Document Document Title
US07912102B2 Intracavity wavelength conversion solid-state laser generator
Fundamental laser light having a wavelength of 1,064 nm, for example, is generated by a solid-state laser medium. The fundamental laser light is reflected by a flat mirror and amplified again passing through a Q-switch, a solid-state laser medium, a Q-switch, a Q-switch, a solid-state laser medium, and a Q-switch. The fundamental laser light furthermore reflects from a flat mirror, passes through a flat mirror for second-harmonic resonance, passes through a lens, then reflects from a flat mirror for laser light separation, and enters a nonlinear optical crystal for the third harmonic and a nonlinear optical crystal for the second harmonic. A solid-state laser generator can thereby be obtained in which second-harmonic laser light obtained in an intermediate stage can be used with good efficiency and be converted, for example, to third-harmonic laser light and higher-harmonic laser light with higher efficiency and higher output.
US07912099B2 Method and apparatus for preventing distortion of powerful fiber-laser systems by backreflected signals
A powerful fiber laser system is configured with at least one filtering element capable of preventing a backreflected Raman component of the main signal from propagating along the upstream stretch of the system. The filtering element includes a slanted fiber grating, one or more cladding formations disposed in a cladding of fiber and having a refractive index greater than that one of the cladding, but lower than a refractive index of the core, and/or a combination of two spaced apart single mode fibers and a low mode fiber spliced to the opposing ends of the respective SM fibers.
US07912087B2 Capacity variable link apparatus and capacity variable link setting method
A capacity variable link apparatus including a main signal system and a control signal system is provided. The main signal system includes: an upper layer signal accommodation part; a lower layer path termination part; and a signal switching part for dividing the upper layer signal to lower layer signals in a lower layer path group having a capacity that is determined according to an amount of traffic of the upper layer signal. The control system includes: a traffic amount measuring part for measuring the amount of traffic of the upper layer and for determining whether the capacity of the lower layer path group is to be increased or decreased according to the amount; and a signal switching management part for controlling the signal switching part according to the result of the determination.
US07912080B2 Cyclical time-based communication system, user in such a system and transmission method
The invention relates to a cyclical time-based communication system, for the transmission of useful data (DATA) between users of the system, which comprises a databus and users connected thereto. The data transmission occurs within cyclical repeating timeframes, each with at least two timeslots. Each timeslot is provided for the transmission of a message (Ni). A message (Ni) comprises at least part of the useful data (DATA) and each message (Ni) is provided with a code (ID). The bandwidth available for data transmission may be better utilized, if the code (ID) is placed within the message (Ni) as a part thereof, each message (Ni) is additionally provided with time information concerning the timeslot which may be extracted from the code and at least one of the timeslots within the timeframes may be used for transmission of various messages in various cycles. In a preferred embodiment the information relating to the current cycle comprises an ordinal number for the cycle. In the simplest case the number has two values 0 and 1. Even and odd cycles can thus be differentiated. The ordinal number may be increased to differentiate more cycles from each other. The transmission method is preferably based on the FlexRay protocol.
US07912079B2 System and method of communicating a priority indication in a call control/bearer control telecommunication system
The present invention relates generally to telecommunication services, and in particular, to communicating priority indications between telecommunication nodes in a telecommunication system having a separated call control and bearer control architecture. The present invention provides a number of solutions which map or assign the call level priority to the bearer level.
US07912070B1 System and method for seamlessly switching a half-duplex session to a full-duplex session
A communication system that is particularly suited to switch a half duplex session to a full duplex session. The system includes a dispatch call controller that sets up a half duplex session; and a VoIP server that receives a request to switch the half duplex session to a full duplex session; forwards the request to the target subscriber unit; receives an acceptance of the request; and sets up the full duplex session between the subscriber units. In another embodiment, the dispatch call controller receives the request to switch to the full duplex session; forwards the request to the target subscriber unit; receives an acceptance of the request; and instructs the VoIP server to set up the full duplex session. In yet another embodiment, a service broker receives the request, instructs the VoIP server to set up the full duplex session, and instructs the dispatch call controller to terminate the half duplex session.
US07912068B2 Low-latency scheduling in large switches
Embodiments of a scheduler for a switch, where the switch is configured to couple input ports to output ports are described. During operation, the scheduler may determine a schedule based on a group of requests, associated with multiple data streams, that are received for the output ports of the switch, where the schedule matches input ports to output ports of the switch for a given data cell time. Note that the schedule may be determined using an arbitration technique during a time interval. Moreover, the scheduler may assign an additional request, which was received at a time that precedes a current time by less than the time interval, to a portion of the switch which is available in the schedule, thereby reducing a latency of the scheduler.
US07912067B2 Clearinghouse server for internet telephony and multimedia communications
A clearinghouse server for routing multi-media communications, including telephony calls, between a source device and a destination device via a distributed computer network, such as the global Internet. The clearinghouse server can authorize the completion of a communication from a source device to a destination device and collect usage-related information for the completed communication. In response to an authorization request issued by an enrolled source device, the clearinghouse server can identify one or more available destination devices available to accept a communication from an authorized source device. The clearinghouse server can provide a list of the identified destination devices, typically organized in a rank order, by sending an authorization response to the source device. In turn, the source device can use this list to select a destination device and contact that selected device via the computer network to complete the communication.
US07912050B2 Method for classifying downstream packet in cable modem termination system at head-end supporting channel bonding mode, and cable modem termination system
Provided is a method for classifying packets in a cable modem termination system (CMTS) supporting a channel bonding mode. The method includes the steps of: extracting a destination Media Access Control (MAC) address of a received data packet; acquiring a MAC address of a cable modem receiving the data packet, and memory address information of a cable modem Classifier Identifier (CLID) corresponding to the MAC address of the cable modem, from a first classification table corresponding to the destination address; extracting the CLID information present in the memory address; extracting a classifier pattern corresponding to the extracted cable modem CLID information; bonding the MAC address of the cable modem and the classifier pattern to generate a result pattern; extracting a memory address including downstream service flow information from a second classification table corresponding to the result pattern; extracting the downstream service flow information corresponding to the memory address; and generating an output packet corresponding to the downstream service flow information and the data packet.
US07912039B1 Method and apparatus for blocking a pay-per use feature in a communications network
A method and apparatus for blocking at least one pay-per-use feature in a communications network is described. In one embodiment, a request to initiate at least one pay-per-use feature from at least one endpoint device associated with a subscriber is received. A determination of whether a blocking function has been activated for the at least one pay-per-use feature is then made. Afterwards, the request to initiate the at least one pay-per-use feature is blocked if the blocking function is activated.
US07912027B2 Controlling visibility of a wireless device in discoverable mode
A wireless device in a discoverable mode controls its visibility by determining whether to ignore or respond to an inquiry, received from an inquiring device, based at least in part on one or more properties of the inquiring device.
US07912021B2 Method and system for simulating a communication network, related network and computer program product therefor
A simulator system for simulating a wireless local area network in a combination of a wireless local area network and one or more 2G or 3G mobile communication networks includes a first set and a second set of access protocol simulation devices representative of wireless local area network apparatus implementing access protocols. The first set of access protocol simulation devices is representative of radio technology independent apparatus providing integration of the wireless local area network with the mobile communication network(s). The second set of access protocol simulation devices is representative of radio technology dependent apparatus present in the wireless local area network. The simulator is thus configured for simulating different types of wireless local area network technology in the wireless local area network by varying the access protocol simulation devices in the second set while maintaining the access protocol simulating devices in the first set.
US07912017B2 Wireless connection system and wireless connection method
A wireless connection system having at least one host apparatus and at least one client apparatus, wherein: proximity wireless communication is executed when a host apparatus and a client apparatus execute wireless communication with each other on the basis of a predetermined wireless communication standard in which the client apparatus is brought close to the host apparatus; authentication processing is executed for authenticating connection setting information by use of the proximity wireless communication; and if authentication is successful in the authentication processing, execution of the wireless communication is enabled and, if authentication is unsuccessful, execution of the wireless communication is disabled.
US07912016B2 Hierarchical data collection network supporting packetized voice communications among wireless terminals and telephones
A packet-based, hierarchical communication system, arranged in a spanning tree configuration, is described in which wired and wireless communication networks exhibiting substantially different characteristics are employed in an overall scheme to link portable or mobile computing devices. The network accommodates real time voice transmission both through dedicated, scheduled bandwidth and through a packet-based routing within the confines and constraints of a data network. Conversion and call processing circuitry is also disclosed which enables access devices and personal computers to adapt voice information between analog voice stream and digital voice packet formats as proves necessary. Routing pathways include wireless spanning tree networks, wide area networks, telephone switching networks, internet, etc., in a manner virtually transparent to the user. A voice session and associate call setup simulates that of conventional telephone switching network, providing well-understood functionality common to any mobile, remote or stationary terminal, phone, computer, etc.
US07912014B2 Method and apparatus for reducing interference in multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) systems
Interference is reduced with a multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) system having a set of basestations including a first basestation and a second basestation is reduced. Signals associated with the first basestation having its own antenna elements are received. The first basestation is associated with its own mobile stations each having their own antenna elements. Each signal associated with the first basestation is uniquely associated with a mobile station associated with the first basestation. Signals associated with the second basestation having its own antenna elements are received. The second basestation is associated with its own mobile stations each having their own antenna elements. Each signal associated with the second basestation is uniquely associated with a mobile station associated with the second basestation. Signals associated with the first basestation are jointly detected in conjunction with the signals associated with the second basestation to produce a set of detected signals.
US07912002B2 System and method of QOS-based channel selection for WLAN access points or stations
A system comprises a candidate channel assessment module for obtaining at least one AC-specific channel suitability metric for each of two different channels, and for using the AC-specific channel suitability metrics to determine a channel suitability index of each of the two different channels; a channel selection module for using the channel suitability index to select one of the two different channels as a new channel; and a channel setting module for configuring a wireless transceiver to use the new channel.
US07911998B2 Communication method for transmitting multiple packet signals, and radio apparatus and communication system using the same
A radio apparatus communicates with a plurality of terminal apparatuses by using a packet signal composed of at least one stream. A control unit divides a certain period into a plurality of partial periods and assigns respectively the plurality of partial periods to the plurality of terminal apparatuses by associating the periods with the terminal apparatuses. The control unit also generates a packet signal for use in control and packet signals for use in inquiry. In so doing, the control unit generates the inquiry packet signals for the plurality of respective terminal apparatuses, as a single packet signal. A baseband processing unit and other units transmit the control packet signal and then transmit the inquiry packet signals, and receive packet signals, containing inquiry results, from the plurality of respective terminal apparatuses.
US07911997B2 Quality of service resource negotiation
Embodiments of apparatuses, articles, methods, and systems for negotiating quality of service resources in wireless networks are generally described herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.
US07911992B2 Addressable outlet, and a network using the same
An addressable outlet for use as part of local area network based on wiring installed in a building, such as telephone, electrical, cable television, dedicated wiring, and the like. The use of such wiring for data communications networks in addition to the wiring's primary usage creates a need for ways of determining the condition of the network and monitoring this information remotely. Network condition includes such factors as continuity of wiring, connector status, connected devices, topology, signal delays, latencies, and routing patterns. Providing basic processing and addressing capabilities within the outlet permits messaging to and from specific individual outlets, thereby allowing inquiries and reports of the condition of the immediate environment of each outlet. In addition, outlets can be configured with sensors to report on voltage, temperature, and other measurable quantities.
US07911987B2 Method for creating a peer-to-peer immediate messaging solution without using an instant messaging server
A messaging method in a system including a wireless network, a routing server, and a plurality of mobile stations. A first mobile station has first communications applications and a first PIN and a second mobile station has second communications applications and a second PIN. The method includes sending an invitation including the first PIN from the first mobile station to the second mobile station using one of the first communications applications, and sending an acceptance including the second PIN from the second mobile station to the first mobile station using one of the second communications applications. The method further includes creating first messages including the second PIN and sending them to the second mobile station through the wireless network, and creating second messages including the first PIN and sending them to the first mobile station through the wireless network. The routing server routes the messages based on the PINs.
US07911986B2 Apparatus and method for measuring bi-directional radio channel having multiple antenna
An apparatus and method for measuring bi-directional radio channel with multiple antenna are provided. The apparatus includes a transmitter for amplifying a signal that is frequency-up converted to radio frequency and removing a signal of other frequency band, a high power multiplexing switch for sequentially transferring transmitting signals from the transmitter to a corresponding circulator, a plurality of circulators for transferring the transmitting signals from the high power multiplexing switch to a corresponding antenna among multiple antennas, and transferring a receiving signal from a corresponding antenna, a low loss multiplexing switch for receiving the receiving signal from the corresponding circulator, and sequentially transferring the receiving signal; and a receiver for receiving the receiving signal from the low loss multiplexing switch, removing undesired frequency components from the receiving signal except a desired frequency band and low-noise amplifying the desired frequency band of the receiving signal.
US07911977B2 Designated router assignment per multicast group address/range
Each of several routers connected to a LAN elects the same router as the designated router for a multicast group identified by a multicast address. Each of the several routers implements a method for electing the designated router. The method includes in one embodiment, generating several values corresponding to the several routers, respectively. The several values are generated as a function of the several routers' IP addresses, respectively, and an IP address of a first multicast group. The values, in one embodiment, are then compared to determine which is the largest. Thereafter each router elects as the designated router for the multicast group, the router corresponding to the largest value.
US07911974B1 Service layer availability
A method of operating a service availability system to monitor the availability of a communication service having a plurality of service layers provided by a plurality of service elements comprises receiving performance data from each of the service elements indicating the performance of each of the service elements, processing the performance data to determine availability levels of each of the service layers, and displaying on a graphical user interface the availability levels of each of the service layers.
US07911972B2 Access multiplexer system for performing a stateless auto-configuration process
An access multiplexer system for performing stateless auto-configuration processes for use in networks comprising access multiplexers for receiving discovery messages from sources, which discovery messages comprise multicast destination addresses defining numbers of destinations. In order to increase the security of the networks, the system is provided with agents for replacing the original number of multicast destination addresses in the discovery messages with a further number destination addresses defining further destinations, wherein the further number of destinations is smaller than the original number of destinations. Discovery messages are defined in RFC 2461 and 2462 and comprise solicitation messages, with the sources comprising hosts and with the destinations comprising network-units, or comprise advertisement messages, with the sources comprising network-units and with the destinations comprising hosts.
US07911965B2 Method and arrangement for a synchronized HSDPA reconfiguration
The HSDPA (High Speed Downlink Packet Access)-related reconfigurations are synchronized between a UTRAN (UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network) and a mobile terminal (UE), by the Node B and the RNCs (Radio Network Controllers) providing the mobile terminal with a specific reconfiguration switching time. The reconfiguration switching time is either associated with the SFN (System Frame Number) or with the CFN (Connection Frame Number).
US07911959B2 System and method for providing integrated services across cryptographic boundaries in a network
A method for providing network integrated services based ReSerVation Protocol across a cryptographic network boundary includes assigning one or more DiffServ forwarding classifications to correspond to IntServ requests for QoS provisioning. A daemon in the QoS Service Provider module signals the QoS upon detecting data packets indicating a DiffServ forwarding class assigned to IntServ QoS requests. In response to the notification, the QoS Services Provider module initiates an RSVP-based request for network resources, and establishes a network path in response to acceptance of the RSVP path request. The data flow comprised of encrypted data is then transmitted over the reserved path. Multiple simultaneous aggregated flows may be provisioned. Paths may be reconfigured and resized by the QoS services provider module in response to an overlimit data flow, subject to network resource availability. An ECN bit is returnable from the destination application to signal a problem with the data transmission.
US07911955B2 Coordinated media control system
A coordinated media control system includes a node manager, a device control system, and a device. The node manager is operatively connected to a first node. The device control system is operatively connected to the node manager. The device is operatively connected to the device control system. The node manager is configured to establish and coordinate media streams for transmitting media from the device to a second node or for receiving media to the device from the second node.
US07911950B2 Adapter and method to support long distances on existing fiber
Devices and methods are provided for enabling high-speed data communication at relatively low cost. Some methods allow devices to communicate by selecting a data transfer rate from among multiple data transfer rates. Some such methods allow devices to communicate according to the highest data transfer rate among multiple data transfer rates at which communications can be made without exceeding a predetermined error rate. Communications may be enabled between a first device operating at a relatively higher data transfer rate and a second device operating at a relatively lower data transfer rate. Pause frames or the like may be used to rate limit data received from the first device and maintain an average data transfer rate for communications with the second device at the lower data transfer rate.
US07911948B2 Methods and systems for performing TCP throttle
The present invention relates to systems and methods of accelerating network traffic. The method includes receiving a plurality of network packets and setting a threshold for a buffer. The threshold indicates a low water mark for the buffer. The method further includes storing the plurality of network packets in the buffer at least until the buffer's capacity is full, removing packets from the buffer, and transmitting the removed packets via a downstream link to an associated destination. Furthermore, the method includes that in response to removing packets from the buffer such that the buffer's capacity falls below the threshold, receiving additional packets and storing the additional packets at least until the buffer's capacity is full.
US07911945B2 Apparatus and method for efficiently supporting VoIP in a wireless communication system
The present invention concerns methods for efficiently supporting Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) on the Forward Packet Data Channel (F-PDCH) in CDMA 2000 1xEV-DV systems. Active speech in VoIP is encoded using, for example enhanced variable rate codec (EVRC), which produces 171, 80 and 16 bits per 20 ms of speech for Rate 1, Rate ½ and Rate ⅛, respectively. However, about 60% of the time a user is inactive during a speech session, so an inordinate amount of system bandwidth is comprised of rate ⅛ VoIP packets. In one embodiment of the present invention the apparatus of the present invention identifies the Rate ⅛ voice frame packets and discards them. In another embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus of the present invention identifies the Rate ⅛ voice frame packets and selects some of them for further transmission. In both embodiments the efficiency of channel utilization is increased since the amount of channel band width used to communicate relatively little information, e.g., gaps of silence, is decreased.
US07911941B2 Scheduling method for executing job, scheduling apparatus for executing job, and commutative recording medium having recorded thereon scheduling program for causing execution of job
A router interposed between a subnet and a backbone network, where the subnet includes a plurality of layer 2 switches and a plurality of terminals. The terminals communicate with each other via the layer 2 switches and a master router, wherein the router connects to the master router, the subnet and the backbone network, and originally operates as a backup router, but can be transitioned to operate as a redundant master router. The router includes a severance detection unit for detecting severance between the layer 2 switches and a redundant function control unit which, when severance has been detected: (i) resumes interrupted communication between the backbone network and the subnet via the router, (ii) receives, from the master router, a copy of an address resolution protocol (ARP) table, and stores the copy of the ARP table in the router, and (iii) transitions the router into a redundant master router.
US07911935B2 Method and apparatus for interleaving sequence elements of an OFDMA synchronization channel
A method and apparatus is provided for transmitting an orthogonal frequency domain multiple access (OFDMA) signal including a synchronization channel signal transmitted including a plurality of sequence elements interleaved in time and frequency (610, 640). The synchronization channel signal sequence elements enable an initial acquisition and cell search method with low computational load by providing predetermined time domain symmetry (702, 704) for common sequence elements in OFDMA symbol periods (620, 660) for OFDMA symbol timing detection and frequency error detection in an OFDMA system supporting multiple system bandwidths, both synchronized and un-synchronized systems, a large cell index and an OFDMA symbol structure with both short and long cyclic prefix length.
US07911934B2 Resource allocation in multi data stream communication link
Methods and corresponding systems for allocating resources in a communications system includes determining feasible sets of subchannels for allocation to a user subject to an allocation constraint. In one approach, a constraint matrix representing constraints for allocating subchannels to users in allocations of selected subchannels is computed, subject to the allocation constraint. Then a vector containing metrics corresponding to allocations of selected subchannels to the communication links is estimated. A binary decision vector representing an allocation of the subchannels to the users is computed using binary integer processing. In another approach a greedy heuristic allocation is used. The allocation constraint can be a restriction limiting multiple subchannels allocated to a user to be adjacent to one another. The metrics can be weighted capacities of allocations of selected subchannels to the users.
US07911925B2 Optical pickup
An adhesive positions a beam shaping element in such a manner as to satisfy the following relational expressions (1) and (2): 0
US07911924B2 Information recording carrier and information reproducing apparatus for the same
Plural grooves or lands formed in an information recording carrier include at least a wobbling region and data is recorded wobblingly in this wobbling region by phase shift modulation while recorded digitally with a single or multiple waves as a channel bit.
US07911923B2 Complex objective lens, optical head, optical information apparatus, computer, optical disk player, car navigation system, optical disk recorder, and optical disk server
A complex objective lens composed of a hologram and an objective lens, capable of realizing stable and high-precision compatible reproducing/recording of a BD with a base thickness of about 0.1 mm for a blue light beam (wavelength λ1) and a DVD with a base thickness of about 0.6 mm for a red light beam (wavelength λ2). In an inner circumferential portion of the hologram, a grating is formed, which has a cross-sectional shape including as one period a step of heights in the order of 0 time, twice, once, and three times a unit level difference that gives a difference in optical path of about one wavelength with respect to a blue light beam, from an outer peripheral side to an optical axis side. The hologram transmits a blue light beam as 0th-order diffracted light without diffracting it, and disperses a red light beam passing through an inner circumferential portion as +1st-order diffracted light and allows it to be condensed by an objective lens. Because of this, the focal length of the red light beam becomes longer than that of the blue light beam, whereby a working distance is enlarged.
US07911918B2 Optical recording method, optical recording apparatus, optical recording medium, and optical recording and reproducing method by use of holography
The present invention aims to provide an optical recording method etc. that provides higher efficiency of recording and reproducing and is uninfluenced by the mismatch of optical axes of plural laser lights induced from accident errors of optical recording and optical reproducing apparatuses when carrying out recording or reproducing, or focus control etc. by use of a laser light, high multiple-recording can be carried out, and layer construction of the recording medium itself is simple.For the purpose, an optical recording method etc. is provided that comprises a first step of recording an interference image, in which a recording light is irradiated at an optional focusing length X1 in thickness direction of the recording layer, an interference image is formed, and the interference image is formed on the recording layer, then multiple bits are recorded per one recording, and a second step of recording an interference image, in which the recording light is irradiated at a focusing length X2 that is different from the focusing length X1 to form a second interference image, and the second interference image is formed and recorded on the recording layer, and then multiple bits are recorded per one recording.
US07911912B2 Optical disc recording apparatus and methods using pseudo-random number sequence for recording auxiliary information
An optical disc recording apparatus that uses a pseudo-random number sequence for recording auxiliary information, wherein a sequence of data based on auxiliary information is modulated by a signal represented by a combination of a sequence of pseudo-random numbers and a predetermined periodic signal, and recorded traces of the pits or the marks are changed depending on the modulated sequence of data, thereby recording the auxiliary information on the optical disc. By making it difficult to estimate the structure of the sequence of pseudo-random numbers, duplication of an optical disc is hindered.
US07911910B2 Information recording method and apparatus with suppressed mark edge jitters
Recording information is disclosed in which an information recording medium is irradiated with a recording energy beam that is power-modulated into at least a record power level and a record-ready power level lower than the record power level. The information is recorded on the recording medium in the form of length and interval of a mark portion. When forming a mark portion of a predetermined length, the radiation energy of the energy beam is increased as compared with when forming a mark portion of a different length before or after the first pulse of an energy beam pulse train including at least a pulse for forming the mark portion.
US07911906B2 Data structure for control information on rewriteable data storage medium
A data storage medium includes a data structure, called a disk control block, used for administration and control information for the data storage medium. One medium may contain multiple different disk control blocks, each addressing a different function. Each disk control block includes a control block identifier that specifies the function of the disk control block. Each control block also includes a set of standard access control parameters. If a drive encounters an unrecognized disk control block, the drive can still decode the standard control parameters, so that the drive behavior is not inconsistent with the requirements of the unrecognized disk control block.
US07911873B1 Digital delay locked loop implementation for precise control of timing signals
An efficient implementation of a digital delay locked loop (DLL) circuit is disclosed. The delay locked loop (DLL) circuit includes a phase detector circuit, a clock divider circuit, a delay, a delay control finite state machine (FSM) and an output low pass filter. The delay includes a coarse delay line and a fine delay line. The coarse delay line delays a signal by a fixed large amount and the fine delay line introduces a smaller precise delay. The delay control FSM adjusts the delay to keep the output signal of the DLL synchronized with the input. The adjustment is averaged over a range of cycle periods in order to avoid adjusting the edges of signal waveform constantly. The low pass filter at the output minimizes the jitter in the output signal.
US07911866B2 Semiconductor memory for automatic executing refresh operations
A semiconductor memory executes an access operation on one of a plurality of memory blocks in response to an externally supplied access request. At this time, in response to the access request, a memory control unit executes the access operation on one of the memory blocks and a refresh operation on at least one of the memory blocks on which the access operation is not executed. Consequently, it is possible to execute the refresh operation during the execution of the access operation without any conflict between the access operation and the refresh operation. As a result, the access cycle time can be shortened, which can improve the data transfer rate.
US07911854B2 Semiconductor memory device
A semiconductor memory device comprises a plurality of memory layers arranged in multilayer, each memory layer including a cell array, the cell array containing a plurality of first parallel lines, a plurality of second parallel lines arranged crossing the first lines, and a plurality of memory cells connected at intersections of the first lines and the second lines; a pulse generator operative to generate pulses required for data access to the memory cell; and a control means operative to control the pulse generator such that the pulse output from the pulse generator has energy in accordance with the memory layer to which the access target memory cell belongs.
US07911844B2 Non-volatile semiconductor storage device
A non-volatile semiconductor storage device includes: a memory cell array having memory cells arranged therein, the memory cells storing data in a non-volatile manner; and a plurality of transfer transistors transferring a voltage to the memory cells, the voltage to be supplied for data read, write and erase operations with respect to the memory cells. Each of the transfer transistors includes: a gate electrode formed on a semiconductor substrate via a gate insulation film; and diffusion layers formed to sandwich the gate electrode therebetween and functioning as drain/source layers. Upper layer wirings are provided above the diffusion layers and provided with a predetermined voltage to prevent depletion of the diffusion layers at least when the transfer transistors become conductive.
US07911838B2 Read operation for non-volatile storage with compensation for coupling
Shifts in the apparent charge stored on a floating gate (or other charge storing element) of a non-volatile memory cell can occur because of the coupling of an electric field based on the charge stored in adjacent floating gates (or other adjacent charge storing elements). The problem occurs most pronouncedly between sets of adjacent memory cells that have been programmed at different times. To account for this coupling, the read process for a particular memory cell will provide compensation to an adjacent memory cell in order to reduce the coupling effect that the adjacent memory cell has on the particular memory cell.
US07911837B2 Multi-state memory cell with asymmetric charge trapping
A multi-state NAND memory cell is comprised of two drain/source areas in a substrate. An oxide-nitride-oxide structure is formed above the substrate between the drain/source areas. The nitride layer acting as an asymmetric charge trapping layer. A control gate is located above the oxide-nitride-oxide structure. An asymmetrical bias on the drain/source areas causes the drain/source area with the higher voltage to inject an asymmetric distribution hole by gate induced drain leakage injection into the trapping layer substantially adjacent that drain/source area.
US07911836B2 Data restoration in case of page-programming failure
The present invention discloses systems and methods for restoring data in flash memory after an operational failure. The method includes: setting bits of a data buffer in accordance with the data; programming a plurality of memory cells in accordance with the data buffer; and upon failure of the programming step, restoring the data buffer to be set in accordance with the data, wherein the restoring is based only on a present state of the data buffer and on a present state of the plurality of memory cells. A memory device includes: at least one cell; and a controller operative to store data in at least one cell by steps including those described in the method above. The system includes: a memory device that includes at least one cell; and a processor operative to store data in at least one cell by steps including those described in the method above.
US07911834B2 Analog interface for a flash memory die
A flash disk controller includes an input operable to receive analog signals from a flash memory die. The flash memory die includes multiple flash memory cells. The analog signals represent data values stored in the flash memory cells. An analog-to-digital conversion module is coupled to the input to convert received analog signals into digital data. A control module selects memory cells from which the input receives analog signals.
US07911833B2 Anti-parallel diode structure and method of fabrication
An anti-parallel diode structure and method of fabrication is presently disclosed. In some embodiments, an anti-parallel diode structure has a semiconductor region comprising a first insulator layer disposed between a first semiconductor layer and a second semiconductor layer. The semiconductor region can be bound on a first side by a first metal material and bound on a second side by a second metal material so that current below a predetermined value is prevented from passing through the semiconductor region and current above the predetermined value passes through the semiconductor region.
US07911827B2 Implementing enhanced SRAM stability and enhanced chip yield with configurable wordline voltage levels
An array built in self test (ABIST) method and circuit for implementing enhanced static random access memory (SRAM) stability and enhanced chip yield using configurable wordline voltage levels, and a design structure on which the subject circuit resides are provided. A wordline is connected to a SRAM memory cell. A plurality of wordline voltage pulldown devices is connected to the wordline. A respective wordline voltage control input signal is applied to each of the plurality of wordline voltage pulldown devices to selectively adjust the voltage level of the wordline.
US07911824B2 Nonvolatile memory apparatus
Provided are a plurality of memory cell arrays 136 and 146 each having a plurality of nonvolatile memory elements having a characteristic whose resistance value changes according to electric pulses applied, and control units (102, 104, 108, 110, 114, 128, 130, 152) configured to write data to a memory cell array and to read data from another memory cell array such that writing of the data and reading of the data occur concurrently in writing of the data to the plurality of memory cell arrays.
US07911818B2 Content addressable memory having bidirectional lines that support passing read/write data and search data
A CAM column structure includes an interface that drives search data to a plurality of CAM cells via a search line pair. The CAM cells are divided into sections, each section including: a set of CAM cells, a bit line pair coupled to the set of CAM cells, a sense amplifier coupled to the bit line pair, a tri-state read buffer configured to drive read data from the sense amplifier to the search line pair, and a pair of tri-state write buffers configured to drive write data from the search line pair to the bit line pair. In one embodiment, the pair of tri-state write buffers is replaced by a pair of switches that couple the search line pair to the sense amplifier. The search line pair may be segmented by tri-state buffers, which are controlled to drive the search, read and write data along the search line pair.
US07911813B2 Offline synchronous rectifying circuit with sense transistor for resonant switching power converter
A synchronous rectifying circuit of a resonant switching power converter is provided to improve the efficiency. The synchronous rectifying circuit includes a power transistor and a diode connected to a transformer and an output ground of the power converter for rectifying. A sense transistor is coupled to the power transistor for generating a mirror current correlated to a current of the power transistor. A controller generates a driving signal to control the power transistor in response to a switching-current signal. A current-sense device is coupled to the sense transistor for generating the switching-current signal in response to the mirror current. The controller enables the driving signal to turn on the power transistor once the diode is forwardly biased. The controller generates a reset signal to disable the driving signal and turn off the power transistor once the switching-current signal is lower than a threshold.
US07911812B2 Control arrangement for a PFC power converter
In a PFC (Power Factor Correction) converter control unit, a PWM (pulse width modulated) signal is produced by comparing a PFC converter output voltage error signal, produced by a transconductance amplifier, with a ramp signal, which may be from a control unit of a resonant mode converter in cascade with the PFC converter. Level shifting is used to match the amplitude ranges of the compared signals. A current, representing an input current of the PFC converter and produced by a current mirror, is switched by the PWM signal to a parallel resistance and capacitance to produce a smoothed voltage constituting a control signal for the PFC converter.
US07911808B2 Primary side constant output current controller with highly improved accuracy
A comparing circuit and a control loop are used to maintain the peak level of current flowing through an inductor of a flyback converter. An inductor switch control signal controls an inductor switch through which the inductor current flows. The inductor current increases at a ramp-up rate during a ramp time and stops increasing at the end of the ramp time. The comparing circuit generates a timing signal that indicates a target time at which the inductor current would reach a predetermined current limit if the inductor current continued to increase at the ramp-up rate. The control loop then receives the timing signal and compares the target time to the end of the ramp time. The pulse width of the inductor switch control signal is increased when the target time occurs after the end of the ramp time. Adjusting the pulse width controls the peak of the inductor current.
US07911801B2 Multilayer ceramic substrate and method for manufacturing the same
A laminate includes base material layers and interlayer constraining layers disposed therebetween. The base material layers are formed of a sintered body of a first powder including a glass material and a first ceramic material, and the interlayer constraining layer includes a second powder including a second ceramic material that will not be sintered at a temperature for melting the glass material, and is in such a state that the second powder adheres together by diffusion or flow of a portion of the first powder including the glass material included in the base material layer at the time of baking. The incorporated element is in such a state that an entire periphery thereof is covered with the interlayer constraining layer.
US07911796B2 Avionics chassis
An avionics chassis comprises a housing having a substantially thermally non-conductive frame comprising a composite of carbon fibers laid up in an epoxy matrix. The housing also includes at least two walls, at least one of which is a thermally conductive wall comprising a composite of carbon fibers in a carbonized matrix, and a plurality of spaced, thermally-conductive, card rails provided on the at least two walls. The at least two walls are mounted to the frame in opposing relationship such that corresponding card rails on the walls define an effective slot therebetween in which a printed circuit board may be received and the card rails and the at least one thermally conductive wall form a thermally conductive path from the interior to the exterior.
US07911792B2 Direct dipping cooled power module and packaging
A power module package including a fully enclosed package comprising sidewalls; wherein at least one of said sidewalls includes a conductive substrate; wherein circuit elements are mounted on said conductive substrate on a first side comprising an inner side of said enclosed package; and, wherein a majority area of a second side of said conductive substrate is exposed, the power package has an improved interconnection configuration and compact power I/O terminals, offering low electrical parasitics, a plurality of individual power module packages can be attached seamlessly and positioned in a liquid coolant with multiple top portion open channels, as well as attached to a laminar power connector (busbar) to form various electrical power conversion topologies, the module offers low thermal resistance and low electrical parasitics, in addition to small volume, light weight and high reliability.
US07911782B2 Liquid submersion cooling system
A portable, self-contained liquid submersion cooling system that is suitable for cooling a number of electronic devices, including cooling heat-generating components in computer systems and other systems that use electronic, heat-generating components. The electronic device includes a housing having an interior space, a dielectric cooling liquid in the interior space, a heat-generating electronic component disposed within the space and submerged in the dielectric cooling liquid, and a pump for pumping the liquid into and out of the space, to and from a heat exchanger that is fixed to the housing outside the interior space. The heat exchanger includes a cooling liquid inlet, a cooling liquid outlet, and a flow path for cooling liquid therethrough from the cooling liquid inlet to the cooling liquid outlet. An air-moving device such as a fan can be used to blow air across the heat exchanger to increase heat transfer.
US07911781B2 Electronic device
An electronic device includes a housing, a plurality of heat-dissipating fins, and a heat-dissipating fan. The housing defines a receiving space, and an opening communicating the receiving space with the outside environment. The housing includes a power socket disposed in the receiving space. The heat-dissipating fins are disposed in the receiving space. The heat-dissipating fan includes a power plug portion corresponding to the power socket. The heat-dissipating fan is mountable in the receiving space through the opening so as to provide air flow across the heat-dissipating fins. The power plug portion is inserted into the power socket upon insertion of the heat-dissipating fan into the receiving space. The heat-dissipating fan is removable from the housing through the opening for cleaning of the heat-dissipating fan and the heat-dissipating fins.
US07911780B2 Methods and apparatus for cooling electronic devices through user interfaces
An electronic device can be provided with a user interface component and a cooling component contained within a housing. The housing may include at least one surface having an opening formed therethrough, and the user interface may include one port formed therethrough. The user interface port may provide at least a first portion of a passageway between the housing opening and the cooling component. The passageway may allow fluids to be exchanged between the cooling component and the housing opening for cooling the electronic device.
