal direction and the idle roller contacts with the paper discharge roller in the longitudinal direction of the paper discharge roller so that the print paper unfolds and discharges utilizing a velocity differential at a nip between the paper discharge roller and the idle roller.
US07706730B2 Image recording device having a charge producing section upstream of a transfer receiving body
An image forming device which transfers a toner image carried on an image carrying body from the image carrying body to a transfer receiving body in a transfer section, the device including a charge producing section provided at an upstream side, in a moving direction of the transfer receiving body, with respect to a position at which the image carrying body and the transfer receiving body oppose each other so as not to be contacted with the transfer receiving body.
US07706716B2 Image forming apparatus including structural frame
The present invention provides an image forming apparatus which prevents deformation of a structural frame caused by external force or weight of the apparatus itself, when set on a surface such as a conventional desk or floor, prevents image defects such as image deformation and the like without reducing the degree of accuracy of positioning support of respective printing devices inside the image forming apparatus, and furthermore also makes precise color matching possible while also being low price, easily assembled, compact, lightweight, highly reliable, and capable of obtaining high quality images. The structural frame of the image forming apparatus includes side wall portions made of resin and provided on either side of the apparatus, and at least two connectors formed from metal, for connecting the side wall portions, an image forming unit being supported by the side wall portions, and the connectors joining the side wall portions in substantially perpendicular and substantially horizontal directions.
US07706713B2 Image forming apparatus and cleaning method therefor
An image forming apparatus includes an image bearing member, a charging roll that charges the image bearing member by rotating in contact with the image bearing member, and a cleaning member that removes materials adhered to the surface of the charging roll by contacting the surface of the charging roll. The cleaning member includes a foam body having an average cell diameter of 0.18 mm to 1.0 mm, and a ten point height of irregularities (Rz: JIS B0601-1982) of the charging roll is 1 μm to 17 μm.
US07706707B2 Fixing apparatus
In one embodiment, in a standby mode, an endless heating belt is caused to move apart from a hot roller. Furthermore, in color mode, the endless heating belt is caused to contact the hot roller to make possible thermal conduction between the endless heating belt and the hot roller, and a surface temperature of the endless heating belt is adjusted within a prescribed range of 200° C. to 210° C. being higher than a fixing temperature of 180° C. Further still, in monochrome mode, a length (or a surface area) of a heating contact region between the endless heating belt and the hot roller is set to a maximum to increase a thermal conduction efficiency between the endless heating belt and the hot roller, and a surface temperature of the endless heating belt is adjusted within a prescribed range of 210° C. to 220° C. being sufficiently higher than the fixing temperature of 180° C.
US07706701B2 Image forming apparatus, method of acquiring toner-cartridge information and toner cartridge
An image forming apparatus of the invention permits a toner cartridge equipped with a non-volatile memory storing various information items to be mounted in a mounting portion of an apparatus main body through a toner-cartridge mounting panel capable of being opened and closed without suspending an image forming operation. In a case where an opened/closed status of the toner-cartridge mounting panel is detected, the apparatus retrieves cartridge-specific information from the non-volatile memory of the toner cartridge. The other data than the cartridge-specific information is read out only from a non-volatile memory of a toner cartridge, the cartridge-specific information of which differs from cartridge-specific information stored in a memory of the apparatus main body.
US07706699B2 Toner container and image forming apparatus
A toner container includes a longitudinal container body, a held portion, and an electric component. The longitudinal container body has a first end and a second end distal to the first end in a length direction of the container body. The held portion is attached to the first end of the container body and configured to be detachably attached to the toner-container holder. The held portion includes a toner outlet for discharging the toner. The electric component electrically communicates with a component in the main body to detect whether the toner container is operatively set in the toner-container holder. The electric component is attached to the held portion such that when the held portion is attached to the toner-container holder the electric component is located above the toner outlet with respect to a vertical direction.
US07706698B2 Remote control system and receiver
When operation keys are operated, a light-emitting device outputs an infrared signal corresponding to the operated operation keys. The infrared signal is applied to a light-detecting device. In response to the applied infrared signal, the light-detecting device generates a detected signal and supplies the detected signal to an amplifying circuit. The amplified detected signal from the amplifying circuit is decoded by a decoding circuit into a data code, which is supplied through an interface circuit to a computer. Based on control data supplied as the data code to the computer, the computer controls a projector to perform a process of displaying images page by page, for example.
US07706695B2 Optical DQPSK receiver apparatus
An interferometer comprises a delay element and a phase shift element. The delay element delays an optical DQPSK signal by one-symbol time. The phase shift element shifts the optical DQPSK signal by π/8. A pair of photodiodes converts each of a pair of optical signals output from the interferometer into an electric signal. A photodetector circuit converts differential current obtained by a pair of the photodiodes into voltage and outputs as a detection signal. A first decision circuit outputs one-bit information based on the voltage of the detection signal. A second decision circuit outputs one-bit information based on a squared value of the voltage of the detection signal.
US07706693B2 Optically transmitting apparatus, optically transmitting system and optically transmitting method
This provides an optically transmitting apparatus, an optically transmitting system and an optically transmitting method. This receives an optical signal which is configured in accordance with any one frame format among a plurality of frame formats and includes at least a clock signal and a data signal, and performs an optical-electric/electric-optical conversion on the received optical signal, and extracts the clock signal and the data signal, which correspond to the frame format, from the optical-electric converted signal. This correlates and stores an idle code indicative of a block where the actual data is not communicated and the frame format, reads the idle code from the extracted data signal, identifies the frame format corresponding to the read idle code, and executes a transmitting process in accordance with the identified frame format.
US07706692B2 Consumer electronics with optical communication interface
Digital electronic devices for optical communication of digital video and/or audio signals between a digital source device and a digital sink device. A digital source device includes a transition minimized differential signaling (TMDS) transmitter for receiving control and digital video signals from a source controller and for converting the control and digital video signals into electric TMDS signals. An interface receives a first end of an optical fiber. An optical transmitter converts the electric TMDS signals to at least one optical signal and transmits the at least one optical signal to the first end of the optical fiber. A digital sink device receives the at least one optical signal from a second end of the optical fiber and converts the optical signal into TMDS signals. A TMDS receiver converts the TMDS signals into control and digital video signals and transmits the control and digital video signals to the sink controller.
US07706688B2 Wavelength reconfigurable optical network
The invention provides a unified optical network architecture for metro and access communication networks, wherein a metro ring network interfaces access PONs through one or more reconfigurable Optical Add/Drop Multiplexers to provide wavelength-reconfigurable all-optical transmission of communication signals from the metro ring network to designated optical network units associated with the end-users, and wherein one metro hub located in the metro ring network is utilized to set transmission wavelengths and timing for both downstream and upstream signal transmission for multiple access PONs.
US07706687B1 Automatic provisioning of network services based on user application requirements
A system, device, and method for managing connection quality in an optical communication system ascertains high-level communication requirements and non-requirements of the network user, determines a set of lower level communication services for the network user based upon the high-level communication requirements and non-requirements of the network user, and obtains the lower-level communication services for the network user.
US07706685B2 Data communication network using optical power averaged multiplexing
An optical network system, including multiple nodes, an optical switch, and a switch controller, is configured to achieve communication in the optical domain. Each node is configured to receive both high frequency and low frequency inputs, generally utilized for handling data and addressing information, respectively. The two types of information are combined to create an amplitude modulated optical signal. Subsequently, the two types of information are separated by examining the optical power average of the signal being transmitted. Using one portion of the signal for addressing information, the switch controller can perform necessary routing and arbitration functions. Appropriate communications can then be sent back to the nodes and the optical switch to achieve the necessary configuration. The protocol utilized allows for subsequent arbitration and data transmission cycles, allowing the system and switch controller to configure transmission paths and arbitrate any communication issues. All optical data transmission is then commenced.
US07706678B2 Electronic imaging apparatus having optical/electronic finder mechanisms switchable in accordance with imaging condition
An electronic imaging apparatus having a section for generating imaging data which indicates an imaging condition; an optical finder mechanism for introducing light from a subject to a finder; a data display device for displaying at least one of the subject's image and the imaging condition in the finder; and a switching device for switching between light incident/non-incident states for the optical finder mechanism. When imaging is not performed, the switching device makes the light incident on the optical finder mechanism. When imaging is performed and the image signal is not recorded, the switching device makes the light incident on the optical finder mechanism, and the subject's image and the image formed by the data display device are superimposed and displayed in the finder. When imaging is performed and the image signal is recorded, at least the image formed by the data display device is displayed by the switching device.
US07706677B2 Mobile communication terminal device
A mobile communication terminal device, capable of implementing large screen and displaying stereoscopic images, includes: a first case and a second case; a first and a second display part mounted on the first case and the second case, respectively; lens modules mounted in front of the first and second display parts for producing virtual images for images of the first and second display parts; and a rotation member for rotating the first case and the second case on the same rotation axis. The mobile communication terminal device further includes: a first case and a second case; a rotation member for rotating the first case and the second case on the same rotation axis; and a viewfinder unit mounted on one side of at least one of the first case and the second case.
US07706675B2 Camera
A camera is provided with a face detecting section, a focusing section, an area specifying section, and a controlling section. The face detecting section detects a face area within a shooting image plane. The focusing section has plural optional areas within the shooting image plane. Further, the focusing section obtains an image phase difference amount of a pair of images based on luminous flux having passed through a shooting lens in each of the optional areas. The area specifying section specifies a focusing area from among the optional areas corresponding to the face area. Further, the area specifying section changes a method of specifying the focusing area in accordance with the size of the face area. The controlling section performs a focusing operation of the shooting lens on the basis of the image phase difference amount in the focusing area.
US07706670B2 Fluid-heating apparatus, circuit for heating a fluid, and method of operating the same
A fluid-heating apparatus for heating a fluid and method of operating the same. The fluid-heating apparatus includes a heating element for heating a fluid surrounding the heating element and a control circuit connected to the heating element and connectable to a power source. The control circuit is configured to determine whether a potential dry-fire condition exists for the heating element. In one implementation, the method includes applying a first electric signal to the heating element, detecting a first value of an electrical characteristic during the application of the first electric signal, applying a second electric signal to the heating element, applying a third electric signal to the heating element, detecting a second value of the electrical characteristic during the application of the third electric signal; and determining whether a potential dry-fire condition exists based on the first and second values.
US07706667B2 Recording apparatus and method, reproducing apparatus and method, recording medium, and program
The present invention relates to a recording apparatus and method, a reproducing apparatus and method, a recording medium, and a program for reproducing a video stream in a simpler method. A VOBU of an AV stream recorded on a recording medium includes, from the beginning thereof, navigation information, and then provider definition information followed by V_PCK, A_PCK, and S_PCK. The provider definition information contains closed GOP flag information, broken link flag, and I picture reproduction order information, the number of real frames, the number of reproduction frames, and progressive frame flag, related to the video data contained in the VOBU. A reproducing apparatus performs a reproduction process based on the provider definition information. The present invention is applicable to a reproducing apparatus of DVD.
US07706665B2 Recording medium containing thumbnail recorded thereon, recording apparatus and method therefor, and reproducing apparatus and method therefor
A recording medium includes a program containing video data and/or audio data and navigation information which defines a thumbnail, wherein the thumbnail relates to the program and is reproduceable as moving pictures. The recording medium may include a plurality of programs and the thumbnail may identify or represent one or more of the programs. By assigning a predetermined interval of a bit stream corresponding to a program as a thumbnail, the recording medium having the thumbnail thereon, that can be reproduced as moving pictures, can be obtained.
US07706657B1 Fiber optic parking dust cover
A cover is described that includes an opening for the cover to receive a latch of a pluggable device to secure the pluggable device in the cover. The cover includes a retaining latch for the cover to hold the cover within an opening of a device. The cover, when inserted into the opening of the device, provides dust protection for the opening of the device and a parking location for the pluggable device. A method is also described for parking a fiber optic connector in a cover and latching the cover into a cage of a communications device.
US07706654B2 Integrated device for heat assisted magnetic recording
An apparatus includes a first waveguide configured to focus an electromagnetic wave to a focal region, and a second waveguide to further condense the light to an optical spot. The second waveguide includes a metallic structure defining an opening having one end positioned adjacent to the focal region and a multilayer structure positioned in the opening, the multilayer structure including a first layer of dielectric material, and second and third layers of dielectric material positioned on opposite sides of the first layer. A layer of lower index of refraction than that of the first dielectric layer may be positioned adjacent to the inner walls of the opening in the second waveguide to efficiently excite surface plasmons, and propagate them with low loss.
US07706651B2 Air blown optical fiber unit having bead attached on the surface
Disclosed is an air blown optical fiber unit having beads attached on its surface. The air blown optical fiber unit includes at least one optical fiber, a buffer layer surrounding the optical fiber and made of polymer resin, an outer layer surrounding the buffer layer and made of polymer resin, and beads attached on a surface of the outer layer to have height of 40 μm to 120 μm on the average. This air blown optical fiber unit gives improved installation characteristics.
US07706648B2 Tunable optical dispersion compensating apparatus
A tunable optical dispersion compensator (TODC) having a silica arrayed-waveguide grating (AWG) directly coupled at its input to a Mach-Zehnder interferometer device and at its output to a polymer thermo-optic lens.
US07706647B2 Resistive heater for thermo optic device
Resistive heaters formed in two mask counts on a surface of a grating of a thermo optic device thereby eliminating one mask count from prior art manufacturing methods. The resistive heater is comprised of a heater region and a conductive path region formed together in a first mask count from a relatively high resistance material. A conductor formed from a relatively low resistance material is formed directly on the conductive path region in a second mask count. Thermo optic devices formed by these two mask count methods are also described.
US07706645B2 Optical communication system adapted for receiving an optical signal at a plurality of different positions
An optical communication system (200) for transmitting light between a first housing (102) and a second housing (104) of a device (100) is provided. The first housing and the second housing are adapted to move relative to one another between a plurality of usage positions. The optical communication system includes a first optical communication element (202), a second optical communication element (204), and an optical waveguide (206). The first optical communication element is capable of emitting light and can be coupled to one of the first and second housing. The second optical communication element is capable of receiving the light and can be coupled to the housing to which the first optical communication element is not coupled. The optical waveguide is capable of conveying the light emitted by the first to the second optical communication element. The second optical communication element can substantially encompass a locus of the output light.
US07706637B2 Host configured for interoperation with coupled portable media player device
Methods and system for transferring images between devices is disclosed. For example, differently scaled images by a host device may automatically and/or selectively be transferred to a media player for display. In turn, appropriately scaled images may be transferred automatically and/or selectively to another display device for example a TV, camera or printer. The selectivity may occur either at the host level or at the player level.
US07706634B2 Method and camera (apparatus) for optically capturing a screen
A camera for optically capturing a screen, wherein the screen has an area and wherein a predetermined overall resolution is provided for the optical capture, comprises a camera support with an array of camera mounts, an array of optical individual cameras as well as an image processing device for processing digital individual images of the array of optical individual cameras to generate the optical capture of the screen with the predetermined overall resolution. The image processing device is effective to reduce a correction of the individual images with regard to alignment inaccuracies and/or parameter variations, wherein for correction purposes a correction resolution is used, which is higher than the overall resolution, and wherein for every individual camera an individual correction rule is used for the correction. After the correction has been performed, the corrected overall image is brought to the predetermined overall resolution by combining adjacent pixels. Thereby, with inexpensive individual cameras, an image of a large-format screen is obtained efficiently, inexpensively and with little artifacts.
US07706629B2 Methods and apparatuses for pixel transformations
Methods, apparatuses, systems, and machine readable media for pixel transformations. One exemplary method includes: determining a state of a pixel format transformation, wherein a pixel format includes a predetermined number of pixel data components and a predetermined number of bits for each of the pixel data components and wherein the state includes a source pixel format and a destination pixel format and at least one intermediate pixel format; converting pixel data in the source pixel format to pixel data in the intermediate pixel format; and converting the pixel data in the intermediate pixel format to pixel data in the destination pixel format. In certain embodiments, a method includes building and compiling a function, at run-time, for the pixel format transformation based upon the state.
US07706625B2 Trilateral filter for medical diagnostic imaging
A sequence of medical images is filtered. The filtering adapts as a function of spatial closeness, similarity of display values, and temporal vicinity. The kernel weights are based on combined spatial and temporal considerations as well as similarity for trilateral filtering. The similarity is a function of time. The similarity may be between display values separated by time or space and time.
US07706619B2 Image processing device that produces high-quality reduced image at fast processing speed
A reduction-ratio acquiring section acquires a reduction ratio for reducing a source image into an output image. A division-number determining section determines a division number nDev for dividing each pixel constituting the source image into (nDev×nDev) division blocks, where nDev is an integer that is greater than or equal to two. A process-block-number calculating section calculates, based on the reduction ratio, a number of division blocks corresponding to a single pixel in the output image. An average-pixel-value calculating section calculates, for the single pixel, an average pixel value based on pixel values of the division blocks. The pixel values of the division blocks are pixels values of corresponding pixels in the source image. A repeating section allows the process-block-number calculating section and the average-pixel-value calculating section to repeat same processes for each pixel in the output image, thereby obtaining an entire output image.
US07706616B2 System and method for recognizing word patterns in a very large vocabulary based on a virtual keyboard layout
A word pattern recognition system based on a virtual keyboard layout combines handwriting recognition with a virtual, graphical, or on-screen keyboard to provide a text input method with relative ease of use. The system allows the user to input text quickly with little or no visual attention from the user. The system supports a very large vocabulary of gesture templates in a lexicon, including practically all words needed for a particular user. In addition, the system utilizes various techniques and methods to achieve reliable recognition of a very large gesture vocabulary. Further, the system provides feedback and display methods to help the user effectively use and learn shorthand gestures for words. Word patterns are recognized independent of gesture scale and location. The present system uses language rules to recognize and connect suffixes with a preceding word, allowing users to break complex words into easily remembered segments.
US07706615B2 Information processing method and information processing device
In an information processing method for recognizing a handwritten figure or character, with use of a speech input in combination, in order to increase the recognition accuracy a given target is subjected to figure recognition and a first candidate figure list is obtained. Input speech information is phonetically recognized and a second candidate figure list is obtained. On the basis of the figure candidates obtained by the figure recognition and the figure candidates obtained by the speech recognition, a most likely figure is selected.
US07706613B2 System and method for identifying text-based SPAM in rasterized images
A system, method and computer program product for identifying spam in an image, including (a) identifying a plurality of contours in the image, the contours corresponding to probable symbols; (b) ignoring contours that are too small or too large; (c) identifying text lines in the image, based on the remaining contours; (d) parsing the text lines into words; (e) ignoring words that are too short or too long from the identified text lines; (f) ignoring text lines that are too short; (g) verifying that the image contains text by comparing a number of pixels of a symbol color within remaining contours to a total number of pixels of the symbol color in the image, and that there is at least one text line after filtration; and (h) if the image contains text, rendering a spam/no spam verdict based on a contour representation of the text that which appears after step (f).
US07706598B2 Method and apparatus for visual inspection
A visual inspection apparatus includes an image-data acquisition unit for acquiring plural pieces of image data A to C on an inspection target, image comparison units for comparing the image data A to C with each other thereby to create plural pieces of sign-affixed difference-image data D and E, the image data A to C being acquired by the image-data acquisition unit, difference-image comparison units for determining the difference between the sign-affixed difference-image data D and E created by the image comparison units, and a judgment unit for subjecting, to a threshold-value processing, difference data F between the difference-image data D and E, the difference data F being acquired by the difference-image comparison units, obtaining a detection sensitivity by enlarging the difference between an abnormal signal level of an image of an area where an abnormality exists from the visual inspection.
US07706597B2 Defect inspection apparatus and defect inspection method
A defect inspection apparatus which includes a pattern image obtaining unit obtaining a pattern image of a predetermined part by causing focusing control to be performed in order to achieve focus on the predetermined part within an observation object according to set focusing control parameters, a pattern image storing unit storing the pattern image, and a detecting unit detecting the presence/absence of an abnormal condition of a part to be inspected by making a comparison between the pattern image of a reference part within the observation object, and the pattern image of the part to be inspected within the observation object. The focusing control parameters, set when the pattern image of the part to be inspected is obtained, are determined based on sample information obtained when the pattern image of the reference part is obtained.
US07706586B2 Real-time structure suppression in ultrasonically scanned volumes
Certain embodiments of the present invention include methods, systems, and computer readable media for real-time structure suppression in ultrasonically scanned volumes. A method includes receiving a plurality of datasets, each of said plurality of datasets representative of an ultrasonically scanned volume. The method further includes automatically applying in real-time a suppression filter to said plurality of datasets to form a plurality of filtered datasets, wherein at least two of said plurality of filtered datasets are sequenceable to form a data stream.
US07706579B2 Image orientation for display
A device may include processing logic to obtain an image file including orientation information indicating a first orientation in which an image is to be displayed; detect, in the image, at least one human face; and modify the orientation information to re-orient the image based on the detected at least one human face.
US07706577B1 Exporting extracted faces
Exporting information is disclosed. An object resulting from automatic detection performed on an image is received. An indication to export information is received. Data associated with the object is exported.
US07706573B1 Remote distance-measurement between any two arbitrary points using laser assisted optics
The disclosed method measures the distance between two arbitrary points of interest from the user position by determining the range and angle between the two points. To measure the angle between the two points, a first method uses a micro-opto-electro-mechanical scanner to form a scan line between the two points of interest. A scan angle is determined based on the applied AC voltage needed to cause the endpoints of the scan line to coincide with the points of interest. The second method, an image-processing method, is applied to determine the angles between the points of interest. A Microprocessor uses captured images including the points of interest to determine the angle between the points. In both methods, the Microprocessor calculates the distance between the two points of interest by using the determined angle, together with the measured ranges and sends the calculated distance to a display.
US07706571B2 Flexible layer tracking with weak online appearance model
Method for tracking an object recorded within a selected frame of a sequence of frames of video data, using a plurality of layers, where at least one object layer of the plurality of layers represents the object includes initializing layer ownership probabilities for pixels of the selected frame using a non-parametric motion model, estimating a set of motion parameters of the plurality of layers for the selected frame using a parametric maximization algorithm and tracking the object. The non-parametric motion model is optical flow and includes warping the mixing probabilities, the appearances of the plurality of layers, and the observed pixel data from the pixels of the preceding frame to the pixels of the selected frame to initialize the layer ownership probabilities for the pixels of the selected frame.
US07706563B2 Concentric radial ring motor
A voice-coil transducer includes two radially concentric magnets, a voice-coil located in the gap between the inner and outer magnets, and a diaphragm coupled to the voice-coil. An audio loudspeaker includes the voice-coil transducer with two radially concentric magnets, a voice-coil located within the gap between the inner and outer magnets, a diaphragm coupled to the voice-coil in order to create sounds from the voice-coil, and a chassis to support the magnets, voice-coil, and diaphragm.
US07706557B2 Chambers for a hearing instrument shell
A portion of a hearing instrument housing or shell comprises one or more chambers having planar, conical, or convex walls. During assembly, this shape helps guide the receiver tube towards tip of the shell and the receiver tube hole. Additionally, it will reinforce the walls of the shell, decreasing the tendency of the shell to vibrate when the receiver is generating sound.
US07706553B2 Auto-mute command stream by voice-activated remote control
A voice-activated, or voice-operated, remote control is adapted to reduce or eliminate the sound output of one or more entertainment appliances in order quiet the environment and thereby improve the effectiveness and accuracy its voice recognition functions. In one aspect of the present invention, the remote control sends a mute command to an appliance under control and listens for a voice command during an ensuing predetermined time period. In a further aspect of the present invention, the remote control determines which one of a plurality of unmute sequences is to be transmitted.
US07706537B2 Method for relocating SRNS in a mobile communication system
A system and method for performing SRNS relocation in a communications system transmits radio resource information including a ciphering parameter from a source RNC to a target RNC, modifies the ciphering parameter to coincide with a deciphering parameter which a user terminal uses when out-of-sequence data is received, ciphers a data unit based on the modified ciphering parameter, and transmits the ciphered data unit from the target RNC to the user terminal. The method may be modified to operate in UM mode or AM mode and to transmit data over one of several radio bearers. In accordance with another embodiment, the system and method transmits radio resource information from a source RNC to a target RNC and then transmits a data unit from the target RNC to a user terminal. In this case, the data unit including a transmission sequence number which consecutively follows a transmission sequence number of a data unit last transmitted from the source RNC to the user terminal. In accordance with another embodiment, the system and method resets ciphering and state variables in a target RNC and then transmits a message instructing a user terminal to reset a deciphering and state variables to the same or similar values. All the embodiments are advantageous because they ensure successful communications will take place between the target RNC and user terminal after a serving radio network sub-system relocation procedure is performed.
US07706536B2 Phase locking in a multi-channel quantum communication system
A communication system adapted to use wavelength (frequency) division multiplexing for quantum-key distribution (QKD) and having a transmitter coupled to a receiver via a transmission link. In one embodiment, the receiver is adapted to (i) phase-shift a local oscillator (LO) signal generated at the receiver, (ii) combine the LO signal with a quantum-information (QI) signal received via the transmission link from the transmitter to produce interference signals, (iii) measure an intensity difference for these interference signals, and (iv) phase-lock the LO signal to the QI signal based on the measurement result. In one configuration, the QI signal has a plurality of pilot frequency components, each carrying a training signal, and a plurality of QKD frequency components, each carrying quantum key data. Advantageously, the system can maintain a phase lock for the QKD frequency components of the QI and LO signals, while the QKD frequency components of the QI signal continuously carry quantum key data.
US07706535B1 Systems and methods for implementing routing protocols and algorithms for quantum cryptographic key transport
A quantum cryptographic key distribution (QKD) relay (205) includes one or more interfaces (530-1 through 530-N) and processing logic (505). The one or more interfaces (530-1 through 530-N) receive secret keys from other QKD relays in a QKD network. The processing logic (505) determines one or more paths for transporting the secret keys, using quantum cryptographic techniques, across a QKD network and route the secret keys towards a respective destination across the QKD network using the determined one or more paths.
US07706523B2 Method and apparatus for skills-based task routing
An efficient algorithm is presented for selecting an agent to service a task in a skills-based routing system. A set X is determined of all states of the boolean variables that contain the required skills for a task. A resume table of available agents is built, organized by the states of the N variables; each agent is represented in each state that includes all skills possessed by the agent. All available and qualified agents are determined from the resume table; those agents associated with a state of the resume table outside of the set X are disqualified. An agent is selected from those remaining. Preferably, an agent is selected having a minimum qualification level to service the task. One preferred way of doing this is to subtract from the number of terms in a canonical form of the required skills expression a number equal to the number of times the agent appears in the set of states X and picking an agent with the lowest result. In the preferred embodiment, however, proficiency levels of each required skill are taken into account in making the final selection.
US07706518B2 Network infrastructure for ringbacks
An apparatus and methods are disclosed that enable a caller to specify one or both of (i) the content of a ringback signal that is generated when placing a call, and (ii) one or more properties of the ringback signal. In the first illustrative embodiment of the present invention, a “far” data-processing system that is closer to the called terminal than to the calling terminal (e.g., a terminating switch, an edge switch that is close to the terminating switch, etc.) generates a ringback signal based on preferences or rules of the caller that are stored in a database. In the second illustrative embodiment of the present invention, a “near” data-processing system that is closer to the calling terminal than to the called terminal (e.g., an originating switch, an edge switch that is close to the originating switch, etc.) generates a ringback signal based on caller rules and preferences.
US07706513B2 Distributed text-to-speech synthesis between a telephone network and a telephone subscriber unit
A telecommunications system distributes text-to-speech synthesis between a telephone network and a telephone subscriber unit. The telephone network receives a telephone call from a first telephone subscriber unit over a first communication channel intended for a second telephone subscriber unit, determines that the second telephone subscriber unit subscribes to a speech-based caller identification service provided by the telephone network, converts text information, representing the caller identification of the first telephone subscriber unit into symbols, encodes the symbols to form a data stream, opens a second communication channel between the telephone network and the second telephone subscriber unit, and sends the data stream to the second telephone subscriber unit over the second communication channel.
US07706505B2 Wireless X-ray fluoroscopic imaging system, inter-unit synchronization method of the same, and computer program
A wireless X-ray fluoroscopic imaging system is provided. The system includes an X-ray generation unit configured to perform X-ray exposure for each frame of imaging; a sensor unit configured to output image data; and an image processing unit configured to designate the exposure, wherein the sensor unit includes a first counter configured to be reset and resume counting in response to a beacon signal, and a unit configured to save a readout trigger offset for readout, and starts the readout when a counter value of the first counter matches the readout trigger offset, and the image processing unit includes a second counter configured to be reset and resume counting in response to the beacon signal, and a unit configured to save an exposure trigger offset for the exposure, and starts the exposure when a counter value of the second counter matches the exposure trigger offset.
US07706504B2 X-ray diagnostic apparatus
An X-ray diagnostic apparatus includes an X-ray generating unit which generates X rays, an X-ray detecting unit which detects X rays transmitted through a subject, an X-ray exposure operating unit which is operated by an operator, and a system control unit which controls the X-ray generating unit in order to start the generation of the X rays from the X-ray generating unit at a time point when a heart rate phase of the subject reaches a specified phase after the X-ray exposure operating unit is operated.
US07706491B2 Mobile communication terminal
The packet reception section of the cellular phone receives a packet transmitted from the base station and the transmission error detection section detects a transmission error of the received packet. When the transmission error is detected, the retransmission request transmission section transmits a retransmission request to request the retransmission of the packet in which the transmission error is detected, to the base station, and the sample timing control section shifts the sample timing of the A/D converter by a half clock.
US07706483B2 Carrier phase ambiguity correction
A receiver comprises a demodulator for providing a demodulated signal and a centroid calculator responsive to the demodulated signal for identifying a correct carrier phase for use in the centroid calculation and in removing carrier phase ambiguity in the demodulator. In addition, the centroid calculator may include a limiter.
US07706478B2 Method and apparatus of source separation
An embodiment generally relates to a method of signal discrimination. The method includes receiving plurality of signal mixtures, where each signal has a property whose value is based on a principal eigenvalue of a unique separating operator. The method also includes creating a separating operator using a target signal approximation and applying a separating operator for a target signal to the plurality of signal mixtures. The method further includes obtaining the target signal based on an operation of optimization of the separating operator for maximum property value amplitude on the plurality of signal mixtures.
US07706477B2 Advanced multi-sensor processing
Each receiving node (120) of a plurality of receiving nodes (120-1, 120-2 and 120-3) such as base stations in a wireless network converts a superposition of signals received from a plurality of transmitting nodes such as mobile terminals (10) to produce soft complex signal information. The soft complex signal information associated with the considered plurality of receiving nodes are collected, for example in a central node (130) and jointly detect signal information transmitted from at least a subset of the plurality of transmitting nodes (10) based on the collected soft complex signal information. The collected soft signal information generally retains phase and amplitude information, and the transmitted signals are preferably detected in a joint detection process based on a complex channel representation and collected soft signal information. In a truly distributed realization, adjacent receiving nodes or base stations exchange soft complex signal information with each other, thus forming at least partially overlapping groups for distributed collection of information, detection and subsequent decoding in each base station.
US07706475B1 Compensation of I/Q mismatch in a communication system using I/Q modulation
A communications system is provided that includes a detector that has I/Q mismatch, a calibration circuit that estimating a phase and/or an amplitude mismatch of the detector, and a compensation circuit that uses the estimated phase and/or amplitude mismatch to mitigate the effects of the amplitude and/or phase mismatch. An IQ-modulated signal produced by the I/Q-modulator can be communicated over a loop back connection to the detector of the communication system. The calibration circuit can estimate the I/Q mismatch for the IQ-modulator and can provide the estimated values to a pre-compensation circuit. In one aspect, I/Q mismatch in the IQ-modulator of a communication system can be determined using a spectrum analyzer. Power measurements can be used to compute the amplitude mismatch and the phase mismatch of an IQ-modulator.
US07706474B2 Carrier tracking for AM in-band on-channel radio receivers
A method for carrier tracking in AM in-band on-channel radio receivers comprises the steps of receiving an input signal, generating a local oscillator signal in response to an oscillator control signal, mixing the input signal with a local oscillator signal to produce a first signal, filtering the first signal to produce a filtered first signal at a decimated sample rate, detecting the phase error and frequency error of the filtered first signal normalized to mitigate effects of signal fades, and using an adaptive loop filter to produce the oscillator control signal in response to the phase error and frequency error of the filtered first signal. An apparatus that performs the method is also provided.
US07706470B2 Acquisition method for global positioning system
A Global Positioning System (GPS) acquisition method is provided. A GPS signal is first received, comprising a plurality of data bits, each repeating for a bit period. A search space is then formed, comprising a plurality of elements each associated with a presumed offset and a presumed code phase. Before bit-transition of each bit period, element values of the elements are accumulated by substituting the data bits into a coherent-combination algorithm. After bit-transition of each bit period, the element values are accumulated by substituting the data bits into a differential-coherent combination algorithm.
US07706466B2 Lower complexity layered modulation signal processor
A method and apparatus for transmitting and receiving a coded signal having an upper layer signal and a lower layer signal is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of combining the upper layer signal and the lower layer signal, encoding the combined upper layer signal and lower layer signal, delaying the upper layer signal, modulating the delayed upper layer signal, modulating the lower layer signal, transmitting the delayed upper layer signal and transmitting the lower layer signal. The apparatus comprises an encoder, for encoding a combined upper layer signal and lower layer signal, a delay, communicatively coupled to the encoder, for delaying the upper layer signal, a first modulator, for modulating the delayed upper layer signal, a second modulator, for modulating the lower layer signal, a transmitter, communicatively coupled to the first modulator, for transmitting the delayed upper layer signal, and a second transmitter, communicatively coupled to the second modulator.
