Document Document Title
US08154919B2 Method of reading nonvolatile memory device and nonvolatile memory device for implementing the method
A nonvolatile memory device includes a read margin critical value calculation unit configured to calculate a critical value of a read margin between a read voltage and a threshold voltage of a specific cell, an interference value calculation unit configured to calculate an interference value affecting the threshold voltage of the specific cell, a comparison unit configured to compare the critical value and the interference value and to output a result of the comparison, and a data selection unit configured to output either first data, read from the specific cell using a first read voltage, or second data, read from the specific cell using a second read voltage, based on the result outputted from the comparison unit.
US08154918B2 Method for page- and block based scrambling in non-volatile memory
A method and system for programming and reading data with reduced read errors in a memory device. In one approach, date to be written to the memory device is scrambled using a first pseudo random number which is generated based on a page of the memory device to which the data is to be written, to provide first scrambled data, which is scrambled using a second pseudo random number which is generated based on a block of the memory device to which the data is to be written. This avoids bit line-to-bit line and block-to-block redundancies which can result in read errors. The data may also be scrambled using a third pseudo random number that depends on a section within a page. Scrambling may also be based on one or more previous pages which were written.
US08154915B2 Magnetoresistive element and magnetoresistive random access memory including the same
The present invention provides a low-resistance magnetoresistive element of a spin-injection write type. A crystallization promoting layer that promotes crystallization is formed in contact with an interfacial magnetic layer having an amorphous structure, so that crystallization is promoted from the side of a tunnel barrier layer, and the interface between the tunnel barrier layer and the interfacial magnetic layer is adjusted. With this arrangement, it is possible to form a magnetoresistive element that has a low resistance so as to obtain a desired current value, and has a high TMR ratio.
US08154914B2 Predictive thermal preconditioning and timing control for non-volatile memory cells
A method and apparatus for using thermal preconditioning to write data to a non-volatile memory cell, such as a spin-torque transfer random access memory (STRAM) memory cell. In some embodiments, a logical state is written to an unconditioned non-volatile first memory cell associated with a first block address. Thermal preconditioning is concurrently applied to a non-volatile second memory cell associated with a second block address selected in response to the first block address.
US08154913B2 Magnetoresistance effect element and magnetic random access memory
A magnetoresistance effect element comprising: a first magnetization fixed layer whose magnetization direction is fixed; a first magnetization free layer whose magnetization direction is variable; a first nonmagnetic layer sandwiched between the first magnetization fixed layer and the first magnetization free layer; a second magnetization fixed layer whose magnetization direction is fixed; a second magnetization free layer whose magnetization direction is variable; and a second nonmagnetic layer sandwiched between the second magnetization fixed layer and the second magnetization free layer. The first magnetization fixed layer and the first magnetization free layer have perpendicular magnetic anisotropy, while the second magnetization fixed layer and the second magnetization free layer have in-plane magnetic anisotropy. The first magnetization free layer and the second magnetization free layer are magnetically coupled to each other. In a plane parallel to each layer, center of the second magnetization free layer is displaced from center of the first magnetization free layer.
US08154892B2 Method for controlling electrical power
Power output of a power generation system is controlled by measuring the output voltage of the system, dividing the measured voltage value into a target power value, then controlling the current provided by the generation system to the calculated value. In some embodiments the power generation system is connected to a grid.
US08154887B2 Dual isolated input single power supply topology
An electric power supply system includes a transformer having two primary windings for receiving input power and a secondary winding for delivering output power, in which the primary windings are galvanically isolated from each other. A method for supplying electrical power to a load includes magnetically coupling a first primary voltage to a secondary power output; and magnetically coupling a second primary voltage to the secondary power output so that the second primary voltage is kept galvanically isolated from the first primary voltage.
US08154873B2 Heat dissipation device for memory module
A heat dissipation device removing heat from a memory module includes two conducting plate clipping the memory module and an elastic member. Each conducting plate includes a lower part and an upper part. The two lower parts of the two conducting plates abut against two opposite sides of the memory module, respectively. The two upper parts of the two conducting plates are pivotably connected together and located above the memory module. The elastic member is located between the two upper parts and urges the two lower parts towards the memory module. The upper part of each conducting plate is slantwise at an obtuse angle to the lower part to make the two upper parts of the two conducting plates splay upwardly.
US08154864B1 LED display module having a metallic housing and metallic mask
The present invention is a robust LED display module for use in an electronic sign which display module includes a metallic housing, a heat conductive interface panel, an LED circuit board and LEDs, and a metallic mask arranged in intimate contact and association therewith, and which components operate synergistically in concert with each other in order to evenly distribute, reduce and dissipate heat along, about and within the structure of the present invention. Display uniformity is provided by the use of major metallic structures in order to prevent warpage and to protect the geometric integrity of the LED display module.
US08154858B2 Electronic device and electronic system
An electronic device includes: an accommodation section that detachably accommodates a portable device; an eject unit that ejects the portable device accommodated in the accommodation section; and a guide mechanism that guides the portable device so that a first side of the portable device is positioned in the accommodation section and a second side thereof opposite to the first side is ejected from the accommodation section. The eject unit is arranged behind the accommodation section, and the accommodation section has an opening through which the second side of the portable device accommodated in the accommodation section is exposed.
US08154856B2 Cabinet for a power distribution system
A power distribution system comprising a cabinet configured to hold electronic components therein. An outside surface of the cabinet has one or more electrical termination contacts thereon such that a surface of the electrical termination contacts is part of the outside surface. The electrical termination contacts are configured to be coupled to an external DC power source at the outside surface.
US08154855B2 Solid electrolytic capacitor and method for manufacturing the same
A method for manufacturing a solid electrolytic capacitor that prevents leakage current from increasing. The method includes preparing a capacitor element including an anode body, which has an anode lead, and a cathode layer; preparing a lead terminal including an anode terminal, a cathode terminal, and a first insulative member which connects the anode terminal and cathode terminal; connecting the lead terminal and the capacitor element by bonding the anode terminal and the anode lead and bonding the cathode terminal and the cathode layer; and molding a package resin around the capacitor element.
US08154850B2 Systems and methods for a thin film capacitor having a composite high-k thin film stack
Systems and methods are provided for fabricating a thin film capacitor involving depositing an electrode layer of conductive material on top of a substrate material, depositing a first layer of ferroelectric material on top of the substrate material using a metal organic deposition or chemical solution deposition process, depositing a second layer of ferroelectric material on top of the first layer using a high temperature sputter process and depositing a metal interconnect layer to provide electric connections to layers of the capacitor.
US08154848B2 Multilayer ceramic electronic component including external electrodes that include a plating layer having a low film stress
A multilayer ceramic electronic component includes a laminate including a stack of a plurality of ceramic layers and a plurality of internal electrodes extending along interfaces between the ceramic layers, and a plurality of external electrodes electrically connecting the internal electrodes exposed at surfaces of the laminate. Each external electrode includes a plating layer at least at the portion directly connected to the internal electrodes. The plating layer has a compressive film stress of about 100 MPa or less or a tensile film stress of about 100 MPa or less.
US08154844B2 Wearable shield and self-defense device including multiple integrated components
A personal defense device that includes a shield member configured to be worn over at least a third of a length of a user's forearm, the forearm being bounded by the user's ipsilateral wrist and ipsilateral elbow, the length being measured from the wrist to the elbow, the shield member conforming closely to the outer surface counters of a forearm, and a portable source of electricity. The shield member includes an electrical shock bar configured to receive an electrical current from the electrical source and to deliver an electrical shock to a human or other animal.
US08154821B2 Magnetic head-positioning servo system, magnetic head test system and magnetic disk test system
A magnetic head-positioning servo system is provided to accurately test a magnetic disk with a track written in advance, by providing two fine actuators. The second fine actuator, to which a magnetic head is attached, is mounted on the first fine actuator. The second fine actuator has a larger generating displacement than a generating displacement of the first fine actuator, and lets the magnetic disk to follow the eccentricity of the track. In this way, the positioning accuracy can be increased.
US08154812B1 Condensing a defect scan log for a disk of a disk drive
The embodiments relate to optimizing a defect log of a storage device, such as a disk drive. The defect log may comprise entries for individual locations, such as sectors on a disk, and entries indicating zones. A zone comprises a plurality of locations in the medium of the storage device and may contain adjacent or non-adjacent defects. One or more medium of the storage device may be scanned for defects and locations of these defects are recorded in the defect log. The defect log may then be analyzed to determine if certain number of defects are in proximity to each other, adjacent or non-adjacent, within a zone. If the defects within a zone exceed a threshold, then the defect log may be condensed by coalescing the individual entries of the defects into zone entries. In addition, the defect log may be further condensed by coalescing zone entries of adjacent zones into combined entries.