US07911778B2 Vibration isolation within disk drive testing systems
A disk drive test slot includes a housing that defines a test compartment for receiving and supporting a disk drive transporter carrying a disk drive for testing. The housing also defines an open end that provides access to the test compartment for insertion and removal of disk drive transporter carrying a disk drive for testing. The disk drive test slot also includes a mounting plate connected to the housing. One or more isolators are disposed between the housing and the mounting plate. The one or more isolators are operable to inhibit transmission of vibrational energy between the housing and the mounting plate.
US07911765B2 Metalized film capacitor, case mold type capacitor using the same, inverter circuit, and vehicle drive motor drive circuit
A metalized film capacitor capable of exhibiting stable performance in a wide temperature range is provided. The metalized film capacitor has an elliptical cross sectional shape having a major axis of 60 mm or above. In this capacitor, offset for shifting in the width direction of a pair of metalized film is set to 1.2 mm or above. Since the bonding state between metal vapor-deposited electrode and metal sprayed electrode formed on the end surface is stable, a stable contact between metal sprayed electrode and dielectric film is maintained, thereby preferably maintaining tan σand exhibiting excellent performance even if the use temperature range is increased and the thermal stress is increased.
US07911761B2 Fault-tolerant materials and methods of fabricating the same
The present invention provides compliant/stretchable electroactive materials and devices made from those materials which exhibit fault-tolerant properties, i.e., self-healing/clearing properties. The present invention also provides systems, which incorporate the subject materials and/or devices, as well as methods of fabricating the subject materials and devices.
US07911758B2 Low power solenoid control system and method
A low power solenoid control circuit including a power source in series with a sensing element and a first diode, an inductor to actuate a valve, an energy storage device to store and discharge energy into the inductor, diodes to control current flow, and switches and a controller to control the circuit. The circuit may be operated by closing a first switch, thereby allowing a source current to flow through an inductor; opening the first switch, thereby forcing a charge current to flow through an energy storage device utilizing the inductance of the inductor; repeating these steps until the energy storage device is sufficiently charged; and upon command, closing a second switch, thereby forcing a discharge current to flow from the energy storage device to the inductor causing the inductor to produce an actuating magnetic field thereby actuating a mechanical valve.
US07911749B2 Electrostatic discharge protection device for pad and method and structure thereof
An ESD protection device for a pad includes an adjusting circuit, a snapback element and a control circuit. The adjusting circuit includes a silicon controlled rectifier (SCR) coupled to the pad. The SCR includes a first diode. The snapback element is coupled to a first N pole of the first diode when a second diode is not used, and is coupled to a second N pole of the second diode when the second diode is used. The control circuit is coupled to the first N pole. In a normal operation mode, the control circuit provides a first voltage to the first N pole so that the first N pole collects a plurality of charges and the SCR is turned off. In an ESD mode, the control circuit does not provide the first voltage to the first N pole so that the first N pole does not collect the charges.
US07911746B2 GFCI with self-test and remote annunciation capabilities
Methods and techniques are disclosed for an intelligent GFCI device (IGFCI) having a microcontroller programmed to perform self-testing on a periodic basis and communicate the results of this testing to a remote monitoring device such as a remote central logging computer. In some implementations, with two-way (bidirectional) communication, a plurality of self-testing IGFCI devices can be tested and reset systematically from a remotely located device to reduce disruption to users. The IGFCI device can be configured to be automatically reset or manually reset upon the application of AC power to the device.
US07911738B2 Magnetic head slider with resistive heating film meandering in stacking direction
According to embodiments of the present invention, a magnetic head slider provided with a heater disposed near a read element to adjust flying height, is required to increase a thermal protrusion by heat generated by the heater without increasing a thermal protrusion attributable to heat generated by a recording current or environmental temperature. A magnetic head slider includes a thin-film head unit including a read element, a heater having a thin heating line extended above and below the read element, a write element, and an insulating layer of alumina (Al2O3) or the like insulating those components. The thin heating line of the heater is formed from a thin resistive film of NiCr or the like. The thin heating line of the heater is extended above and below the read element so as to meander in a zigzag shape in a direction perpendicular to the device forming surface. The thin heating line has a thickness between about 0.1 and 0.2 μm, a width between about 1 and 3 μm, a length of about 100 μm, and a resistance between about 50 and 500 Ω.
US07911735B1 Perpendicular magnetic recording head utilizing a nonmagnetic underlayer layer
The method and system for providing a perpendicular magnetic recording (PMR) head are described. The PMR head includes a base layer, a nonmagnetic metal underlayer on the base layer, and a PMR pole on the nonmagnetic metal underlayer. The PMR pole has a top that is wider than its bottom. The base layer has a first hardness with respect to a pole trim. The nonmagnetic metal underlayer has a second hardness with respect to the pole trim. The second hardness is less than the first hardness.
US07911728B2 Method for servowriting a patterned-media perpendicular magnetic recording disk using position error signal (PES) alignment fields
A servowriting method for a patterned-media magnetic recording disk uses a special position error signal (PES) alignment pattern located in each servo sector. A gross feedforward correction signal to compensate for gross eccentricity of the disk relative to the center of rotation of the servowriter spindle is applied to the actuator. With the gross feedforward correction applied to the actuator the read head generally follows a data track centerline and will detect signals from PES alignment fields as each servo sector passes the read head. This results in a readback signal at each servo sector that represents the fractional track-width radial offset of the read head in that servo sector from a data track centerline. The set of radial offsets for all of the servo sectors is used to modify or fine tune the gross feedforward correction signal that is applied during the servowrite process. This enables the servowriter write head to then precisely follow a track centerline so that the discrete islands in the PES fields can be magnetized according to the desired pattern.
US07911727B2 Controlling motion of storage media
An apparatus for writing data to a data storage medium on which data is stored in data groups (N−3 to N+1) comprising tracks extending across and spaced from a reference edge of the storage medium includes a control system operable to cause i) a track reference difference value representative of a difference in a distance between the tracks of an existing data group (N−1) on the storage medium and the reference edge and a distance between the reference edge and the tracks of a data group (N) to be written to the storage medium such that it is the next data group following the existing data group (N−1) or ii) data from which such a difference value can be derived to be included in at least one of frame (A1 to A5) to be written between the existing data group and the next data group such that the tracks of the at least one frame are spaced from the reference edge by substantially the same distance as the tracks of the existing data group.
US07911725B2 Hard disk, control unit for a disk device, and method for controlling a disk device
A hard disk includes: a plurality of servo areas which are elongated radially from a center of the hard disk to an outward thereof over tracks thereof; and a plurality of data areas which are respectively provided between the plurality of servo areas; wherein alternative operation is conducted per servo sector containing one of the plurality of servo areas and a data area provided subsequent to the one of the plurality of servo areas and having a defect created therein when a user sector containing at least a portion of the data area and functioning as an access unit has the defect therein.
US07911720B2 Lens module
A lens module for being fixed to a substrate by UV glues includes a lens barrel and a lens holder integratedly formed at a bottom of the lens barrel. The lens barrel has a hollow receiving groove for receiving an optical lens therein. The lens holder defines a containing cavity communicating with the receiving groove and penetrating through a bottom thereof to form a plurality of inner walls surrounding the containing cavity. The lens holder further defines a plurality of outer pillars spaced from each other and arranged apart from outer peripheries of the corresponding inner walls to define gaps therebetween. The UV glues are distributed to a bottom of each outer pillar so that ultraviolet lights can pass through the intervals between the outer pillars to adequately irradiate and solidify the UV glues for making the lens module fixed to the substrate firmly.
US07911710B2 Telemicroscopic apparatus for the enhancement of simultaneous bi-level telescope viewing of objects both far and near
Miniature telescopes of both Galilean and astronomical design are fashioned to allow bi-level viewing, simultaneously, of both magnified scope images and non magnified normal images of both far and near objects or areas. Improvements in bi-leveling telescopes involve: objective lens aspherics, ocular lens materials of high refractive indices, anti-reflective fabric like materials for internal light control. This combination of innovations results in a bi-levelable miniature telemicroscope displaying wider magnified fields which display brighter and clearer imagery. Peripheral chromatic and spherical aberrations are considerably reduced even in shorter length telescope units. These shorter length scopes are spectacle mounted in such a way that the front surface of a spectacle carrier lens is coplanar with the telescope objective lens. Tintings and other coatings can now be applied to any of the scope's lenses or internal disks as well as to spectacle carrier lenses.
US07911704B2 Projection optical system and image display apparatus
A disclosed projection optical system for projecting and forming an enlarged image of an image displayed in a planar manner as an object includes: a lens system including, from an object side, at least a lens group providing telecentricity to an object space side, a lens group controlling divergence of angles of view, a diaphragm, a lens group converging the angles of view, and a lens group converging and subsequently enlarging the angles of view; and a catoptric system disposed on an image side relative to the lens system and including a mirror having negative power. Each lens group of the lens system and the mirror having negative power share an optical axis and the optical axis is shifted relative to a center of an object surface.
US07911699B2 Optical diffuser with UV blocking coating
A diffuser is provided in an illumination system, where the diffuser is capable of blocking significant amounts of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In certain example embodiments of this invention, the diffuser includes a glass substrate which supports a UV coating(s) that blocks significant amounts of UV radiation thereby reducing the amount of UV radiation which can makes its way through the diffuser. In certain example embodiments, the coating may including particulate so that the coating may both diffuse visible light and perform UV blocking.
US07911698B2 Programmable optical processing device employing stacked controllable phase shifting elements in fractional fourier planes
A monolithic or hybrid integrated optical processor or optical processing system having a plurality of phase shifting array elements, each controlled by respective control signals, and arranged so that each phase shifting array element lies in a different fractional Fourier transform plane. In various embodiments, at least a portion of the resulting system is implemented in a stack of element materials. In one embodiment, a segment of graded index material lies between consecutive phase shifting array elements. Other features include obtaining images from an electronically-controllable image source, using an image sensor to change the processed image into an electrical output, and using at least one of the phase shifting array element to introduce a phase shift.
US07911692B2 Screen and projection system
A screen includes: a substrate; and a first color material layer disposed on one surface of the substrate, wherein the first color material layer includes a first color material adapted to absorb light with a part of wavelengths of an incident light, and the first color material has a peak absorption wavelength in a visible light range, and a size of causing Mie scattering on the light in the visible light range.
US07911689B2 Microscope
A microscope includes an observation optical unit that has a zoom optical system having variable zoom power and an objective lens optically connected to the zoom optical system, the observation optical unit receiving observation light emitted from an observation sample, a focusing unit that has a focusing mechanism to focus the observation optical unit on the observation sample, a light source unit that emits illuminating light to illuminate the observation sample, and an illuminating unit that has a reflecting optical element disposed in the observation optical unit but out of an optical path of the zoom optical system, the illuminating unit being partially disposed in the focusing unit, the illuminating unit illuminating the observation sample with the illuminating light via the reflecting optical element and the objective lens.
US07911688B2 Infrared lens, infrared camera, and night vision
An infrared lens 1a includes first to third lenses L1 to L3 which are made of zinc sulfide and arranged in this order from an object side. Each of the first to third lenses L1 to L3 is configured as a positive meniscus lens of which convex surface is opposed to the object. The lenses L1 to L3 are formed by heat-press molding raw powder of zinc sulfide using a lens-shaped mold. In addition, a concave surface (the surface opposed to the image side) of the first lens L1 is formed as a diffractive surface.
US07911686B2 Optical module and optical communication system
An optical module, which is arranged in an optical transmission path, includes an optical amplifying unit configured with a semiconductor, wherein the optical amplifying unit amplifies light input from the optical transmission path, and an optical element configured with a semiconductor, wherein the optical element propagates the light amplified by the optical amplifying unit to the optical transmission path.
US07911680B2 Micromirror device having a vertical hinge
A mirror device comprises: a plurality of electrodes disposed on a substrate; a hinge connected to at least one of the electrodes; a mirror connected to the hinge and corresponding to at least one of the electrodes. The mirror device further comprises a barrier layer is disposed between the hinge and mirror, and/or between the hinge and electrode. Also noted is a mirror device production method for producing such-configured mirror device. Furthermore, this invention discloses a projection apparatus implemented with a mirror device manufactured and assembled according to the configuration as described.
US07911665B1 Preserving pure primary colors in color transforms
The subject matter disclosed herein relates to purifying muddied primary color values of an output color space and correcting a portion of non-primary color values of the output color space so as to smoothly transition from the purified primary color values to uncorrected non-primary color values.
US07911663B2 Image reading apparatus
Provided is an image reading apparatus including: an image reading sensor which reads an image from an original; and a mounting portion which mounts the image reading sensor, wherein the image reading sensor includes a positioning portion which is brought into contact with the mounting portion and adjusts the relative position of the image reading sensor with respect to the mounting portion; and a pressing portion which presses the positioning portion so as to bring the positioning portion into contact with the mounting portion.
US07911660B2 Method and apparatus for data capture from imaged documents
Methods and apparatus are disclosed for locating an area of interest within a digital image of a form captured by an imaging scanner. Specific examples include methods and apparatus for optical mark reading with a digital imaging scanner. In many of the methods, an image of a response form is captured by a scanner, and “target” areas for possible responses are located within the image based upon an expected location being adjusted as necessary for certain error-inducing defects in the forms or scanning process. Also disclosed are steps to normalize the darkness values of pixels captured from an optically scanned form.
US07911649B2 Image outputting apparatus and control method thereof with output of color copy despite setting for black and white copy
The present invention provides an image outputting apparatus and a control method thereof, accommodated to a contradictory need of security improvement and TCO reduction in a rational manner. An embodiment of the present invention performs a setting of a black-and-white copy output by receiving an instruction from a user to output a black-and-white copy of a read document. Then, an LVBC extraction part and an LVBC color determining part determine whether the read document includes a color LVBC. An image-output controlling part outputs a color output of the read document when the read document has been determined to include color coded information, despite the setting of a black-and-white copy output.
US07911645B2 Apparatus and method for adjusting density in image forming
In order to adjust density of a colorant of an image forming apparatus, a plurality of adjustment condition data sets is provided. An image forming engine of the image forming apparatus forms a test pattern image of a test pattern using the colorant. A detector of the image forming apparatus detects a density level of the colorant from the test pattern image to output a detected density. A controller of the image forming apparatus selects one of the plurality of adjustment condition data sets as a selected adjustment condition data set, and performs density adjustment according to the selected adjustment condition data set.
US07911641B2 Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus having: a reading section that reads out an image of an original document placed on a document table; a storage section that stores image data obtained by reading out the image by the reading section; a sheet feeding section including a sheet feeding tray and an attachment detection sensor that detects whether or not the sheet feeding tray has been attached; and a control section that executes reading out of the image in a mode in which the image is read while the reading section scans the image of the original document placed on the document table, wherein the control section, when the attachment or detachment of the tray is detected during execution in the mode, suspends the reading out of the image, deletes the image data obtained from the original document image whose reading was suspended, and moves the scanning unit to a home position.
US07911638B2 Image processing apparatus, image processing method, and image processing program
An image processing apparatus has a capability of displaying a preview image on a display under the control of a controller even in the middle of a process of reading document pages in a binding reading mode in which a large number of document sheets are read by repeatedly performing reading on a part-by-part basis until all pages of a given set of document sheets have been read. The preview capability enables a user to easily detect if an error occurred in reading one or all of the pages. If a particular page of image data is detected to have an error, re-reading of that page is performed using a scanner unit. The page of image data having the error is discarded and the image data obtained by re-reading is inserted in place of the discarded page. After completion of re-reading, reading of the remaining pages of the document set can continue in the binding reading mode. This leads to a drastic improvement in operational efficiency.
US07911636B2 Multi-head press data delivery rate control
In a printing method and systems, segments of a first print job are distributed to respective downstream processors and are processed to provide printable frames, which are stored in respective print queues. Each print queue supplies a respective one or more printheads. The printable frames are sequentially printed on a continuously transported receiver. A maximum printing duration of each of the print queues is computed periodically during the printing. The transport speed is regulated to trend the maximum printing durations toward a predetermined baseline. The sending of a second print job to the downstream processors is delayed, while processing of the first print job is completed. The delaying is counter to the regulating and reduces the print queues of the first print job non-uniformly relative to the baseline.
US07911634B2 Method and system for maintaining device specific image corrections for printers utilizing remote raster image processing
An embodiment of the invention generally relates to a method for providing printing services. A database is configured to store data related to a plurality of print engines. The data includes static and time-varying characteristics for each of the print engines of the plurality of print engines. A first print engine is selected from the plurality of print engines. A print job is initiated for the first print engine. The print job is processed at a remote printing service based on data related to the first print engine to create a first print engine print file. The first print engine file is provided to the first print engine.
US07911632B2 Image formation apparatus and image formation system
An image formation apparatus includes: a job input unit receiving job inputs of performing image formation from image data; a job registration unit registering the jobs of performing image formation from the image data together with priorities in an order of execution of the jobs and link information showing a link relationship between the jobs; a job management unit managing the order of execution of the registered jobs; a priority change unit performing a priority change in response to a priority change request for the registered jobs; and an image formation unit executing the jobs according to the order of execution, wherein the priority change unit changes a priority or priorities of another job or the other jobs in a link relationship with a job on which a priority change has been performed to the same priority as the job on which a priority change has been performed.
US07911630B2 Print processing system, control apparatus and control method thereof, and computer-readable recording medium
In order to solve one or more problems encountered in the grouping of print jobs spanning a plurality of servers, a control apparatus within a print processing system includes: a designation unit for designating a plurality of print jobs; a generation unit for acquiring the plurality of print jobs from an applicable server, and generating a combined print job that includes the plurality of print jobs; and a setting unit which, when an error has occurred in the acquisition of the plurality of print jobs, is for setting whether to exercise control so as to execute processing of all of the plurality of print jobs after recovery from the error is achieved, or so as to execute processing of print jobs with the exception of the print job in which the error occurred.
US07911628B2 Print system and control method therefor
A print system includes an image reading apparatus that describes original document image data read from an original document in a page description language, and transmits the data described in the page description language as a copy job; and a printing apparatus that receives the copy job transmitted from the image reading apparatus, and prints out an image corresponding to the original document image data, wherein the image reading apparatus detects a copy preparing operation that is performed prior to the transmission of the copy job and transmits an occupancy notification for notifying occupancy of the printing apparatus to the printing apparatus according to the result of the detection, and wherein the printing apparatus accepts a copy job from the image reading apparatus in accordance with the occupancy notification.
US07911627B2 Data structure for personalized photo-book products
A data structure for a photo book kit includes a first data object, a second data object, and a third data object. The first data object includes first image data to define a first image, and a first image location to define the position of the first image on a page of a photo book. The second data object includes second image data to define a second image and a second image location to define the position of the second image on a cover of the photo book. The third data object includes third image data to define a third image and a third image location to define the position of the third image on a book accessory that is to be assembled with the photo book to form the personalized photo book kit.
US07911619B2 Low-noise fiber optic sensor utilizing a laser source
A fiber-optic sensor includes an optical fiber coil and a laser source optically coupled to the coil. Light from the source is transmitted to the coil as a first signal propagating along the coil in a first direction and a second signal propagating along the coil in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The optical paths of the first signal and the second signal are substantially reciprocal with one another and the first signal and the second signal are combined together after propagating through the coil to generate a third signal. The laser source is frequency-modulated or can have a coherence length longer than a length of the coil.
US07911610B2 Optical measuring device
The present invention relates to an optical measuring device which includes container for storing a sample, and an electrode pair for generating an electric field distribution upon impression of a voltage by an electrical power supply, thereby generating or extinguishing diffraction grating formed by a density modulation of particles within the sample. The particles within the sample are evaluated based upon a temporal change of an intensity of a diffracted light beam obtained by irradiating a light beam upon the diffraction grating formed by the density modulation of the particles. The electrodes constituting the electrode pair are configured to have a comb-like electrode teeth that are parallel with each other and are arranged such that the electrode teeth of one electrode are inserted between the electrode teeth of the other electrode. From such configuration, an optical measuring device of a high sensitivity and excellent S/N ratio can be obtained.
US07911606B2 Method for operating an optical emission spectrometer
The invention relates to a method for the spectral analysis of metal samples with the following steps: a. Recording of a spectrum of an unknown sample with a number of preset excitation parameters, b. Comparison of the spectrum with stored spectra of a number of control samples, c. Determination of the control sample with the best concordance of spectra, d. Setting of the excitation parameters, which are stored for the best and closest control sample determined in step c, e. Recording of the spectrum of the unknown sample with the excitation parameters set in step d, f. Calculation of the intensity ratios of the analysis lines stored for the control sample and the internal standards of the spectrum recorded in step e.
US07911599B2 Reticle defect inspection apparatus and reticle defect inspection method
A reticle defect inspection apparatus that can carry out a defect inspection with high detection sensitivity are provided. The apparatus includes an optical system of transmitted illumination for irradiating one surface of a sample with a first inspection light, an optical system of reflected illumination for irradiating another surface of the sample with a second inspection light, and a detecting optical system that can simultaneously detect a transmitted light obtained by the first inspection light being passed through the sample and a reflected light obtained by the second inspection light being reflected by the sample. And the optical system of transmitted illumination includes a focusing lens driving mechanism for correcting a focal point shift of the transmitted light resulting from thickness of the sample.
US07911598B2 Method for cleaning an EUV lithography device, method for measuring the residual gas atmosphere and the contamination and EUV lithography device
Components (30) in the interior of an EUV lithography device for extreme ultraviolet and soft X-ray wavelength range are cleaned by igniting a plasma, adjacent to the component (30) to be cleaned, using electrodes (29), wherein the electrodes (29) are adapted to the form of the component (30) to be cleaned. The residual gas atmosphere is measured spectroscopically on the basis of the plasma. An emission spectrum is preferably recorded in order to monitor the degree of cleaning. An optical fiber cable (31) with a coupling-in optical unit (32) is advantageously used for this purpose. Moreover, in order to monitor the contamination in the gas phase within the vacuum chambers during the operation of an EUV lithography device, it is proposed to provide modules configured to initiate a gas discharge and to detect radiation emitted on account of the gas discharge. The contamination in the gas phase can be deduced from the analysis of the measured spectrum.
US07911597B2 Inspection apparatus to simultaneously measure the sugar content and weight of fruit
An inspection instrument includes main unit, Brix testing unit, weight measurement unit, display unit, control unit, and label printer; both of Brix and weight of an object pending test are tested and measured at the same time by the Brix testing unit and the weight measurement unit; resultant data are directly displayed on the inspection instrument by the display unit; data are directly printed on a label; and the label is outputted to be directly attached to the fruit.
US07911592B2 Method and system for identifying moving object, and method and system for inspecting moving object by radiation imaging
Disclosed is a method for identifying a moving object, comprising: a driving-in step of moving a moving object into a passage, a velocity measuring step of measuring a moving velocity of the moving object, a light beam emitting step of emitting light beams from one side of the passage, a light beam receiving step of receiving the light beams not shielded by the moving object at other side of the passage, a profile determining step of determining a profile of at least one portion of the moving object based on the received light beams and the measured moving velocity of the moving object, and an identifying step of determining type of the moving object by comprising the profile of the at least one portion of the moving object with information of moving objects stored previously. The method and the system according to the present invention can adopt corresponding scanning controlling manners for different vehicles, so that inspection information of inspected vehicles is complete, inspection images are of high quality, and radiation dose received by drivers are minimal.
US07911576B2 Manufacturing method of liquid crystal display device
The present disclosure relates to a manufacturing method of a liquid crystal display device. In one aspect, the method may include laminating two or more multipiece boards to each other by way of a sealing material, applying surface polishing to at least one of the multipiece boards using an etchant, and separating the multipiece boards into respective liquid crystal cells by cutting. In further aspects, the sealing material may include individual sealing materials which are formed on regions of the respective liquid crystal cells, an outer peripheral sealing material which surrounds the respective individual sealing materials and forms an opening at least in a portion thereof, and a weir sealing material of a pattern in which the weir sealing material is formed inside the outer peripheral sealing material and in the vicinity of the opening.
US07911571B2 Electro-optic device, electronic instrument, and projection display
The invention provides, an electro-optic device that can include a pair of substrates sandwiching an electro-optic substance therebetween. The electro-optic device can further include a coating member including an antistatic material and being disposed on a surface not opposing the electro-optic substance of at least one of the pair of substrates. Accordingly, problems of dust adhesion on the surface of the electro-optic device and dust projection can be solved so as to enable images with high quality to be displayed.
US07911570B2 Liquid crystal display device
The present invention provides a liquid crystal display device comprising at least: a backlight; a polarizer; a first optically anisotropic layer with a retardation of 210 to 300 nm at a wavelength of 550 nm; a second optically anisotropic layer with a retardation of 50 to 140 nm at a wavelength of 550 nm; a third optically anisotropic layer with negative optical anisotropy; a liquid crystal cell comprising upper and lower substrates facing each other and a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between the upper and lower substrates; a fourth optically anisotropic layer with a retardation of 50 to 140 nm at a wavelength of 550 nm; a first optically anisotropic layer with a retardation of 210 to 300 nm at a wavelength of 550 nm; and a polarizer, arranged in piles in this order from the backlight, the second optically anisotropic layer comprising at least a liquid crystal film with a fixed nematic hybrid liquid crystal orientation structure. The liquid crystal display device provides bright images and is high in contrast and less in viewing angle dependency.
US07911564B2 Polarizing plate, image display, and method of manufacturing polarizing plate
A polarizing plate is provided that has high hardness, can have a reduced thickness, and has excellent in polarization properties. The polarizing plate includes a polarizer, an adhesive layer, and a cured resin layer. The adhesive layer is stacked on at least one surface of the polarizer. The cured resin layer is stacked on the surface of the adhesive layer located on the opposite side to the polarizer. The adhesive layer has a thickness in the range of 0.1 μm to 10 μm. The cured resin layer is formed of a solventless photocurable composition containing component (A) and component (B), with component (A) being at least one of a polyfunctional acrylic monomer and a polyfunctional methacrylic monomer and component (B) being a photocurable prepolymer.
US07911553B2 Liquid crystal display device
The present invention provides a liquid crystal display device which aims at the reduction of thickness thereof while preventing a holder and a light emitting element of a backlight from coming into contact with each other. The liquid crystal display device includes a backlight and a liquid crystal display panel which is arranged above the backlight, wherein the backlight includes a frame-like holder and a light emitting element which is housed in the inside of the holder, the holder includes support portions which support the liquid crystal display panel, the light emitting element is housed in the inside of the holder at the support portion on a side opposite to the liquid crystal display panel, the support portion includes a recessed portion which is formed on a side opposite to a side which supports the liquid crystal display panel and at a position which faces the light emitting element in an opposed manner. A distal end portion of the light emitting element on a side which faces the support portion in an opposed manner is positioned in the inside of the recessed portion.
US07911551B2 Liquid crystal display device and fabrication method thereof
A method for fabricating a display includes providing a first substrate divided into a pixel part and first and second pad parts, forming a gate electrode and a gate line in the pixel part of the first substrate and forming a gate pad line in the first pad part of the first substrate, forming a first insulation film and a semiconductor film over the gate electrode, the gate line and the gate pad line, forming an active pattern over the gate electrode from the semiconductor film with the first insulation film interposed therebetween and forming a contact hole exposing a portion of the gate pad line using a single mask, forming source and drain electrodes in the pixel part, forming a pixel electrode in the pixel part, forming a gate pad electrode electrically connected with the gate pad line via the contact hole, forming a second insulation film over the pixel electrode and the gate pad electrode, exposing a portion of the pixel electrode and at least one portion of the gate pad electrode, and attaching the first substrate and a second substrate.
US07911549B2 Liquid crystal display device
There is provided an MVA type liquid crystal display device having high brightness and excellent display quality. The liquid crystal display device includes a pair of substrates disposed to be opposite to each other, a liquid crystal sealed between the pair of substrates, plural pixel areas each including a pixel electrode 16a formed on one of the substrates and a pixel electrode 16b separated from the pixel electrode 16a, a TFT 20 disposed in each of the pixel areas and including a source electrode 22 electrically connected to the pixel electrode 16a, a linear projection 42 formed on the other substrate and to regulate alignment of the liquid crystal, and a control capacitance section to capacity couple the source electrode 22 and the pixel electrode 16b and including a control capacitance electrode 33 which is electrically connected to the source electrode 22, is opposite to at least part of the pixel electrode 16b through an insulating film, and at least part of which is disposed to overlap with the linear projection 42 when viewed perpendicularly to a substrate surface and extends along the linear projection 42.
US07911546B2 Liquid crystal device and electronic apparatus
A liquid crystal device includes a substrate, an opposing substrate disposed so as to face the substrate, a liquid crystal layer interposed between the substrate and the opposing substrate, and a plurality of spacers disposed between the substrate and the opposing substrate and having different aspect ratios from each other.
US07911538B2 Estimation of block artifact strength based on edge statistics
A method and apparatus estimates the strength of block artifacts in compressed video is described. Block artifacts are associated with the block-based image/video compression schemes. The block artifacts deteriorate the quality of compressed image and video, especially at low bit rates. A deblocking method measures the strength of the block artifacts at each block boundary and adjusts the deblocking parameters accordingly to improve the performance of the overall deblocking process. A method and device to measure the strength of block artifacts based on the global and local edge information of the current picture is provided.
US07911534B2 Video processing apparatus, ancillary information processing apparatus and video processing method
A video processing apparatus including a display comprises a filter for receiving a video signal containing video information and ancillary information related to the video information and having a predetermined frequency. The filter passes a component corresponding to the frequency of the video signal. An ancillary information extractor extracts the ancillary information from the video signal passed by the filter. A video processor processes the video signal so that the ancillary information extracted by the ancillary information extractor is displayed on the display. The video processing apparatus is able to enhance the reliability of ancillary information extraction by removing the influence of noise.
US07911533B2 Method and apparatus for processing information, storage medium, and program
In a television set, image quality is adjusted in accordance with parameters calculated on the basis of adjustment values used in the past, depending on a feature of an image and an environmental status. A weight calculator determines a weight depending on the manner in which a user performs a volume control operation. A cumulative weight memory outputs a cumulative weight corresponding to the feature value. Output volume values used in past are stored in a volume value generator. The volume value generator calculates output volume values corresponding to a feature value on the basis of parameters indicating final adjustment values, the feature value, the weight, and the cumulative weight. The calculated volume values are stored in the volume value generator. Under the control of a system controller, the volume values stored in the volume value generator are output to a coefficient generator.
US07911532B2 Notebook computer and method of capturing document image using image pickup device of such notebook computer
The notebook computer includes a base and an upper cover. The base has a keyboard. The upper cover includes a screen, an image pickup device and a close-up lens. The upper cover is rotatable with respect to the base such that the image pickup device is able to capture an image of a document on a working plane. After the document image is obtained by the image pickup device, a built-in image processing program performs correction on the document image so as to obtain a corrected document image.
US07911531B2 Battery, camera and camera system
A battery takes in a charge current value or a discharge current value from a current detection device at predetermined sampling intervals. Then, based upon the current value, a power consumption quantity representing the extent to which power has been consumed during a sampling interval is calculated and a total power consumption quantity is determined by sequentially adding the power consumption quantity corresponding to each sampling interval. Based upon the total power consumption quantity calculated at each sampling interval, a determination device determines as to whether or not the battery needs to be refreshed, and the determination results are transmitted to the camera. The camera informs the user that the battery needs to be refreshed if the determination device judges that a refresh operation is necessary. The sampling interval may be set longer when the power to the camera is in an OFF state compared to when the power to the camera is in an ON state.
US07911530B2 Digital camera and system capable of sharing power with a mobile device
In the digital camera that can be used in connection to a mobile phone or other mobile electronic devices and the system thereof, a battery mounted in each device is shared to allow power to be supplied between the devices, and allow both devices to be used for longer hours. The digital camera and the mobile phone are electrically connectable by a connection cable. Generally, a power supply selection switch is set to A, and a power supply selection switch is set to D. The digital camera receives power supplied from a battery, and the mobile phone receives power supplied form a battery. From this state, when the power supply selection switch is switched to C, power is supplied from the battery to the mobile phone. On the other hand, when the power supply selection switch is set to B, and the power supply selection switch is set to D, power is supplied from the battery of the mobile phone to the digital camera.
US07911524B2 Photographing apparatus and still image photographing method thereof
A photographing apparatus and a still image photographing method thereof are provided where the photographing apparatus includes a lens for forming an optical image of a subject in an image pickup unit; an image pickup unit for photoelectrically converting the optical image formed through the lens to an electrical image signal, a signal processing unit for processing the photo-electrically converted image signal to a luminance signal and a color signal, a compression unit for compressing the processed image signal, and a storage unit for storing the compressed image signal, the image pickup unit comprising two vertical transmission registers for accumulating an image of an even filed and an image of an odd field in a memo. Accordingly, a clear still image can be obtained without an iris diaphragm.
US07911522B2 Amplification-type CMOS image sensor
Pixels are two-dimensionally arranged into rows and columns in an image sensing region of a solid-state image sensing device, and divided into a plurality of vertical blocks. A vertical signal line is connected to each pixel column. A voltage read out from a pixel is A/D-converted and held in a holding circuit. A vertical block selection circuit outputs a vertical block selection signal in response to a horizontal sync pulse. An intra-block line selection circuit selects one pixel row in one block or simultaneously selects a plurality of pixel rows in one block, in accordance with the selection signal and a signal for setting the number of lines to be selected. A pulse selector circuit supplies a pixel driving pulse signal to a pixel row selected by the intra-block line selection circuit.
US07911518B2 Variable exposure for color image sensor
A method of capturing an image of a scene using an image capture device having an array of pixels, wherein the array of pixels includes pixels of different colors, includes, for a first duration, capturing a first portion of the scene with a first plurality of the pixels of a first color, and for a second duration, capturing a second portion of the scene with a second plurality of the pixels of a second color. The first and second durations are different and the first and second durations are chosen, at least in part, to improve the signal to noise ratio of the image capture device.
US07911516B2 Camera module and electronic apparatus provided with it
A camera module that can be made thinner and achieves a beautiful image over an entire image region regardless of a subject distance is provided. The camera module includes a plurality of lens portions, each including at least one lens, a plurality of imaging regions, provided in one-to-one correspondence with the plurality of lens portions, each including a light-receiving surface that is substantially orthogonal to an optical axis direction of its corresponding lens portion, an imaging signal input portion to which a plurality of imaging signals outputted respectively from the plurality of imaging regions are inputted, a block division portion for dividing at least one imaging signal of the plurality of imaging signals into a plurality of blocks, a parallax computing portion for computing for each of the blocks a parallax between images formed respectively by the plurality of lens portions using the imaging signal, and a parallax correcting portion for correcting the plurality of imaging signals based on the parallax and performing an image synthesis.
US07911515B2 Imaging apparatus and method of processing video signal
Calculation is made about standard deviations of portions of high-frequency components GH, RH, and BH along respective predetermined directions. The portions of the high-frequency components GH, RH, and BH represent a prescribed number of pixels including an interpolation pixel located at a position corresponding to none of photosensor pixels in G, R, and B image sensors. The smallest one is detected among the calculated standard deviations. The predetermined direction relating to the detected smallest standard deviation is labeled as a highest-correlation direction in which the highest correlation occurs. Interpolation is implemented in response to portions of the high-frequency components GH, RH, and BH which correspond to the highest-correlation direction to generate a high-frequency interpolation-result signal RGBHI for the interpolation pixel and other pixels. Low-frequency components GL, RL, and BL are combined with the high-frequency interpolation-result signal RGBHI to generate high-definition green, red, and blue signals G(HD), R(HD), and B(HD).
US07911514B2 Defective pixel correction device
First pixel data of a pixel of interest is output from a first shift register, while second and third pixel data of neighboring pixels indicative of the same color are output from second and third shift registers, respectively. Differential data between estimated pixel data calculated from the second and third pixel data and the first pixel data is input to a comparator. A threshold value stored in a register is modulated by the estimated pixel data, and is input to the comparator as modulated threshold data. When the comparator judges that the differential data is greater than the modulated threshold data, a selector outputs the estimated pixel data as corrected pixel data.