US07706460B2 QAM signal decoding
A demodulator recovers a transmitted symbol represented by a received quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) signal. Such a demodulator may include: a QAM-decoding block operable to map a received signal vector onto a constellation so as to yield a first symbol, and identify a next-most probable second symbol based upon the signal vector; and a selection unit operable to select, among the first and second symbols, the one having the lower error content as corresponding to the transmitted symbol. A corresponding method may include similar steps.
US07706443B2 Method, article of manufacture, and apparatus for high quality, fast intra coding usable for creating digital video content
A method for high quality, fast intra coding usable for creating digital video content. The video image is defined by data points representing original colors. Data points are selected based on a color characteristic, and are arranged into groups. At an initial stage (and at subsequent stages): selecting a subset of data points, using a number of algorithms to generate predicted values of the colors represented by the data points, calculating error values and evaluating mathematical functions to produce cost values, identifying a minimum cost value, establishing a threshold based on the minimum cost and a selection factor, comparing each cost value to the threshold value, and identifying a number of probable best algorithms. One of the probable best algorithms is usable for block size selection and to generate final predicted values of the original color represented by the data points.
US07706438B1 Circuits and methods for reducing noise and distortion in pulse width modulation systems
A pulse width modulation system including a pulse width modulation stage for generating a pulse width modulated signal in response to an input signal and an other pulse width modulation stage for generating an other pulse width modulated signal in response to an other input signal. Additional circuitry ensures that transitions of the pulse width modulated signal and the other pulse width modulated signal are spaced in time by a selected amount for small levels of the input signal.
US07706424B2 Gas discharge laser system electrodes and power supply for delivering electrical energy to same
A apparatus and method are disclosed which may comprise a fluorine gas discharge laser system and electrode support system which may comprise a first electrode electrically connected to a source of high voltage; a first insulating mechanism insulating the first electrode from ground; a second electrode electrically insulated from the source of high voltage and together with the first electrode forming an elongated discharge region between portions of the first and second electrodes respectively extending along a longitudinal axis of each of the first and second electrodes, defining electrode discharge receiving region end portions; a plurality of current return tines electrically connected to the second electrode and to ground, the tines distributed along the longitudinal extent of the elongated discharge region; a second insulating mechanism electrically isolating the second electrode from ground except through the plurality of current return tines.
US07706423B2 Dual-wavelength semiconductor laser device and method for fabricating the same
In a dual-wavelength semiconductor laser in which a first semiconductor laser element and a second semiconductor laser element are integrated onto a substrate made of a compound semiconductor, a constituent material of an etching stopper of the first semiconductor laser element is a material which allows diffusion of impurities less easily than a constituent material of an etching stopper of the second semiconductor laser element.
US07706410B2 Apparatus and method for constructing a data unit that includes a buffer status report
An apparatus and method for constructing a data unit that includes a buffer status report (BSR) such that when BSR triggering is performed, the size(s) of the necessary sub-header(s) are also to be considered together in addition to the BSR size. There is a checking unit that checks whether any padding region is available in a MAC PDU that was constructed, a comparing unit that compares the number of padding bits with the size of a buffer status report (BSR) plus its sub-header, and a processing unit that cooperates with the checking unit and the comparing unit to trigger a buffer status report (BSR) procedure if the number of padding bits is larger than the size of the BSR plus its sub-header, including the BSR and its sub-header in the MAC PDU, and setting an LCID in the sub-header to indicate a BSR is included, the BSR having been triggered due to padding. Using such apparatus allows the sub-header(s) to be inserted (included) into the MAC PDU (or transport block (TB) or other data unit).
US07706398B2 Dynamic priority based message transmitting apparatus, priority adjusting apparatus using the same, and dynamic priority message processing method
A dynamic priority based message transmitting apparatus includes a priority storing block for recording priorities in a communication network environment having multitude nodes and recording the lowest priority among the priorities, a communication bus monitoring block for monitoring a communication bus and transmitting its message when the communication bus is available, a message collision solving block for solving message collision by monitoring message transmission when messages are transmitted from the other nodes simultaneously, comparing its priority and those of the other nodes and, as the comparison result, transmitting its message if its priority is higher than those of the other nodes while not transmitting its message if otherwise, a message filtering block for executing filtering by judging whether or not its node has to process a certain message based on an identifier of the certain message, and a priority adjusting block for adjusting its priority according to a predefined rule.
US07706393B2 Packet switching
A method of allocating switch requests within a packet switch, the method comprising the steps of collecting switch request data at each input port; processing the switch request data for each input port to generate request data for each input port-output port pairing: comparing the number of requests from each input port and to each output port with the maximum request capacity of each input port and each output port; satisfying all requests for those input-output pairs where the total number of requests is less than or equal to the maximum request capacity of each input port and each output port; reducing the number of requests for those input-output pairs where the total number of requests is greater than the maximum request capacity of each input port and each output port such that the number of requests is less than or equal to the maximum request capacity of each input port and each output port; and satisfying the remaining requests. Packets may be switched from an input port to a specified output port in accordance with the allocations obtained with the above method.
US07706385B2 Bandwidth management system and method for guaranteeing quality of service in voice over internet protocol network
In a bandwidth management system and method for guaranteeing quality of service (QoS) in a Voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) network, bandwidth use information used to establish or terminate a call is provided, a bandwidth is reset when the bandwidth use information is provided, and available bandwidth information which is changed according to the reset bandwidth is reported.
US07706381B2 Approaches for switching transport protocol connection keys
Approaches are disclosed for switching transport protocol connection keys. A first node sends a keychange request message to a second node, causing the second node to accept subsequent messages digitally signed with a first or second key. The second node sends an acknowledgment message to the first node, causing the first node to accept subsequent messages digitally signed with the first or second key. The first node receives a new message digitally signed with the second key from the second node and determines that there are no remaining messages to be received digitally signed with the first key. In response thereto, the first node only accepts messages digitally signed with the second key and sends a message signed with the second key to the second node, causing the second node to only accept messages digitally signed with the second key.
US07706376B2 System and method for communicating with mobile stations over an extended range in a wireless local area network
Embodiments of a system and method for communicating over an extended range in a wireless network are generally described herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed. In some embodiments, a packet is generated to include an extended range header if the mobile station is identified as an extended range mobile station. The extended range header and a data portion of the packet have a lower data rate than packets for regular range mobile stations and are encoded to correspond to rates for un-encoded transmissions to the regular range mobile stations.
US07706375B2 System and method of fast adaptive TCAM sorting for IP longest prefix matching
A system and method are provided for sorting IP routing table entries in a TCAM for longest IP prefix matching LPM of destination IP addresses. The IP routing table is divided into logical blocks, for each block an associated routing entry IP prefix length. Each block is of a respective size whose proportion of the total size of the routing table is determined by the associated IP prefix length. The blocks are ordered so that the TCAM returns an LPM when queried. Starting block sizes can be initialized to proportions which reflect actual expected numbers by proportion of routing entries by IP prefix length. The blocks also grow and shrink as entries are added and deleted so as to more closely mirror real-world populations of expected entries having the IP prefix length in question.
US07706369B2 Location discovery in a data network
A method for location discovery in a data network includes receiving, at a first device, connection information from a neighboring network device and determining a physical location of the first device based on the connection information. The method can include receiving, at the first device, the physical location transmitted from the neighboring network device. The method can further include associating a level of trust with the physical location based on the neighboring network device. The first device be one of a variety of devices, such as a router, a switch, a network entry device, a firewall device, or a gateway.
US07706367B2 Integrated tunneling and network address translation: performance improvement for an interception proxy server
A method for processing data packets in an interception proxy server without using a Network Address Translation module. A TCP packet received at a router is encapsulated using generic routing encapsulation (GRE). The TCP packet is redirected to a proxy server through a GRE tunnel which includes a redirection rule comprising a local destination IP address and port to be used for traffic passed through the tunnel. When the proxy server receives the TCP packet, the TCP packet is decapsulated. If a flag is set in the payload header of the TCP packet indicating that a redirection rule has been configured for traffic passed through the tunnel, the payload header of the TCP packet is modified according to the redirection rule. The modified TCP packet is then passed to a transmission control protocol of the proxy server.
US07706364B2 Virtual network device clusters
A virtual network device cluster includes several different virtual network device sub-units, which collectively operate as a single logical network device. The virtual network device cluster identifies the virtual network device sub-unit via which a given packet enters the virtual network device cluster. A packet is forwarded through the virtual network device cluster based on which virtual network device sub-unit has been identified for that packet. In one embodiment, a method involves receiving a packet via a first interface of a first one of several virtual network device sub-units of a virtual network device and associating the packet with the first one of the virtual network device sub-units. The method also involves inhibiting the packet from being sent via an interface of one of the virtual network device sub-units, in response to the packet being associated with the first one of the virtual network device sub-units.
US07706360B2 Disk device for loading and unloading disks of different sizes
An optical disk drive of a slot-in type is loadable with any of two optical disks different in the diameter, and has an insertion slot formed in a case chassis for disk loading. A disk entered through the insertion slot is received by a disk support arm set in a ready position. A loading mechanism is actuated when the disk support arm is pressed by the disk. In response to this, plural arms and the disk support arm cooperate to support the disk, which is moved to a chuck position for writing and reading information. For disk unloading, the disk, supported by the plural arms, is moved by the disk support arm to an ejection position. The disk support arm is shifted from an advance position for pressing the disk to the ejection position, to the ready position which is offset toward the chuck position.
US07706351B2 Apparatus and method for transmitting an uplink signal in a mobile communication system using an OFDMA scheme
Disclosed is a method for transmitting an uplink signal by a mobile station in a mobile communication system using an OFDMA scheme. The method includes estimating a downlink channel status by using a signal received from a base station; determining a precoding matrix by using the estimated downlink channel status; and transmitting a signal obtained by multiplying an uplink signal to be transmitted by the precoding matrix to the base station.
US07706348B2 Apparatus and method for encoding/decoding transport format combination indicator in CDMA mobile communication system
An apparatus and method for encoding/decoding a transport format combination indicator (TFCI) in a CDMA mobile communication system. In the TFCI encoding apparatus, a one-bit generator generates a sequence having the same symbols. A basis orthogonal sequence generator generates a plurality of basis orthogonal sequences. A basis mask sequence generator generates a plurality of basis mask sequences. An operation unit receives TFCI bits that are divided into a first information part representing biorthogonal sequence conversion, a second information part representing orthogonal sequence conversion, and a third information part representing mask sequence conversion and combines an orthogonal sequence selected from the basis orthogonal sequence based on the second information, a biorthogonal sequence obtained by combining the selected orthogonal sequence with the same symbols selected based on the first information part, and a mask sequence selected based on the biorthogonal sequence and the third information part, thereby generating a TFCI sequence.
US07706340B2 Reliable neighbor node discovery
Methods and systems for reliable neighbor discovery in wireless ad hoc networks are provided herein. In one aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide methods and systems for analyzing the quality of a communication link. In embodiments, several factors affecting link quality may be incorporated in the analysis, and basic and/or complex statistical and/or probabilistic analysis may be used. In another aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide methods and systems for neighbor node discovery that adapt to network and/or node operating conditions and that dynamically maintain a neighbor node set at a given node according to these conditions. In a further aspect, embodiments of the present invention extend the utility of neighbor node discovery beyond the customary role of data routing support into the problem of deploying an ad hoc network by providing a display module for displaying node connectivity information.
US07706338B2 Method and system for a bandwidth efficient medium access control (MAC) protocol
A method and system for a bandwidth efficient medium access control (MAC) protocol is provided, which may comprise communicating a request to transmit (RTS) signal to a receiving station to determine if a channel is available for transmission. A clear to send (CTS) acknowledgement signal may be received from the receiving station if the channel is available for transmission. A plurality of medium access control (MAC) protocol data unit (MPDU) fragments separated by a point coordination function (PCF) interframe space (PIFS) interval may be transmitted in response to the received CTS acknowledgement signal.
US07706330B2 Method and system for link adaptation in a wireless multi-carrier communication system
A method and system for link adaptation between a wireless multi-carrier access point (102) and a wireless multi-carrier communication device (104) is described. The wireless multi-carrier access point obtains a set of available LEP methods from the wireless multi-carrier communication device. The wireless multi-carrier access point selects an LEP method from the set of available LEP methods, based on at least one link parameter. The wireless multi-carrier access point then communicates the LEP method selected, to the wireless multi-carrier communication device. The selected LEP method is used during the transmission of information between the wireless multi-carrier access point and the wireless multi-carrier communication device.
US07706325B2 Method and system for handling context of data packet flows
The present invention relates to the handling of context of data packet flows. As mentioned, there is a need of a coordination mechanism for the transfer of context for flows that belong to the same session. One object with the invention is to offer a coordination mechanism for the handling of context associated to flows that belong to the same session. The above-mentioned object is achieved by a context procedure, in which the total context for a session is divided into one common context and one dynamic context per IP flow. The common context is handled by a centralized control node, such as a Midcom Agent, and the dynamic context is handled by a middlebox associated to an access router. The context transfer procedures for the two types of contexts are coordinated so that an unambiguous session control is maintained.
US07706317B2 Spread-spectrum communication method and apparatus
The communication period of spread spectrum data is divided into a plurality of portions, and an adjustment period for receiving the spread spectrum data is provided between one data-communication period and another communication period. Thereby, the setting of a receiving end is adjusted in the adjustment period after the spread spectrum data is received in one data-communication period.
US07706315B2 Dynamic link assignment in a communication system
An architecture for the dynamic assignment of links in a multi-user communication system. A plurality of information channels are provided in a forward communication link of the communication system for carrying channel information of the plurality of information channels from a transmitter to a plurality of corresponding receiving devices. The channel information in corresponding select ones of the plurality of information channels is varied dynamically in response to link conditions of the associated receiving devices to more efficiently utilize the channel bandwidth.
US07706312B1 Digital sub-carrier signal recovery based on pilot zero-crossing
In an apparatus for generating a synchronized sub-carrier signal based on a pilot signal, a zero-crossing detector may detect a pilot signal zero-crossing in response to consecutive pilot signal samples. In response to the zero-crossing detector, a sub-carrier signal phase sampler generates a sequence of sub-carrier phase samples at a sampling frequency, inclining a first sub-carrier signal phase sample and additional sub-carrier signal phase samples at predetermined phase sample intervals. A phase sample counter counts the number of phase samples obtained by the sub-carrier signal phase sampler. A sub-carrier signal generator generates a synchronized sub-carrier signal in response to the sub-carrier signal phase samples. In response to the zero-crossing detector and the phase sample counter, a post-zero-crossing sub-carrier phase computation circuit outputs to the sub-carrier signal phase sampler an expected phase of a post-zero-crossing pilot signal phase sample in response to a premature pilot signal zero-crossing and an adjusted post-zero-crossing sub-carrier signal phase sample in response to a detected pilot signal zero crossing.
US07706310B2 Method for establishing IPOA channel-based operation and maintenance channels
This invention discloses a method for establishing IPOA channel-based maintenance channels. The invention establishes an IPOA channel between a base station and a base station controller with configuration of the base station. A BOOTP request is initiated from the base station to an operation and maintenance center, and the base station obtains an IP address assigned to it from a response sent from the operation and maintenance center, so that an operation and maintenance channel is established between the base station and the base station controller. The invention can solve automatic base station launching problem, and can prevent IP address conflicts and implement parallel launching of base stations. In addition, with the method described in this invention, operation of establishing maintenance channels is simple, light in workload, and reliable. Thus, program and data auto-loading as well as configuration and maintenance of base station(s) at far end (i.e., the operation and maintenance center) can be achieved. The method described in this invention is superior in quality and low cost in maintenance, and can be applied to various networking patterns, such as star-type, chain-type, and tree-type networks.
US07706302B2 Optimization of routing forwarding database in a network processor
A routing device and associated method for allocating the nodes of a multi-way trie of a forwarding routing table between two or more memory devices is disclosed. In the preferred embodiment, the routing device comprises a routing table for storing a plurality of routes in a multiway trie in a first memory for caching a first set of the plurality of trie nodes and a second memory for caching a second set of the plurality of trie nodes; and a route manager adapted to relocate one or more nodes of the second set from the second memory to the first memory such that the a utilization count for each of the nodes of the first memory is higher than each of the nodes of the second memory.
US07706301B2 Routing in a data communication network
A method of supporting mobility in an Internet Protocol (IP)-based data network. The method comprises the steps of generating a first stateful IP autoconfiguration message at a mobile node, whereby the message includes an address capable of use for routing maintenance. The mobile node transmits the generated message to a first access node, which incorporates its address and forwards the message to a dynamic host configuration protocol (DHCP) Server. The DHCP Server and access node analyze the message to determine a route to deliver data to and/or from the mobile node. One or more route update message are triggered from said access node and said DHCP server to a number of network elements between said access node and said DHCP server in the IP based data network to support mobility in an IP domain with minimum bandwidth use and minimum tunneling required.
US07706299B2 Upstream bandwidth estimation
A technique for estimating the upstream bandwidth for a modem is provided. Various-sized packets are sent on roundtrip journeys through the modem. The roundtrip times for the various-sized packets are compared to provide an estimate of the modem's upstream bandwidth. Alternatively, a block file may be transmitted through the modem to a TFTP server. The TFTP server reports the time needed to complete the file transfer. Based upon the block file transmission start time and the completion time, an upstream bandwidth estimate may be performed. Given the upstream bandwidth estimation, non-VoIP upstream data traffic may be limited accordingly to provide a desired QoS to VoIP calls being supported by the modem.
US07706294B2 Apparatus and method for enabling intelligent Fibre-Channel connectivity over transport
The link status of a Fibre-Channel link interconnecting two Fibre-Channel ports may be determined by a third entity distinct from the two Fibre-Channel ports. The third entity may be a transport interface used to connect one of the Fibre-Channel ports to a transport network that carries the link. The transport interface may also learn the Fibre-Channel port types of the two ports.
US07706285B2 Method and apparatus for monitoring and displaying routing metrics of a network
The invention includes an apparatus and method for displaying path metrics associate with nodes and links within a network. The method includes determining path metric values associated with the network. The method further includes displaying only the path metric values that fall within a predetermined set. The predetermined set can be adjustable by a network manager. The predetermined set can include an initial default value and be additionally adjusted by a network manager. The predetermined set associated with a particular node can be based upon a redundancy of paths available to the particular node.
US07706281B2 Selecting paths in multi-homed transport-layer network associations
A multi-homed network node comprises an interface that is addressable using a primary network address and a secondary network address. Network packets identifying the primary network address traverse a first network path and packets identifying the second network address traverse a second network path that is routed physically separately from the first network path. A transport layer network protocol association is established in the network between a first node and the multi-homed node. One or more data messages are sent to the second node and identify the primary network address. Network feedback information indicates one or more performance characteristics of the first network path. In response, the data messages are automatically modified to identify the secondary network address.
US07706279B2 Communication performance measurement method
The present invention includes a designating packet transferring step, a measurement packet transmitting step and a measurement packet collecting step. The designating packet transferring step is a step of transferring a designating packet in a target section for a communication performance measurement in the communication network, the designating packet designating a relaying apparatus which adds information to the measurement packet from among plural relaying apparatuses. The measurement packet transmitting step is a step of transmitting a measurement packet from one end of the target section. The measurement packet collecting step is a step of collecting the measurement packet transferred in the target section from among measurement packets which are transmitted in the measurement packet transmitting step.
US07706277B2 Selective flow control
In an embodiment, a method is provided. The method of this embodiment provides transmitting data from a source node to a destination node, receiving a special flow control pause frame transmitted by the destination node in response to the destination node detecting a flow modification condition, and adjusting transmission of the data to the destination node in accordance with information included in the special flow control pause frame.
US07706275B2 Method and apparatus for routing data in an inter-nodal communications lattice of a massively parallel computer system by employing bandwidth shells at areas of overutilization
A massively parallel computer system contains an inter-nodal communications network of node-to-node links. An automated routing strategy routes packets through one or more intermediate nodes of the network to reach a final destination. The default routing strategy is altered responsive to detection of overutilization of a particular path of one or more links, and at least some traffic is re-routed by distributing the traffic among multiple paths (which may include the default path). An alternative path may require a greater number of link traversals to reach the destination node.
US07706273B2 Port tracking on dynamically negotiated ports
Techniques for tracking dynamically negotiated port connections in a network include collecting statistical information on packets that are sent between nodes on a network, inspecting packets of control connections to detect payload fragments that denote ephemeral port negotiation and producing a mapping from a ephemeral connection flow_id to a control connection flow_id. The techniques also include checking the flow_id to see whether a flow record maps to a control connection.
US07706269B2 Method, system and device for controlling a transmission window size
A method and system for controlling a transmission window size, wherein a transmission condition of the transmission path between a transmitting element and a receiving element is checked when at least one of the transmitting and receiving elements moves from a first access network to a second access network. Then, the transmission window size is changed in response to the result of said checking step. Thereby, the transmission window can be decreased actively to thereby accelerate the control procedure and improve resource utilization.
US07706248B2 Multicarrier receiver and method for time-delay compensation in a multi-user uplink
Embodiments of System and Method for compensating for time-of-arrival differences between uplink packets in a Wireless Network are generally described herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.
US07706247B2 Frequency offset differential pulse position modulation
The present invention provides such a need by utilizing a frequency offset differential pulse position modulation scheme to transmit data between computing devices within a wireless network system. The differential pulse position modulation component of the scheme enables the present invention to provide relative immunity to interference for the system. In particular, such immunity from interference is achieved by utilizing a blanking time between pulse positions, which is large enough to allow the interference between frequency offset—differential pulse position modulation pulses to subside. The frequency offset component of the scheme enables the system to utilize multiple frequency channels to enable the system to achieve higher data rates. In particular, by utilizing a time offset between the frequency channels, the blanking time can be reduced, thereby increasing the amount of data that can be transmitted with a set period of time.
US07706232B2 Information recording medium having a wobbling groove structure
An information recording medium having at least a read only area and a recording and reproducing area is composed of at least: a substrate; a recording layer formed on the substrate so as to record and reproduce information; and a light transmission layer having transparency formed on the recording layer. The information recording medium is further characterized in that a wobbling groove corresponding to the read only area and another wobbling groove corresponding to the recording and reproducing area is formed on the substrate without overlapping with each other, the recording and light transmitting layers are continuously adhered over at least two areas of the read only area and the recording and reproducing area, reflectivity of the recording layer is more than 5%, and a push-pull signal output T3 reproduced from the read only area and another push-pull signal output T4 reproduced from the recording and reproducing area before recording satisfies relations of T3≧0.1, T4≧0.1 and 1.5≧T3/T4≧0.5.
US07706227B2 Information recording/reproduction apparatus
An optical information recording/reproduction apparatus includes a correction device that corrects aberration, due to a change in thicknesses of a transparent substrate and spherical aberration generated by inserting an optical attenuation device into an optical path or retreating the optical attenuation device from the optical path, by changing intervals between a plurality of lenses. The correction device is disposed between an objective lens and a light source. The correction device also functions as a collimator lens. The optical attenuation device is provided in an optical path of diverging light flux from the light source to the correction device, for attenuating an optical output from the light source. A discrimination circuit discriminates (i) a kind of the optical recording medium and (ii) an insertion of the optical attenuation device into the optical path or a retreating of the optical attenuation device from the optical path, and produces a discrimination result. A learning circuit performs a learning process by searching for a correction amount, while the correction device changes the intervals between the plurality of lenses, and a circuit changes initial positions of the intervals between the plurality of lenses at a start of the learning process performed by the learning circuit, in accordance with the discrimination result produced by the discrimination circuit.
US07706222B2 Demodulator, disk drive device, and demodulation method
A demodulator for demodulating an input signal including a predetermined modulated signal includes a multiplication fundamental wave generator for outputting a multiplication fundamental wave for the predetermined modulated signal, a calculator for multiplying the multiplication fundamental wave by the input signal and for integrating the multiplication result, a demodulated signal generator for generating a demodulated signal of the modulated signal using the output from the calculator, a phase determiner for determining a cross-phase state of the input signal and the multiplication fundamental wave on the basis of a balance of levels of a plurality of integrated values, obtained as the integration result, for an interval containing the modulated signal in the input signal, and a phase adjuster for adjusting a phase of the multiplication fundamental wave to be supplied to the calculator on the basis of the determination result of the phase determiner.
US07706220B2 Photodetector, diffraction grating, optical pickup and optical disc apparatus
The present invention provides a photodetector capable of generating highly accurate tracking and focusing error signals free of variations in light quantity caused by interference, in an optical pickup with a two-wavelength multilaser. The photodetector comprises first three light receiving areas arranged linearly to receive three light beams respectively resulting from splitting of a light beam emitted from a laser light source of a first wavelength and second three light receiving areas arranged linearly to receive three light beams respectively resulting from splitting of a light beam emitted from a laser light source of a second wavelength longer than the first wavelength. The distance between both-end light receiving areas out of the first three light receiving areas is longer than the distance between both-end light receiving areas out of the second three light receiving areas.
US07706219B2 Signal processing apparatus and method for an optical disc drive
A signal processing apparatus includes sample and hold units for holding a plurality of analog photo diode signals. A signal holding controller generates control signals to the sample and hold units for holding the analog photo diode signals. Analog adjusting modules adjust the held analog photo diode signals. A multiplexer selectively couples one input end of the multiplexer to the output end of the multiplexer for outputting the adjusted analog photo diode signals. An analog to digital converter converts the adjusted analog photo diode signals into digital photo diode signals.
US07706214B2 Perpetual calendar mechanism
The perpetual calendar mechanism includes a date mobile (16, 28-31), a date lever (3) bearing a small click (14), a correction lever (4) driving a great click (40) and a finger (2) driving the levers (3, 4). The date mobile (16, 28-31) is shifted instantaneously by the small click (14) during the transition from one day to the next within a month and during the transition from the last day of a month of 31 days to the first day of the following month, and partly in a dragging manner by the great click (40) during the transition from the last day of a month of less than 31 days to the first day of the following month.
US07706207B2 Memory with level shifting word line driver and method thereof
A memory includes a bit cell array including a plurality of word lines and address decode circuitry having an output to provide a predecode value. The address decode circuitry includes a first plurality of transistors having a first gate oxide thickness. The memory further includes word line driver circuitry having an input coupled to the output of the address decode circuitry and a plurality of outputs, each output coupled to a corresponding word line of the plurality of word lines. The word line driver includes a second plurality of transistors having a second gate oxide thickness greater than the first gate oxide thickness. A method of operating the memory also is provided.
US07706204B2 Portable data storage apparatus
A memory card includes a non-volatile memory; and a power management unit for receiving an external supply voltage to supply an operating voltage to the non-volatile memory. The power management unit boosts/bypasses the external supply voltage based on whether the external supply voltage is lower than a detection voltage and then outputs the boosted/bypassed voltage as the operating voltage of the non-volatile memory.
US07706186B2 Controlling a semiconductor device
A semiconductor device and a control method thereof that include a memory cell array having a plurality of nonvolatile memory cells and a control circuit. The control circuit starts a first operation of the memory cells in a part of the region of the memory cell array when a first command is input, then decides whether to temporarily suspend the first operation or to reset the first operation when a second command is input, and temporarily suspends the first operation if the control circuit decides to temporarily suspend the first operation, and terminates the first operation if the control circuit decides to reset the first operation.
US07706180B2 Method and apparatus for reduction of bit-line disturb and soft-erase in a trapped-charge memory
A method and device for trading off inhibit disturb against bit-line disturb in a non-volatile memory where a threshold shift per inhibit disturb is increased, a threshold shift per bit-line disturb is decreased and the total threshold shift over the expected lifetime of the non-volatile memory due to inhibit disturbs is approximately equalized with the total threshold shift over the expected lifetime of the non-volatile memory due to bit-line disturbs.
US07706168B2 Erase, programming and leakage characteristics of a resistive memory device
The present method provides annealing of a resistive memory device so as to provide that the device in its erased state has a greatly increased resistance as compared to a prior art approach. The annealing also provides that the device may be erased by application of any of a plurality of electrical potentials within an increased range of electrical potentials as compared to the prior art.
US07706167B2 Resistance change memory device
A resistance change memory device including: a substrate; cell arrays stacked thereabove, each including a matrix layout of memory cells; a write circuit configured to write a pair cell constituted by two neighboring memory cells; and a read circuit configured to read complementary resistance value states of the pair cell as one bit of data, wherein the memory cell includes a variable resistance element for storing as information a resistance value. The variable resistance element has: a recording layer formed of a composite compound containing at least one transition element and a cavity site for housing a cation ion; and electrodes formed on the opposite sides of the recording layer, one of the electrodes serving as a cation source in a write or erase mode for supplying a cation to the recording layer to be housed in the cavity site therein.
US07706161B2 Single stage resonant power converter with auxiliary power source
The improved single stage power converter circuit topology substantially reduces EMI that is conducted to the AC line, reduces input AC current inrush, improves output ripples by the use of an auxiliary supply near zero crossings of the line AC voltage, provides Power Factors greater than 0.95, provides Total Harmonic Distortions less than 15%, and maintains constant power, including constant power in a non-linear output load. Further, this circuit topology provides output open and short circuit protections by reducing current stress in power components. This topology can also make the power source to appear as a fast-acting variable impedance source, an ideal source for powering an output load that has negative resistance characteristics such as gas discharge lamps.
US07706149B2 Micro-electro-mechanical-system package and method for manufacturing the same
A MEMS package includes a first board, a second board and a laminate material. The first board includes a lower metallic trace, a metallic diaphragm and a through opening. The lower metallic trace is located on the lower surface of the first board, and the metallic diaphragm is disposed on the lower metallic trace. The second board includes an upper metallic trace and a metallic electrode. The upper metallic trace is located on the upper surface of the second board, the metallic electrode is disposed on the upper metallic trace, and the metallic electrode is corresponding to the metallic diaphragm. The laminate material is disposed between the lower and upper metallic traces, and includes a hollow portion for accommodating the metallic electrode and metallic diaphragm, wherein a sensing unit is formed by the metallic electrode, the hollow portion and the metallic diaphragm, and is corresponding to the through opening.
US07706139B2 Plasma display device and its method of manufacture
A plasma display device and its method of manufacture includes a chassis base supporting a Plasma Display Panel (PDP) and having at least one assembly hole, and at least one standoff, each standoff having a first end inserted into a respective assembly hole of the chassis base and a second end coupled to the chassis base. The second end of each standoff is pressed into the chassis base.
US07706138B2 Hinge and stand for display device
Provided are a hinge and a stand for a display device. The hinge includes a rotary body fixed to a display device; a support fixed to a base; a key bracket inserted in the rotary body; a hole formed inside the key bracket; and a rotary shaft inserted to the hole and the support and being a rotation axis of the rotary body. Thus, the hinge and stand may be manufactured at low costs because a small number of components are used. Also, the hinge structure effectively stands against the external vibration because no screw is used during an assembling process, and forming an exterior of the hinge in itself eliminates need to use a separate component for the exterior, thereby reducing the manufacturing costs of the stand.
US07706133B2 Solid electrolytic capacitor
A solid electrolytic capacitor includes a capacitor element, an anode-side lead terminal connected to an anode of the capacitor element, a cathode-side lead terminal connected to a cathode of the capacitor element, and an armor covering the capacitor element and having an electrical insulating property. The armor has two principal faces opposed to each other, and two side faces connecting the two principal faces and opposed to each other. The anode-side lead terminal has at least a first terminal portion exposed in one of the principal faces. The cathode-side lead terminal has at least a first terminal portion exposed in the one of the principal faces, and a second terminal portion exposed in the one of the principal faces and extending from the first terminal portion so as to be exposed in either of the two side faces. The solid electrolytic capacitor satisfies the following relation: W/G≧1.0, where W is a width of the second terminal portion of the cathode-side lead terminal and G is a gap between the anode-side lead terminal and the cathode-side terminal on the one of the principal faces.
US07706124B2 Filtering capacitor feedthrough assembly
A filtering capacitor feedthrough assembly for an implantable active medical device is disclosed. The filtering capacitor feedthrough assembly includes a capacitor having an aperture, the capacitor is electrically grounded to an electrically conductive feedthrough ferrule or housing of the implantable active medical device. A terminal pin extends into the aperture and an electrically conductive continuous coil is disposed within the aperture and between the terminal pin and the capacitor. The electrically conductive continuous coil mechanically secures and electrically couples the terminal pin to the capacitor.
US07706119B2 Electrostatic discharge protection apparatus
An electrostatic discharge protection apparatus disposed in an optical disk drive includes a spindle motor and a feeding mechanism for driving a pick-up head. The mechanism includes a sled motor for driving the pick-up head. A traverse is disposed in a casing of the optical disk drive for disposing the motor and the mechanism. The electrostatic discharge protection apparatus is an elastic sheet disposed at one end of the spindle motor adjacent to the sled motor and includes a main body and several strips extending from the main body. The main body is connected with a metal fixing plate of the spindle motor. One strip contacts the sled motor, another strip contacts the guide bar, and another obliquely protruding strip penetrates and contacts a base plate and presses against the casing. A big electrostatic discharge sink is formed to buffer the transient impact caused by high electrostatic charges.