US08154796B2 Microscope apparatus
A microscope apparatus that can observe into the interior of a specimen and that can apply an optical stimulus over a wide area within a short period of time is provided. The microscope apparatus comprises at least one observation scanning optical system including a laser light source for emitting observation laser light, an objective lens, and a scanning optical system for two-dimensionally scanning the observation laser light in a predetermined examination plane of the specimen via the objective lens; and at least one stimulus optical system which includes a lamp light source for emitting light having a wavelength used for optical stimulation and which irradiates the specimen with the light emitted from the lamp light source.
US08154795B2 Stereo microscope with beam splitter device
The present invention relates to a stereo microscope (20) with a first and a second main beam path (21, 22), the spacing of which defines a stereo base (23), wherein an axis of the microscope (24) extends through the middle of the stereo base (23) parallel to the main beam paths (21, 22), and with an optical beam splitter device (30) for producing an assistant beam path (31) and a documentation beam path (32), wherein the direction of the assistant beam path (31) in a first position is rotated by 180° to the direction of the assistant beam path (31) in a second position of the beam splitter device (30), and the decoupled documentation beam path (32) in both positions of the beam splitter device (30) is in each case perpendicular to the decoupled assistant beam path (31), and wherein in both the first and second positions of the beam splitter device (30) the assistant beam path (31) can in each case be decoupled at least from the first main beam path (21) and the documentation beam path (32) can in each case be decoupled at least from the second main beam path (22).
US08154793B2 Nonlinear chirped pulse fiber amplifier with pulse compression
A chirped-pulse fiber amplification method and system operates with large nonlinear phase shifts (as large as ˜20π or more). In this regime, the pulse spectrum is modified by strong self-phase modulation and gain shaping. With large-enough nonlinear phase shift, substantial spectral broadening occurs. The amplified spectrum can therefore be much broader than the spectrum that is obtained with small nonlinear phase shifts. The broader spectrum enables the formation of a shorter pulse, and the bandwidth generated in nonlinear chirped-pulse amplification can in fact be exploited to generate shorter pulses. Ultimately, this allows the generation of pulses shorter than the gain-narrowing limit of a fiber amplifier.
US08154785B2 Rotating mirrored stile for usage within a mirror labyrinth
A process for enhancing an illusion created by a mirror labyrinth containing a series of interreflective mirrors includes the placement of a rotatable mirrored stile rotating about a vertical axis within the mirror labyrinth to interact with the series of interreflective mirrors to enhance the illusion created by the mirror labyrinth. The rotatable mirrored stile preferably has a motor drive mechanism mountable to a floor or ceiling of a mirror maze. A polygonal post is mounted to the drive mechanism to define a rotational axis with the post defining from two to eight rotationally degenerate faces. At least one of the rotationally degenerate faces is mirrored.
US08154781B2 Compact holographic display device
A holographic display device comprises a first OLED array writing onto a first OASLM, the first OLED array and the first OASLM forming adjacent layers, and a second OLED array writing onto a second OASLM, the second OLED array and the second OASLM forming adjacent layers. The first and the second OASLMs encode a hologram and a holographic reconstruction is generated by the device when an array of read beams illuminates the first and second OASLMs and the first and second OASLMs are suitably controlled by the first and second OLED arrays. Advantages include that this device permits independent control of phase and amplitude, and the device lends itself to compactness.
US08154780B2 Holographic image projection systems
A holographic image projection system for projecting an image at an acute angle onto a surface includes: a spatial light modulator (SLM) to display a hologram; an illumination system to illuminate the displayed hologram; projection optics to project light from the illuminated displayed hologram onto the surface at an acute angle form the image; and a processor having an input to receive input image data for display and an output to provide hologram data for the SLM, wherein the processor is configured to: input image data and convert this to target image data; generate from the target image data hologram data for display as a hologram on the SLM to reproduce a target image; and wherein the target image is distorted to compensate for the projection of the hologram at an acute angle to form the image.
US08154775B2 Book scanner using the digital camera
The present invention relates to a book scanner using a digital camera, including a main body including a housing opened at a top thereof and having an inner space and a table covering the opened top of the housing, illuminating units disposed in the main body and configured to irradiate light to the table so that left and right images of a book are projected from the table, a digital camera having a lens disposed from the inside bottom of the housing toward the center of the table and configured to capture images of the left and right pages of the book, fixed mirrors disposed on the left and right sides of the digital camera at the bottom of the housing and configured to primarily reflect images of the left and right pages of the book toward the digital camera, and a rotating mirror disposed over the digital camera and configured to secondarily reflect images of the left and right pages of the book toward the digital camera selectively while rotating left and right.
US08154770B2 Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus that includes an image reading part to read an image of an original, an image recording part to record the image read by the image reading part on a sheet, a sheet discharge part to discharge the sheet recorded by the image recording part from front to rear of a main body of the image forming apparatus, a sheet stack part to stack the sheet discharged by the sheet discharge part between the image reading part and the image recording part, first and second supporters provided outside the sheet stack part along a discharge direction of the sheet to form a space between the sheet stack part and the image reading part, and a lock mechanism to lock the image reading part. The image reading part slides relative to the first and second supporters in the discharge direction.
US08154765B2 Methods and algorithms for adjusting gloss levels in printers
A printer configured to adjust gloss appearance of images includes a marking engine configured to render an image on a substrate from input image data; and a controller configured to: (i) correlate a minimum luminance value to be used by the printer based on a gloss selection; (ii) determine a black point compensation function based on the correlated minimum luminance value; and (iii) adjust luminance values for input image data using the determined black point compensation function. A method to adjust gloss appearance of images is also provided.
US08154762B2 Image forming apparatus and method of controlling same
In order to enlarge a gamut in the low-brightness region of the hue of a special color, an image forming apparatus comprises an input unit for inputting color image data for which an image is to be formed; a color separation unit for generating color data in which the color image data has been separated into each of the plurality of colors; and an image forming unit for forming a color image based upon the color data; wherein said color separation unit generates the color data so that the color data has a region in which amount of the color material of the color black used is increased and amount of the color material of the special color used is increased as brightness declines in a low-brightness region in the hue of the special color.
US08154748B2 Digital broadcast reception apparatus and method of printing information contents in the apparatus
A digital television which allows a user to view a digital broadcast program designates print information to be printed when making a DTV printer print using program information of the digital broadcast program and the print information supplied together with the program information. The digital television determines whether the print information is a content A supplied from a broadcast station together with the program information or a content B supplied from a WEB server by downloading it from a supply source. If the print information is the content B, the digital television determines whether the print information can be downloaded from the supply source prior to the program broadcasting. A system is thus constructed which can determine whether the print information can be printed when the user reserves printing of the print information.
US08154747B2 External terminal control apparatus and control method thereof
An external terminal control apparatus associates a category which classifies menu information about a first group of menu screens for operating the external terminal control apparatus with address information corresponding to file data that configure a second group of menu screens for operating an external terminal to integrate menu items of the external terminal with the menu items of the external terminal control apparatus. The external terminal control apparatus adds a menu item corresponding to address information to the menu information according to the associated category.
US08154745B2 Method and apparatus to generate XHTML contents
A method and apparatus to generate XHTML-Print data including: generating XHTML-Print extension data corresponding to an adornment image and an insertion image desired to be printed; and generating XHTML-Print printing data by adding the generated XHTML-Print extension data to XHTML-Print basic data prepared in advance.
US08154743B2 Printer testing system that conserves paper and toner
A method for processing print data to a printer, comprising processing data through an optimized tester, which transforms the data by simplifying each page image while preserving information to enable recognizing identity of each page; and sending the transformed print data to a printer. The invention results in conservation of paper and toner while testing of printing systems, and presents a uniform and general way of transforming print data by simplifying each page image. The methods also include shifting printing position for each printing run to enable reuse of paper, substitution with an identification number or scaled-down image; sending normal print data through optimized tester; optimized tester generating print data, using saved print file; printer driver containing optimized tester; embedding print data PDL with tester commands; processing data through optimized tester parser and renderer within printer controller; saving data in NVRAM; and only storing log data corresponding to simplified transformed data into log storage without consumption of paper or toner.
US08154740B2 Image processing apparatus for concatenating a read document image, method of generating an index of a concatenated image, and computer-readable recording medium having index generation program recorded
An image processing apparatus includes a scanner for reading out documents, a first extraction unit for extracting text contained in document images, a second extraction unit for extracting at least one Web address from the text, a fetch unit for obtaining at least one Web page corresponding to the Web address, a first generation unit for generating a concatenated image by concatenating the document images with the Web page, and a second generation unit for generating an index indicating a corresponding relationship between the document images and the Web page in the concatenated image.