US07911513B2 Simulating short depth of field to maximize privacy in videotelephony
An arrangement for simulating a short depth of field in a captured videophone image is provided in which the background portion of the image is digitally segregated and blurred to render it indistinct. Thus, the displayed video of a user in the foreground is kept in focus while the background appears to be out of focus. Image tracking or fixed templates are used to segregate an area of interest that is kept in focus from the remaining captured video image. Image processing techniques are applied to groups of pixels in the remaining portion to blur that portion of the captured video image. Such techniques include the application of a filter that are alternatively selected from convolution filters in the spatial domain (e.g., mean, median, or Gaussian filters), or frequency filters in the frequency domain (e.g., low-pass or Gaussian filters). User-selectable control is optionally implemented for controlling the type of foreground/background segregation technique utilized (i.e., dynamic face-tracking or fixed template shape), degree of blurring applied to the background, and on/off control of the background blurring.
US07911506B2 Image sensing apparatus and method of controlling the same
An image sensing apparatus comprises: an image sensor which converts an optical image of an object into an electrical signal; a first amplifier which amplifies the electrical signal by a first gain; a second amplifier which further amplifies the amplified electrical signal by a second gain that is changeable in finer steps than the first gain; and a control unit which obtains a third gain based on an quantity of incident light to said image sensor and adjusting the first and second gains so that a sum of the first and second gains equals the third gain. The control unit adjusts a gain component of the third gain, which cannot be adjusted by the first gain, using the second gain, and ensures the third gain by adjusting only the second gain when a brightness change more than the preset brightness difference does not continue for not less than a preset time.
US07911499B2 Digital camera
A sample analyzing apparatus includes: an irradiation system which irradiates a charged particle onto a sample having a concave portion partially on a surface thereof; a light condensing reflecting mirror which condenses luminescence obtained from the surface based on the irradiation of the charged particle; a light detector which detects the luminescence guided to the light condensing reflecting mirror; a charged particle detector which detects the charged particle reflected from the surface of the sample as a reflection charged particle; and a signal processor which controls the irradiation system to irradiate the charged particle intermittently, which obtains a shape of the sample on the basis of a detection signal outputted from the charged particle detector, and which identifies a material of the sample on the basis of an attenuation characteristic of a detection signal outputted from the light detector in a period from a time point in which the intermittent irradiation of the charged particle by the irradiation system is ended to a time point in which the intermittent irradiation of the charged particle by the irradiation system is started.
US07911494B2 Video overlay device of mobile telecommunication terminal
A video overlay device of a mobile telecommunication terminal comprises a multiplexer for outputting at least one of a first video data and a second video data; and a video overlay unit for overlaying at least one of the first and second video data with graphic data in accordance with a predetermined ratio. The multiplexer selectively outputs at least one of the first and second video data based on input video selection signals provided by a central processing unit (CPU).
US07911492B2 Line head and image forming apparatus incorporating the same
At least one light emission array includes a plurality of light emitting elements arrayed in a first direction. Each of the light emitting elements is an organic electroluminescence element. A monitor quantitatively monitors a light emitting state of at least one of the light emitting elements to obtain a monitored amount. A comparator compares the monitored amount and a reference amount. A controller performs a constant current control with respect to at least one of the light emitting elements in accordance with a result of the comparison performed by the comparator.
US07911487B2 Methods and systems for sub-pixel rendering with gamma adjustment
Sub-pixel rendering with gamma adjustment allows the luminance of the sub-pixel arrangement to match the non-linear gamma response of the human eye's luminance channel. For each of a subset of input sampled data indicating a region of an input image, a gamma-adjusted data value is generated for each input image data value in the subset using a local average of at least two input image data values. A sub-pixel rendering operation uses the subset of gamma-adjusted data values and the subset of input image data values to produce an output data value for each sub-pixel element on the display panel. A plurality of output data values collectively indicates an output image. The gamma adjustment allows the sub-pixel rendering to operate independently of the actual gamma of a display device. The sub-pixel rendering techniques with gamma adjustment may improve image contrast in high spatial frequency portions of an image.
US07911485B2 Method and apparatus for visual display calibration system
The present disclosure provides methods and apparatuses for calibration of a visual display. In one exemplary implementation of the invention, a visual display module is placed in a test station and a digital camera captures image data from the module. The digital camera can include a CCD digital camera and a lens for imaging. The captured image data is sent to an interface that compiles the data. The interface then calculates correction factors for the image data that may be used to achieve target color and brightness values for the image data. The interface then uploads the correction factors back to the visual display module.
US07911471B1 Method and apparatus for loop and branch instructions in a programmable graphics pipeline
A method and apparatus for executing loop and branch program instructions in a programmable graphics shader. The programmable graphics shader converts a sequence of instructions comprising a portion of a shader program and selects a first set of fragments to be processed. Subsequent sequences of instructions are converted until all of the instructions comprising the shader program have been executed on the first set of fragments. Each remaining set of fragments is processed by the shader program until all of the fragments are processed in the same manner. Furthermore, the instructions can contain one or more loop or branch program instructions that are conditionally executed. Additionally, when instructions within a loop as defined by a loop instruction are being executed a current loop count is pipelined through the programmable graphics shader and used as an index to access graphics memory.
US07911468B2 Storage medium storing a program for controlling the movement of an object
As a virtual plane used when converting a designation point, which is a touched position on a touch panel, into a control point, in a virtual three dimensional space, used for controlling a movement of an object, a first virtual plane is used when a ball is an object to be controlled; a second virtual plane is used when an object to be operated is a dog and an action mode thereof is an attention mode; a third virtual plane is used when the object to be operated is the dog and the action mode thereof is a lick mode; a fourth virtual plane is used when the object to be operated is the dog and the action mode thereof is a rope shake mode; and a fifth virtual plane is used when the object to be operated is the dog and the action mode thereof is a circle mode.
US07911466B2 Method and apparatus for editing timing diagram, and computer product
A timing diagram is displayed on GUI of a timing diagram editing apparatus. Numerical information indicating the repetition number for which a waveform image within the arbitrary number of clocks is repeated is received, and the repetition number is determined based on the numerical information. A sequence image is displayed on GUI by replaying the waveform image with a continuous waveform image that is formed by repeating the waveform image for the determined repetition number of times.
US07911465B2 Techniques for displaying information for collection hierarchies
Techniques for displaying information related to collection hierarchies. In one embodiment, an integrated direct-manipulation image-based interface is provided for displaying information related to collections. The interface also enables operations to be performed on collections and their elements. Multiple levels of the collection hierarchy are made visible and editable at the same time by the user interface.
US07911464B2 Electroluminescent display devices
The pixels of an active matrix display device have a current-driven light emitting display element, a drive transistor for driving a current through the display element, a storage capacitor for storing a pixel drive voltage to be used for addressing the drive transistor, a light-dependent device for detecting the brightness of the display element, and driver circuitry for providing data signals to the pixel external to the pixel array. This provides a pixel with optical feedback to compensate for display element ageing. The driver circuitry has a processing means for processing the feedback brightness signals and derives from them a threshold voltage for the drive transistor of the pixel as well as information relating to the performance of the display element, for ageing compensation.
US07911451B2 Method for searching menu in mobile communication terminal
The present invention relates to a method for searching a menu in a mobile communication terminal, wherein a plurality of main menus and sub menus of each main menu are simultaneously searched on a single menu screen using various navigational keys.
US07911435B2 Display and source driver thereof
A pixel circuit has a light emitting diode, a first driving transistor, a second driving transistor, a capacitor, and a switch unit. When a scan signal is asserted, the switch unit couples sources/drains of the second driving transistor respectively to a first and a second source/drain of the first driving transistor, and couples a gate and second source/drain of the first driving transistor together. When the scan signal is de-asserted, the switch unit decouples one of the sources/drains of the second driving transistor from the first/second source/drain of the first driving transistor, and decouples the gate from the second source/drain of the first driving transistor.
US07911430B2 Liquid crystal display
A liquid crystal display has an LCD controller, a microcomputer, and a storage section. The LCD controller is capable of setting up an image display period for performing display based on input image data and a black display period for performing display based on black display data, within one field period. The microcomputer switches the mode of the LCD controller between an impulse-drive mode having the image display period and the black display period within the one field period, and a hold drive mode having only the image display period. The storage section stores sets of reference gradation voltage data that are previously specified. A reference gradation voltage, which is generated at a reference gradation voltage generation section and used for driving the liquid crystal display panel, is variable according to the mode. Thus, it is possible to realize the liquid crystal display that can suppress changes in gamma characteristics so as to prevent deterioration of display quality even when the mode is switched.
US07911426B2 Light emitting display with external driving voltage provided at a single side
A light emitting display for providing a uniform current flow to a set of pixels to enable uniform brightness for the pixels. The pixels are situated in a pixel portion of a panel where the pixels are located at regions defined by a plurality of scan lines and a plurality of data lines. The uniform power is supplied by a set of power lines on each side of the pixel portion. The uniform voltage is maintained between the power lines by a set of power connection lines. The power connection lines connect the end points of two opposing power lines with interior points of the other two power lines at a set of electric junctions.
US07911425B2 Display device
In a current driving display device, a first operation in which pixel circuits in odd rows are sequentially scanned to set a current supplied to display elements and a second operation in which pixel circuits in even rows are sequentially scanned to set a current supplied to display elements are alternately repeated. The current set in the pixel circuits is supplied to the display elements in parallel with the first and second operations, and the number of times in the period is twice or more than the number of times in which the pixel circuit sets a current supplied to the display element.
US07911424B2 Automatic adaptation of the supply voltage of an electroluminescent display according to the desired luminance
A device for regulating the bias voltage of circuits for controlling columns of a matrix display capable of selecting columns to turn on the light-emitting diodes of the selected columns and of a selected line, the device including a first measurement circuit providing a first measurement signal representative of the highest voltage among the voltages of the selected columns; a second measurement circuit providing a second measurement signal representative of the lowest voltage among the voltages of the selected columns; and an adjustment circuit receiving the first and second measurement signals and capable of decreasing the bias voltage if the first measurement signal is smaller than a first comparison signal and of increasing the bias voltage if the second measurement signal is greater than a second comparison signal.
US07911423B2 Organic electro luminescence device
An organic electro luminescence device includes first, second, and third switching elements connected in series with each other, the first switching element controlled by a first signal, and the second and third switching elements controlled by a second signal, the second signal being different from the first signal, a first driving element connected to a power source, a storage capacitor, and the first, second and third switching elements, and a second driving element connected to the power source, the storage capacitor, an organic light emitting diode, and the third switching element.
US07911419B2 Plasma display panel driving method and plasma display apparatus
In a conventional method of driving a plasma display panel, for example, an auxiliary discharge is executed between an A electrode and a Y electrode to improve light-emission efficiency of a display discharge. However, since a phosphor layer is present between the A electrode and the Y electrode, the phosphor layer is exposed to a discharge, whereby there is a problem that its characteristic deteriorates. A method of driving a plasma display panel having a structure, in which at least three display electrodes X, Y, and Z used for a display discharge are provided to a display cell and no phosphor layer is formed between said display electrodes and a discharge space, the method comprising the steps of: varying a potential of at least one display electrode Z of said display electrodes during said display discharge; and making a potential of said at least one display electrode Z at a time of starting said display discharge different from that at a time of ending said display discharge.
US07911417B2 Method and apparatus for expressing gray levels in a plasma display panel
A method and apparatus for expressing a gray level with a decimal value in a plasma display panel that is capable of enhancing a picture quality. In the method and apparatus, a sustaining pulse is applied only to any one electrode of a sustaining electrode pair to thereby express a gray level with a decimal value.
US07911408B2 Management system of monitor
A management system of a monitor including at least one first monitor, a first computer to supply a video signal to the at least one first monitor having a first controller to transmit monitor information about the at least one first monitor through a network, a second monitor, and a second computer having a database to store the monitor information received through the network, and a second controller to display a graphic user interface to display the monitor information stored in the database on the second monitor. With this configuration, the monitor management system checks and/or manages a plurality of monitors connected to a plurality of computers connected to each other through a network from another computer.
US07911406B2 Modular digital UHF/VHF antenna
The invention relates to Radio Frequency (RF) antennas suitable for receiving and/or transmitting digital signals in the Ultra High Frequency (UHF) and/or Very High Frequency (VHF) ranges. The invention comprises a modular driven DUV antenna comprising a driven DUV element, an RF signal line RF communicatively connected to the driven DUV element, and an antenna mount supporting the DUV element; and a modular RF signal enhancer, supported by the antenna mount and selected from: an RF amplifier and a passive RF enhancer positioned to enhance the RF performance of the DUV antenna and comprising one of: an RF director, an RF reflector, and an RF booster.
US07911394B2 Multilevel and space-filling ground-planes for miniature and multiband antennas
An antenna system includes one or more conductive elements acting as radiating elements, and a multilevel or space-filling ground-plane, wherein said ground-plane has a particular geometry which affects the operating characteristics of the antenna. The return loss, bandwidth, gain, radiation efficiency, and frequency performance can be controlled through multilevel and space-filling ground-plane design. Also, said ground-plane can be reduced compared to those of antennas with solid ground-planes.
US07911388B2 Method and system for configurable antenna in an integrated circuit package
Aspects of a method and system for a configurable antenna in an integrated circuit package are provided. In a hybrid circuit comprising an integrated circuit bonded to a multi-layer package, one or more antenna parameters may be adjusted by configuring a plurality of antenna elements via one or more switching elements. In this regard, the antenna elements and/or the switching elements may be within and/or on the multi-layer package and/or within the integrated circuit. The switching elements may be MEMS switches on and/or within the IC and/or the multi-layer package. The IC may be bonded or mounted to the underside of the package and signals may be communicated between the IC and the package via one or more solder balls. The IC may comprise suitable logic, circuitry, and/or code for configuring the antenna elements. The antenna elements may be configured based on desired polarization, antenna gain, and/or frequency.
US07911386B1 Multi-band radiating elements with composite right/left-handed meta-material transmission line
Dual-band and multi-band radiating elements are described based on composite right/left-handed (CRLH) meta-material transmission line (TL). These elements can operate as resonators and/or antennas depending on feed-line configuration. The radiating elements are based on the fundamental backward wave supported by a composite right/left-handed (CRLH) meta-material transmission line (TL). Unit-cells of the transmission line comprise conductive patches coupled through vias to a ground plane. The physical size and operational frequencies of the radiating element is determined by the unit cell of the CRLH meta-material. This radiating element is configured for monopolar radiation at a first resonant frequency and patch-like radiation at a second resonant frequency. The first and second resonant frequencies are not constrained to a harmonic relationship.
US07911380B2 Hybrid positioning method and device
The invention relates to a method of determining the position of an aircraft by combining inertial data with range data between the aircraft and satellites, in which: a) the range is stored in a FIFO memory so as make delayed range data available at the output from the memory; b) the delayed range data is combined with inertial data to obtain an estimate of position data for the aircraft; and c) a watch is maintained for the appearance of a fault in the range data, and when such a fault is detected, at least some of the data stored in the FIFO memory is modifying so as to be neutralized.
US07911372B2 Active imaging using satellite communication system
An active imaging system uses communication satellites to identify the location and physical attributes of a target. A transmitter emits a time-synchronized signal directed to a target. The transmitter radiates L-band RF signals. The transmitter can be positioned on an airborne or ground platform. A constellation of communication satellites receives and time stamps the time-synchronized signal reflected from the target to form an active image of the target. The constellation of communication satellites have multiple roles other than active imaging, such as providing voice and data communications. The time-synchronized signal reflected from the target can be received by multiple satellites within the constellation of communication satellites or by multiple antenna disposed on one satellite within the constellation of communication satellites.
US07911366B2 Gray code current mode analog-to-digital converter
One embodiment of the present invention is a Gray code current-mode analog to digital (ADC) converter using a Gray code current-mode ADC building block. The Gray code current-mode ADC building block can produce a Gray code bit and a current output that is sent to a next Gray code ADC building block. In one embodiment, the Gray code current-mode ADC building block does not use a voltage comparator in a signal path of the current output. In one embodiment, an 8 bit analog-to-digital converter can have a 65 ns conversion time and consume only 10 mW of power with a single +5.0V supply.
US07911350B2 Alcohol detection system
A drunk driving detection system to be incorporated in a vehicle includes a steering wheel, a film, a pair of contact detection electrodes, an alcohol sensor, and a control circuit. The steering wheel is provided with an opening in a portion to be grasped by a driver. The film is liquid-impermeable and air-permeable, and covers the first opening. The contact detection electrodes are provided on the film. The alcohol sensor is provided in a space in communication with the opening. The control circuit is connected to the contact detection electrodes and the alcohol sensor, and measures the resistance between the contact detection electrodes. When the resistance is within a predetermined range, the control circuit determines that the driver is in contact with the film and detects an alcohol drinking condition of the driver based on the output from the alcohol sensor.
US07911339B2 Shoe wear-out sensor, body-bar sensing system, unitless activity assessment and associated methods
A shoe wear out sensor (100,210,310) includes at least one detector (104,312) for sensing a physical metric that changes as a sole of a shoe wears out, a processor (102) configured to process the physical metric over time to determine if the shoe is worn out, and an alarm (106) for informing a user of the shoe when the sole is worn out. A body bar sensing system (500) includes a housing (502) with at least one detector (506) for sensing a physical metric that indicates a repetition movement of the housing when attached to the body bar, a processor (504) for processing the physical metric over time to determine repetitions thereof, and a display (508,512) for informing a user of the repetitions. A system assesses activity and displays a unitless activity value. A detector senses activity of a user. A processor reads sensed activity data from the detector. A display displays the unitless activity value. An enclosure houses the detector and the processor. The processor periodically reads the sensed activity data from the detector and processes the data to generate an activity number, the number being used to generate the unitless activity value based upon a maximum number and a display range.
US07911334B2 Electronic personal alert system
A personal alert system for sending alerts or notifications in certain conditions. An alert is created by a user, primary contact, first responder or other third party, and an alert message is sent to designated contacts. An alert message can provide an update on a pending alert. Alerts can be configured to be triggered by preselected trigger conditions or can be sent in real time. Triggered alert can include a specific date and time or specific rules or alert conditions. Additional criteria can be applied, such as the constraint to check-in periodically during an alert period. If the user fails to meet an alert condition (e.g., check-in by a certain time), then the alert is triggered and an alert message is sent primary and secondary designated contacts. In another implementation, an emergency first responder can trigger the alert based on information on an emergency card stored in the user's wallet.
US07911332B2 Wheel having a controlled pressure and a pressure reservoir
A wheel having a controlled pressure includes a rim associated with a tank adapted to be filled with a fluid to a first pressure; a tire mounted on the rim and having an inner volume inflated to an operating pressure at a reference temperature, the operating pressure being lower than the first pressure; and at least one valve assembly adapted to establish a communication between the tank, the inner volume of the tire and the external environment. The valve assembly includes a command valve, an exhaust valve and a compensation valve operatively associated with each other. The command valve controls communication between the tank and the inner volume of the tire. The exhaust valve is connected to the external environment, to the inner volume, to the command valve and to the compensation valve. The compensation valve is connected to the exhaust valve and the command valve. The command valve includes an inner chamber connected with the exhaust valve and the compensation valve in such a manner that the command valve is operated by the exhaust valve and the compensation valve through a pressure variation of the inner chamber in response to a variation of the inner pressure of the tire.
US07911324B2 Method and system for obtaining information about RFID-equipped objects
Method and arrangement for obtaining information about a radio-frequency identification (RFID) device or an object on which the RFID device is mounted when the RFID device is in a space defined by a frame includes arranging a plurality of antennas on the frame to enable transmission of signals into the space and reception of signals from the space, controlling transmission of signals by the antennas by means of an interrogator, and directing radio frequency signals from at least one of the antennas into the space to cause a RFID device in the space to return a signal if it receives any signal from any of the antennas. The return signals from the RFID device are received, e.g., by the interrogator or an associated receiver, and information about the RFID device or object to which the RFID device is attached is derived based on the return signals.
US07911322B2 Information processing apparatus and method, and non-contact IC card device
An information processing method includes the steps of: detecting a magnetic field variation that occurs in the vicinity of a receiving section that receives a magnetic field signal; determining whether or not a detection result satisfies a predetermined condition that is set in advance; connecting a storage section, which stores information included in the magnetic field signal received by the receiving section, to the receiving section if it is determined that the detection result does not satisfy the condition; and connecting the storage section to a reading section that reads information stored on the storage section, if it is determined that the detection result satisfies the condition.
US07911304B2 Electromagnetic relay
An electromagnetic relay has a movable iron core, an insulation holder integrated with an upper end portion of the movable iron core, a movable contact piece supported by the insulation holder, and a solenoid formed from a wound coil. The movable iron core is housed in an axial hole in the solenoid movably in the upward and downward directions. The movable iron core is adapted to be moved upwardly and downwardly based on magnetization and demagnetization of the solenoid for contacting and separating a movable contact point provided on the movable contact piece with and from a fixed contact point for opening and closing a contact point. A permanent magnet is embedded in a base portion of the insulation holder.
US07911299B2 Microactuator, optical apparatus, and optical switch
A microactuator has a fixed portion and a movable portion that is provided in such a way as to be movable relative to the fixed portion between a first position at which it is in contact with a predetermined portion of the fixed portion and a second position away from the first position. The fixed portion has a first electrode portion, the movable portion has a second electrode portion that can produce an electrostatic force between it and the first electrode portion by a voltage between it and the first electrode portion, and the first and second electrode portions are arranged in such a way that a first force that biases the movable portion in a direction toward the first position according to the electrostatic force created when the voltage is constant reaches a peak when the movable portion is at a third position between the first position and the second position.
US07911294B2 Variable-frequency band-elimination filter
A series resonance circuit defined by a series circuit including an inductor and a capacitor and a series resonance circuit defined by a series circuit including an inductor and a capacitor are connected in shunt to a signal line. A diode is disposed between the grounding end of the series resonance circuit and the ground, and a diode is disposed between the grounding end of the series resonance circuit and the ground. The connection point between the grounding end of the series resonance circuit and the diode is connected to the ground via a frequency shifting inductor in a conductive state at high frequency, and the connection point between the grounding end of the series resonance circuit and the diode is connected to the ground via a frequency shifting inductor in a conductive state at high frequency. A matching circuit defined by a multistage T-shape LCL circuit is disposed between the series resonance circuits.
US07911284B2 Voltage controlled oscillator
A voltage controlled oscillator circuit comprises a variable current generator to supply an operation current to a voltage controlled oscillator, the voltage controlled oscillator to include a resonance circuit having a variable capacitor and inductor, and to output an output signal having an amplitude based on a current generated by the variable current generator, and a first optimization circuit to which the output signal is inputted, the first optimization circuit generating and outputting a current setting signal based on an amplitude change of the output signal corresponding to a change of a current outputted by the variable current generator to the variable current generator.
US07911276B1 Transconductor circuit
A low noise, highly linear transconductor circuit, which may be applied, e.g., in communication systems, includes a first input node for receiving a first input signal of the transconductor circuit and a second input node for receiving a second input signal of the transconductor circuit, and at least a first amplifier, a second amplifier, and a first, second and third resistor. Each of the first and second amplifiers includes an input stage with a combination of at least a transistor of the MOS type and a transistor of the bipolar type, and an output stage for providing a respective output signal of the transconductor circuit and having at least a transistor of the bipolar type. The circuit achieves reduced noise due to output current reuse in the input stage of the amplifiers and cross coupling of bias resistors to result in a highly linear transconductor circuit having very low noise.
US07911269B2 Ultra low noise high linearity LNA for multi-mode transceiver
An amplifier for operating at low, middle or high linearity modes, the amplifier comprising a first low noise amplifier (LNA) coupled to a second low noise amplifier for providing amplification; a first degeneration inductor coupled to the first LNA for providing impedance matching; a −g3 generation block coupled to an output of the second LNA for canceling third-order transconductance distortion; and a first enabling/disabling component coupled to the output of the second LNA and aligned in parallel with the −g3 generation block for operating at least one of the first and second LNAs at one of the low, middle or high linearity modes.
US07911268B2 Apparatus and method for improving the feedback linearity of a 1.5-bit sigma-delta class-D amplifier
A conversion circuit is provided for a 1.5-bit Σ-Δ class-D amplifier to improve the feedback linearity of the class-D amplifier, by periodically inverting and mixing a first positive feedback signal and a first negative feedback signal from the power stage of the class-D amplifier to generate a second positive feedback signal and a second negative feedback signal with better linearity for feedback control in the class-D amplifier.
US07911262B2 External compensation for input current source
An integrated circuit includes: a pre-driver stage, coupled to an external supply voltage, for controlling the final driver stage; a final driver stage, coupled to the pre-driver stage and the external supply voltage, for providing an output voltage; a compensation circuit, coupled to the pre-driver stage, for providing a bias voltage to the pre-driver stage that compensates for variation in the external supply voltage, to control current through the pre-driver stage; and a bias circuit, coupled to the external supply voltage and the compensation circuit, for providing a bias voltage as an input to the compensation circuit.
US07911248B2 Apparatus for linearization of digitally controlled oscillator
There is provided an apparatus for the linearization of a digitally controlled oscillator. The apparatus includes a first filter outputting only a low frequency band signal of an input signal to the digitally controlled oscillator; a negative feedback loop causing the signal of an input port of the digitally controlled oscillator to pass through a frequency table and a frequency-to-digital code mapper in sequence and correcting an input of the digitally controlled oscillator by performing negative feedback to an input port of the first filter; and a frequency table generator storing a frequency value of an output signal of the digitally controlled oscillator in the frequency table.
US07911246B2 DLL circuit and method of controlling the same
A DLL circuit includes a clock selection control unit configured to generate a clock selection signal on the basis of a phase difference between a reference clock and a feedback clock and, after the clock selection signal is generated, to generate an initialization signal. A delay control unit, when the initialization signal is enabled, transfers an initial voltage to be generated by dividing an external power supply voltage to a delay unit as a control voltage, and controls a delay operation of a delay reference clock to be selected on the basis of the clock selection signal.
US07911234B1 Nanotube logic circuits
A logic cell that is immune to misaligned carbon nanotubes. Carbon nanotubes are positioned on a substrate. Contacts are formed on a layer of carbon nanotubes, including a first input contact, a second input contact, an output contact, a first gate region, and a second gate region. The output contact is positioned between the first input contact and the second input contact, and a cell region is provided bounded by a width of the output contact and residing between the first input contact and the second input contact. A nonconductive region is positioned in the layer of carbon nanotubes between any two or more of the plurality of contacts that, if shorted, would inhibit a logic function.
US07911226B2 Power-up and power-down circuit for system-on-a-chip integrated circuit
A power-up and power-down circuit for an integrated circuit includes a voltage regulator set for a first voltage. A first I/O pad is coupled internally to an input to the voltage regulator and to first internal circuits. The second voltage is externally coupled to the first I/O pad. A second I/O pad is coupled internally to an output of the voltage regulator configured to drive the base of an external transistor. A third I/O pad of the integrated circuit is coupled internally to a reference-voltage input of the voltage regulator. A fourth I/O pad is coupled to a feedback input of the voltage regulator. A fifth I/O pad of the integrated circuit is coupled internally to logic circuitry that controls power-up and power down of the integrated circuit from internal signals including internal signals from a real-time clock circuit disposed on the integrated circuit.
US07911223B2 Calibration circuit of on-die termination device
A calibration circuit of an on-die termination device includes a code generating unit configured to receive a voltage of a calibration node connected to an external resistor and a reference voltage to generate pull-up calibration codes. The calibration circuit also includes a pull-up calibration resistor unit configured to pull up the calibration node in response to the pull-up calibration codes. The pull-up calibration resistor unit is calibrated such that its resistance becomes higher as a power supply voltage increases.
US07911222B2 Mix mode driver for traces of different lengths
A method for a mix mode driver to accommodate traces of different lengths includes storing in the mix mode driver a set of one or more control signals and coefficient signals for a trace length. The one or more control signals select a number of the stages to generate a variable amplitude data output signal. Each stage is operable to increase or decrease a data signal, and each of the coefficient signals determines the magnitude of increase or decrease of the data input signal by a stage. A method for operating the mix mode driver includes generating the variable amplitude data output signal with one or more of the stages, and providing the variable amplitude data output signal to a trace.
US07911220B2 Semiconductor integrated circuit apparatus, measurement result management system, and management server
An objective is to provide a semiconductor integrated circuit apparatus capable of analyzing factors that exert an influence upon an actual operation of a semiconductor integrated circuit that is actually working, and further of reducing its factors.A semiconductor integrated circuit that is an object of measurement, and a measurement circuit for measuring a physical amount, which exerts an influence upon the actual operation of the semiconductor integrated circuit, such as jitter or noise jitter, and noise of this semiconductor integrated circuit are configured on an identical chip.Also, a measurement result of the measurement circuit of the present invention is analyzed, and is fed back to a circuit for adjusting the semiconductor integrated circuit that is an object of measurement.
US07911210B2 Diagnosis device, diagnosis method, and lamp ballast circuit using the same
The present invention relates a diagnosis device for detecting an end of lamp life of a lamp, a diagnosis method, and a lamp ballast circuit using the same. The diagnosis device generates a reference lamp voltage by adding a predetermined reference voltage to a distributed voltage corresponding to a lamp voltage applied to a lamp and generates an integrated lamp voltage by integrating the reference lamp voltage. The diagnosis device compares the integrated lamp voltage with a normal range that an integrated lamp voltage has when the lamp is in a normal state.
US07911209B2 Head coil and neurovascular array for parallel imaging capable magnetic resonance systems
A head coil for use with a parallel-imaging compatible MR system is disclosed, as is a method of making, and a neurovascular array (NVA) equipped with, same. The head coil includes conductive rings and rods configured to produce a plurality of electrically-adjacent primary resonant substructures about a birdcage-like structure, with each such primary resonant substructure including two rods neighboring each other and the short segment of each of the first and second rings interconnecting them. The primary resonant substructures are isolated from each other via a preamplifier decoupling scheme and an offset tuning scheme thereby enabling each primary resonant substructure (i) to receive an MR signal from tissue within its field of view and (ii) to be operatively couplable to one processing channel of the MR system for conveyance of the MR signal received thereby (iii) while being simultaneously decoupled from the other primary resonant substructures.
US07911187B2 Energy storage system
An energy storage system includes a battery charger and energy storage devices. The battery charger is connected to a DC/AC current source. The energy storage devices are coupled between the battery charger and subsystems respectively. Each of the energy storage devices includes a magnetic capacitor (MCAP) and an over current protection device (OCPD). MCAPs are charged by the battery charger and supply the electric power to subsystems connected the energy storage devices. OCPDs detect current from MCAPs to subsystems and protect subsystems from excessive currents of voltages.
US07911182B2 Method and apparatus for detecting a battery voltage
One aspect of the invention involves: maintaining a record of how long a circuit operates in each of a plurality of different operating modes thereof, starting from a point in time at which a battery that powers the circuit is replaced; calculating for each of the operating modes as a function of the record a cumulative current drain from the point in time to a current time; and determining as a function of the cumulative current drains whether the battery is subject to a low voltage condition. Another aspect involves: monitoring a voltage of a battery; periodically determining whether the voltage of the battery is subject to a low voltage condition; and maintaining a count of the number of times that the determining results in a determination that the battery is subject to a low voltage condition.
US07911181B2 Auto-averaging RC time constant calibration
This disclosure relates to auto-averaging RC time constant calibration are described. An auto-averaging calibration circuit includes two capacitor branches, where capacitors in the capacitor branches, charge and discharge alternately to accommodate multiple charging cycles in one measurement cycle for measuring a RC time constant. A value of RC time constant is obtained in each charging cycle. A final value of the RC time constant can be determined by averaging various values of the time constants obtained during each charging cycle.
US07911176B2 Systems and methods involving permanent magnet electric machine rotor position determination
A method for determining rotor position comprising sending a signal to a stator, receiving a first signal indicative of a first estimated stator inductance, and receiving a second signal indicative of a second estimated stator inductance. The method further includes, calculating a first rotor position angle using a function including the first estimated stator inductance and the second estimated stator inductance.
US07911173B2 Open loop method for controlling power
A method of power control for an electrical motor using open-loop principles is disclosed. The method employs a desired control line function that determines hold-off time based on a detected phase lag of a motor drive signal. The motor to be controlled is driven with a motor drive signal at a given load for a first number of cycles to detect the phase lag of the motor drive signal. Controlling for phase lag for a second number of cycles is then accomplished by firing a thyristor according to the phase lag of the motor drive signal. Advantages include reduced power consumption of a motor controlled by an embodiment of the method or controller, and faster response time between the detection of load changes on the motor and the issuance of power control signals.
US07911170B2 Sensorless measurement of the rotation frequency of a rotor of an asynchronous machine
The present invention relates to a device (20) and a method for sensorless measuring a mechanical rotor frequency of a rotor (6) of an asynchronous machine (40), wherein the rotor (6) has a predetermined defect and the asynchronous machine (40) has a fixed number of pairs of poles. The asynchronous machine (40) comprises a current determination unit (2) for determining a stator current of the stator (7), wherein the stator current has a stator frequency. A processing unit (3) forms a stator current spectrum of the stator current. An analyzing unit (4) analyzes the stator current spectrum and determines an inverse peak (26) and a corresponding inverse frequency in the stator current spectrum, wherein the inverse peak (26) is the peak having the second highest amplitude in the stator current spectrum in the frequency range of the stator frequency. A calculation unit (5) calculates a mechanical rotor frequency of the rotor (6) from the sum of the stator frequency divided by the number of pairs of poles and the inverse frequency, if the slip of the asynchronous machine (40) is lower than 50%, or from the difference of the stator frequency divided by the number of pairs of poles and the inverse frequency, if the slip is higher than 50%.
US07911162B2 Motor drive device and control method
A motor drive device (100) includes a boost converter (12) boosting a power supply voltage and outputting a boosted voltage; an inverter (14) receiving the boosted voltage from the boost converter (12) and driving a motor (M1); and a controller (30) giving a target value of the boosted voltage to the boost converter (12) and setting one of a rectangular-wave control and a non-rectangular-wave control as a control method of the inverter (14). The controller (30) is capable of selecting from a first operation mode for giving a first boosted target value and designating the non-rectangular-wave control as the control method and a second operation mode for giving a second boosted target value lower than the first boosted target value and designating the rectangular-wave control as the control method, in response to a same predetermined input signal indicating a torque request.
US07911152B2 High frequency electronic ballast for high intensity discharge lamps and improved drive method therefor
A ballast for operating a high intensity discharge (HID) lamp includes a mechanism which provides electrical power to the HID lamp and a frequency-selecting mechanism which selects a frequency of the electrical power based on an atomic component present in the HID lamp. Preferably, the frequency is selected within a range between two hundred kilohertz and nine hundred kilohertz. Preferably, the frequency is near two hundred kilohertz and the operation enhances radiant efficiency at blue-green wavelengths due to excitation states of: scandium, indium, thallium and rare earth elements. Preferably, when the operation frequency is near seven hundred kilohertz, the operation enhances radiant efficiency at red wavelengths due to excitation states of atomic components selected from alkali metals. Preferably, the ballast includes a dimming mechanism for dimming the HID lamp thereby reducing said electrical power, and upon the dimming, the frequency-selecting mechanism selects the frequency for optimizing color parameters and luminous flux of the radiant emission.
US07911150B2 Method and apparatus for controlling a discharge lamp in a backlighted display
The described DC to AC inverter efficiently controls the amount of electrical power used to drive a cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL). The output is a fairly pure sine wave which is proportional to an input control voltage. The output waveform purity is ensured by driving a symmetrical rectangular waveform into a second-order, low pass filter at the resonant frequency of the filter for all conditions of line voltage and delivered power. Operating stress on the step-up transformer is minimized by placing the load (lamp) directly across the secondary side of the transformer. When configured to regulate delivered power, the secondary side may be fully floated which practically eliminates a thermometer effect on the operation of the lamp. All of the active elements, including the power switches, may be integrated into a monolithic silicon circuit.