US07706103B2 Electric field assisted writing using a multiferroic recording media
An apparatus comprises a data storage medium including a piezoelectric material and a ferromagnetic material, an electric field source for applying an electric field to a portion of the data storage medium, and a write pole for applying a magnetic field to the portion of the data storage medium. A method performed by the apparatus is also provided.
US07706100B2 Storage apparatus, storage control circuit, and head-position-displacement measuring method
A measurement recording unit causes the head to move across a predetermined amount, at least more than one track during one lap of track, with a predetermined radial position and a track position of the magnetic disk being taken as recording start points, thereby writing measurement data while drawing a spiral path. A measurement reading unit causes the measurement data recorded in a spiral manner to be read while gradually shifting a read-beginning point within a predetermined scanning range from an inner perimeter side including the recording start points to an outer perimeter side. A position-displacement detecting unit finds a distribution of amplitudes of a read-back signal within a read scanning range and detects, in a distribution of evaluation values, an amount of position displacement of a read head and a write head on the storage medium in a radial direction for storage.
US07706099B2 Magnetic disk drive and method of controlling the same
Embodiments of the present invention provide a magnetic disk drive, in which a disturbance component contained in an output signal from a rotational vibration detector, can be appropriately suppressed irrespective of frequency of the component, and a method of controlling the drive. According to one embodiment, in a magnetic disk drive having a rotational vibration detector for detecting rotational vibration of a drive housing, a main control circuit performs a head moving step of driving a voice coil motor to move a magnetic head on a magnetic disk, a frequency estimation step of estimating a frequency of each disturbance component contained in an output signal from the rotational vibration detector after moving the magnetic head, and a suppressor setting step of setting a notch filter for suppressing the disturbance component based on the estimated frequency.
US07706098B2 Disk drive in which the dynamic flying height of head is adjusted
According to one embodiment, an adjusting element adjusts a dynamic flying height of a head lying over a disk in accordance with the power supplied to it. A calculation module calculates the power to supply to the adjusting element, from a barometric pressure detected by a barometric pressure sensor. A failure detection module detects failure of the barometric pressure sensor. An unload controller predicts an abnormal dynamic flying height of the head from the failure detected and then instructs the unloading of the head away from the disk.
US07706089B2 Lens driving device
A lens driving device including: a lens barrel having at least one lens therein and provided with a friction member; a housing for housing the lens barrel therein; an actuator having a piezoelectric body disposed at an edge of the housing to apply a driving force, the piezoelectric body having at least one output member provided at one side thereof to be in contact with the friction member; a preload member disposed between the edge of the housing and the actuator to apply an elastic force toward the lens barrel; and a guiding part disposed between the housing and the lens barrel to guide the lens barrel to move in an optical axis direction. The lens driving device is simplified in a driving mechanism and thus reduced in size, while experiencing minimum loss of a driving power and ensuring more accurate and stable movement of the lens.
US07706087B2 Optical system and optical apparatus
Providing an optical system having a large aperture ratio, a long back focal length, high optical performance with excellently correcting various aberrations, and an optical apparatus equipped with the optical system. The system includes, in order from an object along an optical axis of the optical system, a first lens group having positive refractive power, and a second lens group having positive refractive power. The second lens group includes a negative lens, a first positive lens, and a second positive lens, and the optical system includes a compound type aspherical lens constructed by a glass material and a resin material.
US07706067B2 Decelerating and locking mechanism for a projection screen and the manually operated projection screen using the mechanism
The present invention provides a manually operated projection screen having a decelerating and locking mechanism which intergrates a decelerating mechanism and a locking mechanism as a whole. The decelerating and locking mechanism for a projection screen includes a braking and locking device having a centrifugal brake shoe, a brake drum interacting with the centrifugal brake shoe to perform decelerating function, and a ratchet interacting with the centrifugal brake shoe to perform locking function. The decelerating and locking mechanism includes at least three sets of planetary gear, the transmission ratio of the planetary gear is 1:32 or above. The decelerating and locking mechanism and the projection screen using the same is compact and easy to assemble. The projection screen can be freely positioned or locked at any moment and is free of crease.
US07706066B2 Portable front projection screen assemblies with flexible screens
Portable projection screen assemblies include: (a) a roller housing holding a roller with a flexible projection screen; (b) at least one substantially laterally extending screen support arm attached to the roller housing, the at least one screen support arm being configured to hold an outer edge portion of the flexible projection screen when the projection screen is in a laterally extended configuration; and (c) an outer housing case having an interior cavity sized and configured to hold the roller housing therein in a storage configuration. The roller housing is hingeably or releasably attached to the housing case and resides substantially vertically above the outer case in an operative position, whereby the outer housing case defines a support base adapted to reside on a support surface.
US07706056B2 Modulation of terahertz radiation
A method of modulation terahertz radiation comprising: (A) generating Terahertz radiation by pumping nonequilibrium electrons into a Magnon Gain Medium (MGM), wherein propagation of nonequilibrium electrons in the MGM causes generation of nonequilibrium magnons, and wherein interaction between the nonequilibrium magnons causes generation of the Terahertz radiation; and (B) frequency modulating THz radiation generated in the MGM by applying longitudinal AC magnetic field, or by applying AC electrical field bias.
US07706050B2 Integrated modulator illumination
A spatial light modulator includes an array of elements to modulate light in accordance with image data. The modulator has a display panel having first and second surfaces arranged adjacent to the array of elements such that the second surface is directly adjacent the array of elements to allow a viewer to view an image produced by modulation of light. The modulator may also include a light source to provide light to the display panel and illumination dots on the first surface of the display panel to reflect light from the source to the array of elements.
US07706047B2 Acousto-optical laser scanner and UV laser analyzer of micro-objects based on it
Two-coordinate AO laser scanner for 355 and 266-nm UV wavebands utilizing AO cells with specially shaped TeO2 and KDP AO crystals, and equipped with LiNbO3 pulse-fed transducers of special configuration that allows enlarging scanning angle. This technology is utilized in computer-controlled UV laser analyzer of micro-objects, which performs florescent and reflected light analysis of any chosen micro-spot of a sample, and UV laser micro-machining unit that can process a sample with simultaneous control of the operation by built-in CCD camera. The technical solution utilized in the analyzer and micro-machining unit allows precisely matching coordinates of the processed sample and CCD matrix.
US07706046B2 Rearview mirror element having a circuit mounted to the rear surface of the element
According to the present invention, a rearview mirror comprises a first substrate having a front surface and a rear surface, a reflective coating disposed on a surface of the first substrate, and an electronic circuit component secured to the rear surface of the first substrate. The mirror element may be an electrochromic mirror element comprising a transparent second substrate positioned in front of the first substrate. The electronic component secured to the rear surface may be a component of a drive circuit for the electrochromic mirror element. The rearview mirror element may further comprise electrically conductive tracings provided on the rear surface of the first substrate electrically coupled to the electrical component. The tracings may be used to electrically couple the drive circuit to the electrodes of the electrochromic mirror element. The tracings may be deposited on the rear surface using numerous methods including inkjet printing techniques.
US07706044B2 Optical interference display cell and method of making the same
An optical interference display cell is described. A first electrode and a sacrificial layer are sequentially formed on a transparent substrate and at least two openings are formed in the first electrode and the sacrificial layer to define a position of the optical interference display cell. An insulated heat-resistant inorganic supporter is formed in each of the openings. A second electrode is formed on the sacrificial layer and the supporters. Finally, a remote plasma etching process is used for removing the sacrificial layer.
US07706040B2 Optical scanning apparatus, illuminant apparatus and image forming apparatus
An optical scanning apparatus scans a surface to be scanned in a main scanning direction by simultaneously using a plurality of optical spots formed of a plurality of optical beams emitted from an illuminant, comprising: a light path deflecting part deflecting a light path of at least one of the optical beams, wherein the light path deflecting part is provided in light paths of the optical beams wherein the light path deflecting part may use a liquid crystal deflecting element formed of a liquid crystal element being controllable by an electronic signal to deflect the light path of the one of the optical beams.
US07706037B2 Fabrication process for cholesteric liquid crystal media having a volume hologram
The invention provides a process capable of fabricating a cholesteric liquid crystal medium having a volume hologram with efficiency yet without recourse to complicated steps such as an alignment step. This is achievable as follows. A volume hologram layer is formed on a substrate, and a cholesteric liquid crystal layer is then formed on another substrate comprising a center substrate film that is subjected to bondable treatment. The volume hologram layer is applied to the center substrate film that is subjected to bondable treatment, and placed in a state where the volume hologram layer and cholesteric liquid crystal layer are laminated together via the substrate. The substrate is peeled off the volume hologram layer, and an adhesive layer is formed on the surface of the volume hologram layer off which the substrate is peeled off, followed by the provision of the substrate on the adhesive layer. Finally, the multilayer structure is shaped into a label form of cholesteric liquid crystal medium having a volume hologram layer.
US07706035B2 Image processing apparatus and image processing method
An image processing apparatus processes an input color image, combines the input color image with the processed color image in a ratio that varies from picture element to picture element according to the hue of the picture element, and outputs the combined image. The output image can accordingly be selectively processed to give desired qualities in suitable degrees to particular hues.
US07706030B2 Document illuminator with parabolic optical element
An apparatus for illuminating a document includes an optical element formed of a light-transmissive material of a predetermined refractory index that defines a curved entry surface and an exit surface opposite the entry surface in which light enters the optical element via the entry surface and light exits the optical element via exit surface. A first substantially parabolic surface is defined between a first edge of the entry surface and first edge of the exit surface and a second substantially parabolic surface is defined between a second edge of the entry surface and a second edge of the exit surface such that the first and second substantially parabolic surface are spaced apart more at the exit surface than at the entry surface.
US07706024B2 Image processing apparatus
An image processing apparatus that can determine an optimal registration color according to an acquired image is provided. An image processing unit 6 receives a sample image from an imaging unit 2 and acquires a hue with respect to each of pixels arranged two-dimensionally that constitute the sample image and calculates a hue histogram. A control unit 4 extracts a candidate color based on the hue at a maximum point in the hue histogram received from the image processing unit 6. At the same time, the control unit 4 determines a hue threshold value in order to define the range of the color regarded as the candidate color. Furthermore, the control unit 4 extracts all pixels that satisfy the hue threshold value of the candidate color and acquires the value and chroma of the extracted pixel and sets the maximum value and the minimum value in the acquired value and chroma to a value threshold value and a chroma threshold value. The control unit 4 stores the determined hue threshold value, value threshold value and chroma threshold value in a memory unit 6a.
US07706020B2 Extensible system for color management
A color engine supports extensibility by allowing plug-ins. The color engine transforms an image file associated with a source device for consumption by a destination device. Within the color engine, a device model operates over a device model profile to generate a gamut boundary shell, which describes the range of colors a device is capable of producing. A color appearance model operates over a color appearance model profile to compensate for external viewing conditions. A gamut map model accepts as input gamut boundary shells describing the source device and the destination device, and operates over a gamut map model profile to generate a transform, which is used to transform the image file for consumption by the destination device. The device model profiles and gamut map model profiles may be extended using XML plug-ins, and the device models and gamut map models may be extended using DLL plug-ins.
US07706018B2 Image enhancement system and method
An image enhancement system includes a scanning device including a photosensor element having a plurality of different color channels. The system also includes an exposure control module configured to vary an exposure time of the plurality of different color channels to generate at least two different exposure level scans of a media object. The system further includes an imaging application configured to generate an enhanced scanned image of the media object using image data obtained from the at least two different exposure level scans.
US07706017B2 Systems and methods for providing load balance rendering for direct printing
Systems and methods for rendering a document in a native format at an imaging device using a host service for rendering into printer ready data. Documents/images are despooled to an imaging device in their native format for printing, wherein the imaging device includes the capability of discovering application/print server processes that render the document in its native format into a format compatible with the imaging device. The imaging device broadcasts job rendering requirements to one or more application/imaging servers, which in turn provide a response to the broadcast. One or more of the application/imaging servers are selectively chosen for use in rendering the document/print job, providing the device specific rendered job to the imaging device for rendering. In addition, when multiple compatible services are available, an optimal host service is determined and used for rendering into printer ready data.
US07706013B2 Image forming system
In an image forming system which has a client unit, a management unit, and a printer unit, when the client unit issues a replacement print request to the management unit, the management unit notifies the client unit of the contents of the print queue in response to the replacement print request. The client unit displays the notified contents of the print queue, and prompts the user to designate a print job to be replaced and an inserting position of a new print job into the print queue. After that, the client unit outputs, to the management unit, replacement information which includes information indicating the designated print job to be replaced, information indicating the designated inserting position, and the new print job. The management unit updates the print queue in accordance with this replacement information.
US07706011B2 Image sensing apparatus and control method therefor
An image sensing apparatus, such as a digital camera, directly communicates with a printer so that a printer with a photo-direct printing function normally prints a file containing raw and encoded image data. When the digital camera side selects a file containing raw and JPEG images, and the printer has a raw image printing function, the selected image file is directly output. When the file containing the raw and JPEG images is selected, and the printer does not have the raw image printing function, it is decided whether the size of the selected image file exceeds the upper limit size acceptable to the printer. If the file size exceeds the upper limit size, the raw image data is removed to reduce the file size, and the obtained data is transmitted to the printer. When an upper limit is not set, the selected image file is directly transmitted.
US07706006B2 Image reading apparatus and information processing apparatus
In an image reading apparatus having an image reading device which reads a document to output an image data thereof, and an image processor which performs a processing of interest on the image data received from the image reading device, a decision device decides whether the image data should be processed by the image processor or not. When the image data should be processed by the image processor, a transmission device transmits the image data subjected to the processing of interest by the image processor, otherwise it transmits the image data not subjected to the processing of interest by the image processor.
US07706003B2 Image forming apparatus, and control method of the same
When a shutdown instruction is input, whether there is a job under execution or a waiting job is determined (S604). A list of information on a job under execution, if it is found, and information on a waiting job, if it is found, is displayed (S611). After the list is displayed, a control process pertaining to shutdown is performed.
US07705998B2 Method for evaluating an optical imaging process
A method includes calculating destructive interference conditions between two linearly s-polarized waves and between two linearly p-polarized waves, respectively, in dependence on varying parameters of the s- and p-polarized waves, representing the destructive interference conditions in a diagram, setting an optical radiation field to be used in the optical imaging process, and comparing the optical radiation field with the diagram.
US07705992B2 Optical coherence tomography system
A polarization maintaining optical fiber, for guiding a measuring light beam, is provided within a probe. The probe is configured to be rotatable in the circumferential direction of the polarization maintaining optical fiber. A polarization direction rotator, for rotating the polarization direction of the measuring light beam that enters the polarization maintaining optical fiber accompanying rotation of the probe, is provided in order to maintain a state in which the polarization direction of the measuring light beam that enters the polarization maintaining optical fiber and the direction of the polarization axis of the polarization maintaining optical fiber are matched.
US07705988B2 Gas detection
Apparatus for detecting a target gas in a monitored space includes two laser diodes driven by drive circuits at electrical frequencies f and f′ that are not harmonically related. The lasers operate at mean wavelengths Λ1 and Λ2 respectively close to two different absorption lines of the target gas and are scanned over wavelength ranges ∂Λ1 and ∂Λ2 respectively. The outputs from the lasers are collimated by an optical element and delivered to a receiver element after passing through the space. The receiver element focuses the radiation from both lasers onto a detector where the optical signals are combined into a single electrical signal with principal frequency components f and f′. A quantity of target gas Q1 is calculated from the amplitude of frequency component f1 for measurements made around wavelength Λ1 and a quantity of target gas Q2 is calculated from the amplitude of frequency component f2 for measurements made around wavelength Λ2.
US07705983B2 Wavelength displacement correcting system
A wavelength displacement correcting system and method where a monochromatic beam from an LED is incident through an incident slit of a spectral device and is diffracted on a diffraction grating to form a dispersed light image. Information relating to the dispersed light image is outputted and a wavelength displacement is calculated, using a forward voltage value corresponding to the constant current, and a forward voltage initial value. Wavelength displacement amounts of at least two diffracted beams are calculated, using output values of the at least two diffracted beams, and diffracted beam output initial values with respect to the dispersed light image. A dispersion width is calculated, using the calculated wavelength displacement amount of the beam, and the calculated wavelength displacement amounts of at least two diffracted beams.
US07705980B2 Method for correcting a spectral image for optical aberrations using software
A spectral image is corrected for optical aberrations. Tissue is exposed to a high-intensity, narrow band of light. The narrow band of light is scattered by at least one analyte in the tissue. Raman signals are optically collected from the scattered light. The Raman signals are directed to a wavelength-separating device. The Raman signals are detected as a function of intensity and wavelength to create the spectral image. The spectral image is corrected for optical aberrations using a software algorithm to spatially reassign intensity. The software may be adapted to use a reference image to make dynamic corrections. Fluorescence signals may also be collected.
US07705969B2 Exposure apparatus
An exposure apparatus exposes a pattern of an original onto a substrate while a liquid fills a gap between a projection optical system and the substrate. A liquid holding plate sets the substrate, held on a substrate stage, and a peripheral area around a peripheral portion of the substrate, to form substantially the same surface to hold the liquid on the peripheral portion of the substrate. The liquid holding plate includes (i) an inner member formed in the peripheral area around the peripheral portion of the substrate and holds the liquid on the peripheral portion, (ii) an outer member formed on a peripheral portion of the inner member and attaching to the substrate stage, and (iii) a connection member that connects the inner member to the outer member. The connection member has a lower rigidity than those of the inner member and the outer member.
US07705963B2 Pupil improvement of incoherent imaging systems for enhanced CD linearity
A pattern generator may include an electromagnetic radiation source and an optical system. The electromagnetic radiation source may emit electromagnetic radiation to create a pattern on a workpiece. The optical system may include an optical path for the electromagnetic radiation emitted from the electromagnetic radiation source and may be configured such that an apodization of the electromagnetic radiation is sufficient to optimize a critical dimension linearity for the created pattern.
US07705957B2 Liquid crystal panel having multiple spacer walls
A liquid crystal panel includes a first substrate having thereon a display active region; an inner spacer wall disposed on the first substrate along periphery of the display active region; an outer spacer wall disposed adjacent to the inner spacer wall on the first substrate; a groove formed between the inner spacer wall and the outer spacer wall; a seal spread in the groove; a second substrate being supported by the inner spacer wall and the outer spacer wall and being glued to the first substrate via the seal, wherein the first substrate, the second substrate and the inner spacer wall define a chamber; and a liquid crystal layer filling the chamber by using one-drop-fill process.
US07705956B2 Display device
The display device includes: a wiring substrate 31 having wiring lines and switching elements thereon; a counter substrate 33 held so as to oppose the wiring substrate 31; a display medium layer 35 provided between the wiring substrate 31 and the counter substrate 33; and a sealing section 37 surrounding the display medium layer 35, the sealing section 37 being formed of a sealing material which contains a photocurable resin. The display device has a display region 40 in which a plurality of pixels are included. The sealing material contains light-scattering particles for scattering light which cures the photocurable resin. The counter substrate 33 has a light shielding layer 39 thereon, the light shielding layer 39 surrounding the display region 40. The sealing section 37 is formed within a region shaded by the light shielding layer 39. Deterioration of reliability due to curing failures of the sealing material is suppressed.
US07705954B2 Liquid crystal display device and method of fabricating the same
An LCD and a fabrication method thereof are provided. The LCD includes a gate pad. The gate pad includes a gate ITO electrode formed on a substrate, a first and a second gate pad bottom electrode formed on a predetermined region of the gate ITO electrode, a gate insulating layer formed on the first and the second gate pad bottom electrode, a passivation layer formed on the gate insulating layer, a gate pad top electrode formed on the passivation layer, and at least one contact hole. The LCD further comprises a liquid crystal panel having a gate line that has a dual structure integrally formed with the first gate pad bottom electrode and the second gate pad bottom electrode.
US07705953B2 Display device wherein a termination resistor is formed on a second connecting substrate
Disclosed is a display device including: a display panel on which a plurality of driver chips are mounted by using a COG configuration; a signal substrate on which a timing controller for generating a differential signal inputted into each of the driver chips is formed; and a connecting substrate which connects the plurality of driver chips with the timing controller, wherein the connecting substrate includes a first connecting substrate on which a first line for inputting the differential signal into a driver chip excluding a driver chip located at a terminating area is formed and a second connecting substrate on which a second line for inputting the differential signal into the driver chip located at the terminating area, and wherein a termination resistor connects the second line for transmitting the differential signal which is formed on the second connecting substrate.
US07705949B2 Liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal display includes a pair of transparent substrates opposed to each other with liquid crystal therebetween, one of the pair of transparent substrates having a plurality of drain signal lines and a plurality of gate signal lines, and a plurality of pixel areas defined by the drain signal lines and the gate signal lines. The pixel areas includes a pixel electrode formed of a transparent electrode having a plurality of slits including a slit opened in a first direction and a slit opened in a second direction, and a counter electrode formed of a transparent electrode disposed between the transparent electrode of the pixel electrode having the plurality of slits and the one substrate.
US07705948B2 Liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal display device having an upper electrode layer and a lower electrode layer formed on an identical substrate via an insulating layer includes slits formed on the upper electrode layer for applying voltage between the upper electrode layer and the lower electrode layer and driving liquid crystal molecules. Edge portions of the slits each include a first curved portion the tangential direction of which at the edge portions with respect to the rubbing direction falls within a range from 0° to +90° and a second curved portion the tangential direction of which at the edge portions with respect to the rubbing direction falls within the range from 0° to −90°. The direction toward an acute angle subtended by the long sides of the slits with respect to the rubbing direction is the positive direction. The second curved portion is smaller than the first curved portion.
US07705941B2 Liquid crystal display
A liquid crystal display includes a first substrate, a first field generating electrode arranged on the first substrate and including first and second cutouts, and a second substrate facing the first substrate. A second field generating electrode is arranged on the second substrate and includes a third cutout, and a liquid crystal layer is interposed between the first and second field generating electrodes. A column spacer is interposed between the first and second substrates and is disposed in the first cutout region.
US07705940B2 Dual display liquid crystal display device
Disclosed is a dual display LCD device including: a front light unit supplying light; a first polarizer on the front light unit; an LCD panel on the first polarizer; a selective reflection/transmission part on the LCD panel; and a second polarizer on the selective reflection/transmission part; wherein the selective reflection/transmission part selectively reflects the light in a reflection mode to display an image on a front side thereof in a first display mode; and wherein the selective reflection/transmission part passes the light in a transmission mode to display an image on a rear side thereof in a second display mode.
US07705939B2 Transflective liquid crystal display
A transflective liquid crystal display having at least one reflective region 122 and at least one transmissive region 121. The display comprises a first polarizer 5, a second polarizer 100 opposing the first polarizer 5, two twisted nematic liquid crystal layers 30, 60 between said first and second polarizers 5, 100 and a reflector 110 for reflecting light passing though the reflective region 122 of the display. The twisted nematic liquid crystal layers 30, 60 have opposite twist directions to each other. The second twisted nematic liquid crystal layer 60 improves the contrast of the display. The display may have a double cell arrangement, in which case there may be a single cell gap or a double cell gap. Alternatively, the display may have a single cell arrangement in which case the second twisted nematic liquid crystal layer is a temperature dependent retardation film 65.
US07705938B2 Transflective type liquid crystal display device and method for manufacturing the same
A transflective type liquid crystal display device includes a first substrate having a pixel region, the pixel region including a transmission region and a reflection region, the first substrate having a light guiding layer formed thereon, a reflector being formed on the light guiding layer with the reflection region, the light guiding layer including a first medium and a second medium, a refractive index of the first medium and a refractive index of the second medium being different from each other, a second substrate, which faces the first substrate, and on which a color filter layer is formed, a liquid crystal layer interposed between the first and the second substrates, and a backlight assembly positioned outside of the first substrate to provide light onto the first medium in a mode.
US07705937B2 Transflective liquid crystal display device
An IPS-mode transflective LCD device includes an array of pixels each including a reflective region and a transmissive region juxtaposed. The reflective region operates in a normally-white mode, and the transmissive region operates in a normally-black mode. A common data signal is supplied to the reflective region and transmissive region, whereas the common electrode signal in the transmissive region is an inverted signal of the common electrode signal in the reflective region, to thereby obtain similar gray-scale levels.
US07705935B2 Stereoscopic display system
There is provided a polarized display, comprising: an intensity modulating matrix display having a front surface; and a polarizing matrix display panel in front of said intensity modulating matrix display, the polarizing matrix display panel having a front surface; wherein the display is one of: a linear polarization display, each pixel of the polarizing matrix display panel being controllable and a rotation of a generated polarized light being varied over a range including 90 degrees and below; and: an elliptical polarization display, each pixel of the polarizing matrix display panel being controllable and a phase between a fast and a slow axes of a polarized light coming from a corresponding pixel of the intensity modulating matrix display in a range including 180 degrees and below.
US07705932B2 Double-sided liquid crystal display having differently sized optical film assemblies
An exemplary double-sided liquid crystal display (LCD) (200) includes a first liquid crystal panel (212), a first optical film assembly (211), a light guide plate (230), a second optical film assembly (211), and a second liquid crystal panel (222) arranged in that order from bottom to top. An area of the second liquid crystal panel is less than an area of the first liquid crystal panel, and an area of the second optical film assembly is less than an area of the first optical film assembly. The second optical film assembly of the double-sided LCD has a size no larger than that needed to perform its function in respect of light beams propagating therethrough from the light guide plate to the second liquid crystal panel. Therefore, the double-sided LCD is cost-efficient.
US07705930B2 Liquid crystal display device with a backlight unit having a diffusion plate
A liquid crystal display device having a direct backlight which uses a high-bright light source achieves both of a high efficiency and thin uniformity. In a liquid crystal display device which includes a liquid crystal panel, and a backlight unit which is arranged on a side of the liquid crystal panel opposite to a display screen of the liquid crystal panel, the backlight unit includes a housing, a plurality of light sources arranged in the inside of the housing, and a diffusion plate which is arranged between the plurality of light sources and the liquid crystal panel, the diffusion plate includes a plurality of light blocking regions at positions corresponding to the plurality of respective light sources, and the light blocking region at a center portion of the housing and the light blocking region at an edge portion of the housing exhibits transmissivities different from each other.
US07705929B2 Liquid crystal display
A liquid crystal display device includes a liquid crystal display panel, a plurality of lamps for irradiating light onto the liquid crystal display panel, a cover bottom that houses the plurality of lamps, an inverter printed circuit board having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface with an insulation base layer between the first and second surfaces, wherein the second surface is adjacent to the cover bottom, a transformer on the first surface of the inverter printed circuit board, and a metal shielding pattern on the second surface of the inverter printed circuit board directly between the transformer and the cover bottom.
US07705923B2 Polarizer integrated with transparent conductive film, a touch panel integrated with the polarizer and a flat panel display integrated with the touch panel
A polarizer integrated with a transparent conductive film for a liquid crystal display includes a lower film an optical film and a transparent conductive film. A touch panel integrated with the polarizer is formed by attaching an upper sheet to the upper surface of the polarizer integrated with a transparent conductive film. A flat panel display with an integral type touch panel includes a touch panel integrated with the flat panel display having a lower polarizer, a liquid crystal display and an upper polarizer.
US07705921B2 Digital BTSC multi-channel TV sound decoder circuit, and decoder comprising same
A multi-channel TV sound signal decoding circuit for decoding multi-channel TV sound signals according to BTSC system specification, and a multi-channel TV sound decoder comprising such circuitry.
US07705919B2 Video processing device, video display device and video processing method therefor and program thereof
In the video processing device, a correction amount update determining unit determines whether to update a correction amount based on an input image obtained from an image input unit and when a cut point is detected or when the number of frames in a number of frames storing unit exceeds a fixed value, determines that update is required, and at this time, a correction amount obtaining unit obtains a new correction amount based on the input image. Then, if no cut point is detected, an amount of change of a correction amount in time is limited and the obtained result is recorded in a correction amount storing unit, and an image correcting unit conducts quality improving correction processing with respect to the input image based on a correction amount recorded in the correction amount storing unit and the image corrected is sent to an image output unit.
US07705914B2 Pull-down signal detection apparatus, pull-down signal detection method and progressive-scan conversion apparatus
A pull-down signal detection circuit includes an inter-field correlation determination unit configured to determine an inter-field correlation on the basis of a current field signal and a 1-field delay signal, and providing a determination result which indicates a “strong/middle/weak” level, an inter-frame correlation determination unit configured to determine an inter-frame correlation on the basis of the current field signal and a 2-field delay signal, and a pull-down signal determination unit configured to determine whether the input video signal is a pull-down signal or not, on the basis of the determination results of the inter-field correlation determination unit and the inter-frame correlation determination unit.
US07705911B2 Image pick-up apparatus and image pick-up system
An image pick-up apparatus comprising an area sensor in which detecting elements are two-dimensionally arranged on a substrate, and a reference supply circuit, for supplying a reference voltage to the detecting elements, which comprises a regulator for regulating the reference voltage. A low-pass filter is arranged between the regulator and the detecting elements. The reference voltage is supplied through the low-pass filter from the reference supply circuit.
US07705908B2 Imaging method and system for determining camera operating parameter
Methods are provided for determining an operating parameter for an image system. Evaluation images are obtained during composition of an archival image and the evaluation images are stored. The evaluation images are compared to determine common image elements and an area of importance is determined based at least in part upon some of the common image elements. An operating parameter is determined based upon analysis of the area of importance. Imaging systems that perform the methods are also provided.
US07705883B2 Systems and methods of anti-aliasing with image stabilizing subsystems for cameras
Systems and method for implementing anti-aliasing with image stabilizing subsystems for cameras are disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment the method may comprise characterizing motion of a camera, characterizing aliasing for an image being photographed by the camera, and moving at least one optical element in the camera during exposure of the image for both stabilizing and anti-aliasing the image.
US07705882B2 Device and system for enabling families to share in long haul truckers' travels
A portable hand-held device (20) has a camera (102) for use by a professional truck driver while on the road to allow pictures taken to be transmitted via a transceiver of the device through a cellular telephone network to an Internet site that is linked with the telephone network and that can be securely accessed via the Internet from a personal computer at the driver's home. Pictures from home can be uploaded to the site and when one is, an alert is issued to the driver. The device also includes a GPS (132) for enabling the site to display travel of the driver on a map.
US07705880B2 Device, system and method for encoding employing redundancy and switching capabilities
Device, system and method for encoding employing redundancy and switching are provided. For example, an encoder to convert analog data received from one or more video cameras into digital data for recording and possibly for live-monitoring is provided. The encoder may include an analog-to-digital converter and a redundancy unit capable of switching the analog data to a second encoder upon detecting a failure. The encoder may further include an internal matrix switcher to output the analog video data to a plurality of monitors for live monitoring.
US07705876B2 Stereoscopic image display
Stereoscopic image display is described. In an embodiment, a location of the eye pupils of a viewer is determined and tracked. An image is displayed within a first focus for viewing with the left eye of the viewer, and the image is displayed within a second focus for viewing with the right eye of the viewer. A positional change of the eye pupils is tracked and a sequential image that corresponds to the positional change of the eye pupils is generated for stereoscopic viewing. In another embodiment, an image is displayed for stereoscopic viewing and a head position of a viewer relative to a center of the displayed image is determined. A positional change of the viewer's head is tracked, and a sequential image that corresponds to the positional change of the viewer's head is generated for stereoscopic viewing.
US07705874B2 Lighting for video systems
A video system and method of operation are described that compensate for low-light conditions. The video system includes a light source that adjusts. In one example the light source is controlled to either shine more light upon the user's face or less dependent upon the ambient conditions. In another example, the color of the light is changed to improve image quality. The light source may also be directly or indirectly controlled by a switch mounted onto the video telephone. Various configurations of light sources may also be implemented into the video system.
US07705873B2 Image forming apparatus and multi-function device
An image forming apparatus, includes: an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording sheet; a casing that encloses the image forming unit and that has an ejection port configured to eject the recording sheet on which the image are formed; an ejection tray that stacks recording sheets ejected from the ejection port; a main frame side connector configured to electrically connect to an external device, the main frame side connector connectable to an external device side connector provided in the external device while at least a part of the external device is disposed outside the casing; and a supporting member that displaceably supports the main frame side connector with respect to the casing.
US07705872B2 Optical writing device and image forming apparatus
An optical writing device includes a dichroic mirror and a deflection beam splitter. The dichroic mirror causes a light beam to pass therethrough or reflect depending on the wavelengths of the light beam. The deflection beam splitter causes a light beam to pass therethrough or reflect depending on a direction from which the light beam is received.
US07705871B2 Optical writing device and image forming apparatus including the optical writing device that prevents scattered toner and powder dust from entering the optical writing device
An image forming apparatus includes an optical writing device. The optical writing device includes an optical writing unit that emits laser light beams toward image carriers, an outer case that accommodates the optical writing unit, and air supplying devices that supply air into the outer case. The outer case includes openings through which the laser light beams pass. Another image forming apparatus includes an optical writing device that emits laser light beams toward image carriers to form latent images thereon, partition members that are interposed between the image carriers and the optical writing device and that have openings elongating along a scanning direction of the optical writing device, and shutter mechanisms including shutter members to open and close the openings. The laser light beams are emitted from the optical writing device toward the image carriers through the openings.
