最新美国发明专利
Document Document Title
US08095118B2 Address book remote access and extensibility
Address book data available to a user such as contact information, group information, resource information, and similar data, are retrieved from a plurality of sources by a third party service. The retrieved data is customized for consistent presentation and provided to the user without the user's application having to communicate with individual data sources for retrieving the data.
US08095117B2 System and methods for wireless messaging
Systems and methods for enabling data messaging in a wireless communications system is provided in one embodiment. Wireless messaging is enabled by having a host service send enable messages to a mobile communications device. Once an enable message has been received at the mobile communications device, the generation of an event causes the mobile communications device to send a fetch message to the host service to retrieve messages.
US08095116B2 Method for delivering multimedia files
A technique for delivering a multimedia data file, such as an MMS, from an originator having an originator server associated therewith to a recipient having a recipient server associated therewith is provided. The technique comprises establishing a communication path from the originator to the recipient via the originator server and recipient server. The recipient server receives the data file or portions thereof uploaded to the originator server from the originator. Thereafter, the recipient server individually forwards the data file portions received from the originator server without waiting for receipt of the complete data file.
US08095110B2 Method for a device to perform a function in response to a command from a printer
A method is disclosed of controlling a function of a device. The device is operative to perform the function in response to a command from a printer. The method starts by printing a control interface containing information relating to the function and coded data. The coded data is indicative of an identity of the control interface and of at least one reference point of the control interface. Next, indicating data is received by the printer from a sensing device. The indicating data contains the identity of the control interface and at least one position of the sensing device relative to the control interface. The sensing device forms the indicating data when placed in an operative position relative to the control interface using the coded data. Finally, the printer issues the command relating to the function to the device.
US08095105B2 Method of operating radio receiver implemented in a single CMOS integrated circuit
A single chip superhetrodyne AM receiver is disclosed herein. To compensate for process variations in the implementation of the IC, bias currents setting the operating conditions for various amplifiers and other components in the system are adjusted based on frequency control signals in a PLL circuit in the local oscillator. Since the magnitude of the control signal reflects the process variations, the bias currents are adjusted based on the control signal to offset these variations in other portions of the receiver. To further improve the signal to noise ratio of the receiver, the IF filter is tuned within a range so as not to include any integer multiple or integer divisor of the timing reference frequency. Various techniques are described for enabling a complete superhetrodyne AM receiver to be implemented on a single chip which receives an antenna input signal and outputs a digital data signal.
US08095100B2 Receiver with sigma-delta structure
There is provided a receiver with a sigma-delta structure, the receiver including: a low noise amplifier amplifying a received signal according to a detection signal; a mixer converting an RF signal of the low noise amplifier into an IF signal; a sigma-delta A/D converter converting the IF signal from the mixer 200 into a digital signal; a 1 bit detector determining whether a voltage of the output signal of the mixer is greater than that of a predetermined reference voltage and outputting the detection signal including a result of the determination; and a demodulator obtaining an FFT result with respect to the signal from the sigma-delta A/D converter and adding or subtracting a predetermined gain value to or from the FFT result to calculate received signal strength indication (RSSI).
US08095098B2 Apparatus and methods for network interface and spectrum management
Apparatus and methods for the management of radio frequency spectrum within a network such as a CATV network. In one aspect of the invention, an improved signal reflector apparatus adapted for use in the network is disclosed, the reflector circuit being designed to strongly reflect signal frequencies at the lower end of the CATV reverse band, and/or above the higher end of the forward band, while simultaneously allowing the rest of the reverse band and the entire forward band to pass freely through the device. This selective filtering of the spectrum allows control signals generated within a premises or private network to be directed (by reflection) to other devices within that network. A blocking element (e.g., amplifier) may also be used to provide control of the transmission and attenuation profile of the reflector apparatus. The passage of power signals such as DC or low frequency AC is also optionally provided.
US08095087B1 Polar modulation with coarse and fine FM signals
Apparatus and methods for enhancement of performance in polar modulators are described. In one implementation, an FM signal component is divided into a coarse FM signal and a residue FM signal to be applied to a VCO for generation of a modulation signal. The coarse FM signal may be proportional to a threshold value when the FM signal exceeds the threshold, while the residue FM signal may be proportional to the difference between the FM signal and coarse FM signal.
US08095086B2 FM simulcast broadcast signal broadcast transmission system and receiver device
The invention relates to a FM simulcast broadcast signal, in which an analogue and digital signal are combined for a transmission in a transmission channel with limited bandwidth as a total signal (s), which has a first phase speed (vs), an auxiliary signal (hs) is prepared in the complex region from the modulated digital signal (ds) for transmission and the FM modulated analogue signal (as) for transmission, which has a second phase speed (vas). Said auxiliary signal (hs) is placed in a used or at least largely unused frequency range of the digital signal (ds). The total signal (s) for transmission comprises the auxiliary signal (hs) and the FM modulated digital signal (ds) and the first phase speed (vs) of the total signal (s) corresponds at least approximately to the second phase speed (vas) of the analogue signal (as).
US08095064B2 Satellite broadcast receiving and distribution system
The present invention provides a satellite broadcast receiving and distribution system that will permit for the transmission of vertical and horizontal or left-hand circular and right-hand circular polarization signals simultaneously via a single coaxial cable. The system of the present invention will accommodate two different polarity commands from two or more different sources at the same time. This satellite broadcast receiving and distribution system of the present invention will provide for the signals received from the satellite to be converted to standard frequencies so as to permit for signals to travel via existing wiring which the present day amplifiers can transport in buildings, high-rises, hospitals, and the like so that satellite broadcasting can be viewed by numerous individuals by way of a single satellite antenna.
US08095060B2 Cleaning device and image forming apparatus
A cleaning device includes a cleaning blade that contacts an image carrier and cleans residual toner remaining on the image carrier; a toner pool forming member that is disposed on an upstream side of the cleaning blade in a rotational direction of the image carrier, collects the residual toner that has been cleaned, and forms a toner pool that contacts the cleaning blade and the image carrier; and a toner amount adjusting component that makes the pressure of the residual toner that acts on the image carrier substantially uniform across an axis-of-rotation direction of the image carrier by adjusting the amount of the residual toner in the toner pool in the axis-of-rotation direction of the image carrier.
US08095057B2 Transferring unit and image forming apparatus
A transferring unit of an image forming apparatus that includes: a contacted member; a rotating body that contacts and is spaced away from the contacted member; a rotating body transporting member where a supporting part to rotatably support the rotating body, a contacting external force receiving part to receive a contacting external force that contacts the rotating body with the contacted member, and a spacing external force receiving part to receive a spacing external force that spaces the rotating body away from the contacted member are formed in a single body; and a driver that drives the rotating body transporting member.
US08095049B2 Toner cartridge and image forming apparatus using the same
A toner cartridge is provided removably fitted to a toner supply pipe for supplying toner to a developing device. The toner cartridge includes, as a toner discharging mechanism, a toner discharging portion having a toner discharge port, a toner conveyor screw for conveying toner inside toner container and a shutter for opening and closing the toner discharge port. The shutter has a loosening member. When the toner cartridge is fitted to the toner supply pipe, the loosening member moves inside the toner container as the shutter moves along the toner discharge port.
US08095046B2 Image forming apparatus and image developer used therein
An image forming apparatus, including a surface-traveling latent image bearer bearing a latent image on the surface thereof; an image developer feeding a toner in a two-component developer including the toner and a carrier to the latent image in a developing area facing the latent image bearer to develop the latent image to form a toner image, including a developer stirrer and feeder circulating the two-component developer in circulation paths while stirring the two-component developer, including a driver independently driving the first and the second stirring and feeding members; a transferer transferring the toner image onto a recording material; and a controller controlling the driver such that an amount of the two-component developer fed by the second stirring and feeding member per unit time is relatively larger than that of the two-component developer fed by the first stirring and feeding member when a predetermined increase condition of stirring is satisfied.
US08095043B2 Image forming apparatus and method of abrading photoconductor of the apparatus
An image forming apparatus of the present invention is arranged to hold an intermediate transfer belt and a photoconductive drum out of contact with each other. In a non image formation process in a first mode, the intermediate transfer belt and the photoconductive drum are separated from each other upon completion of the image formation, thereby preventing contamination of the photoconductive drum due to back transfer. In a non image formation process in a second mode, the intermediate transfer belt and the photoconductive drum are separated from each other upon completion of the image formation, and then the intermediate transfer belt and the photoconductive drum are contacted with each other again upon completion of secondary transfer of an image. They are driven for a predetermined time with a speed difference therebetween, thereby abrading the surface of the photoconductive drum to refresh it.
US08095041B2 Fixing device and image forming apparatus
A fixing device includes a pair of fixing members opposing each other and a pressing lever that is rotatable around a shaft. The pressing lever can be moved either to a pressing position in which one of the fixing members is pressed against the other fixing member, or to a pressure releasing position in which the one of the fixing member is separated from the other fixing member. When the pressing lever moves between the pressing position and the pressure releasing position, a first control unit located near an end of the pressing lever controls displacement of the end.
US08095037B2 Corona wire cartridge, corona discharger, and image forming apparatus using the corona discharger
A corona wire cartridge includes: a reel around which a corona wire is wound; a reel holder that rotatably supports the reel; a casing having a receiving portion which receives the reel and the reel holder and a wire drawing opening through which the corona wire is drawn; and an elastic member that movably connects the casing to the reel holder.
US08095031B2 Charging device with vibrating discharge electrode and image forming apparatus
A charging device is provided. A needle-like electrode for charging the surface of a photoreceptor drum is formed with a vibrating portion for vibrating the needle-like electrode by the vibration. The vibrating portion is a piezoelectric bimorph element in which two piezoelectric elements are bonded together and a base portion is formed therebetween. When a voltage is applied to the piezoelectric bimorph element, a free end thereof is curved to vibrate.
US08095030B2 Fixing device and image forming apparatus using the same
A fixing device including a fixing member to melt a toner so as to fix a toner image onto a recording medium, a temperature sensor to detect a temperature of the fixing member, and a heater to heat the fixing member based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor. A driving speed of the fixing member is reduced after printing is completed, and subsequently the fixing member stops driving. The fixing member is controlled to have a desired temperature (Ts) after the fixing member stops driving that is lower than a desired temperature (Tp) during printing.
US08095014B2 Method and apparatus for enhanced free space optical communication in an aviation environment
A free space optical communications link is established, for example, between a commercial aircraft and an airport ground terminal unit, the link being asymmetric in the sense that a downlink to the aircraft has a much higher bandwidth than the reverse link from the aircraft so that the system is adapted for quickly loading large amounts of data (e.g., in-flight entertainment) onto the aircraft while still providing enough bandwidth for the lesser amounts of data (e.g., maintenance data) required to be transmitted from the aircraft to ground. Such adaptation provides significant benefits over standard, commercially available, free space optical communications systems. For example, equipment on the aircraft can be much smaller and lighter than ground unit equipment; and the communications link can allow for greater uncertainty in the alignment of the optical transceivers than do current free space optical communication systems and can allow for operation in harsher environmental conditions.
US08095013B2 Storage device, storage device array, and data processing system
A storage device includes a storage section, a first control section, a communication section, a second control section and a wireless transmission and reception section. The storage section stores data. The first control section controls reading and writing the data from and into the storage section. The communication section transmits and receives the data to and from a higher-level device via a first transmission line. The second control section transmits and receives the data to and from the first control section and the communication section. The wireless transmission and reception section is provided to face a predetermined direction, and wirelessly transmits and receives data to and from another storage device provided in the predetermined direction under control of the second control section.
US08095004B2 Passive optical network system and operation method of the same
In a passive optical network system, in order that by measuring a transmission distance and a transmission time between an OLT and an ONU in operation of the system, if the distance or the time is short, communication is conducted at a high transmission speed to increase a capacity of user; if the distance or the time is long, communication is conducted at a low transmission speed to increase the capacity of user communicating in a state in which a predetermined quality is secured, a main station includes a signal communication circuit to communicate with subsidiary stations at a first or second transmission speed and a controller to measure a transmission distance or a transmission time between the main station and each subsidiary station. Based on a result of the measurement, the controller selects a transmission speed for communication with the subsidiary station.
US08095002B2 Method and apparatus for diagnosing problems on a time division multiple network access (TDMA) optical distribution network (ODN)
A method and corresponding apparatus for diagnosing problems on a time division multiple access (TDMA) optical distribution network (ODN) is provided. An example method may include: (i) measuring no-input signal power level on a communications path configured to carry upstream communications between multiple optical network terminals (ONTs) and an optical line terminal (OLT) in a passive optical network (PON) at a time no upstream communications are on the communications path from the ONTs to the OLT; (ii) comparing the measured no-input signal power level to a threshold; and (iii) generating a notification in an event the threshold is exceeded. Through the use of this method, faults in optical transmitters, such as bad solder joints, can be determined. Such faults may cause errors in parameters, such as ranging or normalization parameters, associated with communications. By determining the faults, the time required to resolve communications errors can be reduced.
US08094998B2 Device for making a beverage, provided with a water boiler
A device for making a predetermined quantity of a hot beverage includes a boiler chamber for heating water and a tubular heating element inside the boiler chamber near the bottom of the boiler chamber. A main portion of the tubular heating element extends along a helical line around a horizontal axis. The bottom of the boiler chamber includes a wall substantially having the shape of a part of cylindrical surface around the horizontal axis.
US08094989B2 Method and apparatus for generating external input table
Provided are a method and apparatus for generating an external input table in a device reproducing an AV signal. The method of generating an external input table includes receiving a reproduction request for reproducing an AV signal from another device and determining whether an external input is assigned to the another device by referring to the external input table, and selectively assigning one of external inputs of the device reproducing the AV signal to the another device according to the determination result. Accordingly, since an external input of an AV device can be dynamically set from an external device while minimizing a user's manipulation, user convenience in terms of setting the external input can be improved.
US08094985B2 Multi-core holey fiber and optical transmission system
A multi-core holey fiber with suppression of crosstalk deterioration among transmitted optical signals in a plurality of cores, and an optical transmission system using the fiber are disclosed. The multi-core holey fiber comprises a plurality of cores arranged separately from each other, and a cladding surrounding the plurality of cores wherein the cladding has plurality of holes arranged in a triangular lattice shape to create hole layers around the plurality of cores. Additionally, d/Λ is not more than 0.5, where Λ [μm] is lattice constant of the triangular lattice, d [μm] is diameter of each of the holes; a distance between adjacent cores is equivalent to not less than six hole layers; the cores arranged farthest from the center of the multi-core holey fiber is surrounded by not less three hole layers; and the sum of the coupling coefficients between the adjacent cores is not more than 1.6×10−5/m.
US08094983B2 Multiple-core optical fiber with couplings between the cores
An optical fiber includes a cladding, a first core, and a second core. At least one of the first core and the second core is hollow and is substantially surrounded by the cladding. At least a portion of the first core is generally parallel to and spaced from at least a portion of the second core. The optical fiber includes a defect substantially surrounded by the cladding, the defect increasing a coupling coefficient between the first core and the second core.
US08094977B2 Intrusion detection system for use on single mode optical fiber using a simplified polarimeter
A telecommunications optical fiber is secured against intrusion by detecting manipulation of the optical fiber prior to an intrusion event. This can be used in a non-locating system where the detection end is opposite the transmit end or in a locating system which uses Fresnel reflections and Rayleigh backscattering to the transmit end to detect and then locate the motion. The Rayleigh backscattering time sliced data can be stored in a register until an intrusion event is detected. The detection is carried out by a polarization detection system which includes an optical splitter which is manufactured in simplified form for economic construction. This uses a non-calibrated splitter and less than all four of the Stokes parameters. It can use a polarimeter type function limited to linear and circular polarization or two linear polarizers at 90 degrees.
US08094973B2 Content aware image resizing for text and contone images
A method, computer readable medium, and computing device for resizing images. A digital image arranged in a rectangular array of pixels is received for resizing in either a horizontal direction or a vertical direction. An energy value is computed for each of the pixels, and pixels are connected to form extended 8-connectivity seams, with each seam having a cumulative energy value. The digital image is segmented into segments corresponding to lines of text and/or images. A seam is selected to best maintain proportionality of white space in the segments when the seam is either replicated or deleted. The selected seam then replicated or deleted. At least the seam selection and replication or deletion is repeated until the resized image is the desired size. The resized image is then outputted to a display screen, storage device, and/or printer.
US08094970B2 Road image creation system
[Object]To provide a system that is able to generate road images with the effects of obstructions such as parked vehicles eliminated.[Solution means]A road image generating system which films road surfaces via an optical system mounted on a vehicle and generates road images by synthesizing the display contents of particular pixels in the road surface images obtained, and in which the display contents of multiple pixels obtained by filming of the same road surface at differing times and/or with differing optical systems are blended.
US08094962B2 Image analysis method, image analysis program, pixel evaluation system having the image analysis method, and pixel evaluation system having the image analysis program
In the case where a digital camera is used for evaluating a display quality of an image display panel, moire is generated due to a shift of a pixel pitch between a pixel of a panel and a pixel of a digital camera, and thus, a great influence is given as measurement deviation. The present invention carries out a panel display quality evaluation at low cost and short time with relieved influence of moire by treating a value, which is obtained by recognizing a coordinate of a panel pixel in a shot image based on an image for detecting a coordinate and positional information thereof with high accuracy and by calculating average luminance by panel pixel unit based on a center position of a coordinate, as representative luminance in each pixel of the panel, in a panel evaluation method of shooting an image display panel with a digital camera.
US08094961B2 Generation of image data with correction for optical misfocus utilizing fractional powers of the fourier transform operator
Fractional Fourier transform properties inherent in lens systems and other light and particle-beam environments may be exploited to correct optical system misfocus utilizing fractional Fourier transform approximations rendered by numerical methods. The corrective fractional Fourier transform power value may be determined automatically or by human operator. This power value is used to calculate a Fractional Fourier transform correction operation and, if useful, to back-calculate corresponding phase restoration information. The fractional Fourier transform correction operation is applied to image data. In an embodiment, phase restoration information is also applied to image data. The image correction can be applied to imaging systems obeying fractional Fourier optics including integrated optics, optical computing, particle beam systems, and can be incorporated into film processing machines, photo editing software, VCRs, camcorders, as well as video editing, video surveillance, video conferencing systems and other types of products and service facilities in computers, machines, and over the Internet.
US08094960B2 Spectral calibration of image pairs using atmospheric characterization
A system (100) for processing remotely acquired imagery is provided. The system (100) includes a storage element for receiving imagery data defining a first image of a panchromatic image type using a sensor characterized by a panchromatic spectral response curve and a second image of a multi-spectral image type using at least one other sensor characterized by a plurality of multi-spectral response curves associated with a plurality of optical bands. The first image has a first spatial resolution and a first spectral resolution. The second image has a second spatial resolution lower than the first spatial resolution and a second spectral resolution higher than that first spectral resolution. The system (100) also includes a processing element configured for deriving a radiation transfer model based on meta-data associated with one of the first and the second image and for determining a set of spectral weights for down-sampling the second image to the first spectral resolution based on the radiation transfer model and the panchromatic and the multi-spectral response curves.
US08094955B2 Image reducing apparatus and reduced image generating method
In a case where a padded orthogonally transformed block obtained by orthogonally transforming a padded image block of 8×8 pixels to which padding data has been added has been recorded as compressed image data, the padded orthogonally transformed block is subjected to an inverse orthogonal transformation to thereby restore the padded image block. Padding data contained in the restored padded image block is replaced with a portion obtained by copying a portion of the original image, thereby generating a modified image block. In a case where the true width of an edge pixel corresponding to an edge among the pixels forming the image block is less than 0.5, the pixel is obtained by adjusting the level of a pixel adjacent to the edge pixel in such a manner that it will have a level conforming to the width and level of the edge pixel.
US08094954B2 Image processing apparatus, image processing method and image processing program that performs a level conversion on multilevel input image data
A binary conversion error value as to neighboring pixels stored in an error value storage portion is added to a pixel density of a subject pixel, which is read from an input image storage portion, at a ratio based on an error distribution matrix, so that a modified density is calculated. A determination is made as to whether the modified density is greater than or equal to a threshold value, and an output image is binarized based on the determination, and stored in an output image storage portion. An output density, which is a value of the output image for calculating the binary conversion error value, is set to a value corresponding to a print mode currently set. By subtracting the output density from the modified density, the binary conversion error value generated in the binarization process for the subject pixel is calculated.
US08094953B2 Adaptive and progressive protection of fixed images encoded in wavelets
A process for secured distribution of fixed numerical images according to a nominal format resulting from numerical encoding in wavelets, represented by a original stream including a packet relating to organization of a binary sequence that contains at least a block that regroups numerically encoded simple elements according to a mode specified inside the stream and utilized by decoders that are capable of reconstructing or decoding it to be able to correctly display the image including modifying at least one of the simple elements according to at least a substitution operation including extracting the simple element, followed by its replacement by lure data, modifying a principal stream to conform to a nominal format including modified blocks and packets, and by a path that is separate from the principal stream of complementary numerical information and allowing reconstruction of the original stream from calculations, on destination equipment, as a function of the principal stream and the complementary information.
US08094949B1 Music methods and systems
The disclosure details a variety of applications of steganographic encoding and decoding of auxiliary information in physical and media objects. In particular, digital watermarks embedded in media content are used to initiate automated transactions associated with the content and to link creative content with information or transactions.
US08094942B1 Character recognition for overlapping textual user input
Techniques described herein may recognize handwritten characters that are written at least partially over the top of one another that are input to a computing device. The handwritten characters may be formed of one or more strokes. A user may write characters or parts of words over approximately the same area of graphical user interface (i.e., on top of each other) without having to wait for a timeout between character input and without having to select a button or provide another input indicating the character is complete before entering input for another character. Once a character is at least partially recognized, a graphical indication corresponding to the user input displayed on a screen may be altered. Such alterations may include fading or changing size or location of the graphical indication.
US08094935B2 Representative color extracting method and apparatus based on human color sense and data histogram distributions
A histogram generating section generates a histogram for each channel of a color space which shows colors of pixels constituting an image, in which tone levels of said channel are divided into plural intervals as classes, and frequency of appearance of tone levels of the pixels in each interval is shown as degree. An interval extraction section extracts the intervals in each of which the frequency of appearance becomes local maximal value. A score calculation section calculates scores of the extracted intervals. The score indicates visibility of color to human based on human color sense. An interval selection section selects one or more extracted interval to be representative color, based on the calculated scores. A representative color extraction section generates the representative colors based on tone levels of the selected intervals.
US08094932B2 Color image correcting apparatus and color image correcting method in which the averaged high frequency image is superimposed on the low frequency image
A color image correcting apparatus includes: a high frequency image generating unit, generating a high frequency image having a high frequency component extracted from a color original image, represented by pixel values of a plurality of channels, for each channel; an average high frequency image generating unit, generating an average high frequency image by assigning an average pixel value, obtained by averaging pixel values of pixels of the channels of the high frequency image in the same coordinate, as pixel values for the channels in the same coordinate, respectively; a low frequency image output unit, generating a low frequency image having a low frequency component extracted from the original image; and a correction image generating unit, generating a corrected image of the original image by superposing the average high frequency image on the low frequency image.
US08094931B2 Method of color components compression
A method of color components compression is provided. In the present method, when receiving video data encoded by a 4:4:4 sampling format, color components of each set of neighboring pixels in the video data is down-sampled and a first difference of the color components between the video data before and after down-sampling in a down-sampling mode is calculated. Then, the color components of each pixel in the video data are truncated and a second difference of the color components between the video data before and after truncation in a truncation mode is calculated. The first difference and the second difference are compared and the down-sampling mode or the truncation mode that has a smaller difference is selected to compress the video data into a 4:2:2 sampling format.
US08094930B2 Digital photo frame capable of classifying images and method thereof
A method for classifying image is provided. The method includes: selecting an image; extracting parameters of the selected image and displaying the extracted parameter in a reminder menu; selecting a extracted parameter; defining the selected parameter as the image classifying standard; creating an image classification folder named with the image classifying standard; retrieving images according to the image classifying standard; and storing the images that were retrieved into the created folder.
US08094926B2 Ultrafine pattern discrimination using transmitted/reflected workpiece images for use in lithography inspection system
A technique for discriminating a specific pattern, such as an assist pattern, from an integrate circuit pattern of a workpiece by using transmission and reflection images of the workpiece pattern is disclosed. A pattern discrimination device includes an optical image acquisition unit for acquiring a transmissive image of a workpiece having a pattern and a reflective image of the workpiece pattern simultaneously, and a specific pattern detection unit which detects for extraction a specific pattern from among pattern shapes of the transmissive and reflective images in conformity with a distinguishing condition of the specific pattern. A workpiece pattern inspection apparatus using the device is also disclosed.
US08094915B2 “In vitro” diagnostic method for diseases affecting human or animal tissues
The present invention relates to an “in vitro” diagnostic method for diseases affecting human or animal tissues, in particular for the diagnosis of diseases involving inflammation and fibrosis in human or animals, more particularly for liver diseases. More particularly, the present invention relates to a method for diagnosing “in vitro” abnormal morphological conditions in human or animal tissues affected by a chronic inflammatory disease, which comprises observing an image of a biopsy sample of the human or animal body in which said abnormal condition can be detected and metrically quantifying said abnormal morphological condition, wherein said step of metrically quantifying comprises detecting the extent of the fibrotic and of the inflammatory tissue by means of: i) calculating the fractal corrected perimeter (Pf) and/or area (Af) of the collagen islets, and ii) calculating the percentage area of the clustered inflammatory cells by means of the formula ACINF/AB·100, wherein ACiNF is the actual area of the inflammatory cells belonging to clusters and AB is the area of the biopsy sample.
US08094908B2 Method and system for estimating randoms in imaging data
A method for estimating randoms in PET imaging data includes acquiring imaging data that includes a plurality of singles and a plurality of randoms, where the randoms exhibit a non-exponential decay, generating a randoms correction estimate based on the non-exponential decay, and applying the randoms correction estimate to the imaging data to generate corrected imaging data. The method further includes generating an image using the corrected image data. An imaging system and computer readable medium programmed to estimate randoms is also provided.
US08094907B1 System, method and computer program product for fast conjugate phase reconstruction based on polynomial approximation
A fast conjugate phase reconstruction method for MRI is based on a polynomial expansion of the off-resonance phase accrual term. The expansion is truncated and can be a Taylor or Chebyshev expansion.
US08094901B1 Systems and methods for matching, naming, and displaying medical images
A method of matching medical images according to user-defined matches rules. In one embodiment, the matched medical images are displayed according user-defined display rules such that the matched medical images may be visually compared in manner that is suitable to the viewer's viewing preferences.
US08094894B2 Radioactive-emission-measurement optimization to specific body structures
Systems, methods, and probes are provided for functional imaging by radioactive-emission-measurements, specific to body structures, such as the prostate, the esophagus, the cervix, the uterus, the ovaries, the heart, the breast, the brain, and the whole body, and other body structures. The nuclear imaging may be performed alone, or together with structural imaging, for example, by x-rays, ultrasound, or MRI. Preferably, the radioactive-emission-measuring probes include detectors, which are adapted for individual motions with respect to the probe housings, to generate views from different orientations and to change their view orientations. These motions are optimized with respect to functional information gained about the body structure, by identifying preferred sets of views for measurements, based on models of the body structures and information theoretic measures. A second iteration, for identifying preferred sets of views for measurements of a portion of a body structure, based on models of a location of a pathology that has been identified, makes it possible, in effect, to zoom in on a suspected pathology. The systems are preprogrammed to provide these motions automatically.
US08094887B2 Method and system for analyzing image identifications to identify an entity
A method for analyzing image identifications to determine whether image identifications identify an entity (e.g., license plate of a vehicle). Identification sets are received from at least one optical character recognition (OCR) engine. Each identification set includes a character string and an associated confidence level. Each character string is derived by the respective OCR engine from an image of the entity. An identification set is received from each OCR engine. The character strings are compared, resulting in identifying all conflicting character strings, wherein any two non-identical character strings are considered to be conflicting. The confidence level in each identification set is analyzed, resulting in determining whether each confidence level exceeds a predefined threshold confidence level. At least one rule is applied to the preceding results to ascertain whether or not the entity has been identified. An indication of whether or not the entity has been identified is stored.
US08094886B1 Thermal wake/vessel detection technique
A computer-automated method for detecting a vessel in water based on an image of a portion of Earth includes generating a thermal anomaly mask. The thermal anomaly mask flags each pixel of the image initially deemed to be a wake pixel based on a comparison of a thermal value of each pixel against other thermal values of other pixels localized about each pixel. Contiguous pixels flagged by the thermal anomaly mask are grouped into pixel clusters. A shape of each of the pixel clusters is analyzed to determine whether each of the pixel clusters represents a possible vessel detection event. The possible vessel detection events are represented visually within the image.
US08094882B2 Image display method and system thereof
The present invention relates to an image display method and system thereof. When displaying an image, a picture is captured. A calculated number of human eyes is determined from the picture to quantify the attraction of the image for the crowd. And then, a reasonable charged fee is calculated.
US08094877B2 Variable message coding protocols for encoding auxiliary data in media signals
Variable message coding protocols enable greater flexibility in encoding auxiliary data in media signals. One such protocol employs a version identifier that indicates the type of coding used to process an auxiliary data message before it is embedded in a host media signal. This version identifier specifies the type of error robustness coding applied to a variable message. The error robustness coding may be varied to alter the message payload capacity for different versions of auxiliary data embedding and reading systems. Another protocol uses control symbols to specify the format and variable length of the variable message.
US08094874B2 Material context analysis
A process for contextual analysis of radiographic image data can be embodied as a method, system, and computer software program, among other things. The process can include receiving a radiographic image and performing a region analysis including identifying a region within the radiographic images having an estimated atomic number within a predetermined range and determining if the region is in an expected location. The process can also include performing a material feature analysis to identify whether a feature present in the radiographic image is associated with an obscuration characteristic. The process can include providing context information and generating, as output, a region of interest in the radiographic image, the region of interest being determined based upon a set of rules and the region analysis, the material feature analysis, and the context information.
US08094872B1 Three-dimensional wavelet based video fingerprinting
A method and system generates and compares fingerprints for videos in a video library. The video fingerprints provide a compact representation of the spatial and sequential characteristics of the video that can be used to quickly and efficiently identify video content. Because the fingerprints are based on spatial and sequential characteristics rather than exact bit sequences, visual content of videos can be effectively compared even when there are small differences between the videos in compression factors, source resolutions, start and stop times, frame rates, and so on. Comparison of video fingerprints can be used, for example, to search for and remove copyright protected videos from a video library. Further, duplicate videos can be detected and discarded in order to preserve storage space.
US08094867B2 Speaker, yoke thereof and method for manufacturing yoke
A speaker includes a frame, a diaphragm, a cover, a magnetic device, and a voice coil. The cover and the diaphragm are both disposed on a first side of the frame, and the cover covers the diaphragm. The magnet device is disposed on a second side of the frame. The voice coil is disposed on the magnetic loop generated by the magnetic device and integrated with the diaphragm. The magnetic device includes a yoke, a magnet, and a pole piece. The yoke includes a protrusion by bending for the magnet and the pole piece to be mounted upon.
US08094855B2 Inverse horn loudspeakers
In a low frequency transducer system a multi-compression chamber, inverse horn structure is employed in combination with a resonance-distortion filter chamber. The filter chamber effectively expands the effective enclosure volume at low frequencies and connected to one of the compression chambers filter parasitic resonances and distortion and allowing the system to more efficiently reproduce low frequencies while being able to use smaller diameter transducers and maintaining good system sensitivity. Compression chambers are organized for constant or continuous compression on a section-by-section basis throughout the inverse horn system.
US08094850B2 BTE/CIC auditory device and modular connector system therefor
An earpiece auditory device is described which includes a behind-the-ear component shaped to fit behind the ear of a user. The behind-the-ear component can also have at least one microphone and processing circuitry, where the processing circuitry is used to processes audio signal from the microphone. The device also includes a speaker sized to fit in the ear canal of a user, and an ear mold holding the speaker in place. The ear mold can also be position to touch the bony portion of the ear canal and provide sound attenuation in the ear canal. A connector physically and electrically connects the behind-the-ear component to the speaker. The connector is capable of being used to insert and remove the speaker and ear mold from the ear canal of the user.
US08094848B1 Automatically configuring hearing assistive device
An adjustable hearing assistive device that automatically configures to the hearing needs of a user. The adjustable hearing assistive device can be in the form of a hearing aid that includes a presence activated sensor adapted to receive setting data, hearing processing circuitry adapted to receive sound and manipulate an audio signal, and a controller adapted to configure the processing circuitry in response to the setting data so that sound output to a user is in accordance with the hearing needs of the user. The setting data can include settings for a default mode of operation or temporary settings for use when the user is in a particular environment. Setting data can be provided by a hearing profile tag in the form of an RFID tag and the presence activated sensor can be an RFID reader.
US08094843B2 Low-profile piezoelectric speaker assembly
A low-profile speaker assembly comprises a substrate and a substantially plan piezoelectric element disposed in a plane substantially parallel to the substrate and mechanically connected to the substrate at one or more edges. A tuning mass is attached to a face of the piezoelectric element, to improve low-frequency performance of the speaker assembly. In some embodiments, the tuning mass is disposed on the surface of the piezoelectric element facing the substrate. The substrate, which may comprise a printed circuit board, may include a cut-out region arranged to allow movement of the tuning mass within the cut-out region.
US08094840B2 Thermal sound generating device
A thermoacoustic generating apparatus (1) is for generating acoustic waves by temperature modulation of solids, and is provided with: a thermoelement layer (12); a first electrode layer (11), laminated on one surface of the thermoelement layer; and a second electrode layer (13), laminated on the other surface of the thermoelement layer.
US08094837B2 Processing an audio input signal to produce a processed audio output signal
An audio input signal is processed to produce a processed audio output signal. An audio input signal is received as an original signal. The audio input signal is dynamically filtered to produce a first stage signal consisting of a selected frequency band of the input signal. Gain applied to the first stage signal is dynamically controlled in response to a control signal to produce a second stage signal. The control signal is derived from the first stage signal. Processing the original signal in combination with the second stage signal to produce a processed audio output signal. Processing the original signal in combination with the second stage signal and the first stage signal to produce a processed audio output signal.
US08094834B1 Remote auditory spatial communication aid
The present invention provides a means for two or more remotely-located individuals to communicate information about the spatial coordinates of a location of mutual interest in a more rapid, robust, and intuitive manner than is possible with any current voice communication system.