US07911146B2 High-velocity, multistage, nozzled, ion driven wind generator and method of operation of the same adaptable to mesoscale realization
Gas flows of modest velocities are generated when an organized ion flux in an electric field initiates an ion-driven wind of neutral molecules. When a needle in ambient air is electrically charged to a potential sufficient to produce a corona discharge near its tip, such a gas flow can be utilized downstream of a ring-shaped or other permeable earthed electrode. In view of the potential practical applications of such devices, as they represent blowers with no moving parts, a methodology for increasing their flow velocities includes exploitation of the divergence of electric field lines, avoidance of regions of high curvature on the second electrode, control of atmospheric humidity, and the use of linear arrays of stages, terminating in a converging nozzle. The design becomes particularly advantageous when implemented in mesoscale domains.
US07911141B2 Plasma display panel having dielectric layer providing improved discharge efficiency
A plasma display panel that achieves improved discharge efficiency and reduced discharge voltage is provided. The plasma display panel includes a substrate, a sustain electrode located on the substrate, a first dielectric layer located on the substrate formed with the sustain electrode, and a second dielectric layer located on the first dielectric layer and having a larger dielectric constant than a dielectric constant of the first dielectric layer.
US07911139B2 Plasma display device with improved luminance
A plasma display device has a panel main body in which a pair of transparent substrates is arranged in opposition so as to form a discharge space between the substrates on at least a front side. Barrier ribs are arranged on at least one of the substrates to divide the discharge space into a plurality of spaces. A group of electrodes is arranged on the substrates so as to generate discharge in the discharge space divided with the barrier ribs. Phosphor layers that emit by discharge are also provided. The phosphor layers are equipped with a green phosphor layer including at least Zn2SiO4:Mn, a surface of Zn2SiO4:Mn is coated with aluminum oxide, and a ratio of an Al element to a Si element on the surface measured with an XPS apparatus is 0.6 to 4.0.
US07911138B2 Encapsulation cap and display device including the same
The present invention relates to an encapsulation cap for a display device having a structure which has a reinforced strength and is not modified although a thickness is decreased, and an encapsulation cap according to one embodiment of the present invention may comprises a first plane part; and a second plane part having at least one bead thereon, and disposed in a plane different from a plane of the first plane part, wherein the second plane part is connected with the first plane part.
US07911132B2 Organic light emitting diode having electron and hole mobility in light emitting layer and display using the same
An organic light emitting diode comprising a pair of electrodes and a stack including a hole transport layer, a light emitting layer, and an electron transport layer, the stack being intermediate between the electrodes, the light emitting layer being of a material having hole mobility and electron mobility equal to or lower than hole mobility of the hole transport layer and electron mobility of the electron transport layer, respectively.
US07911128B2 Organic electroluminescence display device having anode and drain sealing structure and a method for fabricating thereof
An organic electroluminescence display device and a fabrication method thereof is described. The organic electroluminescence display device includes first and second substrates. A cathode including a transparent conductive material and a thin metal film, an organic electroluminescence (EL) layer formed on the cathode, and an anode formed on the organic EL layer are formed on the first substrate. A driving transistor that contains a drain electrode is formed on the second substrate. The first and second substrates are bonded to each other such that the drain electrode contacts the anode.
US07911123B2 Electron emission device and electron emission display using the electron emission device
An electron emission device includes a substrate, cathode electrodes formed on the substrate, electron emission regions electrically coupled to the cathode electrodes, an insulation layer formed on the substrate while covering the cathode electrodes, and gate electrodes formed on the insulation layer and crossing the cathode electrodes. One or more gate holes are formed at each of crossing regions of the gate electrodes and the cathode electrodes through the insulation layer and the gate electrodes. At least one of the cathode electrodes includes at least two openings divided by a bridge. The at least two openings divided by the bridge are formed on each exposed region of the cathode electrodes through the gate holes. A corresponding one of the electron emission regions contacts the bridge and extends toward the walls of at least one of the openings but is spaced away from the cathode electrodes.
US07911121B2 Incandescent lamp having an illuminant that contains a high-temperature resistant metal compound
The invention relates to an incandescent lamp (1) which is provided with an illuminant (7) which is inserted in a bulb (2) together with a filling in a vacuum-tight manner, the illuminant (7) comprising a metal carbide that has a melting point above that of tungsten. The bulb also comprises a source and a sink for a material of which the illuminant is depleted during use.
US07911117B2 Piezoelectric/electrostrictive body, and piezoelectric/electrostrictive element
The piezoelectric/electrostrictive body is represented by a composition formula ABO3 (A includes at least one element selected from the group consisting of Li, Na and K, and B includes at least one element selected from the group consisting of Nb, Ta, Sb and Mn), and the body is formed so that a main phase is a tetragonal system, and the orientation degree of a (001) face after a polarization treatment is smaller than that of a (100) face, in a plane vertical to the applying direction of an electric field applied so as to perform the polarization treatment. The present inventive piezoelectric/electrostrictive body has a ratio between a diffraction peak intensity I001 of the (001) face and a diffraction peak intensity I100 of the (100) face of I001/I100≦1, in an X-ray diffraction pattern in the same plane after the polarization treatment.
US07911115B2 Monolithic electroactive polymers
The present invention relates to polymers, transducers and devices that convert between electrical and mechanical energy. When a voltage is applied to electrodes contacting an electroactive polymer, the polymer deflects. This deflection may be used to do mechanical work. Similarly, when the electroactive polymer deflects, an electric field is produced in the polymer. This electric field may be used to produce electrical energy. An active area is a portion of a polymer having sufficient electrostatic force to enable deflection of the portion and/or sufficient deflection to enable a change in electrostatic force. The present invention relates to transducers and devices including multiple active areas. The invention also relates to methods for actuating one or more active areas.
US07911106B2 Rotary electric machine
A rotary electric machine according to present invention comprises a rotor and a stator disposed around the rotor in which the stator includes a stator core having, along its inner periphery region, a plurality of axially extending stator slots and an armature winding wound through the stator slots. In this rotary electric machine, each stator slot contains four radially layered armature bars; each armature winding is formed by electrically connecting at least one of the armature bars in a first slot and at least one of the armature bars in a second slot to each other; and the armature bars of a pair specified in accordance with a required output voltage of the rotary electric machine are connected to each other with a connecting piece.
US07911104B2 Pole retention configuration for electric machine rotors
A retention system in which rotor pole pieces are retained within complementarily shaped channels in a rotor hub, permanent magnets are secured between the pole pieces and within clamp members, and wedge-shaped pieces are used to apply positive locking forces along the axial length of each clamp member and of adjacent pole pieces. A curable resin preferably in disposed within gaps between the permanent magnets and the clamp members.
US07911100B2 Dual-stage centering magnetic bearing
The present invention relates to a magnetic centering structure, and more particularly a structure of a centering magnetic bearing intended notably for space applications. The solution proposed in the present patent is suited to the centerers used on gyroscopic wheels and actuators. The main originality of the invention is the proposal of a dual-stage magnetic bearing structure. According to the implementation chosen, this invention presents the significant advantage of an improvement in terms of radial bulk.
US07911099B2 Outer rotor motor
An outer rotor motor has a bearing housing with reduced machining and material costs, can be assembled with high accuracy, and has favorable durability. A bearing is attached to an inner circumferential surface of a housing main body that has been formed in a cylindrical shape by plastic deformation caused by press molding a metal matrix. At least one protruding surface is formed by plastic deformation so as to protrude further outward than the housing main body, and the stator core is attached to the outer circumference-side of the at least one protruding surface.
US07911096B2 Electromagnetic oscillator with electrical and mechanical output
An oscillator typically includes several pivotable oscillating arms each having a drive magnet and a follower magnet thereon so that the drive magnet on one arm drives movement of the follower magnet on another arm to oscillatingly pivot the other arm. Typically, a first repelling magnet is mounted on each oscillating arm and two repelling magnets are positioned on opposite sides of the first repelling magnet to facilitate the pivotal oscillation of the oscillating arm. A rotatable flywheel with a drive magnet thereon may drive movement of the follower magnet on one of the arms to drive pivotal movement of that arm. An electric motor may be used to drive rotation of the flywheel. A generating magnet may be mounted on each oscillating arm and movable adjacent an electrically conductive coil for producing an electric current therein. The coil may be in electrical communication with the motor.
US07911095B2 Servo motor with large rotor inertia
A servo motor with large rotor inertia includes a casing, a stator, a rotor and an inertial disk. The casing includes a hollow chamber and axial stages at front side and rear side thereof. The stator is arranged in the chamber and includes a ring and a plurality of coils around the ring. A through hole is defined at the center of the ring. A rotation shaft of the rotor is fixed to the stage and a magnet body is capped to the rotation shaft, where the magnet body is arranged in the through hole. The inertial disk is fixed to the rotation shaft of the rotor. The rotational inertia of the rotor is increased by rotating the inertial disk when the rotor is rotated by magnetize the stator. Therefore, the inertial disks of various sizes can be fixed to the rotor for matching different load inertia.
US07911092B2 Spindle motor
Embodiments of a spindle motor are provided. A spindle motor can include a base in contact with a bearing housing, a bearing installed in the bearing housing, a rotational shaft rotatably supported by the bearing, a stator disposed around the bearing housing and having a coil, a rotor including a rotor yoke fixed on the rotational shaft and a magnet fixed on the rotor yoke, a turntable provided above the rotor yoke and rotating together with the rotational shaft, and a plurality of balls provided in a space defined by the rotor yoke and the turntable.
US07911091B2 Cooling structure and cooling method of rotating electrical machine
A cooling structure of a rotating electrical machine including a stator and a rotor, the cooling structure including magnet accommodating holes provided in a rotor core of the rotor, the magnet accommodating holes extend between axial core end faces of the rotor core, wherein permanent magnets are accommodated in the magnet accommodating holes; a plurality of voids, which prevent leakage flux, in contact with the permanent magnets and extending between the axial core end faces; and a rotor cooling-liquid supply passage that supplies cooling liquid to one core end face, wherein the cooling liquid supplied from the rotor cooling-liquid supply passage is introduced into the voids to prevent leakage flux, and the permanent magnets are cooled by the cooling liquid flowing through the voids.
US07911090B2 Stator of an electrical machine, electrical machine, and power tool
A stator of an electrical machine has a cross section, a longitudinal extension, a jacket surface, a plurality of winding holders configured for receiving field windings, the winding holders being distributed inhomogenously around an inner circumference of the cross section, such that a density of the field windings in at least one first region formed around a stator circumference is smaller than in an adjacent second region.
US07911089B2 Fan motor for refrigerator
The present invention relates to a fan motor is for forced circulation of cool air in the refrigerator and comprises a molding unit, a shaft bearing unit, a rotor and an end cap. The molding unit comprises a stator having a shaft bearing unit mounting hole in the center thereof and core teeth which protrude radially outward so that a coil is wound thereon; and a circuit board having a circuit and a device which are electrically connected to the coil of the stator. The shaft bearing unit is inserted and fixed in the shaft bearing unit mounting hole. The rotor has a magnetic ring formed on the inner surface of a cup-shaped rotor housing, and a rotating shaft is fixed at the bottom center of the rotor housing. The end cap whose edge is connected to a side wall of the molding unit covering the rotor.
US07911079B2 Electrical system architecture having high voltage bus
An electrical system architecture is disclosed. The architecture has a power source configured to generate a first power, and a first bus configured to receive the first power from the power source. The architecture also has a converter configured to receive the first power from the first bus and convert the first power to a second power, wherein a voltage of the second power is greater than a voltage of the first power, and a second bus configured to receive the second power from the converter. The architecture further has a power storage device configured to receive the second power from the second bus and deliver the second power to the second bus, a propulsion motor configured to receive the second power from the second bus, and an accessory motor configured to receive the second power from the second bus.
US07911078B2 Dual type vehicle power-supply apparatus
The dual type vehicle power-supply apparatus includes a bidirectional power transmission unit capable of performing bidirectional electric power transmission between a high voltage source of a high power-supply voltage supply system and a low voltage source of a low power-supply voltage supply system, and a power transmission controller controlling the bidirectional power transmission unit to perform the bidirectional electric power transmission. The power transmission controller has a function of detecting a surplus amount of electric power in the low power-supply voltage supply system, a function of detecting a shortage amount of electric power in the high power-supply voltage supply system, and a function of commanding the bidirectional power transmission unit to transmit electric power from the low voltage source to the high voltage source by an mount equal to the detected shortage amount when the detected surplus amount is larger than the detected shortage amount.
US07911066B2 Through-chip via interconnects for stacked integrated circuit structures
A stacked IC structure has an integrated circuit (IC) having a front IC side, a back IC side, and a first conductive feature formed on the front IC side. A through-chip via connects to the first conductive feature on the front IC side. A substrate has an external circuit formed on a front surface. The IC attaches to the front surface of the substrate and the through-chip via forms a connection between the first conductive feature and the external circuit.
US07911051B2 Electronic circuit arrangement and method for producing an electronic circuit arrangement
An electronic circuit arrangement includes a heat sink and a first circuit carrier which is thermally coupled to the heat sink, lies flat on the latter and is intended to wire electronic components of the circuit arrangement. Provided for at least one electronic component is a special arrangement which is associated with a considerably increased heat dissipation capability for the relevant component and, in addition, also affords further advantages in connection with changes in the population and/or line routing which might occur in practice. The important factor for this is that the component is arranged under a second circuit carrier which is held in a recess in the first circuit carrier. The recess passes through to the top side of the heat sink.
US07911049B2 Electrically optimized and structurally protected via structure for high speed signals
An electrically optimized and structurally protected micro via structure for high speed signals in multilayer interconnection substrates is provided. The via structure eliminates the overlap of a contact with the reference planes to thereby reduce the via capacitance and thus, the via impedance mismatch in the via structure. As a result, the via structure is electrically optimized. The via structure further comprises one or more floating support members placed in close proximity to the via within a via clearance area between the via and the reference planes. The floating support members are “floating” in the sense that they are not in electrical contact with either the via or the reference planes. Thus, they are not provided for purposes of signal propagation but only for structural support. The floating support members may be connected to one another by way of one or more microvia structures.
US07911046B2 Integrated circuit packaging system with interposer
An integrated circuit packaging system is provided including forming an interposer having a coupling slot, securing an upper die on the interposer, mounting the interposer over an integrated circuit, and coupling the integrated circuit to the upper die through the coupling slot.
US07911037B1 Method and structure for creating embedded metal features
A method and structure for creating embedded metal features includes embedded trace substrates wherein bias and signal traces are embedded in a first surface of the embedded trace substrate and extend into the body of the embedded trace substrate. The bias trace and signal trace trenches are formed into the substrate body using LASER ablation, or other ablation, techniques. Using ablation techniques to form the bias and signal trace trenches allows for extremely accurate control of the depth, width, shape, and horizontal displacement of the bias and signal trace trenches. As a result, the distance between the bias traces and the signal traces eventually formed in the trenches, and therefore the electrical properties, such as impedance and noise shielding, provided by the bias traces, can be very accurately controlled.
US07911028B2 Semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the same
A semiconductor device including a metallic compound Hfx1Moy1Nz1 as an electrode. The work function of the electrode can be modulated by doping the metallic compound with dopants including nitrogen, silicon or germanium. The metallic compound of the present invention is applicable to PMOS, NMOS, CMOS transistors and capacitors.
US07911027B2 Semiconductor device, method of generating pattern for semiconductor device, method of manufacturing semiconductor device, and apparatus for generating pattern for semiconductor device
It is an object of the invention to effectively absorb a power noise and to implement the stable operation of a circuit.The invention provides a semiconductor device comprising a bypass capacitor including an MOS structure having a gate electrode formed to be extended from a power wiring region to a portion provided under an empty region which is adjacent to the power wiring region and has no other functional layer, and formed through a capacitive insulating film on a diffusion region having one conductivity type, and a substrate contact formed under a ground wiring region and fixing a substrate potential, wherein the bypass capacitor has a contact to come in contact with the power wiring which is formed on a surface of the gate electrode and has the diffusion region having the one conductivity type and a diffusion region of the substrate contact connected to each other.
US07911026B2 Chip carrier with reduced interference signal sensitivity
Carrier including: a substrate having a first interface with first contact holes, and a second interface, which lies opposite the first interface, with second contact holes. The substrate includes a substrate body and electrically conductive contact channels formed therein, wherein each of the contact channels electrically conductively connects a first contact hole to a second contact hole. The carrier also includes a front-side wiring layer arranged on the first interface and; has a first front-side metallization layer formed therein such that it includes a first capacitor electrode for electrically connecting microelectronic devices and/or circuits to a first pole of a signal or supply voltage. The first capacitor electrode, at least partly via a capacitor dielectric formed in the carrier, couples capacitively to electrically conductive regions of a second front-side metallization layer and/or the substrate which at least partly form a second capacitor electrode for electrically connecting the microelectronic devices and/or circuits to a second pole of the signal or supply voltage.
US07911022B2 Isolation structure in field device
A semiconductor device. The semiconductor device comprises an isolation structure and two heavily doped regions of a second conductivity type spaced apart from each other by the isolation structure. The isolation structure comprises an isolation region in a semiconductor substrate and a heavily doped region of the first conductivity type. The isolation region has an opening and the heavily doped region of the first conductivity type is substantially surrounded by the opening of the isolation region.
US07911011B2 Methods of fabricating electromechanical non-volatile memory devices
Electromechanical non-volatile memory devices are provided including a semiconductor substrate having an upper surface including insulation characteristics. A first electrode pattern is provided on the semiconductor substrate. The first electrode pattern exposes portions of a surface of the semiconductor substrate therethrough. A conformal bit line is provided on the first electrode pattern and the exposed surface of semiconductor substrate. The bit line is spaced apart from a sidewall of the first electrode pattern and includes a conductive material having an elasticity generated by a voltage difference. An insulating layer pattern is provided on an upper surface of the bit line located on the semiconductor substrate. A second electrode pattern is spaced apart from the bit line and provided on the insulating layer pattern. The second electrode pattern faces the first electrode pattern. Related methods are also provided.
US07911006B2 Structure and fabrication method for capacitors integratible with vertical replacement gate transistors
A process and an architecture related to a vertical MOSFET device and a capacitor for use in integrated circuits. Generally, the integrated circuit structure includes a semiconductor layer with a major surface formed along a plane thereof and further including a first doped region formed in the surface. A second doped region of a different conductivity type than the first doped region is positioned over the first region. A third doped region of a different conductivity type than the second region is positioned over the second region. In one embodiment of the invention, a semiconductor device includes a first layer of semiconductor material and a first field-effect transistor having a first source/drain region formed in the first layer. A channel region of the transistor is formed over the first layer and an associated second source/drain region is formed over the channel region. The integrated circuit further includes a capacitor having a bottom plate, dielectric layer and a top capacitor plate. In an associated method of manufacture, a first device region, selected from the group consisting of the source region and a drain region of a field-effect transistor is formed on a semiconductor layer. A first field-effect transistor gate region is formed over the first device region. A capacitor comprising top and bottom layers with a dielectric layer disposed therebetween, is also formed on the semiconductor layer. In another embodiment, the capacitor layers are formed within a trench or window formed in the semiconductor layer.
US07911005B2 Dram having deeper source drain region than that of an logic region
A semiconductor device having a DRAM region and a logic region embedded together therein, including a first transistor formed in a DRAM region, and having a first source/drain region containing arsenic and phosphorus as impurities; and a second transistor formed in a logic region, and having a second source/drain region containing at least arsenic as an impurity, wherein each of the first source/drain region and the second source/drain region has a silicide layer respectively formed in the surficial portion thereof, and the first source/drain region has a junction depth which is determined by phosphorus and is deeper than the junction depth of the second source/drain region.
US07911001B2 Methods for forming self-aligned dual stress liners for CMOS semiconductor devices
CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) fabrication techniques are provided to form DSL (dual stress liner) semiconductor devices having non-overlapping, self-aligned, dual stress liner structures.
US07910994B2 System and method for source/drain contact processing
System and method for reducing contact resistance and prevent variations due to misalignment of contacts is disclosed. A preferred embodiment comprises a non-planar transistor with source/drain regions located within a fin. An inter-layer dielectric overlies the non-planar transistor, and contacts are formed to the source/drain region through the inter-layer dielectric. The contacts preferably come into contact with multiple surfaces of the fin so as to increase the contact area between the contacts and the fin.
US07910989B2 Semiconductor device with increased channel area and decreased leakage current
The semiconductor device includes an active region, a recess channel region including vertical channel structures, a gate insulating film, and a gate structure. The active region is defined by a device isolation structure formed in a semiconductor substrate. The recess channel region is formed in the active region. The vertical silicon-on-insulator (SOI) channel structures are disposed at sidewalls of both device isolation structures in a longitudinal direction of a gate region. The gate insulating film is disposed over the active region including the recess channel region. The gate structure is disposed over the recess channel region of the gate region.
US07910986B2 Semiconductor memory device and data processing system
A semiconductor memory device includes a silicon pillar, a gate electrode covering a side surface of the silicon pillar via a gate insulation film, diffusion layers (11, 12) provided in a lower part and an upper part, respectively of the silicon pillar, a bit line connected to the diffusion layer (11), and a memory element connected to the diffusion layer (12). The bit line includes a silicon material region in contact with the diffusion layer (11), and a low-resistance region including a material having lower electric resistance than that of the silicon material region. As a result, the resistance of the bit line embedded in the substrate can be decreased.
US07910981B2 Semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the same
A semiconductor device having a non-volatile memory and a method of manufacturing the same are provided. The semiconductor device includes a base material and a stack structure. The stack structure disposed on the base material at least includes a tunneling layer, a trapping layer and a dielectric layer. The trapping layer is disposed on the tunneling layer. The dielectric layer has a dielectric constant and is disposed on the trapping layer. The dielectric layer is transformed from a first solid state to a second solid state when the dielectric layer undergoes a process.
US07910980B2 Sonos device with insulating storage layer and P-N junction isolation
The present invention provides a semiconductor device and a method for manufacturing thereof. The semiconductor device includes bit lines disposed in a semiconductor substrate, a first ONO disposed between the bit lines on the semiconductor substrate, and a second ONO film disposed on each of the bit lines. The film thickness of a first silicon nitride film in the first ONO film is larger than the film thickness of a second silicon nitride film in the second ONO film.
US07910971B2 Methods of forming vertical field effect transistors, vertical field effect transistors, and dram cells
A method of forming a vertical field effect transistor includes etching an opening into semiconductor material. Sidewalls and radially outermost portions of the opening base are lined with masking material. A semiconductive material pillar is epitaxially grown to within the opening adjacent the masking material from the semiconductor material at the opening base. At least some of the masking material is removed from the opening. A gate dielectric is formed radially about the pillar. Conductive gate material is formed radially about the gate dielectric. An upper portion of the pillar is formed to comprise one source/drain region of the vertical transistor. Semiconductive material of the pillar received below the upper portion is formed to comprise a channel region of the vertical transistor. Semiconductor material adjacent the opening is formed to comprise another source/drain region of the vertical transistor. Other aspects and implementations are contemplated.
US07910959B2 Semiconductor device and associated layouts having transistors formed from six linear conductive segments with gate electrode connection through single interconnect level
A cell layout of a semiconductor device includes a diffusion level layout including a plurality of diffusion region layout shapes. The cell layout also includes a gate electrode level layout defined to include linear-shaped layout features placed to extend in only a first parallel direction. Adjacent linear-shaped layout features that share a common line of extent in the first parallel direction are separated from each other by an end-to-end spacing that is substantially equal across the gate electrode level layout and that is minimized to an extent allowed by a semiconductor device manufacturing capability. The gate electrode level layout includes linear-shaped layout features defined along at least four different lines of extent in the first parallel direction. The cell layout also includes a number of interconnect level layouts each defined to pattern conductive features within corresponding interconnect levels above the gate electrode level of the cell.
US07910943B2 Light emitting diode fixture and heat sink
A housing for a plurality of light emitting diodes includes a housing providing a heat sink, where the heat sink includes a plurality of protrusions. A control board can be removably coupled to the heat sink and the control board can provide an aperture to receive a lens housing and an aperture to receive a coupling member to secure the control board to the heat sink. Further, a plurality of light emitting diode light engines can be mounted to the control board where the individual heat sink protrusions of the plurality of heat sink protrusions align with individual light engines of the plurality of light engines.
US07910931B2 Thin film transistor substrate having a contact hole that does not expose a step portion
A thin film transistor substrate including a thin film transistor having a drain electrode with an electrode portion, which overlaps with a semiconductor layer, and an extended portion, which extends from the electrode portion and has a portion overlapping with a storage electrode or storage electrode line. A passivation layer is arranged on the drain electrode, and it has a contact hole that partially exposes the extended portion of the drain electrode without exposing a step in the extended portion caused by the storage electrode or storage electrode line. A pixel electrode is arranged on the passivation layer and is electrically connected with the extended portion of the drain electrode through the contact hole.
US07910925B2 Array substrate and method of manufacturing the same
The present invention provides an array substrate and a method for manufacturing the same. The array substrate comprises a substrate and a plurality of gate lines parallel to each other and a plurality of data lines parallel to each other formed on the substrate, the gate lines intersecting the data lines to define a plurality of pixel region arranged in a matrix, each pixel region comprising a thin film transistor, a pixel electrode and a thin film diode. With respect to each pixel region in a row, the pixel electrode is connected with the gate line in the present row through the thin film transistor and is connected with the gate line in a previous row through the thin film diode.
US07910923B2 Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device with superior long-term reliability is disclosed that alleviates current concentration into a switch structure arranged at an outermost portion. The semiconductor device comprises hetero semiconductor regions formed of polycrystalline silicon having a band gap width different from that of a drift region and hetero-adjoined with the drift region, a gate insulation film, a gate electrode adjoined to the gate insulation film, a source electrode connected to a source contact portion of the hetero semiconductor regions and an outermost switch structure and a repeating portion switch structure with a drain electrode connected to a substrate region. In a conduction state, the outermost switch structure comprises a mechanism in which the current flowing at the outermost switch structure becomes smaller than the current flowing at the repeating portion switch structure.
US07910922B2 Semiconductor integrated circuit device and manufacture thereof
In a semiconductor integrated circuit device, testing pads (209b) using a conductive layer, such as relocation wiring layers (205) are provided just above or in the neighborhood of terminals like bonding pads (202b) used only for probe inspection at which bump electrodes (208) are not provided. Similar testing pads may be provided even with respect to terminals like bonding pads provided with bump electrodes. A probe test is executed by using these testing pads or under the combined use of under bump metallurgies antecedent to the formation of the bump electrodes together with the testing pads. According to the above, bump electrodes for pads dedicated for probe testing may not be added owing to the use of the testing pads. Further, the use of testing pads provided in the neighborhood of the terminals like the bonding pads and smaller in size than the under bump metallurgies enables a probe test to be executed after a relocation wiring process.
US07910920B2 Thin film transistor and method of forming the same
A thin film transistor (TFT) may include a channel layer, a source electrode, a drain electrode, a protective layer, a gate electrode, and/or a gate insulating layer. The channel layer may include an oxide semiconductor material. The source electrode and the drain electrode may face each other on the channel layer. The protective layer may be under the source electrode and the drain electrode and/or may cover the channel layer. The gate electrode may be configured to apply an electric field to the channel layer. The gate insulating layer may be interposed between the gate electrode and the channel layer.
US07910905B2 Self-aligned, planar phase change memory elements and devices
Phase change memory elements, devices and systems using the same and methods of forming the same are disclosed. A memory element includes first and second electrodes, and a phase change material layer between the first and second electrodes. The phase change material layer has a first portion with a width less than a width of a second portion of the phase change material layer. The first electrode, second electrode and phase change material layer may be oriented at least partially along a same horizontal plane.
US07910903B2 Optical sensor with a counter for counting items and controlling a light source
An optical sensor comprises: a light source located on one side of a transport path; a variable current drive, an optical receiver in communication with the variable current drive, and located on an opposite side of the transport path to the light source and aligned therewith to detect light output therefrom; and a memory coupled to the variable current drive. The variable current drive is suitable for energising the light source so that the light intensity from the light source increases with increasing current. The variable current drive includes (i) a drive circuit for applying a pulse of current to the light source, during which pulse the light source is energised; and (ii) a counter for increasing the amount of current applied by the drive circuit during a pulse of current. The memory may be arranged to store a value from the counter indicative of a number of media items present in the transport path.
US07910893B2 B10 neutron detector in pie shaped sectors
A neutron detector array that includes a hollow member circumscribing an axis and bounding a volume. A divider extends parallel to the axis within the hollow member to divide the volume into a plurality of volume portions. A plurality of anodes extend parallel to the axis; at least one anode within each volume portion. A plurality of cathodes wherein the hollow member has an interior surface and the divider has surfaces that are coated with neutron sensitive material. Also, a neutron detector that includes a hollow cathode bounding a volume portion with at least a partial wedge cross-section, and an anode extending thought the volume portion. An electric field exists during operation of the neutron detector within the volume portion, the electric field varying across the cross-section, and the anode being located at an area of maximum field strength within the field. The detector may be used in the array.
US07910887B2 Electron-beam device and detector system
An electron-beam device having a beam generator for generating an electron beam, an objective lens for focusing the electron beam on an object, and at least one detector for detecting electrons scattered on the object or emitted by the object. Furthermore, a detector system for detecting electrons is described. With an electron-beam device having a detector system according to the present invention, it is possible to make a selection in a simple manner, in particular according to backscattered and secondary electrons. At the same time, as many electrons as possible may be detected using the detector system. For this purpose, the electron-beam device exhibits at least one adjustable diaphragm which is allocated to the detector. The detector system exhibits a detector on which a reflector for reflecting electrons onto the detector is accommodated.
US07910873B2 Biochip microsystem for bioinformatics recognition and analysis
A system with applications in pattern recognition, or classification, of DNA assay samples. Because DNA reference and sample material in wells of an assay may be caused to fluoresce depending upon dye added to the material, the resulting light may be imaged onto an embodiment comprising an array of photodetectors and an adaptive neural network, with applications to DNA analysis. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US07910867B1 Architecture for a launch controller
A scalable and distributable software architecture for use in conjunction with various different weapons control system and launch systems is disclosed. The architecture discards the proprietary and non-open protocols and services that characterize in favor of open source adaptive and middleware components. In the illustrative embodiment of the invention, the inventive architecture is implemented as a Launch Control Module that separates different layers of responsibility within a launch controller (e.g., LCU) and exposes its variation points.
US07910861B2 Cooking device
A cooking device including a cooking cavity, a fan located in the cooking device, the fan being configured to force air into the cooking cavity, and at least one optical heater to supply optical wave energy to heat the forced air provided by the fan.
US07910855B2 No gap laser welding of coated steel
Welding using a laser, which leaves keyhole portions at each pass, that allow gases to vent. That keyhole portion is an area within the interior portion, e.g., an inside of a spiral or a circular arc. The keyhole is not processed by the laser and gases can escape. The laser later circles back to process the area.
US07910851B2 Padstacks capable of receiving domes of dome keypads in a plurality of locations and printed circuit boards utilizing the padstacks
Disclosed is a printed circuit board configured for a dome-utilizing keypad configuration including at least one padstack having a plurality of dome switch targets and a plurality of target rings capable of accommodating different key dome locations of a dome keypad. Also disclosed is a padstack capable of accommodating different key dome locations. The disclosed padstack has a single dome switch targets input/output line for the plurality of dome switch targets of the padstack. The padstack also includes a single target rings input/output line for the plurality of target rings of the pad stack. In this way the disclosed printed circuit board includes a single circuit arrangement available for a plurality of different key pad designs.
US07910848B2 Easy-to-clean keypad device
Keypad devices have become commonplace in everyday life. They are part of our everyday life, in the form of pocket calculators, telephones, remote control devices, and cellular phones. Cleaning these keypad devices is problematic, since they have a large number of actuatable keys, due to the functions to be performed. As a mechanical interface in the keypad device, each key is a critical weak point in terms of maintaining a tight seal. An easy-to-clean keypad device, in particular an emergency call device, has a main body, an electronic assembly—which includes circuit elements and is installed in main body—a closing shell and keys, which are installed in closing shell and are designed to mechanically actuate the circuit elements. Closing shell with installed keys is a first preinstalled assembly, and main body with installed electronic assembly is a second preinstalled assembly. The first and second preinstalled assemblies are interconnected such that they may be separated.
US07910842B2 EL light emitting touch switch
A touch switch is composed of an EL light emitting layer configured by stacking a fluorescent layer and an insulation layer between first electrodes and a second electrode, a judgment unit for making a judgment on touch manipulation with the first electrode by an operator and an EL driving unit for driving the EL light emitting layer for light emitting, with each of a plurality of first electrodes, each of plurality of fluorescent layers and each of plurality of insulation layers being provided as a set and the second electrode being provided as a single electrode with respect to the plurality of first electrodes, wherein the judgment unit makes a judgment on which of the plurality of first electrodes has been touched by an operator on the basis of a high-frequency component inputted from the second electrode through the first electrode each time the touch switch is touched by an operator.
US07910837B2 Circuit board, electronic device and method for manufacturing the same
A circuit board includes a substrate, a circuit pattern and a through electrode. The circuit pattern is disposed on one side of the substrate in a thickness direction thereof. The through electrode is filled in a through-hole formed in the substrate with one end connected to the circuit pattern. The circuit pattern and the through electrode each have an area containing a noble metal component (e.g., Au component) and are connected to each other therethrough.
US07910821B2 Photoelectrode of dye-sensitized solar cell containing glass powder
A dye-sensitized solar cell containing glass powder and a method of manufacturing the same. The dye-sensitized solar cell is composed of a counter electrode obtained by forming a conductive light-transmitting layer on a light-transmitting material and then depositing a platinum catalyst layer on the conductive light-transmitting layer, a photoelectrode obtained by forming a conductive light-transmitting layer on a light-transmitting material, applying a mixture of transition metal oxide and glass powder on the conductive light-transmitting layer and then adsorbing a dye in the mixture, and an electrolyte solution between the counter electrode and the photoelectrode, the mixture layer of the photoelectrode containing 0.01˜20 wt % of glass powder based on the total weight of the mixture. The glass powder mixed in the preparation of the photoelectrode can improve dispersion properties of light and can enhance use efficiency of light, thereby increasing the energy conversion efficiency of the dye-sensitized solar cell.
US07910813B2 Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH918158
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH918158. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH918158, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH918158 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH918158.
US07910797B2 Absorbent articles having a sensation aspect
An absorbent article includes a backsheet having a longitudinal axis, a topsheet attached to the backsheet and having a body-facing surface, and an absorbent core disposed between the backsheet and the topsheet. The article may also include barrier leg cuffs. The article further includes a sensation aspect, which sensation aspect may be provided between the core and the topsheet. The sensation aspect may be, for example, a temperature sensation aspect. A visible indicator may be associated with the sensation aspect.
US07910787B2 Method and system for methanol production
An apparatus and method of producing methanol includes reacting a heated hydrocarbon-containing gas and an oxygen-containing gas in a reactor; to provide a product stream comprising methanol; and transferring heat from the product stream to the hydrocarbon-containing gas to heat the hydrocarbon containing gas. After removing methanol and CO2 from the product stream, unprocessed hydrocarbons are mixed with the hydrocarbon containing gas for reprocessing through the reactor. Reactor byproducts are injected into the ground to increase the output of a hydrocarbon producing well.