US08154732B2 Multiband spatial heterodyne spectrometer and associated methods
A multiband spatial heterodyne spectrometer for determining spectra in first and second wavelength bands has a beam splitter configured to split incident light and to direct the incident light upon a first and a second diffraction grating. The gratings are configured for Littrow reflection of incident light of the first wavelength band at a first order and Littrow reflection of incident light of the second wavelength band at a second order. Light reflected by the first and the second diffraction grating forms diffraction patterns that are imaged by an electronic camera. A dispersive device such as a prism or diffraction grating separates the imaged interference patterns onto separate rows of pixel sensors corresponding to the wavelength bands. A processing device receives information from the detector and computes spectra therefrom. In embodiments, the spectrometer is configured to compute hyperspectral images of a target.
US08154731B2 Method and a system for the assessment of samples
The present invention offers an alternative strategy for the correlation of interference information to chemical and/or physical properties of a sample. This strategy can be implemented in a method and a system, which offer substantial technical and commercial advantages over state of the art techniques based on interference spectroscopy. The invention further provides a method for standardizing an interferometer, as well as a method and a system using the standardized interferometer.
US08154719B2 Mask inspection apparatus
A lightweight and inexpensive mask inspection apparatus having highly efficient environmental radiation resistance is provided. The mask inspection apparatus is a mask inspection apparatus for inspecting for mask defects and includes a light source, an illuminating optical system configured to irradiate a mask with an inspection light emitted from the light source, a magnifying optical system configured to cause the inspection light with which the mask is irradiated to form an image as an optical image, and image sensor configured to acquire the optical image. The image sensor has an environmental radiation shielding member of heavy metal having a specific gravity equal to or greater than that of tantalum (Ta) at least on a side opposite to a receiving surface of a sensor chip.
US08154717B2 Optical apparatus for defect inspection
An optical apparatus for defect inspection having an illuminating optical system for irradiating illumination light beams on the surface of a specimen to form a beam spot and a detection optical system for detecting a reflection light ray originating from the beam spot comprises a storage unit in which the position and size of a standard particle of known size on a specimen for correction are stored in advance, a correction processing section which, when the correction specimen is used as an inspection target, correlates a detected scattering light quantity from the standard particle with the known size of standard particle stored at a corresponding position in the storage unit to prepare a correlation between the scattering light quantity and a true value, and a signal processing section which, when an inspection wafer is used as an inspection target, converts a detected scattering light quantity into a defect dimension.
US08154708B2 Lithographic apparatus and device manufacturing method
A lithographic projection apparatus is disclosed in which a space between the projection system and a sensor is filled with a liquid.
US08154707B2 Illumination optical system and exposure apparatus having the same
An illumination optical system for illuminating an object surface using light from a light source, the illumination optical system includes, a first optical system that includes a movable unit that is movable along an optical axis, said first optical system guiding the light to the object surface and varying an irradiation area on a certain plane, and a second optical system that can be located on and removed from an optical path of said first optical system, the second optical system varies, when located on the optical path of said first optical system, the irradiation area on the certain plane in cooperation with said first optical system, while maintaining a shape of a light intensity distribution on the certain plane, relative to the irradiation area irradiated only by said first optical system.
US08154701B2 Liquid crystal display device with link lines connecting to tape carrier package
A liquid crystal display device includes first and second substrates facing each other and attached to each other with a cell-gap therebetween, gate lines and data lines arranged horizontally and vertically on the first substrate, first lines formed on the first substrate, connected to the gate lines or the data lines, and each having a link bending point and bent at an angle, a TCP electrically attached to the first substrate, and second lines formed on the TCP and electrically connected to the first lines respectively. At least one link bending point is positioned at a region of the TCP.
US08154697B2 Liquid crystal display and method of driving same
There is disclosed a lightweight and small liquid crystal display which achieves low power consumption and in which the optical anisotropy of the liquid crystal material is compensated for in order to enhance the viewing angle characteristics and the response speed of the liquid crystal material. Display electrodes and a common electrode are formed on one of the substrates. The orientation of the liquid crystal material is of the HAN (hybrid alignment nematic) type. This compensates for the optical anisotropy of the liquid crystal material and improves the response speed.
US08154690B2 Polarized-light splitting device, display including the same, method of manufacturing the same, and apparatus for manufacturing the same
A polarized-light splitting device includes a transmissive base member having a base portion and pattern of ridges on the base portion, and a non-transmissive layer on the ridges, wherein the non-transmissive layer includes a light reflecting portion, and a light absorbing portion.
US08154675B2 Liquid crystal display panel and method for manufacturing the same
A lateral electric field liquid crystal display panel is provided which includes a pair of substrates, a liquid crystal enclosed between the pair of substrates, liquid crystal-drive electrodes provided on one of the pair of substrates, a translucent electrostatic shielding layer provided on an exterior surface of at least one of the pair of substrates, and a polarizer disposed on the translucent electrostatic shielding layer, and in this liquid crystal display panel, the translucent electrostatic shielding layer has properties not to disappear by a chemical reaction with a material forming the polarizer.
US08154674B2 Liquid crystal display, array substrate and mother glass thereof
An array substrate for a liquid crystal display, a liquid crystal display comprising the array substrate, and a mother glass from which the array substrate is cut off, are provided. The array substrate comprises a plurality of scan lines; a plurality of data lines crossing with the plurality of scan lines; and a common electrode bus, wherein each of the array substrate further comprises a shorting bar which transmits the same signal as a signal that the common electrode bus transmits during operation of the corresponding liquid crystal display. The invention both improves the utilization of a mother glass and allows testing the data lines and/or scan lines with shorting bars.
US08154673B2 Touch panel and driving method thereof
A touch panel including a first transparent substrate, a second transparent substrate, first conductive patterns, first electrodes, second conductive patterns, second electrodes, and spacers is provided. The first conductive patterns are disposed on the first transparent substrate, and extend along a first direction. The first electrodes are disposed at the two ends of the first conductive patterns in the first direction. The second conductive patterns are disposed on the second substrate, and extend along a second direction intersecting the first direction. The second electrodes are disposed at the two ends of the second conductive patterns in the second direction. The abovementioned conductive patterns are located between the first substrate and the second substrate, and the projections of the conductive patterns to the first transparent substrate are partially overlapped to form sensing blocks. The spacers are disposed between the first conductive patterns and the second conductive patterns to form a gap.
US08154666B2 Spectrum sensing function for cognitive radio applications
A method and system are disclosed to detect a broad class of signals including Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) digital television (DTV) and wireless microphone signals. This signal detection method performs in Gaussian noise, employing Higher Order Statistics (HOS). Signals are processed in time and frequency domains as well as by real and imaginary components. The spectrum sensing employed also supports Denial of Service (DoS) signal classification. The method can include parameters that may be tailored to adjust the probability of detection and false alarm.
US08154664B2 Method and apparatus for DC restoration using feedback
A feedback circuit for restoration of DC in video signals is presented. A sample pulse representing the back porch of an incoming video signal is generated from the horizontal sync signal. The sample pulse triggers a sample and hold circuit to acquire the correct offset voltage in the output signal during this back porch period. The offset voltage feeds back through a summing node upstream of either the circuit causing the offset or an input amplifier thereby restoring the video signal to the desired DC voltage level with respect to ground.
US08154658B2 Television and method for adding datafiles therein
A television includes a device memory for storing a plurality of data files; an interface for connecting an external device to the television; and a detector used for detecting whether the external device is connected to the television and detecting whether the external device has files, and generating a file detected signal when the external device has files; a process module configured for detecting whether the files in the external device are the same as the files in the device memory, and outputting options for selection when the files in the external device is not the same as the files in the device memory; an input module for receiving operational inputs and generating optional selection signal when receiving the options from the process module; the process module is further configured for generating an add signal when detecting a voltage of the optional selection signal is high; an add module used for copying the files from the external device to the television based on the add signal.
US08154655B2 Processing high definition video data
Video data is processed. A first high definition program stream is received that includes a first high definition video stream component. A first standard definition program stream is derived from the high definition program stream. A second standard definition is received having been derived from the first standard definition program stream. A second high definition program stream is derived from the second standard definition program stream and the first high definition video stream component.
US08154654B2 Frame interpolation device, frame interpolation method and image display device
According to one embodiment, a frame interpolation device includes a detecting section which receives a frame signal of 60 Hz and outputs a pull-down detection signal when determining that the frame signal is a pull-down signal, a generation section which generates a first frame signal of 120 Hz by use of a first insertion pattern based on the frame signal of 60 Hz and a second frame signal of 120 Hz by use of a second insertion pattern, and a selecting section which outputs the first frame signal by the first insertion pattern when the pull-down detection signal is not received and outputs the second frame signal of 120 Hz of the second insertion pattern when the pull-down detection signal is received.
US08154653B2 Expandable two axis or three axis camera support
A camera support or head has a pan frame pivotably attached to a support hub. The support hub is attached to a camera crane or similar apparatus. The pan frame has first and second spaced apart and parallel adjustable length pan arms. A pan motor is attached to the pan frame and adapted to pivot the pan frame about a pan axis relative to the support hub. A tilt frame is pivotably attached to the pan frame. The tilt frame may include first and second spaced apart and parallel adjustable length tilt arms attached to opposite ends of a camera mounting plate. A tilt motor is attached to the tilt frame and to the pan frame and is adapted to pivot the tilt frame about a tilt axis perpendicular to the pan axis. The adjustable length tilt arms allow the camera head to extended to accommodate cameras requiring more vertical clearance. The adjustable length tilt arms allow the camera platform to be moved to better locate the center of gravity of the camera on the tilt axis, for more balanced loading.