US08094831B2 Supplemental audio output box
An audio system for a motor vehicle is provided, including an audio head unit that generates an audio signal. One or more external speakers are provided that receive the audio signal and produce an acoustic output within the motor vehicle. A supplemental output interface receives the audio signal through a hard-wired connection to the audio head unit. The supplemental output interface comprising at least one output speaker connection, for providing a removable speaker connection.
US08094827B2 Sound reproducing apparatus and sound reproducing system
The present invention provides a sound reproducing system and a sound reproducing apparatus that can provide a high realistic sensation to a user, without having to do a troublesome task on the user's side.A surround-sound system (100) includes: an array speaker system (20) that is formed with speaker units SPU having the same characteristics; and a signal processing apparatus (120) that drives the speaker units SPU independently of one another and amplifies an audio signal. The signal processing apparatus (120) includes: a signal processing control unit (260) that calculates each filter coefficient for each of the speaker units so as to generate reverberant components to be reflected by a wall surface of a listening room (10) when the audio signal or test signal is amplified through the array speaker system (20) based on preset reverberant characteristics; and a filtering unit (250) that divides the audio signal or test signal by the same number as the number of speaker units so as to obtain unit signals, and then performs signal processing on each of the unit signals divided based on each of the filter coefficients.
US08094813B2 System and method for modulus obfuscation
Disclosed herein are methods for obfuscating data on a client, on a server, and on a client and a server. The method on a client device includes receiving input data, storing an operation value in a secure location, performing a modulus obfuscation on the operation value, performing a modulus operation on the operation value and the input data, performing a modulus transformation on the operation value and the input data to obtain client output data, and checking if the client output data matches corresponding server output data. The method on a server device includes receiving input data, performing a modulus transformation on the input data to obtain a result, performing a plain operation on the result and an operation value to obtain server output data, and checking if the server output data matches corresponding client output data from a client device that (1) receives input data, (2) stores an operation value in a secure location, (3) performs a modulus obfuscation on the operation value, (4) performs a modulus operation on the operation value and the input data, and (5) performs a modulus transformation on the operation value and the input data to obtain client output data. In an optional step applicable to both clients and servers, the method further includes authenticating the client input data and the server input data if the server output data matches the client output data. In one aspect, server input data and client input data pertain to a cryptographic key.
US08094808B2 Unpowered twisted pair loopback circuit for differential mode signaling
A method and apparatus provide an IP telephone or similar device with a mechanism to receive and at least briefly loop back discovery signals received from a telecommunications device such as an Ethernet switch while not permitting the loop back of data packet signals. No mechanical relays are required and the circuitry can be fully integrated on an integrated circuit using commonly available techniques, if desired.
US08094806B2 Input devices and their use
A touch-sensitive input device has an exposed, continuous surface defining a planar area, and a grid of sense elements coextensive with the area of the exposed surface and responsive to engagement of the exposed surface by an operator to establish a position of said engagement of the exposed surface. The exposed surface varies in elevation across its planar area to form a series of tactile features. The exposed, continuous surface is affixed to the grid of sense elements. An electronic circuit is configured to interpret large-scale capacitance variations of the grid as an intended input from the operator in a region identified by the capacitance variation, and to interpret small-scale capacitance variations of the grid as a position of engagement of the exposed surface by the operator.
US08094804B2 Method and apparatus for assessing the status of work waiting for service
The present invention provides a system and method for assessing the status of work waiting for service in a work queue or a work pool. Work items are placed in the work queue or work pool and have a service time goal. The work items in the work queue or work pool are scanned and a required queue position for each work item is calculated according to the amount of time remaining prior to the expiration of the service time goal and weighted advance time for servicing of work items in the work queue or pool. An array of counters has elements which correspond to required queue positions. Upon the calculation of the required queue position for a work item, the counter corresponding to the required queue position is incremented. When all of the work items are scanned, the array of counters is analyzed to predict a future state of the work queue or work pool.
US08094803B2 Method and system for analyzing separated voice data of a telephonic communication between a customer and a contact center by applying a psychological behavioral model thereto
A method for analyzing a telephonic communication between a customer and a contact center is provided. According to the method, a telephonic communication is separated into first and second constituent voice data. One of the first and second constituent voice data is analyzed. The analysis consist of translating one the constituent voice data into a text format and applying a predetermined linguistic-based psychological behavioral model to the translated voice data. In applying the behavioral model, the translated voice data is mined, and behavioral signifiers associated with the psychological behavioral model are identified in the voice data. The behavioral signifiers are automatically associated with at least one of a plurality of personality types associated with the psychological behavioral model. Behavioral assessment data is generated which corresponds to the analyzed voice data.
US08094794B2 Advertising message referrals
Advertising referral methods and systems allow a first user to refer advertisements of interest to other users, taking advantage of pre-existing social networks. A referral server may coordinate a referral by either receiving a referral message from the first user for forwarding to another user, or by receiving notification of the referral message. Information about the referral may be stored in a database. If another user accesses the referred advertisement, additional information may be received by the referral server and stored in the database. The first user may be credited with inducements based on the referred advertisement and whether or not another user accessed it.
US08094793B1 Billing cycle division system, method, and computer program product
A system, method and computer program product are provided for distributed billing. In use, service usage information associated with a plurality of customers is distributed to a plurality of billing processor platforms in substantially a billing cycle-independent manner, for processing purposes. To this end, less billing processor platform resources are wasted.
US08094791B2 Biometric systems and methods for enhanced caller identification and call intercept
A system includes at least one service switching device in communication with a first calling device and a second calling device. The system further includes at least one service control point in communication with the at least one service switching device and is configured to route incoming and outgoing calls between the first and the second calling devices, wherein the service control point is configured to collect and save biometric keystrokes from a calling party to identify the calling party to a called party.
US08094787B2 Method and system for utilizing information for efficient recording solutions in a complex multi-media recording environment
System and method for recording telephone calls comprising receiving computer telephony integration fields from first and second sources, identifying which of the CTI fields are physical CTI fields to be used for locating audio to be recorded, identifying which of the CTI fields are logical CTI fields, identifying one of the physical CTI fields received from the first source and one of the logical CTI fields received from the second source as being related to a specific telephone call and recording said telephone call based on audio location information from the physical CTI field associated with the call.
US08094784B2 X-ray sources
The present invention is directed to an anode for an X-ray tube. The X-ray tube has an electron aperture through which electrons emitted from an electron source travel subject to substantially no electrical field and a target in a non-parallel relationship to the electron aperture and arranged to produce X-rays when electrons are incident upon a first side of the target, wherein the target further comprises a cooling channel located on a second side of the target. The cooling channel comprises a conduit having coolant contained therein. The coolant is at least one of water, oil, or refrigerant.
US08094781B1 Portable X-ray back scattering imaging systems
Methods and systems for inspecting objects are disclosed. A portable X-ray backscatter imaging system includes a microfocus X-ray tube to emit X-rays at an object under inspection. A track system rasters the microfocus X-ray tube to inspect the object. A portable hood may enclose the microfocus X-ray tube and the track system against the object A rotation mechanism rotates the microfocus X-ray tube to angle the emitted X-rays at the object. A plurality of solid state detectors receive scattered X-rays to generate an image of the object.
US08094766B2 Tracker circuit and method for automated test equipment systems
A digital data signal capture circuit for synchronization of received digital data signals includes a transition detector for determining a state transition of the received digital data signal. The transition detector samples the received digital data signal at a first time, a second time and a third time and determines whether the transition occurs between the first time and the second time and whether it occurs between the first time and third time and generates an increment/decrement signal indicating a position for the transition. A strobe adjust circuit generates a strobe signal based on the increment/decrement signal. A capture circuit captures the received digital data signal using the strobe signal.
US08094762B2 Joint estimation of MIMO channels and noise correlation for wireless systems with multiple receive antennas
A radio communication sent by a transmitter having M transmit antennas is received by a receiver having N receive antennas, where M is a positive integer greater than or equal to one and N is positive integer greater than one. Thus, N output signals, one for each receive antenna, are received. The signal transmitted from each transmit antenna includes predetermined pilot symbols known by the receiver and information symbols to be determined by the receiver. Weights for estimating each of M×N single-input/single-output channels between transmit and receive antennas are determined based on jointly processing pilot symbols received on all of the N receive antennas. The M×N channels are estimated based on the determined weights, and those estimated channels are used to determine the information symbols. An iterative procedure is used to estimate the M×N channels using a noise correlation matrix estimate and to estimate the noise correlation matrix using the M×N channel estimates.
US08094761B2 Uplink feedback for supporting MIMO operation in the LTE downlink
A quantization method of transmission of channel quality information (CQI) includes measuring two measurements SINRs and calculating a difference (i.e., Delta SINR) between the two measurements of the SINRs; determining a CQIbase (base channel quality information) based on one of the two measurements SINRs and a known quantization table for the CQIbase, and simultaneously receiving cell-specific or UE-specific parameters transmitted from a base station and configuring a quantization table defining a mapping method of CQIdelta (delta channel quality information) and the Delta SINR and determining the CQIdelta based on the obtained Delta SINR and the configured quantization table; and transmitting the resulting CQIdelta and CQIbase.
US08094760B2 Channel estimation
Aspects describe channel estimation in an OFDM system. Baseline DFT-based channel estimation can be performed and scaling can be applied to mitigate distortion in the DFT-based estimations. In some aspects, baseline DFT-based channel estimation can be performed and tones for which DFT-based estimate is deemed unreliable can have MMSE based processing applied locally. If orthogonal sequence is deemed excessive, orthogonal sequence cancellation can be applied prior to the MMSE based processing.
US08094754B2 Frequency hold mechanism in a clock and data recovery device
A system and method are provided for holding the frequency of a non-synchronous communication signal in a clock and data recovery (CDR) device frequency synthesizer. The method initially acquires the phase of a non-synchronous first communication signal having a first frequency, and divides a first synthesized signal by a selected frequency ratio value, creating a frequency detection signal having a frequency equal to a reference signal frequency. In response to losing the first communication signal and subsequently receiving a second communication signal with a non-predetermined second frequency, the frequency ratio value is retrieved from memory based upon the assumption that the second frequency is the same, or close to the first frequency. Using a phase-frequency detector (PFD), the reference signal, and the frequency ratio value, a second synthesized signal is generated having an output frequency equal to first frequency. Using a rotational frequency detector (RFD), the second communication signal, and the second synthesized signal, a second synthesized signal is generated having an output frequency equal to second frequency.
US08094753B2 Device for estimating symbol timing or frequency offset with reliability of demodulated signal determined
A PHS mobile phone set is provided with an offset estimation device which estimates an offset of a signal received through digital communication and makes use of the estimated offset as correction information for offset correction. The received signal is corrected in offset by use of the estimated offset and then demodulated. In the offset estimation device, the estimated offset is updated on the basis of the control signal indicating whether or not the demodulated digital signal is reliable.
US08094747B2 Transmit methods for CCFI/PCFICH in a wireless communication system
A method of transmitting a control channel format indicator (CCFI), also known as PCFICH (Physical Control Format Indicator Channel), in case where the length of a coded CCFI is not an integer multiple of three, including mapping a plurality of two-bit CCFI into a codebook with each component codeword having three bits; generating a sequence of codewords selected from the codebook by repeating the selected component codeword for predetermined times; generating a codeword by concatenating the sequence of the selected component codewords with the original CCFI bits; and transmitting the codeword carrying information of CCFI. The method further includes a step of generating a permutation of each of the four codewords by assigning K repetitions of the three-bit component codeword to the number of K resource units respectively and mapping remaining K bits of each of the four codewords separately to the number of K resource units.
US08094737B2 Adaptive pilot structure to assist channel estimation in spread spectrum systems
The present invention relates generally to methods for generating a dynamic pilot symbol structure in spread spectrum communication systems, and in particular to the use of pilot symbols by user equipment in channel estimation. In one form, the method includes, allocating basic pilot symbols (402) at the beginning of each data chunk (404, 406) and spread over the plurality of sub-carrier frequencies; and selectively replacing data symbols (408) in each data chunk (400) with adaptive pilot symbols (410) according to the speed of the user equipment.
US08094736B2 Apparatus and method for estimating noise power in frequency domain
An apparatus and a method for estimating noise power in frequency domain are provided. The apparatus and the method are applied to a state where no packet is transmitted over the channels. And the apparatus and the method acquire noise in every sub-carrier, and obtain the transmission status in every sub-channel to adjust bit-loading in every sub-carrier and improve the spectral-efficiency.
US08094735B2 Methods and apparatus for maximum ratio combining for duplicated signals in OFDMA systems
In accordance with a method for processing a received orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA) signal that comprises a duplicated signal, sub-carriers within the OFDMA signal may be arranged into a duplicated format. The OFDMA signal may be equalized and combined after the sub-carriers have been arranged into the duplicated format. The equalizing and combining may be performed in accordance with a maximum ratio combining (MRC) scheme. The OFDMA signal may be demapped after the equalizing and combining is performed.
US08094733B2 Apparatus and method for feeding back channel quality information and scheduling apparatus and method using the same in a wireless communication system
An apparatus and method are provided for feeding back channel quality information and performing scheduling using the fed-back channel quality information in a wireless communication system based on Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA). In the OFDMA wireless communication system, forward performance degradation due to a decrease in an amount of reverse channel quality information is reduced, and also an increase in the reverse load due to channel quality information feedback is suppressed. A base station controls power of a physical channel using information fed back from a mobile station. In a method for feeding back channel quality information from the mobile station, sub-band-by-sub-band channel quality information is measured and channel-by-channel quality information of a number of channels is transmitted in order of sub-bands of better channel quality information. Average channel quality information for a total band is measured and transmitted.
US08094721B2 Methods and apparatuses for selecting a mode within a compression scheme
In one embodiment, the methods and apparatuses detect a current macroblock and an adjacent macroblock within the scene; detect a mode of the adjacent macroblock; and select a skip mode as a mode for the current macroblock based on the mode of the adjacent macroblock.
US08094719B2 Streaming methods and systems
Various embodiments provide methods and systems for streaming data that can facilitate streaming during bandwidth fluctuations in a manner that can enhance the user experience. In one aspect, a forward-shifting technique is utilized to buffer data that is to be streamed, e.g. an enhancement layer in a FGS stream. Various techniques can drop layers actively when bandwidth is constant. The saved bandwidth can then be used to pre-stream enhancement layer portions. In another aspect, a content-aware decision can be made as to how to drop enhancement layers when bandwidth decreases. During periods of decreasing bandwidth, if a video segment does not contain important content, the enhancement layers will be dropped to keep the forward-shifting of the enhancement layer unchanged. If the enhancement layer does contain important content, it will be transmitted later when bandwidth increases.
US08094718B2 Motion-compensated spatio-temporal wavelet compression of video data with optimised permutation of the frames
In video encoding, the video frames are spatio-temporally filtered for reduction of spatial and temporal redundancy before they are entropy encoded. Known filtering schemes consider temporally successive frames and are static. It is probable but not necessary that successive frames are most efficient to encode. Therefore, a plurality or all possible frame order permutations are considered for a group of frames (GOP) and evaluated based on a global criterion, which is the sum of local criterion values computed over successive subsets of permuted frames. The local criterion value is deduced from motion estimation processed on each considered set of frames. The best ordering is chosen as the one that minimizes the global criterion value.
US08094715B2 Video signal encoding device and video signal encoding method
Included are: a prefilter (101) for outputting, based on filter characteristics control data, predetermined frequency components in an input video signal as current image data; encoding means (116) for subjecting the current image data to an encoding process, and outputting encoding parameters together with a bit stream corresponding to current image data as a result of the encoding process; and filter control means (117) for outputting the filter characteristics control data that is set based only on one or two of the encoding parameters.
US08094714B2 Speculative start point selection for motion estimation iterative search
A speculative start point selection for motion estimation iterative search improves the efficiency and quality of the integer-pel motion estimation iterative search by speculatively selecting the start position of the iteration. The start position is selected by comparing the Sum of Absolute Differences (SAD) value of a 0 motion vector, a predicted motion vector and a global motion vector (GMV) and selecting the position with the smallest SAD value. A refinement scheme with a threshold improves the efficiency and quality of the motion estimation iterative search by performing several comparisons to ensure the proper motion vector is selected. Applications of this improved motion estimation search include stabilizing an image as well as many other applications where motion vectors are used.
US08094713B2 Method and system for viewer quality estimation of packet video streams
A method and system for the estimation of the effect of packet loss on a viewer's subjective perception of a packet video stream. The method involves estimating a quality metric for every frame in the video stream, accumulating such metrics over time, and transforming the result into a Mean Opinion Score (“MOS”) which represents the viewer's subjective perception of the video stream. The method takes into account various factors such as frame rate, frame types and sizes, decoding algorithms, propagated error rates, and the effect of video content on viewer perception. The method can be used for both encrypted and unencrypted video streams.
US08094711B2 Adaptive reference picture generation
A video encoder and corresponding method are provided for encoding an input picture or image block using a prediction from a reference-only picture, where the encoder includes a picture buffer for storing a previously coded picture, and a reference processing unit in signal communication with the picture buffer for generating the reference-only picture from a previously coded picture; and the corresponding method includes receiving a substantially uncompressed image block, filtering (714) a previously coded picture to create an adaptive reference, motion compensating the adaptive reference, subtracting the motion compensated adaptive reference from the substantially uncompressed image block, and encoding the difference between the substantially uncompressed image block and the motion compensated adaptive reference. Video decoder and corresponding method are also disclosed.
US08094702B2 System and/or method for detecting multi-tone jamming
The subject matter disclosed herein relates to a system and method for processing a signal received from a satellite positioning system (SPS) in the presence of a multi-tone jammer. In one particular implementation, processing of a signal may be altered in response to detection of one or more conditions.
US08094701B2 Channel estimation for high data rate transmission using multiple control channels
For high rate data transmission, channel estimates may be computed using multiple control channels. An exemplary method comprises determining a transmission parameter for a data channel, generating first and second channel estimates derived respectively from first and second control channels, and selectively combining the first and second channel estimates to generate a combined channel estimate. In some embodiments, the second channel estimate may be used to refine the first channel estimate before the selection of the final channel estimate.
US08094697B2 Method and device for the demodulation of satellite radio navigation signals
For demodulating radio navigation signals (s(t)) transmitted in spread spectrum and comprising a data channel modulated by a navigation message and a pilot channel not modulated by a navigation message, the data channel and the pilot channel are combined into one multiplexing scheme so as to modulate a carrier, this method consists in applying de-spreading processing to the pilot and data channels' signals and in demodulating the de-spread data signal (rd) in order to obtain the navigation message , the demodulation of the de-spread data signal (rd) used to obtain the navigation message is performed using the carrier (rp) obtained from the dispreading processing of the pilot channel.
US08094688B2 Voltage supply unit for diagnosing electrical disconnection occurring in communication system and apparatus using the voltage supply unit
A voltage supply unit is provided for a communication system provided with a network including a transmission path that consists of a main line and plural branch lines, which are formed as a differential two-wire type of transmission line consisting of first and second communion lines. This unit comprises a DC voltage source and an application device. The DC voltage source outputs a specified voltage different from a reference voltage of the transmission path. The application device applies, to the transmission path, the specified voltage in response to a command to be given. The unit is provided in a fault diagnosis apparatus or a node connected to the communication system. The specified voltage disables communication of only a certain node and to allow the remaining nodes to communicate with each other. In the certain node, an electrical disconnection is caused in either the first and second communications.
US08094686B2 Method and apparatus for simulating packet delay variation of a multi-switch network
A packet delay variation simulation system has a packet generator, a packet delay variation generator, and a packet delay analyzer to analyze delayed packets. The packet delay variation generator has multiple delay distribution modules that use both a deterministic delay process and a statistical delay process packet for determining a packet's delay. The packet delay variation generator may utilize different probability density functions to describe various portions of measured packet data. That is, measured packet delay information is analyzed and information from this analysis is used to construct a total delay model for a network. The delay may include a pre-determined deterministic delay offset as well as one or more variable statistical delay offsets.
US08094684B2 Link training scheme for displayport source repeaters
A system and a method for configuring communication between a source device and a sink device using captured configuration data are described. The source device communicates with a repeater, which modifies received data to facilitate transmission to the sink device, using a communication channel. The communication channel transmits video and/or audio data from the source device to the sink device. An auxiliary communication channel is used to communicate configuration data between the source device and sink device to optimize transmission and receipt of data through the communication channel. The repeater is coupled to the auxiliary communication channel and passively captures configuration data from the auxiliary communication channel. The repeater uses a subset of the captured configuration data (e.g., data rate, voltage swing, pre-emphasis, etc.) to modify how the repeater transmits data to the sink device using the communication channel.
US08094678B2 Method of and apparatus for providing reserved bandwidth to ethernet devices over switched ethernet including a home network wall plate having a combined IEEE 1394 and ethernet modified HUB
A combined IEEE 1394-2000 and ethernet network allows devices to operate according to both the IEEE 1394-2000 protocol and the ethernet protocol. The devices within the network are able to send IEEE 1394-2000 isochronous data, IEEE 1394-2000 asynchronous data and ethernet data. Both IEEE 1394-2000 and ethernet devices are coupled to modified hubs (MHUBS) to form a local cluster. The MHUBS are coupled to an ethernet switch which controls communications between devices in different local clusters. The ethernet switch and the MHUBS obey an isochronous interval in which all isochronous data transfers and asynchronous data transfers from ethernet devices with an allocation of reserved bandwidth will be allowed. The ethernet switch sends a periodic isotick signal to begin the isochronous interval. Bandwidth remaining after the isochronous interval is then allocated to the IEEE 1394-2000 asynchronous traffic, until the start of the next isochronous interval.
US08094674B2 Method and system for implementing network device access management
A method and system for implementing network device access management. The system includes at least one device domain storage unit and at least one Access Server (AS), and the method groups all network devices into at least one device domain managed by at least one AS; sets a uniform communication attribute for each device domain; determines, by the AS, whether a communication device belongs to the device domain managed by the AS according to information carried in a service request from the communication device, and if so, the communication attribute set for the network device is obtained, and a correspondence relationship between an identifier of the network device and the obtained communication attributes is created and stored; otherwise, access management on the communication device served as a user device is performed.
US08094669B2 System and method for store and forward routing for distributed destinations
The present invention enables a store-and-forward service providing an efficient and reliable forwarding of messages stored in a message queue to a distributed destination. It provides customers with high availability and scalability for applications such as JMS queues and topics. It achieves load balancing and failover amongst all individual members of the distributed destination while ensuring that each message is delivered exactly once.
US08094668B1 Physical layer device including a serial media independent interface (SMII)
A physical layer device includes a serial media independent interface (SMII). The SMII includes a first terminal configured to receive a first data stream. The first data stream is received at the first terminal in accordance with a first frequency. The SMII further includes a transmit circuit configured to (i) sample, on a rising edge of a clock, the first data stream received at the first terminal to generate a second data stream to be transmitted from the physical layer device, and (ii) sample, on a falling edge of the clock, the first data stream received at the first terminal to generate a third data stream to be transmitted from the physical layer device. Each of the second data stream and the third data stream has a second frequency, and the first frequency is twice the second frequency.
US08094658B2 System and method for providing premium transport in a DOCSIS-compliant cable network
A system and method for providing premium transport in a DOCSIS-compliant cable network. An edge server in a DOCSIS-compliant cable network maintains a list of preferred content providers (PCPs). For each PCP, the PCP list comprises matching criteria. The edge server monitors the header of incoming packets for the matching criteria. A packet that matches the matching criteria is modified by the edge server causing the packet to be associated with a “premium” downstream service flow. Packets sent in response to a “preferred” packet are parsed by a cable modem and routed upstream according to a “premium” upstream service flow.
US08094656B2 Method and apparatus for network bandwidth conservation
Methods and apparatus for conserving bandwidth within a network based on two or more different service levels. In an exemplary embodiment, programming that is simulcast on two or more program channels is mapped to one physical channel during periods when the programming is scheduled at only one service level (e.g., standard definition), thereby conserving bandwidth on the network that would otherwise be consumed by the simultaneous broadcast on the two or more channels. When the programming service level becomes heterogeneous across the channels (e.g., SD and HD simulcast), physical channel(s) supporting the HD content are provided within a local service area only “on-demand” using, for example, a switched digital channel allocation. Accordingly, no HD broadcast occurs within a given area until at least one user requests it, thereby further conserving network bandwidth.
US08094655B2 Communication scheme with arbitration mechanism for cases of address initialization and server setting
The other communication devices are prohibited to transmit the address initialization request for a prescribed period of time since one communication device transmitted the address initialization request for an address managed by a control protocol, so that the conflict of the initialization requests for the same address will not occur and the problem of assigning the address in overlap to the communication devices will not arise. Also, the other communication devices are prohibited to transmit the address server detection request packet for a prescribed period of time since one communication device transmitted the address server detection request packet, so that the conflict on the network by a plurality of address server detection requests will not occur, and it is possible to determine the MAC address server uniquely.
US08094654B2 Information transfer in electronic modules
An electronic assembly includes electronic modules connected in a series circuit such that a particular number of input connections of one of the electronic modules is connected with the particular number of output connections of another of the electronic modules. Each electronic module is configured to pass on an information which each electronic module receives on an input side at an nth of each electronic module's input connections to an nth of each electronic module's output connections. The input connections and output connections of each electronic module are arranged in a same geometric arrangement. Each electronic module is configured to receive, irrespective of a geometric orientation of the input connections of a given electronic module in relation to a geometric orientation of the output connections of a corresponding electronic module connected with the given electronic module on the input side of the given electronic module, at the same of the given electronic module's input connections, a particular information which is transmitted by the same output connections of the corresponding electronic module.
US08094651B2 Emergency call services for wireless network roaming
A method and apparatus for emergency call services for wireless network roaming. An embodiment of a method includes receiving a request for an emergency telephone call from a mobile device, the mobile device communication over the Internet, the mobile device roaming in a visited wireless network when the emergency call is made. The method further includes establishing a session for an emergency services call and connecting the mobile device to emergency services.
US08094650B2 Method and apparatus for routing data
A method and apparatus for handling internet access telephone calls made via cable company telephone services. A head end data terminal receives cable signals and converts them into individual signals. An intelligent switch detects signals destined for an internet service provider and routes those signals on a separate path to the internet service provider. A central switch routes the other signals along a telephone network. A computer program can control the steps of receiving cable signals, converting them into voice band signals, routing the signals that are not for the intended recipient to a central switch, multiplexing the signals for the intended recipient together, and sending the multiplexed signals to the intended recipient.
US08094646B2 Controlling jittering effects
Effects of variation in computational latency can be controlled by using a processor to perform computations associated with a signal processing process, each computation related to processing an input sample to generate an output, and allocating a processing cost per computation that is less than a maximum processing cost of the processor for performing any one of the computations and greater than an average processing cost of the processor for performing the computations. The allocated processing cost for a computation is an allocated time period between receipt of the input sample and generation of the output for the computation. A task requiring a processing time greater than the allocated processing cost is handled as a source of jitter in the signal processing process.
US08094627B2 Method for the support of high bit rate services in a mobile communication system
One object of the present invention is a method for the support of high bit rate services in a mobile communication system, said method comprising a step wherein a network entity signals to a Mobile Station, according to signalling procedures used in case of access via a broadband Access Network, at least one bit rate higher than the maximum bit rate specified in case of access via a non broadband Access Network, based on bit rates as defined according to signalling procedures used in case of access via said non broadband Access Network.
US08094623B2 Method and apparatus for choosing a sector based on a scaled forward link metric
Methods and apparatus for selecting a serving sector in a high rate data (HDR) communication system are disclosed. An exemplary HDR communication system defines a set of data rates, at which a sector of an Access Point may send data packets to an Access Terminal. The sector is selected by the Access Terminal to achieve the highest data throughput while maintaining a targeted packet error rate. The Access Terminal employs various methods to evaluate quality metrics of forward and reverse links from and to different sectors, and uses the quality metrics to select the sector to send data packets to the Access Terminal.
US08094622B2 Mobile communication system and method
A mobile communication system enables data reception in correct order, with regard to a reversed data order caused by a route change in data transfer from a source base station to a target base station and in direct transmission from a gateway to a target base station is provided. In the mobile communication system, at the time of handover processing performed accompanying a movement of the user equipment from the source base station to the target base station, the source base station transfers to the target base station, a part of packet data not yet transmitted to the user equipment, among packet data received from the upper-level device, and when transferring the part of packet data, the source base station assigns transfer start information, indicating a start of transfer, to a header in a top packet of the untransmitted packet data.
US08094620B2 System and method for providing voice service in a multimedia mobile network
User Equipment (UE) receiving non-voice packet switched services in an Evolved Universal Mobile Telecommunications System Terrestial Radio Access Network (eUTRAN) cell undergoes handover to a circuit switched GSM/Edge Radio Access Network (GERAN)/UTRAN cell in response to a voice service page. An eNodeB of the active eUTRAN cell uses a measurement report history for the UE to select an available circuit switched cell for handover. The voice service is established in the circuit switched domain of a GERAN/UTRAN cell to ensure service continuity regardless of UE mobility that would otherwise not be possible if the voice service was established in the eUTRAN cell. A Gs-like interface between a Mobile Switching Center (MSC) of the CS Core Network and the Mobility Management Entity (MME) of the Evolved Packet Core provides an interface for page requests and location update procedures to be performed.
US08094613B2 Enhanced high traffic density CDMA wireless systems
A method of assigning calls to a hot cell site. A hot cell site is a cell site for carrying highly concentrated traffic, which cell site supports only a proper sub-set of the frequencies supported by other (basic) cells. It is surrounded by hot zones of other (basic) cell sites. When mobile stations enter the hot zone, an extra percentage of powered-on, but idle mobile stations is tuned or re-tuned to one of the frequencies supported by the hot cell. Advantageously, this increases the traffic carried by the hot cell. In accordance with one feature of the invention, if a hot cell is approaching the limit of its call carrying capacity, it will hand-off calls to a neighboring cell. Advantageously, the hot cell usage is optimized.
US08094604B2 Method of inputting data in a wireless terminal and wireless terminal implementing the same
A method of inputting data into a wireless terminal and wireless terminal implementing the same are provided, in which first data is input in data input mode, at least one pixel value of the first data detected is registered at a predetermined reference position, second data is input, at least one pixel value of the second data detected at the predetermined reference position is registered, the registered pixel value of the first data is compared with the registered pixel value of the second data, and the pixel value of the second data comprising the same value as the registered pixel value of the first data is tracked. Accordingly, an opposite direction of the data moving direction is determined as the moving direction of the wireless terminal.
US08094601B2 Base station and mobile station
Problems can be solved by a base station to which a location of a mobile station is registered and which performs a radio communication with the MS, and when receiving distribution information, divides the distribution information into N pieces, and incorporates the divided distribution information in N pieces of reception channels to successively transmit them to the MS. It can be achieved by a MS which is in a waiting state of a BS and which performs a radio communication with the BS, and when receiving distribution information which is incorporated in reception channels and divided, stores the distribution information, and when determining completion of the distribution of the distribution information, constructs the N pieces of divided information and displays it.
US08094596B2 Wireless personal area network Zigbee receiver and receiving method thereof
There are provided a wireless personal area networks (WPAN) Zigbee receiver and a receiving method thereof that can obtain a spreading gain by a reduction in data rate. A wireless personal area network Zigbee receiver receiving a signal packet including a plurality of functional units having a plurality of symbols, the plurality of functional units each repeated as many as a predetermined extension number according to an aspect of the invention includes: a preamble detection unit detecting a, and generating a preamble synchronization; and an SFD synchronization unit comparing, each symbol of SFD units included in the signal packet with a predetermined SFD reference symbol continuously and repeatedly as many as the extension number, and generating an SFD synchronization signal when each of the symbols of the SFD units is equal to the SFD reference symbol as many as the extension number.
US08094595B2 Method and apparatus for packet communications in wireless systems
Techniques for transmitting and receiving data in an efficient manner to potentially improve capacity for a wireless network and achieve power savings for a wireless device are described. The techniques utilize a Continuous Packet Connectivity (CPC) mode comprised of multiple (e.g., two) discontinuous transmission (DTX) modes and at least one (e.g., one) discontinuous reception (DRX) mode. Each DTX mode is associated with different enabled uplink subframes usable for transmission from the wireless device to the network. Each DRX mode is associated with different enabled downlink subframes usable by the network for transmission to the wireless device. The wireless device may send signaling and/or data on the enabled uplink subframes and may receive signaling and/or data on the enabled downlink subframes. The wireless device may power down during non-enabled subframes to conserve battery power. Mechanisms to quickly transition between the DTX and DRX modes are described.
US08094594B2 Method for creating a peer-to-peer immediate messaging solution without using an instant messenging 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.
US08094593B2 Communication apparatus, communication program, and communication method
A communication apparatus of the present invention used for communicating with an external communication device is provided with a memory section to store a correspondence table associating users of external communication devices with contact addresses for contacting the users via the communication apparatus; a communication section to transmit data destined for the contact addresses and/or receive data originated from the contact addresses; a retrieval section that retrieves, from the users in the correspondence table, users with an elapsed period longer than a threshold value, the elapsed period being a period elapsed after a final communication destined for or originated from contact addresses of the retrieved users; a display section to display a list of the retrieved users; and a communication control section that, upon selection of a user from the displayed list, causes the communication section to perform a communication destined for the contact address associated with the selected user.
US08094592B2 Communications system providing adaptive polling based upon positive and negative polling events and related methods
A communications system may include at least one data storage device for storing messages for respective users, and a plurality of mobile wireless communications devices each associated with a respective user for accessing the messages stored on the at least one data storage device. Moreover, the communications system may further include an adaptive polling engine for polling the at least one data storage device for stored messages and providing the polled messages to mobile wireless communications devices of respective users. The adaptive polling engine may advantageously learn respective user usage patterns for each mobile wireless communications device, and change a respective rate of polling for each mobile wireless communications device based thereon.
US08094587B2 Method for forwarding and storing session packets according to preset and/or dynamic rules
A system and method for recording and/or monitoring data by forwarding it, with or without analyzing or otherwise filtering the data itself are provided. According to embodiments of the invention, the system and method are operative over IP networks. According to an embodiment of the invention, there is provided a system and method for forwarding data according to at least one characteristic of the data, such as the session's metadata for example, without analyzing or otherwise filtering the data itself. According to another embodiment of the invention, before the data is forwarded to the recording device, pre-processing algorithms are performed according to a system preset or according to one or more rules.