US07910772B2 Mixed metal oxide catalysts and processes for their preparation and use
A catalyst for the oxidation of an alkane, alkene or mixtures thereof. The catalyst includes a mixed-metal oxide having the formula MoaVbNbcTedSbeOf wherein, when a=1, b=0.01 to 1.0, c=0.01 to 1.0, d=0.01 to 1.0, e=0.01 to 1.0, and f is dependent upon the oxidation state of the other elements, the catalyst further characterized by having at least two crystal phases, the first crystal phase being an orthorhombic M1 phase and the second crystal phase being a pseudo-hexagonal M2 phase, the orthorhombic M1 phase present in an amount between greater than 60 weight percent to less than 90 weight percent. The catalysts disclosed herein exhibit a chemisorption of NH3 of less than about 0.2 mmole per gram of metal oxide.
US07910767B2 Prostaglandin derivatives
Prostaglandin nitroderivatives having improved pharmacological activity and enhanced tolerability are described. They can be employed for the treatment of glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
US07910765B2 Composition and method for low temperature deposition of silicon-containing films such as films including silicon, silicon nitride, silicon dioxide and/or silicon-oxynitride
Silicon precursors for forming silicon-containing films in the manufacture of semiconductor devices, such as low dielectric constant (k) thin films, high k gate silicates, low temperature silicon epitaxial films, and films containing silicon nitride (Si3N4), siliconoxynitride (SiOxNy) and/or silicon dioxide (SiO2). The precursors of the invention are amenable to use in low temperature (e.g., <500° C.) chemical vapor deposition processes, for fabrication of ULSI devices and device structures.
US07910764B2 Polymethylaluminoxane preparation, method of producing the same, polymerization catalyst, and polymerization method of olefins
A polymethylaluminoxane preparation exhibiting excellent storage stability with a high yield is provided. A polymethylaluminoxane preparation is formed by thermal decomposition of an alkylaluminum compound having an aluminum-oxygen-carbon bond, the alkylaluminum compound being formed by a reaction between trimethylaluminum and an oxygen-containing organic compound. In this preparation, (i) the oxygen-containing organic compound reacting with trimethylaluminum is an aliphatic or aromatic carboxylic acid represented by the general formula (I), R1—(COOH)n  (I), wherein R1 represents a hydrocarbon group of C1-C20 straight or branched alkyl groups, alkenyl groups or aryl groups, and n represents an integer of 1 to 5; (ii) a mole fraction of methyl groups originating from trimethylaluminum, relative to the total moles of methyl groups existing in the generated polymethylaluminoxane preparation is not more than 26 mol %; and (iii) the generated polymethylaluminoxane preparation has a viscosity of not more than 2.1×10−3 Pa·sec at 40° C.
US07910763B2 Process for preparing a monocyclopentadienyl compound
Catalyst compositions comprising a first metallocene compound, a second metallocene compound, an activator-support, and an organoaluminum compound are provided. An improved method for preparing cyclopentadienyl complexes used to produce polyolefins is also provided.
US07910753B2 Cyanine dyes and their applications as luminescence quenching compounds
The quenching compounds of the invention are weakly luminescent cyanines that are substituted by one or more heteroaromatic quenching moieties. The quenching compounds of the invention exhibit little or no observable luminescence and efficiently quench a broad spectrum of luminescent compounds. The chemically reactive quenching compounds possess utility for labeling a wide variety of substances, including biomolecules. These labeled substances are highly useful for a variety of energy-transfer assays and applications.
US07910745B2 Organic compound and method for producing radioactive halogen-labeled organic compound using the same
It is intended to provide a labeling precursor compound used for selectively producing radioactive halogen-substituted syn-1-amino-3-cyclobutane-carboxylic acids, and to provide a process for producing a radioactive halogen-substituted syn-1-amino-3-cyclobutane-carboxylic acid using the labeling precursor compound. A labeling precursor is used in which a phthalimide group is used as a protective group for protecting the amino group. The syn-form of the radioactive halogen-substituted 1-amino-3-cyclobutane-carboxylic acid can be selectively produced by labeling the labeling precursor with a radioactive halogen followed by deprotecting.
US07910743B2 Compounds, compositions and methods
Certain substituted urea derivatives selectively modulate the cardiac sarcomere, for example by potentiating cardiac myosin, and are useful in the treatment of systolic heart failure including congestive heart failure.
US07910742B2 Survivin inhibitors
Compounds that inhibit survivin, compositions containing the compounds and methods of treating diseases in which survivin is unregulated or overexpressed are disclosed.
US07910733B2 Image-forming material
The image-forming material includes a perimidine-based squarylium dye represented by the following formula (I):
US07910727B2 Process for the preparation of sucralose
A process for preparing sucrose-6-ester is provided, which comprises electrolyzing an electrolyte solution containing sucrose, an acylating reagent and a halide catalyst. Also disclosed is a process for preparing sucralose, which involves the preparation and chlorination of sucrose-6-ester followed by deacylation of the molecule. The process of the invention can be more readily performed with a higher yield than those in the art.
US07910721B2 Nucleic acid-enzyme complex
The present invention provides a method for controlling cleavage of a target RNA by deoxyribozyme.The present inventors designed a nucleic acid-enzyme complex using GGA 12-mer (Reference 3), which was found in the laboratory of the inventors to have greatly changeable structure in the presence or absence of monovalent metal ion as well as previously known nucleic acid-enzyme. The present invention is a deoxyribozyme complex comprising deoxyribozyme having a nucleotide sequence of target RNA, a substrate binding domain and a catalytic domain of RNA cleavage reaction, and a sequence (5′GGAGGAGGAGGA3′(SEQ ID NO: 21)), wherein the sequence is inserted to the catalytic domain of RNA cleavage reaction.
US07910720B2 Polyanion for improved nucleic acid amplification
The present invention is directed to a novel chemical compound comprising the structure [Xx-(CH2)m-phosphate-Yy]n, characterized in that 3≦m≦6, 30≦n≦60, each x and y is independently from each other 0 or 1, each X and Y is independently from each other any photometrically measurable entity; provided that the terminal X can also be an —OH group or a phosphate group, and further provided that the terminal Y can also be an —OH group. Such a compound can be used as a suitable hot start additive for PCR based amplification of nucleic acids.
US07910716B2 Nucleic acids encoding modified South African HIV-1 subtype C gag proteins
Embodiments of the invention provide processes for the selection of HIV-1 subtype (clade) C isolates, selected HIV-1 subtype C isolates, their genes and modifications and derivatives thereof for use in prophylactic and therapeutic vaccines to produce proteins and polypeptides for the purpose of eliciting protection against HIV infection or disease. A process for the selection of HIV subtype isolates comprises the steps of isolating viruses from recently infected subjects; generating a consensus sequence for at least part of at least one HIV gene by identifying the most common codon or amino acid among the isolated viruses; and selecting the isolated virus or viruses with a high sequence identity to the consensus sequence. HIV-1 subtype C isolates, designated Du422, Du 151 and Du 179 (assigned Accession Numbers 01032114, 00072724 and 00072725, respectively, by the European Collection of Cell Cultures) are also provided.
US07910706B2 Humanized neutralizing antibodies against hemolytic uremic syndrome
Novel human monoclonal antibodies derived from a transgenic mouse are disclosed as well as a process for the preparation of the novel monoclonals and a therapeutic method of treating an individual for hemolytic uremic syndrome or of protecting an individual against hemolytic uremic syndrome by administration of the monoclonals to the individual in need of treatment or protection.
US07910705B2 Stable cell lines expressing HERG1a and HERG1b
A line of cultured mammalian cells includes HERG1b subunits and optionally HERG1a subunits.
US07910703B2 Antagonists to IL-17A, IL-17F, and IL-23P19 and methods of use
The present invention relates to blocking, inhibiting, reducing, antagonizing or neutralizing the activity of IL-17A, IL-17F, and IL-23. Antagonists include antibodies and antibody fragments that bind IL-23 and that bind IL-17A or IL-17F, such as antibodies that are cross-reactive for IL-17A and Il-17F. Antagonists that include an antibody or antibody fragment that binds IL-23 and an antibody or antibody fragment that binds IL-17A or IL-17F on one molecule are also disclosed. Antibodies and antibody fragments that bind IL-23 and IL-17F but that do not bind IL-17A are also disclosed. IL-17 and IL-23 are cytokines that are involved in inflammatory processes and human disease.
US07910702B2 Recombinant antibodies to sclerotinia antigens
The invention is directed to recombinant antibodies which bind to Sclerotinia sclerotiorum antigens and comprise a single chain variable fragment (scFv). The antigen may be selected from SSPG1d or a portion thereof, aspartyl protease or a portion thereof, or whole Sclerotinia sclerotiorum mycelium. The invention also provides an antibody linked to an anti-fungal polypeptide. The invention extends to nucleic acid sequences encoding the antibodies, and expression vectors comprising the nucleic acid sequences. The invention is also directed to transgenic plants, seeds, tissues or cells transformed with the expression vectors. Methods for producing a transgenic plant that is resistant to Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, and for detecting Sclerotinia sclerotiorum in a biological sample utilizing an antibody which binds to Sclerotinia sclerotiorum antigen, and immunoassay kit for same are also provided.
US07910687B2 Conjugated polymers containing arylamine units, the representation thereof and the use of the same
The present invention relates to conjugated polymers which contain specific fused arylamine structural units. The inventive materials have improved efficiency at a high illumination density and are therefore suitable in particular for use in what are known as passive matrix displays.
US07910683B2 Tough and strongly-adherent anti-icing coatings
A polysiloxane(amide-ureide) which inhibits the ability of ice to adhere to a surface of a physical object when applied to a surface of a substrate. The polysiloxane(amide-ureide) has a backbone including: (i) at least one diamine-terminated polysiloxane of the general formula: wherein, for each unit of the polysiloxane R1 and R2 are independently selected from the group consisting of C1 to C10 alkyls, aryls, and polyaryls; for each unit of the polysiloxane R3 and R4 are independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, C1 to C6 alkyls, aryls, C3 to C6 cycloaliphatics, and C3 to C6 heterocycles; for each unit of the polysiloxane A1 and A2 are independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, C1 to C6 alkyls, aryls, polyaryls, C3 to C6 cycloaliphatics, and C3 to C6 heterocycles; for each unit of the polysiloxane, x is a number from 1 to 1000; (ii) at least one aromatic diamine; (iii) at least one diisocyanate; and (iv) at least one halide substituted dicarboxylic acid.
US07910681B2 Curable composition having improved adhesion
There is provided a curable composition having good adhesion by using a non-organotin catalyst.The curable composition comprises (A) an organic polymer having a silicon-containing group being capable of crosslinking by forming siloxane bonds and (B) one or more kinds selected from a titanium catalyst, an aluminum catalyst and a zirconium catalyst, and is characterized in that a stress at 50% tension is within a range from 0.01 MPa to 0.20 MPa, when determined by adding and mixing 1.5 parts of tin octylate, 0.25 part by weight of laurylamine and 0.6 part by weight of pure water to 100 parts by weight of the component (A), subjecting the mixture to centrifugal defoaming, pouring the mixture carefully into a polyethylene frame not to mix air bubbles thereto, aging the mixture at 23° C. for one hour, and further at 70° C. for 20 hours, punching the obtained 3 mm thick cured sheet according to JIS K6251 to obtain No. 3 dumbbell, and carrying out a tension test (tensile speed: 200 mm/min) at 23° C. at 50% RH.
US07910668B2 Method for on-line determination of degree or onset of resin stickiness using acoustic data
Provided is a method for monitoring a polymerization reaction in a fluid bed reactor to determine in on-line fashion a current value, and preferably also a limiting value, of a stickiness control temperature, and optionally controlling the reaction in response thereto in an effort to prevent occurrence of a discontinuity event. The stickiness control temperature is a temperature indicative of a characteristic of melting behavior of polymer resin in the reactor, and may be indicative of occurrence of resin sheeting or another discontinuity event. Optionally , a predetermined relation between values of acoustic energy in the reactor and values of a stickiness control temperature in used to provide error checking for determination of the stickiness control temperature, or a current value of the stickiness control temperature is determined from acoustic data and a predetermined relation between values of an acoustic condition in the reactor and values of the stickiness control temperature.
US07910660B2 Zwitterionic block copolymers and methods
Zwitterionic block copolymers having oppositely charged or chargeable terminal groups, and methods of making and using the same, are disclosed. The zwitterionic block copolymers can undergo microphase separation. In some embodiments a zwitterionic block copolymer includes a first terminal block having a positively charged or chargeable group at a terminal end, and a second terminal block having a negatively charged or chargeable group at another terminal end. The zwitterionic block copolymer is configured to undergo microphase separation to assemble into alternating lamellar domains; with one of the alternating domains being composed of the first terminal block, and with another of the alternating domains being composed of the second terminal block.
US07910658B2 Compositions of ethylene/α-olefin multi-block interpolymer for elastic films and laminates
This invention relates to polyolefin compositions. In particular, the invention pertains to elastic polymer compositions that can be more easily processed on cast film lines, extrusion lamination or coating lines. The compositions of the present invention preferably comprise an elastomeric polyolefin resin and a high pressure low density type resin.
US07910646B1 Molding composition with reduced coefficient of friction and improved release properties
This invention relates to a composition and method of modifying the surface of a polymeric to produce a film or article with a reduced coefficient of friction (COF) and improved release properties. The reduced coefficient of friction improves both the slip and anti-blocking properties of the material as well aiding in processing of the polymeric material. Additionally, the invention improves demolding and release of the polymeric material from other polymeric surfaces or adhesives as well as metal molding surfaces.
US07910644B2 High film build coating composition containing polytrimethylene ether diol
The present disclosure is directed to a coating composition that is capable of producing coatings being sag-free at high coating thicknesses, having excellent adhesion to substrates, and good appearance. This disclosure is further directed to a coating composition comprising components derived from renewable resources.
US07910639B2 Resin compositions, prepregs and laminates
The present invention relates generally to resin compositions having a generally halogen-free epoxy resin that can encompass a novolak epoxy resin, a curing agent and a non-halogen flame-retardant material. For some embodiments, the curing agent can be dicyandiamide and the flame retardant can be 10-benzyl-9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide. Embodiments of the current invention also relate generally to prepregs prepared from such resin compositions; and laminates prepared from such prepregs.
US07910628B2 Acid-based polymeric dispersants with 2-[2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethoxy]acetic acid
The disclosure relates to acid-based polymeric dispersants containing 2-[2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethoxy]acetic acid for dispersing metal oxide nanoparticles in organic solvents such as methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) and butyl acetate.
US07910626B2 Use of S1P receptor agonists in heart diseases
The invention relates to the use of a sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor agonist in the treatment of heart diseases.
US07910624B1 Compositions for the treatment of blood disorders
The invention relates to compositions containing chemical compounds and compositions containing steel factor which stimulate the expression of hemoglobin or globin protein such as embryonic or fetal globin, or the proliferation of hemoglobin expressing and other cells. These compositions can be used to treat or prevent the symptoms associated with anemia, sickle cell diseases, thalassemia and other blood disorders. The invention also relates to methods for administering these compositions to patients and to medical aids for the treatment and prevention of blood and other disorders.
US07910618B2 Albumin-binding conjugates comprising a fatty acid and PEG
The present invention provides an albumin-binding compound essentially of the following elements: a spacer group, a water-soluble bridging group, a fatty acid chain and an acidic group characterised in that the acidic group is attached to the distal end of the fatty acid chain. The invention also provides an albumin-binding compound to which one or more biologically active moieties are attached.
US07910617B2 Method for suppressing the number of peripheral blood lymphocytes using an amino alcohol compound
A method for suppressing the number of peripheral blood lymphocytes involving administering to a human in need thereof a pharmaceutically effective amount of a compound which is (2R) -2-amino-2-methyl-4-{1-methyl-5-[4-(4-methylphenyl)butanoyl]pyrrol-2-yl}butan-1-ol or a pharmacologically acceptable salt thereof, such as the hydrochloride salt.
US07910608B2 Biphenyl compounds useful as muscarinic receptor antagonists
This invention provides compounds of formula I: wherein a, b, c, d, m, n, p, s, t, W, Ar1, R1, R2, R3, R4, R6, R7, and R8 are as defined in the specification. The compounds of formula I are muscarinic receptor antagonists. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds, processes and intermediates for preparing such compounds and methods of using such compounds to treat pulmonary disorders.
US07910604B2 Antioxidant combinations for use in feed rations to increase milk production and milk fat
The present invention provides a combination of antioxidants that effectively stabilize different types of fats utilized in a ruminant diet. When included in a ruminant feed ration or water source, the antioxidant combination typically increases nutrient digestion, such as fiber and protein, improves rumen fermentation, improves microbial growth, improves microbial efficiency, increases milk production and/or milk fat, improves antioxidant status of the ruminant, and attenuates the negative effects of some fats in the ruminant animal.
US07910597B2 Substituted quinazolines
This invention relates to the discovery of 3- and 5-substituted analogues of the selective platelet lowering agent anagrelide with reduced potential for cardiovascular side-effects which should lead to improved patient compliance and safety in the treatment of myeloproliferative diseases. More specifically, the present invention relates to certain imidazoquinazoline derivatives which have utility as platelet lowering agents in humans. The compounds of the present invention function by inhibiting megakaryocytopoeisis and hence the formation of blood platelets.
US07910586B2 Compositions and methods for prevention and treatment of amyloid-β peptide-related disorders
The present invention provides methods and compositions for modulating levels of amyloid-β peptide (Aβ) exhibited by cells or tissues. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions and methods of screening for compounds that modulate Aβ levels. The invention also provides modulation of Aβ levels via selective modulation (e.g., inhibition) of ATP-dependent γ-secretase activity. The invention also provides methods of preventing, treating or ameliorating the symptoms of a disorder, including but not limited to an Aβ-related disorder, by administering a modulator of γ-secretase, including, but not limited to, a selective inhibitor of ATP-dependent γ-secretase activity or an agent that decreases the formation of active (or optimally active) γ-secretase. The invention also provides the use of inhibitors of ATP-dependent γ-secretase activity to prevent, treat or ameliorate the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.
US07910583B2 [6,6] and [6,7]-bicyclic GPR119 G protein-coupled receptor agonists
Novel compounds are provided which are GPR119 G protein-coupled receptor modulators. GPR119 G protein-coupled receptor modulators are useful in treating, preventing, or slowing the progression of diseases requiring GPR119 G protein-coupled receptor modulator therapy. These novel compounds have the structure: or stereoisomers or prodrugs or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein n1, n2, n3, n4, A, B, D, E, G, Y, Z, R1 and R2 are defined herein.
US07910570B2 Composition comprising a combination of an aromatase inhibitor, a progestin and an oestrogen and its use for the treatment of endometriosis
The invention relates to a method of treating endometriosis using a combination of an aromatase inhibitor, a progestin and an oestrogen. The invention also relates to pharmaceutical formulations comprising said combination.
US07910566B2 Prevention and treatment of acute renal failure and other kidney diseases by inhibition of p53 by siRNA
The invention relates to a double-stranded compound, preferably an oligoribonucleotide, which down-regulates the expression of a human p53 gene. The invention also relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising the compound, or a vector capable of expressing the oligoribonucleotide compound, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The present invention also contemplates a method of treating a patient suffering from acute renal failure or other kidney diseases comprising administering to the patient the pharmaceutical composition in a therapeutically effective dose so as to thereby treat the patient.
US07910558B2 Bridged macrocyclic compounds and processes for the preparation thereof
The present invention provides a method for preparing bridged macrocyclic compounds comprising the step of reacting a macrocyclic compound characterized by having at least two nucleophilic moieties with a bifunctional bridging reagent optionally in the presence of a catalyst, thereby producing a bridged macrocyclic product.
US07910548B2 Methods for treating obesity
Methods for treating obesity are disclosed which comprise administration of a therapeutically effective amount of an amylin or an amylin agonist alone or in conjunction with another obesity relief agent.
US07910543B2 Control of growth and repair of gastro-intestinal tissues by gastrokines and inhibitors
A novel group of gastrokines called Gastric Antrum Mucosal Protein is characterized. A member of the group is designated AMP-18. AMP-18 genomic DNA, cDNA and the AMP-18 protein are sequenced for human, mouse and pig. The AMP-18 protein and active peptides derived from it are cellular growth factors. Surprisingly, peptides capable of inhibiting the effects of the complete protein, are also derived from the AMP-18 protein. Cytoprotection and control of mammalian gastro-intestinal tissue growth and repair (restitution) is facilitated by the use of the proteins, making the proteins candidates for therapies in inflammatory bowel disease, mucositis, and gastric ulcers.
US07910541B2 Enzyme treatment of foodstuffs for celiac sprue
Administering an effective dose of glutenase to a Celiac or dermatitis herpetiformis patient reduces levels of toxic gluten oligopeptides, thereby attenuating or eliminating the damaging effects of gluten.
US07910533B2 Solid laundry detergent composition comprising anionic detersive surfactant and calcium-augmented technology
The present invention relates to a solid laundry detergent composition in particulate form, comprising: (a) anionic detersive surfactant; (b) a calcium-augmented technology; (c) from 0% to less than 5%, by weight of the composition, of zeolite builder; (d) from 0% to less than 5%, by weight of the composition, of phosphate builder and (e) optionally, from 0% to less than 5%, by weight of the composition, of silicate salt.
US07910527B2 Wear resistant lubricious composite
A wear resistant lubricious composite includes a synthetic resin binder, a plurality of transfer film forming particles, and a plurality of hard nanoparticles. The hard nanoparticles are selected from the group consisting of metal oxides, metal carbides and metal nitride nanoparticles. A method of forming wear resistant lubricious composite articles includes the steps of providing a liquid phase synthetic resin precursor, adding a plurality of transfer film forming particles and a plurality of hard nanoparticles selected from the group consisting of metal oxide, metal carbide and metal nitride nanoparticles to the resin precursor to form a mixture, adding a hardener to the mixture, and curing the mixture.
US07910518B2 Geometrically sized solid shaped carrier for olefin epoxidation catalyst
A geometrically shaped solid carrier is provided that improves the performance and effectiveness of an olefin epoxidation catalyst for epoxidizing an olefin to an olefin oxide. In particular, improved performance and effectiveness of an olefin epoxidation catalyst is achieved by utilizing a geometrically shaped refractory solid carrier in which at least one wall thickness of said carrier is less than 2.5 mm.
US07910515B2 Photocatalyst
Silicon titanium mixed oxide powder having the following features: BET surface area of 5 to 300 m2/g, silica content, based on the total amount of the mixed oxide powder, of ≧0.1 to <0.5% by weight, titanium dioxide content, based on the total amount of the mixed oxide powder, of ≧99.0% by weight, sum of the proportions of silica and titanium dioxide, based on the total amount of the mixed oxide powder, ≧99.5% by weight, titanium dioxide content of the primary particles comprising intergrown rutile and anatase phases, silica content of the primary particles amorphous, is prepared by allowing the vapours of one or more, in each case oxidizable and/or hydrolyzable titanium and silicon compounds to react in a high temperature zone with oxygen and/or steam, cooling the reaction mixture after the reaction and separating off the pulverulent solid from gaseous substances.
US07910513B2 Photocatalyst sheet and methods of welding and manufacturing the same
The present invention provides the photocatalyst sheet and the methods of welding and manufacturing the same, by which the substrate and resin of the photocatalyst-containing layer are not decomposed by photocatalyst particles, mutual welding of sheets is easy, and the photo-redox effect of a photocatalyst can be obtained. A photocatalyst sheet (1b) comprises a substrate (2) such as fiber and coated layers (3) on both sides of the substrate (2), and the coated layer (3) constitutes the photocatalyst-containing layer in which apatite-coated photocatalyst particles (4) are dispersed and fixed with resin. Here, the coated photocatalyst particles (4) on the surface of the photocatalyst-containing layer are so fixed as to have the parts exposed from the surface of the photocatalyst-containing layer. In case that photocatalyst sheets (1b) are mutually welded, the photocatalyst-containing layer of each photocatalyst sheet (1b) is not removed, and its surface is mutually held, and welded together by thermal welding or others.
US07910511B2 Method of preparing metallic nanoparticles and materials thus obtained
The invention relates to a method of preparing metallic nanoparticles and to the materials thus obtained. More specifically, the invention relates to a method of preparing metallic nanoparticles consisting in: selecting a precursor from the salts, hydroxides and oxides of metallic elements that can be reduced at temperatures below the clay silicate network destruction temperature; and depositing said precursor on a support selected from pseudolaminar phyllosilicate clays. According to the invention the method comprises: (i) a deposition step in which the precursor is deposited on the support: (ii) when the precursor is selected from among salts and hydroxides, a thermal decomposition step in a controlled atmosphere, in which the precursor is subjected to a decomposition process and is transformed into an oxide of the metallic element: and (iii) a reduction step in which the oxide of the metallic element is subjected to a reduction process in a controlled atmosphere. The aforementioned method is performed at temperatures below the clay silicate network destruction temperature.
US07910508B2 Zirconium-base sintered product
The inventive sintered product is produced from an initial feedstock having a zirconium content ranging from 75 to 99% and the following average chemical weight composition, in percentage by weight, based on oxides: 60%=ZrO2+HfO2=75%, 27%=SiO2=34%, 0.2=TiO2=1.5 %, 0.3
US07910504B2 Desert camouflage
A thermal camouflage material for use on a tank or other military vehicle in a desert environment includes an outer layer of knitted fiberglass alone or with polyester having an outer coating of PVC and carbon black, and an inner film of aluminum; and an inner layer defined by a three-dimensional decoupling fabric between the aluminum film on the outer layer. The decoupling fabric is formed of outer and inner polyester mesh films with polyaramid sandwiched therebetween.
US07910503B2 Ballistic laminate structure
A ballistic-resistant laminate assembly having a pair of films and a pair of first and second interlinear arrays of unidirectionally-oriented bundles of high strength filaments therebetween with filament bundles of the first array each being arranged substantially interlinear with adjacent filament bundles of the second array and further being in at least intermittent contact therewith. Respective surfaces the filament bundles of the second array are coupled to the first film with substantially continuous thin linear deposits of a coupling agent, and respective surfaces of the filament bundles of the first array are coupled to the second film with substantially continuous thin linear deposits of a coupling agent.
US07910494B2 Thermal processing furnace, gas delivery system therefor, and methods for delivering a process gas thereto
A gas delivery system for supplying a process gas from a gas supply to a thermal processing furnace, a thermal processing furnace equipped with the gas delivery system, and methods for delivering process gas to a thermal processing furnace. The gas delivery system comprises a plurality of regulators, such as mass flow controllers, in a process gas manifold coupling a gas supply with a thermal processing furnace. The regulators establish a corresponding plurality of flows of a process gas at a plurality of flow rates communicated by the process gas manifold to the thermal processing furnace. The gas delivery system may be a component of the thermal processing furnace that further includes a liner that surrounds a processing space inside the thermal processing furnace.
US07910491B2 Gapfill improvement with low etch rate dielectric liners
A method of filling a trench is described and includes depositing a dielectric liner with a high ratio of silicon oxide to dielectric liner etch rate in fluorine-containing etch chemistries. Silicon oxide is deposited within the trench and etched to reopen or widen a gap near the top of the trench. The dielectric liner protects the underlying substrate during the etch process so the gap can be made wider. Silicon oxide is deposited within the trench again to substantially fill the trench.
US07910488B2 Alternative method for advanced CMOS logic gate etch applications
Methods for etching, such as for fabricating a CMOS logic gate are provided herein. In some embodiments, a method of etching includes (a) providing a substrate having a first stack and a second stack disposed thereupon, the first stack comprising a high-k dielectric layer, a metal layer formed over the high-k dielectric layer, and a first polysilicon layer formed over the metal layer, the second stack comprising a second polysilicon layer, wherein the first and second stacks are substantially equal in thickness; (b) simultaneously etching a first feature in the first polysilicon layer and a second feature in the second polysilicon layer until the metal layer in the first stack is exposed; (c) simultaneously etching the metal layer and second polysilicon layer to extend the respective first and second features into the first and second stacks; and (d) etching the high-k dielectric layer.
US07910487B2 Reverse masking profile improvements in high aspect ratio etch
A method of improving high aspect ratio etching by reverse masking to provide a more uniform mask height between the array and periphery is presented. A layer of amorphous carbon is deposited over a substrate. An inorganic hard mask is deposited on the amorphous carbon followed by a layer of photodefinable material which is deposited over the array portion of the substrate. The photodefinable material is removed along with the inorganic hard mask overlaying the periphery. A portion of the amorphous carbon layer is etched in the exposed periphery. The inorganic hard mask is removed and normal high aspect ratio etching continues. The amount of amorphous carbon layer remaining in the periphery results in a more uniform mask height between the array and periphery at the end of high aspect ratio etching. The more uniform mask height mitigates twisting at the edge of the array.
US07910486B2 Method for forming nanotube semiconductor devices
A method for forming a semiconductor device includes forming a nanotube region using a thin epitaxial layer formed on the sidewall of a trench in the semiconductor body. The thin epitaxial layer has uniform doping concentration. In another embodiment, a first thin epitaxial layer of the same conductivity type as the semiconductor body is formed on the sidewall of a trench in the semiconductor body and a second thin epitaxial layer of the opposite conductivity type is formed on the first epitaxial layer. The first and second epitaxial layers have uniform doping concentration. The thickness and doping concentrations of the first and second epitaxial layers and the semiconductor body are selected to achieve charge balance. In one embodiment, the semiconductor body is a lightly doped P-type substrate. A vertical trench MOSFET, an IGBT, a Schottky diode and a P-N junction diode can be formed using the same N-Epi/P-Epi nanotube structure.
US07910481B2 Method for fabricating semiconductor device
A method for fabricating a semiconductor device includes forming an interlayer dielectric layer having a plurality of contact holes over a substrate, forming a conductive layer by filling the contact holes to cover the interlayer dielectric layer, performing a first main etch process to partially etch the conductive layer to form a first conductive layer, performing a second main etch process to etch the first conductive layer using an etch gas having a slower etch rate with respect to the first conductive layer than an etch gas used in the first main etch process until an upper surface of the interlayer dielectric layer is exposed to form a second conductive layer, and performing an over-etch process to etch a certain portion of the second conductive layer, and at the same time, to etch a certain portion of the interlayer dielectric layer to form a landing plug.
US07910479B2 Method of manufacturing a photodiode array with through-wafer vias
A method for manufacturing a photodiode array includes providing a semiconductor substrate having first and second main surfaces opposite to each other. The semiconductor substrate has a first layer of a first conductivity proximate the first main surface and a second layer of a second conductivity proximate the second main surface. A via is formed in the substrate which extends to a first depth position relative to the first main surface. The via has a first aspect ratio. Generally simultaneously with forming the via, an isolation trench is formed in the substrate spaced apart from the via which extends to a second depth position relative to the first main surface. The isolation trench has a second aspect ratio different from the first aspect ratio.
US07910473B2 Through-silicon via with air gap
A semiconductor substrate having a through-silicon via with an air gap interposed between the through-silicon via and the semiconductor substrate is provided. An opening is formed partially through the semiconductor substrate. The opening is first lined with a liner and then the opening is filled with a conductive material. A backside of the semiconductor substrate is thinned to expose the liner, which is subsequently removed to form an air gap around the conductive material of the through-silicon via. A dielectric layer is formed of the backside of the semiconductor substrate to seal the air gap.
US07910472B2 Method of manufacturing semiconductor device
A semiconductor device with improved bondability between a wire and a bump and cutting property of the wire to improve the bonding quality. In the semiconductor device, a wire is stacked on a pad as a second bonding point to form a bump having a sloped wedge and a first bent wire convex portion, and a wire is looped from a lead as a first bonding point to the bump and is pressed to the sloped wedge of the bump with a face portion of a tip end of a capillary to bond the wire to the bump. At the same time, the wire is pressed to the first bent wire convex portion using an inner chamfer of a bonding wire hole in the capillary to form a wire bent portion having a bow-shaped cross section. The wire is pulled up and cut at the wire bent portion.
US07910471B2 Bumpless wafer scale device and board assembly
A semiconductor chip having a planar active surface including an integrated circuit; the circuit has metallization patterns including a plurality of contact pads. Each of these contact pads has an added conductive layer on the circuit metallization. This added layer has a conformal surface adjacent the chip and a planar outer surface, and this outer surface is suitable to form metallurgical bonds without melting. The chip contact pads may have a distribution such that an area portion of the active chip surface is available for attaching a thermally conductive plate; this plate has a thickness compatible with the thickness of the conductive pad layer.
US07910468B1 Methods and compositions for preparing Ge/Si semiconductor substrates
The present disclosure describes methods for preparing semiconductor structures, comprising forming a Ge layer on a semiconductor substrate using an admixture of (a) (GeH3)2CH2 and Ge2H6; (b) GeH3CH3 and Ge2H6; or (c) (GeH3)2CH2, GeH3CH3 and Ge2H6, wherein in all cases, Ge2H6 is in excess. The disclosure further provides semiconductor structures formed according to the methods of the invention as well as compositions comprising an admixture of (GeH3)2CH2 and/or GeH3CH3 and Ge2H6 in a ratio of between about 1:5 and 1:30. The methods herein provide, and the semiconductor structures provide, Ge layers formed on semiconductor substrates having threading dislocation density below 105/cm2 which can be useful in semiconductor devices.
US07910448B2 Method for fabricating a mono-crystalline emitter
Fabrication of a mono-crystalline emitter using a combination of selective and differential growth modes. The steps include providing a trench (14) formed on a silicon substrate (16) having opposed silicon oxide side walls (12); selectively growing a highly doped mono-crystalline layer (18) on the silicon substrate in the trench; and non-selectively growing a silicon layer (20) over the trench in order to form an amorphous polysilicon layer over the silicon oxide sidewalls.
US07910440B2 Semiconductor device and method for making the same
A semiconductor device includes: a first trench that is formed in a semiconductor substrate; a gate oxide film that is formed on a surface of the first trench; and a trench gate electrode that is formed so as to bury the first trench via the gate oxide film. The semiconductor device also includes: a second trench that is formed in the semiconductor substrate with a width wider than the width of the first trench; and a terminal-embedded insulation layer that is formed so as to bury the second trench. The semiconductor device further includes: a third trench that is formed in the semiconductor substrate with a width wider than the width of the second trench; and a trench contact electrode that is formed so as to bury the third trench.
US07910438B2 Method for fabricating semiconductor device including recess gate
A method for fabricating a semiconductor device includes etching a substrate to form a first trench pattern, forming spacers over sidewalls of the first trench pattern, etching a bottom portion of the first trench pattern using the spacers as a barrier to form a second trench pattern, performing an isotropic etching on the second trench pattern to round sidewalls of the second trench pattern and form a bulb pattern, and forming a gate over a recess pattern including the first trench pattern, the rounded second trench pattern and the bulb pattern.
US07910433B2 Methods of fabricating multi-layer nonvolatile memory devices
A nonvolatile memory device includes a semiconductor substrate having a first well region of a first conductivity type, and at least one semiconductor layer formed on the semiconductor substrate. A first cell array is formed on the semiconductor substrate, and a second cell array formed on the semiconductor layer. The semiconductor layer includes a second well region of the first conductivity type having a doping concentration greater than a doping concentration of the first well region of the first conductivity type. As the doping concentration of the second well region is increased, a resistance difference may be reduced between the first and second well regions.
US07910411B2 Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing the same
A semiconductor device includes a semiconductor substrate, a cell region, an outer peripheral region, a field plate, an outermost peripheral ring, outer peripheral region layer, an insulator film, and a Zener diode. The semiconductor substrate has a superjunction structure. The outer peripheral region is disposed at an outer periphery of the cell region. The Zener diode is disposed on the insulator film for electrically connecting the field plate with the outermost peripheral ring. The Zener diode has a first conductivity type region and a second conductivity type region that are alternately arranged in a direction from the cell region to the outer peripheral region.
US07910405B2 Semiconductor device having adhesion increasing film to prevent peeling
A semiconductor device includes at least one semiconductor constructing body provided on one side of a base member, and having a semiconductor substrate and a plurality of external connecting electrodes provided on the semiconductor substrate. An insulating layer is provided on the one side of the base member around the semiconductor constructing body. An adhesion increasing film is formed between the insulating layer, and at least one of the semiconductor constructing body and the base member around the semiconductor constructing body, for preventing peeling between the insulating layer and the at least one of the semiconductor constructing body and base member.