US08154651B2 Image recording apparatus and control method thereof
Disclosed is an image recording apparatus capable of preventing maloperations when entering into sleep mode. The image recording apparatus comprises a display module, a detecting unit, a power supply unit, a first switch, a second switch and a control unit having an interrupt unit. The control unit controls the first switch in an on-state to supply power to the display module and the detecting unit and executes a corresponding operation. After an idle status of the image recording apparatus exceeds a predetermined time, the control unit disables the interrupt unit and controls the second switch in an on-state and the first switch in an off-state to supply power to the detecting unit via the second switch. After a default time, the control unit enables the interrupt unit, therefore, maloperations when entering into the sleep mode can be prevented.
US08154650B2 Electronic device having a camera flash redirector
An electronic camera device has an imaging sensor to capture an image of a scene, a flash to illuminate the scene for capture by the sensor, and an evaluator to detect a condition in the scene. A redirector shifts the peak of a spatial energy profile of light from the flash. The peak is shifted from being aimed at one region in the scene to being aimed at another region in the scene, in response to the evaluator having detected the condition in the scene. Other embodiments are also described and claimed.
US08154648B2 Zoom lens system and image pickup apparatus using the same
A zoom lens system includes in order from an object side, a first lens unit having a negative refracting power, a second lens unit having a positive refracting power, a third lens unit having a positive refracting power, and a fourth lens unit having a negative refracting power. At the time of zooming from a wide angle end to a telephoto end, the second lens unit moves such that a distance between the first lens unit and the second lens unit decreases, and distances between the other lens units change. The first lens unit includes in order from the object side, one negative lens component having an aspheric surface at least on one surface, and one positive lens component, the fourth lens unit includes one negative lens component having a surface on the object side as a concave surface, and satisfies the following conditional expression (1) −4<(R4a+R4b)/(R4a−R4b)<−0.5  (1).
US08154640B2 Sub-pixels, unit pixels, image sensors and methods of operating the same
An image sensor includes a plurality of unit pixels arranged in an array. Each unit pixel includes a plurality of sub-pixels configured to be irradiated by light having the same wavelength. Each sub-pixel includes a plurality of floating body transistors. Each floating body transistor includes a source region, a drain region, a floating body region between the source region and the drain region, and a gate electrode formed on the floating body region.
US08154638B2 Solid-state image pickup apparatus
A frequency converting unit 101 includes a connection circuit for connecting a plurality of inverting circuits through which a delay time between an input signal and an output signal is changed according to a magnitude of the signal output by the image pickup unit, and one or a plurality of switch elements which are connected between an output terminal of the inverting circuit and an input terminal of another inverting circuit not adjacent to the inverting circuit, and generates a clock signal having a frequency according to the connection circuit. The control unit 20 controls the switch elements included in the frequency converting unit 101 to open and close. The count unit 103 counts the clock signal generated by the frequency converting unit.
US08154628B2 Image processing apparatus and imaging apparatus and method
An image processing apparatus (5) that corrects an input image signal (Xin) pixel by pixel to generate a corrected image signal (Xout), having a filtering means (2) that determines a luminance distribution of a pixel to be corrected and pixels neighboring the pixel to be corrected, a correction gain calculation means (3) that determines the correction gain of the pixel to be corrected, and an operation means (4) that uses the correction gain determined by the correction gain calculation means to perform an operation on the input image signal pixel by pixel. With this simple configuration, the dynamic range of the input image can be appropriately improved.
US08154627B2 Imaging device
To improve sensitivity by adding pixels, and improve precision of pixel interpolation in an imaging device.An imaging device is provided in which pixels are added along a horizontal direction or a vertical direction to improve sensitivity of an imaging element. An R pixel signal, a G pixel signal, and a B pixel signal in which pixels are added, for example, along the vertical direction are output from a CCD (12). A CFA interpolation unit (24) interpolates the G pixel signal using an adjacent pixel along the horizontal direction. The CFA interpolation unit (24) also interpolates the R pixel signal and the B pixel signal along the horizontal direction using an adjacent pixel along the horizontal direction and interpolates along the vertical direction using correlation of the interpolated G pixel.
US08154625B2 Camera with multiple viewfinders
A novel method and apparatus for controlling the display of a portable electronic device having a user input device and a camera function; the portable electronic device including a photosensor chip having a sensor array of a predetermined number of rows and columns of pixels for converting radiant energy into electronic signals representing an image for display via a viewfinder. The method comprises selecting via the user input a zoom level and viewfinder resolution for the camera application, and in the event the zoom level is 1× then scaling the predetermined number of rows and columns of pixels to the selected viewfinder resolution and generating an image corresponding thereto; and in the event the zoom level is greater than 1× then cropping a region of interest of the predetermined number of rows and columns of pixels in accordance with the zoom level and then scaling the cropped region of interest in accordance with the viewfinder resolution and generating an image corresponding thereto.
US08154624B2 Image pickup apparatus and control method thereof
An image pickup apparatus that has an optical zooming unit and an electronic zooming unit includes a temperature detector configured to detect a temperature of the image pickup apparatus, and a controller configured to move the electronic zooming unit along with an operation of the optical zooming unit, and to move a telephoto end for control of the optical zooming unit toward a wide-angle side according to the temperature detected by the temperature detector. Along with control to move the telephoto end of the optical zooming unit to the wide-angle end, the controller sets smaller than a change rate of a zoom magnification of an electronic zooming unit in a first zoom region a change rate of a zoom magnification of an electronic zooming unit in a second zoom region that is adjacent with and closer to the telephoto end than the first zoom region.
US08154623B2 Image pickup apparatus and control method thereof
An image pickup apparatus that includes an optical zooming unit, an electronic zooming unit, and a controller, wherein when the optical zooming unit moves from a first zoom region to a second zoom region that is closer to a wide-angle end than the first zoom region, the controller discretely moves the electronic zooming unit along with the operation of the optical zooming unit at the first change rate, and when the optical zooming unit moves from the first zoom region to a third zoom region that is closer to a telephoto end than the first zoom region, the controller discretely operates the electronic zooming unit along with the operation of the optical zooming unit at the second change rate.
US08154622B2 Content recording apparatus in which attribute information is suppressed according to operation mode
A content recording apparatus (10) includes an image sensor (12). When a shutter operation is performed, an image imaged by the image sensor is captured in an SDRAM (26), and the captured image is recorded in a memory card (28). The recorded image is transmitted to a recorder (40) being host equipment through a USB controller (30) when a USB transfer mode is selected, and an imaging transfer mode as a subordinate mode is turned off. That is, the CPU prohibits a capturing operation, and registers all the attribute information of the recorded image in a management table (26t), and the recorder performs an image acquiring operation referring to the management table. When the imaging transfer mode is turned on, the CPU skips registration of all the attribute information to allow a capturing operation. When the image is captured, the CPU registers only the attribute information of the image in the management table and sends an image acquiring request to the recorder.
US08154616B2 Data processing apparatus and method, and recording medium
A data processing apparatus acquires images captured by cameras. A data processing apparatus 2 calculates relative positional relationship between the camera that captured an image and a camera that is captured in the captured image, by image recognition of the captured image. The data processing apparatus 2 aggregates positional relationships calculated for the captured images, respectively, and by having one camera as reference, calculates the relative positions and directions of other cameras. Based on the calculated results, a user interface for supporting selection of the captured image by a user is generated.
US08154614B2 Image playback device and method and electronic camera with image playback function
An image playback device, which may be part of an electronic camera, reads out recorded information that has been recorded on a recording medium. A time period discriminator receives the recorded information read out by the image playback device and discriminates periods of time during which recorded information agrees with certain pre-set conditions. Moving-picture image information contained in the recorded information is played back and displayed in accordance with results of the discrimination.
US08154613B2 Signal processing apparatus and method for reducing jaggedness on color image edge and image sensing apparatus having same
In a signal processing apparatus for processing an image signal, a hue difference between adjoining pixels is detected by a color image edge detector, and an aperture control main gain circuit amplifies a luminance signal using a gain determined on the basis of the hue difference detected by the color image edge detector to enhance an edge pixel of an image.
US08154609B2 Information processing apparatus and information processing method as well as program
An information processing apparatus and method is disclosed wherein setting data to be used in image pickup can be set precisely to perform desired image pickup. The information processing apparatus may include a recording control section configured to control recording of image data obtained by image pickup and setting data used in the image pickup, and a reproduction section configured to reproduce the setting data. The information processing apparatus may further include an acceptance section configured to accept a variation amount to a value corresponding to the setting data inputted by a user, and a variation section configured to vary the setting data reproduced by the reproduction section based on the variation amount accepted by the acceptance section. The recording control section may control recording of the setting data varied by the variation section. The invention can be applied typically to a personal computer.