US08094583B2 Arrangement and method relating to routing of IP traffic in mobile wireless networks
The present invention relates to a proactive optimized link state protocol and a node with routing means supporting such a protocol implementing multipoint relaying for distribution of control messages, e.g. comprising hello messages, which are extended and comprise neighbour information, link status information and resource related information, and second control messages, e.g. TC messages comprising information relating to MPR selectors which are extended to also hold information of a shared information repository (4) adapted to hold generic service related information. Internal information repositories (231i, 232, 233) are extended to additionally hold resource related information for neighbours, neighbour links and multipoint relay selectors. The protocol implements cross-layer (21, 22, 23) communication.
US08094580B2 Distributed admission control
A first network client requests initiation of a data transfer with a second network client. An admission control facility (ACF) responds to the initiation request by performing admission analysis to determine whether to initiate the data transfer. The ACF sends one or more packets to the second network client. In response, the second network client sends acknowledgment packets back to the ACF. The ACF performs admission analysis based on the packets sent and the acknowledgment packets, and determines whether the data transfer should be initiated based on the analysis. The admission analysis may be based on a variety of factors, such as the average time to receive an acknowledgment for each packet, the variance of the time to receive an acknowledgment for each packet, a combination of these factors, or a combination of these and other factors.
US08094576B2 Integrated switch tap arrangement with visual display arrangement and methods thereof
An arrangement in a network device for monitoring network traffic is provided. The arrangement includes a set of network ports, which includes a set of input network ports for receiving the network traffic and a set of output network ports for outputting the network traffic from the network device. The arrangement also includes a switch chip, wherein the switch chip is configured at least for analyzing the network traffic. The arrangement further includes a set of monitoring ports, which is configured to receive the network traffic from the set of network ports. The arrangement yet also includes a tap module, which is configured at least for intercepting at least part of the network traffic flowing through the network device and forwarding at least part of the network traffic to at least one of the set of monitoring ports.
US08094575B1 Routing protocol extension for network acceleration service-aware path selection within computer networks
In general, techniques are described by which a path through a network may be selected based on service information. For example, a network device may include one or more interfaces, a control unit, and an integrated network acceleration device that provides a first set of services. The interfaces may receive service information that describes a second set of services provided by another network device. The control unit then determines, based on the service information, whether the other device shares any services in common with the integrated device. If so, the control unit selects a path through the network that includes the other device and causes the integrated device to apply the shared service to a portion of the traffic. The interfaces forward this portion along the determined path to the other device such that the other device applies the shared network acceleration services to the portion of the network traffic.
US08094574B2 Method and apparatus for wireless receiving
Aspects of the disclosure provide a wireless user equipment that can receive and demodulate a paging indicator with a reduced time duration. Therefore, the wireless user equipment may have a reduced wake-up time. The wireless user equipment can include a receiving module configured to receive signal components including a first signal transmitted over a common pilot channel (CPICH) and a second signal transmitted over a paging indicator channel (PICH) during a time duration. The second signal can include a paging indicator in the time duration. Further, the wireless user equipment can include a processor module configured to select a plurality of correlations in the second signal received during the time duration based on correlations in the first signal received during the time duration, and to extract the paging indicator from the plurality of correlations in the second signal. Additionally, the wireless user equipment can include a controller module configured to control the wireless user equipment according to the paging indicator.
US08094560B2 Multi-stage multi-core processing of network packets
Techniques for multi-stage multi-core processing of network packets are described herein. In one embodiment, work units are received within a network element, each work unit representing a packet of different flows to be processed in multiple processing stages. Each work unit is identified by a work unit identifier that uniquely identifies a flow in which the associated packet belongs and a processing stage that the associated packet is to be processed. The work units are then dispatched to multiple core logic, such that packets of different flows can be processed concurrently by multiple core logic and packets of an identical flow in different processing stages can be processed concurrently by multiple core logic, in order to determine whether the packets should be transmitted to one or more application servers of a datacenter. Other methods and apparatuses are also described.
US08094559B1 Consumption of a permitted data rate by grouped data streams
This document describes tools that enable data network equipment to use its permitted data rate or physical maximum rate even if one of its links fail or it transmits more data on some links than others. To do so, the tools may track how much of a permitted data rate is used by a group of physical links. If the group is using more than the permitted data rate, the tools may limit the group to that rate. If some of the physical links in the group fail, the tools enable the group to use either its permitted data rate or the physical maximum rate of the group. In addition, the tools allow unique permitted data rates in two directions by a group of physical links. The tools may be used at ingress or egress modules within equipment depending upon the application and implementation.
US08094557B2 Adaptive fast retransmit threshold to make TCP robust to non-congestion events
Mechanisms are disclosed for adjusting a fast re-transmit threshold (FRT) value for transmitting data streams over a computer system. One embodiment includes receiving, by a sender, a current fast re-transmit threshold value for a packet from a receiver. Further, these mechanisms include decreasing the size of the congestion window of the sender, and re-transmitting the packet to the receiver in network communication with the sender. Further still, the mechanisms include counting, by the sender, a number of dupacks after re-transmitting the packet until arrival, at the sender, of an acknowledgement (ACK) for the packet. Yet further, the mechanisms include determining, based on the size of the congestion window and the counting, a value of the FRT value. If the sender receives the ACK for the packet in less than one round trip time, then this may be a re-ordering problem for re-setting the FRT value.
US08094556B2 Dynamic buffering and synchronization of related media streams in packet networks
Mechanisms are disclosed for using two or more buffers, at a common receiving node, to reduce the effects of jitter, packet loss, and/or packet latency and/or synchronize different types of packets. Specifically, the two or more buffers can be used to temporarily store packets from different media streams that have a common timestamp and/or sequence number. Characteristics of the two or more buffers can then be independently controlled to accommodate the different media streams.
US08094552B1 Adaptive buffer for frame based storage communications protocols
Methods of managing a receive buffer in a receiving communications terminal are disclosed, the receive buffer including a data memory organized into a plurality of individually addressable data words and into a plurality of segments, each of which is larger than one addressable data word but smaller than a maximum frame size. The methods include receiving a frame of data from an originating communications terminal, storing the received frame of data in the receive buffer beginning at a selected segment of a group of reserved segments, and releasing a number of the reserved segments equal to the number of segments in a maximum frame size less an actual number of segments occupied by the received frame. A frame buffer available notification is sent to the originating communications terminal in response to a determination that a number of unreserved segments available in the receive buffer after storing the received frame is larger than the maximum frame size, and a number of segments in the receive buffer equal to the maximum frame size are reserved.
US08094546B2 Device and method for compensating crosstalk in transmission links
In an embodiment, a method of compensating crosstalk on a plurality of transmission links is disclosed. The method includes providing first values depending on crosstalk among a plurality of transmission links. Each first value corresponds to one of a plurality of crosstalk channels, and each crosstalk channel represents signal transfer from one of the plurality of the transmission links to a different one of the plurality of transmission links. Second values specific to the transmission links are provided. A number of crosstalk channels are selected from a plurality of crosstalk channels interfering with signal transmission on transmissions links. The selecting depends on quotients of the first values and the second values.
US08094537B2 Information storage medium and method of recording/reproducing the same
An information storage medium has user data areas and additional data areas, and sync patterns to distinguish the additional data areas from the user data areas. The information storage medium includes a user data area in which user data is recorded and an additional data area located in at least one of areas before and after the user data area. Second sync patterns used in the additional data area are different from first sync patterns used in the user data area.
US08094534B2 Information reproducing apparatus and method, and computer program
An information reproducing apparatus (1) is provided with: a waveform shaping device (14) for performing waveform shaping on a read signal (RRF) read from a recording medium (100), on the basis of a reference amplification factor; a correcting device (18) for correcting waveform distortion occurring in a read signal corresponding to at least a long mark, of the read signal on which the waveform shaping is performed; and a waveform equalizing device (15) for performing a waveform equalization process on the read signal in which the waveform distortion is corrected, the waveform shaping device arbitrarily increases the reference amplification factor.
US08094524B2 Apparatus and method for recording and/or reproducing data to/from recording medium
An apparatus and method for recording and/or reproducing data to/from a recording medium are disclosed. The recording medium includes at least one physical access control (PAC) cluster, the at least one PAC cluster including information for managing recording to and/or reproducing from the recording medium, wherein each PAC cluster includes a PAC header, common to each PAC cluster, and a PAC specific information area, which includes information specific to each PAC cluster, wherein the PAC header includes a segment information identifying at least one segment area in a user data area of the recording medium by a position information of the each segment area.
US08094515B2 Seismic data visualizations
Implementations of various technologies for a method for processing seismic data. A first portion of a record of pre-stack seismic data may be displayed in a three-dimensional XYZ (3-D XYZ) space. A selection may be received of a second portion of the record of the pre-stack seismic data within the first portion. One or more attributes may be determined that define the second portion. One or more regions may be identified within the record of the pre-stack seismic data having the attributes that define the second portion.
US08094507B2 Command latency systems and methods
Examples of command latency systems and methods are described. In some examples, phase information associated with a received command signal is stored, a received command signal is propagated through a reduced clock flip-flop pipeline and the delayed command signal is combined with the stored phase information. The reduced clock flip-flop pipeline may use a clock having a lower frequency than that used to issue the command signal. Accordingly, fewer flip-flops may be required.
US08094500B2 Non-volatile memory and method with write cache partitioning
A portion of a nonvolatile memory is partitioned from a main multi-level memory array to operate as a cache. The cache memory is configured to store at less capacity per memory cell and finer granularity of write units compared to the main memory. In a block-oriented memory architecture, the cache has multiple functions, not merely to improve access speed, but is an integral part of a sequential update block system. Decisions to write data to the cache memory or directly to the main memory depend on the attributes and characteristics of the data to be written, the state of the blocks in the main memory portion and the state of the blocks in the cache portion.
US08094499B2 Method using a one-time programmable memory cell
A one-time programmable device includes a controller, a protection system, a static storage element and a latch, which can be referred to as a latch-based one-time programmable (OTP) element. In one example, the static storage element includes a thin gate-oxide that acts as a resistance element, which, depending on whether its blown, sets the latch into one of two states.
US08094490B1 Nonvolatile loop magnetic memory
A nonvolatile loop magnetic memory having a magnetically writeable nonvolatile magnetic memory element and a loop magnetic shunt. The loop magnetic shunt has a slot through a loop of the loop magnetic shunt, the slot forming first and second ends in the loop magnetic shunt, the first and second ends arranged to focus a magnetic field on the magnetically writeable nonvolatile magnetic memory element. The magnetically writeable nonvolatile magnetic memory element is located between the first and second ends of the loop magnetic shunt. A magnetic write coil is wrapped around the loop magnetic shunt.
US08094488B2 Set algorithm for phase change memory cell
Memory devices and methods for operating such devices are described herein. A method is described herein for operating a memory cell comprising phase change material and programmable to a plurality of resistance states including a high resistance state and a lower resistance state. The method comprises applying a first bias arrangement to the memory cell to establish the lower resistance state, the first bias arrangement comprising a first voltage pulse. The method further comprises determining whether the memory cell is in the lower resistance state, and if the memory cell is not in the lower resistance state then applying a second bias arrangement to the memory cell. The second bias arrangement comprises a second voltage pulse having a pulse height greater than that of the first voltage pulse.
US08094486B2 Pad design with buffers for STT-MRAM or other short pulse signal transmission
A Spin Transfer Torque Magnetoresistive Random Access Memory (STT-MRAM) bit cell array is provided. The STT-MRAM array includes a STT-MRAM bit cell and an input net coupled to the STT-MRAM bit cell. The STT-MRAM array includes a pulse signal input pad and a buffer coupled between the pulse signal input pad and the input net. In an aspect, the input net is one of a bit line, a word line, and a source line.
US08094481B2 Resistance variable memory apparatus
A resistance variable memory apparatus (10) of the present invention comprises a resistance variable element (1) which is switched to a high-resistance state when a voltage exceeds a first voltage and is switched to a low-resistance state when the voltage exceeds a second voltage, a controller (4), a voltage restricting active element (2) which is connected in series with the resistance variable element (1); and a current restricting active element which is connected in series with the resistance variable element (1) via the voltage restricting active element (2), and the controller (4) is configured to control the current restricting active element (3) so that a product of a current and a first resistance value becomes a first voltage or larger and to control the voltage restricting active element (2) so that the voltage between electrodes becomes smaller than a second voltage when the element is switched to the high-resistance state, while the controller (4) is configured to control the current restricting active element (3) so that an absolute value of a product of the current and the second resistance value becomes the second voltage or larger and an absolute value of a product of the current and the first resistance value becomes smaller than the first voltage, when the element is switched to the low-resistance state.
US08094480B2 Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device has a plurality of memory cells including memory elements to store information by varying resistance values of the memory elements. The semiconductor device further has a reference system circuit enables measurement of distribution of the resistance values for the plurality of memory cells.
US08094471B1 Power supply using double latch circuit for automatic input voltage range programming
A power supply includes a rectifier circuit having a rectifier mode and a voltage doubler mode. An AC switch is coupled to the rectifier circuit and switches the rectifier circuit into the rectifier mode when a higher AC line voltage is supplied and a voltage doubler mode when a lower AC line voltage is supplied. A control circuit is connected to the AC switch and detects the higher or lower AC line voltages and is operable for latching the rectifier circuit in the rectifier mode when the higher AC line voltage is detected and in the voltage doubler mode when the lower AC line voltage is detected. The latch circuit maintains a latched configuration in either the rectifier or voltage doubler mode during voltage transients and in the rectifier mode during start-up transients.
US08094469B2 Current balanced push-pull inverter circuit
This inverter circuit includes first and second switching elements and an output transformer which has a first primary winding connected in series between the first switching element and the second switching element and a second primary winding for obtaining an output voltage. The inverter circuit also includes a first voltage source, a second voltage source, and a control unit. The first voltage source is connected between a first connection point at which the first primary winding is connected to the second switching element, and the first switching element, and applies a voltage to the first switching element via the first primary winding. And the second voltage source is connected between a second connection point at which the first primary winding is connected to the first switching element, and the second switching element, and applies a voltage to the second switching element via the first primary winding. The control unit alternately turns the first switching element and the second switching element ON and OFF. And this inverter circuit also may include first and second recovery snubber circuits for recovering electrical charge in snubber capacitors.
US08094461B2 Printed board and bus bar assembly
A printed board includes a printed board body having a first side, a second side opposing the first side, and a through-hole; a printed conductor disposed on the first side of the printed board body; and a bus bar disposed on the second side of the printed board body, the bus bar including a terminal that extends through the through-hole. The terminal includes a plurality of branched terminal portions at a position corresponding to an interior of the through-hole, and at least one of the branched terminal portions is bent and attached to the printed conductor.
US08094459B2 Microelectronic substrate including embedded components and spacer layer and method of forming same
A microelectronic substrate, a method of forming the same, and a system including the same. The microelectronic substrate comprises: a conductive layer; a spacer layer disposed onto the conductive dielectric layer; a dielectric build-up layer disposed onto the spacer layer, the spacer layer being made of a material that has a lower shrinkage than a material of the embedding dielectric-build-up layer during curing, and a higher viscosity than a material of the embedding dielectric build-up layer in its pre-cure form and during curing; and active or passive microelectronic components embedded within the dielectric build-up layer.
US08094456B2 Polishing pad
To provide a polishing pad which is insusceptible to clogging of groove with abrasive particles and grinding dusts during polishing, and leads to little decrease in polishing rate even after long-term continuous use. A polishing pad of the present invention has a polishing layer formed of polyurethane resin foam having fine-cells, and asperity structure formed in a polishing surface of the polishing layer, and is featured in that the polyurethane resin foam is a reaction cured product between isocyanate-terminated prepolymer containing high-molecular-weight polyol component and isocyanate component, and a chain extender, and contains a silicon-based surfactant having combustion residue of not less than 8 wt %.
US08094452B1 Cooling and power grids for data center
A facility is described that includes one or more enclosures defining an interior space, a plurality of power taps, a plurality of coolant supply taps, and a plurality of coolant return taps. A flow capacity of the supply taps and a flow capacity of the return taps can be approximately equal over a local area of the interior space. The plurality of power taps, the plurality of supply taps, and the plurality of return taps can be divided into a plurality of zones, with taps of each zone are configured to be controllably coupled to a power source or a coolant source independently of the taps of other zones. The taps can be positioned along paths, and paths of the power taps can be spaced from associated proximate paths of supply and return taps by a substantially uniform distance along a substantial length of the first path.
US08094451B2 Onboard computer equipped with a stand-alone aeraulic cooling device
The present invention proposes an onboard computer equipped with a stand-alone aeraulic cooling device. Its main benefit is that it improves the effectiveness of the aeraulic cooling of onboard computers, thanks to the provision of ducts (N1, N2, N3) routing a cool air stream (FA) to the hot spots of the electronic modules (E1, E2, E3, E4).
US08094449B2 Fastening structure of computer peripheral device
A fastening structure of a computer peripheral device includes a combining slot and a fastening body disposed on a housing member of the computer peripheral device. The fastening body has a first restricting surface and a second restricting surface. The computer peripheral device is clamped to a first object through the first restricting surface of the fastening body and the combining slot, or a second object is hooked to the computer peripheral device through the second restricting surface of the fastening body.
US08094436B2 Plug-in circuit breaker assembly
A circuit breaker assembly includes a housing, an electrical bus structure coupled to the housing, and a number of first plug-in members coupled to the electrical bus structure. A number of circuit breakers include a first surface and a second plug-in member disposed opposite the first surface. The second plug-in member of each of the number of circuit breakers is mated with a corresponding one of the number of first plug-in members. A plate member is removably coupled to the housing. The plate member includes a first surface and an opposite second surface. The first surface of the number of circuit breakers engages the opposite second surface of the plate member in order to maintain mating of each of the number of circuit breakers with the corresponding one of the number of first plug-in members.
US08094435B2 Modular high-power drive stack system and method
A power drive stack system comprises a series of power electronic modules, each one of the modules containing power components and module contacts electrically and mechanically aligned for building a portion of a complete AC/DC drive stack. The modules utilize a common set of circuit connection points that are matched to a common set of physical connection points. The modules can be plugged together like building blocks to form a large variety of AC/DC drive stacks that can be tailored to meet an exact system requirement. The drive stack may be used in conjunction with a controller to adjust the torque and speed of an AC/DC electric motor.
US08094434B2 Hermetically sealed capacitor assembly
A capacitor assembly that includes a conductive polymer electrolytic capacitor that is enclosed and hermetically sealed within a ceramic housing in the presence of an inert gas is provided. Without intending to be limited by theory, the present inventors believe that the ceramic housing is capable of limiting the amount of oxygen and moisture supplied to the conductive polymer of the capacitor. In this manner, the conductive polymer is less likely to oxidize in high temperature environments, thus increasing the thermal stability of the capacitor assembly.
US08094433B2 Supercapacitor
A supercapacitor having a main energy storage form that is based on the electrode reaction of electrochemical active materials in a thin liquid layer near the inner and outer surfaces of porous electrodes.
US08094431B2 Methods for improving the dielectric properties of a polymer, and related articles and devices
In one aspect of the present invention, a method for increasing the dielectric breakdown strength of a polymer is described. The method comprises providing the polymer and contacting a surface of the polymer in a reaction chamber with a gas plasma, under specified plasma conditions. The polymer is selected from the group consisting of a polymer having a glass transition temperature of at least about 150° C., and a polymer composite comprising at least one inorganic constituent. The contact with the gas plasma is carried out for a period of time sufficient to incorporate additional chemical functionality into a surface region of the polymer film, to provide a treated polymer. Also provided are an article and method of manufacture.
US08094422B2 Integrated circuit
An integrated circuit aims to decrease a parasitic resistance between an input protection circuit cell and a power supply cell including a clamp circuit, restrain a size of a diode from increasing beyond ESD robustness of the diode itself in order to compensate for a decrease in the ESD robustness, and prevent high-frequency signal power from decreasing due to a large capacitance component from a diode in an input protection circuit and a parasitic resistance component from a series resistor. The input protection circuit cell includes: an input terminal coupled to a signal pin; an output terminal coupled to not only a high-frequency circuit but also the input terminal and a node; a diode that is provided between the node and VDD and makes an electric current flow from the node to VDD; another diode that is provided between the node and GND and makes an electric current flow from GND to the node; and a clamp circuit coupled between VDD and GND parallel to the diodes.
US08094421B2 Current-perpendicular-to-plane (CPP) read sensor with multiple reference layers
A current-to-perpendicular-to-plane (CPP) read sensor with multiple reference layers and associated fabrication methods are disclosed. According to one embodiment of the invention, the multiple reference layers of a CPP tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) read sensor includes a first reference layer formed by a ferromagnetic polycrystalline Co—Fe film, a second reference layer formed by a ferromagnetic substitute-type amorphous Co—Fe—X film where X is Hf, Zr or Y, and a third reference layer formed by a ferromagnetic interstitial-type amorphous Co—Fe—B film. The first reference layer facilitates the CPP TMR read sensor to exhibit high exchange and antiparallel-coupling fields. The second reference layer provides a thermally stable flat surface, thus facilitating the CPP TMR read sensor to exhibit a low ferromagnetic-coupling field. The multiple reference layers may induce spin-dependent scattering, thus facilitating the CPP TMR sensor to exhibit a high TMR coefficient.
US08094416B2 Head suspension and piezoelectric actuator
A head suspension with a piezoelectric element involves simple wiring and realizes high reliability, the head suspension has a base plate, a load beam connected to the base plate, a flexure attached to the load beam, and a piezoelectric actuator having a piezoelectric element arranged between the base plate and the load beam, the piezoelectric element is configured to deform according to a state of applied voltage and move a front end of the load beam in a sway direction according to the deformation, and the piezoelectric element has first and second piezoelectric parts that are oppositely polarized and deform according to a state of applied voltage, a common electrode formed over first surfaces of the first and second piezoelectric parts, a first electrode formed on a second surface of the first piezoelectric part, and a second electrode formed on a second surface of the second piezoelectric part.
US08094413B1 Disk drive head suspension flexure with stacked traces having differing configurations on gimbal and beam regions
An integrated lead head suspension component comprising a spring metal layer, a first conductor layer, a first dielectric layer between at least portions of the spring metal and the first conductor layers, a second conductor layer and a second dielectric layer between at least portions of the first and second conductor layers. The head suspension component includes stacked traces having first and second traces in the first and second conductor layers, respectively. The stacked traces comprise base sections having first widths and gimbal sections having second widths that are less than the first widths. The second dielectric layer can have a generally constant thickness on the base and gimbal sections or, alternatively, a gimbal section thickness that is less than a base section thickness.
US08094411B2 Slider with pockets in front of air bearing surface
A slider for use with disk drive data storage devices includes a topography that defines features of the slider. The features facilitate in controlling peak pressure, providing stiffness, and/or inhibiting lubricant accumulation on the slider. For example, the features include an air bearing surface and a cavity disposed in front of the air bearing surface. The cavity is closed on all sides by sidewalls.
US08094409B2 Method and system for monitoring gas in sealed hard disk drives with feedback
A system and method for monitoring the helium content of a disk cavity of a hard disk drive is disclosed. In one embodiment of the present invention, an oxygen sensor is placed in the disk cavity to monitor the level of oxygen in the cavity. With the measurement of oxygen in the disk cavity, the level of helium in the cavity is inferred. In one embodiment, if the amount of helium inferred from the oxygen level fell below 90%-95% of the gaseous content of the disk cavity, a user is automatically notified in order to maintain the hard disk drive in a timely manner.
US08094408B2 Magnetic disk drive sealed with low vapor pressure fluorine oil
A sealing type magnetic disc drive comprising a disc, a spindle motor for rotationally driving the disc, a head for recording or reproducing information on the disc, a base on which an actuator assembly is provided to move the head in the radius direction on the disc, and a cover jointed with the base, and low density gas is filled in the space where the base and the cover are joined, wherein low vapor pressure oil or a low viscosity adhesive is filled in a hole present at the joint of the base and the cover.
US08094403B2 Correcting errors in position of an HDD write-head
A hard-disk drive (HDD) with a current adjustment component is provided. The current adjustment component changes an amount of current to a magnetic-recording head of the HDD to cause a change in the strength of a magnetic write field produced by the magnetic-recording head in response to a determination that a present position of the magnetic-head head is not in a desired position. To illustrate, in response to a determination that the present position of the magnetic-recording head is further away from an edge of a current track being written than a desired position of the magnetic-recording head, the current adjustment component increases the current to the magnetic-recording head to cause an increase in the strength of the magnetic write field. The change in the strength of the magnetic write field causes data, written by the magnetic-recording head, to be located at a desired location on the magnetic-recording disk.
US08094401B1 Writing high frequency pattern over a DC background to detect skip track erasure for a disk drive
A method of detecting skip track erasure for a head and disk of a disk drive is disclosed. N tracks are DC erased, and a periodic pattern is written to the disk at a target track within the DC erased tracks. The periodic pattern is substantially comprised of a high frequency component greater than 450 MHz. After writing the periodic pattern to the target track at least twice, at least two of the DC erased tracks other than the target track are read to generate respective read signals. The read signals are processed to detect a skip track erasure event.
US08094399B2 Magnetic recording apparatus provided with microwave-assisted head
A magnetic recording apparatus includes a magnetic recording medium having a magnetic recording layer, a thin-film magnetic head with a microwave-band magnetic drive function, the head having a write field generation means that generates a write field to the magnetic recording medium in response to a write signal, and a microwave generator that is provided independent of the write field generation means and generates an alternating magnetic field in plane having a microwave-band frequency when microwave-excitation current is fed, an excitation current generation means that generates the microwave-excitation current by amplitude-modulating microwave carrier current with a modulating signal having a fixed period, and a write signal supply means that generates the write signal and applies it to the write field generation means of the thin-film magnetic head.
US08094394B2 Optical filter
An optical filter that transmits light of the visible light region includes a dielectric substrate; a dielectric layer that is formed on a surface of the dielectric substrate; and a first metal structure group in which a plurality of first metal structures are arranged two-dimensionally in an isolated state in the in-plane direction of the dielectric substrate, that is provided between the dielectric substrate and the dielectric layer, comprising: the first metal structures having first and second lengths in first and second directions orthogonal to each other, which lengths are equal to or less than a first wavelength in the visible light region; and a transmittance of the first wavelength being reduced or a reflectance being increased by surface plasmons induced on a surface of the first metal structures by resonance between light incident on the dielectric substrate or the dielectric layer and the first metal structures.
US08094393B2 Reflectors made of linear grooves
An embodiment of a method of designing a grooved reflector comprises selecting two given wavefronts; and designing two surfaces meeting at an edge to form a groove such that the rays of each of the given wavefront become rays of a respective one of the given wavefronts after a reflection at each of the surfaces. Multiple grooves may be combined to form a mirror covering a desired area. A mirror may be manufactured according to the design.
US08094390B2 Electronic device with remote control capability
An electronic device includes a housing, a PCB, a LED mounted to the PCB, and a support member. The housing defines a cavity, and a through hole communicating with the cavity. The PCB is received in the cavity. The LED includes a lens received in the through hole. The support member, which is fixed to the housing to provide support for the lens, includes an elastic latch arm extending close to the through hole to form an angle with a surface of the lens. An end of the elastic latch arm contacts the surface of the lens to prevent the lens from being detached from the through hole.
US08094389B2 Solid immersion lens holder
A solid immersion lens holder 200 includes a holder main body 8 having a lens holding unit 60 that holds a solid immersion lens 6, and an objective lens socket 9 for attaching the holder main body 8 to a front end of an objective lens 21. The solid immersion lens 6 is held in a state of being unfixed to be free with respect to the lens holding unit 60. A vibration generator unit 120 that causes the holder main body 8 to vibrate is attached to the objective lens socket 9. The vibration generator unit 120 has a vibrating motor 140 held by a motor holding member 130, and a weight 142 structured to be eccentric by weight is attached to an output shaft 141 of the vibrating motor 140. A vibration generated in the vibration generator unit 120 is transmitted to the solid immersion lens 6 via the objective lens socket 9 and the holder main body 8. Thereby, achieving the solid immersion lens holder capable of improving the close contact between the solid immersion lens and an observation object.
US08094388B1 Removable and replaceable modular optic package with controlled microenvironment
The present invention pertains generally to a combination of optical elements integrated into a singular unit to perform one or more functional operations upon an electromagnetic radiation emission conveyed through said unit, and more particularly, a plurality of optical elements that are durably integrated into a modular optical package, wherein said modular optical package is adaptive to a releasable mounting mechanism and has the capability to maintain an independently controlled microenvironment. An electromagnetic radiation emission in introduced into the modular optical package through at least one ingress portal and upon modification by the internal optical elements, exits the modular optical package through at least one egress portal. A microenvironment is maintained within the enclosure of the modular optical package such that humidity, temperature, atmospheric composition, particulates, and out-gassing contaminants are controlled.
US08094383B2 Optical imaging lens
An optical imaging lens, from object side to image side, includes a positive first lens element that is a meniscus aspherical lens having a convex surface on the object side, an aperture stop, a negative second lens element that is a meniscus aspherical lens having a convex surface on the image side, a positive third lens element that is an aspherical lens while on the lens center, the convex surface is on the object side; and from the center toward the edge, the refractive power changes from positive power, through an inflection point, to negative power. The optical imaging lens satisfies specific mathematical conditions.
US08094379B2 Optical arrangement of autofocus elements for use with immersion lithography
A lithographic projection apparatus includes an optical element through which a substrate is exposed with an exposure beam. A space between the optical element and the substrate is filled with liquid during the exposure. A gap is formed between a member and a surface of the optical element through which the exposure beam does not pass. The liquid is supplied to the gap.
US08094377B2 Head-mounted optical apparatus using an OLED display
A see-through head-mounted optical apparatus for a viewer has at least one display module, each display module having a display energizable to form an image and a positive field lens optically coupled to the surface of the display and disposed to direct imaged light from the display toward a first surface of a prism. A curved reflector element is in the path of the imaged light through the prism and disposed at a second surface of the prism, opposite the first surface. The curved reflector element has a refractive surface and a curved reflective surface disposed to collimate imaged light received from the display and direct this light toward a beam splitter that is disposed within the prism and that is at an oblique angle to the collimated reflected light. The beam splitter redirects the incident collimated reflected light through the prism to form an entrance pupil for the viewer.
US08094373B2 Polarization element, method for manufacturing the same, liquid crystal device, and electronic apparatus
A polarization element including a plurality of protection films, one of the plurality of protection films being provided on one of the plurality of metal thin wires. The plurality of metal thin wires includes a first metal thin wire, and a second metal thin wire adjacent to the first metal thin wire. The plurality of protection films includes a protection first film and a second protection film. A first mask is provided between the upper end of the first metal thin wire and the first protection film, and a second mask is provided between the upper end of the second metal thin wire and the second protection film. The first and second protection films form an air gap below the first mask.
US08094371B2 Microscope
The microscope comprises a first phase-contrast objective including a first phase film shaped like a ring and having a 20-fold magnification or lower, a second phase-contrast objective including a second phase film shaped like a ring and having a 60-fold magnification or higher; and a ring slit shared and used by the first and second phase-contrast objectives.
US08094368B2 Optical parametric oscillator
A synchronously-pumped optical parametric oscillator (OPO 10) driven by the second harmonic output of a Kerr-lens-mode-locked Ti:sapphire laser (12) generates femtosecond pulses with wide tunability in the visible and ultraviolet spectrum. The OPO uses bismuth triborate, BiB3O6 (or BIBO) or a substituted form thereof, in collinear critical phase-matching as the nonlinear gain crystal (24). Using simple crystal rotation at room temperature, a continuous tuning range from 480 nm to 710 nm is achieved with a single BIBO crystal (24) and a single set of mirrors (26, 28, 30) for the OPO cavity. The OPO (10) generates up to 27 OmW of average power across the available tuning range and can deliver femtosecond pulses at a repetition rate of 76 MHz. Frequency doubling of the visible signal pulses from the OPO (10) is also achieved in the crystal of β-BaB2O4, external and internal to the OPO resonator (10), providing femtosecond pulses with wide tunability in the 235 nm to 355 nm in the ultraviolet at average powers of up to 100 mW.
US08094367B2 Optically locked photon echo apparatus and method
Disclosed herein is an optically locked photon echo apparatus and method, which can solve the problem of limited echo efficiency and can overcome constraints on the conventional storage time being limited to the spin dephasing time. The optically locked photon echo apparatus of the present invention includes a nonlinear optical medium and an optical pulse generation unit. The nonlinear optical medium is provided with three energy levels |1>, |2>, and |3>, and is configured to receive optical pulses from an optical pulse generation unit and generate output light (E) which satisfies a phase matching condition. The optical pulse generation unit is configured to generate five or more optical pulses which resonate between the energy levels of the optical medium.
US08094366B2 Electrical characterization of interferometric modulators
Disclosed herein are methods and systems for testing the electrical characteristics of reflective displays, including interferometric modulator displays. In one embodiment, a controlled voltage is applied to conductive leads in the display and the resulting current is measured. The voltage may be controlled so as to ensure that interferometric modulators do not actuate during the resistance measurements. Also disclosed are methods for conditioning interferometric modulator display by applying a voltage waveform that causes actuation of interferometric modulators in the display.
US08094357B2 Mirror control device
A mirror control device includes a pivotally supported mirror (230), electrodes (340a-340d) spaced apart from the mirror (230), a driving voltage generation means (401) for generating a driving voltage corresponding to the desired tilt angle of the mirror (230) for each electrode, a bias voltage generation means (402) for generating, as a bias voltage for each electrode, a voltage which causes the tilt angle of the mirror (230) to have the same predetermined value upon being independently applied to each of the electrodes (340a-340d), and an electrode voltage applying means (403) for adding, for each electrode, the bias voltage to the driving voltage and applying the voltage after addition to a corresponding one of the electrodes (340a-340d).
US08094355B2 Laser projection system with a spinning polygon for speckle mitigation
A laser projection system comprises: (i) a coherent light source including at least one laser configured to emit an output beam carrying signal data; (ii) a scanning optics, the scanning optics comprising at least one scanning reflector, the scanning reflector positioned in an optical path of the output beam; and (iii) a rotating polygon prism; wherein (a) the scanning reflector is configured to direct the output beam towards the polygon prism and scan the output beam across a projection surface; and (b) the polygon prism is configured to transmit the scanned output beam through its body, and create a virtual image of the scanning reflector, such that said virtual image of the scanning reflector is moving when said polygon prism rotates.
US08094352B2 Mirror assembly with recessed mirror
A mirror device and a method for manufacturing the mirror device are presented. The mirror device includes a mirror formed from a first substrate and a hinge/support structure formed from a second substrate. The hinge/support structure includes a recessed region and a torsional hinge region. The mirror is coupled to the hinge/support structure at the recessed region. Further, a driver system is employed to cause the mirror to pivot about the torsional hinge region.