US07705867B2 Apparatus for forming latent image using line head and control method for such apparatus
An apparatus includes: a latent image carrier which is freely rotatable in a predetermined sub scanning direction; a latent image carrier gear which is attached to an end portion of the latent image carrier; a drive motor which applies drive rotation force upon the latent image carrier via the latent image carrier gear and which rotates the latent image carrier; a line head which forms on the latent image carrier a line latent image which extends in a main scanning direction which is approximately orthogonal to the sub scanning direction; an exposure controller which provides an image signal to the line head and controls writing of the line latent image; a phase detector which detects the phase data regarding the latent image carrier gear; and a timing controller which adjusts the write location of the line latent image on the latent image carrier based on the phase data detected by the phase detector.
US07705863B2 Systems and methods for rendering building spaces
A method and system of rendering buildings in three-dimensional space first renders a respective floor, then adds objects and finally walls to bound each of the floors. The result, a three-dimensional rendering of a building, has translucent walls and illustrates the position of objects within the building in addition to presenting the overall shape of the building. The building can be rotated or enlarged to clarify the position of the various objects in space.
US07705854B2 Overlap density (OD) heatmaps and consensus data displays
Systems and methods that generate or provide overlap displays of multiple sets of data in a manner that advantageously simplifies trend visualization in large sets of data. A two-dimensional, three-dimensional, or greater-dimensional occurrence count array is generated for a plurality of similar data sets. Each element in the array is a number of times a corresponding vector of data values occurs in the plurality of N data sets, wherein each array element corresponds to a discrete interval of data values. Once the array has been generated, a graphical display of overlap density may be generated by comparing a desired degree of overlap with the value of each array element. Those array elements having values that satisfy the desired degree of overlap are rendered, as a display object, using one or more colors, shades and/or patterns representing varying degrees of overlap.
US07705848B2 Method of identifying semantic units in an electronic document
A method of identifying semantic units in an electronic document includes the steps of: providing an electronic document being described in a page description language, the document having at least one page having a plurality of text fragments, each text fragment including a plurality of glyphs that have not been identified as semantic units, the document further including geometric information and page description language parameters; determining strips of at least one glyph by comparing the geometric position of subsequent glyphs; determining zones of at least one strip wherein a zone is defined by the combined area of strips, the geometrical areas of which overlap with each other; determining a boundary between two semantic units in a zone based on the geometric properties of the glyphs; sorting the identified semantic units in the zone in a sorted list; and, combining subsequent semantic units in the sorted list according to geometric considerations.
US07705844B2 Image display device, portable terminal device, display panel and image display method using the same
A three-dimensional image/two-dimensional image display device includes a plurality of display pixels, and a lenticular lens for three-dimensional display. Each display pixel is consisted of M×N number of sub-pixels to be viewed from N view points. A pitch a of sub-pixels arranged in the longitudinal direction of ridge projection of the lenticular lens and a pitch b of the sub-pixels arranged in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the lenticular lens satisfy the following expression. The M×N number of sub-pixels included in each of said display pixels are formed within a square area. a:b=N:1
US07705843B2 Electric circuit, latch circuit, display apparatus and electronic equipment
In order to perform operations securely, a high potential power supply is connected to a gate electrode of a P-type TFT to which data signals are input. Similarly, a low potential power supply is connected to a gate electrode of an N-type TFT. Thus, a TFT to which data signals are input can be turned OFF during a non-operating period. Switch TFT's are provided between the high potential power supply and the P-type TFT and between the low potential power supply and the N-type TFT so as to turn the TFT OFF as required. Similarly, Switch TFT's are provided between a data signal input terminal and a P-type TFT and between a data signal input terminal and an N-type TFT such that a data signal can be input thereto as required. The switching is controlled by using a latch signal and an inverse latch signal. Therefore, a latch circuit without a level shifter can be produced which can operate with stability.
US07705842B2 Fast display initialization and light up
Described is a technology by which a computer display may quickly resume outputting video data following its awakening from a deep sleep state. Displayed settings are maintained in a memory, such as a memory of the display, while the display is in a sleep state. The settings are associated with a token maintained by a host computer system and display. Upon a need to awaken the display to output video data, the host computer system and the display communicate the token, whereby the display may confirm whether maintained settings are still valid for actual use with the host's video signals. If still valid, the display restores the maintained display settings as actual display settings. The restoring of previously maintained display settings is ordinarily significantly faster than conventional mechanisms that are presently used to configure a display upon wakeup, resulting in the user perceiving a near-instantaneous wakeup of a display.
US07705836B2 Touch panel device
A plurality of excitation elements are disposed on two facing sides of a quadrilateral detection range in a non-piezoelectric substrate, and a plurality of receiving elements are disposed on the other two sides of the detection range so as to face the excitation elements respectively. Surface acoustic waves are transmitted from the respective plurality of excitation elements in two diagonal directions of the detection range respectively, and the surface acoustic waves from the two diagonal directions are received by the respective receiving elements, so that a position of an object in contact with the substrate is detected based on received results in the receiving elements.
US07705830B2 System and method for packing multitouch gestures onto a hand
A multi-touch system is disclosed that compares finger arrangements at the beginning of multi-touch gestures and discriminates between neutral- and spread-hand performances. Gestures by the neutral- and spread-hand versions of each chord are then mapped to separate, but intuitively related cursor functions or sets of commands. Less-frequently performed functions and commands are typically assigned to the spread-hand chord, since spreading the hand from neutral takes deliberate effort. With these neutral and spread distinctions, a two-handed gesture set can be packed into a one-handed touch surface, or for two-handed touch surfaces, twice as many intuitively customizable gesture command sets can be accommodated.
US07705829B1 System and method for providing computer input
A system and method are directed to managing text input. An image of a virtual keyboard is displayed to a user. The user enters text by using the virtual keyboard image and an input device, such as a pointing device. The image is repeatedly altered, such as by position, size, angle, or shape. One technique includes altering the image after each selection of a virtual key is made. One aspect of the invention includes determining sensitive input fields within a page and facilitating the use of the virtual keyboard for those fields. The invention can be used to improve security when the possibility of keyboard sniffers exists.
US07705828B2 Dual-mode mobile communication device
A dual-mode mobile communication device is provided including a device housing having a front surface, a rear surface and a plurality of side surfaces coupling the front surface to the rear surface. The dual-mode device includes a transceiver for sending and receiving voice and data communications is integrated into the device housing, a display, mounted within the front surface of the device housing, for displaying information to a user of the device regarding voice and data communications, a QWERTY keyboard mounted below the display and within the front surface of the device housing, for generating data communications, and a microphone and a speaker for generating voice communications, wherein the microphone is mounted below the display within the front surface of the device housing and the speaker is mounted above the display within the front surface of the device housing.
US07705825B2 Method for measuring effective operation of gyricon display device
A method of making a gyricon display device, and a method of determining a monopole charge and a dipole charge of beads in a gyricon display device, is set forth. In the methods, a rectangular waveform switching voltage is applied to the gyricon display device and the reflectance of the display device is measured in order to determine the dipole charge based upon the measured reflectance, and a triangular waveform switching voltage is applied to the gyricon display device and current of the display device is measured to determine the monopole charge based upon the measured current.
US07705815B2 Backlight control unit and liquid crystal display device having the same
A backlight control unit for a liquid crystal display device includes a liquid crystal panel for displaying an image, a backlight for providing light to the liquid crystal panel, a gate driving unit and a data driving unit for driving the liquid crystal panel, a timing controller for outputting signals to control the gate driving unit and the data driving unit, and for outputting a dimming control signal to control a light output amount of the backlight according to representative gradation values obtained by analyzing red, green, and blue gradations included in inputted image data, and an inverter for controlling the backlight to control a light output amount from the backlight according to the dimming control signal outputted from the timing controller.
US07705802B2 Method for performing high-speed error diffusion and plasma display panel driving apparatus using the same
A method for diffusing errors in a display device. Each frame of an input video signal is separated into at least two independent subframes. An error diffusion process is applied to each subframe of at least two independent subframes. The errors transmitted reciprocally from subframes are partially mixed, and the error diffusion process is applied to the mixed errors at each independent subframe.
US07705799B2 Data processing device, data processing method, and electronic device
Provided is an electronic device including: a device main body that processes data; a display device arranged in the device main body to display the data; a first operation device arranged in the device main body on a display surface side of the display device within a movable range of fingers of a hand for holding the device main body; a second operation device arranged in the device main body on an opposite side of the display surface within the movable range of the fingers of the hand for holding the device main body; and a control circuit that causes, only when one of the first operation device and the second operation device is being operated, the other to function.
US07705796B2 Dual offset reflector system utilizing at least one gimbal mechanism
A dual offset reflector system is disclosed. The system comprises a main reflector, a subreflector, a first gimbal mechanism for positioning of the subreflector. The system includes at least two feeds for receiving beams from the main reflector and the subreflector. One of the feds is at a focal point of the system and the other beam is displaced from the focal point. Accordingly, a simple solution to restore antenna gain reduction and avoid beam distortion due to the scan loss for a reflector system is provided that utilizes multiple feeds at different frequencies and polarizations. By placing the feeds at focal point trajectory of the subreflector whose positioning is controlled by a gimbal mechanism, a system is provided that minimizes distant and scan loss in a dual reflector system. The gimbal mechanism positions the subreflector so that a desired feed is in the focal point of the subreflector.
US07705794B2 Vehicle-mounted communication antenna
A vehicle-mounted communication antenna to be mounted on a vehicle for performing communication by an electromagnetic wave, includes an antenna body having an antenna case and an antenna element contained in the antenna case, and an antenna cover for protecting the antenna body that can transmit the electromagnetic wave.
US07705792B2 Mobile wireless communications device comprising non-planar internal antenna without ground plane overlap
A mobile wireless communications device may include a housing, a main dielectric substrate carried by the housing, circuitry carried by the main dielectric substrate, and a ground plane conductor on the main dielectric substrate. The mobile wireless communications device may further include an L-shaped dielectric extension comprising a vertical portion extending outwardly from the main dielectric substrate and an overhang portion extending outwardly from the vertical portion and above an adjacent portion of the main dielectric layer. A main loop antenna conductor comprising at least one conductive trace may be relatively positioned on the overhang portion of the L-shaped dielectric extension so as not to overlap the ground plane conductor.
US07705780B1 Electronic support measures (ESM) tracking system and method
An ES tracker for tracking an emitter target, including ships and airborne targets, includes a sensor for receiving a signal emitted by the target; a sensor processor for processing the signal and outputting a measurement; and an information processor for processing the measurement. The information processor includes an IMM bearing filter having a mixing section for receiving the measurement and producing a mixed output signal; a first order Kalman filter for receiving the mixed output signal for stationary target tracking; a second order Kalman filter for receiving the mixed output signal and tracking bearing and bearing rate; and a third order Kalman filter for receiving the mixed output signal and tracking bearing, bearing rate, and bearing acceleration. The tracker may also include a second-order elevation filter for modeling and tracking elevation and elevation rate, and a first-order ESM parameters filter for adaptively estimating plant noise, modeling and tracking frequency, pulsewidth, and PRI of the emitter target.
US07705776B2 Mobile wireless communications device comprising a satellite positioning system antenna and electrically conductive director element therefor
A mobile wireless communications device may include a portable housing, at least one wireless transceiver carried by the portable housing, and a satellite positioning signal receiver carried by the portable housing. An antenna may also be carried by the portable housing and connected to the satellite positioning signal receiver. Further, at least one electrically conductive director element may be carried by the portable housing in spaced apart relation from the antenna and inductively coupled thereto for directing a beam pattern thereof.
US07705774B2 Method of providing celestial information and a mobile terminal having a function of providing the celestial information
A mobile terminal and a method of outputting celestial information using the terminal are disclosed. The mobile terminal includes a memory unit storing celestial information, an information acquiring unit acquiring terminal position information, terminal direction information including an azimuth and an altitude of the terminal, and time information, and an information processing unit searching the memory unit and outputting the celestial information corresponding to the position information, the direction information and the time information received from the information acquiring unit. It is possible to provide the celestial information of the sky located in a direction corresponding to the azimuth and the altitude of the terminal and to rapidly and conveniently find a celestial body a user wishes to observe.
US07705773B2 Self-calibrating a radar altimeter based on a simulated return signal
Systems and methods for performing self calibration of a radar altimeter. An example system includes a first component that generates a simulated return signal based on one or more range values. A transmitter generates a transmission radar signal and a receiver processes the simulated return signal based on the transmission radar signal. A second component determines one or more calibration factors based on the processed simulated return signal and ideal return signal characteristics. The transmission radar signal is a fixed frequency signal and the first component includes a programmable frequency divider that creates at least on sideband of a known signal. A third component determines if the radar system is in at least one of a calibration mode or normal mode of operation. If the radar system is determined to be in a normal mode of operation, a fourth component applies the determined calibration factors to actual radar return signals.
US07705764B2 Method of algorithmic analog-to-digital conversion and algorithmic analog-to-digital converter
Provided are a method of algorithmic analog-to-digital conversion and an algorithmic Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC). The algorithmic ADC includes a Multiplying Digital-to-Analog Converter (MDAC). The MDAC includes a Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) for converting a first digital signal into an analog signal, a subtractor for calculating a difference between the signal output from the DAC and an analog signal input from a first Sample and Hold Amplifier (SHA), an amplifier for amplifying the difference, a first capacitor unit connected with an output end of the first SHA and an input end of the amplifier through a first switching unit, a second capacitor unit connected with the input end and an output end of the amplifier through a second switching unit, and a third capacitor unit connected with the input end and the output end of the amplifier through a third switching unit.
US07705762B2 Voltage random access memory (VRAM)
An integrated circuit memory cell and voltage ladder design that adapts techniques typically applied to Static Random Access Memory (SRAM) circuits to implement a compact array of analog Voltage Random Access Memory (VRAM) locations. The memory cells in the VRAM each store a digital value that controls a corresponding switch. The switch couple a particular voltage from a set of voltages generated by the ladder, to be output when that location is enabled. Multiple analog output voltages are provided by simply providing additional rows of cells.
US07705757B2 Gain matching method and system for single bit gain ranging analog-to-digital converter
A gain matching method for a single bit gain ranging analog to digital converter including selecting, in response to a gain setting, a number of gain elements to be enabled in a multi-element gain controlled array interconnected between an analog input and an analog to digital converter, and patterning the enablement of the selected number of gain elements among the gain elements for matching the gain of the analog to digital converter for a range of gain settings of the converter to reduce in-band gain error due to gain element mismatch.
US07705753B2 Methods, systems and computer-readable media for compressing data
An approach is described for the compression of input data, and particularly one which is suited for providing a lossless method for compressing random input data. Both a compression algorithm is described, as well as a decompression algorithm for restoring the original uncompressed data. The decompression algorithm allows for its parameters to be adjusted to suit one's needs as they relate, for example, to the ratio of compression as a function of the decompression speed.
US07705751B2 Encoder
An encoder includes an encoder scale having an optical pattern of a prescribed cycle, and an encoder head configured to be displaced relative to the encoder scale. The encoder head includes a reference voltage generating circuit and a changing unit. The reference voltage generating circuit is configured to generate a reference voltage set to the center amplitude of an encoder signal when the output of the encoder is an encoder signal having periodicity of at least one phase. The changing unit is configured to change the reference voltage generated in the reference voltage generating circuit.
US07705749B2 Alert device
An alert device for a vehicle includes a communications receiver for receiving file fragments for the device, a positioning data receiver for providing vehicle location data, a microcontroller system including a microcontroller and a programmable non-volatile memory system, for building and storing application and data files from the fragments, and executing an alert application of the device by processing at least one application file and associated data identified by configuration instructions included in at least one of the fragments to provide alert data for the vehicle corresponding to the location of the vehicle determined by the application on the basis of the vehicle location data.
US07705747B2 Sensor networks for monitoring pipelines and power lines
A sensor network for monitoring utility power lines comprises a sensor disposed for monitoring utility power lines, the sensor capable of acquiring data related to the utility power lines and communicating sensor data; a first remote sensor interface (RSI) comprising a data communications device capable of receiving the sensor data communicated from the sensor, and transmitting data relating to the received sensor data; and a data communications device capable of receiving the data transmitted by the first RSI and transmitting data related to the sensor data directly or indirectly to a network external to the sensor network. The sensor network comprises a common designation network.
US07705740B2 Method and mobile terminal for gas detection warning
A method and a mobile terminal for gas detection warning are disclosed to solve the problem that people cannot detect gas by themselves due to the lack of a portable gas detecting apparatus. The mobile terminal is portable and typically includes a central control unit, a gas detection unit, a warning unit and a user interface unit. The apparatus performs a warning operation by using a warning policy corresponding to the detected air concentration by setting warning policies corresponding to a kind of gas in different concentration ranges respectively.
US07705739B2 Integrated airborne substance collection and detection system
A collection and detection system is directed to a combined system in which a detect to warn system is integrated with a detect to treat system. Such a combined system provides multi-levels of detection to determine the presence and identity of one or more different types of specific particles. In some applications, the combined system is configured to detect and identify one or more different types of specific biological particles such as toxins and pathogens. The combined system includes a first level detection device, in which the presence of one or more toxins and/or pathogens are detected, and a second level detection device. Upon detection by the first level detection device, the second level detection device performs a second level of detection in which the one or more toxins and/or pathogens are identified.
US07705738B2 Database apparatus, attention calling apparatus and driving support apparatus
An attention calling apparatus operates in the following manner. That is, eyes distribution pattern is generated from the behavior of the eyes of the vehicle driver captured by a camera in a predetermined time, and driver's condition is estimated based on the distribution pattern. Further, concentration of the driver on driving is estimated based on the comparison between the distribution pattern and the stored information of distribution pattern. When the distribution pattern indicates that the degree of concentration on driving is high, the driving operation is stored in storage in association with the concentration degree. When the operation situation fulfills a notification provision condition, driver's attention is called depending on the concentration degree.
US07705732B2 Authenticating an RF transaction using a transaction counter
A system and method for securing a Radio Frequency (RF) transaction using a RF identification device (RFID) transaction device is provided. RFID transaction device includes a transactions counter for tallying the number of transactions attempted or completed with the RFID transactions device. Counter value is used to create a RFID device authentication tag for use in validating the RFID device. A RFID reader, interacting with the RFID device, provides a random number to the RFID device which may be used in the RFID device authentication tag creation and validation. RFID reader may also use counter value and random number to create a RFID reader authentication key useful for validating RFID reader. RFID transaction device may include an encryption key for creating RFID transaction device authentication tag. Likewise, RFID reader may include a RFID reader encryption key for creating RFID reader authentication tag.
US07705724B2 Augmented security system
A system for augmenting security sensor accuracy and reduction of false alarm signals. The system includes the security sensor system along with an external sensor system for measuring the effect of environmental conditions on the security sensors and further includes a sensor data augmentation component to adjust the sensitivity of the security sensors according to measured environmental conditions. Weather sensors and video sensors are two preferred external sensor systems.
US07705723B2 Method and apparatus to provide outbreak notifications based on historical location data
A method and apparatus to collect user location data over time, correlating user location data with outbreak data. The method and apparatus further comprising an alert mechanism to indicate to a user if there was a potential exposure.
US07705713B2 Control unit having a deactivatable interface
A control unit having a microprocessor and at least one electronic memory for storing a program-controlled sequence control for a motor vehicle and a first electronic interface for transmitting the program code of the sequence control from an external data transmission device into the memory and also having a second electronic interface are provided. To prevent manipulation of the contents of the memory, the first electronic interface is irreversibly deactivated after its initial use.
US07705707B2 Bistable microelectronic switch stack
A stack for a bistable microelectronic switch. A porphyrin compound and a conductive polymer are sandwiched between two electrodes. The device exhibits a switching behavior at a certain voltage and can be used in arrays to form a memory device. When a first voltage is applied between the electrodes, the resistance across the two electrodes is very high, and when a increased voltage is applied, the resistance is generally two orders of magnitude lower. Copper phthalocyanine or 5, 10, 15, 20-tetrakis(4-methoxyphenyl)-21H, 23H-porphine cobalt(II) can be used as the bistable compound, and poly-(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) and poly-(styrenesulphonic acid) can be used as the conductive polymer.
US07705703B2 Signal distributing inductor
A signal distribution inductor is suitable to be adsorbed by a surface mounting technology (SMT) apparatus. The signal distribution inductor includes a base, a separated iron-core, and a plurality of induction coils. The separated iron-core includes a first induced body and a second induced body, wherein the first induced body and the second induced body are provided at the base. The first induced body and the second induced body are joined together to form a joining surface through which the signal distribution inductor is adsorbed by the SMT apparatus. In addition, the first induced body has a first through hole, and the second induced body has a second through hole. The induction coils are wound on the first induced body, the second induced body and the base through the first through hole, the second through hole.
US07705699B2 Collapsible contact switch
Embodiments of the invention describe a contact switch, which may include a bottom electrode structure including a bottom actuation electrode and a top electrode structure including a top actuation electrode and one or more stoppers able to maintain a predetermined gap between the top electrode and the bottom electrode when the switch is in a collapsed state.
US07705695B2 Composite via structures and filters in multilayer printed circuit boards
A composite via structure in a multilayer printed circuit board (PCB) and also compact and shielded filters formed by the use of composite via structures as building blocks are provided. The composite via structure consists of two functional parts. The first functional part is designed to form an interconnected circuit with low return and leakage losses between the first pad disposed at the one side of the PCB and the special pad serving for a connection to a planar transmission line. The second functional part of the composite via structure serves to form a shielded open- or short-circuited resonant length (stub) extended in the vertical direction from the special pad to the second pad disposed at the opposite side of the PCB.
US07705693B2 μ-Flap type nano/micro mechanical device and fabrication method thereof
A μ-flap type nano/micro mechanical device with a lower electrode 1, 1a, 1b, an upper electrode layer 2, an dielectric layer 3 arranged between the lower electrode 1, 1a, 1b and the upper layer 2, such that the dielectric layer 3 and said upper electrode layer 2 form a layered body 4, the layered body 4 comprising a horizontal recess 5 in a side portion of the dielectric layer 3, and an overhanging portion 6 of reduced thickness over the recess 5 that forms a gap 5a; such that the overhanging portion 6 forms a μ-flap 6a which extends over the gap 5a. The device is a capacitative-based device in which the mechanical motion can be measured at room temperature and without monolithic integration thereof with an integrated circuit but that can be easily integrated with complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) circuitry.
US07705681B2 Apparatus for coupling at least one of a plurality of amplified input signals to an output terminal using a directional coupler
An apparatus has an input terminal configured to receive an input signal, a network coupled to the input terminal and configured to provide a plurality of amplified input signals, and a directional coupler coupled to the network and configured to couple at least one of the plurality of amplified input signals to an output terminal.
US07705669B2 Preamplifier and method for calibrating offsets therein
A preamplifier includes cascade-connected amplifying circuits, and at least one of the cascade-connected amplifying circuits includes a differential switch pair circuit, a comparator and energy storing elements. The differential switch pair circuit has a pair of differential inputs and a pair of differential outputs. The comparator outputs a comparison signal by comparing the differential outputs. The energy storing elements are respectively and selectively coupled to one of the differential outputs based on the comparison signal to adjust potential of the differential outputs. A method for calibrating offsets in a preamplifier is also disclosed herein.
US07705662B2 Low voltage high-output-driving CMOS voltage reference with temperature compensation
A bandgap reference voltage generator has a first stage that generates a first current that is complementary-to-absolute-temperature (Ictat) and a second stage that generates a current that is proportional-to-absolute-temperature (Iptat). The Ictat and Iptat currents are both forced through a summing resistor to generate a voltage that is relatively independent of temperature, since the Ictat and Iptat currents cancel out each other's temperature dependencies. A PMOS output transistor drives current to an output load to maintain the load at the reference voltage. An op amp drives the gate of the PMOS output transistor and has inputs connected to emitters of PNP transistors in the second stage. A series of resistors generate the reference voltage between the PMOS output transistor and ground and drives bases of the PNP transistors and includes the summing resistor. Parasitic PNP transistors in an all-CMOS process are used. The generator operates with a 1-volt power supply.
US07705661B2 Current control apparatus applied to transistor
The present invention provides a current control apparatus applied to a transistor. The transistor has a control terminal, a first terminal, and a second terminal. The current control apparatus includes a current control module, a first current mirror module, a second current mirror module, a current subtractor, and a current adjusting module. The current control apparatus provided by the present invention can be applied to a bipolar junction transistor (BJT) to prevent temperature measurement errors from occurring when using a dual current mode temperature measurement method to measure the temperature of the BJT.
US07705656B2 Leakage current detection circuit and leakage current comparison circuit
A leakage current measurement circuit measuring a substrate leakage current and a gate leakage current in response to a variation in the size of an MOS transistor and a leakage current comparison circuit judging which one of the substrate leakage current and the gate leakage current is dominant. The leakage current measurement circuit includes a charge supply, a leakage current generator and a detection signal generator. The leakage current comparison circuit includes a charge supply, a leakage current comparator and a detection signal generator.
US07705639B1 Method and apparatus for high performance automatic frequency control in a wireless receiver
An apparatus and a method are disclosed wherein a clock generator component converts a received clock signal into a plurality of internal clock signals which are skewed in time, a phase difference component computes phase differences at subsequent clock phases of a received phase signal, an intermediate averaging component receives each phase difference signals and outputs their average, a threshold detection component detects steady phase changes and activates a preamble detect signal which is used to clock an output filter that smoothes the output from the intermediate averaging component. The output is a frequency correction signal that is used by a wireless receiver to correct its reception process. The disclosed invention merges the frequency correction process more quickly and accurately, is less likely to trigger on noise and has a lower packet error rate than conventional systems.
US07705636B2 Buffer circuit which occupies less area in a semiconductor device
The present invention relates to a buffer circuit of a semiconductor memory device, and includes a common bias supply unit and a plurality of interface units having a differential amplifying structure. Each interface unit receives an input signal and differentially amplifies the input signal and a common bias. The common bias supply unit is driven by a reference voltage to provide the common bias signal to each of the interface units. The buffer circuit makes it possible to reduce the area occupied by the buffer circuit in a semiconductor memory device.
US07705635B1 Circuit for converting a voltage range of a logic signal
In a circuit to convert a first logic signal having a first range to a second logic signal having a second range, a first metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) transistor selectively couples an output node to a first reference voltage when the output node is to be in a first state. A source-follower circuit includes a current source and a source follower output, and the source follower output is coupled to the output node. A second MOS transistor selectively couples the source-follower circuit to a second reference voltage when the output node is to be in the second state.
US07705628B1 Programmable logic device having logic elements with dedicated hardware to configure look up tables as registers
A programmable logic device architecture having logic elements with dedicated hardware to configure the look up tables of the logic element to either perform logic functions or to operate as a register for pipelining or other purposes. The programmable logic device includes a general interconnect and a plurality of logic array blocks interconnected by the general interconnect. Each of the plurality of logic blocks further includes one or more logic elements. The logic elements each include a first look up table, a second look up table, and dedicated hardware within the logic element to configure the first look table and the second look up table as a register without having to use the general interconnect. In one embodiment, the dedicated hardware includes a plurality of dedicated interconnects within the logic element to configure the two look up tables as a pair of cross coupled muxes or latches when configured as a register.
US07705626B2 Design structure to eliminate step response power supply perturbation
A design structure for eliminating step response power supply perturbation during voltage island power-up/power-down on an integrated circuit is disclosed. An IC chip communicates with a primary power supply and includes at least one voltage island. A primary header on the voltage island of the chip communicates with the primary power supply via a primary header power path. A secondary header on the voltage island of the chip communicates with a secondary power supply via a secondary header power path. A control decoder communicating with the IC chip and the voltage island regulates the state of the primary and secondary headers.
US07705625B2 Source transistor configurations and control methods
Source transistor configurations are described for reducing leakage and delay within integrated circuits. Virtual power and ground nodes are supported with the use of stacked transistor configurations, such as a two transistor stack between a first virtual supply connection and VSS, and a second virtual supply connection and VDD. Gate drives of these stacked transistors are modulated with different voltage levels in response to the operating power mode of the circuit, for example active mode, active-standby mode, and deep power-down mode. Means for driving these source stacks are described. In one embodiment separate virtual nodes are adapted for different types of circuits, such as buffers, row address strobe, and column address strobe. Other techniques, such as directional placement of the transistors is also described.
US07705612B2 Capacitance type sensor
A capacitance type sensor good in operability and less in erroneous operation is provided. Switches SW1 to SW4 are formed between a displacement electrode 40 and switch electrodes E11 to E14 kept at a predetermined potential and grounded switch electrodes E15 to E18. Switches SW 11 to SW 15 are connected to respective capacitance electrodes E1 to E5 that cooperate with the displacement electrode 40 to form capacitance elements. A decision circuit judges states of the switches SW1 to SW4. When at least one of the switches SW1 to SW4 is off, periodic signals are input only to the capacitance electrodes E1 to E4 corresponding to X- and Y-axial directions. When any of the switches SW1 to SW4 is on, a periodic signal is input only to the capacitance electrode E5 corresponding to a Z-axial direction.
US07705605B2 Voltage detecting apparatus
A voltage detecting apparatus for detecting a voltage of a direct current power source by using a capacitor, which can process an abnormal voltage without elongation of measuring time. When a voltage between both terminals of the capacitor is greater than a maximum voltage in normal condition, a micro-computer discharges the capacitor through a third switch and a fourth switch to earth until the voltage between both terminals of the capacitor reduces to be not larger than a voltage corresponding to a maximum rated current of a reset switch. When the voltage between both terminals reaches to be not larger than the voltage corresponding to the maximum rated current, the capacitor is rapidly discharged through the reset switch by controlling the reset switch to be closed.
US07705603B2 Sensor device for conductivity measurement and method for its operation
A sensor device for insertion into a water channel in a washing machine is provided with two electrodes as sensors on a sensor carrier. These electrodes are in direct contact with the water through apertures. The electrodes are connected to a transformer on the sensor carrier directly and without any further components or couplings being required. The other side of the transformer is connected to an activating and evaluating means, in particular to a microprocessor positioned on the same carrier.
US07705596B2 System and method for minimizing MRI-imaging artifacts
Methods of, and systems for, simultaneously compensating for external-magnetic-field inhomogeneity as well as radiofrequency magnetic-field inhomogeneity in an MRI system. In one method embodiment, a pulse sequence is applied when the transmitter-reference frequency is delivered on resonance. The pulse sequence includes radiofrequency pulses which may be applied at arbitrary-excitation-flip angles that are not necessarily 90° degrees. The pulse sequence also includes spin-locking pulses applied in concert with a refocusing-composite pulse. In another method embodiment, a pulse sequence is applied when the transmitter-reference frequency is delivered off resonance. This off-resonance-pulse sequence includes radiofrequency pulses which may be applied at arbitrary-excitation-flip angles that are not necessarily 90° degrees. Sandwiched between the excitation-flip angles are at least two off-resonance-spin-lock pulses applied at an inverse phase and frequency from each other.
US07705587B2 Irregular saturated pole position sensor
According to the invention, the position sensor is characterized in that the correction means (3) are achieved by at least one saturated magnetic pole, a so-called stabilization pole (Ps), having a sign opposite to the sign of the irregular pole (Pi) which is also saturated, each stabilization pole (Ps) extending from one to the other edge of the magnetic ring, by being inserted in the irregular pole, so as to stabilize the magnetic signal delivered by the passage of the poles adjacent to the irregular pole, said magnetic signal delivered between the passage of the adjacent poles not passing through the zero value.
US07705584B2 Magnetic sensor
The magnetic sensor in the invention is arranged to detect a change of magnetic field caused by a movement of the magnetic movable by a magnetic sensor element arranged with a gap to the magnetic movable, to convert the detected change of magnetic field by first and second bridge circuits into electric signals, to generate first and second rectangular-wave signals by first and second comparator circuits depending upon the electric signals, and to form a signal having at least four levels by a signal forming circuit, thereby detecting a moving direction of the magnetic movable depending upon a level-change order in the signal. This makes it possible to detect a rotating direction of the magnetic movable rapidly and correctly.
US07705572B2 Power supply device and projection apparatus using the same
A projection apparatus comprises a projection control unit, power supply device and fan. The projection control unit generates an image beam. The power supply device comprises a filter and voltage driving unit. The voltage driving unit is coupled to the filter and comprises a voltage-regulation feedback unit and current amplification component. The filter receives a PWM signal and accordingly outputting a first DC voltage. The voltage-regulation feedback unit receives the first DC voltage and outputs a second DC voltage. The current amplification component is coupled to the voltage-regulation feedback unit for receiving an operational voltage and the second DC voltage, current-amplifying the second DC voltage, and accordingly outputting a driving voltage, which is fed back to the voltage-regulation feedback unit. The voltage-regulation feedback unit regulates the driving voltage according to the first DC voltage. The fan receives the driving voltage for releasing heat of the projection control unit.
US07705565B2 Method and system for wireless charging
The invention concerns a system (100) and method (300) for charging a battery. The method includes the steps of supplying (312) a charging current to a battery (110), sensing (314) the charging current to the battery and selectively signaling (316) an electronic device (118) from the battery to indicate at least one parameter of the battery as the battery is receiving the charging current. As an example, the charging current can be from a wireless charger (116). In addition, the parameter can be, for example, a charging state of the battery or a predetermined current threshold of the charging current.
US07705558B2 In situ rechargeable battery and charging stand
A secondary button cell battery that is particularly suited for use in hearing aid appliances, and an associated charging station. Recharging is accomplished without direct conductive connection between the source of the energy and either the battery or its appliance. Radio frequency energy is harvested in an enclosed chamber in a charging station and applied to the recharging of the button cell. Such energy is harvested by the use of one or more energy harvesting diodes connected in parallel with the battery. Multiple diodes connected in parallel or serial may be used to adjust charging current or voltage or both. Charge control is provided by directly or indirectly detecting the level of charge on the cell. Where the associated appliance is a hearing aid, the charge level detection may be accomplished acoustically by determining the characteristics of the sound emitted by the hearing aid, and charging is accomplished with the cell within the hearing aid appliance.