US08154608B2 Digital camera security
An image capture device, includes a body; an image sensor in the body; a lens configured to focus a scene onto the image sensor; a communications interface in the body; an image processor coupled to receive device information from an external device; a controller coupled to the communications interface and configured to control operations of the digital camera; and executable code embodied in a computer readable medium and configured to cause the controller to configure operational parameters of the digital camera based on information received from the external device. Examples of operational parameters that can be configured include locking and unlocking of the image capture device, encryption or other encoding of captured images, and device settings and configuration.
US08154597B2 On-vehicle emergency call apparatus
An on-vehicle emergency call apparatus includes: a camera capturing an image of an interior of a vehicle; a capturing controller controlling the camera; and a transmitter transmitting an image capturing result obtained by the capturing camera to an emergency information center. The capturing controller controls the camera so as to capture images while switching alternately between an instant capturing shutter speed for capturing an instant image of a subject and a translocation capturing shutter speed for capturing a translocation image of the subject, in which instant capturing shutter speed and the translocation capturing shutter speed are different from each other. An image superimposer can superimpose the instant image and the translocation image to produce the image capturing result. An incident detector can detect an incident involving the vehicle whereupon the image superimposer superimposes the instant image and the translocation image to produce the image capturing result when the incident detector detects an incident involving the vehicle.
US08154589B2 Medical operation system for verifying and analyzing a medical operation
A medical operation system includes a controller for controlling a plurality of medical equipments, a communication unit for transmitting and receiving data between each of the plurality of medical equipments and the controller in two-way communications, an information recorder which records, together with time information, information regarding the plurality of medical equipments transmitted and received by the communication unit, a signal processor which extracts predetermined information from the information recorded on the information recorder and processes the predetermined information to generate time-series data, and a display output unit for visualizing the time-series data output from the signal processor and outputting the visualized time-series data to a display.
US08154585B2 Processing multiview video
Decoding a multiview video signal comprises: receiving a bitstream comprising encodings of multiple views of the multiview video signal. Each view comprises multiple pictures segmented into multiple segments. The decoding also comprises extracting flag information associated with a portion of the multiview video signal from the bitstream indicating whether illumination compensation of segments within said portion of the multiview video signal is enabled. For a portion in which illumination compensation is enabled according to the extracted flag information, a value associated with a segment within the portion is extracted from the bitstream and it is determined from said extracted value whether illumination compensation of the segment is to be performed.
US08154583B2 Eye gazing imaging for video communications
Video communication systems and methods for communicating between an individual in a local environment, and a remote viewer in a remote environment are provided. The system has an image display device; at least one image capture device which acquires video images for fields of view of a local environment, and any individuals therein; an audio system having an audio emission device and an audio capture device; a computer, which includes a contextual interface having a gaze adapting process, and image processor; and a communication controller which transmits and receives video images of the local environment and the remote environment, and data regarding video scene characteristics thereof across a network between the local environment and the remote environment; wherein the gaze adapting process identifies video scene characteristics of the local environment indicative of eye gaze image capture and altering the video images when the characteristics are indicative.
US08154570B2 Arrangement with a mobile data carrier and a hand-held device
An arrangement (1) with a mobile data carrier (2) and a handheld device (4) displays driving periods, rest periods and other types of activity recorded by a tachograph and evaluated by the hand-held device (4). The hand-held device has an evaluation unit (11), a display unit (6) and an input unit. In order to minimize the outlay necessary for evaluating the periods of time, the recording data (20) stored in digital form in a memory of the mobile data carrier (2) designed as a data card (3) can be transmitted via a data transmission interface (17), to computers or notebooks in the transport company or in the vehicle of the control units, and the evaluation unit (11) determines and evaluates the driving periods and/or rest periods and/or the period of time spent in other types of activity.
US08154565B2 Apparatus and method for gamma correction
Apparatus and method for gamma correction are disclosed. An adjustable blending unit is utilized for adjustably blending a linear gamma function with a nonlinear gamma function, thereby resulting in an adjustable gamma curve. The nonlinear gamma function is adjustable by a blending parameter such that distance of the gamma curve to linear gamma curve may be changed.
US08154557B2 Flat-panel display device
According to an embodiment of the invention, even if a sample-and-hold circuit samples a signal from a signal processor to a display unit, an image quality reduction is hard to occur. According to an embodiment of the invention, there is provided a flat-panel display device includes a phase control circuit setting a state that a first parallel arrangement RGB pixel signal shifts by 120 degrees, a sample-and-hold circuit sampling a second parallel arrangement RGB pixel signal parallel-output from the phase control circuit to obtain a series arrangement RGB pixel signal, which is three times as much as a single pixel signal, and a driver supplying the series arrangement RGB pixel signal to the corresponding display pixel.
US08154555B2 Memory address re-mapping of graphics data
A method and apparatus for creating, updating, and using guest physical address (GPA) to host physical address (HPA) shadow translation tables for translating GPAs of graphics data direct memory access (DMA) requests of a computing environment implementing a virtual machine monitor to support virtual machines. The requests may be sent through a render or display path of the computing environment from one or more virtual machines, transparently with respect to the virtual machine monitor. The creating, updating, and using may be performed by a memory controller detecting entries sent to existing global and page directory tables, forking off shadow table entries from the detected entries, and translating GPAs to HPAs for the shadow table entries.
US08154552B2 Looping motion space registration for real-time character animation
A method for generating a looping motion space for real-time character animation may include determining a plurality of motion clips to include in the looping motion space and determining a number of motion cycles performed by a character object depicted in each of the plurality of motion clips. A plurality of looping motion clips may be synthesized from the motion clips, where each of the looping motion clips depicts the character object performing an equal number of motion cycles. Additionally, a starting frame of each of the plurality of looping motion clips may be synchronized so that the motion cycles in each of the plurality of looping motion clips are in phase with one another. By rendering an animation sequence using multiple passes through the looping motion space, an animation of the character object performing the motion cycles may be extended for arbitrary length of time.
US08154550B2 Waveform display device and waveform display method
The invention aims to implement a waveform display device capable of visibly displaying a comparison waveform in an arbitrary range and a waveform display method. The waveform display device for executing waveform display of waveform data on a display section comprises an input section for inputting at least two data ranges of the waveform data, and comparison waveform display means for executing waveform display of the waveform data while overlaid on one another on the display section based on at least two data ranges inputted by the input section.
US08154542B2 Plasma display device and plasma-display-panel driving method
In a plasma-display-panel driving method, a field period is divided into a plurality of sub fields, each of which has an address period for allowing discharge cells to selectively generate an address discharge and a sustain period for allowing the discharge cells having generated the address discharge to generate a sustain discharge by a number of times corresponding to a brightness weight. In the sustain period, a period for setting display electrode pairs to the base potential is disposed between the sustain pulse for causing the final sustain discharge in the sustain period and the previous sustain pulse. In a time interval corresponding to the lighting ratio of the discharge cells in the sub field after applying to the display electrode pairs a voltage for generating the final sustain discharge, a voltage for reducing the potential difference between electrodes of the display electrode pairs is applied to the display electrode pairs. Accordingly, it is possible to generate a stable address discharge and thus to reduce a crosstalk without increasing the voltage for generating the address discharge.
US08154524B2 Physics simulation-based interaction for surface computing
The claimed subject matter provides a system and/or a method that facilitates enhancing interactive surface technologies for data manipulation. A surface detection component can employ a multiple contact surfacing technology to detect a surface input, wherein the detected surface input enables a physical interaction with a portion of displayed data that represents a corporeal object. A physics engine can integrate a portion of Newtonian physics into the interaction with the portion of displayed data in order to model at least one quantity related associated with the corporeal object, the quantity is at least one of a force, a mass, a velocity, or a friction.
US08154521B2 Mobile terminal
A mobile terminal having a terminal body and a keypad located on the terminal body is provided. The keypad includes a plurality of keys configured to input information, a plurality of light emitting units, each light emitting unit being associated with a corresponding key of the plurality of keys to separately illuminate the corresponding key, a shielding member to reduce leakage of light from an activated light emitting unit to adjacent keys, and a control unit configured to detect when one of the plurality of keys is operated and to activate at least the light emitting unit associated with the operated key.
US08154520B2 Handheld electronic communication device transitionable between compact and expanded configurations
A handheld electronic communication device is disclosed that is transitionable between at least a compact configuration and expanded configuration. The handheld electronic communication device includes a display panel pivotally interconnected to a keyboard panel. The display panel can be overlaid on, and in substantial registration with, the keyboard panel in a compact configuration. Furthermore, the display panel can be offset above the keyboard panel in an expanded configuration. A pivot connection can be configured to couple and maintain the keyboard and display panels in substantial parallel orientation to each other in the compact and expanded configurations. The pivot connection includes an axis of rotation and is located in an upper corner of the handheld electronic communication device in the compact configuration. Additionally, a trackball navigation tool assembly is located at the upper corner of the handheld electronic communication device where the axis of rotation is located.