US08094350B2 Laser processing apparatus
A laser processing apparatus which performs a predetermined processing by irradiating a laser beam (2) emitted from a laser oscillator onto a surface of a workpiece (1) through a condenser lens (3). There are provided microdeformation lenses (4), (5) for changing the beam shape in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction in a laser beam (2), for example, and a lens deformation control device for controlling the amount of deformation of the microdeformation lenses (4), (5) which are to adjust the beam shape of the laser beam (2) to a predetermined shape. The microdeformation lenses (4), (5) have a structure such that they can be caused to change to a desired shape by means of a plurality of actuators (4b), (5b) disposed around the outer periphery of the lenses. High-precision processing can be achieved, while maintaining the desired beam shape, even if the shape of the workpiece changes, since the laser beam shape can be rapidly changed to the desired shape, on a smooth curved surface equivalent to that of an ordinary lens.
US08094338B2 Image processing device
An image processing device which can be connected to a document management device storing documents to be managed together with status information representing a status of individual document is provided with a connecting unit configured to connect the image processing device to the document management device, a current status information acquiring unit configured to acquire current status information of a target document, which is to be printed, from the document management device, a print condition setting unit configured to set print condition based on the current status of the target document acquired by the current status information acquiring unit, a printing unit configured to print documents according to a print condition, and a print executing unit configured to make a printing unit to print the target document according to the print condition set by the print condition setting unit.
US08094337B2 Device and system for assisting printer selection through a network
To minimize risk of printing-out to a printer located at an improper base, where a network is established between the bases, terminal devices, a server, printers, and a management device which manages printers are provided. The management device manages position information of the printers installed in bases. Every time printing is requested, the management device extracts printer candidates located close to a terminal device and asks a user of the terminal device to select one of the printer candidates. The user visually confirms the installation locations of the extracted printer candidates included in a list and selects an appropriate printer for each printing. Accordingly, risk of erroneously printing using a printer installed in an improper base can be reduced.
US08094333B2 System and method for optimizing the performance factors of a multi-function peripheral (MFP)
A method of controlling a multi-function peripheral (MFP) device is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes i) storing data associated with the operation of the MFP device, wherein the MFP device includes at least one hardware element, ii) analyzing the stored data so as to optimize performance factors (e.g., power savings, job speed, use of consumable material, and MFP wear and tear, etc.) of the MFP device and iii) controlling the at least one hardware element based on the analysis. In one embodiment, the data includes at least one of the following: i) a first data associated with a user's MFP device settings, ii) a second data associated with a user's MFP device usage statistics, iii) a third data which is real time data associated with the MFP device operation and iv) a fourth data associated with MFP hardware characteristics.
US08094332B2 Print processing utilizing multiple printer drivers
It is analyzed on the basis of received print data whether the print data is print data generated via a process path formed from a combination of the first application and first printer driver, or print data generated via a process path formed from a combination of the second application and second printer driver. Settings associated with the process of print data are made for each process path. The process of the received print data is controlled on the basis of the analysis result and setting contents.
US08094331B2 Printer having a media database and web system service
A printer, system, method and computer program for printing, the printer comprising: a media database arranged to store print media data; a web service system arranged to implement a web service; and communication means for communicating data stored in the media database to a user via the web service. The printing supports media extensibility, and information relating to the printing media, such as color profiles, can be communicated between a user and the printer via a web service.
US08094328B2 Image forming apparatus and method of controlling the same
An image forming apparatus and a method to control the same. The image forming apparatus determines whether the object to be printed is real money. If the object is real money, the image forming apparatus prints a variety of counterfeit money discrimination information (e.g., the counterfeit money preventing pattern, the warning message, or the unique number of the image forming apparatus used for printing the money) on the back side of the copy of the money, and prints the original image of the money on the front side of the copy of the money without any change. Therefore, the image forming apparatus can color-print the original image of the money without any change, and can prevent the copied money from being used as counterfeit money.
US08094314B2 Optical sensing based on surface plasmon resonances in nanostructures
Devices and techniques for using nanostructures such as nanohole metal films to construct SPP sensors for sensing various substances.
US08094310B2 Optical alignment tool and method of alignment
An alignment tool for use in calibrating an optical bench and/or alignment of an optical system such as a collector optical system for EUV and X-ray applications is disclosed. The optical system includes multiple nested mirrors attached to a mechanical support. The tool includes a mechanical interface plate, a lower reference ring, an upper reference ring and a pinhole member disposed spaced apart axially in sequence; a first positioning device attached to the mechanical interface plate and to the lower reference ring; the first positioning device being adapted for precisely adjusting the position of the lower reference ring in two dimensions; a second positioning device attached to the mechanical interface plate and to the upper reference ring and adapted for precisely adjusting the position of the upper reference ring in two dimensions; a third positioning device attached to the upper reference plate and to the pinhole member and adapted for precisely adjusting the position of the pinhole member in three dimensions; a mechanical interface mounted on or integral with the mechanical interface plate and being substantially identical in form to that of the mechanical support of the optical system.
US08094300B2 In-situ contaminant removal in optical packages
A method of controlling an optical package is provided where the average power density of the output beam of the semiconductor laser on the input facet of the wavelength conversion device in a relatively high power wavelength conversion mode exceeds the power density of the output beam of the semiconductor laser on the input facet of the wavelength conversion device in a relatively low power contaminant removal mode. In the relatively high power wavelength conversion mode, the adjustable optical components are utilized to correlate an optimum intensity value of a wavelength-converted output of the wavelength conversion device with optimum coordinates representing the position of the output beam of the semiconductor laser on the waveguide portion of the input facet of the wavelength conversion device. In the relatively low power contaminant removal mode, the adjustable optical components are utilized to scan the output beam of the semiconductor laser across the waveguide portion of the input facet of the wavelength conversion device while maintaining the power density of the output beam on the input facet of the wavelength conversion device below the average power density of the output beam in the relatively high power wavelength conversion mode. Additional embodiments are disclosed and claimed.
US08094292B2 Cross-chirped interferometry system and method for light detection and ranging
An interferometric method and system enabling light echoes-to-spectrum mapping, applicable for laser rangefinder, biomedical imaging including surface 3D mapping and tomography, vehicle position identification, and spectrum analysis. The direct mapping into spectrum allows a time-of-flight detection without using any timing pulse modulation. The sensitivity of the detection can be as high as that of the conventional low coherence interferometry, thereby an eye-safe and low-cost solution not compromising performance. In a practical implementation, high accurate range detection can be easily achievable with the level of accuracy equivalent to the laser rangefinder using a 20 ps Full-Width-at-Half-Maximum (FWHM) timing pulse. The system and method comprise applying dispersion-unbalanced interference (referred to as ‘cross-chirp interference’) and gating a phase matched spectral component. The dispersion unbalance used to induce linear one-to-one correspondence between the relative time delay and the spectral component, the performances in terms of range and resolution of the system and method increase with the increase in dispersion unbalance.
US08094287B2 Lithographic appararus and method
A lithographic apparatus includes a projection system configured to project a patterned beam of radiation onto a target portion of a substrate. The projection system includes a first gas-conditioned sub-environment and a second gas-conditioned sub-environment. The apparatus includes a gas control unit configured to control the feeding of conditioned gas into the first sub-environment and into the second sub-environment via the first sub-environment so as to prevent contamination from the second sub-environment to the first sub-environment. The apparatus includes a gate configured to leak the conditioned gas at a rate from the second sub-environment to ambient atmosphere, and a detector configured to detect at least one property of the second gas-conditioned environment.
US08094282B1 Method of fabricating a liquid crystal display device having image-displaying and viewing angle-adjusting sub pixels and method of driving the same
A liquid crystal display device includes: first and second substrates facing and spaced apart from each other, each of the first and second substrates having an image-displaying sub pixel and a viewing angle-adjusting sub pixel; a thin film transistor corresponding to each of the image-displaying sub pixel and the viewing angle-adjusting sub pixel; a liquid crystal display layer between the first and second substrates, the liquid crystal layer having a negative dielectric constant anisotropy; a first field distortion means in the image-displaying sub pixel; and a second field distortion means in the viewing angle-adjusting sub pixel.
US08094276B2 Production method of liquid crystal display device and liquid crystal display device
To provide a production method of a liquid crystal display device and a liquid crystal display device, in which generation of a joint line on a display screen is suppressed and yield can be improved even if a substrate is subjected to an alignment treatment by completing exposure for the substrate through several exposures in a liquid crystal display device including pixels each having two or more domains. The present invention is a production method of a production method of a liquid crystal display device, the liquid crystal display device including: a pair of opposed substrates; a liquid crystal layer formed between the pair of opposed substrates; and an alignment film arranged on a liquid crystal layer side surface of at least one of the pair of opposed substrates, and the liquid crystal display device having two or more regions which differ in alignment azimuth in a pixel, wherein the production method comprises an exposure step of exposing the alignment film in such a way that a substrate plane is divided into two or more exposure regions through a photomask in each exposure region, and in the exposure step, exposure is performed in such a way that adjacent two exposure regions have an overlapping exposure region where the adjacent two exposure regions partly overlap with each other, and the photomask has a halftone part corresponding to the overlapping exposure region.
US08094273B2 Color filter with different alignment structures and display panel using the same
A display panel and a color filter substrate thereof are provided. The display panel includes a first substrate, an alignment structure set, a second substrate, a pixel electrode, and a liquid crystal layer. The alignment structure set includes a first and a second alignment units disposed on the upper electrode. The first alignment unit is different from the second alignment unit. The pixel electrode is formed on the second substrate and includes a first electrode and a second lower electrode opposite to the first and second alignment units, respectively. A color filter may be disposed between the first substrate and the alignment structure layer to form a color filter substrate.
US08094259B2 Liquid crystal display without color filter
Provided is a liquid crystal display (LCD) without a color filter, the LCD including: a liquid crystal panel comprising front and rear glass substrates and a plurality of red, green, and blue liquid crystal subpixels disposed between the front and rear glass substrates corresponding to red, green, and blue lights, respectively; a backlight unit disposed in rear of the liquid crystal panel and comprising a plurality of three-color light supply units supplying the red, green, and blue lights, respectively, and separated from one another so that the plurality of three-color light supply units are compartmentalized; and a lenticular lens array disposed between the liquid crystal panel and the backlight unit, inducing the red, green, and blue lights irradiated by the three-color light supply units into the red, green, and blue liquid crystal subpixels included in the liquid crystal panel and comprising a plurality of lenticular lens groups comprising a plurality of lenticular lenses, wherein the plurality of lenticular lens groups are separated from one another so that the plurality of lenticular lens groups are compartmentalized to correspond to the three-color light supply units, respectively. A lenticular lens array sheet is attached to the liquid crystal panel to remove the color filter in the liquid crystal panel that is the most part of light losses so that light loss can be reduced, power consumption can be reduced and manufacturing costs can be reduced.
US08094258B1 Illumination apparatus for display device, display device using the same, and television receiver apparatus comprising the display device
In a backlight apparatus, laminated optical sheets are housed in a tray such that a wall portion thereof surrounds their circumferences so that the optical sheets receive light from fluorescent lights. Tips of one corner portion A of optical sheets preferably have a shape in which the tips are trimmed by line segments extending between two edges defining the corner portions. At the wall portion of the tray, an opposing surface is formed along the line segments of the corner portions so as to correspond to the shape of the corner portions having tips trimmed off. The opposing surface restrains the line segments.
US08094251B2 Method for manufacturing lower substrate of liquid crystal display device
A method for manufacturing a lower substrate of a liquid crystal display device is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of: (a) forming a patterned first metal layer, a first insulating layer, a patterned second metal layer and a second insulating layer on a substrate in sequence; (b) coating a transparent electrode layer and a negative photo resist layer on the second insulating layer; (c) irradiating the photo resist layer from the second surface of the substrate; (d) irradiating the photo resist layer from the first surface of the substrate, wherein part of the photo resist layer superposed over the second metal layer is covered by a mask; and (e) removing un-reacted photo resist and patterning the transparent electrode.
US08094248B2 Liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal display device, having: a liquid crystal display medium that has a liquid crystal layer disposed between a pair of electrodes disposed facing with each other and that displays an image by reflecting or transmitting outside light according to the orientation of the liquid crystal layer; and an electrostatic actuator disposed at a side opposite to a display surface of the liquid crystal display medium, in which the liquid crystal display device displays an image by changing the orientation of the liquid crystal layer by application of a voltage to a specific area of the liquid crystal display medium through the pair of electrodes according to image data after the orientation of the liquid crystal layer is changed to the planar state by applying a stress to the liquid crystal display medium by the electrostatic actuator.
US08094241B2 Digital broadcast reception device and related method to determine programs included in receivable programs
There is disclosed a digital broadcast reception device capable of acquiring a broadcast wave at a current position with a high probability without using position information even when moving over a broadcast area. In this device, when reservation of recording or viewing is inputted from an input unit (104), a broadcast wave which can be received by the frequency channel for which the frequency channel station selection unit (123) is specified is selected. When it is impossible to select a broadcast wave which can be received by the specified frequency channel, a station selection control unit (122) controls the frequency channel station selection unit (123), a broadcast analysis unit (124), and a service channel station selection unit (125) so as to perform channel search and acquire a broadcast wave which can be received.
US08094240B2 Television receiver, image processing device, and high-quality image display system
A television receiver transmits channel information obtained based on a remote control signal from a television remote controller to an image processing device through an HDMI interface section. The image processing device receives the channel information through the HDMI interface section, subjects an image signal obtained from a television broadcasting radio wave corresponding to the channel information to high-quality image processing performed in a high-quality image processing section, and transmits the processed image signal to the television receiver through the HDMI interface section. The television receiver receives high-quality image data through the HDMI interface section, and displays a high-quality image expressed by the high-quality image data on an image display section.
US08094239B1 3:2 pulldown detection
Field-based detection of 3:2 pulldown in a sequence of digital video fields using a programmable graphics processor is described. The detection is performed using a threshold value to determine equivalence between a pair of fields of digital video data. Furthermore, additional threshold values may be used to control switching into a mode where duplicated fields of digital video data are identified and not displayed and out of the mode where duplicated fields of digital video data are identified and not displayed. Look ahead can be used to detect when to switch into or out of the mode where duplicated fields of digital video data are identified and not displayed, reducing the occurrence of visual artifacts.
US08094229B2 Display device
The present invention provides a display device which has a display unit on a main body, comprising a cover member that can be deformed into a first shape for covering the display unit and a second shape for forming a grip in order to solve the problems in the conventional cameras. The problem is such that the size of the camera becomes large by the size of the grip, which impairs portability of the camera because the conventional camera provides a fixed grip on the camera body on which a display unit with a large screen is mounted. In addition, another conventional camera has a space for accommodating the cover members within the grip, so that the size of the grip becomes accordingly large and thus the camera itself becomes large.
US08094224B2 Solid-state image capturing apparatus
A solid-state image capturing apparatus has a plurality of light receiving sections for performing photoelectric conversion on incident light to generate a signal charge, a charge transfer section provided along a light receiving section arranged in a column direction among the plurality of light receiving sections, for transferring signal charges generated in the light receiving section arranged in the column direction to a predetermined direction, and at least two layers of charge transfer electrodes provided on the charge transfer section via an insulation film, where a plane view width readable from the light receiving section is 50% to the whole edge of the edge of the light receiving section on the charge transfer section side.
US08094222B2 Driving method for solid-state imaging device and solid-state imaging device
A driving method used for a solid-state imaging device according to the present invention includes: imaging an object for a first storage time when a shutter is open, in a first state that is a state where either at least a part of the peripheral circuitry is suspended or a consumption current of the peripheral circuitry is limited; imaging, in the first state, a dark output signal image including only a dark output for a second storage time when the shutter is closed; converting the dark output signal image to correspond to the image obtained for the first storage time and subtracting, from the signal image of the object, the converted dark output signal image or converting the dark output signal image to correspond to the image obtained for the second storage time and subtracting, from the signal image of the object, the converted dark output signal image.
US08094220B2 Solid-state imaging apparatus and driving method of solid-state imaging apparatus
A solid-state imaging apparatus includes an A/D conversion circuit in each column. A connecting unit is provided for connecting a register circuit in a certain column to a register circuit in another column, and an operation is performed for holding, in register circuits through the connecting unit, digital signals obtained by performing A/D conversions of analog electric signals at different timings in one horizontal synchronizing period.
US08094213B2 Image processing apparatus, image processing method, and program in which an original image is modified with respect to a desired reference point set on a screen
An image processing apparatus, an image processing method, and an image processing program in which a special effect that allows a subject to be modified so that the degree of modification increases with increasing distance from a reference point of an original image set on a screen is given to a captured image.
US08094207B2 Imaging system, imaging apparatus, portable terminal apparatus, onboard apparatus, and medical apparatus, and method of manufacturing the imaging system
An imaging system is provided and includes: an imaging lens; an imaging device; a coefficient storage section; and a signal processing section. When a maximum diameter of an effective region of a point image projected onto a light receiving surface of the imaging device through the imaging lens is a size covering three or more pixels, a restoration coefficient corresponding to a state of the point image expressed by first image data output from the imaging device is stored in the coefficient storage unit. The signal processing section executes restoration processing on the first image data output from the imaging device by utilizing the restoration coefficient stored in the coefficient storage unit, the restoration processing being executed to generate second image data equivalent to the first image data output from the imaging device when the resolving power of the imaging lens is higher.
US08094196B2 Video matching device, method, and program
A matched state detection unit (33) of a video matching device (100) detects a reference video frame, of the respective video frames of a reference video (1) and degraded video (2B), which is in a matched state in which it is spatially and temporally matched with each degraded video frame. A matching degree derivation unit (34) controls a degradation amount derivation unit (40) to acquire the first degradation amount indicating the degradation amount between a reference video frame and a degraded video frame in the matched state and the second degradation amount indicating the degradation amount between a reference video frame and a degraded video frame in a state shifted from the matched state by a predetermined number of pixels and calculate a matching degree on the basis of the ratio between the first degradation amount and the second degradation amount. A matching information output unit (35) outputs the matching degree between the reference video and the degraded video after matching.
US08094195B2 Digital camera calibration method
A method of calibrating a digital camera includes dispersing white light through a test device to generate a color dispersion image including a plurality of different wavelengths of light; capturing a test image of the color dispersion image; obtaining intensity values corresponding to at least two of the different wavelengths of light from the test image; and comparing the intensity values to expected intensity values. The test device may include a color dispersion medium, e.g., a variable band pass filter, and/or a light transmission medium. The method may further include obtaining at least two different values corresponding to an intensity pattern image containing a plurality of intensities of undispersed light transmitted through a light transmission medium.
US08094190B2 Driving support method and apparatus
A driving support unit captures an image of a driver's blind spot due to presence of a pillar of a vehicle includes at least first and second cameras which are mounted on the vehicle, a display device for displaying the image on the interior surface of the pillar and a control section for detecting position of the head of the driver, calculating a blind spot angle due to the presence of the pillar in accordance with the position of the head of the driver, and for selecting, based on the calculated angle, one of the cameras to capture the image. The first camera captures an image the major portion of which is an area to the side of the vehicle, and the second camera captures an image the major portion of which is an area to the front of the vehicle.
US08094186B2 Skin condition diagnosis system and beauty counseling system
A data collection system is connected to a data analysis system that carries out analysis processing based on data collected by the data collection system via communication. The data collection system includes collection-side communication, image capturing for capturing an ultra-high resolution digital image that allows an analysis of a skin texture condition, collection-side image data compression for compressing image data by a high compression method with block noises suppressed, and collection-side data display. The data analysis system includes analysis side communication, data analysis for analyzing image data, and analysis-side data compression for compressing the data by a high compression method with block noises suppressed.
US08094177B2 Modifying rotation speed within an image-forming device
In an image-forming device includes an image-forming unit, a first conveying unit, a first changing unit, and a second changing unit. The image-forming unit includes a rotatable mirror, a light-emitting unit, a photosensitive drum, a developing unit, a transferring unit. An electrostatic latent image composed of a plurality of line electrostatic latent images extending in a main scanning direction over a first length is formed on the photosensitive drum. The first conveying unit conveys a recording medium to the transferring position in a sub-scanning direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction. The first changing unit changes a rotating speed of the rotatable mirror to change the first length. The second changing unit proportionally changes a conveying speed of the first conveying unit in accordance with the change of the rotating speed of the rotatable mirror.
US08094175B2 Thermal printer
In order to place both ends of a platen roller in bearing portions of a frame to perform accurate printing on a recording sheet with improved operability, a thermal printer comprises: a pair of concave portions (10d) provided to a frame to receive both end portions of a roller shaft (13e) of a platen roller (13) when a cover (8) is in a closed state; a pair of lock arms for automatically engaging the roller shaft (13e) of the platen roller (13) with the concave portions along with an operation of closing the cover (8); and a connection mechanism (30) for turnably connecting the platen roller (13) to the cover (8), and is characterized in that an axis of rotation of the platen roller (13) in the connection mechanism (30) is contained in a plane passing through a midpoint between the pair of concave portions (10d) to be vertical to an axial direction of the concave portions (10d) and is arranged parallel to the cover (8).
US08094167B2 Display color correcting system
A display color correcting method is provided. A first plurality of input color values are provided to a display, wherein the input color values correspond to a plurality of vertices of a plurality of cubes within a cubic color space of the display. Each cube has two vertices arranged along a gray diagonal of the cubic color space. A response value is measured for each of the color values and a first plurality of calibration values is determined, the calibration values corresponding to the first plurality of input color values. A second plurality of calibration values corresponding to a second plurality of input color values is determined by interpolating the first plurality of calibration values.
US08094162B2 Method and device for adjusting preferred color and liquid crystal display device with the same
Method and device are disclosed for adjusting a preferred color which enables a user to set a preferred color conveniently and a liquid crystal display device with the same. The method and device for adjusting a preferred color includes displaying a menu selection image and setting a variety of optional information, making successive display of at least one selection image which shows a plurality of selection images having information on preferred colors different from one another to set information on the preferred colors in succession, and storing the information on the preferred colors set and generating an image having preferred colors adjusted according to the information on the preferred colors stored.
US08094153B2 Game apparatus, storage medium storing a game program, and game controlling method
A game apparatus includes a first LCD and a second LCD, and on the first LCD, a two-dimensional game screen including objects positioned in a two-dimensional coordinate is displayed. When a two-dimensional coordinate of a specific object out of the objects positioned in the two-dimensional coordinate satisfies a predetermined condition, a three-dimensional coordinate of each of the objects is calculated on the basis of the two-dimensional coordinate of each of the objects. The object is modeled in the calculated three-dimensional coordinate, moved by a predetermined animation, and then shot by a virtual camera. Accordingly, a game screen of an image (animation) of the three-dimensional virtual space shot by the virtual camera is displayed on the second LCD.
US08094152B1 Method for depth peeling and blending
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for performing dual depth peeling, which is useful for order-independent transparency blending. Multiple rendering passes are performed on a graphics scene. After each rendering pass, the front-most and back-most layer of pixels are peeled away by computing a reference window. In subsequent rendering passes, only pixels within the reference window survive depth sorting. In each subsequent rendering pass, the reference window is narrowed by the front most and back most surviving pixels. By performing depth peeling in two directions simultaneously, the number of rendering passes needed to generate a completed graphics image is reduced from L to 1+L/2, which results in improved rendering performance.
US08094150B2 Automatic 3D modeling system and method
An automatic 3D modeling system and method are described in which a 3D model may be generated from a picture or other image. For example, a 3D model for a face of a person may be automatically generated. The system and method also permits gestures/behaviors associated with a 3D model to automatically generated so that the gestures/behaviors may be applied to any 3D models.
US08094146B2 Driving method for pixel circuit and display apparatus
Disclosed here is a driving method for a pixel circuit which includes a light emitting element, a driving transistor for applying current in response to a signal value applied between a gate and a source thereof to the light emitting element when a driving voltage is applied between a drain and the source thereof, and a holding capacitor connected between the gate and the source of the driving transistor for holding the input signal value, the driving method comprising steps carried out within a light emitting period of one cycle which includes a no-light emitting period and the light emitting period, the steps including a first step to a sixth step.
US08094144B2 Electronic circuit, optoelectronic device, method for driving optoelectronic device, and electronic apparatus
An electronic circuit, an electronic device, and an electronic apparatus are provided that are capable of display with good quality and reducing operation delay, and a method to drive the electronic circuit. First and second switching transistors are turned on and an operation voltage Vdx and a data-current Idata are transmitted to a holding capacitor. The conduction state of a driving transistor is set according to an electrical-charge amount corresponding to the data-current Idata held in the holding capacitor and a current that passes the driving transistor is transmitted to an organic EL element. Then, a first switch is turned off, a second switch and the second switching transistor are turned on, and a reset voltage Vr is transmitted to the holding capacitor, whereby the driving transistor is turned off and the organic EL element stops emitting light.
US08094142B2 Display device
A display device includes pixels, each including a switching element; a shift register comprising stages coupled with the switching elements and sequentially generating output signals; clock signal lines transmitting clock signals; at least a control signal line transmitting a control signal; and terminal lines connecting the clock signal lines and the control signal with the stages, wherein the terminal lines comprise at least one common terminal line commonly connected with at least two stages.
US08094138B2 Position detecting device
A position detecting device and method implemented therein that is able to accurately detect an indicated position even when a water droplet or the like is formed upon the position-detecting-device's surface. The device includes: a light-guide plate placed upon a displaying surface of a displaying device; an emitting unit for emitting light beams that are totally reflected thickness-wise within the light-guide plate, so as to scan along the sides of the light-guide plate in an X-axis and a Y-axis direction under the control of an emission-control unit; an indicating device; and a coordinate calculating unit. In the indicating device, a light-guiding part guides light traveling within the light-guide plate into a detection unit, which detects the guided light in order to output a detection signal. The coordinate calculating unit calculates a coordinate position by deriving a scanned position from the detection signal and the emission-control unit.
US08094128B2 Channel scan logic
A device that can autonomously scan a sensor panel is disclosed. Autonomous scanning can be performed by implementing channel scan logic. In one embodiment, channel scan logic carries out many of the functions that a processor would normally undertake, including generating timing sequences and obtaining result data; comparing scan result data against a threshold value (e.g., in an auto-scan mode); generating row count; selecting one or more scanning frequency bands; power management control; and performing an auto-scan routine in a low power mode.
US08094115B2 Circuit device and related method for mitigating EMI
In order to mitigate electromagnetic interference (EMI), the present invention provides a circuit device for an electronic device including a signal generating unit, a phase adjusting unit and an output interface. The signal generating unit generates a plurality of in-phase signals. The phase adjusting unit is coupled to the signal generating unit and is used for adjusting the plurality of in-phase signals to generate a plurality of output signals, where all or some of the output signals have different phases. The output interface is coupled to the phase adjusting unit and is used for outputting the plurality of output signals to a plurality of signal processing units for image processing.
US08094111B2 Liquid crystal display and array substrate thereof
The present invention provides a liquid crystal display and an array substrate thereof. The array substrate comprises scan lines, data lines and a plurality of pixel defined by a crosswise arrangement of the scan lines and the data lines. The pixel comprises a first sub-pixel electrode; a second sub-pixel electrode electrically isolated from the first sub-pixel electrode; a first switching element for controlling the first sub-pixel electrode; and a second switching element for controlling the second sub-pixel electrode. When the control of the first sub-pixel electrode by the first switching element cannot be carried out normally, the second switching element can control at least a part of the first sub-pixel electrode in place of the first switching element.
US08094102B2 Single full-color LED with driving mechanism
A package structure of full-color LED (Light Emitting Diode) with driving mechanism includes an IC (Integrated Circuit) chip, a red LED dice, a green LED dice, a blue LED dice, and corresponding current limiting resistors. The IC chip has a driving mechanism to control the red LED dice, the green LED dice, and the blue LED dice. By the specific arrangement of these internal elements, the package structure generates full-color light with high resolution, compact structure and high mixing uniformity, and also achieves low cost and decreases usage of space.
US08094095B2 Current drive circuit and drive method thereof, and electroluminescent display apparatus using the circuit
A current drive apparatus for an active matrix display operates a plurality of loads, e.g. organic or inorganic EL elements, by applying a current thereto. The apparatus includes a plurality of output terminals to which the loads are respectively connected. A single current generation circuit comprising e.g. a digital to analogue converter and a current mirror, outputs an operating current having a predetermined current value. A plurality of current storage circuits are provided in accordance with the respective output terminals, sequentially sample and hold the operating current and then simultaneously output the drive currents based on the sampled operating currents to the respective output terminals. The operating current has a current value according to an input signal. The current storage circuit includes a voltage component holding section which samples the operating current outputted from the current generation circuit and holds a voltage component for driving a drive control current corresponding to a current value of the operating current for driving a second current mirror.
US08094090B2 Real-time self-visualization system
The present disclosure relates to a system which may allow a user to visualize and/or monitor motor activities during, e.g., rehabilitation exercises and/or athletic training. The system may include a camera that may be configured to capture images of a user performing a motor activity. The system may also include a computer configured to receive the captured images from the camera while the user is performing the motor activity. The computer may be further configured to provide static and dynamic augmentation of the captured images. The system may further include a display for the user. The display may be configured to receive the augmented captured images from the computer and to display the augmented captured images to the user.
US08094089B2 Content display system and content display method
A display control device includes: a priority order searching unit that searches a priority order management table to retrieve the priority level corresponding to the standby content screen that has stopped being displayed on a display device related to a usage starting operation when the usage starting operation is detected from any of display devices in the standby state; a switch display target designating unit that retrieves display devices displaying standby content screens of lower priority levels than the retrieved standby content screen, and designates a display device as the switch display target that is the display device displaying the standby content screen of the lowest priority level; and a display control unit that causes the designated display device of the switch display target to switchingly display the standby content screen that has stopped being displayed on the display device related to the usage starting operation.
US08094079B2 Handheld electronic devices with isolated antennas
Handheld electronic devices are provided that contain wireless communications circuitry having at least first and second antennas. An antenna isolation element reduces signal interference between the antennas, so that the antennas may be used in close proximity to each other. A planar ground element may be used as a ground by the first and second antennas. The first antenna may be formed using a hybrid planar-inverted-F and slot arrangement in which a planar resonating element is located above a rectangular slot in the planar ground element. The second antenna may be formed from an L-shaped strip. The planar resonating element of the first antenna may have first and second arms. The first arm may resonate at a common frequency with the second antenna and may serve as the isolation element. The second arm may resonate at approximately the same frequency as the slot portion of the hybrid antenna.
US08094077B2 Antenna apparatus and electronic apparatus
A disclosed antenna apparatus includes a dielectric flexible base having an element pattern and a ground pattern formed thereon. The dielectric flexible base has a cylindrical shape encompassing an antenna axis. The element pattern and the ground pattern formed on the dielectric flexible base are symmetrically formed with respect to the antenna axis.
US08094073B2 Robust VSAT tracking algorithm
A system and method to normalize a tracking control signal in a directional antenna system to reduce interference from an interfering adjacent transponder is presented. The system and method scans for the tracking signal along a scan path to produce a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) signal, coherently detects an RSSI image from the RSSI signal, and performs a morphologic feature estimation of the RSSI signal image to produce and output a normalized tracking correction.
US08094071B2 Method of reception and receiver for a radio navigation signal modulated by a CBOC spread wave form
Disclosed is a method for receiving a radionavigation signal modulated by a composite waveform, the composite waveform comprising a linear combination with real-valued coefficients of a BOC(n1,m) component and a BOC(n2,m) component, n1 differing from n2; in which a correlation is performed between a local waveform and the composite waveform over a time interval of duration T, wherein the local waveform is a binary waveform, formed over the time interval by an alternating succession comprising at least one BOC(n1,m) waveform segment and at least one BOC(n2,m) waveform segment, the at least one BOC(n1,m) segment having a total duration of αT, α being strictly between 0 and 1, the at least one BOC(n2,m) segment having a total duration of (1−α)T.
US08094064B2 Ground-based system and method to monitor for excessive delay gradients
A processing function to monitor a horizontal delay gradient in satellite signals is provided. The processing function includes a satellite differencing module, a double differencing module, and a gradient estimator module. The satellite differencing module receives carrier phase measurements for at least two satellites from at least two reference receivers that have a known geometric relationship to each other. The satellites include a monitored satellite and at least one other satellite. The satellite differencing module determines differences in the carrier phase measurements between signals from the monitored satellite and at least one other satellite. The double differencing module forms double-differences between pairs of the at least two reference receivers; compensates the double-differences between the pairs for the known difference-in-position of the reference receivers; and averages the double differences. The gradient estimator module estimates a magnitude of the horizontal delay gradient based on the averaged compensated double-differences for the monitored satellite.
US08094063B1 Image filtering and masking method and system for improving resolution of closely spaced objects in a range-doppler image
A method and system for enhancing a radar image provides for application of digital imaging processing techniques to a range-Doppler image produced by a radar system. The application of digital processing techniques includes a 2-D band-pass filter including a smoothing filter followed by a differentiating filter applied to the image. A constraint on concavity is placed upon the resultant 2-D band-pass filtered image to create a mask. The application of this mask to the original image results in an enhanced range-Doppler image with increased resolution.
US08094059B2 Method for determining the angular aperture corresponding to the extent in a plane of an object seen by a radar antenna
The present invention relates to a method for determining the angular aperture corresponding to the extent in a plane of an object seen by a radar antenna, the object being situated at a given distance from the radar antenna. Echoes are measured in directions θ p - Δθ 2 ⁢ ⁢ and ⁢ ⁢ θ p + Δθ 2 of the plane, where θp is a variable angle corresponding to directions of the plane and Δθ is a given angular aperture. The pairwise differences are calculated between the echo measurements taken in the directions θ p - Δθ 2 ⁢ ⁢ and ⁢ ⁢ θ p + Δθ 2 . The slope is determined at a value θp of a function e of θp interpolated between the calculated differences, the angular aperture which corresponds to the extent of the object at the given distance being deduced from the slope. The invention has an application in meteorological radar.
US08094058B2 Analog digital converters and image sensors including the same
The analog-digital converter (ADC) includes a modulator and a digital integrator. The modulator is configured to modulate an input signal and output a modulated signal. The digital integrator includes a plurality of accumulators serially connected to one another. The digital integrator is configured to integrate the modulated signal to output an integration result.