US07705552B2 Robotic system
A robotic system is provided that enables easy manipulation and various operations. A walking operation allocated to a manipulated switch operation section is performed. Meanwhile, the right ankle roll axis control motor, the left ankle roll axis control motor, right hip joint roll axis control motor, and the left hip joint roll axis control motor are driven according to the operation amount of a manipulated analog operation section. Thus, the barycentric position of the robot is shifted to change the traveling direction of walking.
US07705547B2 High-side current sense hysteretic LED controller
Systems and methods for hysteretically controlling Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) when the input voltage is greater than or equal to 18 volts. An example system includes one or more LEDs and a circuit electrically coupled to the one or more LEDs. The circuit hysteretically controls an input voltage supplied to the one or more LEDs based on a sensed electric current that passes through the LEDs. The circuit includes a MOSFET switch for switching on and off the input voltage supplied to the one or more LEDs, a current sensing subcircuit including a first integrated circuit (IC) for sensing the current flowing through the one or more LEDs, a hysteretic comparator circuit including a second IC for generating a hysteretic control signal based on the sensed current, and a switch driver including a third IC for controlling operation of the switch based on the generated hysteretic control signal.
US07705545B2 Backlight unit
Backlight unit comprising a supply source (4), a discharge lamp (2) having a tubular discharge vessel (6) with an ionizable filling, three or more electrodes (8, 10, 12) arranged in a row along and external of the vessel at spaced relation to each other. The supply source comprises lamp drivers (14, 16) and data processing means (18). Each pair of different pairs of electrodes is coupled to a corresponding lamp driver. Each lamp driver is suitable to supply a high frequency supply voltage to the pair of electrodes to which the lamp driver is coupled. The data processing means is suitable to process input display data (D) and to control the lamp drivers such that their supplied supply voltages are dependent on the input display data.
US07705538B2 High-pressure discharge lamp
A high-pressure discharge lamp includes a quartz glass discharge chamber (1) having at least one end (11) provided with a molybdenum film sealing element (2) and at least one electrode (4) which is connected to the sealing element (2) and is protruded in the lower chamber (10) of the discharge chamber (1), wherein the lamp includes a spiral (5) whose slope is equal to or greater than 600% and which encompasses the part of the electrode (4) in the end (11) area provided with the sealing element (2) of the discharge chamber (1) outside of the sealing element (2).
US07705532B2 Dual plate type organic electroluminescent device and method of fabricating the same
An organic electroluminescent display device includes first and second substrates facing and spaced apart from each other. A first electrode resides on the first substrate and a separator having dual-layer, reciprocal L-shaped pattern resides on the first electrode. An organic emitting layer having a first thickness resides on the first electrode in a sub-pixel region and a second electrode resides on the organic emitting layer. An array element layer resides on the second substrate, the array element layer including a thin film transistor. A connection pattern electrically connects the second electrode and the thin film transistor.
US07705531B2 Organic electroluminescent display device with a light shielding member arranged on an end wall face of a periphery of the substrate
In an organic electroluminescent display device having light emitting layers which are independently controlled and emit light formed in respective pixel regions on a principal surface of a substrate and emitting light from each of the light emitting layer through the substrate, the present invention arranges a light shielding member on an end wall face of the substrate and prevents the light from leaking from the end wall face thereof.
US07705525B2 Multi-layer piezoelectric element and method for manufacturing the same
A multi-layer piezoelectric element having high durability which allows it to increase the amount of displacement of a piezoelectric actuator under high voltage and high pressure and does not undergo a change in the amount of displacement during continuous operation in a high electric field and under a high pressure over a long time period is provided.The multi-layer piezoelectric element comprises a stack of at least one piezoelectric layer and a plurality of internal electrodes consisting of first and second internal electrodes placed one on another, a first external electrode formed on a first side face of the stack and connected to the first internal electrode and a second external electrode formed on a second side face of the stack and connected to the second internal electrode, wherein the bonding strength between the piezoelectric layer and the internal electrode is weaker than the bending strength of the piezoelectric layer.
US07705517B1 Ultrasound transmitter
A system and method for providing a high voltage ultrasonic drive signal from an ultrasound transmitter are disclosed herein. An ultrasound transmitter includes a first plurality of drive transistors. A bias network is coupled to at least one transistor of the first plurality of drive transistors. A first switch is coupled to the bias network. The first switch selectively connects a first voltage to the bias network. The first switch is closed when generating an ultrasonic drive signal. The first switch is open when the transmitter is not generating an ultrasonic drive signal.
US07705516B2 Drive unit
It is provided a drive unit 1 in which the displacement amount of the frictional engagement member 7 can be reduced without lowering the driving torque, having a drive circuit 4 comprised of a bridge circuit which includes charge switching elements Q1, Q3 for connecting the electrodes 5a, 5b of the piezoelectric element 5 to the power supply 2 and discharge switching elements Q2, Q4 for connecting the electrodes 5a, 5b to ground, and a switch circuit 9 for inserting a limiting resistor R2 in at least either one of an current path between the power supply 2 and the piezoelectric element 5 and an current path between the piezoelectric element 5 and the ground.
US07705509B2 Dynamoelectric stator core and method for manufacture thereof
A core assembly is manufactured by punching core segments at a predetermined pitch in a short-side direction thereof with long sides aligned in a width direction of a rolled steel plate, the long sides of the core segments having lengths that are half a length of a long side of the core assembly; preparing four (two first and two second) laminated core sections by aligning punching directions of the core segments and laminating the core segments to a thickness that is half a laminated thickness of the core assembly; preparing two core subassemblies by inverting the second laminated core sections and laminating them onto the first laminated core sections such that the punching directions of the core segments are in opposite directions; and preparing the core assembly by arranging the two core subassemblies in a longitudinal direction and integrating them by joining.
US07705507B2 Electrical machine having a three-phase winding system
The electrical machine has a stator, which comprises thirty-six slots and thirty-six teeth with an alternating sequence and a winding system (10) which is arranged at least partially in the slots and has three winding phases (34, 35, 36). The winding system (10) contains in total eighteen coil elements (11-28), which are laid in each case two slots, with the result that a slot associated with another of the coil elements (11, 12, 16, 17, 18, 22, 23, 24, 28) is located between the two slots associated with one of the coil elements (13, 14, 15, 19, 20, 21, 25, 26, 27). In each case two of the coil elements (11-28) form one of nine interwound groups of coil elements (29), wherein, of the four adjacent slots belonging to a group of coil elements (29), the first and the third slot are associated with one coil element (13, 14, 15, 19, 20, 21, 25, 26, 27), and the second and the fourth slot are associated with the other coil element (11, 12, 16, 17, 18, 22, 23, 24, 28) in this group of coil elements (29). The two coil elements (11-28) of each group of coil elements (29) are associated with in each case two different winding phases (34, 35, 36). In each case one substantially unwound tooth (30) is provided between two adjacent groups of coil elements (29).
US07705504B2 Embedded magnet type motor
A rotor of an embedded magnet type motor has a plurality of magnets forming magnetic poles, the number of which is represented by P. A rotor core includes first accommodation holes, the number of which is represented by P/2, extending in a radial direction, and V-shaped accommodation holes, the number of which is represented by P/2, having a V shape protruding outward in a radial direction. The first accommodation holes and the V-shaped accommodation holes are alternately arranged in a circumferential direction. The V-shaped accommodation holes include a second accommodation hole and a third accommodation hole corresponding to two straight lines forming the V shape. The first accommodation hole is adjacent to the second accommodation hole at one side in the circumferential direction, and is adjacent to the third accommodation hole at the other side. A plurality of magnets include a first magnet arranged in the first accommodation hole, a second magnet arranged in the second accommodation hole, and a third magnet arranged in the third accommodation hole. The first magnet and the second magnet form one magnetic pole. The first magnet and the third magnet form another magnet pole. Accordingly, it is possible to achieve a high torque while suppressing an increase of the number of parts of the embedded magnet type motor.
US07705503B2 Rotating electrical machine
Included are a ring-shaped stator and a ring-shaped rotor arranged inside the stator; the stator includes a stator core with armature windings; the rotor includes a rotor core in which a plurality of permanent magnets are inserted and cooling holes are formed, a coolant flowing in each of the cooling holes; and each of the cooling holes is formed so as to have a sectional view which is a convex toward the outer periphery thereof.
US07705501B2 Common construction of coaxial I/O dual electro-mechanical units
A common construction is made up of two rotation parts each including a revolving electro-mechanical unit arranged in parallel and an output of both rotation parts being made coaxial by means of a transmission disposed on each side of the common construction, the construction being arranged between two wheels to mitigate the impacts when wheels on either side are subject to force.
US07705499B2 Device for maintaining the position of a rotatably or displaceably mounted shaft
Device for maintaining the position of a rotatably or displaceably mounted shaft, particularly an armature shaft (11) of an electric motor (9), wherein a gripping body (26) is arranged around the shaft (11), and said gripping body is impinged upon by a force (54, 56) in order to form a friction closure between the gripping body (26) and the surface (44) of the shaft (11), wherein the force (54, 56) for maintaining the position is provided by an actively actuated control member (30, 62, 70, 80) that is connected at least to one end (38, 40, 74) of the gripping body (26).
US07705496B2 Housing for an electrical machine
The housing of an electrical machine should, despite efficient cooling, be provided with a more compact design. To this end, the invention provides that the cooling ducts (2) of a housing (1), which is preferably provided in the form of an aluminum extruded profile, are left open toward the inside. The inner walls of the cooling ducts (2) are then formed by an inserted stator pack (4). This enables the corner areas of the housing to be kept free for assembly and the reduction of material for manufacturing the housing (1). In addition, due to the open cooling air ducts (2), thin wall thicknesses in the profile and thus small motor dimensions while simultaneously having a large cooling duct cross-section can be realized.
US07705493B2 Magnetic mirror air bearing for Michelson interferometer with lateral motion
The invention claimed is a novel magnetic mirror air bearing for a Michelson interferometer with lateral motion. A precise kinematic mount is used in combination with magnetic fields wherein current can be applied on a centerline to move a piston and mirror laterally without pitch and yaw so as to effect accurate light beam reflection regardless of distance of lateral movement within a defined space. The assembly is able to operate across extended temperature ranges by utilizing materials which expand and contract at similar rates, and contains a thermalizing cavity which will thermalize the gas to avoid temperature induced artifacts.
US07705491B2 Apparatus, system, and method for automatically displacing a faulty in-use battery in a battery-powered electric equipment
An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for automatically displacing a faulty in-use member battery in an electric equipment, such as electric vehicle, powered by an array of member batteries configured to self detect battery fault conditions and output a control signal upon such detection. By use of a charged spare battery and deactivated single pole double throw relay switches with activation means for coupling all batteries, member batteries are normally interconnected in series electrically to provide a predetermined voltage, with the spare battery standing by. While the electric equipment is in operation, as soon as a member battery detects a fault, the corresponding relay switch is activated to cause the faulty member battery to be electrically bypassed by the battery array. Concurrently, the spare relay switch is activated to electrically connect the spare battery to the battery array in series, thereby displacing the faulty in-use member battery.
US07705487B2 Power restoration system for electrical power network
A robust power restoration method is described. The method involves establishing a set of virtual paths within a mesh network having at least two sources of electrical power. Each of the virtual paths is used to determine a suitable location for a non-conducting electrical bridge. When a fault is detected within the network, the state of the electrical bridges is modified to restore power.
US07705473B2 Methods and apparatus for determining pad height for a wire-bonding operation in an integrated circuit
An integrated circuit having an integrated circuit die and at least one height-sensing pad disposed on a top surface of the integrated circuit die and electrically isolated from the die circuitry. At least one bond pad is disposed on a top surface of the integrated circuit die and electrically connected to the die circuitry. The at least one bond pad is configured for wire-bonding to a lead of a leadframe utilizing a height coordinate of the at least one height-sensing pad.
US07705466B2 Three dimensional multi layer memory and control logic integrated circuit structure
A Three-Dimensional Structure (3DS) Memory allows for physical separation of the memory circuits and the control logic circuit onto different layers such that each layer may be separately optimized. One control logic circuit suffices for several memory circuits, reducing cost. Fabrication of 3DS memory involves thinning of the memory circuit to less than 50 μm in thickness and bonding the circuit to a circuit stack while still in wafer substrate form. Fine-grain high density inter-layer vertical bus connections are used. The 3DS memory manufacturing method enables several performance and physical size efficiencies, and is implemented with established semiconductor processing techniques.
US07705461B2 Structure of tag integrated circuit flexible board
A structure of a tag integrated circuit flexible board includes a base material, one surface thereof having an adhesive layer; and a plurality of integrated circuit flexible boards that are arranged adjacent to one another and adhered on the adhesive layer of the base material. The integrated circuit flexible board includes an insulating heat-conductive material, and a conductive circuit layer provided on a surface of the insulating heat-conductive material and formed of a plurality of sections of circuits.
US07705458B2 Bulk metallic glass solders, foamed bulk metallic glass solders, foamed-solder bond pads in chip packages, methods of assembling same, and systems containing same
A foamed bulk metallic glass electrical connection is formed on a substrate of an integrated circuit package. The foamed bulk metallic glass electrical connection exhibits a low modulus that resists cracking during shock and dynamic loading. The foamed bulk metallic glass electrical connection is used as a solder bump for communication between an integrated circuit device and external structures. A process of forming the foamed bulk metallic glass electrical connection includes mixing bulk metallic glass with a blowing agent.
US07705456B2 Semiconductor package substrate
A semiconductor package substrate includes a main body with a surface having a first circuit layer thereon and a dielectric layer covering the first circuit layer, with a plurality of vias on a portion of the first circuit layer; a plurality of first conductive vias disposed in the vias; a plurality of first electrically connecting pads on the first conductive vias and completely exposed on the dielectric layer having no extending circuits for a semiconductor chip to be mounted thereon, the first electrically connecting pad being electrically connected to the first circuit layer of the first conductive via; and an insulating protective layer disposed on the main body with an opening for completely exposing the first electrically connecting pads, whereby the circuit layout density is increased without disposing circuits between the electrically connecting pads.
US07705455B2 Semiconductor device
A deep isolation trench extending from the main surface of a substrate to a desired depth is formed on the substrate with an insulating film in buried in it to form a through isolation portion. Subsequently, after a MOSFET is formed on the main surface of the substrate, an interlayer insulating film is deposited on the main surface of the substrate. Then, a deep conduction trench extending from the upper surface of the interlayer insulating film to a depth within the thickness of the substrate is formed in a region surrounded by the through isolation portion. Subsequently, a conductive film is buried in the deep conduction trench to form through interconnect portion. Then, after the undersurface of the substrate is ground and polished to an extent not to expose the through isolation portion and the through interconnect portion, wet etching is performed to an extent to expose parts of the lower portion of each of the through isolation portion and the through interconnect portion.
US07705445B2 Semiconductor package with low and high-speed signal paths
The semiconductor package includes two electrical contacts and a semiconductor device coupled to opposing sides of a substrate. The substrate defines at least one via extending at least partially there through. The semiconductor device includes a semiconductor low-speed interface electrically coupled to one of the electrical contacts through the via, and a semiconductor high-speed interface electrically coupled to flexible tape. The flexible tape is also electrically coupled to the other one of the electrical contacts.
US07705438B2 Electronic component and leadframe for producing the component
An electronic component includes a semiconductor chip and a leadframe. The leadframe includes a metal coating pattern on its underside to facilitate the application of solder to the electronic component. The metal coating pattern includes wetting regions that are wettable with solder material and anti-wetting regions that are unwettable with solder material, and the electronic component includes solder deposits formed on the wetting regions on the underside of the component.
US07705429B2 Epitaxial semiconductor layer and method
A method for epitaxially forming a first semiconductor structure attached to a second semiconductor structure is provided. Devices and methods described include advantages such as reduced lattice mismatch at an epitaxial interface between two different semiconductor materials. One advantageous application of such an interface includes an electrical-optical communication structure. Methods such as deposition of layers at an elevated temperature provide easy formation of semiconductor structures with a modified lattice constant that permits an improved epitaxial interface.
US07705428B2 Varactor
A varactor on a substrate is provided. The varactor comprises a bottom electrode, an upper electrode, a first dielectric layer and a conductive layer. The bottom electrode has several doped regions arranged in the substrate as an array with several rows and several columns, wherein the doped regions in adjacent columns are arranged alternatively. The upper electrode is located over the substrate and the upper electrode is composed of several electrode locations and has several openings, wherein each opening exposes the corresponding doped region. Furthermore, each electrode location is surrounded by three doped regions. The first dielectric layer is located between the substrate and the upper electrode. The conductive layer is located over the upper electrode, wherein the conductive layer and the upper electrode are isolated from each other and the conductive layer and the doped regions are electrically connected to each other.
US07705425B2 Solid-state high power device and method
A high-power solid-state transistor structure comprised of a plurality of emitter or gate fingers arranged in a uniform or non-uniform manner to provide improved high power performance is disclosed. Each of the fingers is associated with a corresponding one of a plurality of sub-cells. In an exemplary embodiment, the fingers may be arranged in a 1-D or 2-D form having a “hollow-center” layout where one or more elongated emitter fingers or subcells are left out during design or disconnected during manufacture. In another exemplary embodiment, the fingers may be arranged in a 1-D or 2-D form having one or more “arc-shaped” rows that includes one or more elongated emitter fingers or subcells. The structure can be practically implemented and the absolute thermal stability can be maintained for very high power transistors with reduced adverse effects due to random variation in the manufacturing and design process.
US07705422B2 Semiconductor device including metal-insulator-metal capacitor arrangement
A semiconductor device has a semiconductor substrate, a multi-layered wiring construction formed over the semiconductor device, and a metal-insulator-metal (MIM) capacitor arrangement established in the multi-layered wiring construction. The MIM capacitor arrangement includes first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth electrode structures, which are arranged in order in parallel with each other at regular intervals. The first, second, fifth and sixth electrode structures are electrically connected to each other so as to define a first capacitor, and the third and fourth electrode structures are electrically connected to each other so as to define a second capacitor.
US07705409B2 High voltage transistors
Some embodiments of the present invention provide high voltage transistors including a semiconductor substrate and a device isolation film defining an active region in the semiconductor substrate. A gate electrode extends along a central portion of the active region while maintaining a predetermined width on the semiconductor substrate. A second well is formed on both sides of the gate electrode in the semiconductor substrate, and partially extends to a bottom surface of the device isolation film. The active region in the semiconductor substrate comprises a first active region disposed under the gate electrode, and separating the device isolation film and a second active region defined by the first active region and the device isolation film. Methods of manufacturing high voltage transistors are also provided.
US07705407B2 High voltage semicondutor transistor device having small size and long electron flow path
Embodiments relate to a high voltage semiconductor device. The device includes a substrate having impurities of a first conductivity and having a first surface and a second surface, a gate electrode over the first surface, an LDD region having low concentration impurities of a second conductivity doped in the substrate at a first side of the gate electrode, a drain region having high concentration impurities of the second conductivity doped in the LDD region, a source region having high concentration impurities of the second conductivity doped in the substrate at a second side of the gate electrode, and spacers formed at sidewalls of the gate electrode. The first surface is higher than the second surface, and the source and LDD regions are at least partially formed in a region at the second surface. A bottom side of one of the spacers directly contacts the LLD region.
US07705404B2 Electrostatic discharge protection device and layout thereof
An electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection device and a layout thereof are provided. A bias conducting wire is mainly used to couple each base of a plurality of parasitic transistors inside ESD elements together, in order to simultaneously trigger all the parasitic transistors to bypass the ESD current, avoid the elements of a core circuit being damaged, and solve the non-uniform problem of bypassing the ESD current when ESD occurs. Furthermore, in the ESD protection layout, it only needs to add another doped region on a substrate neighboring to, but not contacting, doped regions of the ESD protection elements and use contacts to connect the added doped region, so as to couple each base of the parasitic transistors together without requiring for additional layout area.
US07705401B2 Semiconductor device including a fin-channel recess-gate MISFET
A fin-channel recess-gate MISFET has a fin channel including a first portion configured by a portion of a silicon substrate and a second portion configured by a pair of silicon layers selectively grown on the silicon substrate. The first portion is disposed below the recess of the recess gate and above an isolation film of a STI structure formed on the silicon substrate. The second portion is disposed above the recess of the recess gate.
US07705399B2 Semiconductor device with field insulation film formed therein
The invention provides a high voltage MOS transistor having a high gate breakdown voltage and a high source/drain breakdown voltage and having a low on-resistance. A gate electrode is formed on an epitaxial silicon layer with a LOCOS film being interposed therebetween. A P-type first drift layer is formed on the left side of the LOCOS film, and a P+-type source layer is disposed on the surface of the epitaxial silicon layer on the right side of the LOCOS film, being opposed to the first drift layer over the gate electrode. A P-type second drift layer is formed by being diffused in the epitaxial silicon layer deeper than the first drift layer, extending from under the first drift layer to under the left side of the LOCOS film. A recess is formed in a bottom portion of the second drift layer under the left end of the LOCOS film.
US07705397B2 Devices, methods, and systems with MOS-gated trench-to-trench lateral current flow
A DMOS transistor is fabricated with its source/body/deep body regions formed on the walls of a first set of trenches, and its drain regions formed on the walls of a different set of trenches. A gate region that is formed in a yet another set of trenches can be biased to allow carriers to flow from the source to the drain. Lateral current low from source/body regions on trench walls increases the active channel perimeter to a value well above the amount that would be present if the device was fabricated on just the surface of the wafer. Masking is avoided while open trenches are present. A transistor with a very low on-resistance per unit area is obtained.
US07705395B2 Flash memory cell and method of manufacturing the same and programming/erasing reading method of flash memory cell
Disclosed is a flash memory cell and method of manufacturing the same, and programming/erasing/reading method thereof. The flash memory cell comprises a first tunnel oxide film formed at a given region of a semiconductor substrate, a first floating gate formed on the first tunnel oxide film, a second tunnel oxide film formed over the semiconductor substrate and along one sidewall of the first floating gate, a second floating gate isolated from the first floating gate while contacting the second tunnel oxide film, a dielectric film formed on the first floating gate and the second floating gate, a control gate formed on the dielectric film, a first junction region formed in the semiconductor substrate below one side of the second tunnel oxide film, and a second junction region formed in the semiconductor substrate below one side of the first tunnel oxide film. Therefore, the present invention can implement 2-bit cell or 3-bit cell of a high density using the existing process technology. Further, it can reduce the manufacture cost and implement a high-integrated flash memory cell that is advantageous than a conventional flash memory cell in view of charge storage/retention as well as programming time.
US07705387B2 Non-volatile memory with local boosting control implant
A substrate of a non-volatile storage system includes selected regions in which additional ions are deeply implanted during the fabrication process. NAND strings are formed over the selected regions such that end word lines of the NAND strings are over the deeply implanted ions. The presence of the deeply implanted ions below the end word lines increases a channel capacitance of the substrate under the end word lines. Due to the increased capacitance, boosting of a channel in the substrate below the end word lines is reduced, thereby reducing the occurrence of gate induced drain leakage (GIDL) and band-to-band tunneling (BTBT) and, consequently, program disturb. A shallow ion implantation may also be made to set a threshold voltage of storage elements of the NAND string.
US07705379B2 Field effect transistor and solid state image pickup device
A solid-state image pickup device improves the linearity of signal S1 and increases the saturation level in a solid-state image pickup device with an expanded dynamic range, and a field effect transistor used in the solid-state image pickup device. For the field effect transistor, gate electrode 60 is formed via gate insulating film 50 in a channel forming region of a first semiconductor layer 11 of a first electroconductivity type. A pair of second semiconductor layers (40, 41) of a second electroconductivity type are formed on the surface layer of the first semiconductor layer 11 on both sides of gate electrode 60. A third semiconductor layer 43 of the second electroconductivity type is formed in the first semiconductor layer 11 at a prescribed depth below the channel forming region and is connected to the second semiconductor layer 40. A solid-state image pickup device in which the field effect transistor is used as an amplification transistor is also disclosed.
US07705369B2 High-voltage diode with optimized turn-off method and corresponding optimization method
The invention relates to a high-voltage diode having a specifically optimized switch-off behavior. A soft recovery behavior of the component can be obtained without increasing the forward losses by adjusting in a specific manner the service life of the charge carriers by irradiating only the n+-conducting cathode emitter (6) side or both sides, i.e. the n+-conducting cathode emitter (6) side and the p+-conducting anode emitter (4) side.
US07705368B2 Insulated gate type thyristor
An insulated gate type thyristor includes: a first current terminal semiconductor region of a first conductivity type having a high impurity concentration; a first base semiconductor region of a second conductivity type opposite to the first conductivity type having a low impurity concentration and formed on the first current terminal semiconductor region; a second base semiconductor region of the first conductivity type having a low impurity concentration and formed on the first base semiconductor region; a second current terminal semiconductor region of the second conductivity type having a high impurity concentration and formed on the second base semiconductor region; a trench passing through the second current terminal semiconductor region and entering the second base semiconductor region leaving some depth thereof, along a direction from a surface of the second current terminal semiconductor region toward the first base semiconductor region; and an insulated gate electrode structure formed in the trench.
US07705354B2 Semiconductor device and method for fabricating the same
A display device includes a main body, a support stand, and a display portion. The display portion includes a pixel having a TFT and a capacitor. The capacitor includes a capacitor electrode on an insulating surface, an insulating film on the capacitor electrode, and a pixel electrode of the TFT on the insulating film.
US07705348B2 Semiconductor light-emitting device with electrode for N-polar InGaAIN surface
One embodiment of the present invention provides a semiconductor light-emitting device. The semiconductor light-emitting device includes a substrate, a p-type doped InGaAIN layer, an n-type doped InGaAIN layer, and an active layer situated between the p-type doped and n-type doped InGaAIN layers. The semiconductor light-emitting device further includes an n-side Ohmic-contact layer coupled to an N-polar surface of the n-type doped InGaAIN layer. The Ohmic-contact layer comprises at least one of Au, Ni, and Pt, and at least one of group IV elements.
US07705346B2 Barrier layer for an organic electronic device
A novel barrier layer which protects electronic devices from adverse environmental effects such as exposure to light, oxygen and/or moisture is described. The barrier layer comprises a polymer, an antioxidant, and an inorganic particulate material.
US07705344B2 Light-emitting device
A light-emitting device includes a substrate, an n-type semiconductor layer, an active layer, and a p-type semiconductor layer; wherein the active layer is a multi-quantum-well (MQW) active layer with a predetermined n-type doping profile. More specifically, the MQW active layer is doped with n-type dopants in the region near the p-type semiconductor layer and the n-type semiconductor layer, and the central region is not doped with the n-type dopants.
US07705340B2 Inflected magnetoresistive structures and memory cells having inflected magnetoresistive structures
Disclosed herein is a magnetoresistive structure having a non-planar form. Embodiments of the present MR structure includes those having at least one inflection between a first portion of the MR structure that is somewhat vertical relative to a substrate and a second portion of the MR structure that is somewhat horizontal relative to the substrate. Such a structure can be used for memory device, for example an MRAM memory device, wherein the memory density is increased compared to devices having prior planar MR structures without reducing the surface area of the MR structures.
US07705337B2 System and method for image detection using large area pin diode
A photo-detector circuit for barcode scanners, endoscopes, and the like, includes a large area PIN photo-diode and an amplifier. Adverse effects associated with a terminal capacitance from the large area PIN diode may be minimized by maintaining a relatively constant voltage across the input terminals of the amplifier. Noise levels may be minimized by the arrangement of the amplifier circuit and the large area PIN diode resulting in an increased signal-to-noise ratio and an increased gain-bandwidth product. Due to the large numerical aperture of the photo-detector, increased resolution and/or lower output power in a reflective imaging system may be obtained with relatively low cost components. Detection area of the large area PIN diode may be larger than approximately 25 mm2 when compared to typical PIN diodes used in photo-detector applications.
US07705329B2 Charged particle beam processing apparatus
In view of the fact that in line processing, when processing is performed to a certain depth, the processing does not advance with the passage of a further processing time, a processing apparatus is provided which can appropriately control the depth of grooves in linear groove processing and perform the processing at high speed. A line width and line depth are calculated so as to minimize a processing time of processing on a line to a required depth and processing is performed using the width and line depth as set values of processing. Furthermore, processing is performed with the area in which the beam is actually irradiated superimposed on the scanned image of a focused ion beam and displayed on a screen. In the case of an ion beam inclined with respect to the sample surface, processing is also performed by displaying the area where the beam is actually irradiated by taking the inclination of the sample with respect to the beam into consideration.
US07705318B2 Device and method for measuring the energy and position of an incident ionising particle in a detector
A radiation detection device, including a detector in semi-conductor material, a first electrode, and a second electrode. The first electrode has a form of pixels, with a first pitch, on one of the sides of the detector. The device further includes a mechanism for identifying the energy of an incident photon in the detector as a function of signals coming uniquely from the second electrode.
US07705300B2 Charged particle beam adjusting method and charged particle beam apparatus
In an apparatus for obtaining an image by irradiating a charged particle beam on a specimen, a condition of the beam conditioned differently from vertical incidence as in the case of the beam being tilted is required to be adjusted. To this end, the apparatus has a controller for automatically controlling a stigmator, an objective lens and a deflector such that astigmatism is corrected, focus is adjusted and view filed shift is corrected. The controller has a selector for inhibiting at least one of the astigmatism correction, focus adjustment and FOV shift correction from being executed.
US07705292B2 Method and apparatus for detecting a condition of an optical element
A condition or detecting a change in the condition of an optical element of a laser arrangement is detected. An ultrasonic signal is coupled into an optical element such that the ultrasonic signal travels along a path within the optical element, and a transit time or a change in transit time for the ultrasonic signal to travel along the path within the optical element is detected.
US07705291B2 Apparatus and method for wound diagnosis
A configurable scanner (1), adapted for contactless measurement of the depth and perimeter of a wound on a target body part (9), has a scan head (4), and a processor (3) for controlling a scanning procedure and analyzing the results. The scan head is translated along a substantially semicircular path (7) having a configurable radial distance from an imaginary axis, such that the imaginary axis is approximately coincident with an axis of the target (9). The scan head (4) projects a contour line having a calibrated length onto the target surface, and the processor (3) stores an image of the projected contour line captured by an image capturing device (11). The processor (3) analyzes a series of captured images to determine the coordinates in three axes of the projected contour line, creates therefrom a 3D model of the region of interest, and determines a depth and perimeter of the wound from the 3D model.
US07705287B2 Broadband light source unit that produces a supercontinuum lightwave, and optical analyzer
A broadband light source unit that produces a supercontinuum lightwave having a flat spectral form and has a light source that outputs a first source lightwave, which is a pulse lightwave having periodic pulses with a constant intensity, an intensity modulator that receives the first source lightwave, produces a second source lightwave having pulses whose intensities are different from one another, and outputs it, and a nonlinear optical medium section that receives the second source lightwave, produces a supercontinuum lightwave having a wavelength band broadened through a nonlinear optical phenomenon, and outputs it. An optical analyzer includes a light-applying section that applies a supercontinuum lightwave outputted from the broadband light source unit to a light-receiving region of a measurement-undergoing object, and an image pickup section that receives a lightwave generated at the light-receiving region by the application of the supercontinuum lightwave and picks up an image of the measurement-undergoing object.
US07705286B2 Passive safety system with a direction sensing exit zone for use in a mobile storage system
A mobile storage system includes a number of storage units supported by a supporting surface, including first and second storage units that are movable toward and away from each other to create an aisle. A sensing system detects the presence of persons or objects in the aisle and the direction of movement of persons or objects into or out of the aisle. The sensing system includes exit zone sensors located adjacent an end area of the storage units that defines the end area of the aisle, and inner sensors located along an inner area of the storage units inwardly of the end area. The exit zone and inner sensors are located at generally the same elevation above the supporting surface. Each of the storage units includes a carriage that is movable relative to the supporting surface, and the sensors are mounted to the carriage via a sensor housing interconnected with the carriage.
US07705284B2 High-speed single-photon detector in telecommunication wavelength band
In order to operate a single photon detector in communication wavelength band at a high speed, a DC bias voltage 2 lower than the breakdown voltage is applied to an InGaAs/InP avalanche photodiode (APD) 1. A 500 MHz sine wave gating signal 3 is superimposed with the DC bias voltage 2 and applied to the APD 1 so as to exceed the breakdown voltage by about 4V in a fractional time of each period. The sine wave gating signal 3 passed through the APD 1 is substantially completely removed by a filter 4, thereby improving S/N and enabling to detect a single photon even if the avalanche multiplication time is shortened to reduce the after pulse and the detection period. As a result, it achieves to detect a single photon in the 1550 nm communication band at a high speed.
US07705278B2 Backlight unit and method of driving the same controlling temperature of the backlight unit
Provided is a backlight unit including one or more white light emitting diodes (LEDs) for generating light; an LED module having a printed circuit board (PCB), the LED module supporting and driving the white LED; a sensor for detecting the color temperature of the white LED; a heat generating element connected to the LED module; and a controller for controlling the sensor, the LED module, and the heat generating element.