US08154519B2 Ergonomic hand-held computer input and control device
A hand-held computer input and control device designed to be held in the palm of a relaxed free floating hand, wherein the device is balanced for use with the user's thumb, 1st and/or 2nd fingers. In one exemplary embodiment, a hand held structure having general radial symmetry, for use in multi-button three dimensional computer control applications, consisting of a mushroom like head with multiple buttons placed such that the thumb, first, or second fingers can easily control them, and a separate cylindrical body with two grooves and optional buttons positioned for grasping by the third and fourth fingers is provided.
US08154516B2 Multi-function wheel mouse with two scroll wheels
A wheel mouse includes a first scroll wheel, a second scroll wheel, a first encoder, a second encoder and a control unit. The first encoder generates a first rotation signal according to the rotating condition of the first scroll wheel. The second encoder generates a second rotation signal according to the rotating condition of the second scroll wheel. The control unit is electrically connected to the first encoder and the second encoder for executing a corresponding function in response to the first rotation signal and the second rotation signal. The control unit executes a first function when only the first rotation signal is generated. The control unit executes a second function when only the second rotation signal is generated. The control unit executes a third function when the first rotation signal and the second rotation signal are simultaneously generated.
US08154512B2 Products and processes for providing haptic feedback in resistive interface devices
Products and processes for providing haptic feedback in a user interface are disclosed. One exemplary embodiment of an apparatus comprises a first element comprising a first surface, a second element comprising a second surface, and an actuator configured vary a force between the first and second surfaces. In one embodiment, the second element may be configured to be displaced relative to first element in a degree of freedom. In another embodiment, at least one of the first surface and the second surface may comprise a thermoplastic polymer.
US08154502B2 Display apparatus having reduced kickback voltage
A display apparatus includes; a display panel including a plurality of data lines which receive a data signal, a plurality of gate lines which receive a gate signal and a plurality of pixels, a data driving circuit which provides the data liens with the data signal, and a gate driving circuit which sequentially applies the gate signal to the plurality of gate lines, wherein an area between an ith gate line and an (i+1)th gate line is divided into a plurality of areas by the plurality of data lines, and wherein each area includes first and second pixel areas which are aligned in an extension direction of the data lines, and the first pixel area and the second pixel area are provided with a first pixel connected to the ith gate line and a second pixel connected to the (i+1)th gate line, respectively.
US08154496B2 Liquid crystal display drive circuit
This invention offers an LCD drive circuit that prevents conversion to a wrong duty driving state and an unintended display caused by taking in of serial data corresponding to the wrong duty driving state. The LCD drive circuit is provided with an LCD drive signal generation circuit that generates driving signals to turn LCD segments on and off based on serial data received by a serial data receiving circuit and is switchable between a ¼ duty driving state and a ⅓ duty driving state. The LCD drive circuit is also provided with a driving state setting circuit that sets the LCD drive signal generation circuit to the ¼ duty driving state based on identification data when the serial data receiving circuit receives the serial data corresponding to the ¼ duty driving state and thereafter forbids the LCD drive signal generation circuit to take in serial data corresponding to the ⅓ duty driving state when the serial data receiving circuit receives the serial data corresponding to the ⅓ duty driving state.
US08154484B2 Organic light emitting display and driving method thereof with reduced power consumption
An organic light emitting display and a driving method thereof capable of reducing power consumption. A driving transistor controls a current through an organic light emitting diode of the display. A voltage controller supplies a first voltage to the anode of the OLED of at least one specific pixel and controls the cathode voltage of the OLED in correspondence to a second current through the OLED, such that the cathode voltage corresponds to the first voltage supplied to the OLED. Thus, the driving transistor can be driven in saturation mode with consistent current in spite of process variations, with a reduced power consumption.
US08154482B2 Organic light emitting display and method for driving the same
An organic light emitting display and a method for driving the same. An organic light emitting display includes: a frame memory having a first portion configured to store a first portion of image signals that is the same in an n−1th frame and an nth frame, and a second portion configured to store a second portion of the image signals that is different in the n−1th frame and the nth frame; a storing unit for storing the first portion of the image signals; a luminance controller for summing the second portion of the image signals and the first portion of the image signals stored in the storing unit to generate a frame data; and a scan driver for supplying light emitting control signals with a controlled pulse width according to a magnitude of the frame data.
US08154475B2 Plasma display and driving method thereof
The present invention relates to a plasma display device and a driving method thereof. The plasma display device includes a first switch, and a second switch. The first switch has a first end electrically connected to a first power source that supplies a first voltage and a second end electrically connected to the plurality of first electrodes, and gradually increases a voltage of the plurality of first electrodes during a reset period. The second switch has a first end electrically connected to a second power source that supplies a second voltage that is less than the first voltage and a second end electrically connected to the plurality of first electrodes. The first and second switches are simultaneously turned on in the reset period.
US08154469B2 Radio frequency (RF) transition design for a phased array antenna system utilizing a beam forming network
In accordance with an embodiment, a radio frequency transition system includes a stripline trace section with openings in ground planes and forms a quarter wavelength resonator and an electromagnetic mechanism to couple the RF energy from the stripline trace section to a connector, wherein the RF signal energy is transferred from inside a beam forming network printed wiring board to an a back side of a phased array antenna system with minimal RF losses. An RF transition system is disclosed. The RF transition system comprises a stripline trace section with openings in ground planes and forms a quarter-wavelength resonator. The RF transition system further includes an electromagnetic mechanism to couple the RF energy from the stripline trace section to a connector. The RF signal energy is transferred from inside a beam forming network printed wiring board to an a back side of a phased array antenna system with minimal RF losses.
US08154463B2 Multilevel antennae
An apparatus including a wireless communications device has an internal antenna system located within the wireless communications device. The internal antenna system includes a passive antenna set comprising at least one antenna element having at least one multilevel structure, a feeding point to the at least one antenna element and a ground plane. The feeding point and a point on the ground plane define an input/output port for said passive antenna set. The passive antenna set provides a similar impedance level and radiation pattern at two or more frequency bands such that the passive antenna set is capable of both transmitting and receiving wireless signals on selected channels. The selected channels are selectable from a plurality of channels throughout an entire frequency range within each of said two or more frequency bands.
US08154455B2 Mobile communications systems and methods relating to polarization-agile antennas
A wireless communication system can include polarization agile antennas to enable adaptation to the polarization characteristics of a changing propagation channel. In one embodiment, a mobile terminal can include one or more polarization-agile antennas, and can select polarization orientations that are preferentially propagated through the changing propagation channel. In another embodiment, a mobile terminal having two polarization-agile antennas can provide spatial diversity, polarization diversity, or combinations of both. Multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems can include polarization-agile antennas to allow for switching between spatial and polarization diversity, combined spatial and polarization diversity, and various Eigen channel decompositions using spatial, polarization, and combined spatial and polarization dimensions. An extended polar normalization provides enhanced fidelity for methods of communications system modeling.
US08154453B2 Positioning method, program thereof, and positioning device
A positioning method includes: executing a first correlation accumulation process on a received signal, a positioning signal spread-modulated with a spread code, and a replica code of the spread code while shifting a phase of the replica code in a first phase search range, setting a second phase search range narrower than the first range based on an accumulated correlation value at a first timing in the first correlation accumulation process, executing a second correlation accumulation process on the received signal and the replica code while shifting the phase of the replica code in the second phase search range, determining appropriateness of the second phase search range based on the accumulated correlation value at the first timing and an accumulated correlation value at a second timing in the first correlation accumulation process, and positioning using a result of the second correlation accumulation process, if the second phase search range is determined appropriate.
US08154450B2 Optimization for finding direction of arrival in smart antennas
A smart antenna system may exploit space diversity by employing an array of antennas whose radiation pattern can be aligned in a direction of arrival (DoA) of a specific signal to be decoded. Smart antennas can be installed on a base station side and/or on a user terminal side. Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide methods for computationally efficient and accurate searching of the DoA of a specific transmitted signal. The proposed methods utilize Assisted Global Positioning System (A-GPS) coordinates to determine the DoA.
US08154444B1 Emergency beacon with encoded warning
A personal locator beacon (PLB) that is used to transmit a radio frequency emergency distress signal. The PLB contains a GPS receiver to determine the exact global positioning coordinates of the beacon. The transmitted distress signal contains a security message that is represented through at least one bit. This bit is embedded into the standard bit string that is transmitted and can warn of impending danger at the beacon location, such as a hostage situation. The beacon is triggered through different varieties of user interfaces that utilize assorted combinations of actuators and numeric keypads. Another bit can also be embedded into the standard bit stream to represent whether or not the beacon is used by the military.