US08094048B2 Method of decoding syntax element in context-based adaptive binary arithmetic coding decoder and decoding device therefor
A method and device for decoding a syntax element are provided. The method includes reading candidate context models which correspond to a syntax element to be decoded; determining a context index increment for the syntax element; selecting a candidate context model of the candidate context models according to the context index increment; and performing binary arithmetic decoding for the syntax element based on the selected candidate context model. The device includes a context model reservoir which reads and stores candidate context models corresponding to a syntax element to be decoded; an increment determining unit which determines a context index increment for the syntax element; a context model selection unit which selects a candidate context model of the candidate context models by using the context index increment; and a decoding unit which performs a binary arithmetic decoding operation for the syntax element based on the selected candidate context model.
US08094047B2 Data serializer apparatus and methods
Some embodiments include apparatus and methods having an output line, clock nodes to receive clock signals, the clock signals being out of phase with each other, and selector circuits to receive data in parallel. In at least one embodiment, the selector circuits are responsive to the clock signals to transfer the data serially to the output line. Such apparatus and methods can also include a control unit to influence a portion of a signal that represents at least a portion of the data at the output line. Additional apparatus and methods are described.
US08094046B2 Signal processing apparatus and signal processing method
Disclosed herein is a signal processing apparatus including: a first decimation processing section for generating, based on a digital signal in a first form, a digital signal in a second form; a second decimation processing section for generating, based on the digital signal in the second form, a digital signal in a third form; a first signal processing section for processing the digital signal in the third form; an interpolation processing section for converting a digital signal in the third form outputted from the first signal processing section into a digital signal in the second form; a second signal processing section for processing the digital signal in the second form outputted from the first decimation processing section; and a combining section for combining the digital signals in the second form outputted from the interpolation processing section and the second signal processing section.
US08094045B2 Data bus inversion apparatus, systems, and methods
Apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed such as those that operate to encode data bits transmitted on a plurality of channels according to at least one of multiple Data Bus Inversion (DBI) algorithms. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed.
US08094041B2 Seat cushion retention and monitoring in an aircraft
An aircraft seating system comprises a seat frame having a top side, a seat cushion having a bottom side, a plurality of conductive first sides of a hook-and-loop fastener system attached to the bottom side of the seat cushion in a first pattern, a plurality of conductive second sides of the hook-and-loop fastener system attached to the top side of the seat frame in a second pattern, and a sensor connector connected to the second pattern. The plurality of conductive first sides and the plurality of conductive second sides engage each other and create a closed circuit for the sensor connector when the bottom side of the seat cushion is placed on the top side of the seat frame.
US08094039B2 Application solution of infrared communication in automatic sensing sanitary wares
An application solution using infrared communication in automatic sensing for use in bathroom sanitary wares. A main circuit board emits an infrared pulse signal on one side to detect a user. After a user is detected, the main circuit board produces a group of pulse collated code opening valve signals to drive another infrared emitting diode to send this collated code. The infrared receiving diode on the slave board receives this collated code, transforms it into a pulse signal and then transmits it to the chip for procession. If the collated codes agree with each other, the solenoid valve can be controlled to open or close the valve. At the same time, the collated code is returned to the main circuit board, which consequently stops emitting the collated code signal for opening the valve.
US08094031B1 Device and method for detecting leaks and protecting surfaces from water damage due to leaks
An air freshening device is provided for detecting water leaks and protecting surfaces from water damage due to leaks. The device includes: a tray, configured for being placed upon a surface located under a water pipe; a removable and replaceable liner placed upon the tray, the liner comprising a material configured for releasing an air freshening substance into air, and for increasing the release rate of the substance upon contact with water. The increase of the release rate of the substance leads to an intensifying of the scent of the substance in air, and indicates the presence of a leak from the water pipe. The tray prevents water leaking from the water pipe from touching the surface.
US08094028B2 Radio frequency alignment object, carriage and associated method of storing a product associated therewith
A carrier apparatus is provided that includes a body and a fastener configured to affix the body to a product. The body includes a radio frequency (RF) transponder tag, or marker for directing inclusion of an RF transponder tag, at a designated location on the body. The apparatus of this aspect further includes a positioning feature configured to position the body, RF transponder tag and affixed product relative to an RF antenna separate from the RF transponder tag. This positioning feature may be configured to position the body, RF transponder tag and affixed product in a manner ensuring approximately at least a predetermined spatial relationship between the RF transponder tag and the antenna or one or more other RF transponder tags located proximate the RF transponder tag. A carriage apparatus and method of storing a product are also provided.
US08094026B1 Organized retail crime detection security system and method
A method for using electronic product identification devices to track the purchase or theft of any multiple merchandise items in a food store or other retail shopping store environment, to determine if a large quantity of items are in the process of being stolen, to activate an alarm condition in a surveillance camera system, alert store security, and send tag information (list of stolen contents thereof) and a video clip file or URL of a web site link to view a video file to store security using remote mobile devices, and to law enforcement if desired.
US08094016B2 Status determination method and image forming apparatus
A plurality of weak discriminators output determinations results about a status of an apparatus. Weight values are individually assigned to the determination results. By performing majority vote of the weighted determination results, the status of the apparatus is determined. The determination results are displayed on a single status indicating screen such that portions corresponding to a normal status are indicated in white while portions corresponding to an anomalous status are indicated in one or more colors other than white. The areas of the portions differ from one another depending on magnitudes of weight assigned to the determination results corresponding to the portions.
US08094014B2 Packaging comprising integrated sensor
Packaging for receiving a substance having chemical properties which may change between a time when the substance is introduced for the first time into the packaging and a later time when the substance is used, the packaging including a main body; a closure member; a first sensor arranged in the main body and suitable for delivering a signal representing a measurement of a physicochemical property of the substance contained in the packaging; a display member for generating visual information representing the measurement; a processing unit for conditioning the signal delivered by the first sensor and for displaying the visual information by means of the display member; an electric power source for supplying the first sensor, the display member and the processing unit.
US08094010B2 Programmable communicator
A programmable communicator device is disclosed having a wireless communications circuit, including an antenna, configured to receive a transmission, and an identity module having a unique identifier. The programmable communicator further includes a processing module including program code configured to determine if the transmission is from an authenticated caller by determining whether a received transmission contains the unique identifier, and memory configured to store telephone numbers or IP addresses received in transmissions from an authenticated caller.
US08094008B2 Coded acoustic wave sensors and system using time diversity
An apparatus and method for distinguishing between sensors that are to be wirelessly detected is provided. An interrogator device uses different, distinct time delays in the sensing signals when interrogating the sensors. The sensors are provided with different distinct pedestal delays. Sensors that have the same pedestal delay as the delay selected by the interrogator are detected by the interrogator whereas other sensors with different pedestal delays are not sensed. Multiple sensors with a given pedestal delay are provided with different codes so as to be distinguished from one another by the interrogator. The interrogator uses a signal that is transmitted to the sensor and returned by the sensor for combination and integration with the reference signal that has been processed by a function. The sensor may be a surface acoustic wave device having a differential impulse response with a power spectral density consisting of lobes. The power spectral density of the differential response is used to determine the value of the sensed parameter or parameters.
US08094000B2 Surroundings monitoring apparatus for a motor vehicle
In a surroundings monitoring apparatus, a front approaching object detection section detects a front approaching object that is approaching the vehicle from ahead from among objects sensed by a front millimeter wave radar. An object specifying section specifies the object which has been detected as the front approaching object by the front approaching object detection section from among objects sensed by a rear millimeter wave radar. A rear approaching object detection section excludes the object specified by the object specifying section from the objects sensed by the rear millimeter wave radar to detect a rear approaching object that is approaching the vehicle from behind.
US08093998B2 System and method for setting functions according to location
An apparatus, system, and method for controlling functions of a vehicular alarm. The method includes receiving one or more signals including location information, determining a location of the vehicle using the location information, setting one or more functions based on the location information, determining whether an alarm function is activated, and activating the one or more functions according to the setting upon determining that an alarm has been activated. The method may further include using GPS data or signals transmitted from one or more base stations (e.g., from cellular telephone base stations, computer networks, proprietary transmitters, etc.) to determine the position of the apparatus (e.g., installed in the vehicle). The apparatus may also inform a user of regulations relating to an area dependent upon its location.
US08093994B2 Animal warning device
An animal warning device for emitting a sound that is loud and consistent enough to cause animals to avoid oncoming vehicles. The present invention accomplishes this objective by electrically connecting a speaker to a wind-powered generator. The wind-powered generator is driven by air current striking an impeller. The device is mounted onto a vehicle such that oncoming air current strikes the impeller causing the impeller to rotate. Rotation of the impeller causes the generator to produce a current which powers the speaker. As such, it is unnecessary to connect the animal warning device to an external power source, such as the vehicle's alternator or battery.
US08093993B2 Identification tag information reminder system and method and portable identification tag information reminder device using the method
An identification tag information reminder system and a method thereof are provided. The system comprises an identification tag, for storing a tag identification code, an identification condition data and a reminder message corresponding to the identification condition data; and a portable device, comprising a memory, for storing a plurality of predetermined reminder conditions; an identification tag access module, for accessing the tag identification code, the identification condition data and the reminder message corresponding to the identification condition data of the identification tag; a processing module, for comparing the predetermined reminder condition with the tag identification code and the identification condition data to generate a comparison result; and an indicating module, for outputting the reminder message according to the comparison result.
US08093985B1 Architecture for a highly accurate DCP
Circuits, methods, and apparatus that provide highly accurate DCPs. One example provides a DCP that includes a resistor string having taps that may be selected by a corresponding number of switches under the control of a digital word. To compensate for parasitic switch resistances and for variations in the values of the resistor sting caused by processing tolerances, a voltage-controlled resistor (VCR) is placed in parallel with the resistor string and switches. A control voltage generated using a control loop adjusts the parallel VCR such that the resistance seen across the DCP is the desired value. The control loop compares a reference resistor to loop components that are scaled to the resistor string, switches, and VCR. The reference resistor may be an external resistor or an internal resistor. If the resistor is internal, it may be trimmed, for example with lasers or fuses.
US08093979B2 Transformer based voltage supply
There is disclosed a voltage summer including a transformer having a primary side and a secondary side, wherein a first voltage to be summed is connected to the primary side and a second voltage to be summed is connected to the secondary side. There is further disclosed a transformer comprising a primary winding and a secondary winding and having a turns ratio of primary winding to secondary winding of x:y, providing x turns in series in the primary winding and providing y turns in series in the secondary winding; providing an equal number of turns in the primary and secondary windings; and closely coupling each primary winding turn with a secondary winding turn.
US08093978B2 Coil component
A coil component 1 includes: a pot core 2; a coil 10 for generating magnetic flux when a predetermined electric current is supplied; a piezoelectric actuator 15 for changing the position of a movable core portion 11 with respect to the coil 10 in response to a control signal supplied from the outside and for passing the movable core portion 11 through the magnetic flux of closed magnetic-path, which is generated by the coil 10. Also, the piezoelectric actuator 15 includes: a piezoelectric device 9 for creating displacement in parallel with the thickness direction caused by the control signal, a moving body 11 connected to the piezoelectric device 9 and the movable core portion 11 for moving the movable core portion 11 in response to the displacement which occurred for the piezoelectric device 9, and a friction-drive rod 13 for rendering the moving body 11 moved by the displacement which occurred for the piezoelectric device 9 to be stationary at a predetermined position.
US08093967B1 MEMS high speed switching converter
The present invention provides a DC high voltage converter having an oscillator driver, main switch array and topological enhanced capacitors. The switch array utilizes MEM cantilevers and topological capacitors for charge storages for the generation of a high voltage output from a low voltage input utilizing the chattering motion of the cantilever.
US08093962B2 Filter, duplexer and communication apparatus
A filter has a plurality of piezoelectric thin film resonators formed by sandwiching a piezoelectric film with a lower electrode disposed on a substrate and an upper electrode. Each of the piezoelectric thin film resonators has an electrode region formed with the upper electrode and the lower electrode overlapping each other, whose outline includes a curve. Among the plural piezoelectric thin film resonators, the piezoelectric thin film resonators in the opposing electrode regions of the adjacent piezoelectric thin film resonators are shaped to have outlines complementary to each other. With the filter, influences caused by transverse mode undesired wave of the piezoelectric thin film resonators can be suppressed. Therefore, miniaturization can be achieved without sacrificing the mechanical strength of electrodes having hollow structures.
US08093956B2 Circuit for adjusting the temperature coefficient of a resistor
A temperature-compensated-resistance (TCR) circuit, which may be part of an integrated circuit, is provided. The TCR circuit consists of two resistors and a diode. The two resistors are connected in parallel and the diode is connected in series with one of the resistors. The two parallel legs of the TCR circuit may be connected to a reference voltage source, such as a ground. No specialized devices, such as bipolar transistors, Zener or Schottky diodes, or specially-processed resistors, are required by the TCR circuit. The resistors and the diode of the TCR circuit may be chosen to adjust for temperature variations in the resistance values of the resistor, leading to a negative, zero, or positive temperature coefficient of resistance for the circuit. A phase-locked loop (PLL) circuit is described as an application of the TCR circuit.
US08093953B2 Amplifier system with digital adaptive power boost
An amplifier system with digital adaptive power boost includes a charge pump for providing a power supply to an amplifier. The charge pump may switch between a fixed input DC voltage and a boosted value for a certain period of time in response to an increase in an input signal to the amplifier. The charge pump may use a switching transistor which is switched on only when the input signal to the amplifier exceeds a threshold. The amplifier system may be used for envelope tracking, especially for envelope tracking of low duty cycle signals, e.g., xDSL or vDSL.
US08093950B2 Power amplifier having transformer
A power amplifier amplifying and compositing differential signals and capable of suppressing harmonics is provided. The power amplifier includes first amplifiers amplifying a first input signal and a second input signal, which are differential signals, a first coil receiving the first input signal and the second input signal amplified by the first amplifiers, a second coil magnetically coupled with the first coil and outputting a composite signal of the amplified first input signal and second input signal, a third coil magnetically coupled with the second coil, and a first capacitor coupled between both ends of the third coil, wherein one end of the first capacitor is coupled to a ground node.
US08093946B2 Joint optimisation of supply and bias modulation
There is disclosed a technique for controlling at least one amplification stage, comprising: selecting a linearity objective for the amplification stage; in dependence on an input signal to said amplification stage, determining a combination of supply input and bias input for the amplification stage in order to meet said linearity objective; and in dependence on there being more than one combination of supply input and bias input for meeting the linearity objective, selecting the combination that optimizes a further system performance objective for the amplification stage. The further system performance objective may be one or more of: an efficiency objective; an envelope signal bandwidth objective; or a robustness to production tolerance objective.
US08093945B2 Joint optimisation of supply and bias modulation
A radio frequency amplifier system is disclosed in which the amplifier bias supply and power supply voltages are instantaneously modulated with signals derived from the envelope voltage of the input signal. Separate non-linear mapping functions are used to derive the supply and bias voltages. The two mapping functions are optimised jointly to achieve particular system performance goals, such as optimum efficiency, constant gain, constant phase, or minimum spectral spreading. An optimisation of particular interest is that which achieves best RF amplifier power added efficiency subject to achieving constant amplifier gain. In this way the need for pre-distortion linearization may be reduced or eliminated.
US08093944B2 Line driver capable of automatic adjustment of output impedance
A line driver includes an output terminal set for outputting an output signal, a differential amplifier for amplifying an input signal, a series resistor set coupled between the differential amplifier and the output terminal set, a negative-feedback resistor set coupled to the differential amplifier, a feedback variable resistor set coupled between the differential amplifier and the output terminal set, and an adjusting unit coupled to the feedback variable resistor set. The adjusting unit is operable to adjust resistances of the feedback variable resistor set according to the output signal.
US08093942B2 Frequency translation module data clamp
An architecture for processing signal communications between a frequency translation module and an integrated receiver decoder. According to an exemplary embodiment, the signal processing apparatus comprises a demodulator for generating a first signal responsive to an FSK signal, said first signal comprising a varying amplitude and a clamping means for generating a second signal, wherein said second signal has a first value when the amplitude of the first signal is above a predetermined value, and wherein said second signal has a second value when the amplitude is below a second predetermined value.
US08093938B2 Cascoded level shifter protection
A cascoded level shifter for receiving an input signal in a low voltage range and for generating an output signal in a high voltage range is disclosed. The cascoded level shifter is subdivided into a first voltage section and a second voltage section, the first voltage section having a lower voltage supply than the second voltage section, and a combined voltage across the first voltage section and the second voltage section corresponding to the high voltage range, the cascoded level shifter comprising: an input node configured to receive an input signal; a cascoded device disposed in one of the first voltage section and the second voltage section, the cascoded device comprising a driver switch connected in series with a cascode switch at a midpoint node, the cascode switch switching in dependence on a reference voltage of a reference node and the input signal; and reference voltage perturbation circuitry, configured to cause a transient perturbation to the reference voltage in response to a transition of the input signal to cause the cascode switch to switch.
US08093930B2 High frequency fractional-N divider
A divider can include a phase selection circuit that switches between a plurality of phase-separated clock signals in response to a fractional control signal to form a selected clock signal, the selected clock signal being utilized to generate a second clock signal; and a counter that receives the second clock signal and generates the fractional control signal and a transition control signal, the transition control signal indicating when the second clock signal should switch states in response to a transition of the selected clock signal, the counter generating a feed-back clock signal.
US08093926B2 Physical quantity detection circuit and physical quantity sensor device
A physical quantity detection circuit (12) is used for a physical quantity sensor (10) that outputs a sensor signal according to a physical quantity given externally. In the physical quantity detection circuit (12), an analog-to-digital converter (104) converts an analog sensor signal (Ssnc) to a digital sensor signal (Dsnc). A digital filter (100) attenuates a frequency component of the digital sensor signal (Dsnc) that is higher than a predetermined cutoff frequency. A multiplier (106) multiplies a digital sensor signal (Dps) having passed the digital filter (100) by a digital detection signal (Ddet) to detect a digital physical quantity signal (Dphy).
US08093924B2 Low side driver
An output driver circuit has an input, an output node, and first and second transistors coupled in series between the output node and a first source of operating potential. Parasitic diodes of the first and second transistors are anti-serially coupled. The output driver circuit has first and second control circuits coupled to control the first and second transistors respectively. The first transistor is controlled as a controlled current source depending on a signal at the input during normal conditions when the current that flows through the output is in a first direction, and the second control circuit controls the second transistor to prevent unwanted DC current at the output from flowing through the output in a second direction. The first and second transistors are also controlled to limit unwanted transient currents during an EMC disturbance substantially symmetrically.
US08093922B2 Configurable IC having a routing fabric with storage elements
Some embodiments provide a configurable IC that includes a configurable routing fabric with storage elements. In some embodiments, the routing fabric provides a communication pathway that routes signals to and from source and destination components. The routing fabric of some embodiments provides the ability to selectively store the signals passing through the routing fabric within the storage elements of the routing fabric. In this manner, a source or destination component continually performs operations (e.g., computational or routing) irrespective of whether a previous signal from or to such a component is stored within the routing fabric. The source and destination components include configurable logic circuits, configurable interconnect circuits, and various other circuits that receive or distribute signals throughout the configurable IC.
US08093921B2 Monitoring of interconnect reliability using a programmable device
In one embodiment, the reliability of the L2 power and/or ground sub-arrays of contacts of a functional integrated circuit device is verified by applying a reference voltage to a selected contact in sub-array and sequentially measuring the voltage at other contacts in the sub-array. If the voltage levels are greater than a threshold voltage level then the functional integrated circuit device is verified as being reliable.
US08093918B2 Electronic device identifying method and electronic device comprising identification means
An electronic device that includes an actual operation circuit that operates during an actual operation of the electronic device, a second test circuit and a third test circuit that operate during a test of the electronic device, and a power supply section. The power supply section, during the actual operation of the electronic device, does not apply a power supply voltage to the second test circuit and applies power supply voltages to the actual operation circuit and the third test circuit. The power supply section, to obtain identification of the electronic device, applies a power supply voltage to the second test circuit.
US08093913B2 Film thickness measurement device and method
A film thickness measurement device, which measures the film thickness of an oil film of lubricating oil, formed in a gap between a piston ring and an electrode provided flush with a piston ring sliding surface of a cylinder liner, by detecting the electrostatic capacitance across the gap, employs an electrostatic capacitance detection portion, which charges the electrostatic capacitance by supplying a constant current to the electrode, detects the electrostatic capacitance based on changes in the charging voltage accompanying the charging, and outputs a detection signal indicating the electrostatic capacitance, and a film thickness computation portion, which calculates the film thickness of the oil film based on the electrostatic capacitance indicated by the detection signal input from the electrostatic capacitance detection portion.
US08093911B2 Time-of-flight measurement based on transfer function and simulated exponential stimulus
Systems and methods are described for transmitting a waveform having a controllable attenuation and propagation velocity. An exemplary method comprises: generating an exponential waveform, the exponential waveform (a) being characterized by the equation Vin=De−ASD[x−vSDt], where D is a magnitude, Vin is a voltage, t is time, ASD is an attenuation coefficient, and vSD is a propagation velocity; and (b) being truncated at a maximum value. An exemplary apparatus comprises: an exponential waveform generator; an input recorder coupled to an output of the exponential waveform generator; a transmission line under test coupled to the output of the exponential waveform generator; an output recorder coupled to the transmission line under test; an additional transmission line coupled to the transmission line under test; and a termination impedance coupled to the additional transmission line and to a ground.
US08093909B2 Method and device for measuring phase noise
A method and a device for measuring the phase noise of a signal registers the measurement signal (V) with a given measurement frequency (f1) and with a superimposed phase noise (f1(t)), divides the measurement signal (V) into a first and second measurement signal (V1′, V2′), derives a first signal (V1) with a first frequency ((f1+f1(t))/N) reduced relative to the measurement frequency (f1) and the superimposed phase noise (f1(t)) and a second signal (V2) with a second frequency ((f1+f1(t))/M) reduced relative to the measurement frequency (f1) and the superimposed phase noise (f1(t)), determines a third signal (V3) with a third frequency (f3(t)) compensated by the measurement frequency (f1) relative to the first frequency ((f1+f1(t))/N) of the first signal (V1) and a fourth signal (V4) with a fourth frequency (f4(t)) compensated by the measurement frequency (f1) relative to the second frequency ((f1+f1(t))/M) of the second signal (V2) and determines a correlation spectrum from the third and fourth signal (V3, V4). The frequencies of the third and fourth signal (V3, V4) come to be disposed in each case within the frequency range of the correlation spectrum as a result of the frequency division of the frequency (f1+f1(t)) of the first and second measurement signal (V1′, V2′).
US08093903B2 System and method of processing a current sample for calculating a glucose concentration
A system and method of processing a test current for an analyte measurement in a fluid using a test strip and a test meter are disclosed. The method comprises sampling the test current at a pre-determined sampling rate to acquire a plurality of A/D conversions. The method also comprises filtering out at least a highest magnitude A/D conversion and a lowest magnitude A/D conversion leaving a plurality of accepted A/D conversions. Further, the method comprises calculating an average or a summation of the plurality of accepted A/D conversions and converting the average or the summation into a glucose concentration.
US08093902B2 Device estimating a state of a secondary battery
A diffusion estimation unit follows a diffusion equation in an active material that is represented by a polar coordinate to estimate a distribution in concentration of lithium in the active material. An open circuit voltage estimation unit obtains an open circuit voltage in accordance with a local SOC(θ) based on a concentration of lithium obtained at an interface of the active material as estimated by the diffusion estimation unit. A current estimation unit uses a battery's voltage measured by a voltage sensor, the estimated open circuit voltage, and a parameter value that is set for the battery by a battery parameter value setting unit, and follows a voltage-current relationship model expression simplified from an electrochemical reaction expression to estimate the battery's current density. A boundary condition setting unit sequentially sets a boundary condition for the diffusion equation of the diffusion estimation unit for the active material's interface, as based on the battery's estimated current density. Thus a battery model that allows an internal state to be estimated based on an electrochemical reaction dynamically and can also achieve an alleviated operating load can be used to estimate a state of a secondary battery.
US08093899B2 Magnetic field probe and method for manufacturing the same
A magnetic field probe comprises a sample that exhibits magnetic resonance at an operating frequency, an electrically conductive structure surrounding the sample for receiving a magnetic resonance signal therefrom, and a solid jacket encasing the sample and the conductive structure. The jacket is made of a hardened two-component epoxy system containing a paramagnetic dopant dissolved therein, with the concentration of the dopant being chosen such that the jacket has a magnetic susceptibility that is substantially identical to the magnetic susceptibility of the conductive structure.
US08093892B2 System with 90 degree sense layer magnetic orientation
A system including a sense layer, a first pinned layer and a first interlayer. The first pinned layer is held in a fixed magnetic orientation. The first interlayer is configured to couple the sense layer and the first pinned layer and provide a magnetic orientation in the sense layer that is 90 degrees from the fixed magnetic orientation. The magnetic orientation in the sense layer rotates in response to an external magnetic field.
US08093884B2 Directional coupler
One embodiment comprises a directional coupler system comprising a substrate having a top surface and a backside surface, with the backside surface comprising a metalization ground portion and an unmetalized portion. A power line is coupled to the top surface, with the power line having an input adapted to receive a power signal, a first trace coupled to the input, a second trace in parallel with the first trace and coupled to the input, and an output coupled to the first and second traces and adapted to emit the power signal. A sensor line is coupled to the backside surface unmetalized portion, with the sensor line adapted to emit a sensor line signal having a sensor line signal level generally proportional to the power signal. Finally, a thermo-conductive base platform coupled to the metalized portion of the backside surface.
US08093878B2 Switching power supply device
A switching power supply device for a ripple control system that can obtain the ripple component with the necessary amplitude without using discrete elements. On capacitor Ci of CR integrator 11, a voltage is generated corresponding to the integration value of the voltage applied to inductor Lo. The ripple voltage generated on capacitor Ci has a waveform similar to that of the ripple current flowing through inductor Lo. The voltage of capacitor Ci is converted into current Iq by voltage/current converter 12, and the current is injected in resistor R3 arranged on the transmission path of output feedback voltage VFB in comparator 2. Resistor R3 generates ripple voltage (Iqxr3) corresponding to the ripple current flowing through inductor Lo. The synthetic voltage of the ripple voltage and output feedback voltage VFB is compared to reference voltage Vref.
US08093870B2 Generator apparatus with active load dump protection
A generator apparatus includes a generator, a generator controller, and a rectifier bridge. A detector unit for recognizing a load shutoff is also provided. When a load shutoff is recognized, a switch is controlled to be transmissive so that energy produced by the load shutoff is stored in an energy reservoir. From there it can be fed back into the vehicle electrical system.
US08093869B1 Apparatus for generating electricity utilizing nondestructive interference of energy
A ferromagnetic material having non-zero magnetoelasticity, and/or nonzero magnetostriction is driven with vibratory mechanical energy at a frequency producing at least one resonant vibratory mode, by coupling a source of vibratory energy to the ferromagnetic structure. The ferromagnetic material threads at least one conductive wire or wire coil, and couples to at least one source of magnetic induction, and provides an electrical power output driven by the magnetic induction. The origin of vibratory energy and the site or sites of magnetic induction are situated at distinct locations, separated by a specific distance not less than ⅛ the fundamental acoustic wavelength. Various combinations of acoustic wavelength, ferromagnetic material type, and source of vibration produce independent transfer coefficients between acoustic and electromagnetic energy which are either positive, zero, or negative.
US08093864B2 Battery with electronic compartment
An electronic containment battery includes a battery section and an electronic section that together form a standard battery form factor that allows insertion into conventional electronic devices. The electronic section can include Radio Frequency (RF) circuitry that enables electronic operations in the electronic containment battery to be communicated or controlled wirelessly.
US08093863B2 Battery pack for cordless power tools
A battery pack which includes a battery pack electronic control circuit adapted to control an attached power tool and/or an attached charger. The battery pack includes additional protection circuits, methodologies and devices to protect against fault conditions within the pack, as the pack is operatively attached to and providing power to the power tool, and/or as the pack is operatively attached to and being charged by the charger.
US08093862B2 Systems, apparatus and methods for battery charge management
Systems, apparatus, and methods for automobile battery management is provided. In one embodiment, an apparatus for providing balanced and individualized charging to a battery pack is provided. The apparatus uses microcontrollers to determine a charge level of the batteries, and correspondingly controls a power balancer to apply a charge current to the battery in relation to the charge level, and dissipates the remaining charge current as heat energy. In one embodiment, a system controller controls a balanced charging operation of the battery system, provides an interface for a user to monitor cell-level parameters, and protects the battery cells from undercharging or overcharging during the charging or discharging operations.
US08093861B2 Power transfer system for a rechargeable battery
An apparatus and method for transferring energy between a rechargeable battery and a power distribution network. The minimum final energy level may be determined at least in part from the historical energy levels and usage of the rechargeable battery. The time of day of charging the battery may be determined at least in part from information provided by the energy provider.
US08093854B2 Fan speed control system
A system for controlling the fan speed is described. Specifically, one embodiment of the present invention set forth a computing system, which includes a first processing unit including a first sensor, wherein the first processing unit is configured to generate a first pulse-width modulation signal, and a first transmission line further including a first direct current voltage converter configured to convert the first pulse-width modulation signal to a first direct current voltage and a first diode coupled to the first direct current voltage converter, wherein the first diode determines whether the first direct current voltage passes through the first diode. The computing system further includes an amplifier coupled to the first diode, wherein the amplifier is configured to amplify a selected direct current voltage to drive a fan.
US08093852B2 Motor control device
A motor control device has a plurality of drive circuits that are respectively provided on arms of an inverter circuit that supplies current to an AC motor, the plurality of drive circuits driving respectively a plurality of switching elements included on the arms; a power source control circuit that performs a control of a plurality of power supply circuits that supply power respectively to the plurality of drive circuits; a low-voltage circuit area that includes the power source control circuit; a plurality of high-voltage circuit areas, each high-voltage circuit area including a drive circuit from the plurality of drive circuits; and a plurality of transformers that serve as the plurality of power supply circuits and respectively join the low-voltage circuit area and the plurality of high-voltage circuit areas in an insulated state.
US08093850B2 Fan control system
A fan control system includes a linear adjustor, an input/output controller, and a temperature sensor. A first terminal of the linear adjustor is connected to a first power supply. A second terminal of the linear adjustor is connected to a fan and grounded via a first resistor and a second resistor in series. A third terminal of the linear adjustor is connected to a node between the first resistor and the second resistor. A first terminal of the input/output controller is connected to the third terminal of the linear adjustor via a third resistor. A second terminal of the input/output controller is connected to the temperature sensor.
US08093849B2 Closure panel control apparatus
In a closure panel control apparatus, an ECU controls a rotational speed of an electric motor, which provides a drive force to drive a closure panel in an opening movement and a closing movement thereof. The ECU obtains a vehicle speed measured with a vehicle speed sensor and receives a command signal from a switch, which is operable by an occupant of a vehicle to command the opening movement or the closing movement of the closure panel. The ECU controls the rotational speed of the electric motor based on the measured vehicle speed that is obtained at the time of receiving the command signal from the switch.
US08093848B2 Motor driving apparatus and motor driving method
One terminal of a first capacitor is set to a fixed electric potential. A charging/discharging circuit charges/discharges the first capacitor using a current that corresponds to an input signal which specifies the revolution of a motor. A comparator compares a voltage at the first capacitor with a predetermined voltage. A control signal generating unit generates a control voltage having a level that corresponds to an edge timing of a frequency signal synchronized with the rotation of the motor and an edge timing of the comparison signal output from the first comparator. Furthermore, the control signal generating unit switches the charging/discharging state of a charging/discharging circuit according to an edge of the periodic signal and an edge of the comparison signal. The motor is driven with a torque according to the control voltage.
US08093847B2 Motor drive circuit, method, and disc device using the same
A back electromotive force detection circuit detects a zero-crossing point by comparing a back electromotive force Vu in at least one coil of a motor with a center tap voltage at a common node of the coils, and outputs a back electromotive force detection signal. A switching control circuit controls switching states of multiple switching circuits based upon the back electromotive force detection signal, thereby adjusting the current flowing through the coils. A window generating circuit outputs a window signal at a predetermined level during a period obtained by multiplying the cycle of the back electromotive force detection signal by a predetermined coefficient before the detection of the zero-crossing point. The switching control circuit stops the switching operation during a period in which the window signal is maintained at the predetermined level, thereby setting the state to the high impedance state that corresponds to a non-driving period.
US08093845B2 Controller and MCU chip for controlling 3-phase brushless DC motor
The present invention discloses a 3-phase brushless DC motor controller, which comprises: a unit for generating a PWM signal; an ADC for converting a back electromotive force (BEMF) signal from an analog form into a digital form; a synchronization and extraction unit operating in synchronization in part with the PWM signal for extracting the digital BEMF signal to obtain a corresponding ZCP signal; and a unit for judging whether a commutation operation is to be performed according to a change of the corresponding ZCP signal. A wait instruction and a delay instruction help to accurately acquire the digital BEMF signal.
US08093841B1 System and method for faster response time in stereo/mono detection
An audio receiver may include a mono/stereo detector that causes the audio receiver to output either a monophonic or a stereophonic signal based on a difference between a pilot energy signal and a filtered pilot energy signal. The audio receiver includes a filter that filters the pilot energy signal to generate a filtered pilot energy signal, wherein a variable leakage factor associated with the filter is used to minimize a noise level of the filtered pilot energy signal and to reduce a response time of the audio receiver.
US08093840B1 Use of off-axis injection as an alternative to geometrically merging beams in an energy-recovering linac
A method of using off-axis particle beam injection in energy-recovering linear accelerators that increases operational efficiency while eliminating the need to merge the high energy re-circulating beam with an injected low energy beam. In this arrangement, the high energy re-circulating beam and the low energy beam are manipulated such that they are within a predetermined distance from one another and then the two immerged beams are injected into the linac and propagated through the system. The configuration permits injection without geometric beam merging as well as decelerated beam extraction without the use of typical beamline elements.
US08093839B2 Method and apparatus for driving CCFL at low burst duty cycle rates
A cold cathode fluorescent lamp controller constituted of a pulse generator exhibiting a cycle period; a burst dimming control operative to set a burst dimming duty cycle for the pulse generator; a comparator arranged to receive a signal indicative of the value of current through a load driven by the pulse generator and compare the received signal to a reference signal; an error detection circuit operative to shut down the pulse generator responsive to an output of the comparator indicating that the received signal is less than the reference signal for a predetermined number of cycles of the pulse generator; and a disable circuit arranged to prevent, when the set burst dimming duty cycle is less than a predetermined value, the shut down of the pulse generator responsive to the output of the comparator indicating the received signal is less than the reference signal.