US07705271B2 Flexible surface heating element, particularly for seat heaters, and method for producing a flexible heating element
A flexible surface heating element, particularly for seat heaters, having a heating field of conductive fibers electrically connected to at least one contact strip. The contact strip contains a portion of conductors in the form of steel filaments and a portion of conductors in the form of filaments of a higher conductivity than that of the steel filaments. The two types of conductors are electrically interconnected and affixed by means of a yarn on a textile band, the conductors of higher conductivity extending above and/or under the steel filament conductors and being electrically connected to the steel filament conductors. A method for producing the flexible heating element is also provided.
US07705269B2 Method and apparatus for advance warning and controlled shutdown in an arc processing system
Warning and shutdown systems and methods are presented for providing advance warnings of pending fault conditions to an operator of an arc processing system. The warning system comprises an input, a logic system, and a signaling system, where the input receives a sensor signal indicative of an operational condition of the arc processing system, the logic system detects a pending fault condition based on the sensor signal, and the signaling system provides a warning signal to the operator, wherein the warning signal is indicative of the pending fault condition. Shutdown apparatus is provided which has a sensor input, a logic system to detect a fault condition, and a shutdown system that selectively shuts the arc processing system down a predetermined time period after fault detection.
US07705268B2 Method and system for laser soft marking
Methods and systems for laser soft marking, especially for semiconductor wafers and devices, are provided. A laser-marking system for marking a semiconductor wafer to form a softmark on the wafer is provided. The system includes a laser subsystem for generating one or more laser pulses and a controller operatively connected to the laser subsystem. The controller sets a laser pulse width of the one or more laser pulses to selectively provide one or more laser output pulses having one or more set pulse widths that affect the depth of a softmark that is to be formed. The mark depth is substantially dependent on the one or more set pulse widths. The controller further sets a pulse energy of the one or more output pulses to selectively provide the one or more output pulses having a set total output energy that is within an acceptable process energy window for producing the softmark.
US07705258B2 Electronic key
The aim of the invention is to provide a simple and economical embodiment of an electronic key comprising dimensionally stable push buttons (31). To this end, a membrane (21) and a frame (22) are used is a 2K element (20) of a dual-component technology. The soft component of the 2K element (20) consists of a membrane (21), while the hard component is a frame (22) containing a free membrane field between the frame sections thereof. The housing (11) of the key has an opening (13) which is large enough to fit the entire push button actuation surface (34). The push buttons (31) are freely inserted from the inner side (16) of the housing (11) into the housing opening (13). The 2K element (20) thus secures the push button position in the housing (11). The push buttons (31) are limited at the top and at the bottom. The frame of the 2K element (20) provides the inner abutment (28) for the push buttons (31). The inner surface of each edge region (17) of the housing (11), closing the housing opening (13), functions as an outer abutment (18) for the push button (31).
US07705256B2 Thin key sheet
Mobile phones are in a trend of having thinner configuration due to emphasis on the design. Thus, in order to meet this demand, the present invention aims to thin the key sheet portion as much as possible. The present invention provides a thin key sheet 1 comprising a key top 2 made of a metal or a resin having on the front surface or the back surface indications such as letters, symbols, graphics or the like indicating the functions of keys, a key pad 3 made of a material having rubber elasticity such as a silicone rubber or various elastomers for supporting/fixing the key top, an EL element 8 formed on the back surface of the key top by means of printing, and a printed circuit board 5 on which a switch element is provided at its surface for turning ON/OFF of an electric circuit by the pressing of the key top 2 and on which a circuit pattern involved therewith is formed.
US07705244B2 Multi-conductor cable construction
A cable for use in computer networking for example has a jacket defining an internal space. A separator is located in the internal space and divides the space into three or more segments. The separator has a three or more radiating walls, at least one of which has an extension extending substantially normally from the wall to at least partially enclosed one of the segments. A conductor is located within each segment.
US07705238B2 Coaxial RF device thermally conductive polymer insulator and method of manufacture
An insulator supporting an inner conductor within the outer conductor of a coaxial device formed from a portion of thermally conductive polymer composition with a thermal conductivity of at least 4 W/m-K. The portion is dimensioned with an outer diameter in contact with the outer conductor and a coaxial central bore supporting there through the inner conductor. Cavities may be formed in the portion for dielectric matching and or material conservation purposes. The insulator may be cost effectively fabricated via injection molding.
US07705215B1 Methods and compositions for the production of stably transformed, fertile monocot plants and cells thereof
This invention relates to a reproducible system for the production of stable, genetically transformed maize cells, and to methods of selecting cells that have been transformed. One method of selection disclosed employs the Streptomyces bar gene introduced by microprojectile bombardment into embryogenic maize cells which were grown in suspension cultures, followed by exposure to the herbicide bialaphos. The methods of achieving stable transformation disclosed herein include tissue culture methods and media, methods for the bombardment of recipient cells with the desired transforming DNA, and methods of growing fertile plants from the transformed cells. This invention also relates to the transformed cells and seeds and to the fertile plants grown from the transformed cells and to their pollen.
US07705211B2 Soybean Cultivar S070153
A soybean cultivar designated S070153 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar S070153, to the plants of soybean S070153, to plant parts of soybean cultivar S070153 and to methods for producing a soybean plant produced by crossing soybean cultivar S070153 with itself or with another soybean variety. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. This invention also relates to soybean cultivars or breeding cultivars and plant parts derived from soybean variety S070153, to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S070153 and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants and plant parts produced by crossing the cultivar S070153 with another soybean cultivar.
US07705210B2 Soybean cultivar 7643392
A soybean cultivar designated 7643392 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar 7643392, to the plants of soybean 7643392, to plant parts of soybean cultivar 7643392 and to methods for producing a soybean plant produced by crossing soybean cultivar 7643392 with itself or with another soybean variety. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. This invention also relates to soybean cultivars or breeding cultivars and plant parts derived from soybean variety 7643392, to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 7643392 and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants and plant parts produced by crossing the cultivar 7643392 with another soybean cultivar.
US07705203B2 Benzoate inductible promoters
Benzoate inducible promoters and promoter systems are disclosed, and uses thereof. Polynucleotides disclosing Benzoate Response Elements are also disclosed.
US07705191B2 Hydrofluoroalkyl phenols having anesthetic properties
Substituted hydrofluoroalkylphenol compounds and methods of using the compounds, e.g., for anesthetizing a subject, are disclosed.
US07705172B2 Process for the preparation of a metal-organic compound comprising a spectator ligand
The invention relates to a process for the production of an organometallic compound according to formula (1): MALjYrX(p.(n+v+r)Rn (formula 1) where: M is a metal of groups 3-13 or the lanthanide series, and p is the valency of the metal M, A represents an anionic spectator ligand whose valency v is 1 or 2, Y is a spectator ligand represented by formula (2): wherein the spectator ligand is covalently bonded to the metal M via the imine nitrogen atom, Sub1 is a substituent, which comprises a group 14 atom through which SUb1 is bonded to the imine carbon atom, Sub2 is a substituent, which comprises an atom of groups 15-16, through which Sub2 is bonded to the imine carbon atom, sub1 and sub2 might be connected to each other forming a ring system, r is an integer>0, L is an optional neutral Lewis basic ligand, j is an integer denoting the number of neutral ligands L, X is an halide, and R is an anionic ligand, wherein an organometallic reagent according to formula (3), MALjXp−v (formula 3), is contacted with an alkylating agent, thus forming a precursor in which at least one of the halide atoms is replaced by an anionic ligand R that may be independently selected from the group consisting of alkyl, arylalkyl, aryl, or a combination thereof, which precursor is subsequently contacted with an imine according to formula (2).
US07705168B2 Manufacturing process for tigecycline
Disclosed herein is a manufacturing process for the preparation of tigecycline suitable for intravenous infusion.
US07705162B2 Indolium compounds and optical recording materials
The indolium compounds of the present invention are represented by general formula (I) below and exhibit thermal decomposition behavior further suitable for optical recording materials used in an optical recording layer of an optical recording medium for high-speed recording. (In the formula, ring A represents a benzene or naphthalene ring; Z represents, for example, an optionally halogenated C1-8 alkyl group that is optionally interrupted by —O—, —CO—, —OCO—, or —COO—; at least one of R1 and R2 represents a group represented by general formula (II) or (III), and when only one of R1 and R2 is a group represented by general formula (II) or (III), the other represents a C1-30 organic group; R3 and R4 each represent a hydrogen atom, a C1-30 organic group, or others; X represents a C1-8 alkyl group, which is optionally substituted with a halogen atom or a hydroxyl group or optionally interrupted by an ether bond, or others; Y1 represents a hydrogen atom or a C1-30 organic group; n represents an integer of 0 to 4, q represents an integer of 0 to 4; Anm- represents an m-valent anion; m represents 1 or 2; and p represents a coefficient to keep the electric charge neutral.)
US07705160B2 Method for preparing 3-halo-4,5-dihydro-1H-pyrazoles
This invention relates to a method for preparing a 3-halo-4,5-dihydro-1H-pyrazole compound of Formula I comprising contacting with HX1 a different 4,5-dihydro-1H-pyrazole compound of Formula II wherein X1 is halogen and L, R, k and X2 are as defined in the disclosure. This invention also discloses preparation of compounds of Formula III wherein X1, R3, R6, R7, R8a, R8b and n are as defined in the disclosure.
US07705158B2 Inhibitors of ion channels
Compounds, compositions and methods are provided which are useful in the treatment of diseases through the inhibition of sodium ion flux through voltage-gated sodium channels. More particularly, the invention provides substituted aryl sulfonamides, compositions comprising these compounds, as well as methods of using these compounds or compositions in the treatment of central or peripheral nervous system disorders, particularly pain and chronic pain by blocking sodium channels associated with the onset or recurrence of the indicated conditions. The compounds, compositions and methods of the present invention are of particular use for treating neuropathic or inflammatory pain by the inhibition of ion flux through a voltage-gated sodium channel.
US07705143B2 Benzoimidazole compounds
Benzoimidazole compounds, compositions, and methods of using them in leukocyte recruitment inhibition, in modulating H4 receptor, and in treating conditions such as inflammation, H4 receptor-mediated conditions, and related conditions.
US07705131B2 Method for diagnosing selected adenocarcinomas
A method for the early diagnosing of selected adenocarcinomas in a human comprising the steps of removing a bodily sample from the human, and assaying the bodily sample for elevated expression of a specific gene. The gene being assayed for in the bodily sample is the TGFB-4 gene (hereinafter referred to as the endometrial bleeding associated factor (ebaf) gene. The bodily sample can be tissue from a specific organ in the body, or a blood sample. Increased levels of ebaf in the sample relative to basal levels may be indicative of a mucinous adenocarcinoma of the colon or ovaries, or an adenocarcinoma of the testis.
US07705129B2 Replikin peptides in rapid replication of glioma cells and in influenza epidemics
Peptides of influenza virus hemagglutinin protein and Plasmodium falciparum malaria antigen, antibodies specific for the peptides, influenza vaccines, malaria vaccines and methods of stimulating the immune response of a subject to produce antibodies to influenza virus or malaria are disclosed. Also disclosed are methods for formulating vaccines for influenza virus.
US07705127B1 HDM2 Polypeptides
The present invention relates to HDM2 polypeptides and mutants thereof which are complexed with various compounds, e.g., HDM2 inhibitors.
US07705126B2 Compositions for controlling hair growth
FP-1 is a protein that is specifically expressed in the follicular papilla of the hair follicle. The nucleic acid and amino acid sequences of FP-1, as well as antibodies that specifically bind FP-1 are provided. In addition, methods of isolating follicular papilla cells and methods of modulating hair growth are also disclosed.
US07705124B2 Leucine-based motif and clostridial neurotoxins
Modified neurotoxin comprising neurotoxin including structural modification, wherein the structural modification alters the biological persistence, preferably the biological half-life, of the modified neurotoxin relative to an identical neurotoxin without the structural modification. The structural modification includes addition or deletion of a leucine-based motif or parts thereof. In one embodiment, methods of making the modified neurotoxin include using recombinant techniques. In another embodiment, methods of using the modified neurotoxin to treat biological disorders include treating autonomic disorders, neuromuscular disorders or pains.
US07705123B2 MU-1, member of the cytokine receptor family
Polynucleotides encoding the MU-1 hematopoietin receptor superfamily chain and fragments thereof are disclosed. MU-1 proteins and methods for their production are also disclosed.
US07705118B2 Methods for preparing internally constrained peptides and peptidomimetics
The present invention relates to a method for preparing a peptide having a stable, internally constrained alpha-helical, beta-sheet/beta-turn, 310-helical, or pi-helical region and a method of stabilizing an alpha-helical, beta-sheet/beta-turn, 310-helical, or pi-helical region within a peptide structure. The resulting peptides and methods of using them are also disclosed.
US07705117B2 EGFH2 genes and gene products
This invention relates to mouse and human EGFH2, and to variants thereof and to polynucleotides encoding EGFH2. This invention also relates to therapeutic agents related to the polynucleotides and proteins.
US07705115B2 Process for producing radiation-sensitive resin composition
A process for producing a radiation-sensitive resin composition includes the steps of providing a filter apparatus equipped with a filter composed of a polyamide resin filter and a polyethylene resin filter connected in series, circulating a precursor composition for the radiation-sensitive resin composition in the filter apparatus so that the precursor composition is passed through the filter two or more times to thereby effect filtration with the result that foreign matter is removed from the precursor composition.
US07705109B2 Block copolyetherester elastomer and preparation thereof
Processes for the preparation of a block copolyetherester elastomer and block copolyether elastomers made thereby are provided having polyester hard blocks and poly(alkylene oxide) polyol soft blocks, wherein at least one aromatic dicarboxylic acid or an ester-forming derivative thereof, and at least one alkylene diol, are esterified with a poly(alkylene oxide) polyol, comprising an poly(propylene oxide), end capped with ethylene oxide, are esterified, an ethylene oxide content of between 22 and 90% by weight, relative to the total weight of the poly(alkylene oxide) polyol, and an unsaturation content, being the total content of vinyl and allyl groups, of less than 35 meq per kg poly(alkylene oxide) polyol.
US07705096B2 Manufacturing method of resin for developing agent
In a manufacturing method of a resin for developing agent, a first polymerization agent is added in an aqueous medium; a radical polymerizable monomer is polymerized in the presence of a chain transfer agent to form a low molecular substance resin particle; after consuming the chain transfer agent, a second polymerization initiator is added in the aqueous medium; and the remaining monomer is polymerized to form a high molecular substance resin particle, thereby improving fixability of the developing agent.
US07705083B2 Curable fluoroelastomers
Ionically curable fluoroelastomers based on vinylidenfluoride (VDF) comprising: a) 100 parts by weight of fluoroelastomer based on vinylidenfluoride (VDF) substantially polar end groups free; b) from 0.1 to 0.35 phr of accelerating agent; c) from 1 to 15 phr of curing agent; d) from 2 to 20 phr of one or more inorganic acid acceptors, preferably bivalent metal oxides; e) from 0 to 3 phr, preferably from 0 to 1.5 phr of one or more basic compounds preferably hydroxides of bivalent metals or of weak acid metal salts; f) from 0 to 80 phr of reinforcing fillers; g) from 0 to 3 phr of coadjuvants of processability.
US07705075B2 Stabilized polyolefin compositions
Disclosed are compositions comprising antioxidants and stabilizers, such as, acid scavengers or organic phosphorus stabilizers, and optionally further comprising co-stabilizers. The disclosed compositions are useful as stabilizers for polyolefins and other polymeric materials. The disclosed compositions and methods generally provide longer shelf lives and better oxidative resistance to materials than currently available antioxidants.
US07705066B2 Water-based coating composition curable with actinic energy ray, coated metallic material, and process for producing the same
The present invention provides an excellent radiation curable aqueous coating composition, which is highly safe and can make the adhesion to a metal surface and the corrosion resistance compatible which have been considered to conflict with each other, particularly adhesion after severe working and solvent resistance, and particularly durability to alcohols having high polarity. The composition of the present invention contains (1) a phosphoric acid ester compound having an ethylenically unsaturated double bond, (2) an aqueous polyurethane resin having both an ethylenically unsaturated double bond and a group capable of forming a salt, and (3) colloidal silica.
US07705065B2 Photoinitiator functionalized with alkoxy groups
A photoinitiator compound is functionalized with alkoxy groups so as to be soluble in alkoxy-containing monomers. The photoinitiator has a formula of R1—(OR2)n—OC(═O)—R3, wherein R1—(OR2)n— represents an alkoxy group and R3 represents a photoinitiator structure. The photoinitiator may be used in a composition for incorporation into inks.
US07705060B2 Method to start a process for producing hydrocarbons from synthesis gas
The present invention provides a method to start a steady state process for producing normally gaseous, normally liquid and optionally normally solid hydrocarbons from synthesis gas, which method comprises the steps of: (i) providing an activated catalyst in tubes of a fixed bed reactor, preferably a multitubular fixed bed reactor, the catalyst being suitable to convert synthesis gas to normally gaseous, normally liquid and optionally normally solid hydrocarbons; (ii) contacting the activated catalyst with a liquid to obtain a wetted activated catalyst; (iii) contacting the wetted activated catalyst with synthesis gas and catalytically converting the synthesis gas at an elevated temperature and pressure to obtain the normally gaseous, normally liquid and optionally normally solid hydrocarbons.
US07705059B2 Selective oxidative conversion of methane to methanol, dimethyl ether and derived products
The present invention relates to a method of producing methanol from a methane source by oxidizing methane under conditions sufficient to a mixture of methanol and formaldehyde while minimizing the formation of formic acid and carbon dioxide. The oxidation step is followed by treatment step in which formaldehyde is converted into methanol and formic acid which itself can further be converted into methanol via catalytic hydrogenation of intermediately formed methyl formate.
US07705052B2 Sulfonamide derivatives for the treatment of diabetes
The present invention is related to the use of sulfonamide derivatives in the treatment of metabolic disorders mediated by insulin resistance or hyperglycemia, comprising diabetes type II, inadequate glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Formula (I). R1 is selected from the group comprising or consisting of hydrogen, C1-C6-alkoxy, C1-C6-alkyl, C2-C6-alkenyl, C2-C6-alkynyl, amino, sulfanyl, sulfinyl, sulfonyl, sulfonyloxy, sulfonamide, acylamino, aminocarbonyl, C1-C6 alkoxycarbonyl, aryl, heteroaryl, carboxy, cyano, halogen, hydroxy, nitro, hydrazides. R2 is selected from the group comprising or consisting of hydrogen, COOR3, —CONR3R3′, OH, a C1-C4 alkyl substituted with an OH or amino group, a hydrazido carbonyl group, a sulfate, a sulfonate, an amine or an ammonium salt. Y is an 4-12-membered saturated cyclic or bicyclic alkyl containing at least one nitrogen atom, whereby one nitrogen atom within said ring is forming a bond with the sulfonyl group of formula I thus providing the sulfonamide.
US07705043B2 Substituted aminodicarboxylic acid derivatives having pharmaceutical properties
The invention relates to compounds of formula (I) and their salts and stereoisomers in which the variables are as defined in the description and claims, for producing medicaments used in the treatment of cardiovascular and other diseases. Such compounds, processes for preparing them, compositions containing them, and methods of using them are claimed.
US07705033B2 Methods and compounds for producing dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibitors and intermediates thereof
Methods and compounds for production of cyclopropyl-fused pyrrolidine-based inhibitors of dipeptidyl peptidase IV are provided.
US07705032B2 Method and composition for treating burned skin
The present invention relates to a method and composition for treating sunburned skin. The present invention provides a method and composition for applying a mixture of indomethacin and moisturizing lotion topically to sunburned skin. The composition includes a mixture having substantially 100 milligrams of indomethacin per 30 cc of moisturizing lotion. The moisturizing lotion is marketed under the trade name Cetaphil® and includes the following ingredients: purified water, glycerin, hydrogenated polyisobutene, cetearyl alcohol (and) ceteareth-20, macadamia nut oil, dimethicone, tocopheryl acetate, stearoxytrimethylsilane (and) stearyl alcohol, panthenol, famesol, benzyl alcohol, phenoxyethanol, acrylates/C10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, sodium hydroxide, and citric acid. It is theorized that the Cetaphil® provides certain pH and viscosity levels which allow for the stabilization and solubilation of the indomethacin within the Cetaphil®. The present invention may also be utilized for treating skin burns caused by radiation therapy and excessive heat.
US07705031B2 Benzimidazoles useful as modulators of ion channels
The present invention relates to compounds of Formula I: or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein the R1, Z, Y, RA, and W groups of formula I are as defined herein. The invention also provides pharmaceutically acceptable compositions and methods of using the compositions in the treatment of various disorders.
US07705026B2 Biaryl heterocyclic compounds and methods of making and using the same
The present invention relates generally to the field of anti-infective, anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory, and prokinetic agents. More particularly, the invention relates to a family of compounds having both a biaryl moiety and at least one heterocylic moiety that are useful as such agents.
US07705023B2 Indoles useful in the treatment of inflammation
There is provided a compound of formula: (I), wherein X, R1, R2, R3, R4, R5 and R6 have meanings given in the description, and pharmaceutically-acceptable salts thereof, which compounds are useful in the treatment of diseases in which inhibition of the activity of microsomal prostaglandin E synthase-1 is desired and/or required, and particularly in the treatment of inflammation.
US07705018B2 Substituted quinolines and their uses in treatment of inflammatory and related conditions
Substituted bicyclic heteroaryls having the general formula and compositions containing them, for the treatment of general inflammation, arthritis, rheumatic diseases, osteoarthritis, inflammatory bowel disorders, inflammatory eye disorders, inflammatory or unstable bladder disorders, psoriasis, skin complaints with inflammatory components, chronic inflammatory conditions, including but not restricted to autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosis (SLE), myestenia gravis, rheumatoid arthritis, acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, multiples sclerosis, Sjoegren's syndrome and autoimmune hemolytic anemia, allergic conditions including all forms of hypersensitivity, The present invention also enables methods for treating cancers that are mediated, dependent on or associated with p110δ activity, including but not restricted to leukemias, such as Acute Myeloid leukaemia (AML) Myelo-dysplastic syndrome (MDS) myelo-proliferative diseases (MPD) Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic leukaemia (T-ALL) B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic leukaemia (B-ALL) Non Hodgkins Lymphoma (NHL) B-cell lymphoma and solid tumors, such as breast cancer.
US07705012B2 Camptothecins conjugated in position 7 to cyclic peptides as cytostatic agents
Compounds of Formula (I) are described in which the R1 group is as defined in the specification and includes the condensation of the camptothecin molecule in position 7 with a cyclopeptide containing the RGD sequence. Said compounds are endowed both with high affinity for integrin receptors αvβ3 and αvβ5 and with selective cytotoxic activity on human tumour cell lines at micromolar concentrations.
US07705007B2 Cis-imidazolines
There are provided compounds of the formula I wherein R, V1, V2 and Ring A are described herein. The compounds exhibit anticancer activity.
US07705002B2 Biaryls useful as modulators of ion channels
The present invention relates to compounds useful as inhibitors of ion channels. The invention also provides pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising the compounds of the invention and methods of using the compositions in the treatment of various disorders.
US07705001B2 Therapeutic substituted gamma lactams
Disclosed herein is a compound comprising or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or a prodrug thereof; wherein Y, A, X, R and D are as described. Methods, compositions, and medicaments related thereto are also disclosed.
US07704997B1 Amino-tetrazole analogues and methods of use
A compound having Formula (I) or Formula (II) is disclosed as an P2X7 antagonist, wherein A, B, C, Y, Y, Z, m, v, R1, R2, R3, R4, and R5, are as defined in the description. Methods and compositions for treating disease or condition modulated by P2X7 are also disclosed.
US07704993B2 Benzazepine derivatives and methods of prophylaxis or treatment of 5ht2c receptor associated diseases
The present invention relates to certain 1-substituted-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-3-benzazepine derivatives of Formula (I), that are modulators of the 5HT2C receptor. Accordingly, compounds of the present invention are useful for the prophylaxis or treatment of 5HT2C receptor associated diseases, conditions or disorders, such as, obesity and related disorders.
US07704987B1 β-amyloid peptide inhibitors
The present invention relates to compounds which inhibit the binding of metal ions to a region in the N-terminal loop of the β-amyloid peptide which includes a cluster of histidine residues. In addition, the invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions including these compounds as the active agent, and to methods of treatment involving the administration of these compounds. The compounds of the invention are useful in the treatment of Alzheimer's Disease and other amyloid-related conditions. In a first aspect the present invention provides a compound which interacts with the β-amyloid peptide in such a way that the N-terminal loop of the peptide (amino acid residues 1-15) is blocked or destabilised, thereby inhibiting the binding of one or more metal ions to at least one histidine residue within the N-terminal loop. Preferably the compound inhibits binding of Cu2+, Zn2+ and Fe3+ ions, but not Mg2+ or Ca2+ ions.
US07704969B2 Transfection complexes
The invention provides a peptide having at least 3 amino acids comprising an amino acid sequence selected from a)X1SM[SEQ.ID.NO.: 1] b)LX2HK[SEQ.ID.NO.: 2] c)PSGX3ARA[SEQ.ID.NO.: 9] d)SX4RSMNF[SEQ.ID.NO.: 16] e)LX5HKSMP[SEQ.ID.NO.: 18] in which X1 is a basic amino acid residue, X2 is Q or P, X3 is A or T, X4 is an acidic amino acid residue and X5 is P or Q. The invention further provides non-viral cell-targeting vector complexes and methods associated therewith.
US07704963B2 LPS-responsive chs1/beige-like anchor gene and therapeutic applications thereof
The present invention relates to a novel LPS-responsive and Beige-like Anchor gene (lrba), variants of the lrba gene, fragments of the lrba gene, and polypeptides encoded thereby. The subject invention also pertains to lrba interfering RNA, and uses thereof. In another aspect, the present invention also includes methods of inhibiting tumor growth in a patient by suppressing lrba function.
US07704958B1 Methods and compositions for inhibiting apoptosis using serine protease inhibitors
The instant invention provides a method of treating an animal suffering a disease characterized by excessive apoptosis by administering a therapeutically effective amount of at least one serine protease inhibitor and thereafter monitoring a decrease in apoptosis. The inhibitor of the invention includes α1-antitrypsin or an α1-antitrypsin-like agent, including, but not limited to oxidation-resistant variants of α1-antitrypsin, and peptoids with antitrypsin activity. The diseases treatable by the invention include cancer, autoimmune disease, sepsis neurodegenerative disease, myocardial infarction, stroke, ischemia-reperfusion injury, toxin induced liver injury and AIDS. The method of the invention is also suitable for the prevention or amelioration of diseases characterized by excessive apoptosis.
US07704952B2 Methods for treating diabetes using fibroblast growth factor-like polypeptides
The present invention provides methods for treating diabetes using Fibroblast Growth Factor-like (FGF-like) polypeptides and nucleic acid molecules encoding the same.
US07704951B2 Method for ameliorating dyskinesia
A novel medicament for treating neurodegenerative diseases, especially for ameliorating dyskinesia, comprising as an active ingredient selenoprotein P and/or a peptide fragment or a series of peptide fragments derived from said protein is provided. The novel medicament for treating neurodegenerative diseases, especially for ameliorating dyskinesia, according to the present invention is suitably applicable to diseases with decrease in motor function.
US07704947B2 Methods and compositions for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders
The present invention features compositions and related methods for treating IBS and other gastrointestinal disorders and conditions (e.g., gastrointestinal motility disorders, functional gastrointestinal disorders, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, Inflammatory bowel disease, functional heartburn, dyspepsia (including functional dyspepsia or nonulcer dyspepsia), gastroparesis, chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (or colonic pseudo-obstruction), and disorders and conditions associated with constipation, e.g., constipation associated with use of opiate pain killers, post-surgical constipation, and constipation associated with neuropathic disorders as well as other conditions and disorders using peptides and other agents that activate the guanylate cyclase C (GC-C) receptor.
US07704945B2 IL-18 receptors
A novel polypeptide that functions as an IL-18 receptor is disclosed. The receptor is multimeric and includes at least one AcPL polypeptide, or fragment thereof, and at least one IL-1Rrp1 polypeptide, or fraction thereof. The receptor binds IL-18 and finds use in inhibiting biological activities mediated by IL-18.
US07704941B2 Citral derivatives
Improved citral derivatives, and fragrances and flavorings including the derivatives, that have a longer useful shelf life than citral and/or fragrances and flavorings including citral, are disclosed. In particular, the derivatives maintain the fragrance characteristics of citral, while lowering the allergic properties, and lemony flavors and fragrances with a longer shelf-life than citral, are disclosed. Also disclosed are methods of making the derivatives, and articles of manufacture including the derivatives. In one embodiment, the derivatives are prepared by replacing one or more double bonds in citral with a cyclopropyl group, which can be unsubstituted, or substituted with one or two lower alkyl, preferably methyl groups. The alkyl groups can optionally be substituted, for example, with electron donating groups, electron with drawing groups, groups which increase the hydrophilicity or hydrophobocity, and the like. In another embodiment, the derivatives are prepared by replacing the aldehyde group in citral with a nitrile, methyl ether or acetal group. The acetal groups can provide the compounds with a long lasting flavor or fragrance, where the acetals slowly hydrolyze to provide the aldehyde group in citral. In some embodiments, both the aldehyde and at least one of the double bond functional groups are both derivatized as described herein. Examples of suitable articles of manufacture include candles, air fresheners, perfumes, disinfectant compositions, hypochlorite (bleach) compositions, beverages such as beer and soda, denture cleanser tablets and flavored orally-delivered products such as lozenges, candies, and the like.
US07704938B2 Compositions for lipophilic fluid systems comprising a siloxane-based/non-ionic surfactant mixture
Compositions for treating fabric articles, especially articles of clothing, linens and drapery, wherein the compositions provide improved cleaning of soils from and/or care of and/or treatment of fabric articles, especially while providing superior garment care for articles sensitive to water as compared to conventional fabric article treating compositions, are provided.
US07704932B2 Personal cleaning compositions
Personal cleansing compositions, especially body washes and shampoos, are disclosed comprising surfactant, fragrance oil and less than about 7.5% non-fragrance oil, wherein the surfactant and fragrance oil form: a) a first micellar phase; and b) a second phase which rotates polarized light.
US07704928B2 Lubricating oil composition for manual transmission
Provided is a lubricating oil composition for manual transmissions which has anti-seizure properties for shift forks and can provide manual transmissions with excellent shifting characteristics though it has a low viscosity and can save fuel to be used in automobiles. The lubricating oil composition for manual transmissions comprises a lubricating base oil with a kinematic viscosity at 100° C. of 4 to 6 mm2/s, on the basis of the total mass of the composition, (A) 0.14 to 0.20 percent by mass in terms of magnesium of magnesium sulfonate, (B) 0.14 to 0.18 percent by mass in terms of zinc of a specific zinc dithiophosphate, (C) 0.3 to 0.5 percent by mass in terms of sulfur of a sulfur-containing extreme pressure additive other than zinc dithiophosphate, and (D) 0.02 to 0.05 percent by mass in terms of phosphorus of an alkyl phosphite, and having a kinematic viscosity at 40° C. of 25 to 30 mm2/s.
US07704917B2 Process for producing catalyst for cyanhydrin hydration and product of the process
A process for producing a catalyst for cyanhydrin hydration, which comprises a manganese oxide as a main component and is excellent in both physical strength and reaction activity, is provided, as well as a catalyst for cyanhydrin hydration obtained by the production process. Specifically, a process for producing a catalyst which is useful for cyanhydrin hydration and contains a manganese oxide as a main component, potassium, and one or more elements selected from the group consisting of bismuth, vanadium and tin, in which the above compounds are mixed together in an aqueous system; the resulting slurry precipitate is subjected to solid-liquid separation; and the resulting hydrous cake is dried in at least two separate stages comprising a predrying and a main drying, is provided, as well as a catalyst for cyanhydrin hydration obtained by the production process.
US07704910B2 Catalyst for polymerization of olefins and method for polymerization of olefins
A catalyst for olefin polymerization comprising (A) a solid catalyst component prepared by causing (a) a magnesium compound, (b) a tetravalent titanium halide compound, and (c) an electron donor compound to come in contact with each other, (B) an organoaluminum compound of the general formula R1pAlQ3-p, and (C) an oligomer of an organosilicon compound of the following chemical formula; R4—(R2R3SiO)m—R5 can produce olefin polymers having higher stereoregularity and a broader molecular weight distribution in a higher yield than conventional catalysts.
US07704909B2 Electrode for hydrogen generation and process for preparation thereof
An electrode for hydrogen generation can maintain a low hydrogen overvoltage for a long period of time even when electrolysis is conducted there not only with a low current density but also with a high current density. The electrode for hydrogen generation has a coating layer formed on a conductive base member by applying a material not containing any chlorine atom prepared by dissolving lanthanum carboxylate in a nitric acid solution of ruthenium nitrate and thermally decomposing the material in an oxygen-containing atmosphere.
US07704908B2 Method for reusing rhenium from a donor spent epoxidation catalyst
A method for reusing rhenium from a donor spent epoxidation catalyst, the method comprising: providing a donor comprising spent epoxidation catalyst comprising rhenium, the donor having a cumulative alkylene oxide production of 0.16 kT/m3 of the spent epoxidation catalyst or more; contacting the donor with an aqueous liquid to produce rhenium-depleted donor and aqueous extract comprising extracted rhenium; separating the aqueous extract and the rhenium-depleted donor; and, using the extracted rhenium as a source of rhenium in a subsequent process.