US08154443B2 Method and system for GNSS coexistence
A system and method for operating a wireless transmitter and a global navigation satellite (“GNSS”) receiver coexistent in a mobile wireless device. A mobile wireless device includes a GNSS receiver and a wireless networking system. The wireless networking system includes a wireless transmitter. The wireless transmitter provides a first interference level signal to the GNSS receiver. The first interference level signal indicates a level of interference that the GNSS receiver can expect due to operation of the transmitter.
US08154442B2 Method and apparatus for navigation systems
The invention relates to navigation systems and elements. A network element (M) includes a controlling element (M.1) for forming assistance data relating to one or more reference stations (S1, S2) of at least one navigation system; and a transmitter (M.3.1) for transmitting the assistance data via a communications network (P) to a device (R). The device (R) includes a positioning receiver (R.3) for performing positioning on the basis of one or more signals transmitted by reference stations (S1, S2) of the at least one satellite navigation system; a receiver (R.2.2) for receiving the assistance data relating to at least one navigation system from the network element (M); and an examining element (R.1.1) adapted to examine the received assistance data to find out information relating to the status of the one or more signals of the reference stations (S1, S2) including indication on the reference station (S1, S2) the signal relates to, and the status indicating the usability of the signal. Therefore, the device (R) is adapted not to use in the positioning such a signal which is indicated not to be usable.
US08154439B2 Sub-millimeter wave imaging system
A system for detecting the amplitude of radio frequency energy includes: an antenna for receiving the radio frequency energy; a modulator, responsive to a reference frequency signal, for pulse modulating the received radio frequency energy at the reference frequency; a detector for converting such pulse modulated signal to a detector output signal having a low frequency component representative of the amplitude of the received radio frequency energy, in summation with DC bias current, and a high frequency component at the reference signal; and a high pass or band pass filter fed for the detector output signal for passing the high frequency components and for removing the low frequency component. A phase detector, with or without a subsequent IF amplifier, is fed by the reference frequency and the high frequency components for producing an output representative of the high frequency components. A low noise amplifier is fed by the antenna and has a bias fed by the reference frequency signal for modulating the received radio frequency energy at the reference frequency.
US08154438B1 Registration of latitude/longitude coordinates using range detection sensors and digital nautical charts
The present invention can find the exact location anywhere in the nautical world (latitude/longitude coordinates) by correlating or matching radar returns with maps produced by a digital nautical chart called a Chart Server, because each pixel location on the Chart Server maps can be traced back to a latitude/longitude coordinate. An obstacle avoidance module called a Chart Server provides digital nautical charts to create a map of the world. To determine the current world location of a vehicle, the invention combines the Chart Server maps with a radar return, which also appears to display prominent features such as coastlines, buoys, piers and the like. These return features from the radar are correlated or matched with features found in the Chart Server maps. The radar then reports its current location inside of its local map, which when translated to the Chart Server map, correlates to a latitude/longitude registration location.
US08154434B2 Pipelined A/D converter
Multiple stages sequentially convert respective input analog signals to partial digital data. Each stage includes: a partial A/D converter; a partial D/A converter; an adder that adds/subtracts the analog signal from the previous stage and an output from the partial D/A converter; and a gain amplifier that amplifies an output of the adder and supplies to the next stage. The pipelined A/D converter further includes: a correction value adding unit that adds a correction value to the output from the decoder unit; a correction value calculating unit that, based on the output from the correction value adding unit, calculates an error between the median of the output data and an ideal median at two points in the stage input/output characteristics, saves the calculated value as the correction value and supplies it to the correction value adding unit; and a control unit that controls the above units so as to perform the correction operation. Thereby, aliasing at decoding of the stage output is prevented, enabling an output range to be used effectively.
US08154432B2 Digital to analog converter (DAC) having high dynamic range
A system having: a digital pre-distortion circuit fed by a digital signal for distorting the digital signal; a digital to analog converter (DAC) core section coupled to an output of the calibration circuit for converting the distorted digital signal into a corresponding analog signal, the DAC core section performing the conversion in accordance with a control signal fed to the DAC core section; a power amplifier (PA) section coupled to an output of the DAC core section for amplifying power in the analog signal; and a calibration circuit coupled to the output of the power amplifier for producing, in response to the power in the power amplified analog signal, the control signal for the DAC core section.
US08154428B2 Gesture recognition control of electronic devices using a multi-touch device
Controlling external electronic devices using presence recognition through a multi-touch device is provided. An indication of the presence of at least one of an object or a gesture on a surface of the multi-touch device is received. A plurality of characteristics associated with the object or gesture are identified. Using the plurality of physical characteristics, a data structure is searched to determine the existence of a single object or a single gesture with characteristics that matches the plurality of characteristics. Responsive to a match, a determination is made as to whether the single object or the single gesture has an associated function. Responsive to the existence of the associated function, the associated function is executed on one of a plurality of external electronic devices.
US08154425B2 Devices, systems and methods for reinforcing a traffic control assembly
Devices, systems, and methods for reinforcing a traffic control assembly are provided. In some embodiments, a retrofitted traffic control assembly configured to reinforce a traffic signal assembly in high wind conditions is provided, where the assembly includes a clamping assembly having clamping members that at least partially surround an existing traffic signal disconnect hanger, and bar members positioned substantially perpendicular to the clamping members. In certain embodiments, stiffening members may be placed in, on, or adjacent to a traffic signal and/or a traffic signal disconnect hanger to further reinforce the traffic signal assembly. Also provided are connection assemblies for reinforcing the portion of a traffic control assembly positioned between a traffic signal disconnect hanger and an upper span wire, for example.
US08154424B2 Sequenced vehicular traffic guiding system
A system of signal emitting modules is disclosed. The modules emit light or other signals to warn oncoming traffic that a road or other pathway has changed or is traversing a tortuous pathway. The modules are interconnected in a sequence so that they flash on and off in a pattern that leads the driver or observer along a path with less confusion than with randomly flashing or steady lights or reflectors. The modules are self-powered and can be arrayed first and programmed following deployment. The programming can be done with “mesh” technology, an external controller, or by dialing a specific number in each of a plurality of distributed controllers. The modules can improve highway safety by reducing driver confusion. The modules are arrayed to prevent a driver from seeing them from an oncoming direction. The driver coming from the opposite direction will have his or her own guiding system. The modules can also be deployed for use in nautical situations, to designate nautical obstructions (such as entering a harbor), shallow water, or other area of danger, and in the field of aviation to mark the direction and position of temporary runways or landing zones for both fixed wing and rotary wing aircraft.
US08154421B2 Real time temperature and location tracker
A shipper having an outer housing with a temperature sensitive payload and a temperature/location tracker disposed therein. The outer housing has a body having an interior surface bounding a compartment that is accessed through an opening. A first panel is coupled with the body and configured to extend over at least a portion of the opening, with a first access port extending through the first panel. The payload and temperature/location tracker are disposed within the compartment of the body. The temperature/location tracker includes a first temperature probe, a GPS receiver, a cellular modem, and a GPS antenna. The GPS antenna is disposed so as to be aligned with the first access port when the shipper is in a fully assembled state such that the GPS antenna is directly accessible through the first access port. The temperature/location tracker monitors and periodically transmits temperature and location values of the shipper over a cellular communication network.
US08154417B2 Compact self-contained condition monitoring device
The present invention provides a new and unique method and apparatus for monitoring a device, such as a pump. The device may also include a fan, compressor, turbine or other rotating or reciprocating piece of machinery. In one embodiment, the method features sensing in a first device both a start-up vibration at a start-up time after the first device is affixed to a second device to be monitored and a subsequent vibration level at a subsequent time after the start-up time, and providing both a start-up vibration level signal containing information about the start-up vibration level of the second device, and a subsequent vibration level signal containing information about the subsequent vibration level of the second device; and monitoring in the first device the condition of operation of the second device based on a comparison of the start-up vibration level signal in relation to the subsequent vibration level signal. The apparatus may take the form of one or more modules and/or chipset for performing the steps and functionality of the aforementioned method.
US08154415B2 Detector
A detector comprises a detector base (1) and first and second detector elements (2 & 3) each having a respective electronic interface (2a, 3a). The detector base (1) has electronic interfaces (1a) to the electronic interface (2a, 3a) of each of the detector elements (2, 3), wherein at least one of the detector elements is constructed as a replaceable module (11).