US08093837B2 Lamp ballast and an illumination apparatus
A lamp ballast capable of lighting a discharge lamp and an incandescent lamp each at an optimum condition. The lamp ballast has a DC-DC converter, an inverter that converts an output of DC-DC converter into an AC power for applying the same to a lamp load, a starting circuit generating a high voltage pulse from the AC power to provide the same to the lamp load, and a controller that controls the DC-DC converter and the inverter to provide a variable DC voltage and the AC power of variable frequency. The controller has a starting mode of operating the inverter at a starting frequency to generate the high voltage, and a lighting mode of operating the inverter at a lighting frequency lower than the starting frequency. The controller has a detection mode of causing the DC-DC converter to output a detection voltage of a predetermined level prior to the starting mode, a discharge lamp lighting program of operating, after the detection mode, the inverter in the starting mode and subsequently in the lighting mode, and an incandescent lamp lighting program of operating, after the detection mode, the inverter in the lighting mode without through the starting mode. When the detection voltage exceeds a predetermined threshold, the controller selects the discharge lamp lighting program, and otherwise selects the incandescent lamp lighting program. When the incandescent lamp is connected, the ballast turns on the incandescent lamp without applying a high voltage pulse so as to avoid lowering of the lamp life.
US08093828B2 Drive circuit, light emitting diode head, and image forming apparatus
A drive circuit includes a drive element for supplying a drive current to a driven element; a control voltage generation circuit for outputting a control voltage to the drive element to generate the drive current through inputting a reference voltage; and a switch section for shutting down the reference voltage when the driven element is not driven so that the control voltage decreases to a level not to generate the drive current.
US08093817B2 Method and system for lighting control
A method and a system for controlling at least one lighting arrangement (2), in which the lighting arrangement modulates the light (6, 16, 18) it emits by lighting arrangement data, which contains an identification code identifying the lighting arrangement, a user control device (12) is suitable to receive the light from the lighting arrangement and to derive therefrom the lighting arrangement data, the user control device measures a property of the received light, apart from it representing data, to provide additional data which is associated with the lighting arrangement which is associated with the identification code contained in the received data, the user control device transmits the lighting arrangement data and the additional data, and a main control device (10) is suitable to receive the data transmitted by the user control device and to therewith control the operation of the lighting arrangement.
US08093802B1 Light emitting diode with a deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) biopolymer
The present invention uses a DNA-based biopolymer material as a host for phosphor guest materials that are used for solid state lighting. The DNA-biopolymer replaces the epoxies, which are typically used as the hosts for these phosphors. The resulting DNA-biopolymer phosphor can either be deposited directly on the light emitting diode die by casting or onto the inside of the lens or dome placed on top of the LED by casting, spin depositing, electro-spinning or vapor deposition. The purpose of the invention is to enhance the light output and efficiency of solid state lighting and to red shift the light emission or shift the emission to longer wavelength. This would render brighter solid state lighting that operates at lower input power, generate less heat and have longer lifetimes. It would also reduce or eliminate the cold or blue tinted color of solid state lighting by warming or red shifting the emission of these devices.
US08093800B2 Sputtering target, sintered article, conductive film fabricated by utilizing the same, organic EL device, and substrate for use therein
A sintered article is fabricated which contains one or more of indium oxide, zinc oxide, and tin oxide as a component thereof and contains any one or more types of metal out of hafnium oxide, tantalum oxide, lanthanide oxide, and bismuth oxide. A backing plate is attached to this sintered article to constitute a sputtering target. This sputtering target is used to fabricate a conductive film on a predetermined substrate by sputtering. This conductive film achieves a large work function while maintaining as much transparency as heretofore. This conductive film can be used to achieve an EL device or the like of improved hole injection efficiency.
US08093796B2 Electron beam apparatus and image display apparatus
An electron beam apparatus 11 comprises a substrate 1, a first electrode wiring 2 formed on the substrate 1, an insulating layer 4 covering the first electrode wiring 2, a second electrode wiring 3 formed on the insulating layer 4 so as to cross the first electrode wiring 2, and on the substrate 1, an electron emitting device 6 located distant from an electrode wiring crossing region 9 where the first electrode wiring 2 and the second electrode wiring 3 cross each other, and connected to both the first electrode wiring 2 and the second electrode wiring 3 so as to receive drive energy from the first electrode wiring 2 and the second electrode wiring 3, wherein a void 5 is formed between the first electrode wiring 2 and the second electrode wiring 3 in at least a part of the electrode wiring crossing region 9.
US08093792B2 Headlight lamp
A headlight lamp with at least one incandescent filament, which is surrounded by a lamp vessel. The at least one incandescent filament is constructed in such a way that during lamp operation it generates a luminous flux, the value of which is greater than a predetermined permissible maximum value for the luminous flux of the lamp. The lamp vessel has a region of reduced transparency, with the aid of which the luminous flux emerging from the headlight lamp during lamp operation is reduced to a value of less than or equal to the predetermined permissible maximum value.
US08093778B2 Electric machine, particularly asynchronous three-phase hydrogenerator
An electrical machine, in particular a three-phase asynchronous hydrogenerator, includes a rotor and a stator, wherein one of the rotor and the stator include a core with a plurality of winding slots. The machine has a winding having a plurality of axially extending winding bars, wherein each of the plurality of winding slots receives two winding bars disposed one on top of the other, and wherein the plurality of winding bars emerge from the plurality of winding slots at an end side of the machine, and wherein each of a majority of the plurality of winding bars is electrically connected to another winding bar in an end winding so as to form a pair of winding bars according to a predetermined scheme.
US08093774B2 Direct current motor
A direct current motor includes: a stator (2) on which a plurality of coils (4) is provided; a rotor (8) including a plurality of permanent magnet magnetic poles (9) that is provided so as to face an inner periphery of the stator, and a pipe (11) on one end; a current-carrying portion (19) that is provided on the other end of the rotor (8) and commutates current supplied from a power source to the coils (4) on the stator (2); a sleeve bearing (6) that holds the rotor (8); and a ball bearing (7) that holds the rotor (8) and has a larger load-bearing capacity than that of the sleeve bearing (6). Furthermore, the pipe (11) holds the ball bearing (7) and is in direct contact with the ball bearing (7).
US08093761B2 Bipolar pulse generators with voltage multiplication
A bipolar pulse generator includes two, two-conductor transmission lines coupled together with a load positioned between the two transmission lines. Each conductor of a transmission line we define as a segment. Two segments of one transmission line are charged and switchably coupled to two segments of the other transmission line to produce a bipolar pulse on the matched load. This bipolar pulse generator may be implemented in a flat or a folded design. The generator may include two transmission line structures coupled together with a load positioned between each transmission line structures. The first transmission line structure may include a stepped transmission line and an embedded transmission line segment. A switch may be coupled between the embedded transmission line segment and another segment of the transmission line structure. During operation, the first transmission line structure may be charged to a potential with the switch in the open position and, when the switch is closed, the charge on the first transmission line structure together with the second transmission line structure generates a bipolar pulse on the matched load.
US08093759B2 Regulated energy supply for a rapidly cycling integrated circuit with reduced electromagnetic radiation
A device (12) supplies energy to a rapid cycling and/or rapidly cycled integrated circuit (13, 52) which includes a circuit load (17) and an internal capacity (15) connected parallel to the circuit load (17). The integrated circuit (13, 52) has a high cycle frequency (f1) especially at least in the MHz range. A supply unit (14) especially designed as a current source is directly connected to the internal capacity (15). The supply unit (14) has an internal resistance, the impedance level of which is so high at the cycle frequency (f1) that a current (ID2) supplying the circuit load (17) originates to a greater degree from the internal capacity (15) than from the supply unit (14). At least one auxiliary load, current sink or load controller is provided as an integral component of the integrated circuit and is connected to the circuit load to smooth load fluctuations.
US08093750B2 Power strip system
A power strip system includes a master control socket, at least one subsidiary socket of which the power on/off status is decided by a current of the master control socket, a current detecting unit connected with the master control socket for detecting the current of the master control socket and sending a corresponding current signal, a control module receiving and analyzing the current signal sent by the current detecting unit and then generating a corresponding control signal, a voltage regulating module providing a regulated voltage for the control module to be used as a power supply of the control module, and a switch module including a switch device and a switching unit controlling the switch device to turn on/off the subsidiary socket according to the control signal of the control module.
US08093749B1 Sharing redundant power supply modules among physical systems
A system may include a switchover element configurable to source or sink power from or to an electronic device electrically coupled to the switchover element and a controller in communication with the switchover element. The controller may be configured to determine if the electronic device is healthy. When the electronic device is healthy, the controller may configure the switchover element to deliver power from the electronic device to the system and configure the switchover element to provide the power to any unhealthy electronic device electrically coupled to the system.
US08093744B2 Power mains distribution panel data link
A power mains distribution or breaker panel, and individual circuit breaker or relay therein having a circuit threacross providing a data path independent of the circuit breaker or relay operation. Alternate embodiments include circuits to control the data path and data path characteristics from data provided by either the line or load side of the power mains panel.
US08093741B2 Method and system for providing increased turbine output for doubly fed induction generator
A system and method for supplying increased frequency supporting current from a doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) to assist in maintaining grid stability is provided. The output capability of a line side converter associated with the DFIG is enhanced by significantly increasing the current handling capacity of electric switches forming the converter. A dynamic brake is also provided across a DC link bus coupling the line side converter to another converter coupled to the rotor of the DFIG. The dynamic brake is controlled based on the voltage across the DC link bus.
US08093736B2 Wave energy harnessing device
A hydrokinetic device having a water surface float tethered to a submerged buoyant housing is provided with mechanisms for optimizing the amount of wave energy extracted from the waves by the device. Based on wave conditions, the optimization functionalities include controlling the depth of the housing to produce wave shoaling or storm avoidance, as well as to perform continuous phase control and load control for the purpose of matching the response frequency of the device to the frequency of the incident waves.
US08093734B2 Cogeneration system
In a cogeneration system having at least with a generation unit comprising a generator connectable to an AC power feed line between a commercial power network and an electrical load, an internal combustion engine for driving the generator, and a battery, the cogeneration system producing hot air/water through exchange heat generated by the engine to supply to a thermal load, it is determined whether it is a predetermined self-diagnosis time, and when the result is affirmative, the generation unit is operated by an output of the battery and self-diagnoses is made on at least one of output voltage of the battery, a speed of the engine and an output of the generator, when it is determined to be the predetermined self-diagnosis time.
US08093728B2 Connection by fitting together two soldered inserts
A connection device between two components includes a hollow conductive insert, into which is fitted another conductive insert, the electrical connection between the two inserts being provided by means of a solder element.
US08093721B2 Flip chip semiconductor package and fabrication method thereof
There is provide a flip chip semiconductor package comprising: an electrode pad formed a semiconductor substrate; a lower metal bonding layer formed on the electrode pad; an upper metal bonding layer formed on the lower metal bonding layer and having a post shape of a predetermined height; and a conductive bump formed on the upper metal bonding layer, and a solder bump covers at least partially the surface of the upper metal bonding layer. An insulating layer for electrode reconfiguration is formed around the electrode pad on the substrate, and the insulating layer has a predetermined thickness to prevent the penetration of α particles from the solder bump. The semiconductor package may further comprise an oxidation preventing layer between the solder bump and the upper metal bonding layer. In accordance with the present invention, there is realized the flip chip semiconductor package which improves the adhesive strength of the solder bump and which more improves the reliability in the flip chip bump structure of fine pitches.
US08093720B2 Device, method of manufacturing device, board, method of manufacturing board, mounting structure, mounting method, LED display, LED backlight and electronic device
A mounting structure and a mounting method which are capable of securely electrically connecting wiring on a board and a device to each other in the case where the device is mounted on the board, and are capable of forming a finer bump, and increasing the number of pins are provided. A device includes at least one projection having a structure in which a surface of at least a tip part of a projecting section made of an elastic body is coated with a conductive film.
US08093710B2 Non-uniform feedthrough and lead configuration for a transistor outline package
A transistor outline package having a feedthrough via and lead configuration that maximizes the amount of usable area on a header of the package is disclosed. In one embodiment, the package includes a header having an interior surface that includes a first and second lead assembly. The first lead assembly includes two vias having a first diameter, with each first via being positioned along a first pin circle imaginarily defined on the interior surface of the header. Each first via also includes first leads received therein. The second lead assembly includes four vias having a second diameter each, with each second via being positioned along a second pin circle that has a diameter greater than that of the first pin circle. Each second via includes second leads received therein. This configuration increases usable area on the header interior surface between the leads, enabling relatively larger submounts to be placed thereon.
US08093707B2 Leadframe packages having enhanced ground-bond reliability
Various semiconductor package arrangements and methods that improve the reliability of wire bonding a die to ground or other outside contacts are described. In one aspect, selected ground pads on the die are wire bonded to a bonding region located on the tie bar portion of the lead frame. The tie bar is connected to an exposed die attach pad that is downset from the bonding region of the tie bar. In some embodiments, the bonding region and the leads are at substantially the same elevation above the die and die attach pad. The die, bonding wires, and at least a portion of the lead frame can be encapsulated with a plastic encapsulant material while leaving a contact surface of the die attach pad exposed to facilitate electrically coupling the die attach pad to an external device.
US08093699B2 Circuit device with circuit board and semiconductor chip mounted thereon
A circuit device in which highly reliable sealing with a resin can be achieved is provided. A semiconductor chip is provided on one surface of an insulating resin film and a conductive layer that is electrically connected to the semiconductor chip is provided on another surface of the insulating resin film. A solder ball (electrode) for the connection to a circuit board is provided on the conductive layer. An insulating resin layer is further provided between the conductive layer and the circuit board to embed the electrode therein. In this manner, the circuit device is formed. A side face of the semiconductor chip is covered with the insulating resin film.
US08093692B2 Semiconductor device packaging including a power semiconductor element
A portion of a frame body is fixed on a surface of a heat-radiating plate, and on frame body, a semiconductor chip is die-bonded. Next, a prescribed electrode of semiconductor chip and corresponding lead terminal and the like are electrically connected by a prescribed wire. Next, the lead frame is set in a metal mold such that the semiconductor chip is covered with resin from above the semiconductor chip. Thermoplastic resin is introduced into the metal mold, and semiconductor chip and the like are sealed. By taking out the resulting body from the metal mold, a semiconductor is formed. Thus, a semiconductor device can be provided with reduced manufacturing cost.
US08093670B2 Methods and apparatus for integrated circuit having on chip capacitor with eddy current reductions
Methods and apparatus for providing an integrated circuit including a substrate having a magnetic field sensor, first and second conductive layers generally parallel to the substrate, and a dielectric layer disposed between the first and second conductive layers such that the first and second conductive layers and the dielectric layer form a capacitor, wherein a slot is formed in at least one of the first and second conductive layers proximate the magnetic field sensor for reducing eddy currents in the first and second conductive layers.
US08093668B2 Magnetoresistive random access memory including reference cells
A magnetoresistive random access memory includes first and second magnetoresistive effect element. A shape of the first magnetoresistive effect element has a first length in a first direction and a second length in a second direction. The second length is equal to or greater than the first length. A ratio of the second length to the first length is a first value. The second magnetoresistive effect element is used to determine a resistance state of the first magnetoresistive effect element. A shape of the second magnetoresistive effect element has a third length in a third direction and a fourth length in a fourth direction. The fourth length is equal to or greater than the third length. A ratio of the fourth length to the third length is a second value which is greater than the first value.
US08093667B2 Flexible gate electrode device for bio-sensing
Briefly, disclosed is an apparatus and method for detecting an analyte wherein a flexible gate electrode may respond to mechanical stress and/or electrostatic changes induced by bonding of a biomolecular probe and an analyte.
US08093664B2 Non-volatile semiconductor memory device and depletion-type MOS transistor
A peripheral circuit includes at least a first transistor. The first transistor comprises a gate electrode formed on a surface of a semiconductor layer via a gate insulating film. A channel region of a first conductivity type having a first impurity concentration is formed on a surface of the semiconductor layer directly below and in the vicinity of the gate electrode. A source-drain diffusion region of the first conductivity type is formed on the surface of the semiconductor layer to sandwich the gate electrode and has a second impurity concentration greater than the first impurity concentration. An overlapping region of the first conductivity type is formed on the surface of the semiconductor layer directly below the gate electrode where the channel region and the source-drain diffusion region overlap. The overlapping region has a third impurity concentration greater than the second impurity concentration.
US08093659B2 Three-dimensional stacked-fin-MOS device with multiple gate regions
The invention provides a three-dimensional stacked fin metal oxide semiconductor (SF-MOS) device (10,30) comprising a protrusion or fin structure with a plurality of stacked semiconductor regions (3,5,12), in which a second semiconductor region (5,12) is separated from a first semiconductor region (3,5) by an isolation region (4,11). A gate isolation layer (8) extends at least over the sidewalls of the protrusion (7) and a gate electrode extends over the gate isolation layer (8). The gate electrode comprises a plurality of gate regions (13,14,15) wherein each gate region (13,14,15) extends over another semiconductor region (3,5,12). In this way each gate region (13,14,15) influences the conduction channel of another semiconductor region (3,5,12) and hence adds another degree of freedom with which the performance of the SF-MOS device (10,30) can be optimized. The invention further provides a method of manufacturing the SF-MOS device (10,30) according to the invention.
US08093650B2 Scalable electrically eraseable and programmable memory (EEPROM) cell array
A non-volatile memory (NVM) system includes a plurality of NVM cells fabricated in a dual-well structure. Each NVM cell includes an access transistor and an NVM transistor, wherein the access transistor has a drain region that is continuous with a source region of the NVM transistor. The drain regions of each NVM transistor in a column of the array are commonly connected to a corresponding bit line. The control gates of each NVM transistor in a row of the array are commonly connected to a corresponding word line. The source regions of each of the access transistors in the array are commonly coupled. The NVM cells are programmed and erased without having to apply the high programming voltage VPP across the gate dielectric layers of the access transistors. As a result, the NVM cells can be scaled down to sub-0.35 micron geometries.
US08093646B1 Flash memory device and method of forming the same with improved gate breakdown and endurance
The present invention provides a flash memory device and method for making the same having a floating gate structure with a semiconductor substrate and shallow trench isolation (STI) structure formed in the substrate. A first polysilicon layer is formed over the substrate and the STI structure. The recess formed within the first polysilicon layer is over the STI structure and extends through the first polysilicon layer to the STI structure. An oxide fill is provided within the recess and is etched back. ONO (oxide-nitride-oxide) layer conformally covers the oxide fill and the first polysilicon layer. The second polysilicon layer covers the ONO layer. The oxide fill within the recess provides a minimum spacing between the second polysilicon layer and the corner of the STI regions, thereby avoiding the creation of a weak spot and reducing the risk of gate breakdown, gate leakage, and improving device reliability.
US08093643B2 Multi-resistive integrated circuit memory
A capacitor for use in integrated circuits comprises a layer of conductive material. The layer of conductive material including at least a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion and the second portion are arranged in a predetermined pattern relative to one another to provide a maximum amount of capacitance per semiconductor die area.
US08093639B2 Method for fabricating a semiconductor device
An embodiment of the invention provides a method for forming a semiconductor device comprising providing a substrate with a pad layer formed thereon. The pad layer and the substrate are patterned to form a plurality of trenches. A trench top insulating layer is formed in each trench. Wherein the trench top insulating layer protrudes from the substrate and has an extension portion extending to the pad layer. The pad layer and the substrate are etched by using the trench top insulating layers and the extension portions as a mask to form a recess in the substrate. And a recess gate is formed in the recess.
US08093626B2 Normally-off field effect transistor using III-nitride semiconductor and method for manufacturing such transistor
Provided is a normally-off field effect transistor using a III-nitride semiconductor. The transistor is provided with a III-nitride semiconductor layer grown on a substrate by including an acceptor and a donor; a gate insulating film which is formed on the III-nitride semiconductor layer to have a thickness to be at a prescribed threshold voltage based on the concentration of the acceptor and that of the donor; a gate electrode formed on the gate insulating film; a first source/drain electrode formed on the III-nitride semiconductor layer to one side of and separate from the gate electrode, directly or via a high dopant concentration region; and a second source/drain electrode formed away from the gate electrode and the first source/drain electrode, on or under the III-nitride semiconductor layer, directly or via a high dopant concentration region.
US08093613B2 LED lamp for light source
Whereas incandescent light bulbs and other similar light sources known in the related art emit light in all directions, LED lamps can emit light in a single direction, and this is manifested in the problem of being unable to achieve light distribution characteristics satisfied by conventional headlamp designs. In accordance with an embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter, an LED lamp for a light source of a headlamp can include an LED chip in the vicinity of the focus of a projection means and a shielding member covering a portion of the LED chip in a formation allowing a light distribution characteristic suitable for a vehicle front-illumination light to be obtained when light from the LED chip is magnified and projected in an illumination direction by a projection lens or the like constituting the projection means. Accordingly, accurate light distribution characteristics can be obtained in a simple manner by projecting in the illumination direction using the projection lens.
US08093605B2 Gallium nitride-based compound semiconductor light-emitting device with an electrode covered by an over-coating layer
A gallium nitride-based compound semiconductor light-emitting device includes an n-type semiconductor layer, a light-emitting layer and a p-type semiconductor layer of gallium nitride-based compound semiconductors which are formed in this order on a substrate, the negative electrode and the positive electrode being provided in contact with the n-type semiconductor layer and the p-type semiconductor layer, respectively. The positive electrode includes a first electrode and an over-coating layer covering the side surfaces and upper surface of the first electrode, and the area where the over-coating layer comes into contact with the p-type semiconductor layer is greater at the corner portions of the positive electrode than at the side portions thereof, per unit length of the outer edge of the first electrode.
US08093603B2 Organic light emitting diode display
An organic light emitting diode display includes a substrate, a pixel electrode, a pixel defining film, a light absorbing layer pattern, an organic light emitting layer and a common electrode. The pixel electrode is formed on the substrate, and the pixel defining film formed on the substrate has an opening to expose the pixel electrode. The light absorbing member divides the opening into a plurality of sub-emitting areas within the opening of the pixel defining film. The organic light emitting layer is formed on the pixel electrode, and the common electrode is formed on the organic light emitting layer.
US08093599B2 Silicon carbide Zener diode
A silicon carbide Zener diode is a bipolar semiconductor device that has a mesa structure and includes a silicon carbide single crystal substrate of a first conductivity type, formed thereon, a silicon carbide conductive layer of a first conductivity type, and a silicon carbide conductive layer of a second conductivity type formed on the silicon carbide conductive layer of a first conductivity type, wherein a depletion layer that is formed under reverse bias at a junction between the silicon carbide conductive layer of a first conductivity type and the silicon carbide conductive layer of a second conductivity type does not reach a mesa corner formed in the silicon carbide conductive layer of a first conductivity type.
US08093593B2 Semiconductor device having multichannel transistor
A first shape of semiconductor region having on its one side a plurality of sharp convex top-end portions is formed first and a continuous wave laser beam is used for radiation from the above region so as to crystallize the first shape of semiconductor region. A continuous wave laser beam condensed in one or plural lines is used for the laser beam. The first shape of semiconductor region is etched to form a second shape of semiconductor region in which a channel forming region and a source and drain region are formed. The second shape of semiconductor region is disposed so that a channel forming range would be formed on respective crystal regions extending from the plurality of convex end portions. A semiconductor region adjacent to the channel forming region is eliminated.
US08093584B2 Self-aligned replacement metal gate process for QWFET devices
A self-aligned replacement metal gate QWFET device comprises a III-V quantum well layer formed on a substrate, a III-V barrier layer formed on the quantum well layer, a III-V etch stop layer formed on the III-V barrier layer, a III-V source extension region formed on the III-V etch stop layer and having a first sidewall, a source region formed on the III-V source extension region and having a second sidewall, a III-V drain extension region formed on the III-V etch stop layer and having a third sidewall, a drain region formed on the III-V drain extension region and having a fourth sidewall, a conformal high-k gate dielectric layer formed on the first, second, third, and fourth sidewalls and on a top surface of the etch stop layer, and a metal layer formed on the high-k gate dielectric layer.
US08093582B2 Dual band photodetector
A dual band photodetector for detecting infrared and ultraviolet optical signals is disclosed. Aspects include homojunction and heterojunction detectors comprised of one or more of GaN, AlGaN, and InGaN. In one aspect ultraviolet/infrared dual-band detector is disclosed that is configured to simultaneously detect UV and IR.
US08093577B2 Three-dimensional phase-change memory array
A three-dimensional phase-change memory array. In one embodiment of the invention, the memory array includes a first plurality of diodes, a second plurality of diodes disposed above the first plurality of diodes, a first plurality phase-change memory elements disposed above the first and second plurality of diodes and a second plurality of memory elements disposed above the first plurality of memory elements.
US08093566B2 Upconversion fluorescent nano-structured material and uses thereof
Upconversion fluorescent nano-structured material(s) comprising at least one compound of formula (M1)j(M2)kXn:(M3)q and at least one polymer, wherein: each X is the same or different and is selected from the group consisting of: halogen, O, S, Se, Te, N, P and As; each M1, if present, is the same or different and is selected from the group consisting of: Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs, Fr, Be, Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba, Ra, O and NH4; each M2 is the same or different and is a metal ion; each M3, independently, is the same or different and is selected from the group consisting of Sc, Y, La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Pm, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb and Lu; j is 0≦j≦10; k is 1≦k≦10; n is 1≦n≦10; and q is 1≦q≦10. In particular, the polymer is wherein the polymer soluble in polar solvents.
US08093557B2 Method and apparatus for reviewing defects
A method of inspecting defects of a sample includes a first step for, on a basis of position information of defects on a sample placed on a movable table which is previously detected and obtained by an other inspection system, driving the table so that the defects come into a viewing field of an optical microscope having a focus which is adjusted, a second step for re-detecting the defects to obtain a first detection result, a third step for correcting the position information of defects on a basis of position information of defects re-detected of the first detection result, and a fourth step for reviewing the defects whose position information is corrected to obtain a second detection result. The method includes classifying types of defects on basis of the first detection result and the second detection result.
US08093552B2 Electric field separator device and process
A process and device is provided for the separation of electronegative molecules from non electronegative molecules using electric fields. The molecules are ionized in a non thermal discharge plasma which produces negative and positive ions of the electronegative and non electronegative molecules. The ions are spatially separated by an average DC electric field. A means to filter is disposed in the path of the separated ions and it allows ions to pass through more easily than uncharged molecules. After the ions pass through the filter they are electrically neutralized back to uncharged molecules.
US08093547B2 Projector and light source apparatus having a second reflector for reflecting light in infrared region
A projector includes: a light source unit configured to emit light; a light source heat absorber configured to cause coolant to absorb heat from the light source unit; an ejector pump configured to allow passage of the coolant having absorbed the heat in the light source heat absorber; a radiator configured to radiate the heat of the coolant flowed out from the ejector pump; an evaporator configured to cool the coolant stored in the evaporator by evaporating the coolant; and a heat source other than the light source unit, wherein the ejector pump decompress the interior of the evaporator by a pressure drop due to the passage of the coolant having absorbed the heat in the light source heat absorber, and heat from the heat sources other than the light source unit is absorbed by the coolant cooled by the evaporator.
US08093544B2 Passenger detecting apparatus
A passenger detecting apparatus including a sensor unit of a small size heightwise which can be manufactured inexpensively includes a light emitting means (21a, . . . , 21h) for emitting light rays in a substantially horizontal direction, a beam forming means (22a, 22b) for transforming light rays emitted from the light emitting means into a collimated or converged light beam in a substantially horizontal direction, a downward reflecting means (23a, 23b) for reflecting the light beam in a direction toward a lower seat disposed in the compartment, and a light receiving means (24a, 24b) for receiving the light beams scattered upon striking on the passenger for thereby detecting the state of the passenger.
US08093539B2 Integrated reference source and target designator system for high-precision guidance of guided munitions
A method for guidance of a moving object towards a target. The method including: providing reference signals from RF reference sources to illuminate RF sensors on the moving object; positioning the RF reference sources to form a reference coordinate system; determining position information designating a position of the target in the reference coordinate system by a forward observer; fixing at least one of the RF reference sources at the forward observer in the reference coordinate system; determining a position and orientation of the moving object in the reference coordinate system on board the moving object based on signals received at the RF sensors from the RF reference sources and based on the positions of the RF reference sources; and guiding the moving object to the target at least based on the determined position and orientation of the moving object and the determined position information of the designated target.
US08093528B2 Method and device for electrical discharge machining
A method for electrical discharge machining a workpiece includes dividing machining time into a sensing interval during which reference values are captured from machining pulses and into a machining interval during which no reference values are captured. The sensing interval includes either a first sensing interval after implementation of a jump motion of the electrode in the working gap or a second sensing interval after application of an extended pause time to at least some of the machining pulses. The extended pause time is longer than a pause time of other ones of the machining pulses. The method also includes sensing an electrical parameter of a current machining pulse and deriving at least one characteristic value from the sensed electrical parameter. The method further includes comparing characteristic value to at least one of the captured reference values and initiating an action depending on a result of the comparison.
US08093527B2 Device and method for high frequency electrical discharge machining
The invention relates to a device and a method for electrical discharge machining of a work piece by means of a working electrode. A sequence of working pulses is applied on the work gap between the working electrode and the work piece. The working pulses comprise eroding pulses for eroding material off the work piece and measuring pulses during which an ignition voltage is applied on the work gap in order to initiate a discharge within the work gap and to measure the corresponding, ignition delay time. The ignition voltage and/or the gap width are adjusted such that the ignition delay time is smaller than an oscillation time of the working electrode oscillating within the work gap due to the electrostatic attraction force and the mechanical restoring force.
US08093521B2 Button assembly
A button assembly includes a button, an indicating lamp, a rheostat and a switch. The button includes a transparent pressing portion. The indicating lamp is positioned in the pressing portion. The rheostat includes a base and an adjuster rotatably attached to the base. The adjuster is rotated by rotation of the button. The switch is capable of being triggered by downwardly movement of the button.
US08093514B2 Mixing-weighing combination weigher using an all-kind combination process
A mixing-weighing combination weigher of the present invention comprises a plurality of kind-based groups (G1-G8) each of which is made up of a plurality of combination hoppers (4, 5) fed with objects to be weighed, the kind-based groups being fed with different kinds of objects to be weighed; and a control means (11); and the control means (11) is configured to carry out a process in which combination calculation is performed to find combination weight values for each of the kind-based groups, and combination weight values of a selection number predetermined for each kind are selected from the combination weight values based on a predetermined kind-based combination selection condition; a process in which combination calculation is performed in such a manner that one combination weight value is selected for each kind from the combination weight values selected in this process and selected combination weight values are combined to find one all-kind combination total value within an allowable range; and a discharge process for discharging the objects to be weighed from the combination hoppers (4, 5) corresponding to that all-kind combination total value.
US08093505B2 Layered electronic circuit device
Provided is a layered electronic circuit device capable of realizing high-density/high-function mounting, easily inspecting and repairing the respective constituent elements, and improving the electronic connection characteristic. The layered electronic circuit device includes a first circuit substrate (101) and a second circuit substrate (102) which are arranged in parallel such that their substrate surfaces are opposed to each other. The peripheral portion of the first circuit substrate (101) and the peripheral portion of the second circuit substrate (102) are connected to each other by connection members (10a to 10d) having a wiring member (103) and a thermal hardening anisotropic conductive sheet (107), thereby performing electric connection.
US08093503B2 Multilayer wiring board
A coreless wiring board has no core board but a laminated structure in which a conductor layer and resin insulating layers are alternately laminated into a multilayer. Each of the resin insulating layers is formed to contain a glass cloth in an epoxy resin. A plurality of via holes taking a shape of an inverse truncated cone and having steps on internal wall surfaces is formed to penetrate each of the resin insulating layers, and a filled via conductor for electrically connecting the conductors is formed in each of the via holes.
US08093500B2 Microwave cable cooling
A cable cooling apparatus, for dissipating heat generated by a cable, includes a housing disposed on a portion of a cable and defining a fluid-tight cavity therewithin. The housing is configured to cool at least a portion of the cable. The housing also includes one or more inlets, configured to receive fluid in the housing, and one or more outlets in fluid communication with an inlet for discharging the fluid from the housing. The fluid enters the housing through an inlet, circulates through a portion of the housing and absorbs thermal energy from a portion of the cable.
US08093495B2 Insulated electrical box
An electrical box is disclosed, wherein the electrical box includes a back panel and an insulating material disposed thereon. The insulating material reduces the heat transfer through the back panel of the electrical box.
US08093494B2 Methods of making functionalized nanorods
A process for forming functionalized nanorods. The process includes providing a substrate, modifying the substrate by depositing a self-assembled monolayer of a bi-functional molecule on the substrate, wherein the monolayer is chosen such that one side of the bi-functional molecule binds to the substrate surface and the other side shows an independent affinity for binding to a nanocrystal surface, so as to form a modified substrate. The process further includes contacting the modified substrate with a solution containing nanocrystal colloids, forming a bound monolayer of nanocrystals on the substrate surface, depositing a polymer layer over the monolayer of nanocrystals to partially cover the monolayer of nanocrystals, so as to leave a layer of exposed nanocrystals, functionalizing the exposed nanocrystals, to form functionalized nanocrystals, and then releasing the functionalized nanocrystals from the substrate.
US08093493B2 Volume compensation within a photovoltaic device
A photovoltaic device having (i) an outer transparent casing, (ii) a substrate, the substrate and the outer transparent casing defining an inner volume, (iii) at least one solar cell on the substrate, (iv) a filler layer sealing the at least one solar cell and (v) a container within the inner volume is provided. The container decreases in volume when the filler layer expands, and increases in volume when the filler layer contracts. In some instances, the container is sealed and has a plurality of ridges. In some instances, the container has an opening that is sealed by a spring loaded seal. In some instances, the container has a first opening and a second opening, where the first opening is sealed by a first spring loaded seal and the second opening is sealed by a second spring loaded seal. In some instances, the container has an elongated asteroid shape.
US08093492B2 Solar cell receiver for concentrated photovoltaic system for III-V semiconductor solar cell
A solar cell module comprises an array of lenses, corresponding secondary optical elements and corresponding solar cell receivers. The solar cell receiver includes a solar cell having one or more III-V compound semiconductor layers, a diode coupled in parallel with the solar cell and connector for coupling to other solar cell receivers. The module includes a housing that supports the lenses such that each lens concentrates solar energy onto its respective solar cell.