US07704907B2 Synthesized hybrid rock composition, method, and article formed by the method
The invention relates to synthetic hybrid rock compositions, articles of manufacture and related processes employing mineral waste starting materials such as mine tailings, mine development rock, ash, slag, quarry fines, and slimes, to produce valuable articles of manufacture and products, which are characterized by superior physical and structural characteristics, including low porosity, low absorption, increased strength and durability, and retained plasticity. The resulting materials are compositionally and chemically distinct from conventional synthetic rock materials as demonstrated by scanning electron microprobe analysis, and are useful in a wide variety of applications, particularly with respect to commercial and residential construction.
US07704903B2 Antimicrobial phosphate glass with adapted refractive index
The invention provides an antimicrobial phosphate glass composition including, in weight percent based on oxide: greater than 45 to 90 of P2O5, 0 to 60 of B2O3, 0 to 40 of SiO2, 0 to 20 weight percent of Al2O3, 0 to 30 of SO3, 0 to 0.1 of Li2O, 0 to 0.1 of Na2O, 0 to 0.1 of K2O, 0 to 40 of CaO, 0 to 40 of MgO, 0 to 15 of SrO, 0 to 40 of BaO, 0 to 40 of ZnO, 0 to 5 of Ag2O, 0 to 15 of CuO, 0 to 10 of Cr2O3, 0 to 10 of I—, 0 to 10 of TeO2, 0 to 10 of GeO2, 0 to 10 of TiO2, 0 to 10 of ZrO2, 0 to 10 of La2O3, 0 to 5 of Nb2O3, 0 to 5 of CeO2, 0 to 5 of Fe2O3, 0 to 5 of WO3, 0 to 5 of Bi2O3, and 0 to 5 of MoO3.
US07704898B2 Method for the thermal treatment of disk-shaped substrates
Disclosed is an apparatus and a method for reducing flash in an injection mold (532 or 542,543) which molds a molded article between a first mold surface and a second mold surface. The apparatus includes an active material actuator (530 or 533a and 533b or 561a and 561b) configured to, in response to application or removal of an electrical actuation signal thereto, change dimension and urge the first mold surface relative to the second mold surface to reduce flash therebetween. The apparatus also includes a transmission structure (533) configured to provide in use, the electrical actuation signal to said active material actuator (530 or 533a and 533b or 561a and 561b) includes a set of active material actuators stacked one against the other to provide a varying sealing force to urge the first mold surface relative to the second mold surface.
US07704885B2 Semiconductor device and method for fabricating the same
A method for fabricating a semiconductor device is provided. The method of fabricating a semiconductor device provides a semiconductor substrate; forming a first insulating layer, a first conductive layer and a chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) stop layer over the semiconductor substrate in sequence; forming openings in the chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) stop layer and the underlying first conductive layer to expose the first insulating layer, thereby leaving a patterned chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) stop layer and a patterned first conductive layer; forming a second insulating layer on the patterned chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) stop layer, filling in the openings; performing a planarization process to remove a portion of the second insulating layer until the patterned chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) stop layer is exposed, thereby leaving a remaining second insulating layer in the openings; removing the patterned chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) stop layer.
US07704874B1 Method for fabricating a frontside through-wafer via in a processed wafer and related structure
According to an exemplary embodiment, a method for fabricating a frontside through-wafer via in a processed wafer includes forming a through-wafer via opening through at least one interlayer dielectric layer in a through-wafer via region of the processed wafer. The method further includes extending the through-wafer via opening through a substrate to a target depth. The method further includes forming a first conductive layer in the through-wafer via opening and over a through-wafer via pad, which is situated over the at least one interlayer dielectric layer. The first conductive layer in the through-wafer via opening forms an electrical connection between the substrate and the through-wafer via pad. The method further includes forming a second conductive layer on the backside surface of the processed wafer, where the second conductive layer is in electrical contact with the first conductive layer and the substrate.
US07704873B1 Protective self-aligned buffer layers for damascene interconnects
Capping protective self aligned buffer (PSAB) layers are layers of material that are selectively formed at the surface of metal layers in a partially fabricated semiconductor device. Encapsulating PSAB layers are formed not only at the surface of the metal layers, but also within the unexposed portions of the metal lines. Encapsulating PSAB layer, for example, can surround the metal line with the PSAB material, thereby protecting interfaces between the metal line and diffusion barriers. Encapsulating PSAB layers can be formed by treating the exposed surfaces of metal lines with GeH4. Capping PSAB layers can be formed by treating the exposed surfaces of metal lines with SiH4. Interconnects having both a silicon-containing capping PSAB layer and a germanium-containing encapsulating PSAB layer provide good performance in terms of adhesion, resistance shift, and electromigration characteristics.
US07704864B2 Method of manufacturing a superjunction device with conventional terminations
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device includes providing a semiconductor substrate having a heavily doped region of a first conductivity and has a lightly doped region of the first conductivity. The semiconductor substrate a plurality of trenches etched into an active region of the substrate forming a plurality of mesas. A preselected area in the active region is oxidized and then etched using a dry process oxide etch to remove the oxide in the bottoms of the trenches. A protective shield is formed over a region at a border between the active region and the termination region. The protective shield is partially removed from over the preselected area. Dopants are implanted at an angle into mesas in the preselected area. The plurality of trenches are with an insulating material, the top surface of the structure is planarized and a superjunction device is formed on the structure.
US07704860B2 Nitride-based semiconductor device and method for fabricating the same
A nitride-based semiconductor device according to the present invention includes a semiconductor multilayer structure supported on a substrate structure 101 with electrical conductivity. The principal surface of the substrate structure 101 has at least one vertical growth region, which functions as a seed crystal for growing a nitride-based semiconductor vertically, and a plurality of lateral growth regions for allowing the nitride-based semiconductor that has grown on the vertical growth region to grow laterally. The sum ΣX of the respective sizes of the vertical growth regions as measured in the direction pointed by the arrow A and the sum ΣY of the respective sizes of the lateral growth regions as measured in the same direction satisfy the inequality ΣX/ΣY>1.0.
US07704858B2 Methods of forming nickel silicide layers with low carbon content
A method for forming a nickel silicide layer on a MOS device with a low carbon content comprises providing a substrate within an ALD reactor and performing an ALD process cycle to form a nickel layer on the substrate, wherein the ALD process cycle comprises pulsing a nickel precursor into the reactor, purging the reactor after the nickel precursor, pulsing a mixture of hydrogen and silane into the reactor, and purging the reactor after the hydrogen and silane pulse. The ALD process cycle can be repeated until the nickel layer reaches a desired thickness. The silane used in the ALD process functions as a getterer for the advantageous carbon, resulting in a nickel layer that has a low carbon content. The nickel layer may then be annealed to form a nickel silicide layer with a low carbon content.
US07704855B2 Method for fabricating strained silicon-on-insulator structures and strained silicon-on-insulator structures formed thereby
A silicon-on-insulator (SOI) device and structure having locally strained regions in the silicon active layer formed by increasing the thickness of underlying regions of a buried insulating layer separating the silicon active layer from the substrate. The stress transferred from the underlying thickened regions of the insulating layer to the overlying strained regions increases carrier mobility in these confined regions of the active layer. Devices formed in and on the silicon active layer may benefit from the increased carrier mobility in the spaced-apart strained regions.
US07704854B2 Method for fabricating semiconductor device having conductive liner for rad hard total dose immunity
The invention relates to a method includes etching at least one shallow trench in at least an SIO layer; forming a dielectric liner at an interface of the SIO layer and the SIO layer; forming a metal or metal alloy layer in the shallow trench on the dielectric liner; and filling the shallow trench with oxide material over the metal or metal alloy.
US07704850B2 Semiconductor device for measuring an overlay error, method for measuring an overlay error, lithographic apparatus and device manufacturing method
A semiconductor device for determining an overlay error on a semiconductor substrate includes a first and a second transistor. Each transistor includes two diffusion regions associated with a gate, the diffusion regions of each transistor being arranged in a first direction. The second transistor is arranged adjacent to the first transistor in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The first and second gate each have a non-uniform shape, and the second gate is oriented with respect to an orientation of the first gate in such a way that an effect of an overlay error on a device parameter of the second transistor has an opposite sign in comparison to an effect of the overlay error on a corresponding device parameter of the first transistor.
US07704846B2 Substrate embedded with passive device
A method for manufacturing a substrate embedded with a passive device, comprising the steps of (a) molding the passive device and (b) mounting the molded passive device in a cavity formed on the substrate, is disclosed. The substrate embedded with a passive device and the manufacturing method thereof in accordance with the present invention can prevent warpage of the substrate caused by disproportioned properties of materials.
US07704845B2 Varactor and method for manufacturing the same
Disclosed is a varactor and/or variable capacitor. The varactor/variable capacitor includes a plurality of first conductive-type wells vertically formed on a substrate, a plurality of second conductive-type ion implantation areas formed in the first conductive-type wells, at least one second conductive-type plug electrically connected to the second conductive-type ion implantation areas, an isolation layer formed at sides of an uppermost second conductive-type ion implantation area, and a first conductive-type ion implantation area in an uppermost first conductive-type well electrically disconnected from the uppermost second conductive-type ion implantation area by the isolation area.
US07704837B2 Cell based integrated circuit and unit cell architecture therefor
A unit cell for an integrated circuit includes a first conductive type active region and a second conductive type active region which extend in a first direction. Each of the active regions has first and second ends. The first end of the second conductive type active region opposes the second end of the first conductive type active region. A poly-silicon pattern extends in the first direction across the first conductive type active region and second conductive type active region. A first contact region is adjacent the first end of the first conductive type active region in the first direction. A second contact region is adjacent the second end of the second conductive type active region in the first direction.
US07704836B2 Method of fabricating super trench MOSFET including buried source electrode
In a trench MOSFET, the lower portion of the trench contains a buried source electrode, which is insulated from the epitaxial layer and semiconductor substrate but in electrical contact with the source region. When the MOSFET is in an “off” condition, the bias of the buried source electrode causes the “drift” region of the mesa to become depleted, enhancing the ability of the MOSFET to block current. The doping concentration of the drift region can therefore be increased, reducing the on-resistance of the MOSFET. The buried source electrode also reduces the gate-to-drain capacitance of the MOSFET, improving the ability of the MOSFET to operate at high frequencies. The substrate may advantageously include a plurality of annular trenches separated by annular mesas and a gate metal layer that extends outward from a central region in a plurality of gate metal legs separated by source metal regions.
US07704833B2 Method of forming abrupt source drain metal gate transistors
A gate structure may be utilized as a mask to form source and drain regions. Then the gate structure may be removed to form a gap and spacers may be formed in the gap to define a trench. In the process of forming a trench into the substrate, a portion of the source drain region is removed. Then the substrate is filled back up with an epitaxial material and a new gate structure is formed thereover. As a result, more abrupt source drain junctions may be achieved.
US07704830B2 Split gate memory cell using sidewall spacers
A self-aligned split gate bitcell includes first and second regions of charge storage material separated by a gap devoid of charge storage material. Spacers are formed along sidewalls of sacrificial layer extending above and on opposite sides of the bitcell stack, wherein the spacers are separated from one another by at least a gap length. Etching the bitcell stack, selective to the spacers, forms a gap that splits the bitcell stack into first and second gates which together form the split gate bitcell stack. A storage portion of bitcell stack is also etched, wherein etching extends the gap and separates the corresponding layer into first and second separate regions, the extended gap being devoid of charge storage material. Dielectric material is deposited over the gap and etched back to expose a top surface of the sacrificial layer, which is thereafter removed to expose sidewalls of the split gate bitcell stack.
US07704829B2 Method for fabricating nonvolatile memory device
A nonvolatile memory device and method for fabricating the same are provided. The nonvolatile memory device includes an active region; a source region formed in the active region; a source line formed on the source region and electrically connected with the source region, to cross over the active region; word lines aligned at each sidewall of the source line to cross over the active region in parallel with the source line; and a charge storage layer interposed between the word lines and the active region. Since the word lines are formed at both sides of the source line using an anisotropic etch-back process, without photolithography, the area of a unit cell can be reduced.
US07704827B2 Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing the same
An epitaxial layer is formed on an n+ semiconductor substrate by epitaxial growth. A gate trench is formed to the surface of gate trench so that the bottom of gate trench reaches middle of the epitaxial layer. A gate insulator is formed on the inner wall of gate trench and a polysilicon is formed in the gate trench with the gate insulator interposed therebetween. An HTO film is formed on the surface of the polysilicon and the n− epitaxial layer. At this time, an ion plantation is performed to the epitaxial layer through the HTO film. Hence, a p diffused base layer, an n+ diffused source layer, an n+ diffused source layer is formed. A CVD oxide film is formed on the HTO film. After a BPSG having flowability is deposited on the CVD oxide film, the BPSG film is planarized with a heat treatment of 900-1100 degree Celsius.
US07704826B2 Leveling algorithm for semiconductor manufacturing equipment and related apparatus
A method of reading surface levels of a field defined on a substrate using a sensing apparatus having at least one cell array composed of a plurality of cells, in which some of the cells constituting the at least one cell array are selected and designated as available cells. Light is radiated onto a surface of the field. Light reflected to the available cells from the surface is sensed to extract available level signals. The available level signals may be calculated to read the surface level of the field. The surface level of the field are used in a method of controlling the level of an exposure apparatus controlling the substrate mounted on a leveling stage in up, down, right, left, front, back, and rotational directions using the surface level.
US07704825B2 Method of fabricating memory including diode
A memory capable of reducing the memory cell size is provided. This memory includes a first conductive type first impurity region formed on a memory cell array region of the main surface of a semiconductor substrate for functioning as a first electrode of a diode included in a memory cell and a plurality of second conductive type second impurity regions, formed on the surface of the first impurity region at a prescribed interval, each functioning as a second electrode of the diode.
US07704817B2 Method for manufacturing semiconductor device
Embodiments relate to a semiconductor device and a method of manufacturing the same. According to embodiments, a semiconductor device may include a gate insulating layer and a gate electrode formed on a semiconductor substrate with an isolation layer, a low-density junction region formed at both sides of the gate electrode, a patterned insulating layer formed while exposing a portion of the low-density junction region, and a high-density junction region formed beneath the exposed low-density junction region of the semiconductor substrate.
US07704809B2 Silicon-on-insulator chip with multiple crystal orientations
A silicon-on-insulator chip includes an insulator layer, typically formed over a substrate. A first silicon island with a surface of a first crystal orientation overlies the insulator layer and a second silicon island with a surface of a second crystal orientation also overlies the insulator layer. In one embodiment, the silicon-on-insulator chip also includes a first transistor of a first conduction type formed on the first silicon island, and a second transistor of a second conduction type formed on the second silicon island. For example, the first crystal orientation can be (110) while the first transistor is a p-channel transistor, and the second crystal orientation can be (100) while the second transistor is an n-channel transistor.
US07704807B2 Multi-channel type thin film transistor and method of fabricating the same
A multi-channel type thin film transistor includes a gate electrode over a substrate extending along a first direction, a plurality of active layers parallel to and spaced apart from each other extending along a second direction crossing the first direction, and source and drain electrodes spaced apart from each other with respect to the gate electrode and extending along the first direction, wherein each of the plurality of active layers includes a channel region overlapped with the gate electrode, a source region, a drain region, and lightly doped drain (LDD) regions, one between the channel region and the source region and another one between the channel region and the drain region, wherein the LDD regions of the adjacent active layers have different lengths from each other.
US07704806B2 Thin film transistor having silicon nanowire and method of fabricating the same
A thin film transistor includes: a silicon nanowire on a substrate, the silicon nanowire having a central portion and both side portions of the central portion; a gate electrode on the central portion; and a source electrode and a drain electrode spaced apart from the source electrode on the both side portions, the source electrode and the drain electrode electrically connected to the silicon nanowire, respectively.
US07704804B2 Method of forming a crack stop laser fuse with fixed passivation layer coverage
A crack stop void is formed in a low-k dielectric or silicon oxide layer between adjacent fuse structures for preventing propagation of cracks between the adjacent fuse structures during a fuse blow operation. The passivation layer is fixed in place by using an etch stop shape of conducting material which is formed simultaneously with the formation of the interconnect structure. This produces a reliable and repeatable fuse structure that has controllable passivation layer over the fuse structure that is easily manufactured.
US07704801B2 Resin for sealing semiconductor device, resin-sealed semiconductor device and the method of manufacturing the semiconductor device
A resin sealed semiconductor device includes a semiconductor chip having a main surface, a plurality of surface electrodes formed on the main surface of the chip, a plurality of projection electrodes formed the main surface, each projection electrode being connected to respective one surface electrodes, and a resin shield covering the main surface, the surface electrodes and side surfaces of the projection electrodes, the resin having a thermal expansion coefficient in the range of 8-10 ppm/° C. and a Young's modulus in the range of 1.8-2.0 Gpa.
US07704796B2 Semiconductor device and method of forming recessed conductive vias in saw streets
A semiconductor die has an insulating material disposed in a peripheral region around the die. A blind via is formed through the gap. A conductive material is deposited in the blind via to form a conductive via. A conductive layer is formed between the conductive via and contact pad on the semiconductor die. A protective layer is formed over the front side of the semiconductor die. A portion of the insulating material and conductive via is removed from a backside of the semiconductor die opposite the front side of the semiconductor die so that a thickness of the conductive via is less than a thickness of the semiconductor wafer. The insulating material and conductive via are tapered. The wafer is singulated through the gap to separate the semiconductor die. A plurality of semiconductor die can be stacked and electrically interconnected through the conductive vias.
US07704777B2 Method for producing semiconductor device
A method for producing a semiconductor device includes bonding a transfer layer disposed on a first substrate to a second substrate and detaching the transfer layer from the first substrate. In bonding the transfer layer disposed on the first substrate to the second substrate, the method further includes placing a seal having a frame shape on a surface of the first substrate on which the transfer layer is disposed or a surface of the second substrate facing the first substrate, placing an adhesive in a region inside the seal, and superposing the surface of the first substrate on which the transfer layer is disposed on the second substrate with the seal and the adhesive. The seal and the adhesive are incompatible with each other. The seal and the adhesive are not cured in the period from placing the seal to superposing the surface of the first substrate on which the transfer layer is disposed on the second substrate.
US07704768B2 Method of fabricating liquid crystal display
A liquid crystal display device includes a driving circuit provided with a switching device on a liquid crystal display panel, the switching device including a plurality of thin film transistors connected in parallel and commonly interconnected using a gate electrode.
US07704765B2 Method for manufacturing semiconductor device
It is an object of the present invention to provide a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device, capable of keeping a peeling layer from being peeled from a substrate in the phase before the completion of a semiconductor element and peeling a semiconductor element rapidly. It is considered that a peeling layer tends to be peeled from a substrate because the stress is applied to a peeling layer due to the difference in thermal expansion coefficient between a substrate and a peeling layer, or because the volume of a peeling layer is reduced and thus the stress is applied thereto by crystallization of the peeling layer due to heat treatment. Therefore, according to one feature of the invention, the adhesion of a substrate and a peeling layer is enhanced by forming an insulating film (buffer film) for relieving the stress on the peeling layer between the substrate and the peeling layer before forming the peeling layer over the substrate.
US07704762B2 Lamp and method of producing a lamp
A method of producing a lamp, including: mounting light emitting junctions in respective receptacles; mounting the receptacles on a curved support structure so as to form a three-dimensional array; and placing the light emitting junctions in electrical connection with the support structure.
US07704750B2 Visual spill indicator
Composition, which includes a dye that changes color when contacted with a suitable amount of an organic substance, in conjunction with a matrix, paste, support or web, can indicate visually or photometrically the presence of the organic substance. An organic spill absorbing material may be present. For instance, the dye may be selected from the class of anthracene, azo, anthraquinone, pyrazolone, and quinone dyes, and be hydrophobic and organic oleophilic. For an example, the dye may be Oil Red “A.” The matrix, paste, support or web may include a microfiber cloth, which may be coated with an adhesive for attachment of the dye, and/or include a water-dissolving paper which may envelope the dye. A device for ascertaining whether an organic substance is present includes the dye or composition with the dye at a certain locale, and a light-transmissive pathway in communication with the location and a detection site external the location. A spectral instrument may be included for the detection, and a remote monitor site may be in communication with the instrument. Various organic substances can be detected, to include oils and gasoline.
US07704741B2 Method and device for the formation of biological cell material
A method for producing cell material (20) having multiple biological cells (21), which have a predefined geometrical arrangement, includes the steps of providing a manipulation tool (10) having a tool body (11), whose surface (12, 14) at least partially contacts the cell material (20), and adjusting the manipulation tool (10) using a change of geometrical properties of the surface (12, 14) in such a way that the geometrical arrangement of the cells (21) is changed. A manipulation tool for performing a method of this type is also described.
US07704738B2 Definitive endoderm
Disclosed herein are cell cultures comprising definitive endoderm cells and methods of producing the same. Also disclosed herein are cell populations comprising substantially purified definitive endoderm cells as well as methods for enriching, isolating and purifying definitive endoderm cells from other cell types.
US07704732B2 Fermentation unit with liquid nitrogen cooling
An integrated industrial plant includes various systems, all of which use a cryogenic liquid obtained from a common source. One system includes a fermentation unit, in which cold air, chilled by heat exchange with the cryogenic liquid, absorbs excess heat generated by the fermentation. Another system is a lyophilization unit, in which a refrigeration step is performed through the use of air that has been chilled by heat exchange with the cryogenic liquid. Another system is a device for freezing discrete samples of biological products, the samples being frozen by partial immersion in the cryogenic liquid. The invention substantially reduces the use of electric power, and provides systems which operate economically and reliably.
US07704731B2 System and method for quantifying toxicity in water, soil, and sediments
A toxicity test system comprising an aqueous suspension of dinoflagellates; a test chamber capable of containing the aqueous suspension and a test sample; an optical signal generator capable of emitting an excitation signal, which is capable of exciting the dinoflagellates to emit a fluorescence signal if the dinoflagellates are alive; a first optical transducer capable of producing a first data signal in response to detecting to the fluorescence signal; a stimulator capable of generating a pressure pulse, which is capable of stimulating the dinoflagellates to emit a bioluminescence signal if the dinoflagellates are alive; a second optical transducer capable producing a second data signal in response to detecting the bioluminescence signal; and an analyzer disposed to compare the first data signal and the second data signal to a control data to generate an output representative of the toxicity of the test sample.
US07704728B2 Microfluidic gravity pump with constant flow rate
A microfluidic system employs a microchannel and a gravity driven pump comprising horizontally oriented fluid supply reservoirs which supplies fluid to the microchannel at a substantially constant rate. The device is useful for numerous microfluidic applications, for example in the culture and/or treatment of biological systems under constant flow-induced stress, cell-size sorting, motile sperm sorting, or embryo culture.
US07704718B2 Method of reducing the viscosity of mucus
Disclosed is a pO157 plasmid-specified polypeptide found in E. coli EDL933 and other E. coli that binds to and cleaves C1-esterase inhibitor, and antibodies specific for the polypeptide. Also disclosed are methods employing the polypeptide for diagnosing enterohemorrhagic E. coli infection, identifying potential inhibitors of its activity, and reducing viscosity of material containing glycosylated polypeptides.
US07704716B2 Geraniol synthase, methods of production and uses thereof
The present invention relates to novel type of monoterpene synthase, a key enzyme in the production of the monoterpene aroma compound geraniol. More specifically, the present invention relates to nucleic acid sequences coding for CUES from flowers and herbs species, in particular sweet basil, as well as to vectors containing the sequences, to host cells containing the sequences and to methods of producing recombinant GES, its products, and uses thereof.
US07704709B2 Modified human granulocyte-colony stimulating factor and process for producing same
A modified human granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (hG-CSF) is produced by culturing a microorganism transformed with an expression vector comprising a gene encoding a modified hG-CSF to produce and secrete the modified hG-CSF to periplasm, said modified hG-CSF being obtained by replacing at least one of the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 17th amino acids of wild-type hG-CSF (SEQ ID NO: 2) with other amino acid.
US07704708B2 Monomeric streptavidin muteins
The invention includes a streptavidin mutein having at least one mutation chosen to cause one or more of steric hindrance, charge repulsion, or improvement of solubility by changing interfacial hydrophobic residues to less hydrophobic or hydrophilic residues. The mutein may exist in monomeric form even in the presence of biotin, and reversibly binds to biotin. The invention also includes polynucleotides encoding such muteins, expression systems and host cells for producing such muteins. The invention also includes a method of capturing biotinylated molecules using the muteins of the invention.
US07704700B2 Methods for determining the prognosis for patients with a prostate neoplastic condition using inhibitor of apoptosis polypeptides
The invention provides a method of determining a prognosis for survival for a patient with a prostate neoplastic condition. The method consists of (a) measuring the level of XIAP in a neoplastic prostate cell-containing sample from the patient, and (b) comparing the level of XIAP in the sample to a reference level of XIAP, where an increased level of XIAP in the sample correlates with increased survival of the patient.
US07704697B2 Protein which can be used, in particular, for the in vitro isolation and prevention of Legionella pneumophila infections
The invention relates to novel polynucleotides, including SEQ ID NO: 1 or parts or variants of the sequence, novel polypeptides encoded by the polynucleotides, expression vectors including the polynucleotides and host cells including the expression vectors. The polynucleotides and polypeptides can be used in the field of in vitro diagnosis and/or for production of vaccines against Legionella pneumophila.
US07704693B1 Age determination from biological stains using messenger RNA profiling analysis
Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) assays, systems, methods and kits for the age determination of an individual from bloodstains or samples of unknown origin. The methodology is based on gene expression profiling analysis in which novel human newborn fetal specific genes are identified by detecting the presence of appropriate messenger RNA species.
US07704689B2 Method for generating hypermutable plants
Blockade of mismatch repair in a plant can lead to hypermutation and a new genotype and/or phenotype. One approach used to generate hypermutable plants is through the expression of dominant negative alleles of mismatch repair genes in transgenic plants or derived cells. By introducing these genes into cells and transgenic plants, new cell lines and plant varieties with novel and useful properties can be prepared more efficiently than by relying on the natural rate of mutation. Moreover, methods to inhibit the expression and activity of endogenous plant MMR genes and their encoded products are also useful to generate hypermutable plants.
US07704681B2 Manufacturing method for pixel structure
A manufacturing method for a pixel structure is provided. The method includes the following steps. A first photomask is used to form a source/drain on a substrate. A second photomask is used twice to form a transparent conductive layer and a channel layer on the substrate respectively. The transparent conductive layer covers a portion of the source/drain and is electrically connected with the same, and the pattern of the transparent conductive layer and the pattern of the channel layer are complementary patterns. Then, a dielectric layer is formed over the substrate to cover the transparent conductive layer and the channel layer. A third photomask is used to form a gate on the dielectric layer.
US07704677B2 Method of patterning conductive polymer layer, organic light emitting device, and method of manufacturing the organic light emitting device
A method of patterning a conductive polymer, an organic light emitting device (OLED) manufactured using the method of patterning a conductive polymer, and a method of manufacturing the OLED are provided. The method of patterning a conductive polymer includes forming a conductive polymer layer on a substrate, aligning a shadow mask above the conductive polymer layer, and forming a conductive polymer pattern area and an insulating area in the conductive polymer layer by radiating charged particle beams through the shadow mask.
US07704676B2 Block copolymers having distinct isoprene and butadiene midblocks, method for making same, and uses for such block copolymers
A block terpolymer for use in photocurable compositions, flexographic printing plates or hot melt adhesives having a molecular structure according to the general formula: A-I-B-I-A  (1) or (A-I-B)n-X  (2), wherein each A is independently a polymer block of predominantly an aromatic vinyl compound, each I is predominantly isoprene, each B is predominantly butadiene, n is an integer equal to or greater than 2, and X is the residue of a coupling agent, and wherein: (a) the weight ratio of I to B is in a range of 30:70 to 70:30; (b) the aromatic vinyl compound content of the block copolymer is from about 14 to about 45%; (c) the B block has a 1,2-vinyl bond content in the range of from about 20 to about 90 mol %; (d) the A block has an apparent molecular weight in the range of from about 5,000 to about 20,000, and the I and B blocks together have a molecular weight in the range of from about 50,000 to about 200,000; (e) uncoupled triblock, S-I-B in the range of from about 2% to about 60%.
US07704674B1 Method for patterning a photo-resist in an immersion lithography process
A method for patterning a photo-resist in an immersion lithography process is described. The method includes forming a photo-resist layer above a substrate. A hydrophobic and contrast-enhancing barrier layer is formed above the photo-resist layer. The photo-resist layer is exposed, through the hydrophobic and contrast-enhancing barrier layer, to a light source. The photo-resist layer is developed to provide a patterned photo-resist layer.
US07704673B2 Prevention of photoresist scumming
A photo acid generator (PAG) or an acid is used to reduce resist scumming and footing. Diffusion of acid from photoresist into neighbors causes a decreased acid level, and thus causes resist scumming. An increased acid layer beneath the resist prevents acid diffusion. In one embodiment, the increased acid layer is a layer of spun-on acid or PAG dissolved in aqueous solution. In another embodiment, the increased acid layer is a hard mask material with a PAG or an acid mixed into the material. The high acid content inhibits the diffusion of acid from the photoresist into neighboring layers, and thus substantially reduces photoresist scumming and footing.
US07704672B2 Photosensitive silane coupling agent, method of modifying surface, method of forming pattern, and method of fabricating device
Provided are a photosensitive silane coupling agent for forming a low-defect microparticle pattern, dot array pattern, or hole array pattern through fewer steps, and a method of forming a pattern using such photosensitive silane coupling agent. Used is a photosensitive silane coupling agent comprising a 1,2-naphthoquinone-2-diazido-5-sulfonyl group or a 1,2-naphthoquinone-2-diazido-4-sulfonyl group.
US07704658B2 Imaging member having nano polymeric gel particles in various layers
Imaging members useful in electrostatographic apparatuses, including printers, copiers, other reproductive devices, and digital apparatuses. More particularly, imaging members having nano polymeric gel particles embedded into one or more layers of the imaging member that provide for increased mechanical strength and improved wear.
US07704649B2 Method of fabricating color filter
A method of manufacturing a color filter forming a black matrix on a substrate, the black matrix defining a plurality of pixels, forming liquid ink layers within the pixels and drying the liquid ink layers, penetrating solvent vapor into surfaces of the dried liquid ink layers to form ink layers have mobile surfaces, and drying the ink layers having the mobile surfaces.
US07704644B2 Zero-alignment method for tunable fabrication of three-dimensional photonic crystals by multiple-exposure laser interference using diffraction gratings patterned on a single mask
A method for fabricating three-dimensional photonic crystal structures includes providing a layer of photosensitive material; introducing a laser beams into the material; reintroducing the laser beams into the photosensitive material during a second exposure; combining results from at least the first and second exposures to produce a three-dimensionally periodic pattern in the photosensitive material. A related system includes a laser source; a grating array having a plurality of diffraction gratings located thereon; a mask plate located on a photoresist layer and arranged in registration with the grating array; a rotating shutter arranged between the grating array and the laser source, said rotating shutter being suitable for periodically blocking light from the laser source; wherein each of the diffraction gratings is positioned and oriented so as to converge all first-order diffracted spots to a common point lying in a plane of a back side of the mask plate.
US07704642B2 Cationic conductor, its intermediate, and lithium secondary battery using the conductor
The disclosure discloses a polymer represented by the general formula, wherein Rp is a residue of a polymer of a compound having a polymerizable unsaturated bond, Q is an organic residue of n+1 valences and connected directly or through another group to Rp by means of a single bond, Mk+ is a cation of k valence, Z is an organic function group capable of forming an ionic bond with cation Mk+ or an organic function group having a coordination capability with Mk+, and m, n and k are integers of one or more. The disclosure also discloses an intermediate of the polymer mentioned above.
US07704641B2 Organic/inorganic composite porous film and electrochemical device prepared thereby
Disclosed is an organic/inorganic composite porous film comprising: (a) a porous substrate having pores; and (b) an active layer formed by coating a surface of the substrate or a part of the pores in the substrate with a mixture of inorganic particles and a binder polymer, wherein the inorganic particles in the active layer are interconnected among themselves and are fixed by the binder polymer, and interstitial volumes among the inorganic particles form a pore structure. A method for manufacturing the same film and an electrochemical device including the same film are also disclosed. An electrochemical device comprising the organic/inorganic composite porous film shows improved safety and quality, simultaneously.
US07704637B2 Lithium ion battery
A lithium ion battery characterized in that a porous elastomer made of non-metal material is provided among the positive and negative electrodes groups, or between the electrodes groups and the inner wall of the shell and the elastomer is in the shape of sheet or stick. The thickness of the elastomer is 0.5 mm-5.0 mm, and the porosity is 10%-80%. The said battery can avoid effectively the expansion of the shell during the cycle of charge and discharge, and can be processed conveniently, and the cyclic life and safety property of the battery can be improved effectively.
US07704630B2 Fuel cell with a large exchange surface area
A support wafer made of silicon wafer comprising, on a first surface a porous silicon layer having protrusions, porous silicon pillars extending from the porous silicon layer to the second surface of the wafer, in front of each protrusion. Layers constituting a fuel cell can be formed on the support wafer.
US07704628B2 Platinum, titanium, cobalt and palladium containing electrocatalysts
The present teachings are directed toward electrocatalyst compositions of platinum, titanium and at least a third metal for use in fuel cells. The electrocatalyst composition is composed essentially of platinum present in an atomic percentage ranging between about 50 percent and about 85 percent, titanium present in an atomic percentage ranging between about 5 percent and about 30 percent, and at least a third metal present in an atomic percentage ranging between about 1 percent and about 30 percent. The third metal can be at least one member selected from the group consisting of cobalt, ruthenium, rhodium, palladium, silver, osmium, iridium and gold.