US07910396B2 Three-stage formation of thin-films for photovoltaic devices
A method for producing a film of compound semiconductor includes providing a substrate and a compound bulk material having a first chemical composition that includes at least one first chemical element and a second chemical element. A film is deposited on the substrate using the compound bulk material as a single source of material. The deposited film has a composition substantially the same as the first chemical composition. A residual chemical reaction is induced in the deposited film using a source containing the second chemical element to thereby increase the content of the second chemical element in the deposited film so that the deposited film has a second chemical composition. The film may be employed in a photovoltaic device.
US07910395B2 LED structure
An LED structure includes a first substrate; an adhering layer formed on the first substrate; first ohmic contact layers formed on the adhering layer; epi-layers formed on the first ohmic contact layers; a first isolation layer covering the first ohmic contact layers and the epi-layers at exposed surfaces thereof; and first electrically conducting plates and second electrically conducting plates, both formed in the first isolation layer and electrically connected to the first ohmic contact layers and the epi-layers, respectively. The trenches allow the LED structure to facilitate complex serial/parallel connection so as to achieve easy and various applications of the LED structure in the form of single structures under a high-voltage environment.
US07910391B2 Getter formed by laser-treatment and methods of making same
The present disclosure relates to methods of treating a silicon substrate with an ultra-fast laser to create a getter material for example in a substantially enclosed MEMS package. In an embodiment, the laser treating comprises irradiating the silicon surface with a plurality of laser pulses adding gettering microstructure to the treated surface. Semiconductor based packaged devices, e.g. MEMS, are given as examples hereof.
US07910390B2 Resonant MEMS device that detects photons, particles and small forces
A resonant MEMS device that detects photons, particles and small forces including atomic forces is disclosed. The device comprises a planar substrate 1, two electrodes 2 and 3 on top of the substrate, a resonant micro-electromechanical (MEMS) structure 6, such as a cantilever, anchored to first electrode 2 and arranged above the second electrode 3 separated from this electrode with an ultrathin transition layer 5. The resonant MEMS structure is working at its natural resonant frequency. The resonant oscillation of the cantilever can be initiated by applying AC voltage with frequency equaling the resonant frequency of the MEMS structure. A constant voltage is applied between the cantilever and the second electrode. The cantilever oscillates at very small amplitude ranging from few Ångstrom (Å) to several nm. During operation, a constant component of the electrical current is measured between the cantilever and the second electrode 3. The electrical current is a tunnelling current described by quantum mechanical probability with which the electrons can tunnel through the transition layer. The thickness of the transition layer is selected so that at no resonance the constant component of the electrical current is about zero and at resonance the DC electrical current has non-zero value and reaches its maximum. When the cantilever interacts with photons, particles or atoms on surfaces then the MEMS device measures their energies using change in the DC tunnelling current and shift of resonant frequency.
US07910389B2 Vertical semiconductor light-emitting device and method of manufacturing the same
Provided is a vertical semiconductor light-emitting device and a method of manufacturing the same. The method may include sequentially forming a lower clad layer, an active layer, and an upper clad layer on a substrate to form a semiconductor layer and forming first electrode layers on the upper clad layer. A metal support layer may be formed on each of the first electrode layers and a trench may be formed between the first electrode layers. The substrate may be removed and a second electrode layer may be formed on the lower clad layer.
US07910382B2 Device and methods for liquid crystal-based bioagent detection
The present invention provides liquid crystal-based devices and methods for bioagent detection. In certain aspects, the present invention is directed to devices and methods utilizing liquid crystals and membranes containing polymerized targets that can report the presence of bioagents including, but not limited to, enzymes, antibodies, and toxins.
US07910377B2 Methods and apparatuses for preparing a surface to have catalytic activity
The invention provides methods and apparatuses that utilize mass spectrometry for preparation of a surface to have catalytic activity through molecular soft-landing of mass selected ions. Mass spectrometry is used to generate combinations of atoms in a particular geometrical arrangement, and ion soft-landing selects this molecular entity or combination of entities and gently deposits the entity or combination intact onto a surface.
US07910373B2 H2O doped WO3, ultra-fast, high-sensitivity hydrogen sensors
An ultra-fast response, high sensitivity structure for optical detection of low concentrations of hydrogen gas, comprising: a substrate; a water-doped WO3 layer coated on the substrate; and a palladium layer coated on the water-doped WO3 layer.
US07910368B2 Method of extended culture for antigen-specific cytotoxic lymphocytes
The present invention is a method for inducing cytotoxic T cell having an antigen-specific cytotoxic activity, a method for maintaining the cell, a method for continuously culturing the cell or a method for expanding the cell, comprising the step of culturing a cytotoxic T cell in the presence of at least one substance selected from the group consisting of (A) a substance having a binding activity to CD44; (B) a substance capable of regulating a signal emitted by binding a CD44 ligand to CD44; (C) a substance capable of inhibiting binding of a growth factor to a growth factor receptor; (D) a substance capable of regulating a signal emitted by binding of a growth factor to a growth factor receptor; and (E) fibronectin, a fragment thereof or a mixture thereof.
US07910366B2 Cell strain capable of being cultured without ingredients derived from animals, method of producing the same, method of producing virus using the same, and method of producing vaccine
The invention relates to a cell strain induced from MDCK cells as dog kidney-derived cells, and being able to be cultured without ingredients derived from animals. The cell strain is produced by adapting a MDCK cell to a medium without a serum but with a cell growth factor; and culturing the cell in a medium with an RPMI 1640 medium and a soybean-derived peptone but without ingredients derived from animals.
US07910364B2 Rapidly cleavable sumo fusion protein expression system for difficult to express proteins
A recombinant expression system for the expression of a poly amino acid, peptide or protein is provided. The poly amino acid of interest is expressed as a fusion protein that includes an amino acid sequence recognized and cleaved by a Ulp1 protease. The amino acid sequence joined to the poly amino acid of interest is preferably from a SUMO (small ubiquitin-like molecule) protein. This sequence imparts favorable solubility and refolding properties to the fusion protein. A purification tag may also be incorporated into the fusion protein for ease of isolation. This recombinant expression system is particularly advantageous for expression and rapid and highly specific cleavage and purification of poly amino acids that have low solubilities or are difficult to express in other systems.
US07910361B2 Portable biological testing device and method
A device and method for providing portable biological testing capabilities free from biological contamination from an environment outside the device are provided. The device includes a portable housing. The device further includes a volume surrounded by the housing and sealed against passage of biological materials between the volume and the environment outside the device. The device further includes a culture medium within the volume. The device further includes one or more ports configured to provide access to the volume while avoiding biological contamination of the volume. The device further includes a valve in fluidic communication with the volume and the environment. The valve has an open state in which the valve allows gas to flow from within the volume to the environment outside the device and a closed state in which the valve inhibits gas from flowing between the volume and the environment. The valve switches from the closed state to the open state in response to a pressure within the volume larger than a pressure of the environment outside the device.
US07910356B2 Multiplexed biological analyzer planar array apparatus and methods
A planar array having plurality of biological recognition molecules including at least two types of biological recognition molecules distributed about a substrate is disclosed. A first type of biological recognition molecules is distributed according to a first frequency and a second type of biological recognition molecules is distributed according to a second frequency. Another planar array having a plurality of biological recognition molecules including at least two kinds of biological recognition molecules is disclosed. The recognition molecules are distributed about a substrate with first kind of biological recognition molecules distributed at a first height or depth relative to a surface of the substrate and a second kind of biological recognition molecules distributed at a second height or depth relative to the surface. An apparatus including a surface normal interferometry platform including a scanning pathway and a plurality of analyzer molecules adapted to detect the presence or absence of a plurality of target analytes is also disclosed. The plurality of analyzer molecules are distributed about the scanning pathway according to a multiplexing scheme. A method including multiplexing a plurality of kinds of capture molecules about a detection pathway is further disclosed. The method also includes contacting a biological sample to the array, detecting the presence or absence of binding of the plurality of kinds of capture molecules and a plurality of target analytes using interferometry.
US07910355B2 Culture observation apparatus
A culture observation apparatus, which is used for observing a cultured cell while culturing the cell, includes a culture device that cultures the cultured cell, and a microscope used for observing the cultured cell. The culture device includes a first space that is controlled to an environment suitable for culture of the cell, and a second space that is controlled to a lower humidity condition in comparison with the first space. The microscope includes an objective optical unit including an objective lens; the objective optical unit having at least one portion located in the second space, and another portion extending into the first space through an opening formed in a partition wall that separates the first space and the second space, with a gap between the objective optical unit and the partition wall being sealed by a sealing member, and the objective lens includes a plurality of lens groups, with mutual spaces among the lens groups vented to the second space.
US07910353B2 Methods and apparatuses for achieving precision genetic diagnoses
Methods and apparatuses for selecting and arranging clinically relevant chromosomal loci allow an exemplary diagnostic array to simultaneously test for numerous genetic alterations that occur in many different parts of the human genome. Clinically irrelevant or ineffective loci are eliminated. One implementation increases reliability and accuracy by dividing the base-pair sequence of each chromosomal locus into segments and then assigning nucleic acid clones for comparative genomic hybridization to each different segment. The segments may overlap for increased resolution and control. Clones representing segments that are adjacent on a native chromosome are placed in non-adjacent target areas of the array to avoid interfering hybridization reactions. Arrangement motifs within an array may be redundantly repeated for high availability and increased reliability and accuracy of results. Techniques, hardware, software, logic engines, loci collections, and diagnostic arrays are described.
US07910348B2 Polypeptides of Alicyclobacillus sp. having glutamic peptidase activity
Disclosed are isolated polypeptides of Alicyclobacillus sp. having glutamic peptidase activity.
US07910339B2 Process for producing polysaccharide gum
The invention provides a process for producing polysaccharide gum comprising extracting a plant material with an aqueous solvent to produce a polysaccharide gum-containing extract; contacting the extract with at least one proteolytic enzyme to at least partially digest proteins in the extract; adding an organic solvent to the extract to precipitate the polysaccharide gum; and collecting the precipitated polysaccharide gum.
US07910330B2 Efficient expression of Plasmodium apical membrane antigen in yeast cells
A method of efficiently expressing Plasmodium AMA-1 ectodomain or a functional part, derivative, and/or analogue thereof, in a eukaryotic expression system. Preferably, the Plasmodium AMA-1 ectodomain is Pf AMA-1 ectodomain. This protein may be expressed in yeast, such as Pichia pastoris. Efficient expression is possible using a method for producing mRNA encoding the Plasmodium AMA-1 ectodomain in a yeast cell, comprising providing the yeast cell with a nucleic acid encoding Plasmodium AMA-1 ectodomain, the nucleic acid being modified to utilize the yeast cell's codon usage. Preferably, at least one putative yeast polyadenylation consensus sequence in the nucleic acid has been modified. More preferably, also at least one site in the protein that is generally glycosylated by eukaryotic expression systems, has been removed.
US07910325B2 Method for determination and quantification of radiation or genotoxin exposure
The present invention discloses methods for detecting exposure of a living subject to genotoxic agents, testing sensitivity to a genotoxic agent, and determining DNA damage caused by exposure to an agent, comprising detecting the presence of FANCD2-containing foci from a sample collected from said subject. The presence of concentrated foci is indicative of DNA damage, and the degree of foci formation is correlated with degree of exposure. Diagnostic reagents contain a ligand that binds to human FANCD2 associated with a detectable label. Kits for detecting DNA damage in a biological sample contain such diagnostic reagents and signal detection components. The invention further discloses methods for identifying agents which modulate the ability of FANCD2-containing foci to form. Among other things, such agents are potentially useful chemosensitizing agents or may confer protection against damage caused by genotoxic agents.
US07910324B2 Method of screening for compounds which affect the processing of EphA4 by γ-secretase
The present invention provides a method of screening for compounds which affect the processing of EphA4 by γ-secretase, which includes the following steps: (i) contacting a first biological composition containing γ-secretase or a biologically active fragment thereof with a second biological composition containing EphA4 in the presence and absence of a candidate compound; (ii) measuring the cleavage of the EphA4 in the presence and absence of the candidate compound; (iii) selecting those candidate compounds which affect the cleavage of the EphA4 by γ-secretase; and (iv) identifying the candidate compounds selected in step (iii) as compounds which affect the processing of EphA4 by γ-secretase.
US07910323B2 Methods for identifying the effect of a drug agent on the metabolism of sugars and fats in an individual
Provided herein are methods for determining the metabolism of one or more sugars and/or fatty acids, and applications thereof. Such applications include determining the rate of glycogen synthesis and glycolysis, which are believed to be early markers for predicting elevated risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Other applications include methods for screening drugs that effect sugar and/or fatty acid metabolism. The methods are useful for at least partially characterizing drugs for desirable or undesirable (toxic) characteristics. Drugs that are at least partially characterized using the methods of the invention can then be further developed in pre-clinical testing and clinical trials. Such drugs may be found to be useful in treating obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other disorders of metabolism.
US07910308B1 Genetic markers in fatty acid synthase for identification of meat product fatty acid content in cattle
Genetic markers associated with fatty acid content in meat products from animals, particularly Angus cattle, are described. The genetic markers are located in the thioesterase-encoding region of the fatty acid synthase gene. The markers allow animals to be characterized for breeding or for identification purposes to indicate animals likely to have a distribution of fatty acids that are healthier, thus generating improved meat products.
US07910302B2 Efficient arrays of amplified polynucleotides
The present invention is related generally to analysis of polynucleotides, particularly polynucleotides derived from genomic DNA. The invention provides methods, compositions and systems for such analysis. Encompassed by the invention are arrays of polynucleotides in which the polynucleotides have undergone multiple rounds of amplification in order to increase the strength of signals associated with single polynucleotide molecules.
US07910301B2 Methods for drug discovery, disease treatment, and diagnosis using metabolomics
The small molecule profiles of cells are compared to identify small molecules which are modulated in altered states. Cellular small molecule libraries, methods of identifying tissue sources, methods for treating genetic and non-genetic diseases, and methods for predicting the efficacy of drugs are also discussed.
US07910295B2 Detection of micro metastasis of melanoma and breast cancer in paraffin-embedded tumor draining lymph nodes by multimarker quantitative RT-PCR
The invention provides a quantitative realtime RT-PCR assay for detection of metastatic breast, gastric, pancreas or colon cancer cells or metastatic melanoma. The assay allows to predict disease recurrence and survival in patients with AJCC stage I and II, and III disease using multimarker panels. The method for detecting metastatic melanoma cells utilizes panels of markers selected from a group consisting of MAGE-A3, GalNAcT, MART-1, PAX3, Mitf, TRP-2, and Tyrosinase. The method for detecting metastatic breast, gastric, pancreas or colon cancer cells in paraffin-embedded samples utilizes panels of markers selected from a group consisting of C-Met, MAGE-A3, Stanniocalcin-1, mammoglobin, HSP27, GalNAcT, CK20, and β-HCG.
US07910291B2 Method for manufacturing semiconductor device using immersion lithography process
A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device using an immersion lithography process is disclosed. The immersion lithography process includes forming a photoresist film over an underlying layer of a semiconductor substrate; exposing the photoresist film to light without using an exposure mask; and performing an exposure process using an exposure mask. After exposure using the immersion lithography, a water mark generated from the exposure layer consumes a part of the acid of the exposure layer but the residual acid remains in the exposure layer to prevent generation of pattern defects such as T-top or pattern bridges.
US07910288B2 Mask material conversion
The dimensions of mask patterns, such as pitch-multiplied spacers, are controlled by controlled growth of features in the patterns after they are formed. To form a pattern of pitch-multiplied spacers, a pattern of mandrels is first formed overlying a semiconductor substrate. Spacers are then formed on sidewalls of the mandrels by depositing a blanket layer of material over the mandrels and preferentially removing spacer material from horizontal surfaces. The mandrels are then selectively removed, leaving behind a pattern of freestanding spacers. The spacers comprise a material, such as polysilicon and amorphous silicon, known to increase in size upon being oxidized. The spacers are oxidized to grow them to a desired width. After reaching the desired width, the spacers can be used as a mask to pattern underlying layers and the substrate. Advantageously, because the spacers are grown by oxidation, thinner blanket layers can be deposited over the mandrels, thereby allowing the deposition of more conformal blanket layers and widening the process window for spacer formation.
US07910284B2 Materials for photoresist, photoresist composition and method of forming resist pattern
To overcome the problem that a device performance is degraded by the edge roughness of a photoresist pattern, a mixture of polynuclear phenol compounds having, in one molecule, 0 to 6 functional groups which are chemically converted due to actions of an acid with the solubility in an alkaline developer reduced is used as a material for photoresist. In the mixture, two or more triphenyl methane structures are bonded to portions other than the functional group in the nonconjugated state. Furthermore, the mixture comprises polynuclear compounds with the average number of functional groups of 2.5 or below and includes the polynuclear compounds not having any functional group per molecule by 15% or less in the term of weight ratio, and the polynuclear phenol compounds having 3 or more functional groups per molecule by 40% or less.
US07910280B2 Method for producing polymerized toner
The present invention provides a method of producing a polymerized toner which removes a by-product microparticle generated as a by-product upon polymerization in a by-product microparticle removing step, efficiently obtains a wet colored resin particle which has low moisture content (wet cake) by decreasing clogs caused at filter element in a dewatering step, enhances a drying efficiency (shorten the drying time) in a drying step, has an excellent productivity and a printing ability.
US07910279B2 Method of manufacturing aggregate particles and toner
A method of manufacturing aggregate particles capable of obtaining aggregate particles having high mechanical strength, small particle size, with narrow particle size distribution width by preventing interfusion of bubbles in the aggregate particles during stirring is provided. Aggregate particles are manufactured by stirring a resin particle slurry including resin particles dispersed in an aqueous medium and contained in a stirring vessel by a stirring section having a impeller and two or more screen members disposed so as to surround the impeller in the stirring vessel and each formed with a plurality of slits and aggregating the resin particles.
US07910273B2 Image forming method
An electrophotographic image forming method is disclosed. In the method electrostatic latent image is developed by a non-magnetic single-component developing system, in which a non-magnetic single-component developer is conveyed by a developer carrying member, the developer carrying member is contacted with a developer layer regulation member for regulating an amount of the developer at the surface of the developer carrying member, and a binder resin of the developer comprises a vinyl polymer having an acid value of from about 5 to about 30 mgKOH/g and a ratio of hydroxyl group value/acid values from about 0.3 to about 0.8.
US07910272B2 Dye-containing photosensitive composition, color filter using the same, and production method thereof
The present invention provides a dye-containing photosensitive composition that includes at least phthalocyanine, a photosensitive compound, and a transition metal complex of which the molar absorption coefficient ε in a visible light region is less than 5000.
US07910266B2 Pattern forming method and mask
Hole patterns are repeatedly arranged on a mask at a constant pitch in each of predetermined directions. In the predetermined directions, a first direction with the smallest pitch and a second direction with the second smaller pitch are specified. A Levenson phase shifter is formed corresponding to the hole patterns to cause the phases of transmitted light through the hole patterns adjacent to each other in the first direction to be opposite to each other. An exposure process is performed by two-point illumination which is adapted to improve the resolution property in the second direction.
US07910263B2 Electrode including a heteropoly acid additive for fuel cell, membrane-electrode assembly for fuel cell including same, and fuel cell system including the same
An electrode for a fuel cell includes an electrode substrate and a catalyst layer on the electrode substrate. The catalyst layer includes an active catalyst and a heteropoly acid additive including a heteropoly acid supported by an inorganic carrier.
US07910257B2 Fuel cell system and fuel cell vehicle
A fuel cell system according to the present invention includes a fuel cell; a fuel supply system for supplying a fuel gas to the fuel cell; an injector which drives a valve body with an electromagnetic driving force in a predetermined driving period to detach the valve body from a valve seat, whereby a gas state on the upstream side of the fuel supply system is adjusted to jet the gas to a downstream side; and a control device which controls the operation of the injector. The control device allows the injector to jet the gas with a jet flow rate of a predetermined jet flow rate or less in a case where the demanded amount of a power to be generated with respect to the fuel cell is the predetermined amount of the power to be generated or less, and the control device sets the driving frequency of the injector in accordance with the jet flow rate and the demanded amount of the power to be generated.
US07910254B2 Start-up method for fuel cell
A start-up method for a fuel cell system that includes a fuel cell that carries out power generation by the electrochemical reaction between a fuel gas and the oxygen gas in the air; a fuel gas discharge path and a fuel gas supply path that are connected to the fuel cell; a fuel gas circulation path in which the fuel gas discharge path merges with the fuel gas supply path; and a purge valve provided on the fuel gas circulation path in order to discharge the circulating fuel gas from the fuel gas circulation path. The method includes the steps of opening the purge valve at the same time that the fuel gas is supplied to the fuel cell and replacing the nitrogen gas that originates in the air and is present in the fuel gas circulation path by fuel gas; and closing the purge valve after the nitrogen gas in the fuel gas circulation path has been replaced by the fuel gas.
US07910251B2 Fuel cell system
A fuel cell system comprises: a fuel cell stack (100) where an anode (110) and a cathode (120) are arranged under a state that an electrolyte membrane is positioned therebetween; a fuel tank (300) for storing a fuel; a fuel circulation supply means (400) for circulation-supplying a fuel stored in the fuel tank (300) to the anode of the fuel cell stack; an air supply unit (200) connected to the cathode of the fuel cell stack (100) by an air supply line, for supplying oxygen, etc. to the cathode (120); a sensing unit (500) for measuring a concentration of at least one of fuels supplied to the anode (110) and a control unit for receiving a signal of the sensing unit (500) and informing replacement time of a fuel. According to this, a fuel usage is maximized by informing replacement time of a used fuel and a filter (450) for filtering impurity by detecting a fuel consumption degree and an impurity generation amount.
US07910249B2 Additive for nonaqueous electrolyte and secondary battery using the same
Disclosed is an electrolyte for a battery, which comprises: (a) an electrolyte salt; (b) a solvent for electrolyte; and (c) a compound represented by the following formula 1: wherein R is a halogen atom, or a halogen-substituted or non-substituted C1˜C10 alkyl group or alkenyl group. An electrode comprising a passivation layer partially or totally formed on a surface thereof, wherein the passivation layer comprises a compound represented by the following Formula 1 or a chemical reaction product thereof, and a secondary battery using the electrolyte and/or the electrode are also disclosed. The compound can improve the initial charge/discharge efficiency and cycle life characteristics of a secondary battery, and can inhibit a battery from swelling under high-temperature storage conditions.
US07910248B2 Aromatic-polyether-type ion-conductive ultrahigh molecular weight polymer, intermediate therefor, and process for producing these
An aromatic-polyether-type ion conductive polymer membrane having improved mechanical strength is provided.An aromatic-polyether-type ion-conductive ultrahigh molecular weight polymer having an ion exchange capacity of 0.1 meq/g or higher and a structure comprising an aromatic-polyether-type ultrahigh molecular weight polymer in which an acid group introduced, said aromatic-polyether-type ultrahigh molecular weight polymer having at least one structural unit selected from those represented by the following formulas (1) and (2) and the sum of the number a of the structural unit of the formula (1) and the number b of the structural unit of the formula (2) being 2 or larger: Ar1—Om—Ar1  (1) Ar2—On—Ar2  (2).
US07910247B2 Nonaqueous electrolyte battery
A nonaqueous electrolyte battery includes a case, a nonaqueous electrolyte provided in the case, a positive electrode provided in the case, and a negative electrode provided in the case, including a negative electrode active material and an electronic conductor containing a carbonaceous material, wherein a negative electrode working potential is nobler at least 1 V than a lithium electrode potential, and the carbonaceous material has a spacing (d002) of (002) plane of 0.344 nm or more and 0.352 nm or less, and a crystallite size (Lc) in the C-axis direction of 10 nm or less.
US07910242B2 Nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery
In a nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery in which an electrode plate group including a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate which have a positive electrode mixture layer formed on a positive electrode current collector to contain a positive electrode active material and a negative electrode mixture layer formed on a negative electrode current collector to contain a negative electrode active material, respectively, and are spirally wound or stacked with a separator interposed therebetween is encapsulated in a battery exterior packaging body with an electrolyte, the battery exterior packaging body includes a gas releasing valve for releasing gas in the battery exterior packaging body to the outside when a gas pressure in the battery exterior packaging body reaches a working pressure and is formed to be deformable where the gas pressure in the battery exterior packaging body is lower than the working pressure of the gas releasing valve.
US07910233B2 Magnetic recording medium for thermally assisted recording
A magnetic recording medium for use in a thermally assisted recording system is disclosed. The magnetic recording medium comprises at least a magnetic layer, a protective layer and a lubricant layer formed on a nonmagnetic substrate, wherein a lubricant of the lubricant layer exhibits such a heat resistance that an amount of volatilization when the magnetic layer is heated to a temperature not lower than a temperature Tw is less than 1% with respect to an initial amount of the lubricant in an unheated condition. The present invention addresses a problem of the heat resistance performance of the lubricant for use in magnetic recording media and provides a magnetic recording medium exhibiting high heat resistance.
US07910230B2 High resistance gypsum parts and preparation method to obtain these parts
The preparation of gypsum parts (dihydrate calcium sulfate) with high mechanical strength is obtained with the aid of water layers with nanometric thickness. Calcium sulfate is used, dihydrate as well as hemihydrate, to obtain parts from these two materials, pure or mixed, especially to use in construction work, where the parts are prepared by compressing their slightly humidified powders.
US07910227B2 Light emitting device having dopants in a light emitting layer
A light emitting device having an anode and a cathode provided on a substrate, and an organic light emitting layer between the anode and the cathode, where the organic light emitting layer includes a light emitting material and first and second dopants for improving the dispersability thereof. As the first dopant, there is employed a phosphorescent dopant. The amount of the second dopant is greater than the amount of the first dopant.
US07910222B2 Polymerizable composition for forming optical device, optical device and method for producing optical device
A polymerizable composition for forming an optical device, which comprises a polymerizable monomer of the following formula (1) and a polymerizable monomer of the following formula (2). Using the composition makes it possible to produce an optical device which has a high light transmittability and keeps a reduced transmission loss even in wet. wherein R1 and R2 each are H or D; R3 is H, D, CH3, CD3 or a halogen atom; R4is an alkyl group having from 2 to 8 carbon atoms and at least partly substituted with a fluorine atom, wherein R1 and R2 each are H or D; R3 is H, D, CH3, CD3 or a halogen atom; X1 to X5 each are H, D, a halogen atom or CF3, and at least one of X1 to X5 is a halogen atom or CF3.
US07910221B2 Biocompatible titanium alloys
Methods and compositions are disclosed for coating a biocompatible medical implant with a surface layer having antioxidant activity. In various embodiments, a surface layer described herein destroys the oxidative activity of a reactive oxygen species (ROS) upon contact. An ROS can be, for example, an ROS generated by neutrophils in vivo. In various embodiments, a surface layer comprises a titanium oxide layer that can comprise a rutile, an anatase or a perovskite crystal structure, and can include defects comprising Ti(III). In some embodiments, the oxide layer can further comprise a dopant such as niobium. In some embodiments, methods for forming a surface layer on a biocompatible medical implant having antioxidant activity are disclosed.
US07910220B2 Surfaces and coatings for the removal of carbon dioxide
Apparatus suited for removing carbon dioxide from gases are disclosed. The apparatus may employ bodies having a photocatalytic film. Associated methods and compositions are also disclosed.
US07910217B2 Wear resistant coatings for race land regions of bearing materials
Embodiments of a coated substrate (for example, a coated race land region of a roller bearing element) comprise a metallic substrate, a ceramic underlayer comprising a nitride, a carbide, a carbonitride, a boride, or combinations thereof disposed over the metallic substrate, and a mixed layer comprising titanium nitride and silver disposed over the ceramic underlayer; and an overlayer disposed over the mixed layer.
US07910214B2 Molded ferrite sheet, sintered ferrite substrate and antenna module
The present invention relates to a molded ferrite sheet having opposing surfaces and a thickness in a range of 30 μm to 430 μm, at least one surface of said opposing surfaces having the following surface roughness characteristics (a) to (c): (a) a center line average roughness is in a range of 170 nm to 800 nm, (b) a maximum height is in a range of 3 μm to 10 μm, and (c) an area occupancy rate of cross-sectional area taken along a horizontal plane at a depth of 50% of the maximum height in a square of side 100 μm is in a range of 10 to 80%.
US07910212B1 Concrete floor finishing system and method
An initial surface is provided. An overlay of colored grout is provided. The colored grout is on the initial surface. In this manner an intermediate surface is created. An acid stain is provided. The acid stain is on the intermediate surface. A two part clear epoxy resin is provided. The epoxy resin is provided on the intermediate surface. In this manner an exterior surface is created.
US07910210B2 Method of producing a layer arrangement, method of producing an electrical component, layer arrangement, and electrical component
In a method of producing a layer arrangement, a substantially carbon-comprising, electrically conductive carbon layer is formed. A protective layer is formed on the carbon layer. An electrically insulating layer is formed on the protective layer, the protective layer protecting the carbon layer from damage during the formation of the electrically insulating layer. Furthermore, a layer arrangement is provided, having a substantially carbon-comprising, electrically conductive carbon layer, a protective layer formed on the carbon layer, and an electrically insulating layer formed on the protective layer, the protective layer being used to avoid damage to the carbon layer by the electrically insulating layer.
US07910199B1 Metal filled porous carbon
A porous carbon scaffold with a surface and pores, the porous carbon scaffold containing a primary metal and a secondary metal, where the primary metal is a metal that does not wet the surface of the pores of the carbon scaffold but wets the surface of the secondary metal, and the secondary metal is interspersed between the surface of the pores of the carbon scaffold and the primary metal.
US07910195B2 Absorbent article with lotion-containing topsheet
A sanitary napkin comprising a topsheet having a body-facing side and comprising a plurality of discrete tufts of fibrous material. The topsheet has a lotion composition applied to at least a portion of the body-facing side thereof. An absorbent core is in fluid communication with the topsheet, the absorbent core having an average thickness of less than about 10 mm, and a free absorbent capacity of from about 4 to about 125 grams per gram.
US07910191B1 Method for forming light-transmitting cover layer for optical recording medium
A method for manufacturing an optical recording medium includes forming a light-transmitting cover layer over an information layer by depositing a predetermined volume of a liquid resin on the information layer. The method may further include forming a disc rib over an outer periphery of the information bearing side of the substrate, to stop flow of the deposited resin beyond the outer disc periphery. An optical recording medium formed through such a method includes a disc rib delimiting an outer diameter of the light-transmitting cover layer.
US07910190B2 Thin film for reflection film or for semi-transparent reflection film, sputtering target and optical recording medium
A thin film for a reflection film or a semi-transparent reflection film, which has a compound phase comprising at least one selected from the group consisting of a nitride, an oxide, a complex oxide, a nitroxide, a carbide, a sulfide, a chloride, a silicide, a fluoride, a boride, a hydride, a phosphide, a selenide and a telluride of gallium, palladium or copper, dispersed in a matrix formed of silver or a silver alloy. The compound phase in the thin film may include at least one compound selected from the group consisting of nitride, oxide, complex oxide, nitroxide, carbide, sulfide, chloride, silicide, fluoride, boride, hydride, phosphide, selenide and telluride of silver. The thin film of the present invention minimizes the deterioration of the reflectance even after a long period of use, and can prolong the life of various devices which use the thin film as a reflection film, such as an optical recording medium and a display. The thin film can be also applied to a semi-reflective/semi-transparent film used in the optical recording medium.
US07910189B2 Photo sheet assembly with removable adhesive portions
A sheet assembly that includes a first facing sheet, a second facing sheet, and an adhesive material disposed between the first and second facing sheets. A plurality of shapes is cut within a remaining portion of the first facing sheet, and each of the plurality of shapes defines a removable portion disposed over a portion of the second facing sheet. Upon removal of the removable portion the adhesive material is exposed and a photograph or other item can be adhered to the sheet assembly. The remaining portion of the sheet assembly includes a printable area for writing notes or comments about the adhered photo.
US07910182B2 Ink-jet receiver having improved gloss
The use of a boric acid, borate or derivate and/or salt thereof in a subbing layer coated onto a non resin-coated support beneath an upper layer comprising a binder and an inorganic particulate material such as fumed silica and an under layer between the upper layer and the subbing layer, which under layer comprises a binder and an inorganic particulate material such as calcium carbonate, increases the gloss of an ink jet receiver formed thereby whilst maintaining good ink absorption, good image density and minimizing puddling and associated coalescence, and where the receiver otherwise suffers from surface-cracking, decreases the propensity to cracking.
US07910174B2 Apparatus and method of fabricating flat panel display device
An apparatus for fabricating a flat panel display device includes a substrate on which a picture display section is formed and a stage on which the substrate is loaded. A dispenser applies a sealant along an outer line of the picture display section in the substrate. A light detector emits light toward the sealant and detects the amount of reflected light in real-time. A controller detects broken lines in the sealant in accordance with a signal supplied from the light detector and controls the dispenser so as to re-apply the sealant to spaces in the broken line in which the sealant is not present.
US07910168B2 Method for forming a film on a substrate
A method for forming a film on a substrate includes steps of: blending precursor, dissolvent, de-ionized water and catalyst in proportion to make sol solution; standing the sol solution for a period of to form gel solution; mixing the gel solution with diluent in proportion to form the coating solution; and coating the coating solution onto the substrate and then drying the coating solution to form a film on the substrate. The ratio of the gel solution and the diluent in the coating solution can be controlled to change the thickness of the film formed on the substrate. The ratio of the gel solution and the diluent is adjusted, the thickness of the film is adjusted according to the ratio to realize controlling the thickness of the film, therefore, the method for forming the film on the substrate is simply, and the thickness of the film can be controlled exactly, so the method can be used in industry field.
US07910162B2 Grout for laying paver stones and method of use
A dry, non-shrink composition which is admixed with water to cure into a hard but flexible and non-shrinking grout for laying paver stones, the dry composition comprising ingredients by percent weight of: 94-96% silica sand; 2-4% polymer powder mixture of vinyl acetate, and a vinyl ester in equal proportions, jointly polymerized using ethane; 0.5-1.5% cement; and 0.5-1.5% colorant. The dry composition is swept into joints between paver stones and water is then added to hydrate the dry mixture which forms a grouting material with interlocking physical joints to a porous material such as travertine.
US07910160B2 Thin-film magnetic head structure adapted to manufacture a thin-film head having a base magnetic pole part, a york magnetic pole part, and an intervening insulative film
A thin-film magnetic head structure has a configuration adapted to manufacture a thin-film magnetic head configured such that a main magnetic pole layer including a magnetic pole end part on a side of a medium-opposing surface opposing a recording medium, a write shield layer opposing the magnetic pole end part so as to form a recording gap layer on the medium-opposing surface side, and a thin-film coil wound about the write shield layer or main magnetic pole layer are laminated. The main magnetic pole layer includes a base magnetic pole part comprising the magnetic pole end part and a base depression distanced farther from the medium-opposing surface than the magnetic pole end part, and an embedded magnetic pole part buried in the base depression and joined to the base magnetic pole part. The thin-film magnetic head structure includes a yoke magnetic pole part joined to the base magnetic pole part and embedded magnetic pole part at a position distanced farther from the medium-opposing surface than the recording gap layer, and an intervening insulative film disposed between the embedded magnetic pole part and yoke magnetic pole part at a position distanced farther from the medium-opposing surface than the recording gap layer.