US08093491B2 Lead free solar cell contacts
Formulations and methods of making solar cells are disclosed. In general, the invention presents a solar cell contact made from a mixture wherein the mixture comprises a solids portion and an organics portion, wherein the solids portion comprises from about 85 to about 99 wt % of a metal component, and from about 1 to about 15 wt % of a lead-free glass component. Both front contacts and back contacts are disclosed.
US08093489B2 Photovoltaic devices fabricated from nanostructured template
Photovoltaic devices, such as solar cells, and methods for their manufacture are disclosed. A device may be characterized by an architecture having a nanostructured template made from an n-type first charge transfer material with template elements between about 1 nm and about 500 nm in diameter with about 1012 to 1016 elements/m2. A p-type second charge-transfer material optionally coats the walls of the template elements leaving behind additional space. A p-type third charge-transfer material fills the additional space volumetrically interdigitating with the second charge transfer material.
US08093486B2 Touch screen guitar
A synthetic guitar includes a body, a neck extending from the body, and at least one touch sensor at the neck for indicating finger position of a user. The body has a receptacle for removably securing a tablet computer to the body. The tablet computer has a touch screen for indicating finger position of the user. A processor of the tablet computer is programmed to receive input signals from the touch sensor and the touch screen and to produce an output signal based at least partially on the input signals. The software can enable the synthetic guitar to be used as a music synthesizer or to be used as a video game controller. The synthetic guitar can also include a retainer for removably securing a portable media player to be used as an additional video display while playing the guitar.
US08093484B2 Methods, systems and computer program products for regenerating audio performances
Methods for generating a new recording of a past musical performance of a musician from a recording of the past musical performance include obtaining a high-resolution data record representing actions of the musician while playing the past musical performance that is generated based on the recording of the past musical performance and positioning an automated musical instrument in a selected acoustic context and a sound detection device at a selected sound detection location in the selected acoustic context. The high-resolution data record is provided to the musical instrument to cause the musical instrument to re-produce the actions of the musician while playing the past performance. Sound waves generated by the musical instrument are recorded while the actions of the musician are being re-produced to generate the new recording of the past musical performance.
US08093481B2 Systems and methods for automatic collision avoidance, grouping and alignment of musical symbols
Systems and methods for editing a computer-base musical score include detecting a collision between objects placed in the score and automatically moving one of the colliding objects out of the way to eliminate the collision. Selection of the object to be moved is based on a comparison of the priority levels of the colliding objects. To enhance clarity and legibility of the score, objects are organized into groups of similar type objects. Groups are treated as a single object for the purposes of avoiding collisions. Certain object types are transformed, including scaled, rotated, or sheared, to avoid collisions.
US08093479B2 Percussion instrument carrier system
A percussion instrument carrier system for carrying percussion instruments by members of a marching band. A preferred embodiment of the percussion instrument carrier system includes an interlock mechanism that provides for one of either mounting the percussion instrument onto the percussion instrument carrier or dismounting the percussion instrument from the percussion instrument carrier by only the manipulation of the percussion instrument in relation to the percussion instrument carrier as needed to respectively and operatively engage or disengage components of the interlock mounting system.
US08093476B2 Capo tasto
Capo tasto for fixing on a neck of a stringed musical instrument, comprising a first arm on which a string engaging region is arranged, a second arm on which a engaging region for a neck rear side is arranged, a slide bearing for holding the first arm for displacement on the second arm, the slide bearing having a displacement guide which is formed by at least one slot or at least one groove with an opening direction transverse to a displacement direction, at least one first contacting surface which is formed on the first arm, and at least one second contacting surface which is formed on the second arm, a movability apart of the first arm and the second arm, which increases the spacing between the string engaging region and the neck rear side engaging region being lockable by contact of the at least one first contacting surface and the at least one second contacting surface, and the opening direction being oriented at least approximately parallel to the first contacting surface and at least approximately parallel to the second contacting surface.
US08093473B1 Maize variety PHGC2
A novel maize variety designated PHGC2 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PHGC2 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PHGC2 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PHGC2 or a trait conversion of PHGC2 with another maize variety. Inbred maize varieties derived from maize variety PHGC2, methods for producing other inbred maize varieties derived from maize variety PHGC2 and the inbred maize varieties and their parts derived by the use of those methods.
US08093471B2 Celery variety stix (PYC 6651)
A new variety of celery designated as STIX (PYC 6651) and whose seed has an ATCC accession number PTA-9654 is presented. STIX has long petioles that make it well suited for making celery sticks.
US08093469B2 Soybean cultivar 97032301
A soybean cultivar designated 97032301 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar 97032301, to the plants of soybean 97032301, to plant parts of soybean cultivar 97032301, and to methods for producing a soybean plant produced by crossing soybean cultivar 97032301 with itself or with another soybean variety. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. This invention also relates to soybean cultivars, or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean variety 97032301, to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 97032301, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing the cultivar 97032301 with another soybean cultivar.
US08093460B1 Soybean cultivar 05RM304030
The present invention is in the field of soybean cultivar 05RM304030 breeding and development. The present invention particularly relates to the soybean cultivar 05RM304030 and its progeny, and methods of making 05RM304030.
US08093454B2 Transgene assay using stable agrobacterium rhizogenes transformation
A novel method is described for the screening of gene elements of interest using hairy roots of chimeric plants transformed with Agrobacterium rhizogenes.
US08093453B2 Corn event 3272 and methods of detection thereof
A novel transgenic corn event designated 3272, is disclosed. The invention relates to DNA sequences of the recombinant constructs inserted into the corn genome that resulted in the 3272 event and of genomic sequences flanking the insertion sites as well as to assays for detecting the presence of the 3272 event based on these novel sequences. The invention further relates to seeds of corn plants comprising the 3272 genotype, to corn plants comprising the genotype of 3272 and to methods for producing a corn plant by crossing a corn plant comprising the 3272 genotype with itself or another corn variety.
US08093450B2 Non-aggregating fluorescent proteins and methods for using the same
Nucleic acid compositions encoding non-aggregating chromo/fluoroproteins and mutants thereof, as well as the proteins encoded by the same, are provided. The proteins of interest are polypeptides that are non-aggregating colored and/or fluorescent proteins, where the non-aggregating feature arises from the modulation of residues in the N-terminus of the protein and the chromo and/or fluorescent feature arises from the interaction of two or more residues of the protein. Also provided are fragments of the subject nucleic acids and the peptides encoded thereby, as well as antibodies to the subject proteins and transgenic cells and organisms. The subject protein and nucleic acid compositions find use in a variety of different applications. Finally, kits for use in such applications, e.g., that include the subject nucleic acid compositions, are provided.
US08093445B2 Wound dressing and method for manufacturing the same
A wound dressing defines bodyside and backside surfaces. The dressing comprises a backing layer defining a center portion and a border portion surrounding the center portion. An absorbent core is connected to a surface of the backing layer within the center portion The absorbent core may be exposed along a bodyside surface of the wound dressing, or various adhesives and non-adhesive substrates may be applied along a surface of the absorbent core so as to define part of the bodyside surface of the wound dressing.
US08093441B2 Removal of light fluoroalkanes from hydrocarbon streams
The removal of fluoroalkanes from fluoroalkane-containing hydrocarbon streams, preferably C3 to C5 hydrocarbon streams. The fluoroalkane-containing hydrocarbon stream is contacted with an adsorbent containing a strong acid function, preferably a silica gel or a strong cation ion-exchange resin having sulfonic acid functionality.
US08093440B2 Process and apparatus for C2 recovery
An improved process for separating a hydrocarbon bearing feed gas containing methane and lighter, C2 (ethylene and/or ethane), and heavier components into a fraction containing predominantly methane and lighter components and a fraction containing predominantly C2 and heavier hydrocarbon components including the steps of cooling and partially condensing and delivering the feed stream to a separator to provide a first residue vapor and a first liquid containing C2, directing a first part of the first liquid containing C2 into a heavy-ends fractionation column wherein the liquid is separated into a second hydrocarbon bearing vapor residue and a second liquid product containing C2; further cooling the second part of the first liquid containing C2 and partially condensing the second hydrocarbon bearing vapor residue; combining the cooled second part of the first liquid and partially condensed second hydrocarbon-bearing vapor residue and directing them to a second separator effecting a third residue and a third liquid; cooling and directing a first part of the third liquid into the lights-ends fractionation column, to thereby condense C2's and heavier components while the methane is evaporated in the light-ends fractionation column to thereby obtain fourth residue vapor and liquid, heating and supplying the fourth liquid recovered from the light-ends fractionation column to the heavy-ends fractionation column as a feed thereto; conducting the second part of the third liquid to the heavy-ends fractionation column as a feed thereto.
US08093437B2 Industrial process for production of diol
The invention provides an apparatus and process for producing a diol by taking a cyclic carbonate and an aliphatic monohydric alcohol as starting materials, continuously feeding the starting materials into column A, carrying out reactive distillation in column A, continuously withdrawing a low boiling point reaction mixture containing a produced dialkyl carbonate and the aliphatic monohydric alcohol from an upper portion of column A, continuously withdrawing a high boiling point reaction mixture containing a produced diol from a lower portion of column A, continuously feeding the high boiling point reaction mixture into distillation column C, distilling off material having a lower boiling point than that of the diol contained in the high boiling point reaction mixture as a column top component and a side cut component so as to obtain a column bottom component, continuously feeding the column bottom component into column C, and obtaining the diol.
US08093434B2 Crystal polymorph of fluorene derivative and production method thereof
A method of producing a crystal polymorph of 9,9-bis(4-(2-hydroxyethoxy)phenyl)fluorene, comprising the steps of reacting fluorenone and 2-phenoxyethanol in the presence of a heteropolyacid, initiating deposition of 9,9-bis(4-(2-hydroxyethoxy)phenyl)fluorene at lower than 50° C. from the resultant mixture to obtain a crude product of 9,9-bis(4-(2-hydroxyethoxy)phenyl)fluorene, dissolving the crude product in at least one solvent selected from the group consisting of aromatic hydrocarbon solvents, ketone solvents and ester solvents, and initiating deposition of 9,9-bis(4-(2-hydroxyethoxy)phenyl)fluorene at 50° C. or higher.
US08093429B2 Fluoroamine having perfluoroalkyl group, process for producing the same, method of fluorination therewith, and method of recovering amide having perfluoroalkyl group
Provided are a fluorous-tag-introduced fluoroamine of a general formula (I), its production method, a method of fluorination of a substrate having functional group containing oxygen with the fluoroamine serving as a fluorinating agent, and a method of recovering a fluorous-tag-introduced amide after the fluorination. The fluoroamine and its production method, as well as the fluorination method with the fluoroamine and the method of recovery of a fluorous-tag-introduced amide are ecological and advantageous in industrial use, as the load for separating and collecting the product after the fluorination with the fluoroamine serving as a fluorinating agent is small. (In the formula, R0 is an alkyl group or an aryl group having substituent(s) of Rf—(CH2)m—; Rf is a perfluoroalkyl group; m is from 0 to 2; R1 and R2 each are an alkyl group or an aryl group.)
US08093426B2 Intermediate compounds and their use in preparation of lacosamide
The present invention is concerned with novel compounds and their use for the preparation of lacosamide. The present invention also contemplates processes for the preparation of lacosamide employing the novel compound of general Formula II, Formula IIa or Formula IIb as intermediate. Wherein R1 is —OH or —OMe; R2 is —OH or —NH—CH2—C6H5.
US08093423B2 Pharmaceutical-grade ferric organic compounds, uses thereof and method of making same
The present invention discloses a pharmaceutical-grade ferric organic compounds, including ferric citrate, which are soluble over a wider range of pH, and which have a large active surface area. A manufacturing and quality control process for making a pharmaceutical-grade ferric citrate that consistently complies with the established Manufacture Release Specification is also disclosed. The pharmaceutical-grade ferric organic compounds are suitable for treating disorders characterized by elevated serum phosphate levels.
US08093421B2 Stereoselective one step fluorination process for the preparation of 2-flouropropionate
The current invention describes a one-step process for the synthesis of 2-fluoropropionates from lactic acid ester derivatives using TFEDMA.
US08093420B2 Functionalized amino acids and absorbable polymers therefrom
The present invention relates to compounds of formula I and II, which are functionalized amino acids, and polymers formed from the same. Polymers formed from the functionalized amino acids are expected to have controllable degradation profiles, enabling them to release an active component over a desired time range. The polymers are also expected to be useful in a variety of medical applications.
US08093417B2 Lipoxin analogs and methods for the treatment of periodontal disease
This invention provides new lipoxin analogs, compositions containing analogs, and methods of using these compounds and compositions for treating and preventing oral inflammation, including gingivitis, periodontitis, and other forms of periodontal disease. The invention also provides for methods of treating and preventing oral inflammation, including gingivitis, periodontitis, and other forms of periodontal disease with compositions containing COX-2 inhibitors. Further, the invention provides methods for preventing systemic diseases beyond theoral cavity that are related to periodontal disease using the composition containing lipoxin analogs, COX-2 inhibitors, or both.
US08093411B2 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.
US08093410B2 Intermediates and methods for the synthesis of halichondrin B analogs
Methods of synthesizing intermediates useful for the synthesis of halichondrin B analogs are described.
US08093406B2 Cyclic sulfones with aminobenzyl substitution useful as BACE inhibitors
The invention relates to novel heterocyclic compounds of the formula in which all of the variables are as defined in the specification, in free form or in salt form, to their preparation, to their use as medicaments and to medicaments comprising them.
US08093405B2 Formation of 18F and 19F fluoroarenes bearing reactive functionalities
An iodonium compound of formula (I): where RAR1 is a C5-6 aryl group, bearing at least one substituent selected from formyl, thionoacyl, acylamidocarboxy, thionoester, azo, C2-20 alkenyl, C2-20 alkynyl, and (CH2)nRC, where RC is selected from ether, amino, azo and thioether; RAR2 is a C5-10 aryl group, optionally substituted by one or more groups selected from C1-12 alkyl, C5-12 aryl, C3-12 heterocyclyl, ether, thioether, nitro, cyano and halo, and may be linked to a solid support or fluorous tag; and X is a counteranion.
US08093401B2 Sirtuin modulating compounds
Provided herein are novel sirtuin-modulating compounds and methods of use thereof. The sirtuin-modulating compounds may be used for increasing the lifespan of a cell, and treating and/or preventing a wide variety of diseases and disorders including, for example, diseases or disorders related to aging or stress, diabetes, obesity, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular disease, blood clotting disorders, inflammation, cancer, and/or flushing as well as diseases or disorders that would benefit from increased mitochondrial activity. Also provided are compositions comprising a sirtuin-modulating compound in combination with another therapeutic agent.
US08093391B2 Process for the preparation of substantially pure palonosetron and its acid salts
This invention relates to an improved and scalable process for the preparation of substantially pure palonosetron and its acid addition salts, in particular hydrochloride (I) which comprises of, (a) converting intermediate (IIa) as such or as its freebase (II) to a crude mixture of diastereomeric palonosetrons (VIII) or (VIIIa) contaminated with varying amounts of unconverted intermediate (II) or (IIa) via hydrogenation under pressure with an appropriately chosen hydrogenation catalyst in an suitable organic solvent. (b) making the resulting crude mixture of diastereomeric palonosetrons (VIII) or (VIIIa) contaminated with varying amounts of unconverted intermediate (II) or (IIa) substantially free from (II) or (IIa) via halogenation reaction. (c) Finally, converting the resulting diastereomeric palonosetron (VIII) or its hydrochloride (VIIIa) substantially free from intermediate (II) or (IIa) to the desired palonosetron hydrochloride (I) in substantially pure form via selective crystallization from a suitable single or mixture of organic solvents.
US08093382B2 Dipeptidyl peptidase inhibitors
Compounds, pharmaceuticals, kits and methods are provided for use with DPP-IV and other S9 proteases that comprise a member selected from the group consisting of: wherein E is CH or N, Q is selected from the group consisting of CO, CS, SO, SO2, or C═NR4, and L, X, Z, R2 and R3 are as defined herein.
US08093378B2 Crystallization method for intermediates of carbapenem antibiotics
An improved crystallization method for an azetidinone compound represented by the formula 1: , which is extremely useful as a common intermediate for the synthesis of 1β-methylcarbapenem compounds. The present method provides crystals having higher quality and stability than conventional crystals and excellent filterability at the time of recovery; and an azetidinone compound having a low content of impurity, and which has a controlled particle size distribution of crystals and improved handleability and stability. The crystallization is carried out by adding a hydrocarbon solvent to a solution in which an azetidinone compound extremely useful as a common intermediate for the synthesis of 1β-methylcarbapenem compounds is dissolved in the presence of a seed crystal in an amount of 200% by weight or less based on the weight of the azetidinone compound.
US08093376B2 Method for preparation of high enzymatic resistance hydroxyalkylcellulose derivatives
The present invention relates to a process of preparing hydroxyalkyl cellulose derivatives having improved enzymatic resistance. In particular, the present invention relates to a process of preparing hydroxyalkyl cellulose derivatives by reacting cellulose and ethylene oxide in the presence of alkali metal hydroxide, wherein the reaction between cellulose and ethylene oxide is performed in the presence of isopropyl alcohol azeotropic solvent in a horizontally agitated reactor, wherein the ethylene oxide is supplied via two steps, thus resulting in a two-step reaction, and the amount of alkali metal hydroxide remaining after the first reaction is controlled, thereby enabling to provide hydroxyalkyl cellulose derivatives having improved enzymatic resistance and turbidity and to remarkably decrease the solvent usage to have economical and environmental advantages.
US08093375B2 Reactive polysaccharide derivatives, their preparation and their use
A reactive polysaccharide derivative of formula, [Z1—B—SO2—CH2—CH2—O]n—PS—[OH]m (1), wherein 8 is a radical of formula (2a), (2b), (2c), (2d) or (2e), Z, is a reactive radical, and PS is a cyclodextrin, is useful as a finishing agent for textile fibers and for other applications.
US08093363B2 Tumor necrosis factor-gamma
Human TNF-gamma-alpha and TNF-gamma-beta polypeptides and DNA (RNA) encoding such polypeptides and a procedure for producing such polypeptides by recombinant techniques are disclosed. Also disclosed are methods for utilizing such polypeptides to inhibit cellular growth, for example in a tumor or cancer, for facilitating wound-healing, to provide resistance against infection, induce inflammatory activities, and stimulating the growth of certain cell types to treat diseases, for example restenosis. Also disclosed are diagnostic methods for detecting a mutation in the TNF-gamma-alpha and TNF-gamma-beta nucleic acid sequences or overexpression of the TNF-gamma-alpha and/or TNF-gamma-beta polypeptides. Antagonists against such polypeptides and their use as a therapeutic to treat cachexia, septic shock, cerebral malaria, inflammation, arthritis and graft-rejection are also disclosed.
US08093359B2 Optimized Fc variants and methods for their generation
The present invention relates to optimized Fc variants, methods for their generation, and antibodies and Fc fusions comprising optimized Fc variants.
US08093328B2 Polymer thick film encapsulant and enhanced stability PTC carbon system
The invention is directed to a polymer thick film encapsulant composition comprising thermoplastic fluoropolymer resin and acrylic resin dissolved in organic solvents. The deposited encapsulant composition is processed at a time and energy sufficient to remove all solvent and form an encapsulant. The invention is further directed to using the encapsulant composition to form an encapsulant in PTC heater circuitry and, in particular, in PTC heater circuitry in mirror heater and seat heater applications.
US08093324B2 Soy-based rubber composition and methods of manufacture and use
In at least one embodiment, a composition includes a thermoplastic resin and a softened rubber. The rubber ranges from 5 wt. % to 75 wt. % of the resin. The softened synthetic rubber comprises a rubber, a paraffinic oil, and a fatty-acid-containing material. The paraffinic oil ranges from 15 wt. % to 40 wt. % of the rubber. The fatty-acid-containing material ranges from 5 wt. % to 16 wt. % of the weight of the rubber.
US08093323B2 Method for manufacturing a bis(silatranylalkyl) polysulfide, method for manufacturing a mixture of bis(silatranylalkyl) polysulfide etc., a mixture of bis(silatranylalkyl) polysulfide etc., and rubber composition
A method for manufacturing a bis(silatranylalkyl) polysulfide by heating a bis(trialkoxysilylalkyl) polysulfide and triethanolamine in the presence of a catalytic quantity of an alkali-metal alcoholate, thus substituting all Si-bonded alkoxy groups of the bis(trialkoxysilylalkyl) polysulfide with a (OCH2CH2)3N group; a method for the preparation of a mixture of a bis(silatranylalkyl) polysulfide and a (silatranyalkyl)(trialkoxysilyl) disulfide or a mixture of a bis(silatranylalkyl) polysulfide, a (silatranylalkyl)(trialkoxysilyl) disulfide, and a bis(trialkoxysilylalkyl) polysulfide by heating a bis(trialkoxysilylalkyl) polysulfide and triethanolamine in the presence of a catalytic quantity of an alkali-metal alcoholate, thus substituting a part of Si-bonded alkoxy groups of the bis(trialkoxysilylalkyl) polysulfide with a (OCH2CH2)3N group; a mixture of a bis(silatranylalkyl) polysulfide and a (silatranylalkyl)(trialkoxysilyl) disulfide; a mixture of a bis(silatranylalkyl) polysulfide, a (silatranylalkyl)(trialkoxysilyl) disulfide, and a bis(trialkoxysilylalkyl) polysulfide; and a rubber composition containing the aforementioned mixture.
US08093317B2 Antistatic thermoplastic resin composition and molded article composed thereof
An antistatic thermoplastic resin composition includes 0.01 to 20 parts by weight of an organic ion conductive agent mixed with 100 parts by weight of a thermoplastic resin composition consisting of 97 to 55 parts by weight of a styrene-based resin and 3 to 45 parts by weight of a copolymer containing alkylene oxide units as a component, and a molded article composed thereof. The antistatic thermoplastic resin composition is low in surface resistivity value, stable in sustained antistatic properly and excellent in moldability, surface appearance and mechanical properties, and can be suitably used as molded articles such as electric and electronic parts, carrier parts for electric and electronic parts, carrier parts for display related parts, etc.
US08093308B2 Styrenic polymer compositions and methods of making and using same
A method comprising contacting a first styrenic polymer composition comprising residual styrene monomer with a molecular sieve, and recovering a second styrenic polymer composition comprising a reduced amount of residual styrene monomer. A composition comprising a styrenic polymer having a residual styrene monomer amount of less than 100 ppm produced by contacting a styrenic polymer composition having a residual styrene monomer amount of equal to or greater than 100 ppm with a molecular sieve, and recovering the styrenic polymer having a residual styrene monomer amount of less than 100 ppm. A method comprising providing a styrenic polymer composition having a residual styrene monomer amount of equal to or greater than 100 ppm, contacting the styrenic polymer composition with a molecular sieve, adding a nucleating agent, a foaming agent, and a coloring agent to the styrenic polymer composition, and forming an expanded styrenic polymer composition having a residual styrene monomer amount of less than 100 ppm.
US08093306B2 Integrated biorefinery for production of liquid fuels
A method and system for reforming a carbonaceous feedstock comprising the steps, reforming the feedstock produce a first synthesis gas, subjecting a portion of the first synthesis gas to catalytic conversion, separating from the synthesis gas conversion product at least one byproduct, and utilizing at least a portion of the at least one byproduct during reforming of additional carbonaceous material. In certain instances, the method and system may be used to produce a liquid fuel.
US08093303B2 Process for dewatering a mineral slurry concentrate and increasing the production of a filter cake
The present invention provides a process for dewatering a mineral slurry concentrate and increasing the production of the resulting filter cake consisting essentially of mixing an aqueous mineral slurry concentrate with an effective amount of a nonionic surfactant and an effective amount of a cationic polymer to form a nonionic surfactant and cationic polymer treated aqueous mineral slurry concentrate, and subjecting the treated aqueous mineral slurry concentrate to a liquid water removal process for dewatering the treated aqueous mineral slurry and for increasing the production of a resulting filter cake of the dewatered mineral slurry. An improved mineral slurry concentrate composition and an improved mineral concentrate filter cake is also disclosed.
US08093300B2 Compositions and methods for increasing compliance with therapies using aldehyde dehydrogenase inhibitors and treating alcoholism
Compositions and methods for treating, preventing, or reducing alcoholism, in particular methods for increasing patient compliance with therapies that require the intake of an ALDH inhibitor comprising the step of administering a monoamine oxidase B inhibitor.
US08093296B2 Methods for concomitant administration of colchicine and macrolide antibiotics
Methods for concomitant administration of colchicine together with one or more macrolide antibiotics, e.g., clarithromycin, are disclosed. Such methods reduce the dangers commonly associated with such concomitant administration and provide additional benefits.
US08093293B2 Methods for treating skin conditions
This invention relates to methods and compositions for treating and ameliorating skin conditions including acne, rosacea and wrinkling caused by photodamage or intrinsic aging. More particularly, this invention relates to compositions containing certain natural extracts and natural or synthetic retinoids.
US08093289B2 Oral composition comprising 3-[5-[4-(cyclopentyloxy)-2-hydroxybenzoyl]-2-[(3-hydroxy-1,2-benzisoxazol-6-yl)methoxy]phenyl]propionic acid or salt thereof
An oral composition contains 3-{5-[4-(cyclopentyloxy)-2-hydroxybenzoyl]-2-[(3-hydroxy-1,2-benzisoxazol-6-yl)methoxy]phenyl}propionic acid or a salt thereof and polyvinylpyrrolidone is advantageous as an oral medication composition (1) which can be produced without requiring new manufacturing equipment; (2) which can be produced with simple steps; (3) which maintains stable solubility even with changes in the pH of the gastrointestinal tract and of which gastrointestinal tract absorption is improved.
US08093285B2 Aminopiperidinyl derivatives and uses thereof
This application discloses aminopiperidinyl compounds of generic Formulae I-II: or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein m, r, Q1, Q2, Q3, R, Ra, R1, R2a, R2b, and R3 are defined as described herein, useful for treatment of diseases associated with monoamine reuptake inhibitors. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions, methods of using, and methods of preparing the compounds.
US08093275B2 Oxazolone and pyrrolidinone-substituted pryidine amides as P2X3 and P2X2/3 antagonists
Compounds of the formula I: or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein, X, Y, R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6 and R7 are as defined herein. Also disclosed are methods of using the compounds for treating diseases associated with P2X3 and/or a P2X2/3 receptor antagonists and methods of making the compounds.
US08093272B2 Heteroaryl substituted cyclohexyl-1,4-diamine compounds
Novel cyclohexyl-1,4-diamine compounds corresponding to formula I, processes for the production thereof, pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds, methods of producing pharmaceutical compositions including these compounds and related methods of treating or inhibiting certain diseases or conditions.
US08093266B2 Rho kinase inhibitors
Substituted amide and urea derivatives useful as inhibitors of Rho kinase are described, which inhibitors can be useful in the treatment of various disorders such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, neurological diseases, renal diseases, bronchial asthma, erectile dysfunction and glaucoma.
US08093257B2 [6,5]-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 n2, n3, n4, A, B, D, E, G, J, Y, R1 and R2 are defined herein.
US08093246B2 O-linked pyrimidin-4-amine-based compounds, compositions comprising them, and methods of their use to treat cancer
O-linked pyrimidin-4-amine-based compounds, pharmaceutical compositions comprising them, and methods of their use are described. Particular compounds of the invention are of formula I:
US08093243B2 Hepatitis C virus inhibitors
The present disclosure relates to compounds, compositions and methods for the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Also disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds and methods for using these compounds in the treatment of HCV infection.
US08093229B2 Alkynyl pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidines and related analogs as HSP90-inhibitors
Alkynyl pyrrolo [2,3-d] pyrimidines of Formula I are described and demonstrated to have utility as Heat Shock Protein 90 (HSP90) inhibiting agents used in the treatment and prevention of various HSP90 mediated disorders. Methods of synthesis and use of such compounds are also described and claimed.
US08093225B2 Gene expression and pain
The present invention relates to double-stranded oligonucleotides, pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and use of such double-stranded oligonucleotides and pharmaceutical compositions to modulate nociceptive signaling in a cell or prevent and/or treat pain in a patient.
US08093204B2 Organic compounds
The present invention relates to compounds useful as fragrance ingredients of formula (I) wherein the bond between C-1 and C-2 is a single bond and the dotted line together with the bond between C-2 and C-3 represents a double bond; or the bond between C-2 and C-3 is a single bond and the dotted line together with the bond between C-1 and C-2 represents a double bond.
US08093201B2 Fabric softening compositions comprising polymeric materials
Fabric softening compositions comprising polymeric materials capable of retaining volatile perfume ingredients are disclosed, as well as methods of softening fabrics.
US08093194B2 Environmentally acceptable acidic lavatory treatment compositions
Aqueous, thickened, acidic compositions which exhibit a pH of about 7 or less preferably 5 or less, and comprise an organic acid constituent selected from formic acid, citric acid and oxalic acid, a thickening constituent or constituents based on one or more gums, particularly xanthan gum which form a thickener system in the inventive composition, and at least one detersive surfactant based on glycoside surfactants, water in an amount of at least 85% wt., preferably at least about 90% wt., and one or more further optional constituents, wherein the compositions exclude: (a) surfactant compounds which include a nitrogen atom in the surfactant compound, and (b) inorganic acids.
US08093188B2 Ashless hydraulic fluid or paper machine oil
An ashless lubricating oil, comprising a base oil having a viscosity index greater than 150, wherein the base oil is made from a blend of petroleum-based wax and Fischer-Tropsch derived wax.
US08093186B2 Biopolymeric arrays having replicate elements
A method for designing an array is provided. In certain embodiments, this method includes grouping probes into a plurality of ranked groups of probes; and designing an array comprising the ranked groups of probes, wherein the array contains more replicates of probes in a higher ranked group as compared to probes of a lower ranked group of probes.
US08093185B2 Enhancement of plant growth
Treatment with N-(2-phenylethyl)succinamic acid or its salts protects against inhibition of growth by a neonicotinoid compound applied as a seed treatment or applied directly on or near the root zone of the seedling.
US08093183B2 Methods for using polyol esters to control pests
Methods are disclosed for killing or knocking down pests selected from the group consisting of cockroaches, ants, bristletails, wasps, hornets, crickets, earwigs, centipedes, scorpions, sowbugs, pillbugs, and spiders. One sprays the pest directly with a solution that is at least 2.8% ester of a polyol (such as sucrose octanoate or sorbitol octanoate). The formulation is designed for use in kitchens, pantries and other areas of the home in which food items may be present. Spray bottle assemblies are also disclosed for delivering the material to the target pest in a desirable manner.
US08093178B2 Catalyst for reducing carbon monoxide concentration
Disclosed in a catalyst which enables to reduce the carbon monoxide concentration in a product gas to 5 ppm by volume or less when carbon monoxide in a raw material gas containing hydrogen and carbon monoxide is selectively oxidized. The catalyst comprises a support of an inorganic oxide and ruthenium loaded thereon, and the relative loading depth X(Ru) of ruthenium in the radial direction in a redial cross-section of the catalyst satisfies the requirement defined by the following formula (1) X(Ru)≧15  (1).
US08093175B2 Mineral composition capable of trapping hydrogen, preparation method and uses
The invention relates to a composition capable of trapping hydrogen comprising: (a) at least one mineral compound of formula (I) below: MX(OH)  (I) in which: M represents a divalent transition element; O represents an oxygen atom; X represents an atom chosen from S, Se, Te, Po; and H represents a hydrogen atom; and (b) at least one nitrate salt of formula (II) below: ZNO3  (II) in which Z is a monovalent cation. Use of these compositions either in pulverulent form for trapping gaseous hydrogen by direct interaction, or in the form of an adjuvant in a containment material for, for example, trapping hydrogen released by radiolysis in radioactive waste packages.
US08093170B2 Semiconductor ceramic material
A semiconductor ceramic material which contains no Pb and has a high Curie point, low resistivity, and PTC characteristics is represented by the formula ABO3 wherein A includes Ba, Ca, an alkali metal element, Bi, and a rare-earth element, and B includes Ti. The semiconductor ceramic material contains 5 to 20 molar parts and preferably 12.5 to 17.5 molar parts of Ca per 100 molar parts of Ti. The ratio of the content of the alkali metal element to the sum of the content of the bismuth plus the content of the rare earth element, is preferably from 1.00 to 1.06. The semiconductor ceramic material preferably further contains 0.01 to 0.2 molar parts of Mn per 100 molar parts of Ti.
US08093167B2 Glass composition and substrate
For providing glasses and glass-ceramics having properties suitable for use as a substrate of an information storage medium of next generation such as one for the perpendicular magnetic recording system without employing arsenic and antimony components which adversely affect human beings and the environment, there are provided glass-ceramics comprising SiO2, Li2O and Al2O3 on oxide basis, comprising lithium disilicate as a crystal phase, and comprising one or more elements selected from the group consisting of Sn, Ce, Mn, W, Ta, Bi, Nb, S, Cl and F.
US08093166B2 Bioactive glass compositions
A bioactive glass composition, a method and an implant. The glass composition comprising SiO2, Na2O, K2O, CaO, and P2O5, having the following composition: SiO2 48-52 wt-%, Na2O 9-15 wt-%, K2O 12-18 wt-%, CaO 10-16 wt-%, P2O5 1-7 wt-%, TiO2 0.2-2 wt-%, B2O3 0-4 wt-%, and MgO 0-6 wt-%, wherein Na2O+K2O>25 wt-%, MgO+CaO>14 wt-%, and B2O3/P2O5>0.3.
US08093162B2 Non-woven material comprising polymer fibers using mixtures with amphiphilic block copolymers as well as their production and use
The present invention relates to the production of a non-woven material having high extensibility and comprising polymer fibers using mixtures with amphiphilic block copolymers as compatibilizers for preparing blends, as well as their production and use.
US08093156B2 Method for manufacturing semiconductor device
To provide a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device, which the method is capable of efficient mass production of high-performance semiconductor devices by, upon manufacture of a semiconductor device, eliminating unwanted features (e.g., side lobes) created together with a resist pattern by thickening the resist pattern, to reduce the burden in designing photomasks and to increase depth of focus. The method of the present invention for manufacturing a semiconductor device includes at least: forming a resist pattern on a work surface and applying over a surface of the resist pattern a resist pattern thickening material to thereby thicken the resist pattern to eliminate an unwanted feature created together with the resist pattern.
US08093150B2 Methods of manufacturing semiconductor devices and structures thereof
Methods of manufacturing semiconductor devices are disclosed. A preferred embodiment comprises a method of manufacturing a semiconductor device, the method including providing a workpiece, disposing an etch stop layer over the workpiece, and disposing a material layer over the etch stop layer. The material layer includes a transition layer. The method includes patterning the material layer partially with a first pattern, and patterning the material layer partially with a second pattern. Patterning the material layer partially with the second pattern further comprises simultaneously completely patterning the material layer with the first pattern.