US07704621B2 Batteries and battery systems
A battery includes a cathode having an interior surface and an exterior surface, and defining a cavity and two open ends; a separator disposed adjacent to the interior surface of the cathode; an anode disposed adjacent to the separator and inside the cavity; an air-permeable, liquid-impermeable barrier layer disposed adjacent to the exterior surface of the cathode, and defining an exterior surface of the battery; two end members connected to the open ends of the cathode; and an anode current collector extending through the two end members. Methods designed such a battery is also disclosed.
US07704616B2 Method for purging fuel cell system
A method for purging a fuel cell system comprises detecting a signal for stopping an operation of a fuel cell system, cutting off an electricity output of the fuel cell system, driving a steam generator of a fuel supply unit of the fuel cell system for a certain time and thereby generating steam, certifying whether a purging operation of the fuel cell system has been completed or not, and stopping the fuel cell system, in which the fuel cell system is purged by using steam generated by the steam generator. Since an additional container for storing nitrogen is not required, a fabrication cost is reduced. Also, inconvenience caused by periodically containing nitrogen in the container is solved. Furthermore, when the fuel cell system is used at home, an additional space for installing the nitrogen container is not required and the fuel cell system can be easily installed.
US07704614B2 Process for fabricating patterned magnetic recording media
A method of fabricating a patterned magnetic recording medium, comprises steps of: (a) providing a layer stack including an uppermost non-magnetic interlayer; (b) forming a resist layer on the interlayer; (c) forming a first pattern comprising a first group of recesses extending through the resist layer and exposing a first group of spaced apart surface portions of the interlayer; (d) filling the first group of recesses with a layer of a hard mask material; (e) selectively removing the resist layer to form a second pattern comprising a second group of recesses extending through the hard mask layer and exposing a second group of spaced apart surface portions of the interlayer; and (f) filling the second group of recesses with a layer of a magnetically hard material forming a magnetic recording layer.
US07704611B2 Hard, wear-resistant aluminum nitride based coating
A hard, wear-resistant aluminum nitride based coating of composition AlxSiyMezN is proposed; x, y and z denote atomic fractions, the sum of which is between 0.95 and 1.05, and wherein Me is a metal dopant of group III to VIII and Ib transition metals or a combination thereof. The metal provides, during the coating process, an intrinsic electrical conductivity higher than the coating without the metal doping. The silicon content is in between 0.01≦y≦0.4 and the content of the metal dopant or dopants Me is 0.001≦z≦0.8, preferably 0.01≦z≦0.05 and most preferably 0.015≦z≦0.045.
US07704607B2 Silicone rubber compositions for the sealing and encapsulation of electric and electronic parts
A silicone rubber composition containing 0.5-90% by weight of a metal powder and curable into a non-conductive silicone rubber having a volume resistivity of at least 1×109 Ω·cm is useful for the sealing and encapsulation of electric and electronic parts because the metal powder is sulfided with a sulfur gas into a metal sulfide powder which prevents or retards the sulfur gas from reaching the electric and electronic parts.
US07704604B2 Silicate coating and method of coating by acoustic excitation
The invention relates to a method for forming a silicate coating on particles and to the particles thus obtained, characterized in that a solution containing silicate is added to a dispersion of uncoated particles having a diameter of less than 50 μm and acoustic excitation occurs.
US07704593B2 Cutting tool and method of producing the same
A cutting tool having coating layers which are formed on the cutting tool substrate made of hard material, and the coating layers are composed of an inner layer of AlTiN, an interlayer of TiN, and an outer layer of Al2O3. The cutting tool is preferably produced by subjecting its substrate to surface-cleaning and surface treating by projection of flexible abrasives before forming the coating layers. The total thickness of the coating layer on a flank of the cutting tool is preferably in the range of 2 to 80 μm, and, further, it is preferable that thicknesses of the inner layer, the interlayer, and the outer layer on the flank are 0.5 to 35 μm, 1.0 to 40 μm, and 0.5 to 5 μm, respectively.
US07704592B2 Multilayer polymeric product based on polyethylene terephthalate and polycarbonate and its use as a building material
A multilayer polymeric product is described, which consists of a co-extruded internal central layer of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) copolymer, in a quantity ranging from 80 to 90% by weight with respect to the total weight of the internal layer, mixed with polycarbonate (PC), in a quantity ranging from 10 to 20% by weight with respect to the total weight of the layer, and outer, side layers, of a blend of PET, in a quantity ranging from 15 to 25% by weight with respect to the total weight of the outer layers, and PC, in a quantity ranging from 75 to 85% by weight with respect to the total weight of said outer layers, in particular for use as a building material.
US07704588B1 Decorative tie member and method of use therefor
A decorative tie member for securing a ribbon about a gift package is disclosed. The tie member has an underside for placement against a package and a generally oppositely facing decorative surface. The tie member is provided with at least one inner opening and first and second outer openings. To secure a ribbon about a package with the tie member, a free end of the ribbon is threaded through an inner opening from the underside surface of the tie member to and through the exposed decorative surface of the tie member. The free end is then threaded back through the tie member through the tie member's first outer opening and the threading is continued until a desired excess portion of the ribbon has been threaded through the openings. The process is then repeated with the other free end of the ribbon through an inner opening and the second outer opening located on the other side of the tie member. Then, the now threaded free ends of the ribbon are grasped and pulled apart from each other to cinch the ribbon and tie member tightly against the package.
US07704576B2 Thermal transfer sheet, process for producing the same, and image formed object produced by transfer of said thermal transfer sheet
This invention provides a hologram thermal transfer sheet that can realize thermal transfer treatment with high efficiency. The thermal transfer sheet comprises a base material sheet and a transparent transfer layer provided separably on the base material sheet, characterized in that a hologram layer is provided on at least a part of the transparent transfer layer. There are also provided a process for producing the thermal transfer sheet and an image formed material produced by the transfer of this thermal transfer sheet.
US07704572B2 Adhesive for polarizing plate, polarizing plate, method for producing same, optical film and image display
An adhesive for polarizing plate used in order to provide a transparent protective film on at least one surface of a polarizer, comprising a crosslinking agent in the range of more than 30 parts by weight and 46 parts by weight or less relative to 100 parts by weight of a polyvinyl alcohol-based resin having an acetoacetyl group, is excellent in water resistance.
US07704571B2 Liquid crystal composition, color filter and liquid crystal display apparatus, and method of forming phase difference layer
An object of the invention is to provide a liquid crystal composition intended to be applied to the surface of a base material to form a phase difference layer, the liquid crystal composition being capable of forming a phase difference layer well indicating homeotropic orientation without the presence of an oriented film, even if the liquid crystal composition is directly applied to the base material surface, as well as a phase difference layer formed by the liquid crystal composition, a color filter and a liquid crystal display apparatus using the phase difference layer, and further a method of forming the phase difference layer. To a liquid crystal composition containing one kind or two or more kinds of crosslinking liquid crystal compounds is further added at least an amino-based silane coupling agent to prepare a liquid crystal composition. The liquid crystal composition is directly applied to the surface of a base material to orient the crosslinking liquid crystal compound on the base material surface in a direction perpendicular to the base material surface, and then the resulting material is crosslinking polymerized to form a phase difference layer.
US07704567B2 Liquid-crystalline medium comprising fluorinated indane compound
The invention relates to a liquid-crystalline medium based on a mixture of polar compounds of negative dielectric anisotropy, which comprises at least one compound of the formula I in which R11, R12, A1, A2, Z1, Z2, m and n are as defined in Claim 1, and to the use thereof for an active-matrix display based on the ECB, PALC or IPS effect.
US07704566B2 Liquid crystalline medium
The invention relates to a liquid-crystalline medium based on a mixture of polar compounds of positive dielectric anisotropy, characterised in that it comprises one or more compounds of the formula I and one or more compounds of the formula IA in which R1, R2 ring A, ring B, L1-4, Z1, Z2, X1, X2 and a are as defined in claim 1, where the proportion of the compounds of the formula I in the medium is at least 18% by weight.
US07704558B2 Cleaning article containing hydrophilic polymers
The invention relates to a cloth that can function as a moisturizing cleanser. When the cloth is moistened with water, it works up into a warm, sudsy cleansing lotion that feels great and works well as a facial cleansing cloth. The cloth contains water, at least one surfactant and at least one hydrophilic polymer.
US07704549B2 Nanomaterials of composite metal oxides
Exchangeable metal ions are removed from an amorphous composite metal oxide and different metal ions are introduced to manufacture a nanomaterial of composite metal oxide. Based on this method, it is possible to reliably form composite metal oxide nanomaterials over a wide range of compositions.
US07704546B2 Ceramic in replacement components
A method and apparatus for a prosthesis. At least a portion of the prosthesis is made from a ceramic that is treated with ion implantation, which causes a controllable, bilateral compressive stress of the ceramic. A diamond-like-coating (DLC) can be coated on the ceramic and in the same chamber as the ion implantation. After treating by ion implantation and coating with DLC, the ceramic will be strengthened and have a low coefficient of friction and thereby be made much less likely to fracture under load.
US07704544B2 System and method for coating a tubular implantable medical device
A system and method for coating a tubular implantable medical device, such as a stent, using an applicator and a coating composition are provided.
US07704542B2 Vitamin/mineral compositions with DHA
Compositions containing the fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in combination with at least one vitamin and mineral are provided to supplement nutrition in a mammalian diet. DHA is present in the composition in concentrated amounts, advantageously in a carrier such as marinol oil, to allow for quantities of DHA sufficient to supply expectant and new mothers and their children as recommended on a daily basis. This DHA may also be used to treat a variety of disorders in children and adults. The compositions advantageously include vitamins, minerals, and optionally other nutrients to provide a nutritional supplement which may be convenient to swallow and taken once a day.
US07704524B2 Transdermal botulinum toxin administration for the treatment of spastic muscle pain
Pharmaceutical compositions for transdermal administration of neurotoxins to a patient include a neurotoxin, such as a botulinum toxin, and an enhancing agent that facilitates absorption of the neurotoxin through the skin of the patient and does not eliminate the bioactivity associated with the neurotoxin. The pharmaceutical compositions are topically applied on a patient, and may be provided in a transdermal patch.
US07704503B2 Use of IL-17F in diagnosis and therapy of airway inflammation
The invention is related to findings that IL-17F-mediated inflammation of airway passages may be mediated via signaling through IL-17R on the basolateral surface of human respiratory epithelial cells. Thus, the present invention provides isolated and purified IL-17F or IL-17R polynucleotides and polypeptides. The present invention also is directed to novel methods for screening test compounds capable of inhibiting, i.e., decreasing, limiting, blocking, or otherwise reducing, IL-17F bioactivity, and methods for diagnosing, prognosing, and monitoring the progress of, disorders related to IL-17F bioactivity, e.g., disorders related to the effects of IL-17F binding to IL-17R on airway inflammation, e.g., in patients with cystic fibrosis, including pulmonary exacerbations due to bacterial infections in same. The present invention is further directed to novel therapeutics and therapeutic targets and to methods for the intervention (treatment) and prevention of said disorders related to IL-17F bioactivity.
US07704502B2 Combinations of antibodies selective for DR5 and other therapeutic agents
An antibody of the invention interacts with human DR5 or with human DR4 to produce agonistic or antagonistic effects downstream of the receptor including inhibition of cell proliferation and apoptosis. Methods and uses for the antibodies, optionally in combination with various therapeutic agents, are detailed, including treatment of apoptosis-related disease and treatment of dysregulated cell growth.
US07704501B2 Antibodies binding to human ataxin-1-like polypeptide
This invention relates to IMX97018, a new members of the human ataxin-1-like polypeptide family, methods of making such polypeptides, and to methods of using them to diagnose and treat neurological conditions and to identify compounds that alter IMX97018 polypeptide activities.
US07704497B2 Molecules with extended half-lives, compositions and uses thereof
The present invention provides molecules, including IgGs, non-IgG immunoglobulins, proteins and non-protein agents, that have increased in vivo half-lives due to the presence of an IgG constant domain, or a portion thereof that binds the FcRn, having one or more amino acid modifications that increase the affinity of the constant domain or fragment for FcRn. Such proteins and molecules with increased half-lives have the advantage that smaller amounts and or less frequent dosing is required in the therapeutic, prophylactic or diagnostic use of such molecules.
US07704496B2 Antibodies against PRO1341 polypeptide
The present invention is directed to novel polypeptides and to nucleic acid molecules encoding those polypeptides. Also provided herein are vectors and host cells comprising those nucleic acid sequences, chimeric polypeptide molecules comprising the polypeptides of the present invention fused to heterologous polypeptide sequences, antibodies which bind to the polypeptides of the present invention and to methods for producing the polypeptides of the present invention.
US07704490B2 Method for inducing selected useful activities of IL-2 in a patient with peptides from IL-2
The present invention relates to new peptides of IL-2, and derivatives thereof and their use as therapeutic agents.
US07704483B2 High surface area tetragonal zirconia and processes for synthesizing same
A zirconia-containing composition and processes for synthesizing same. The composition comprises least about 99.9 percent tetragonal phase zirconia, based on the total crystalline zirconia in the zirconia-containing composition as determined by x-ray diffraction (XRD). The composition also has a substantially spherical morphology and comprises less than 100 wppm chlorine, based on the total weight of the zirconia-containing composition. The zirconia-containing composition has an average surface area of at least 80 m2/g and an average particle size of less than about 10 microns.
US07704479B2 Highly accessible, nanotube electrodes for large surface area contact applications
An highly porous electrically conducting film that includes a plurality of carbon nanotubes, nanowires or a combination of both. The highly porous electrically conducting film exhibits an electrical resistivity of less than 0.1 O·cm at 25 C and a density of between 0.05 and 0.70 g/cm3. The film can exhibit a density between 0.50 and 0.85 g/cm3 and an electrical resistivity of less than 6×10−3 O·cm at 25 C. Also included is a method of forming these highly porous electrically conducting films by forming a composite film using carbon nanotubes or nanowires and sacrificial nanoparticles or microparticles. At least a portion of the nanoparticles or microparticles are then removed from the composite film to form the highly porous electrically conducting film.
US07704475B2 Zeolite catalyst with improved NOx reduction in SCR
The present invention is directed to a novel metal-promoted zeolite catalyst, a method of producing the catalyst and a method of using the catalyst for the selective catalytic reduction of NOx with improved hydrothermal durability. The novel metal-promoted zeolite is formed from a low sodium zeolite and is hydrothermally treated after metal ion-exchange.
US07704473B2 Method and device for controlling exhaust emission from internal combustion engine
A purification method excellent in removing particulates or the like from exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine, in particular, a diesel engine or the like. The purification method uses an exhaust gas purification apparatus including an oxidation zone installed with an oxidation catalyst supporting both platinum and palladium, and a filtering zone installed with a particulate filter, along exhaust gas flow at the exhaust gas passage of an internal combustion engine. Hydrocarbon-based liquid is supplied to the inflow side of the exhaust gas of the oxidation zone at the time when 2 to 10 g of particulates per 1 liter of the particulate filter are caught, to raise temperature of the exhaust gas up to equal to or higher than 550° C. by the oxidation catalyst so as to make the residue of the particulate filter combusted.
US07704470B2 Removal of contaminants from by-product acids
The present invention is drawn to a method for removing colloidal titanium dioxide and titanium oxychloride from by-product hydrochloric acid. The method includes adding phosphate ion source and quaternary amine to the by-product acid to cause the titanium dioxide and the titanium oxychloride to form a precipitate. The precipitate can then be separated from the acid, thus producing a decontaminated hydrochloric acid product with reduced levels of titanium.
US07704469B2 Method for the recovery of ruthenium from used ruthenium oxide-containing catalysts
The invention relates to a process for recovering ruthenium from a used ruthenium-comprising catalyst which comprises ruthenium as ruthenium oxide on a support material which is sparingly soluble in mineral acid, which comprises the steps: a) the catalyst comprising ruthenium oxide is treated in a stream of hydrogen, with ruthenium oxide present on the support being reduced to metallic ruthenium; b) the reduced catalyst from step a) comprising metallic ruthenium on the support material is treated with hydrochloric acid in the presence of an oxygen-comprising gas, with the metallic ruthenium present on the support being dissolved as ruthenium(III) chloride and being obtained as ruthenium(III) chloride solution; c) if appropriate, the ruthenium(III) chloride solution from step b) is worked up further.
US07704468B1 Method for forming an extraction agent for the separation of actinides from lanthanides
An extraction agent for the separation of trivalent actinides from lanthanides in an acidic media and a method for forming same are described, and wherein the methodology produces a stable regiospecific and/or stereospecific dithiophosphinic acid that can operate in an acidic media having a pH of less than about 7.
US07704463B2 Low voltage ultraviolet HVAC light
This UV light system for use in a central air handling unit of a heating or air conditioning system includes a UV light source and is adapted for operation on, and receives power from, an approximately 24VAC low voltage power supply for a thermostat of the heating or air conditioning system. In its preferred embodiments it is provided with a mounting system including a bendable “Z” shaped mounting bracket, which bracket can be bent to multiple angles allowing the UV light source to be positioned in numerous ways within the central air handling unit. It is preferably packaged in a cylindrical packing case where the elongate cylindrical emitter portion of the UV light source is aligned with the axis of the case.
US07704454B1 Methods and devices for processing blood
Methods, devices and device components are presented for blood processing. Particularly, methods, devices and device components are presented for separating blood into blood components and collecting one or more separated blood components, which reduce the incidence of blood vessel infiltration and enhance donor comfort. In one aspect, the invention provides blood processing methods having a return flow rate which decreases systematically during a return time. In another aspect, the invention provides blood processing methods having a removal flow rate, return flow rate or both which are derived from a subject's total blood volume. In another aspect, the present invention provides blood processing methods wherein the fraction by volume of removed blood corresponding to collected components is selected to optimize blood processing efficiency and enhance the purities of collected blood components.
US07704453B2 Method for establishing a sterilizing dose for radiation sensitive products
A method provides for sterilizing with radiation objects which have a low bioburden and which are sensitive to radiation. A dosage of radiation sufficient to ensure sterilization without damaging the object is determined by determining the bioburden upon one or more samples of the objects, determining an estimate of the dose that results in a probability of 0.01 of a surviving microorganism by testing a quantity of samples of the objects at varying dosage levels of radiation, confirming the estimate by testing a quantity of samples of the objects at the dose that was estimated; and calculating a dosage for the sterility assurance level of 10-6 by adding a factor to the dose that was confirmed to result in a probability of 0.01 of a surviving microorganism and wherein the factor is proportional to the dose that yields a probability of 0.01 of a surviving microorganism and inversely proportional to a log of the bioburden.
US07704440B2 Fuel system component and method of manufacture
A fuel tank that is substantially impermeable to fuel vapor has a shell with an interior for holding fuel, an opening for receiving fuel into the interior, and a fill nipple with a barrier layer. The fill nipple has an outer surface and an inner surface defining a passage extending between a pair of generally opposed ends of the fill nipple. One of the ends is attached to the shell such that the passage is aligned with the opening to allow fuel to flow through the passage and into the interior of the fuel tank. The fill nipple has an inner layer of material forming the inner surface, and an outer layer of material forming the outer surface, and has at least one intermediate layer of material forming the barrier layer. The intermediate layer is formed from a material that is different in composition from the inner and outer layers.
US07704432B2 Imprint lithographic method for making a polymeric structure
An imprint lithographic method for making a polymeric structure comprising the steps of: (a) providing a mold having a shape forming a mold pattern; (b) providing a substrate having a higher surface energy relative to said mold; (c) providing a polymer film on said mold, said polymer film having a selected thickness, wherein the selected thickness of the polymer film on the mold pattern is capable of forming at least one frangible region in the polymer film having a thickness that is less than the remainder of the polymer film; (d) pressing the mold and the substrate relatively toward each other to form said frangible region; and (e) releasing at least one of said mold and said substrate from the other, wherein after said releasing, said frangible region remains substantially attached to said mold while the remainder of said polymer film forms the polymeric structure attached to said substrate.
US07704429B2 Method of fabricating a composite material connecting rod
The invention relates to a method of fabricating a composite material connecting rod, the method comprising the step of cutting out a pattern presenting two opposite edges from a composite fiber fabric made up of a plurality of superposed primary plies that are bonded together in such a manner that the primary plies can slide relative to one another, rolling the pattern into a tube in such a manner that the primary plies slide relative to one another to give a chamfer shape to the two edges, and joining together the chamfer-shaped edges so that they overlap.
US07704428B2 Method for manufacturing diaphragm for use in electroacoustic transducer
A method for manufacturing a diaphragm for use in an electroacoustic transducer in a multi-layer structure which includes a first diaphragm layer of synthetic resin molded in a predetermined shape by injection molding and a second diaphragm layer layered in intimate contact on the first diaphragm layer and made of substance different from the first diaphragm layer, includes executing successively a pre-molding step and an injection-molding step, thereby providing the multi-layer structure. The pre-molding step includes attaching a non-molded sheet-like material which is a raw material of the second diaphragm layer to a mating surface of one of the die part of an injection molding die, and closing thereafter the injection molding die to give the sheet-like material a predetermined diaphragm shape. The injection molding step includes injecting synthetic resin material constituting the first diaphragm layer into the injection molding die thus closed thereby to form the first diaphragm layer.
US07704424B2 Method of making models
A method of a seamless model free of bond lines. The method includes the sequential steps of providing a substructure having an exposed outer surface, applying a modelling paste to a structure support in the form of a continuous layer, curing the applied modelling paste, and machining the cured layer of modelling paste to the desired contour. The modelling paste a low density curable composition prepared from thixotropic epoxy or polyurethane containing microballoons.
US07704422B2 Process for producing monolithic porous carbon disks from aromatic organic precursors
Disclosed are processes for producing monolithic and metal doped monolithic porous carbon disks from prepolymer organic precursors in the powder form composed of either or both polyimide and polybenzimidazole. The powders are consolidated (compressed) into disks and then pyrolyzed to form the desired porous carbon disk.
US07704421B2 Method for preparing dental restorations
The present invention relates to a method for preparing dental restorations from ceramic or polymeric material to achieve color and opacity gradients simulating natural dentition, wherein an ingot of ceramic or polymeric material is entirely or partially forced through a system of channels in a press mold into a mold cavity in the press mold, wherein the mold cavity corresponds to a dental restoration.
US07704409B2 Liquid crystal compound having chloronaphthalene moiety, liquid crystal composition, and optical device
A compound represented by formula (1): wherein R1 is hydrogen or alkyl having 1 to 20 carbons, in which in the alkyl, arbitrary —CH2— may be replaced by —O—, —S—, —COO—, —CH═CH— or —C≡C—, and arbitrary hydrogen may be replaced by halogen or alkyl having 1 to 3 carbons; ring A1, ring A2, ring A3, ring A4 and ring A5 are each independently a benzene ring, a piperidine ring, a tetrahydropyrane ring or a dioxane ring, in which in the rings, arbitrary hydrogen may be replaced by halogen, alkyl having 1 to 3 carbons, alkoxy having 1 to 3 carbons or halogenated alkyl having 1 to 3 carbons, and —CH═ may be replaced by —N═; Z1, Z2, Z4, Z5 and Z6 are each independently a single bond, —COO— or —CF2O—; Z3 is a single bond or —CF2O—, and in the case where Z3 is a single bond, ring A3 is a ring represented by formula (RG-5), or L1 and L2 are both fluorine, or at least one of Z1, Z2, Z4, Z5 and Z6 is —CF2O—; L1, L2, L3 and L4 are each independently hydrogen or halogen; X1 is hydrogen, halogen, —C≡N, —N═C═S, —C≡C—C≡N, —SF5 or alkyl having 1 to 10 carbons, in which in the alkyl, arbitrary —CH2— may be replaced by —O—, —S—, —CH═CH— or —C≡C—, and arbitrary hydrogen may be replaced by halogen; and l, m, n, o and p are each independently 0 or 1, provided that l+m+n+o+p≦4:
US07704404B2 Refrigerant compositions and use thereof in low temperature refrigeration systems
A process for obtaining low temperature refrigeration in an existing or new low temperature refrigeration system designed to operate with, or suitable for use with, or capable of being used with HCFC-22 as the refrigerant, the refrigerant composition being a refrigerant composition comprising difluoromethane (HFC-32), pentafluoroethane (HFC-125) and tetrafluoroethane (HFC134a), the three components being present in the composition in amounts such that the operating characteristic of the refrigerant composition in regard to superheat is provided at an acceptable level and the operating characteristics of the refrigerant composition in regard to cooling capacity, mass flow and efficiency (COP) characteristics, when employed as the refrigerant in a low temperature refrigeration system, are each at least 95% of the operating characteristics of chlorodifluoromethane (HCFC-22) if HCFC-22 were to be employed as the refrigerant in such low temperature refrigeration system.
US07704388B2 Reusable liquid chromatographic columns
A reusable liquid chromatographic column consists of three parts, a column body with an integral outlet port molded on one end, a sealing insert with an inlet port, and a perforated cap providing downward force to compress the sealing insert into the column body. A wedge-like seal is employed to seal the connection between the sealing insert and the column body. Two filters on both ends of the column body are used to prevent escape of packing materials from the column chamber under pressure. Hand tightening is adequate to seal the connection by screwing the perforated cap onto the column body. The column is reusable due to its simple disassembling and reassembling processes. It is also disposable due to its inexpensive fabricating materials and manufacturing process.
US07704383B2 Portable fuel desulfurization unit
A mobile fuel filter for removing sulfur-containing compounds from a diesel fuel is provided. The mobile fuel filter comprises: a filter median comprising an absorbent for removing sulfur-containing compounds from the diesel fuel, the filter median being in fluid communication with a storage device, the storage device having a holding capacity greater than 1000 gallons and being configured for storing the diesel fuel, the absorbent being configured to remove sulfur containing compounds from the diesel fuel to produce filtered diesel fuel having less than 15 ppm of sulfur containing compounds, the absorbent comprises an inorganic oxide having a surface acidity characterized by a pKa of at least −3.
US07704378B2 Method for the production of middle distillates by hydroisomerisation et hydrocracking of charges arising from the Fischer-Tropsch method
The invention relates to a process for preparing middle distillates from a paraffinic feedstock produced by Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, using a hydrocracking/hydroisomerization catalyst which comprises at least one hydrodehydrogenating element chosen from the group formed by the noble elements of Group VIII of the periodic table, a silica-alumina-based non-zeolitic support obtained from wherein the non-zeolitic silica-alumina based support was obtained from a process comprising starting from a mixture of a partially soluble alumina compound in an acid medium with a totally soluble silica compound or with a totally soluble combination of alumina and hydrated silica, the resultant moldable mixture is concentrated to form a moldable mixture, the resultant mixture is molded and the resultant molded article is subjected to a hydrothermal or thermal treatment.
US07704377B2 Process and installation for conversion of heavy petroleum fractions in a boiling bed with integrated production of middle distillates with a very low sulfur content
Disclosed are a process and an installation for treatment of a heavy petroleum feedstock, of which at least 80% by weight has a boiling point of greater than 340° C., wherein the process includes (a) hydroconversion in a boiling-bed reactor operating with a rising flow of liquid producing a hydroconversion effluent; (b) separation of hydroconversion effluent into a gas containing hydrogen and H2S, a fraction comprising gas oil, and a naphtha fraction; c) hydrotreatment, by contact with at least one catalyst, of at least said fraction comprising gas oil, producing a hydrotreatment effluent; and d) separation of hydrotreatment effluent into a gas containing hydrogen and at least one gas oil fraction having a sulfur content of less than 50 ppm, wherein the hydrogen supply for the hydroconversion and hydrotreatment is delivered by a single compression system.
US07704375B2 Process for reducing corrosion in a condensing boiler burning liquid fuel
The invention relates to a process for operating a condensing boiler in which the fuel is a Fischer-Tropsch product which boils for more than 90 wt % between 160 and 400° C. and contains more than 80 wt % of iso and normal paraffins, less than 1 wt % aromatics, less than 5 ppm sulfur and less than 1 ppm nitrogen and wherein the density of the Fischer-Tropsch product is between 0.65 g/cm3 and 0.8 g/cm3 at 15° C.
US07704368B2 Method and apparatus for electrochemical plating semiconductor wafers
A method of electroplating conductive material on semiconductor wafers controls undesirable surface defects by reducing the electroplating current as the wafer is being initially immersed in a plating bath. Further defect reduction and improved bottom up plating of vias is achieved by applying a static charge on the wafer before it is immersed in the bath, in order to enhance bath accelerators used to control the plating rate. The static charge is applied to the wafer using a supplemental electrode disposed outside the plating bath.
US07704363B2 Methods and apparatus for the location and concentration of polar analytes using an alternating electric field
A method is disclosed for effecting the concentration of a polar analyte in an alternating electric field. In the method, a relative translation of the polar analyte and an alternating electric field along a translation path is effected. A portion of the polar analyte is then trapped and concentrated in a concentration zone formed by the intersection of the translation path and the alternating electric field. Also disclosed are various devices for carrying out the forgoing method.
US07704361B2 Method and apparatus for isolation of ionic species from a liquid
The present invention relates to a method for isolation of ionic species from a liquid and an apparatus for isolation of ionic species from a liquid. Moreover the invention relates to an electro enhanced dialysis cell and the use of the cell in the method and the apparatus.
US07704356B2 Gas sensor array with electrochemical gas generator
A compact gas sensor array, to which a test gas can be admitted without the use of mechanical components and whose readiness for measurement is interrupted during the calibration only briefly. The array includes a combination of an electrochemical gas sensor (3) and an electrochemical gas generator (2). A gas channel (1) is provided from the gas generator (2) to the measuring electrode (9) of the gas sensor (3). The measuring gas from the environment of the gas sensor (3) has free access to the measuring electrode (9).
US07704354B2 Method and apparatus for electrowinning copper using the ferrous/ferric anode reaction
The present invention relates, generally, to a method and apparatus for electrowinning metals, and more particularly to a method and apparatus for copper electrowinning using the ferrous/ferric anode reaction. In general, the use of a flow-through anode—coupled with an effective electrolyte circulation system—enables the efficient and cost-effective operation of a copper electrowinning system employing the ferrous/ferric anode reaction at a total cell voltage of less than about 1.5 V and at current densities of greater than about 26 Amps per square foot (about 280 A/m2), and reduces acid mist generation. Furthermore, the use of such a system permits the use of low ferrous iron concentrations and optimized electrolyte flow rates as compared to prior art systems while producing high quality, commercially saleable product (i.e., LME Grade A copper cathode or equivalent), which is advantageous.
US07704353B2 Electrode assembly for the electrochemical treatment of liquids with a low conductivity
The invention relates to an electrode assembly for the electrochemical treatment of liquids with a low conductivity. Said assembly comprises electrodes (1, 2), between which a polymer solid electrolyte (3) is situated. The electrodes are pressed against one another by means of a compression device (9, 10; 91) and are configured in such a way that the assembly can be traversed by the liquid. To produce said assembly simply and to ensure that it is flexible and easy to use, the compression device (9, 10; 91) is supported on the electrodes (1, 2).
US07704351B2 Processing device and method of operating the device for processing a coated or uncoated fibrous web
A processing device and method applying the same for processing a coated or uncoated fibrous web is provided. The device comprises a belt configured to extend around a guiding element, at least one counter-element being disposed outside said belt to provide a contact area with the belt, such that the belt and the counter-element establish therebetween a web processing zone for passing a web to be processed therethrough. The processing zone length is defined by the disposition of the belt's guiding element and/or by the configuration of the counter-elements. The contact pressure applied to a web in the processing zone is within the range of between about 0.01 MPa and about 200 MPa.
US07704349B2 Fabric crepe process for making absorbent sheet
A process for making absorbent cellulosic paper products such as sheet for towel, tissue and the like, includes compactively dewatering a nascent web followed by wet belt creping the web at an intermediate consistency of anywhere from about 30 to about 60 percent under conditions operative to redistribute the fiber on the belt, which is preferably a fabric. In preferred embodiments, the web is thereafter adhesively applied to a Yankee dryer using a creping adhesive operative to enable high speed transfer of the web of intermediate consistency such as a poly(vinyl alcohol)/polyamide adhesive. An absorbent sheet so prepared from a papermaking furnish exhibits an absorbency of at least about 5 g/g, a CD stretch of at least about 4 percent, and an MD/CD tensile ratio of less than about 1.1, and also exhibits a maximum CD modulus at a CD strain of less than 1 percent and sustains a CD modulus of at least 50 percent of its maximum CD modulus to a CD strain of at least about 4 percent. Products of the invention may also exhibit an MD modulus at break 1.5 to 2 times their initial MD modulus.
US07704344B2 Tire building drum and tire building method
Tire building drum and tire building method, capable of assembling tire component members with high accuracy. A tire building drum is used, which includes at least one core body, which is disposed at an axial inside of a pair of bead lock means, and which comprises a plurality of sheets of rigid support members disposed in a toroidal shape and adapted to be displaced and thereby expanded or contracted. Bead cores are locked by the bead lock means, respectively, and a center portion of a carcass band is bulged while displacing the bead lock means close to each other. Back side portions of the carcass band are folded to radial outsides around the bead cores, respectively. The core body is then radially expanded to the maximum diameter while locking the bead cores, and tire component members are assembled onto the radially expanded core body.