US07910158B2 Method for fabricating an array of electrode and electrolyte materials for use in solid oxide fuel cells
The present invention provides high-throughput systems and methods for the fabrication and evaluation of electrode and electrolyte materials for solid oxide fuel cells. The present invention includes systems and methods for synthesizing and optimizing the performance of electrodes and electrode-electrolyte combinations and utilizes small-scale techniques to perform such optimization based on chemical composition and variable processing. Advantageously, rapid device performance systems and methods coupled with structural and surface systems and methods allow for an increased discovery rate of new materials for solid oxide fuel cells.
US07910157B2 Substrate processing method and program
In the present invention, an insulating material is applied onto a substrate in a coating treatment unit to form a coating insulating film. The substrate is heated in the heating processing unit, whereby the coating insulating film is hardened partway. A brush is then pressed against the front surface of the coating insulating film in a planarization unit and moved along the front surface of the coating insulating film, thereby planarizing the coating insulating film. The substrate is then heated to completely harden the coating insulating film. According to the present invention, the coating film can be planarized without using the CMP technology.
US07910156B2 Method of making circuitized substrate with selected conductors having solder thereon
A method of making a circuitized substrate in which conductors are formed in such a manner that selected ones of the conductors include solder while others do not and are thus adapted for receiving a different form of connection (e.g., wire-bond) than the solder covered conductors. In one embodiment, the solder may be applied in molten form by immersing the substrate within a bath of the solder while in another the solder may be deposited using a screening procedure.
US07910147B2 Preparation process of green tea extract
An object is to provide a preparation process of a green tea extract having a high non-polymer catechin concentration and tasting good with less bitterness and less astringency. The present invention relates to a preparation process of a green tea extract, which comprises subjecting an enzyme-inactivated raw tea leaves to CTC processing, drying the tea leaves until the water content thereof becomes 20 wt. % or less, and extracting the tea leaves while setting the weight ratio of an extraction solvent to the tea leaves to be extracted to 30 or less.
US07910146B2 Tool to facilitate the consumption of ingestible substances
Tool (1) to facilitate the consumption of ingestible substances, provided with a container (2) adapted to store an additional ingestible product (3), such as a food flavoring or a pharmaceutical product, and provided with an end (4) suitable to facilitate the handling of the ingestible substance (3) together with the additional product once this has been added to the ingestible substance (3), the container (2) comprising at least one end portion (5) constituted by a flexible, tearable material whereby the container (2) is joined to the tool body (6), designed to be torn when the container (2) is separated from the tool body (6), being able to pour its additional product content into the ingestible substance (3).
US07910138B2 Use of a polyphenol for the treatment of a cancerous or precancerous lesion of the skin
A method for treating cancerous or pre-cancerous lesions of the skin by administering a pharmaceutically effective amount of a polyphenol to a patient as well as to the production of a medicament thereto is described herein.
US07910135B2 Hydrogel wound dressing and biomaterials formed in situ and their uses
The present invention relates to a method of forming shape-retentive and shape-conforming aggregate wound dressings and biomaterials composed of gel nanoparticles and wound or bodily fluid in which the aggregates are held together by non-covalent bond physical forces such as, without limitation, hydrophobic-hydrophilic interactions and hydrogen bonds. The method comprises introducing a dry powder of gel nanoparticles to a wound site in which the nanoparticles absorb some of the blood or wound exudate and coalesce in situ into the claimed shape-retentive aggregate dressing. The method also comprises introducing the dry nanoparticle powder in or on a wet bodily tissue in vivo to form the claimed shape-retentive biomaterial. In addition, the method also comprises incorporating biomedical agents to produce medicated aggregate dressings or biomaterials for a variety of medical applications. This invention also relates to uses of the method of formation of the shape-retentive aggregates of gel nanoparticles.
US07910131B2 Method of treating seizures using modified release formulations of oxcarbazepine
Controlled-release preparations of oxcarbazepine and derivatives thereof for once-a-day administration are disclosed. The inventive compositions comprise solubility- and/or release enhancing agents to provide tailored drug release profiles, preferably sigmoidal release profiles. Methods of treatment comprising the inventive compositions are also disclosed.
US07910124B2 Load bearing biocompatible device
Implantable biomaterials, particularly hydrogel substrates with porous surfaces, and methods for enhancing the compatibility of biomaterials with living tissue, and for causing physical attachment between biomaterials and living tissues are provided. Also provided are implants suitable for load-bearing surfaces in hard tissue repair, replacement, or augmentation, and to methods of their use. One embodiment of the invention relates to an implantable spinal disc prosthesis.
US07910123B2 Methods of treating a trauma or disorder of the knee joint by local administration and sustained-delivery of a biological agent
Methods and apparatus of providing a subject with post-operative, sustained-release of a biological agent within a synovial joint is disclosed. These methods involve securing a depot containing the biological agent to a ligament, tendon, muscle within the joint to provide sustained-release of the agent while allowing for normal joint articulation. This methodology may be utilized to provide for sustained-release of a biological agent useful in treating various traumas and disorders of the joint. Such biological agents include antagonists of inflammation-related proteins, such as TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, NF-κB, High Mobility Group Box 1 (HMG-B1), IL-2, IL-15 and steroidal and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. Other biological agents include anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-10, IL-4, IL-13, and TGF-β. The biological agents also include osteogenic and cartilage producing growth factors such as, but not limited to, BMP-2, BMP-4, BMP-6, BMP-7, BMP-8, and MIA CD-RAP. Finally, the biological agents include siRNA and/or therapeutic antibodies.
US07910118B2 Skin treatment
A solution for the treatment of human feet. The solution includes an amount of each of the following components: 1) magnesium sulfate, 2) water, 3) methylparaben, 4) isopropyl alcohol, 5) methyl salicylate, and 6) malic acid. In combination, these components form an aqueous solution, which can be used as part of a footbath for soaking, or which can be applied directly to the foot using an applicator, such as a wipe.
US07910117B2 Vaccine
The invention relates to a vaccine for the treatment of disease caused by Neisseria, the vaccine including one or more immunogenic components for Neisseria serogroups, as well as antibodies to the immunogenic components and methods of preventing and treating Neisseria infections. The immunogens are based on elements of the inner core lipopolysaccharide.
US07910110B2 Bacteriophage-mediated immunisation against hepatitis
The present invention relates to vaccines comprising a bacteriophage which has been engineered to express an immunogenic protein/peptide and wherein the surface of the bacteriophage has not been modified to contain proteins/peptides designed to target the phage to receptors on the surface of specific cell types.
US07910108B2 Sheddase inhibitors combined with CD30-binding immunotherapeutics for the treatment of CD30 positive diseases
The present invention is directed to pharmaceutical methods for the treatment of CD30 positive diseases, such as Hodgkin's disease, by administration of a combination of at least one sheddase inhibitor and at least one anti-CD30 immunotherapeutic.
US07910106B2 Combinations of SAP depleting agents and anti-SAP antibodies
The invention describes the use of an antibody specific for serum amyloid P component, for the treatment or prophylaxis of amyloidosis, and the use of a compound which depletes serum amyloid P component from the circulation in combination with an antibody specific for serum amyloid P component.
US07910101B2 Melanocortin receptor binding mimetibodies, compositions, methods and uses
Melanocortin receptor binding mimetibody polypeptides are disclosed. Polynucleotides encoding these polypeptides, cells comprising these polynucleotides or expressing the mimetibodies, and methods of making and using the forgoing are also disclosed.
US07910097B2 Common lymphatic endothelial and vascular endothelial receptor-1 (CLEVER-1) and uses thereof
A novel protein Common Lymphatic Endothelial and Vascular Endothelial Receptor-1 (CLEVER-1) is described. CLEVER-1 mediates leukocyte and malignant cell binding to vascular and lymphoid endothelial cells. CLEVER-1 is the first protein that has been reported to mediate both influx into and efflux from the lymph nodes. Also provided are methods of treating inflammation and preventing metastasis of malignant cells by providing an inhibitor of CLEVER-1 binding.
US07910086B1 Nanoparticles for protein drug delivery
The invention discloses a pharmaceutical composition of bioactive nanoparticles composed of chitosan, poly-glutamic acid, and a bioactive agent for oral delivery. The chitosan-based nanoparticles are characterized with a positive surface charge and enhanced permeability for oral drug delivery.
US07910083B2 Coloured diamond
A diamond layer of single crystal CVD diamond which is coloured, preferably which has a fancy colour, and which has a thickness of greater than 1 mm.
US07910079B2 Method and an apparatus for removing carbon dioxide from sulphur dioxide containing flue gases
A method and an apparatus for removing carbon dioxide (CO2) from sulphur dioxide containing (SO2) flue gases, wherein the flue gases are washed with washing solution in a scrubber, which comprises at least two washing stages. In the first washing stage the flue gases are washed for removing the sulphur dioxide in the flue gases and after that in the second washing stage for removing carbon dioxide (CO2). Sodium carbonate solution (Na2CO3) is used as washing solution in both the first and the second washing stages.
US07910077B2 Configurations and methods for SOx removal in oxygen-containing gases
Sulfur oxides are removed from an oxygen-containing acid gas in configurations and methods in which oxygen is removed from the acid gas using reducing gases at relatively high temperature. The so treated acid gas is then fed to a direct reduction reactor in which the sulfur species are converted to elemental sulfur. Contemplated configurations are particularly effective and economically attractive as they are generally not limited by reaction equilibrium as present in a Claus reaction and do not require solvent and solvent-associated equipment.
US07910063B2 Drift compensated magnetic permeability detector
A device for detection of magnetic permeability μ or, alternatively, relative magnetic permeability μr or, alternatively, relative magnetic susceptibility (μr−1) of a sample, wherein said device contains a sample chamber and at least two coils, one coil surrounding said sample chamber and one coil placed so as to be in thermal contact by being physically connected to the material which constitutes the sample chamber, but without surrounding the cavity of the sample chamber, said sample chamber having at least one opening for introduction of a sample or a sample container holding a sample, said device also provided with an electronic circuit which measures the difference in inductance between the two coils.
US07910058B2 Chromophore and polymer capable of detecting the presence of various neurotoxins and method of use
Applicants have produced a chromophore and a polymer that are highly sensitive to the presence of various agents, including organophosphates, pesticides, neurotoxins, metal ions, some explosives, and biological toxins. The detection is accomplished by detecting a change in the fluorescence characteristics of the chromophore or polymer when in the presence of the agent to be detected. The chromophore and polymer may be incorporated into sensors of various types, and they are adaptable for potential field use in areas where detection of these types of agents is desired.
US07910042B2 Capillary imprinting technique
The present invention provides a method for patterning a substrate with a template having a mold that features positioning conformable material between the substrate and the mold and filling a volume defined between the mold and the substrate with the conformable material through capillary action between the conformable material and one of the mold and the substrate. Thereafter, the conformable material is solidified. Specifically, the distance between the mold and the substrate is controlled to a sufficient degree to attenuate, if not avoid, compressive forces between the mold and the substrate. As a result, upon initial contact of the mold with the conformable material, spontaneous capillary filling of the volume between the mold and the substrate occurs.
US07910037B2 Fuel cell manufacturing method and system
A fuel cell manufacturing method is provided by which an unbroken strip of sheet material is sent through a molding process, an MEA assembly process and a modularization process, and is separated into individual modules in a batch process. In the molding process, separators are sequentially molded on the strip of sheet material, and a separator strip is produced in which the separators are connected together by runners. In the MEA assembly process and the modularization process, MEAs are sequentially assembled on the separator strip in which a series of the separators are connected together by the runners, and a module strip is produced in which a series of the modules are connected together by the runners. In the batch process, the series of modules is separated into the individual modules by cutting and removing the runners from the module strip.
US07910033B2 Method for manufacturing image display device
A method for manufacturing an image display device includes the step of forming a cured resin layer 15 by interposing a photo-curable resin composition between a base 2 including an image display unit such as a liquid crystal display panel 8 and a light-transmitting protection member 3 including a light-shielding member 5 and then photo-curing the photo-curable resin composition. In this method, a resin composition having a curing shrinkage ratio of 5% or less, yielding a cured product having a storage elastic modulus at 25° C. of 1.0×107 Pa or less, and forming the cured resin layer having a light transmittance of 90% or more in the visible range is used as the photo-curable resin composition.
US07910024B2 Corrosion inhibition compositions and methods for using the same
Compositions and methods are described for inhibiting corrosion of corrodible metals present in contact with water in cooling water and other water storage systems. The compositions include concentrated stannous salts and agents to solubilize such salts.
US07910017B2 Low temperature heat transfer fluid composition comprising alkylbenzene and dibutyl ether
A two component low temperature heat transfer composition comprising 18% to 76% by volume of an ether component and 82% to 24% by volume of an alkylbenzene component which composition transfers thermal energy to itself from a material which is to be cooled and maintains a prolonged liquid phase in the temperature range from room temperature of about 68° F. to a very cold −175° F.; said composition being continually rejuvenated by exposure in alternating cycles to cryogenic or refrigerant materials, such as liquid nitrogen which removes thermal energy from the ether alkylbenzene composition which is maintained in a prolonged liquid phase throughout said temperature range which makes it suitable for use in very cold applications.
US07910014B2 Method and system for improving wet chemical bath process stability and productivity in semiconductor manufacturing
A chemical processing bath and system used in semiconductor manufacturing utilizes a dynamic spiking model that essentially constantly monitors chemical concentration in the processing bath and adds fresh chemical on a regular basis to maintain chemical concentrations at desirable levels. Etch rates and etch selectivities are maintained at desirable levels and contamination from undesirable precipitation is avoided. The system and method automatically compare concentration levels to a plurality of control limits associated with various technologies and identify the technology or technologies that may undergo processing.
US07910013B2 Method of controlling a chamber based upon predetermined concurrent behavior of selected plasma parameters as a function of source power, bias power and chamber pressure
For each one of plural plasma parameters, such as ion density, wafer voltage, etch rate, wafer current, a relevant surface of constant value is fetched from a memory. The relevant surface of constant value corresponds to a user-selected value of one of the plasma parameters, the surface being defined in a space of which each one of plural, chamber parameters (e.g., source power, bias power and chamber pressure) is a dimension. An intersection of these relevant surfaces is found, the intersection corresponding to a target value of source power, bias power and chamber pressure. The source power, the bias power and the chamber pressure, respectively, are set to their corresponding target values.
US07910010B2 Ink jet head having an electrostatic actuator and manufacturing method of the same
An inkjet head having an electrostatic actuator and a manufacturing method of the same are disclosed. The inkjet head having an electrostatic actuator, comprising a stator, on which is formed a plurality of comb pattern shaped first protrusion parts and second protrusion parts in both directions, and a rotor consisting of a first component and a second component, the ends of which join with the diaphragm, wherein a third protrusion part is formed on the first component, facing the first protrusion parts and meshing with the first protrusion parts without contact; and a fourth protrusion part is formed on the second component, facing the second protrusion parts and meshing with the second protrusion parts without contact, may decrease the size of the head composition and may increase the electrostatic force so that a large displacement may be obtained with little voltage to increase the ink discharge pressure.
US07910003B2 Polysulfone and poly(N-vinyl lactam) polymer alloy and fiber and filter materials made of the alloy
A polymer alloy has been developed comprising a polysulfone and a vinyl lactam polymer. The resulting alloy has excellent thermal characteristics and even in the presence of substantial quantities in vinyl lactam polymers, has solvent resistance to both organic and aqueous solvent materials. The materials, when dissolved in solvents, can be spun from a variety of solvents into a variety of useful fiber materials. The resulting fine fiber, microfiber and nanofiber materials have excellent thermal and chemical resistance for a variety of fiber applications. The polymer alloys of the invention can be spun into nanofiber mats that can act as a filtration media and can also be combined into conventional substrate materials for fabrication into filter structures.
US07910001B2 Arrangement of denitrification reactors in a recirculating aquaculture system
The present invention relates to a novel arrangement of denitrification reactors for removal of nitrate compounds in a recirculating aquaculture system. The novel arrangement of an aquaculture system of the present invention includes positioning one or more anaerobic denitrification reactors upstream of aerobic nitrification and degassing processes. One aspect of the present invention includes a flow of aqueous medium from aquatic species rearing tanks towards one or more denitrification reactors. Another aspect of the present invention includes flow of aqueous medium from aquatic species rearing tanks to a solids removing filter or mechanical filtration means for removal of solid waste matter or biomass prior to flow of aqueous medium towards one or more denitrification reactors. In a sequence of components comprising a system of the present invention, treated and denitrified aqueous medium exiting one or more denitrification reactors is directed towards a solids removing filter wherein treated and denitrified aqueous medium combines with untreated aqueous medium. Combined untreated aqueous medium and denitrified aqueous medium exits a solids removing filter and is directed towards an aerobic nitrification unit. Aqueous medium exiting the aerobic nitrification unit is degassed and oxygenated and returned to aquatic species rearing tanks. A system of the present invention which utilizes denitrification reactors positioned upstream of aerobic nitrification has advantages over existing aquaculture systems which use denitrification in reduction of nitrate concentrations. This results in greater mitigation of water chemistries and compounds which are harmful to aquatic species and more efficient use and conservation of water resources.
US07909999B2 Filter assembly
Disclosed is a filter assembly including a filter cartridge including a housing, a filter provided inside the housing, and a cartridge connection portion provided at an upper portion of the housing, a head portion including a head connection portion to be coupled to the cartridge connection portion so that the filter cartridge can be attached and detached, a water inlet which introduces water to the filter cartridge, and a water outlet which discharges the water filtered by the filter cartridge, the head portion including a filter attaching and detaching lever which is movable between a first position, at which the head connection portion and the filter cartridge connection portion are coupled to each other, and a second position, at which the head connection portion and the filter cartridge connection portion are separated from each other, and can be supported by the head portion.
US07909993B2 Centrifugal fraction collection system and method
A centrifugal fraction collection system including a rotating carrier for holding at least one sample collection container and inducing a centrifugal force, a guide disposed on the rotating carrier, and a flexible eluant tube disposed over the rotating carrier and through the guide for receiving a flow of eluant having volatile and non-volatile components and directing the flow of eluant into at least one sample collection container wherein the centrifugal force separates the non-volatile and volatile components based on their respective densities and collects the non-volatile components in at least one sample collection container.
US07909986B2 Reduction of gas phase reduced nitrogen species in partial burn FCC processes
Reduced emissions of gas phase reduced nitrogen species in the off gas of an FCC regenerator operated in a partial or incomplete mode of combustion is achieved by contacting the off gas with an oxidative catalyst/additive composition having the ability to reduce gas phase nitrogen species to molecular nitrogen and to oxidize CO under catalytic cracking conditions. The oxidative catalyst/additive composition is used in an amount less than the amount necessary to prevent afterburn. Fluidizable particles of the oxidative catalyst/additives are circulated throughout the partial or incomplete burn FCC unit along with the FCC catalyst inventory. The flue gas having a reduced content of gas phase reduced nitrogen species and NOx is passed to a downstream CO boiler, preferably a low NOx CO boiler. In the CO boiler, as CO is oxidized to CO2, a reduced amount of gas phase reduced nitrogen species is oxidized to NOx, thereby providing an increase in the overall reduction of NOx emitted into the environment.
US07909974B2 Layer composition of an electrowetting system
A layer composition of an electrowetting system with a first electrode layer, an insulator layer on the first electrode layer, and a fluid layer over the insulator layer, wherein the fluid layer comprises at least two immiscible fluids which, under the influence of an applied voltage, reversibly change their wetting behavior of a surface allocated to the insulator layer, wherein the insulator layer being at least in part built of a material with a permittivity of ∈r≧20. The fluid layer is adjacent to at least one layer being repellent for the at least one of the fluids. On the surface of the repellent layer pointing away from the fluid layer is provided an adhesion enhancing layer before the subsequent layer.
US07909971B2 Microfluidic electrochemical reactors
A microfluidic electrochemical reactor includes an electrode and one or more microfluidic channels on the electrode, where the microfluidic channels are covered with a membrane containing a gas permeable polymer. The distance between the electrode and the membrane is less than 500 micrometers. The microfluidic electrochemical reactor can provide for increased reaction rates in electrochemical reactions using a gaseous reactant, as compared to conventional electrochemical cells. Microfluidic electrochemical reactors can be incorporated into devices for applications such as fuel cells, electrochemical analysis, microfluidic actuation, pH gradient formation.
US07909968B2 Apparatus and method for the electrolysis of water
An electrolysis apparatus for water is disclosed. The apparatus comprises an enclosure, a first electrode disposed within the enclosure, a second electrode disposed within the enclosure, and at least one electromagnetic energy radiator disposed within the enclosure. The apparatus further comprises a power source disposed external to the enclosure, where that power source is interconnected with the first electrode such that the first electrode comprises a cathode, and where the power source is interconnected with the second electrode such that the second electrode comprises an anode. The apparatus further comprises at least one oscillator disposed external to the enclosure, where each oscillator is interconnected to a different electromagnetic energy radiator.
US07909965B2 Shoe press belt
Disclosed is a shoe press belt (10) which comprises a reinforcing fibrous base material (6) embedded in a polyurethane layer, and has an outer circumference layer (2a) and an inner circumference layer (2b) each formed with a polyurethane. The polyurethane layer constituting the outer circumference layer (2a) comprises a polyurethane which is cured by the reaction of an urethane prepolymer (A) with a curing agent mixture (B). The urethane prepolymer (A) is produced by reacting an isocyanate compound selected from p-phenylene-diisocyanate and 4,4′-methylenebis(phenylisocyanate) with a polytetramethylene glycol and has an isocyanate group at its terminal. The curing agent mixture (B) comprises 1,4-butanediol and an aromatic polyamine having an active hydrogen group (H). The shoe press belt has excellent wear resistance, cracking resistance and bending fatigue resistance.
US07909950B2 Method for manufacturing an ultra soft high carbon hot-rolled steel sheet
The present invention provides an ultra soft high carbon hot-rolled steel sheet. The ultra soft high carbon hot-rolled steel sheet contains 0.2% to 0.7% of C, 0.01% to 1.0% of Si, 0.1% to 1.0% of Mn, 0.03% or less of P, 0.035% or less of S, 0.08% or less of Al, 0.01% or less of N, and the balance being Fe and incidental impurities and further contains 0.0010% to 0.0050% of B and 0.05% to 0.30% of Cr in some cases. In the texture of the steel sheet, an average ferrite grain diameter is 20 μm or more, a volume ratio of ferrite grains having a grain diameter of 10 μm or more is 80% or more, and an average carbide grain diameter is in the range of 0.10 to less than 2.0 μm. In addition, the steel sheet is manufactured by the steps, after rough rolling, performing finish rolling at a reduction ratio of 10% or more and at a finish temperature of (Ar3−20° C.) or more in a final pass, then performing first cooling within 2 seconds after the finish rolling to a cooling stop temperature of 600° C. or less at a cooling rate of more than 120° C./sec, then performing second cooling so that the steel thus processed is held at 600° C. or less, then performing coiling at 580° C. or less, followed by pickling, and then performing spheroidizing annealing at a temperature in the range of 680° C. to the Ac1 transformation point.
US07909941B2 Water-conducting household appliance and method for the operation thereof
A dishwasher includes at least one substantially closed water circuit in which rinsing liquid is circulated according to a program control unit, the rinsing liquid being conveyed through a filter element while circulating in order to filter out dirt. Another water circuit is provided through which the rinsing liquid is circulated according to the program control unit when the filter element is covered with dirt in order to cause the filter element to be cleaned.
US07909939B2 Humidity reducing exhaust duct for dishwasher
A vent system for a dishwasher provides a mixing chamber receiving high humidity air from a downdraft dishwasher vent system or the like and mixes this air with dry air before discharging it from the dishwasher to reduce the humidity of the discharged air moderating condensation problems.
US07909937B2 Process for water stripping of photoreceptors
The presently disclosed embodiments relate generally to methods for the removal of coatings from an imaging member for use in electrostatographic, including digital, apparatuses. More particularly, the embodiments pertain to a method for removing at least one electrophotographic imaging layer from an electrophotographic imaging member using ultra-high pressure water.
US07909932B2 Mask, mask manufacturing method, film forming method, electro-optic device manufacturing method, and electronic apparatus
A mask includes: a base plate having an opening; a chip having an aperture pattern positioned at the opening in the base plate; a plug detachably arranged to the base plate; and a joining member joining the chip and the plug.
US07909909B2 Method of production of secondary steel based on scrap
With the production of the secondary steel based on scrap, wherein the scrap (10) is fed in a scrap preheater (2) through a charging device (1), is preheated there and, finally, is brought into a smelting unit (3) and is melted there with primary energy only, the process gases (19), which leave the smelting unit (3), are not used for directly preheating the scrap (10) but are rather used indirectly by heating a gaseous preheatable medium, e.g., air (18) or inert gas, so that energetic, fluidic, and spatial decoupling of preheating and melting and of post-combustion and preheating is achieved.
US07909907B1 Methods for high volume production of nanostructured materials
A system and method for high volume production of nanoparticles, nanotubes, and items incorporating nanoparticles and nanotubes. Microwave, radio frequency, or infrared energy vaporizes a metal catalyst which, as it condenses, is contacted by carbon or other elements such as silicon, germanium, or boron to form agglomerates. The agglomerates may be annealed to accelerate the production of nanotubes. Magnetic or electric fields may be used to align the nanotubes during their production. The nanotubes may be separated from the production byproducts in aligned or non-aligned configurations. The agglomerates may be formed directly into tools, optionally in compositions that incorporate other materials such as abrasives, binders, carbon-carbon composites, and cermets.
US07909897B2 Droplet impingement chemical reactors and methods of processing fuel
Fuel processors, methods of using fuel processors, and the like, are disclosed.
US07909886B2 Tissue repair fabric
This invention is directed to prosthesis, which, when implanted into a mammalian patient, serves as a functioning replacement for a body part, or tissue structure, and will undergo controlled biodegradation occurring concomitantly with bioremodeling by the patient's living cells. The prosthesis is treated so that it is rendered non-antigenic so as not to elicit a significant humoral immune response. The prosthesis of this invention, in its various embodiments, thus has dual properties. First, it functions as a substitute body part, and second, it functions as bioremodeling template for the ingrowth of host cells.
US07909885B2 Swing-phase controller with an artificial joint
An artificial joint including a stance-phase control means having a flexing axis and a control axis and a swing-phase control means adapted to engage the stance-phase control means. The perpendicular distance between the flexing axis and the swing-phase control means and the perpendicular distance between the control axis and the swing-phase control means are equal when the artificial joint rotates about the flexing axis up to 65°.
US07909881B2 Femoral prosthesis
A prosthetic femoral implant has a stem having a proximal end and a distal end. A circumferential collar is formed on the proximal end of the stem having a proximally facing surface in the form of a circular disc extending radially inwardly and proximally from a maximum outer circumference to a central neck region. The collar has a distally facing surface extending radially inwardly and distally at an included angle with respect to a central longitudinal axis of the neck region of between 120 and 140°. The distal surface of the collar is v-shaped and may be conical in form.
US07909876B2 Intervertebral disc prosthesis with shear-limiting core
An intervertebral disc prosthesis comprises a superior endplate, an inferior endplate, and an intermediate core positioned between the endplates. The core comprises a central disc portion and a radial flange. The central disc portion of the core is defined by a superior bearing surface and inferior bearing surface. The radial flange of the core includes a first portion that extends radially outward from the central disc portion of the core. The radial flange also includes a second portion that extends axially from the first portion of the flange. The second portion of the flange extends a substantially greater distance toward the inferior endplate than toward the superior endplate. In one embodiment, the second portion of the flange extends completely to the inferior endplate and engages the inferior endplate when the inferior endplate is in a neutral position relative to the core.
US07909873B2 Delivery apparatus and methods for vertebrostenting
The invention relates to a method of delivering and deploying a stent into a curvilinear cavity within a vertebral body or other bony or body structure. The invention also relates to devices that may be used to perform the steps to deliver and deploy a stent.
US07909864B2 Implantable medical devices having adjustable pore volume and methods for making the same
The present invention is directed to implantable medical devices which may be used for controllably releasing a therapeutic agent within a patient and methods for making the same. These medical devices may include porous coatings, which may be polymer-free, located on an outer surface or abluminal surface of the medical device. The medical device may be a stent. The pores of the porous coating may be expandable to facilitate loading of the therapeutic agent. The medical device may be triggerable upon implantation of the medical device such that the volume of the voids shrinks to eject the therapeutic agent. The voids may be slots in the stent. Expandable materials or structures may be positioned in the voids to expand upon implantation and eject the therapeutic agent.
US07909856B2 Methods for securing spinal rods
A method of securing a spinal rod to a spine includes providing a head portion having a channel extending therethrough for receiving a spinal rod, the channel and the head portion being bounded by a first side wall and a second side wall. The method includes providing a bone fastener depending from the head portion, arranging the spinal rod in the channel of the head portion, and providing a locking cap having first and second portions that are rotatable relative to one another, the second portion of the locking cap having an underside with a recess. The method includes assembling the locking cap with the head portion so that the first portion is between the first and second side walls and so that the recess of the second portion of the locking cap is in contact with the spinal rod. While maintaining the recess of the second portion of the locking cap in contact with the spinal rod, the first portion of the locking cap is rotated, such rotation translating into a locking force applied by the second portion of the locking cap onto the spinal rod.
US07909855B2 Orthopedic implant assembly
Embodiments of an orthopedic implant assembly include an apparatus having a receiver member and a fixation member. The receiver member includes first and second branches which define a channel extending along a longitudinal axis. The channel is configured to receive an elongated member. Additionally, the fixation member can include a threaded portion configured to engage bone. The orthopedic implant system can further include a one-step locking mechanism operably connected with the receiver member, the locking mechanism being configured to lock an elongated member in the channel. The locking mechanism includes a first closure device operably connected with the first branch and a second closure device operably connected with the second branch. The first and second closure devices are configured to cooperate with each other along a lateral axis to lock an elongated member in the channel. In certain embodiments, the lateral axis does not intersect the longitudinal axis.
US07909852B2 Adjustable-angle spinal fixation element
A spinal fixation device is provided having first and second elongate members that are angularly adjustable relative to one another. Each elongate member can include a connecting feature formed on a terminal end thereof, and each connecting feature can be coupled to one another to allow angular movement of the first and second elongate members. The device can also include a locking mechanism that is adapted to couple to the connecting feature on each of the first and second elongate members to lock the elongate members in a fixed position relative to one another.
US07909848B2 Tissue retractor and guide device
A tissue retractor and guide device for use in securing a spinal fixation plate to a spine is provided. In general, the device includes an elongate member having a guide member formed thereon or mated thereto with at least one pathway for receiving a tool. The guide member is adapted to be juxtapositioned on a spinal implant, while the distal portion of the elongate member is effective to retract tissue disposed adjacent to the guide member.
US07909845B2 Epistaxis apparatus and method
An epistaxis apparatus for use with a sphygmomanometer having an arm cuff comprising: i) an air filled compressible rubber reservoir bulb sized to be received within the arm cuff for compression therein; ii) a flexible hose having one end connected to an end portion of the compressible bulb; and, iii) an inflatable nasal bladder having a front end portion connected to another end potion of the hose having an exterior shape generally sized to fill a nasal cavity. When the sphygmomanometer is pumped to a selected pressure, the nasal bladder expands within the nasal cavity to the selected pressure stopping a nose bleed. In a preferred aspect of this invention the nasal bladder comprises two similar side portions so that each nasal cavity of a user may receive one of the nasal bladders so that when the apparatus is pumped to the selected pressure each side portion will be similarly pressured and septal deviation with its associated discomfort will be avoided. Each side portion of the bladder further comprises a breathing tube extending through the bladder from a front to a rear side portion thereof so that after the side portions of the bladder are positioned and pressurized within the nasal cavity the user will be able to breath through the breathing tubes therein.
US07909844B2 Catheters having actuatable lumen assemblies
A catheter comprises a first catheter shaft comprising a wall. The wall comprises at least one section of electroactive polymer having an actuated state and a non-actuated state and defines a first lumen. In the actuated state the first lumen haves a first diameter and in the non-actuated state the first lumen haves a second diameter, the first diameter being different than the second diameter.
US07909840B2 Surgical knife safety handle having user operable lock
A surgical knife safety device having a handle, a blade connected to the handle, and a guard carried by the handle for sliding movement between a retracted position in which the blade is exposed for use, and an extended position for covering the sharp cutting edge of the blade. In the retracted position, an enlarged guard radius is provided at the distal end of the handle to allow improved handle control and blade orientation. The enlarged guard radius is positioned to allow the user to firmly grip a large distal handle portion which is preferably molded as a single piece with the blade holder, preventing unwanted blade or handle movement due to guard mechanism tolerances. A spring, such as leaf spring or a cantilever beam, and a pair of detents or slots are provided to fix the guard in the extended or retracted position and to provide resistance during movement between the two positions. Additionally, a pushback prevention mechanism, a user operable lock and a drop-force operable lock are provided to prevent accidental retraction of the guard from the fully extended and guarded position.
US07909839B2 Gastric bypass band and surgical method
An inventive method for performing gastric bypass surgery and a gastric bypass band that is used in conjunction with the surgical method is disclosed. The inventive method involves separating a top portion of the stomach along with the esophagus from the remainder of the stomach, and re-connecting the separated portion to the small intestine to form a gastric pouch of about 20-30 cc in size. The inventive gastric band is placed midway along the gastric pouch to act as a restrictor valve to limit the amount of food passing through the valve. The band also retains food within the gastric pouch to give the patient a feeling of satiety. The band is comprised of an expansion-resistant section combined with a one-way latch mechanism. The latch has a curved orientation so that the band is formed into a radial profile when placed around the gastric pouch.
US07909838B2 Obesity treatment tools and methods
Various obesity treatment tools and methods are described herein, as well as treatments for other gastric-related diseases, e.g., GERD. Treatment includes reducing the size of the stomach pouch to limit the caloric intake as well as to provide an earlier feeling of satiety. This may be done by creating a smaller gastric pouch within the stomach directly from the interior of the stomach itself. The smaller pouches may be made through the use of individual anchoring devices, rotating probes, or volume reduction devices. A pyloroplasty procedure may also be performed to render the pyloric sphincter incompetent. A gastric bypass procedure may additionally be performed using atraumatic magnetic anastomoses devices so that sugars and fats are passed directly to the bowel while bypassing the stomach. Many of these procedures may be done in a variety of combinations. Treatment may create enforced behavioral modifications by discouraging the ingestion of high-caloric foods.
US07909835B2 Auxiliary instrument for fixing rod
An auxiliary instrument for fixing a rod places a detent pin on a head portion of the screw. The auxiliary instrument comprises an inner cylinder, an outer cylinder, a first lever and a second lever. The inner cylinder has a plurality of claw portions and an opening employed to introduce the detent pin into an interior thereof. The outer cylinder is arranged to surround the inner cylinder and has a claw pressing portion. The first lever is rotatably connected to the inner cylinder and arranged in substantially perpendicular to an axial direction of the inner cylinder. The second lever is rotatably connected to the fist lever and the outer cylinder and arranged in substantially perpendicular to an axial direction of the outer cylinder. When the first and second levers are operated, the claw portions are pressed inward by the claw pressing portion to hold the head portion of the screw.
US07909828B2 Contoured reamer teeth and method of manufacture
An acetabular reamer (10′) for cutting a required cut shape. The reamer has a cutting shell (12′) having a series of doubly curved cutting teeth (16′) thereon of a quantity to substantially reduce a cutting pressure on each tooth as well as to reduce a size of a typical chip generated upon cutting. Substantially all the teeth each have a matched arc cutting edge (20′) of substantial length that has a cutting profile which substantially matches a profile of a shape to be cut. The apertures in which the cutting edges are formed has at least one flat edge by which a punch, used in the process of forming the edge may be oriented. Such a configuration reduces the number of teeth required to cut the shape.