US08093140B2 Amorphous Ge/Te deposition process
Germanium, tellurium, and/or antimony precursors are usefully employed to form germanium-, tellurium- and/or antimony-containing films, such as films of GeTe, GST, and thermoelectric germanium-containing films. Processes for using these precursors to form amorphous films are also described. Further described is the use of [{nBuC(iPrN)2}2Ge] or Ge butyl amidinate to form GeTe smooth amorphous films for phase change memory applications.
US08093138B2 Method of fabricating an epitaxially grown layer
A method of forming an epitaxially grown layer by forming a region of weakness in a support substrate to define a support portion and a remainder portion on opposite sides of the region of weakness, epitaxially growing an epitaxially grown layer on the support portion after forming the region of weakness but prior to detachment of the support portion from the remainder portion; bonding the epitaxially grown layer to an acceptor substrate before detaching the remainder portion from the support portion; and detaching the remainder portion from the support portion at the region of weakness. The epitaxially grown layer may be removed from the support portion as a free-standing structure.
US08093137B2 Method of manufacturing semiconductor wafer
A device layer is formed on at least the upper surface of a prime wafer by an epitaxial growth method. Then, a protective film is formed to cover at least the device layer. The lower surface of the prime wafer is ground to have a flat lower surface.
US08093136B2 Method for manufacturing SOI substrate
A single crystal semiconductor substrate and a base substrate are prepared; a first insulating film is formed over the single crystal semiconductor substrate; a separation layer is formed by introducing ions at a predetermined depth through a surface of the single crystal semiconductor substrate; plasma treatment is performed on the base substrate so as to planarize a surface of the base substrate; a second insulating film is formed over the planarized base substrate; a surface of the first insulating film is bonded to a surface of the second insulating film by making the surface of the single crystal semiconductor substrate and the surface of the base substrate face each other; and a single crystal semiconductor film is provided over the base substrate with the second insulating film and the first insulating film interposed therebetween by performing separation at the separation layer.
US08093135B2 Method of manufacturing semiconductor device
To suppress an effect of metal contamination caused in manufacturing an SOI substrate. After forming a damaged region by irradiating a semiconductor substrate with hydrogen ions, the semiconductor substrate is bonded to a base substrate. Heat treatment is performed to cleave the semiconductor substrate; thus an SOI substrate is manufactured. Even if metal ions enter the semiconductor substrate together with the hydrogen ions in the step of hydrogen ion irradiation, the effect of metal contamination can be suppressed by the gettering process. Accordingly, the irradiation with hydrogen ions can be performed positively by an ion doping method.
US08093126B2 Nonvolatile semiconductor memory device, semiconductor device and manufacturing method of nonvolatile semiconductor memory device
A nonvolatile semiconductor memory device includes a gate portion formed by laminating a tunnel insulating film, floating gate electrode, inter-poly insulating film and control gate electrode on a semiconductor substrate, and source and drain regions formed on the substrate. The tunnel insulating film has a three-layered structure having a silicon nitride film sandwiched between silicon oxide films. The silicon nitride film is continuous in an in-plane direction and has 3-coordinate nitrogen bonds and at least one of second neighboring atoms of nitrogen is nitrogen.
US08093125B2 Manufacturing method of capacitor in semiconductor device
Example embodiment is provided to a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device, including forming a hard mask layer on a buried bit line and forming a storage node contact hole by using the selectivity between an interlayer insulating layer and the hard mask layer, thereby forming a contact hole using a mask of a line pattern instead of a hole pattern. Accordingly, a mask for the contact hole can be easily fabricated and the contact area can be maximized, thereby reducing the contact resistance.
US08093119B2 CMOS microelectromechanical system (MEMS) device and fabrication method thereof
A method for fabricating the MEMS device includes providing a substrate. Then, a structural dielectric layer is formed over the substrate at a first side, wherein a diaphragm is embedded in the structural dielectric layer. The substrate is patterned from a second side to form a cavity in corresponding to the diaphragm and a plurality of venting holes in the substrate. An isotropic etching process is performed from the first side and the second side of the substrate via vent holes to remove a dielectric portion of the structural dielectric layer for exposing a central portion of the diaphragm while an end portion is held by a residue portion of the structural dielectric layer.
US08093118B2 Semiconductor structure and method of forming the same
A semiconductor structure and a method of forming the same are provided. The semiconductor structure includes a substrate, a resistor and a metal gate structure. The substrate has a first area and a second area. The resistor is disposed in the first area, wherein the resistor does not include any metal layer. The metal gate structure is disposed in the second area.
US08093113B2 Array substrate for LCD and method of fabrication thereof
A liquid crystal display array substrate. A trench is in a substrate. A gate, a gate dielectric layer, a semiconductor layer and a doped semiconductor layer are disposed in the trench, wherein the semiconductor layer comprises a channel. A source electrode and a drain electrode are respectively electrically connected to portions of the semiconductor layer on opposite sides of the channel.
US08093109B2 Method for forming semiconductor thin film and method for manufacturing electronic device
A method for forming a semiconductor thin film includes the steps of applying an inorganic semiconductor fine particle-dispersion solution on a substrate and drying the coating to form a semiconductor fine particle layer, and immersing the semiconductor fine particle layer in a solution to form a semiconductor thin film.
US08093099B2 Lock and key through-via method for wafer level 3D integration and structures produced
A three dimensional device stack structure comprises two or more active device and interconnect layers further connected together using through substrate vias. Methods of forming the three dimensional device stack structure comprise alignment, bonding by lamination, thinning and post thinning processing. The via features enable the retention of alignment through the lamination process and any subsequent process steps thus achieving a mechanically more robust stack structure compared to the prior art.
US08093097B2 Layer sequence and method of manufacturing a layer sequence
A layer sequence (400), comprising an aluminum layer (300), a nickel layer (301), and a nickel layer protection layer (302; 701). The aluminum layer (300) is formable on a substrate (200), the nickel layer (301) is formed on the aluminum layer (300), and the nickel layer protection layer (302; 701) is formed on the nickel layer (301).
US08093096B2 Method of successive high-resistance buffer layer/window layer (transparent conductive film) formation for CIS based thin-film solar cell and apparatus for successive film formation for practicing the method of successive film formation
A high-resistance buffer layer and a window layer (transparent conductive film) are successively formed by the MOCVD method to obtain the same output characteristics as in conventional film deposition by the solution deposition method and to simplify a film deposition method and apparatus. Thus, the cost of raw materials and the cost of waste treatments are reduced to attain a considerable reduction in production cost.After a metallic base electrode layer 1B and a light absorption layer 1C are formed in this order on a glass substrate 1A, a high-resistance buffer layer 1D and a window layer 1E are successively formed in this order in a multi layer arrangement on the light absorption layer 1C of the resultant semifinished solar cell substrate by the MOCVD method. Consequently, a film deposition method and apparatus are simplified and the cost of raw materials and the cost of waste treatments can be reduced.
US08093092B2 Techniques for glass attachment in an image sensor package
A low-cost wafer-level packaging (WLP) method for attaching glass to optical image-sensor devices on a semiconductor wafer in order to increase the yield of image-sensor modules during later steps of assembly. One embodiment relates to applications with image-sensors (and microlenses) fabricated on a wafer. A glass wafer is singulated, aligned to mirror the die pattern on an image-sensor wafer, and then bonded to the image-sensor wafer such that optical adhesive forms a layer between the each image-sensor and its glass cover. Another embodiment applies cavity walls to singulated glass covers, which are then attached to image sensors which may be formed on a single wafer. The wafer can then be singulated and a plurality of image sensor packages is formed.
US08093076B2 Organic light emitting apparatus and method of producing the same
Provided are an organic light emitting apparatus for use in, for example, a flat device display, and a method of producing the apparatus. The organic light emitting apparatus has sides formed by division at ends of its substrate. Three-dimensional portions are formed on the surface of the substrate along the sides. An inorganic sealing layer is formed to extend toward the three-dimensional portions.
US08093075B2 Semiconductor integrated circuit including a power supply, semiconductor system including a semiconductor integrated circuit, and method of forming a semiconductor integrated circuit
Provided are a semiconductor integrated circuit including a power supply, a semiconductor system including the semiconductor integrated circuit, and a method of forming the semiconductor integrated circuit. The semiconductor integrated circuit includes: a semiconductor substrate on a surface of which a plurality of electrical circuits and a plurality of power pads are mounted; an insulation layer stacked on the semiconductor substrate; a first conductive layer connected to a first power pad by a first via and stacked on the insulation layer; a second conductive layer connected to a second power pad by a second via, stacked on the insulation layer, and separated from the first insulation layer; and a power generation layer stacked on the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer and that generates voltage.
US08093074B2 Analysis method for semiconductor device
An analysis method for a semiconductor device is described. The semiconductor device having an abnormal region is provided. Thereafter, a focused ion beam microscope analysis process is performed to the abnormal region, wherein the result of the focused ion beam microscope analysis process shows that the abnormal region has a defect therein. After the focused ion beam microscope analysis process, an electrical property measurement step is performed to the abnormal region, so as to determine whether the defect in the abnormal region is a device failure root cause or not.
US08093070B2 Method for leakage reduction in fabrication of high-density FRAM arrays
A method is provided for fabricating a ferroelectric capacitor structure including a method for etching and cleaning patterned ferroelectric capacitor structures in a semiconductor device. The method comprises etching portions of an upper electrode, etching ferroelectric material, and etching a lower electrode to define a patterned ferroelectric capacitor structure, and etching a portion of a lower electrode diffusion barrier structure. The method further comprises ashing the patterned ferroelectric capacitor structure using a first ashing process, where the ash comprises an oxygen/nitrogen/water-containing ash, performing a wet clean process after the first ashing process, and ashing the patterned ferroelectric capacitor structure using a second ashing process.
US08093063B2 Assay for detecting genetic abnormalities in genomic nucleic acids
The present invention provides methods of detecting unamplifed genomic nucleic acid anchored to a solid support. The methods are useful for the detecting genetic abnormalities associated with various diseases, diagnosis, and prognosis.
US08093060B2 Multisite phosphorylated peptide (protein) recognizing compound and detection method, imaging method, alzheimer's disease diagnosing method and reagent kit using the same
A compound which captures a multisite phosphorylated peptide or protein specifically to a phosphorylation site and a method for detecting the peptide or protein using the compound. Particularly, a compound which specifically detects an excessively phosphorylated tau protein observed in the brain affected by Alzheimer's disease and a method for diagnosing Alzheimer's disease in vitro or in vivo using the compound are provided. By bringing a metal complex compound having two dipicolylamine (Dpa) moieties and a spacer including a chromogenic or luminescent functional or atom group into contact with a multisite phosphorylated peptide or protein, the compound recognizes the distance between phosphate groups and specifically binds to the peptide or protein, and a multisite phosphorylated peptide or protein or kinase activity is optically detected by measuring the change, or a multisite phosphorylated peptide or protein or kinase activity is imaged by an optical imaging method applying the change in luminescence.
US08093059B2 Method for simply quantitatively determining hexavalent chromium technical field
Provided is a method for simply quantitatively determining hexavalent chromium, including: separately bringing a plurality of test solutions into contact with a sample, the plurality of test solutions each containing a color change agent which changes in color upon reaction with hexavalent chromium, and an acid which dissolves the sample, the plurality of test solutions having different contents of the acid from each other; detecting color change in each of the test solutions; and when the color change is detected, specifying a range of content of hexavalent chromium in the sample on the basis of the content of the acid in a test solution with the color changed among the plurality of test solutions.
US08093057B2 System for quantitative measurement of glycohemoglobin and method for measuring glycohemoglobin
The present disclosure provides a device for simultaneously detecting hemoglobin and glycohemoglobin in blood. The device includes a lateral flow assay strip, a laser-induced epifluorescence detection device, and an LED detection device. The present disclosure further provides a method for simultaneously quantifying hemoglobin and glycohemoglobin in blood by an immunological method using the same.
US08093051B2 Method for isolation of inner cell mass and method of preparation of embryonic stem cell lines using inner cell mass isolated by the same
A method for isolation of an inner cell mass and a method for preparation of embryonic stem cell lines using the inner cell mass isolated by the same. A blastocyst being free from a zona pellucida removed therefrom is placed on a feeder cell, and a micro cover glass is put on the blastocyst to apply pressure caused by a weight of the micro cover glass, to the blastocyst for a desired time, so that the inner cell mass may be obtained with considerably improved yield compared to conventional methods, and therefore, an embryonic stem cell line may be efficiently established and proliferated.
US08093050B2 mTOR inhibtors and mTOR signaling pathway inhibitors induce differentiation of human embryonic stem cells into the osteoblastic lineage
Disclosed are a composition for introducing the osteogenic differentiation of human embryonic stem cells and a method for differentiating human embryonic stem cells into an osteoblastic lineage by inhibiting the mTOR signaling pathway. When cultured in the presence of an inhibitor of the mTOR signaling pathway, human embryonic stem cells are effectively induced to differentiate into an osteoblastic lineage. The osteogenic differentiation of human embryonic stem cells using the method and the composition is useful in examining the development and differentiation mechanism of osteoblasts and the cause of metabolic bone diseases, including osteoporosis. In addition, the method and the composition can be applied to the development of osteogenic differentiation techniques for generating clinically useful, terminally differentiated mature cells or progenitor cells.
US08093048B2 Methods and compositions for activating regenerative stem cells from bone marrow
The present invention provides novel compositions and methods for pharmaceutical or nutraceutical use in an animal, preferably in a human. In one aspect, compositions and methods are provided for activating regenerative stem cells from bone marrow, which can lead to enhanced proliferation of hematopoietic cells and immune functions of the body.
US08093041B1 Method and apparatus for membrane-based, two-stage gas production from solid biomaterials
Embodiments of the present invention preferably relate to a method and apparatus for a two-stage membrane-based production of gas, preferably hydrogen gas or the like, from solid biological materials, preferably organic waste materials or the like, comprising anaerobic hydrolysis and fermentation and photofermentation using microorganisms.
US08093031B2 Heparanases and splice variants thereof, polynucleotides encoding them and uses thereof
The invention relates to novel heparanases, heparanase splice variants, and to polynucleotides encoding them. Particularly, the invention relates to Spalax heparanases, and to Spalax and human heparanase splice variants. Heparanase splice variants can be used, for example, to modulate the activity of heparanase in diseases disorders or conditions caused by or associated with the enzymatic activity of heparanase. For instance, a splice variant capable of down regulating the activity of heparanase can be used to treat primary tumors and/or to prevent or treat metastasis.
US08093020B2 Allelic discrimination analysis using an efficiency related value (EFR)
In various embodiments this invention provides novel methods for discriminating two or more different target nucleic acids. In certain embodiments the methods comprise providing data amplification reactions comprising reagents to amplify two or more different target nucleic acids where the data comprise signals comprising an amplitude measurement representing the degree of amplification of each target nucleic acid in the amplification reaction and the time point in the amplification reaction at which the amplitude is measured; determining an efficiency related transform of the data, determining an efficiency related value for each target nucleic acid that is the maximum magnitude of the efficiency related transform; and outputting the efficiency related values in the amplification reaction for each target nucleic acid, where the relative amplitudes of the efficiency related values for each target nucleic acid is an indicator of the presence of each of said nucleic acids in said sample.
US08093016B2 Use of an aspartic protease (NS24) signal sequence for heterologous protein expression
The invention relates to heterologous polypeptide expression and secretion by filamentous fungi and vectors and processes for expression and secretion of such polypeptides. More particularly, the invention discloses the use of a signal sequence form an aspartic protease obtained from Trichoderma and referred to as an NSP24 signal sequence.
US08093013B2 Claudins as markers for early detection, diagnosis, prognosis and as targets of therapy for breast and metastatic brain or bone cancer
Methods of diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of breast cancer, and of metastatic brain cancer, are provided The diagnostic and prognostic methods involve the immunohistochemical detection of the level of expression of the proteins claudin 1, 3, 4, and 7 in tissue or cell samples. Claudins 1 and 7 are underexpressed in the majority of breast cancers, and claudins 3 and 4 are overexpressed. The methods of treatment involve the use of Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin (or a variant thereof) to lyse metastatic cancer cells in the brain and bone that overexpress claudins 3 and 4.
US08093010B2 Angiogenesis inhibiting molecules, their selection, production and their use in the treatment of cancer
The present invention relates to a method for providing molecules that are capable of inhibiting angiogenesis, comprising the steps of providing a range of molecules; testing whether these molecules can prevent interaction between JAM-B and JAM-C; testing the positive molecules for their ability to block angiogenesis in vivo; and selecting molecules that are positive in the angiogenesis test as angiogenesis inhibiting molecules. The method may further comprise the step of isolating or producing the angiogenesis inhibiting molecules. The invention further relates to the angiogenesis inhibiting molecules thus provided and produced, to their use in the treatment of cancer, to therapeutical compositions comprising them. In a particular embodiment the invention relates to monoclonal antibodies, in particular Mab H33, to soluble JAM-C and JAM-B and to small molecules.
US08093001B2 Detection and diagnosis of smoking related cancers
Gene probes for specific regions of chromosome 3 (3p21.3) and chromosome 10 (10q22) have been found to be tools for the diagnosis and prognosis of smoking related cancers such as non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). For example, these probes can be used with fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and used to stratify smokers into high and low risk groups, as well as determine a patients susceptibility to the development of smoking related cancers.
US08092995B2 Expressed pseudogene regulates gene expression
Selective expression of a pseudogene of myosin light chain kinase is found in cancer cells and tissues but not in normal cells and tissues. The pseudogene is expressed, and when expressed it inhibits expression of the ancestral myosin light chain kinase. This widespread expression among cancer cell types and the selective expression in cancer cells versus normal cells opens the door to many diagnostic and therapeutic applications.
US08092994B2 Human virus causing respiratory tract infection and uses thereof
The present invention provides the complete genomic sequence of a novel human coronavirus, coined as coronavirus-HKU1 (“CoV-HKU1”), isolated in Hong Kong from a patient who had a recent history of visit to Schenzhen, China. The virus belongs to the order Nidovirales of the family Coronavirdae, being a single-stranded RNA virus of positive polarity. The invention also provides the deduced amino acid sequences of the complete genome of the CoV-HKU1. The nucleotide sequences and deduced amino acid sequences of the CoV-HKU1 are useful in preventing, diagnosing and/or treating the infection by CoV-HKU1. Furthermore, the invention provides immunogenic and vaccine preparations using recombinant and chimeric forms as well as subunits of the CoV-HKU1 based on the nucleotide sequences and deduced amino acid sequences of the CoV-HKU1.
US08092991B2 De novo enzymatic production of nucleic acid molecules
The present invention relates to methods for making a nucleic acid molecule and methods for ligating oligonucleotides. The method includes ligating a first at least partially double-stranded oligonucleotide that has a first and second single-stranded overhang to a second at least partially double-stranded oligonucleotide that has a recognition site for a type IIS restriction enzyme, a modification allowing the oligonucleotide to be coupled to a surface, and a single-stranded overhang. The ligation product can be cleaved with a type IIS restriction enzyme, thereby releasing an elongated fragment having two single-stranded overhangs. These steps can be repeated by using the elongated fragment in a subsequent ligation to another at least partially double-stranded oligonucleotide that has a type IIS restriction enzyme recognition site.
US08092983B2 Method of making a lithographic printing plate
A method of making a lithographic printing plate includes the steps of: a) providing a lithographic printing plate precursor including (i) a support having a hydrophilic surface or which is provided with a hydrophilic layer, (ii) a coating on the support including a photopolymerizable layer and, optionally, an intermediate layer between the photopolymerizable layer and the support, wherein the photopolymerizable layer includes a polymerizable compound, a polymerization initiator, and a binder, b) image-wise exposing the coating in a plate setter, c) heating the precursor in a pre-heating unit, d) treating the precursor in a gumming station, including at least a first gumming unit, by applying a gum solution to the coating of the precursor, thereby removing the non-exposed areas of the photopolymerizable layer from the support, and wherein the steps (c) and (d) are carried out off-press in the pre-heating unit and the first gumming unit, and the pre-heating unit and the first gumming unit are coupled to each other by a mechanical plate conveying device or are integrated in a single apparatus.
US08092981B2 Negative photoresist composition and method of manufacturing array substrate using the same
A negative photoresist composition and a method of manufacturing an array substrate. The negative photoresist composition includes a photocurable composition including an ethylene unsaturated compound containing an ethylene unsaturated bond and a photopolymerization initiator, a thermosetting composition including an alkali-soluble resin crosslinked by heat and an organic solvent. The negative photoresist composition improves stability, photosensitivity, detachability after performing a developing operation and reduces residue to improve the reliability of an organic insulation layer. Furthermore, the negative photoresist composition improves the transmittance of an organic insulation layer and reduces the variation of color coordinates to improve the display quality of a display apparatus.
US08092966B2 Toner particle having excellent charging characteristics, long term credibility and transferring property, method for producing the same and toner containing said toner particle
The invention relates to toner particles having excellent charging characteristics and transferring properties, a method for producing the same and toner including the same. More particularly, the invention relates to toner particles, a method for producing the same and toner including the same, in which a CCA highly compatible with a binder resin is readily dispersed in the binder resin, thereby improving charge-maintaining property and charge distribution, and the resultant mixture is sphered to realize excellent long term credibility and transfer property. The toner particles include a styrene/acrylate-based CCA; a styrene/acrylate-based binder resin; and a polyester-based binder resin.
US08092961B2 Position aligning apparatus, position aligning method, and semiconductor device manufacturing method
A position aligning apparatus performs position alignment of a pattern in a current process of a pattern exposure process by using a pattern formed before the current process. The position aligning apparatus includes: a correction calculating section configured to calculate a correction value set of a current lot about each of misalignments in scale and rotation of a pattern in a chip in the current process based on a correction value set in an immediately-preceding lot in the current process, a completeness value set in the immediately-preceding lot in the current process, a summation of completeness value sets in the immediately-preceding lot to a process immediately-preceding to the current process, and a summation of completeness value sets in the current lot to the immediately-preceding process; and a correction control unit configured to control correction of the scale and the rotation of the pattern in the chip by using the correction value sets.
US08092957B2 Diffusion media formed by photopolymer based processes
A diffusion medium layer for a fuel cell, including an electrically conductive microtruss structure disposed between a pair of electrically conductive grids is provided. At least one of the microtruss structure and the grids is formed from a radiation-sensitive material. A fuel cell having the diffusion medium layer and a method for fabricating the diffusion medium layer is also provided.
US08092954B2 Method of making a fuel cell polymer electrolyte membrane comprising manganese oxide
Fuel cell membrane electrode assemblies and fuel cell polymer electrolyte membranes are provided comprising manganese oxides which demonstrate increased durability. Methods of making same are provided.
US08092949B2 Fuel cell system with fuel conversion reactor
Disclosed are a fuel reforming system and a fuel cell system having the same, which comprises a reformer to generate a reformed gas mainly containing hydrogen from a hydrogen containing fuel; and a CO remover to remove carbon monoxide from the reformed gas, wherein a ratio of an opening area of an inlet to an opening area of an outlet ranges from 1:1.5 to 1:3. Thus, the opening area of the inlet for the reforming fuel is larger than that of the outlet for the reformed gas, so that the reformed gas is smoothly discharged from the reformer without stagnating in the channel, thereby enhancing the reforming efficiency of the reformer.
US08092948B2 Energy production unit integrating a burner and a fuel cell
The invention concerns an energy production unit, of electric energy in particular, comprising a fuel cell (1) and a heat source (2) thermally coupled to the fuel cell (1) at least to allow the rise in temperature of this fuel cell (1).According to the invention, it is provided that the heat source (2) comprises a radiating burner (20), that the fuel cell (1) is confined within a thermal insulation enclosure itself heated by the combustion gases (F) derived from the burner (20), and that this unit also comprises temperature regulation means (4) capable of controlling, from around 200° C. to at least 800° C., the temperature of the combustion gases (F) heating the enclosure 3.
US08092947B1 Fuel cell system
Provided is a fuel cell system that performs a warm-up operation by reducing a supply of oxidant gas to a fuel cell, the system having: a fuel cell; and a control unit that regulates amounts of oxidant gas and fuel gas supplied to the fuel cell and controls a power-generation state of the fuel cell. During the warm-up operation with a reduced supply of oxidant gas to the fuel cell, the control unit varies a voltage of the fuel cell for a short period of time to obtain current-voltage characteristics which indicate a relationship of an output voltage and an output current of the fuel cell, calculates an effective catalyst area of the fuel cell based on the obtained current-voltage characteristics, and determines whether the warm-up operation of the fuel cell can be stopped or not based on the calculated effective catalyst area.
US08092939B2 Manganese dry battery containing an anode zinc can made of zinc and bismuth
A virtually lead additive-free but highly reliable and practical anode zinc can for a battery with improved process-ability and corrosion resistance. A manganese dry battery comprising such a zinc can. A manufacturing method for making the zinc can and a battery.
US08092933B2 Portable terminal having battery cover
The portable terminal includes a main body, a battery pack removably mounted to a back surface of the main body, and a battery cover mounted to the back surface of the main body. The battery cover is slidingly removable from the back surface of the main body and has a planar surface and an opening. When the battery cover is mounted to the main body, the battery cover receives the battery pack and a part of the main body is exposed through the opening.
US08092932B2 Battery pack and internal component arrangement within the battery pack for cordless power tool system
An internal component arrangement within a battery pack housing having multiple cells and adapted for cordless power tools may provide desired mechanical support to constrain the cells. The housing with internal component arrangement is configured to route sensing wires from the cells to an electronics module of the pack.
US08092928B2 Reinforced ceramic refractory
The disclosed invention relates to a reinforced ceramic refractory made from an as-batched composition comprising alumina; a rare earth oxide; an oxide of a transition metal comprising Sc, Zn, Ga, Y, Cd, In, Sn, Tl or a mixture of two or more thereof; and chopped ceramic fibers containing nanofibrils; the refractory exhibiting a modulus of rupture measured at 2500° F. (1371° C.) of at least about 2500 psi, as determined by the test method ASTM C583. A process for making the reinforced ceramic refractory is disclosed.
US08092919B2 Toughened polyacetal compositions and blends having low surface gloss
Polyacetal compositions and blends toughened with polyvinylbutyral having enhanced adhesive surface properties, including enhanced surface adhesion and low surface gloss, are disclosed. Also disclosed are articles of manufacture comprising the polyacetal compositions described herein.
US08092912B2 Window with anti-bacterial and/or anti-fungal feature and method of making same
Certain example embodiments of this invention relate to a window having anti-fungal/anti-bacterial properties and/or self-cleaning properties, and a method of making the same. In certain example embodiments, a silver based layer is be provided and the layer(s) located thereover (e.g., the zirconium oxide inclusive layer) are designed to permit silver particles to migrate/diffuse to the surface over time to kill bacteria/germs at the surface of the coated article thereby creating an anti-bacterial/anti-fungal effect. In certain example embodiments, silver may also or instead be mixed in with other material as the top layer of the anti-bacterial coating.
US08092910B2 Reinforced silicone resin film and method of preparing same
A method of preparing a reinforced silicone resin film, the method comprising the steps of impregnating a fiber reinforcement in a hydrosilylation-curable silicone composition comprising a silicone resin, and heating the impregnated fiber reinforcement at a temperature sufficient to cure the silicone resin, wherein the reinforced silicone resin film comprises from 10 to 99% (w/w) of the cured silicone resin and the film has a thickness of from 15 to 500 μm; and a reinforced silicone resin film prepared according to the method.
US08092908B2 Graphite film and graphite composite film
An object of the present invention is to provide a graphite film, and a graphite composite film both having an excellent thermal diffusivity which can sufficiently manage heat dissipation of electronic instruments, precision instruments and the like, along with an excellent flex resistance which can withstand application to bent portions.Means for Resolution of the present invention is a graphite film exhibiting the number of reciprocal foldings being 10,000 times or more as measured using a rectangular strip test piece having a width of 15 mm until the test piece breaks in a MIT folding endurance test under conditions of: a curvature radius R of the bending clamp being 2 mm; a left-and-right bending angle being 135°; a bending rate being 90 times/min; and a load being 0.98 N.
US08092901B2 Multi-layer weather-resistant, coloured panel
A multilayer product characterized by its improved weatherability and mechanical properties is disclosed. The product contains a layer A containing a member selected from the group consisting of transparent thermoplastic material and a lacquer, the member containing at least one UV absorber, a layer B containing a transparent thermoplastic material and containing at least one colorant, and a layer C containing a transparent thermoplastic material. Also disclosed is a process for the preparation of the inventive multilayer product.
US08092889B2 Silver alloy reflective film for optical information storage media, optical information storage medium, and sputtering target for the deposition of silver alloy reflective film for optical information storage media
A silver alloy reflective film for optical information storage media, which can maintain superior environmental resistance, such as high hygrothermal resistance and high light stability, over the long term even when the metal reflective film is in direct contact with a resin layer. An optical information storage medium includes the reflective film and a sputtering target deposits the reflective film. The silver alloy reflective film includes one or more specific elements selected from Pr, Ho, Yb, Sm, Er, Tm, and Tb, to suppress deterioration occurring when the silver alloy reflective film is in direct contact with a resin layer, where silver in the reflective film migrates and aggregates into the adjacent resin layer.
US08092884B2 Single layer fuel tank
A single layer fuel tank includes a polyamide component, an impact modifier, and a binding filler. The polyamide component has a polyamide selected from the group of polyamide 6, polyamide 6/6, polyamide 6/66, and combinations thereof. The polyamide component also includes up to 5 parts by weight of polyamide oligomers per 100 parts by weight of the polyamide component. The impact modifier is an organic copolymer and is present in an amount of up to 30 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the fuel tank. The binding filler is not covalently bonded to the polyamide and includes at least one of a silica and a cyclodextrin. In addition, the binding filler is present in an amount of up to 10 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the fuel tank.
US08092883B2 Resin tank weld member
A resin tank weld member is a weld member that is to be welded to a resin tank that has a fuel permeation prevention function, for example, a pipe fitting, a fuel control valve such as a fuel escape prevention valve, an ORVR valve, etc., a pump, a filter device, etc. The resin tank weld member is formed from a single-layer material of a polyamide/polyolefin-based resin composition.
US08092876B2 Coating compositions for cans and methods of coating
A coating composition for a food or beverage can that includes an emulsion polymerized latex polymer formed by combining an ethylenically unsaturated monomer component with an aqueous dispersion of a water-dispersible polymer.
US08092868B2 Die coating apparatus, die coating method, and adhesive sheet and foamed sheet
The present invention provides a die coating apparatus, which includes a die including an upstream-side bar and a downstream side-bar aligned with each other along a direction of transportation of a band-shaped support continuously transported by a backup roll so as to form a pocket for storing a coating solution and a slit serving as a feed-out path of the coating solution, the slit having an outlet for feeding out the coating solution stored in the pocket of the die therefrom to thereby coat the coating solution on the band-shaped support, in which the downstream-side bar has a lip having a divergent cross-sectional shape continuous in the direction of a width of the downstream-side bar, and an inclination angle θ of a side end part on the most downstream side of the lip of the downstream-side bar is within the range of 20° to 80°.
US08092866B2 Thermochromatic pigment covered article and method of making the same
A thermochromatic pigment covered article, comprising a substrate, and a single layer of a combined encapsulated thermochromatic pigment and resin or resin mixture disposed on the substrate. In accordance with the method of the present invention, an encapsulated thermochromatic pigment mixture and a resin or resin mixture are combined and mixed so that the thermochromatic pigment is disbursed and protected in the resin to prevent it from separating therefrom, and the combined pigment mixture and resin or resin mixture are then applied to the substrate in a single layer.
US08092860B2 Topographically selective oxidation
Methods for oxidizing organic compounds coated or adsorbed on a topographically patterned solid surface are provided. The methods can be used to selectively remove the organic compounds from the non-recessed areas.
US08092856B2 Method for patterning a medical device
The present disclosure provides a method for forming a color pattern on a medical device.
US08092854B2 Method of attaching an antimicrobial cationic polyelectrolyte to the surface of a substrate
A method of bonding an antimicrobial cationic polyelectrolyte to the surface of a substrate is described, wherein the antimicrobial thus attached to the substrate provides the substrate with antimicrobial properties, and at least a portion of the bonded antimicrobial is substantially non-leachable during normal conditions of use and storage. A method of manufacturing an antimicrobial material is described which comprises exposure of the substrate to a solution of antimicrobial cationic polyelectrolyte, followed by drying the exposed substrate thoroughly to impart a non-leaching property to at least a portion of the antimicrobial cationic polyelectrolytes.
US08092844B2 Combinations of vasoactive agents and their use in the treatment of sexual dysfunctions
This invention relates to combinations of vasoactive substances which are useful in the treatment of sexual dysfunctions associated with poor local blood supply and/or insufficient lubrication. The active compounds are selected from a: esculoside or visnadine; forskolin or extracts containing it, or alternatively, purified lipophilic extracts of plants of the genus Ipomea; esters of ximenynic acid; optionally, at least one compound selected from a icarin or derivatives or extracts thereof which contain it, amentoflavone, and Gingko biloba dimeric flavones. The combination of these vasoactive substances is incorporated in gels and lotions designed to be applied to the genital organs. These formulations are useful in inducing erection of the male and female sex organs and enhancing orgasm and sexual performance. The formulations are particularly useful in the treatment of female sexual dysfunctions.
US08092838B2 Use of hydrogen sulfide in the treatment of eye diseases
Topical administration of a generator of H2S in biological tissues for the treatment of eye disorders, such as glaucoma. NaHS caused a time-dependent decrease in intraocular pressure in normotensive, conscious albino rabbits indicating a similar role for H2S in the regulation of aqueous humor dynamics in animals and humans. H2S donors, NaHS and Na2S, inhibited field-stimulated [3H]NE release from porcine isolated iris-ciliary bodies and produced relaxation of pre-contracted iris muscle strips indicating a pharmacological role for H2S in the anterior uvea. The observation that donors of H2S can alter sympathetic neurotransmission and induce an inhibitory action on iris smooth muscle suggests that this gas has the potential to influence several physiological/pathological processes in the eye. The ability of NaHS or Na2S to inhibit [3H]NE release mimics the well-established action some antiglaucoma drugs (e.g. α2-adrenoceptor agonists, prostaglandins) on sympathetic neurotransmission in the anterior uvea and can be used to reduce IOP in animals and humans.