US07909825B2 Fracture fixation device, tools and methods
A bone fixation device is provided with an elongate body having a longitudinal axis and having a flexible state and a rigid state, a plurality of grippers disposed at longitudinally spaced locations of the elongated body, a curved rigid hub connected to the elongated body, and an actuator operably connected to the grippers to deploy the grippers from a first shape to an expanded second shape. Methods of repairing a fracture of a bone are also disclosed. One such method comprising inserting a bone fixation device into an intramedullary space of the bone to place at least a portion of an elongate body of the fixation device in a flexible state on one side of the fracture and at least a portion of a curved rigid hub on another side of the fracture, and operating an actuator to deploy a plurality of grippers of the fixation device to engage an inner surface of the intramedullary space to anchor the fixation device to the bone.
US07909818B2 Jointed mirror arm
A jointed mirror arm includes at least two tubular pieces, connected to each other by a joint with a reflecting mirror, which, as a result of the joint, may be arranged in varying configurations and which form a beam path for the radiation, with a fixed inlet on a first tube piece for the introduction of radiation from a stationary optical source and a position different from the position of the inlet for the outlet from the intermediate joint arm on a final tube piece for emitting said radiation. The jointed mirror arm is characterized in that a scanner for the radiation is arranged before the inlet into the intermediate jointed arm and an optical imaging system is provided in the at least two tube pieces of the intermediate jointed arm, for imaging the scanner after the output from the intermediate jointed arm.
US07909808B2 Dual-ended applicator for dispensing two fluids
An applicator for dispensing two separate tissue adhesives includes a generally elongate body having two distinct interior regions, each containing one of the two tissue adhesives. Hinged levers associated with each region selectively force the expulsion of the adhesive from the end portions of the applicator in response to application of force by the operator.
US07909807B2 Pants-type disposable wearing article
A pants-type disposable wearing article includes leg-circumferential first elastic members attached to crotch region's lateral margins of an outer sheet and waist-circumferential second elastic members attached to waist regions' upper margins of the outer sheet. The elastic members are joined to the sheet while the sheet and the second elastic members are stretched at given extension ratios, respectively, in a transverse direction and the first elastic members is stretched at a given extension ratio in the leg-circumferential direction so that the sheet and the first elastic members may have substantially the same leg-circumferential dimensions after these sheet and first elastic members have been relaxed and the sheet and the second elastic members may have substantially the same transverse dimensions after these sheet and second elastic members have been relaxed. In addition, the waist regions' upper margins and the crotch region's lateral margins are substantially planar.
US07909806B2 Cord blood and placenta collection kit
The present invention provides an improved kit for the collection of umbilical cord blood and placental blood, and collection of the placenta from which such blood is obtained. The kit improves upon existing kits in that it provides for improved user convenience, provides for the collection of the placenta itself, and better maintains the internal temperature of the container in which the collected blood and placenta are shipped to a blood bank or registry. The invention further provides a method of collecting umbilical cord and placental blood, and the placenta from which such blood is obtained, comprising using the kit described herein.
US07909794B2 Catheter with autoinflating, autoregulating balloon
An autoinflating catheter and balloon assembly having an autoregulating structure to prevent overinflation of the balloon as a result of variable fluid flow rates through the catheter lumen. A tight-fitting elastomeric balloon is provided on the distal end of the catheter body, and the assembly is constructed so that at least a portion of the fluid flow through the lumen is directed to the balloon to inflate it. As the balloon is inflated, more and more of the fluid flow through the catheter is discharged from the catheter, thereby preventing overinflation of the balloon.
US07909783B2 Foot compression system
Methods and systems for dynamic compression of venous tissue enable improved blood movement in the extremities. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, a pressure pad provides a compressive force to the venous plexus region of the foot. The pressure pad is successively withdrawn and re-pressed against the foot. Improved blood circulation may reduce the occurrence of undesirable complications such as deep vein thrombosis, ulcers, and the like.
US07909782B2 Ultrasonic medical device
Ultrasonic medical apparatus is disclosed comprising ultrasonic transducers and associated electronics incorporated in a portable hand-held device adapted for engagement with the neck of a person and energized to induce a coughing reflex in the person. The apparatus can be utilized on subjects who, for various reasons, are unable to initiate coughing themselves at the time, and results in the effective clearing of fluid and debris within small airways in the lungs which cannot be reached by intrusive suction clearing.
US07909756B2 Illumination system for variable direction of view instruments
A illumination system for variable direction of view instruments is disclosed generally comprising an endoscope having a longitudinal axis and a variable view vector that pivots about a pivot axis angularly offset from the longitudinal axis. The view vector has an attendant viewing field that travels along a path as the view vector pivots, defining a viewing range. A source of illumination is arranged in a plane offset from the plane in which the view vector pivots and provides an annular, solid angle of illumination that covers the viewing range. In certain embodiments, the pivot axis is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and the illumination plane is parallel to the pivot plane. In some embodiments, the source of illumination is a plurality of light emitting diodes arranged around the pivot axis.
US07909752B2 Behaviour modification
The use of stimuli in order to create association between training regimes subconsciously is known. Unfortunately, in highly noisy and other polluted environments it is difficult to provide ongoing reinforcement of previous behavior modification and training. By providing a stimulus phrase which comprises two or more stimuli in known combinations it is possible to provide keyed association with previous training regimes.
US07909746B2 Push-up exercise apparatus
A Push-Up Exercise Apparatus includes a swiveling base, a handle, and an arcuate member. The swiveling base is connected with the arcuate member. The arcuate member base is comprised of a housing and a housing base. The housing is sized to accept the arcuate member. The handle is connected with the swiveling base.
US07909742B2 Functional training exercise apparatus and methods
Exercise apparatus and methods are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, an exercise assembly includes a load, a support assembly, a force-transferring assembly operatively coupled to the load and to the support assembly, and an exercise station operatively coupled to the force-transferring assembly. The exercise station includes a user interface, at least one adjustment assembly configured to adjust a position of the user interface, and an actuator assembly selectively engageable with the at least one adjustment assembly. The actuator assembly is configured to approximately simultaneously enable vertical and horizontal adjustment of the user interface when the actuator assembly is actuated to release the at least one adjustment assembly, and to approximately simultaneously disable adjustment of the user interface when the actuator assembly is actuated to lock the at least one adjustment assembly. Thus, movements of the user interface may be easily and efficiently performed using a single-touch actuation assembly.
US07909740B2 Elliptical exercise machine with integrated aerobic exercise system
A combined anaerobic and aerobic exercise system comprises a multi-part frame, for example a telescoping frame, or a pivoting frame. The aerobic system may include an elliptical exercise device, while the anaerobic system may include a cable-based system wherein resistance is adjustable. An electronic console system at the exercise system allows a user to view progress in both anaerobic and aerobic workouts, and to send input signals that adjust anaerobic and aerobic resistance mechanisms.
US07909739B2 Pedal exercise machine having arc trajectory
A pedal exercise machine with pedals and arm levers operated in conjunction with each other. A base, a front frame and a center frame are coupled to each other and a pair of pedals move upwards and downwards in alternating directions. Pedal links connect the pedals to the base, arm levers couple to the front frame, and lever link units include a first lever link coupled to the corresponding arm lever and a second lever link connecting the first lever link to the corresponding pedal. Subsidiary pedal links connect the pedals to the center frame, a resistance pulley is provided in the center frame, and a crank having crank arms is coupled to the resistance pulley. A first actuating link is coupled to each pedal link at a predetermined angle. A second actuating link is rotatably coupled at both ends to the first actuating link and the corresponding crank arm.
US07909728B2 Vehicle drive device controller
A vehicle drive apparatus is disclosed having a differential mechanism and an electric motor provided in the differential mechanism for miniaturizing the drive apparatus or improving fuel consumption while suppressing the occurrence of shifting shocks. A switching clutch C0 or switching brake B0 is provided for placing a shifting mechanism 10 in a continuously variable shifting state and a step variable shifting state, enabling the drive apparatus to have combined advantages including a fuel economy improving effect of a transmission, enabled to electrically change a speed ratio, and a high transmitting efficiency of a gear type transmitting device enabled to mechanically transmit drive power. During a shifting of an automatic shifting portion 20 with a differential portion placed in a continuously variable shifting state, engaging pressure control means 84 controls a engaging pressure of a engaging device of the automatic power shifting portion 20 such that a rotational speed N18 of a transmitting member achieves a given variation so as to provide a compromise between a rapid shifting response on a feeling and a slow shifting response on the shifting shocks, thereby suppressing the occurrence of the shifting shocks.
US07909714B2 Rear mounted penetration limiter for bow-fired projectiles
A rear mounted penetration limiter for bow-fired projectiles for use in combination with a projectile and a nock, wherein said projectile is an arrow or a crossbow bolt, said penetration limiter comprising an attachment component, a nock securing component, and an engagement component having one or more engagement members, with said penetration limiter suitably adapted to limit the penetration of the projectile through a game animal once the front end of the projectile has struck and passed through the game animal, thereby allowing the creation of an exit wound while retaining the projectile within the game animal. In one embodiment the penetration limiter is adapted to detach from the projectile, remaining secured thereto by a short tether, thereby allowing the detached penetration limiter to reorient itself within the game animal to create greater drag on the projectile.
US07909704B2 Training equipment for golf players
Training equipment for golf players that can be used by a golf trainee to execute a swing through a correct succession of movements of the body includes a mat (1) having a longitudinal dimension (2) and a transversal dimension (3). The mat (1) provides a support surface (1a) that is laid in a training area and a reference surface (1b) equipped with a plurality of reference signs with respect to which the golf trainee moves for follow corresponding body positions during a swing. On the reference surface (1b) of the mat (1) a golf ball reference position (11) is provided and two reference footprints (21, 22) are depicted at which the golf trainee stays with the right foot and with the left foot respectively. The mat (1) also includes a plurality of reference lines with respect to which the golf trainee orients the arms to reach a determined posture during a swing.
US07909701B2 Power transmission apparatus
A power transmission apparatus comprises a pulley mounted rotatably on a casing of a rotary device, a hub coupled to the pulley by fitting between depressions and protrusions, a power shutoff member for preventing excessive torque between a rotary shaft and the hub, and an engaging device for engaging the hub and the pulley each other. The engaging device includes a first stepped portion formed radially on the outer periphery of the hub and a second stepped portion formed radially on the inner peripheral wall of a rim of the pulley in such a manner as to engage the first stepped portion in the axial direction.
US07909698B2 Input device, input determination method, game system, game system control method, program, and information storage medium
With a game system, a timing fetch section fetches an input-timing for input data determined to be valid by an input-determination section, and an evaluation section compares the fetched input-timing and a reference-timing, and evaluates an operation with an operation section by a player or a sound-input action performed in answer to a first or second direction-mark. An input-reception section receives first and second input data generated based on an operation-detection of the operation section a sound-detection of the sound-detection section, respectively, and an input-determination section compares the first and second input data, determines that the first input data is valid when it is determined that the operation with the operation section by the player and the sound-input action by the player overlap within a given period, based on the first and second input data, and determines that the first and second input data are valid in other cases.
US07909689B2 Methods and apparatus for remote gaming
A gaming apparatus may include a display unit capable of generating video images, a first value input device, and a controller operatively coupled to the display unit and the value input device. The first value input device may be located at a first geographic location. The controller may comprise a processor and a memory, and may be programmed to allow a person to make a wager, to cause a first video image to be generated on the display unit, and to determine a first value payout associated with an outcome of a game. The first video image may represent a first game wagered on the first value input device. The controller may also cause a second video image to be generated on the display unit. The second video image may represent a second game wagered on at a second value input device located at a second geographic location different from the first geographic location.
US07909684B2 Automotive front post garnish with integral defroster duct
A molded plastic garnish assembly (10) for a front post of an automotive vehicle, the garnish assembly having a duct portion (16) integrally molded with an overlying portion (18) that has a vent opening (14) therein. The duct portion and the overlying portion are molded together in alignment and are subsequently brought into overlying relationship by bending them relative to one another about a molded-in hinge (20). The duct portion and the overlying portion are secured to one another by engagement of a hook portion (22) at the end of a finger (24) that depends from the overlying portion into an opening (26) in a finger (28) that depends from the duct portion.
US07909682B1 Shrimp peeling, deveining and head removal tool
A shrimp peeling, deveining and head removal tool including a pair of handles pivoted together and urged apart by a compression spring, an upper blade attached to lower handle and a lower blade pivoted to both handles with the ends of the blades of substantially of the same configuration and disposed in close proximity one within the other when the handles are compressed, and a pair of tines extending, respectively, from the upper handle and the upper blade and being in contact substantially the entire length thereof when the handles are not compressed.
US07909672B2 Organic light-emitting display device
A scanning line, a signal line, a first current supply line, and a second current supply line are formed on a glass substrate, a first electrode is formed on the wiring layer comprising the above members, an organic layer comprising a hole transport layer, a light-emitting layer, an electron transport layer, and an electron injection layer is formed on the first electrode, a second electrode is formed as cathode on the electron injection layer, the first electrode as anode is connected to a plus terminal of a power source through the driving devices and the first current supply line, whereas the second electrode as cathode is connected to a minus terminal of the power source, and is connected to the second current supply line in the display region of each pixel, with a contact hole serving as a feeding point, whereby wiring resistance due to the second electrode is reduced, and variations in the brightness of a panel is reduced.
US07909667B1 Crimp contacts and electrical connector assemblies including the same
A crimp contact that includes an elongated contact body having loading and mating ends and a central axis extending therebetween. The contact body includes a contact wall that extends around the central axis and that defines a conductor-receiving passage of the contact body proximate to the loading end. The contact wall has an outer surface. The crimp contact also includes a sleeve wall that extends around the central axis and the outer surface of the contact wall proximate to the loading end of the contact body. The sleeve wall is sized to engage a crimping tool and the contact wall is configured to grip a conductor within the conductor-receiving passage when the sleeve and contact walls are deformed by the crimping tool.
US07909661B2 Plug connector with improved cable arrangement and having retaining arrangement securely retaining mating substrate therein
A plug connector, for mating with a complementary connector, includes a housing comprising a mating interface defined by a pair of tongue portions and an opening defined between the tongue sections, a cover assembled with housing, an inner mold received in the cover, a printed circuit boar received in the housing and the inner mold, a plurality of cables electrically attached to corresponding electrical pads of the printed circuit board, and a fastening element securely anchored to the housing. The cover includes a first section, a second section extending along a direction different from the first section extending along, and a bending section connecting the second section to the first section. The printed circuit board includes a plurality of electrical pads formed thereon a part of which defines a mating portion parallel to the pair of tongue sections. The fastening element includes column post extending through the printed circuit board.
US07909654B2 Plug connector having an improved shell
A plug connector for mating with a receptacle connector includes a PCB having opposed upper and lower surfaces; a set of metal contacting pads disposed on the upper surface of the PCB; a metal shell enveloping the upper surface of the PCB and collaborating with the upper surface to form a receiving space for receiving a tongue plate of the receptacle connector; and a metal film covering the lower surface of the PCB.
US07909650B2 Card connector provided with function for detecting an integrated circuit card
A card connector is provided which has a reduced size. The card connector includes a plurality of contacts which are held in a housing including an accommodating space for accommodating an electronic card. The plurality of contacts include a first switch contact and a second switch contact which are electrically connected to each other via a ground connection pad of the electronic card when the electronic card is accommodated in the accommodating space.
US07909645B2 Coaxial cable connector housing
A housing is provided for a coaxial cable connector that terminates a coaxial cable. The housing includes a cable-receiving end portion configured to engage an insulating cover of the coaxial cable, a mating end portion configured to engage another coaxial connector, and a base extending between the cable-receiving end portion and the mating end portion. The base is configured to engage an outer electrical conductor of the coaxial cable. The housing also includes an electrical contact. The electrical contact includes an extension extending outwardly from the electrical contact, wherein the extension is configured to engage the outer electrical conductor of the coaxial cable.
US07909625B2 Plug locking assembly and system
A system comprises a plug locking assembly and a key. The plug locking assembly comprises a cover for receiving and holding a plug comprising a latch and a latch support surface positionable under the latch. A rotatable cam comprising a stop surface and a slot may carry the latch support surface and may interact with a cam latch comprising an arm. The arm is alternately positionable to abut the stop surface and to lie within the slot. The key may comprise a shaft, a key tab and a limit tab. The key mates with a key receiving member associated with the cover. The limit tab is positioned on a top surface of the shaft and helps prevent over-rotation of the latch support member.
US07909624B2 Carabiner universal serial bus hub
A connector hub apparatus is provided that has a carabiner clip connected to one or more portions of the apparatus. The apparatus can utilize a locking or non-locking type carabiner clip to secure the hub to a bag, belt loop, etc. for quick and easy transport of the apparatus. The hub apparatus can also be clipped around a group of wires or cables to securely fasten the hub in a position off the user's desktop, thus freeing up desk space. In one embodiment, the hub apparatus has an integrated upstream cable and plug that folds out from the apparatus, thereby eliminating the need to carry an upstream cable with the hub apparatus when traveling.
US07909621B1 Socket connector having contact terminal tail with split solder ball retained thereon and method fabricating the same
An electrical connector includes an insulative housing with a number of passageways, a number of electrical contacts received in the passageways and a number of solder balls disposed on the electrical contacts respectively. Each electrical contact includes a contacting portion projecting out of the insulative housing, a retention portion retained in the passageways, and a solder portion. Each solder ball defines a gap which can be deformed to close the solder portion of the electrical contact by external force.
US07909599B2 Injection nozzle for guiding hot-melt plastic within a mold
Among other things, the invention relates to an injection nozzle for guiding hot-melt plastic within a mold, particularly an injection mold. Said injection nozzle comprises a nozzle housing (11) and a nozzle needle (13) which is mounted in a translationally movable manner and is used for opening and closing a melt opening that leads to a mold cavity. The nozzle needle (13) can be moved by means of a driving mechanism (V) to which a transmitting device (14) is assigned that allows a movement of the driving mechanism (V) to be converted into a movement of the nozzle needle (13). The invention is characterized, inter alia, in that the transmitting device (14) is assigned to an attached unit (22) which can be releasably connected to the injection nozzle (10) and inside which a rod assembly (30) is disposed at least in part. Said rod assembly (30) is connected to the driving mechanism (V) at an input end while being connected in a rigid, tenacious, and compression-resistant manner to the nozzle needle (13) at an output end.
US07909596B2 Resin molding machine and method of resin molding
The resin molding machine is capable of cleaning a resin molding die while performing a molding action without stopping the molding action and capable of securely removing contaminations from the resin molding die. The resin molding machine comprises: a press unit including a resin molding die; and a cleaning unit for cleaning a molding face of the resin molding die. The cleaning unit has an energy ray irradiation section, which irradiates an energy ray to the molding face of the resin molding die so as to easily peel off a contamination, which has been stuck on the molding face during a molding action, from the molding face. The contamination is stuck onto resin of a molded product when the product is resin-molded, so that the molded product is released from the resin molding die together with the contamination.
US07909595B2 Apparatus and method for exposing a substrate to UV radiation using a reflector having both elliptical and parabolic reflective sections
Embodiments of the invention relate generally to an ultraviolet (UV) cure chamber for curing a dielectric material disposed on a substrate and to methods of curing dielectric materials using UV radiation. A substrate processing tool according to one embodiment comprises a body defining a substrate processing region; a substrate support adapted to support a substrate within the substrate processing region; an ultraviolet radiation lamp spaced apart from the substrate support, the lamp configured to transmit ultraviolet radiation to a substrate positioned on the substrate support; and a motor operatively coupled to rotate at least one of the ultraviolet radiation lamp or substrate support at least 180 degrees relative to each other. The substrate processing tool may further comprise one or more reflectors adapted to generate a flood pattern of ultraviolet radiation over the substrate that has complementary high and low intensity areas which combine to generate a substantially uniform irradiance pattern if rotated. Other embodiments are also disclosed.
US07909590B2 Reciprocating component-free kinematic motion apparatus for transforming pressure variations of a fluid operating in cyclically variable volume toroidal chambers into a mechanical work on a rotary axis and engine including said apparatus
In a cat and mouse type apparatus for transforming volume variations of a plurality of chambers into a rotary motion of an axis, all of the driving mechanism is housed in a cylindric cavity coaxial with the driving axis, between the cylindric cavity, a smaller diameter inner coaxial cylinder and two discs perpendicular to the axis, a toroidal cavity in which are housed rotary pistons, each longitudinally traversed by an axis and having a circular sector in cross-section shape, the rotary pistons rotating to form cavities defined therebetween, also having a substantially circular shape in cross section, where the cavities cyclically change their volumes and an apparatus driving shaft is rotatively driven.
US07909581B2 Layer system, use and process for producing a layer system
Layered systems, which are used at high temperatures, often degrade rapidly when a layer has been lost, leading to the damage or loss of the component that consists of said layered system. A described layered system comprises at least one cooling safety orifice, which is e.g. covered by an intermediate layer and an outer layer. The cooling safety orifice opens if the layers are damaged, in such a way that the layered system is additionally cooled by a coolant that flows through the cooling safety orifice.
US07909577B2 System and method for pulverizing and extracting moisture
A venturi receives incoming material through an inlet tube and subjects the material to pulverization. The material, as it undergoes pulverization, is further subject to moisture extraction and drying. An airflow generator, coupled to the venturi, generates a high speed airflow to pull the material through the venturi and into an inlet aperture in the airflow generator. The airflow generator directs the received pulverized material to an outlet where the material may be subsequently separated from the air.
US07909567B2 Stratum deployment of wind turbines
Installing large-sized wind turbines creates numerous challenges and limitations, hindering acceptance of wind generated energy. With small-sized wind turbines, such hindrances are omitted or minimized. Sized ever smaller, more small-sized wind turbines may be installed per installation. Accordingly, a method and corresponding apparatus for maximizing wind energy gathering potential of a plurality of wind turbines, each wind turbine having a sweep height, for a given location is provided. The present invention includes sizing sweep heights of substantially all wind turbines of the plurality of wind turbines to intersect at least one horizontal plane unique from horizontal planes intersected by a sweep height of at least one immediately adjacent wind turbine. Because the sweep height of each wind turbine of the plurality is individually sized in a prescribed manner, the present invention maximizes the wind energy gathering potential of the plurality of wind turbines especially for deployment of small-sized wind turbines.
US07909565B2 Turbomachine, in particular a gas turbine
The invention relates to a turbo-machine, in particular to a gas turbine and to a method for accelerating a temperature modification of a rotor shaft rotationally mounted in turbo-machine. The aim of invention is to develop a device and a method for the turbo-machine making it possible to reduce the size of a radial split of the turbo-machine in order to obtain greater degree of efficiency. The inventive turbo-machine comprises a rotor rotationally mounted in the case of the turbo-machine, a feeding channel embodied in the rotor for introducing a fluid and an outlet channel embodied in the rotor for removing fluid. An inlet orifice of the feeding channel is disposed further inside than the outlet orifice of the outlet channel, and arrangement influencing a liquid flow is formed of an actuating device dependent on centrifugal force. Methods for cooling the rotor only by decelerating the gas turbine and for heating the turbo-machine rotor by heating fluid flowing there-through are also disclosed.
US07909552B2 Rotatable partition system for a freight carrying enclosure
A flexible system is provided for preventing freight damage during shipment. The system has adjustable and interlocking hinged panels that are attached to the side walls of a shipping enclosure, so that the system can be readily adapted to secure different types and sizes of loads. One embodiment of the invention, provided for use with a freight carrying enclosure that has an internal wall, includes first and second panel segments that each have an edge. A first mounting structure supports the first panel segment for rotation about a vertical axis, between a first position wherein the first panel segment is in perpendicular relationship with the wall, and a second position wherein the first panel segment is in abutting relationship with the wall. A second mounting structure joins the first and second panel segments together along their respective edges, and enables rotation of the second panel between vertical and horizontal orientations. A support structure selectively maintains the second panel segment in its horizontal orientation.
US07909548B2 Spherical internal motion cutting tool
A rotary motion cutting tool having an axis of rotation for cutting at least a portion of the spherical surface on an internal surface of a workpiece includes a rotary slide, a rotary actuator, and an actuating plate with a rotary surface machined therein. The rotary slide is rotatably supported with respect to a rotary axis extending generally perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the rotary motion cutting tool. The rotary actuator is rotatably supported with respect to the rotary slide for rotation about a rotary actuator support axis spaced radially from, and generally parallel with, the rotary axis of the rotary slide. The actuating plate is driven in reciprocal movement along the axis of rotation for interaction with the rotary actuator. Reciprocal movement of the actuating plate translates through the rotary surface and rotary actuator into rotary movement of the rotary slide through an arc about the rotary axis. Synchronized rotary movement of first and second rotary slides through first and second arcs about the rotary axis is provided while maintaining the rotational balance with respect to the axis of rotation of the rotary motion cutting tool. A process of operating the rotary motion cutting tool is disclosed.
US07909540B2 Portable surface air supply system
A portable air supply system includes a main frame for nesting paired air SCUBA cylinders therein. Saddle arms are connected for engaging the frame to pontoons of an inflatable boat. A pair of baskets are connected for carrying umbilical lines. A control box controls air flow, monitors diver status, and provides a communication link.
US07909539B2 Rod pulling and pushing machine for pipe bursting
A rod pushing and pulling machine includes at least one hydraulic cylinder having a front end thereof engagable with a reaction surface at an entry opening of a existing pipeline or borehole, a spindle assembly, and a dual vise assembly. The spindle assembly includes a frame, a spindle shaft rotatably mounted in the frame, a distal end of the spindle shaft being threaded for engagement with a mating thread of a rod, a drive system for rotating the spindle shaft in threading and unthreading directions, the spindle frame being secured to a rear end of the hydraulic cylinder for pushing or pulling of a rod string engaged to the spindle shaft upon extension or retraction of the hydraulic cylinder, and a support assembly for the spindle shaft. The support assembly includes a set of roller bearings rotatably supporting the spindle shaft, a radial flange on the spindle shaft, and a load flange secured to the spindle frame positioned to engage the radial flange, whereby the radial flange comes into engagement with the load flange during pulling operation to prevent rotation of the spindle shaft during pulling operation, and leaves engagement with the load flange during pushing operation so that the spindle shaft may rotate during pushing operation supported by the roller bearings. The dual vise assembly has two pairs of separately actuable jaws positioned to grip a rod nearest the spindle shaft and a rod adjacent the rod nearest the spindle shaft.
US07909533B2 Apparatus for screeding uncured concrete surfaces
A wheeled screeding device includes a wheeled support having a frame portion supported by at least one wheel, with the at least one wheel defining an axis of rotation. A screed head is mounted to the frame portion and is balanced such that the screed head is at least partially supportable on an uncured concrete surface. The screed head is adapted to impart a force onto the uncured concrete surface. An adjustment device may be operable to adjust a balance of the wheeled support about the axis of rotation to adjust the force imparted by the screed head. The screed head may be pivotable about an axis generally normal to the axis of rotation of the wheel and relative to the at least one wheel to adjust an angle of the screed head relative to the axis of rotation of the wheel.
US07909530B2 Connection hardware for wooden building
A technique to extensively increase the efficiency of the construction of large-size wooden building and to effectively use the loading space when materials for construction are transported fixes a basic hardware on a lateral surface of a longitudinal member with a subsidiary hardware on an end surface of a lateral member. The basic hardware has an upper tapered portion and a lower receiving portion and is affixed to the longitudinal member. The subsidiary hardware is affixed to the lateral member and has a lower tapered portion and an upper receiving portion that engage with the upper tapered portion and the lower receiving portion, respectively, of the basic hardware to join the longitudinal member and the lateral member together.
US07909516B2 Shaft bearing attachment system
A mounting system is disclosed for mounting a bearing assembly or other mechanical element to a shaft. The mounting system uses a tapered sleeve mechanism to secure the bearing assembly on the shaft. Specifically, a plurality of screws point load the tapered sleeve and drive it from a pre-assembled position to an initial position. Once the initial position has been reached a plurality of fasteners then drive the sleeve from the initial position to a final position. The difference between the initial position and final position determined by the width of a removable spacer used in the mounting system. The system also incorporates a jack screw mechanism used to dismount the bearing assembly from the shaft.
US07909511B2 Tray for portable digital radiography cassette
An apparatus for digital radiography has a cassette adapted to obtain a digital image of a subject in response to incident radiation when receiving source power through an input power connector and adapted to provide the obtained digital image as output from a first data connector. A support tray is adapted to removably seat the cassette and has a second data connector that releasably engages with the first data connector on the cassette when the cassette is seated in the support tray. A wireless communication circuit in the support tray is energizable to transmit the digital image obtained from first data connector of the cassette to a host processor. A battery in the tray provides source power to at least the wireless communication circuit on the support tray circuitry and the input power connector of the seated cassette.
US07909503B2 Portable timepiece and method of fabricating crown provided to the timepiece
A portable timepiece has a timepiece movement disposed in a case band. A pipe extends through and is attached to the case band and has a male screw portion on a part of the pipe that extends outside the case band. A crown has a crown head and a crown shaft, and the crown head has a female screw portion threadedly engaged with the male screw portion and disengageable therefrom in response to rotation of the crown head in a loosening direction accompanied by axial movement of the crown head in a direction away from the case band. The crown shaft has one end portion that extends into the pipe and is connected to a hand setting stem of the timepiece movement and another end portion that extends outside the case band beyond the pipe and slidably contacts an inner peripheral surface of the crown head to support the crown head and guide the axial movement thereof. The crown shaft has a force receiving portion for receiving a rotational force to rotate the hand setting stem, and the crown head has a force transmitting portion that releasably engages with the force receiving portion during axial movement of the crown head away from the case band to enable a rotational force to be transmitted to the force receiving portion by rotating the crown head. The end portion of the crown shaft that slidably contacts the inner peripheral surface of the crown head constitutes the force receiving portion of the crown shaft.
US07909501B2 Safety system preventing rotation of unprotected cutting tool
This invention provides a safety system for electrically operated kitchen appliances such as blenders, food processors and the like, to protect users from contact with cutting or macerating implements which, in operation of such appliances, are rotated at reasonably high speeds by powerful electric motors. In order to provide a reliable and robust safety system which is economical to manufacture, the invention utilises a detent member (30, 50) which is rotatable with either the motor or the implement (80). A trapping member (110, 130), which is mobile between two positions along the motor's axis of rotation, but which cannot rotate, traps or releases the detent member, depending upon the trapping member's position. The trapping member (110, 130) is moved into the position at which the detent member (30, 50) is released only when a container (100) is correctly inserted into place to contain the implement. The invention also provides an electrically powered kitchen appliance incorporating such a safety system.
US07909498B2 Lamp holding tool, lighting device for display device using the same, display device using the same and liquid crystal display device using lighting device for display device
A lamp holding apparatus for mounting a lamp to a base member includes a mounting plate having a pair of locking portions protruding to a base side. The locking portion is inserted into a mounting hole provided at the base and capable of being locked to a peripheral edge on its back side. Abutting portions, which protrude to the base side and are capable of abutting the base at the time of mounting, are provided on a bottom surface of the mounting plate that is an opposing surface to the base. The abutting portions are provided at three spots with one of the locking portions interposed therebetween. At the time of mounting, each of the abutting portions abut the base, and the mounting plate is elastically deformed so as to be warped, whereby the locking surface of the locking portion is kept in the state in which it is locked to a peripheral edge of a back side of the mounting hole by its elastic force.
US07909497B2 Backlight assembly, display device having the same, display substrate for the same and method of manufacturing the same
A backlight assembly includes first and second backlight units independently operating based on driving modes, and a light blocking member interposed between the first and second backlight units. The first backlight assembly includes a first light source generating and supplying a first light to a main display part of a display panel in a main mode and turned-off in a sub mode. The second backlight assembly includes a second light source generating and supplying a second light having different color from the first light to a sub display part of the display panel in a main mode and a sub mode.
US07909493B2 Vehicle headlamp
A vehicle headlamp is provided with: a projection lens disposed on an optical axis extending in a front and rear direction of a vehicle; a light source disposed rearwardly of a rear-side focal point of the projection lens; a reflector configured to reflect direct light from the light source forward to converge reflected light toward the optical axis; a movable shade disposed between the projection lens and the light source and configured to blocking a part of the reflected light from the reflector and a part of the direct light from the light source to form a cutoff line in a light distribution pattern; and a bracket formed from a metal plate member and disposed between the projection lens and the light source, wherein the movable shade is rotatably supported on the bracket. An opening portion is formed in the bracket and configured to pass a part of the reflected light from the reflector along the optical axis. A shade portion is provided on the opening portion and configured to cover a gap between the movable shade and an opening edge of the opening portion.
US07909486B2 Light emitting device package and backlight unit and liquid crystal display device using the same
A light emitting device package and other devices using the light emitting device package are discussed. According to an embodiment, the light emitting device package includes a package body; at least one light emitting device disposed in the package body; at least one pair of leads electrically connected with the light emitting device; and a lens over the light emitting device and having at least one recess at an upper portion of the lens, the shortest distance from the light emitting device to a lowest portion of the recess being greater than approximately D1/7 and smaller than approximately D1/2.4, wherein D1 is a diameter of the lens.
US07909484B2 LED-based incapacitating apparatus and method
Apparatus and method for using a light source to incapacitate a subject by a pattern of temporal flashing and/or color flashing of the light source. The light source is preferably an array of light emitting diodes. A rangefinder may be used to control the light output from the light source to avoid exposing a subject to light energy beyond a maximum permissible exposure threshold.
US07909473B2 Method for operating a high-intensity discharge lamp, lamp driver and projection system
There is described a method for operating a high-intensity discharge lamp (2), in which the high-intensity discharge lamp (2) is acted upon by an AC current (I) which commutates between positive pulses (Ip) and negative pulses (In) with a predefined current amplitude (IA), wherein a pulse width ratio between the pulse width of a positive pulse (Ip) and the pulse width of an adjacent negative pulse (In) is modulated in such a way that the mean current value (I) of two successive positive and negative pulses (Ip, In) fluctuates periodically between positive and negative values. In addition, the value of the current amplitude (IA) is modulated in accordance with a predefined modulation function (M). A description is also given of a corresponding lamp driver (10) for a high-intensity discharge lamp (2) and of a projection system (1) comprising such a lamp driver (10).
US07909467B2 Projection apparatus, light source module and beam combiner adapted to projection apparatus
A beam combiner for combining a first color beam, a second color beam, and a third color beam is provided. The beam combiner has a transparent substrate with a first optical surface on which a first reflective film reflecting the first color beam is disposed, and a second optical surface on which a second reflective film reflecting the second color beam is disposed. The first optical surface and the second optical surface are parallel. The second color beam entering the transparent substrate is reflected by the second reflective film and leaves the transparent substrate by passing through the first optical surface, while the third color beam enters the transparent substrate from the second optical surface and leaves the transparent substrate by passing through the first optical surface. The optical paths of the first, the second, and the third color beam are substantially coincident after emerging from the first optical surface.
US07909464B2 Diagnostic ophthalmic lens using extra-low dispersion (ED) material
An improved diagnostic ophthalmic lens using extra-low dispersion material, defined by having an Abbe Number, Vd>80, is provided. Such a single element diagnostic ophthalmic lens may be used for examination of the eye in conjunction with either an Indirect Opthalmoscope or a Slit Lamp Biomicroscope.
US07909460B1 Apparatus for measuring downward rotation amount of eyeball and method for measuring downward rotation amount of eyeball
An apparatus for measuring a downward rotation amount of eyeball that measures a length from a distance-vision eye point to a near-vision eye point of a spectacle lens actually worn by a wearer and attached to a frame having an upper side portion and a lower side portion, includes: a line-of-sight position detecting unit that detects a position of a line of sight corresponding to the distance-vision eye point of the wearer and a position of a line of sight corresponding to the near-vision eye point; and a computing unit that computes a distance between the position of the distance-vision eye point and the position of the near-vision eye point detected by the line-of-sight position detecting unit, wherein the line-of-sight position detecting unit has an arm member that is rotatable at one end and positioned at a lateral position of an eyeball of the wearer, a front detecting mechanism that is disposed on the other end side of the arm member and detects a front position of the eyeball of the wearer, and an arm rotation angle detecting unit that detects a rotation angle of the arm member.