US08154408B2 Methods and systems for identifying stacked sets and locating and tracking stacked sets
One embodiment of the present invention is a method for determining when a set of RFID tags on a set of stacked objects belongs to a same defined subset of stacked objects (“set identification”). This method includes the steps of: (1) detecting the set of RFID tags on the set of stacked objects, said RFID tags comprising integrated devices capable of sending signals that can be received by a receptor device and interpreted to determine a motion state of each RFID tag and stacked object; (2) receiving said signals from the set of RFID tags; (3) interpreting said signals to determine the motion state of each RFID tag and stacked object within the set, wherein said signals indicate whether the motion state of each RFID tag and object is in a state of stationary, starting in motion, stopping in motion, or continuing in motion; (4) determining which RFID tags and objects are in a same motion state within a predetermined time of each other; and (5) identifying the RFID tags that are in the same motion state, within the predetermined time, as belonging to the same defined subset of stacked objects, wherein said motion state is used to determine when said set of stacked objects forms a new stack.
US08154385B2 Local processing of received RFID tag responses
Radio frequency identification (RFID) tags selected for inventorying using combination of preselect and/or post select criteria. The selection commands can be for selecting according to a tag memory content, by invoking the mask address or by comparing other tag characteristics. Selection criteria can be determined locally at a modem block of a reader or provided to the modem block by higher layers of the reader. Tags meeting the selection criteria are reported to the higher layers for further actions. Some tags may be held while waiting for instructions from the higher layer block(s).
US08154378B2 Thermal actuator for a MEMS-based relay switch
A representative embodiment of the invention provides a thermal actuator for a MEMS-based relay switch. The thermal actuator has an “active” arm that is movably mounted on a substrate. The “active” arm has (i) a thermal expansion layer and (ii) a resistive heater that is electrically isolated from the thermal expansion layer. The thermal expansion layer is adapted to expand in response to a temperature change induced by a control current flowing through the resistive heater, thereby bending the “active” arm and moving that arm with respect to the substrate. Due to the fact that mechanical and electrical characteristics of the “active” arm are primarily controlled by the thermal expansion layer and the resistive heater, respectively, those characteristics can be optimized independently to obtain better operating characteristics for MEMS-based relay switches of the invention compared to those attained in the prior art.
US08154373B2 Circuit breaker-like apparatus with combination current transformer
In a circuit breaker, a current transformer for fault powering trip unit electronics and sensing low currents and high currents includes a core with solid laminations and gapped laminations to sense a wide range of currents from locked-rotor currents to high, instantaneous short-circuit currents in a single current transformer. The current transformer can also fault power trip unit electronics without requiring an additional current transformer. The operating range of the circuit breaker is significantly enhanced compared to existing breakers that can sense only a limited range of current levels.
US08154369B2 Method and device for controlling of a magnetic flux
A device for controlling a magnetic flux in an electromagnetic system, wherein the system includes magnetically connected magnetic cores, between which a volume is arranged. The volume includes a controllable magnetic flux region and the magnetic flux region includes a magnetic material having a relative permeability that may be varied by influencing the temperature of the material. The magnetic material includes a magnetic material, the Curie point of which lies within the temperature operating range of the device and exhibits paramagnetic properties within the temperature range. Also a method of controlling a magnetic flux.
US08154366B2 Device mounted contactor
Provided is a device mounted contactor and a method of reducing continuous charge distribution, especially in a vehicle. The contactor includes a housing, and a plurality of power terminals. The device may further include a conductance shield and support structure extending from the housing. Situated at least partially in the housing is a switch, which is capable of electrically coupling at least two of the plurality of power terminals. One or more electrically insulative covers may be provided. The contactor may also provide a fused accessory terminal, which is electrically coupled to one of the power terminals through a fuse. A method according to the present invention reduces continuous electrical charge distribution in an electrical circuit by mechanically attaching a first contactor power terminal to a battery terminal and electrically coupling a second contactor power terminal to a circuit, which may include a vehicle starter.
US08154360B2 Resin multilayer device and method for manufacturing same
Provided is a resin multilayer device having a balun, wherein the resin multilayer device comprises: a substrate; a first resin layer formed on the substrate; two balanced signal transmission lines that are electrically independently disposed on the first resin layer; a second resin layer formed on the two balanced signal transmission lines and the first resin layer; an unbalanced signal transmission line disposed on the second resin layer and facing the two balanced signal transmission lines; and a third resin layer formed on the unbalanced signal transmission line and the second resin layer.
US08154344B2 RF power amplifier
A reduction is achieved in the primary-side input impedance of a transformer (voltage transformer) as an output matching circuit without involving a reduction in Q-factor. An RF power amplifier includes transistors, and a transformer as the output matching circuit. The transformer has a primary coil and a secondary coil which are magnetically coupled to each other. To the input terminals of the transistors, respective input signals are supplied. The primary coil is coupled to each of the output terminals of the transistors. From the secondary coil, an output signal is generated. The primary coil includes a first coil and a second coil which are coupled in parallel between the respective output terminals of the transistors, and each magnetically coupled to the secondary coil. By the parallel coupling of the first and second coils of the primary coil, the input impedance of the primary coil is reduced.
US08154342B2 Power amplifier and processing device utilizing the same
A processing device including a control unit and a power amplifier is disclosed. The control unit generates a plurality of control signals according to an input signal. The power amplifier includes a plurality of switches. The control signals control the switches to turn on or off such that a short through current does not occur in the power amplifier.
US08154336B2 Method and apparatus for reducing interference
A method and apparatus is provided for reducing interference in circuits. A management strategy is provided to reduce reference spurs and interference in circuits. The management strategy uses a combination of one or more techniques which reduce the digital current, minimize mutual inductance, utilize field cancellation, prevent leakage current, and/or manage impedance. These techniques may be used alone, or preferably, used on combination with one another.
US08154330B2 Delay line calibration mechanism and related multi-clock signal generator
A delay line calibration mechanism includes a delay line, a phase detector, and a controller. The delay line receives an input pulse, a calibration pulse, a first delay selection signal, and a second delay selection signal, delays the input pulse for a delay period according to the first delay selection signal to output a delayed pulse, and delays the calibration pulse for a calibration delay period according to the second delay selection signal to output a delayed calibration pulse. The controller is for generating the input pulse, the calibration pulse, and a reference pulse. The controller also generates the first delay selection signal, and generates the second delay selection signal according to a phase difference signal. The phase detector is for generating the phase difference signal indicating the difference between the delayed calibration pulse and the reference pulse by comparing the delayed calibration pulse and the reference pulse.
US08154329B2 Device and method for phase compensation
A frequency generation unit is provided that permits a receiver to tune from channel to channel without cycle skipping and in which compensation for phase offset introduced during tuning is provided. The frequency generation unit includes a fractional-N synthesizer, a voltage controlled oscillator (VCO), and a direct digital synthesizer (DDS). The fractional-N synthesizer generates frequencies from the VCO as well as a temperature controlled crystal oscillator. Outputs from the fractional-N synthesizer are supplied both the VCO and the DDS to control the VCO and DDS. The combination of the voltage controlled oscillator and fractional-N synthesizer is perpetually locked. The fractional-N synthesizer is maintained in a locked condition. The VCO output is provided to the DDS. An output from the DDS or from the fractional-N synthesizer forms the output signal of the frequency generation unit.
US08154316B2 Method and apparatus for indexing an adjustable test probe tip
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to adjustable test probe tips that are indexable. In one embodiment a mechanism is coupled to a probe tip so that the mechanism may be used to index the probe tip to a plurality of particular positions. A label portion may be provided to communicate to a user that the length of the exposed probe tip is less than a particular length, such as the maximum length an exposed probe tip may be for a particular application.
US08154313B1 Water detection assembly for primary drain lines
A water detection assembly having an electronic fluid-sensing probe located in-line within a primary drain line associated with a fluid-producing unit via probe connection to an access port used for clearing and removing clog-causing debris from the primary drain line. The probe has no moving parts and quick-disconnect connection to a signal-generating unit. The access port is configured for vertical or horizontal installation and introduction of chemicals to clean the drain without retrograde backflow into the fluid-producing unit. The probe is inserted into the access port through a longitudinal opening when vertically installed, and alternatively through a lateral opening in a horizontal installation. When the probe detects fluid, the connected signal-generating unit sends an electronic signal that shuts off fluid production, activates an alarm or pump, and/or provides remote notification. One of the two power potentials in the electronic fluid-sensing probe needed for signal generation may have a circular configuration.
US08154310B1 Capacitance sensor with sensor capacitance compensation
A capacitance sensing circuit may include a capacitive sensor configured to conduct a sensor current, a current source for supplying a compensation current to the capacitive sensor, and a current mirror that generates a mirror current based on a compensated sensor current, where the compensated sensor current represents a difference between the compensation current and the sensor current. A measurement circuit generates an output signal corresponding to the capacitance of the capacitive sensor.
US08154305B2 Systems, methods, and apparatus for connection fault self-monitoring with DC bias current
Certain embodiments of the invention may include systems, methods, and apparatus for providing connection fault self-monitoring with DC bias current. According to an example embodiment of the invention, a method is provided for obtaining measurements and detecting connectivity faults associated with a voltage mode sensor. The method can include coupling a DC bias current into a circuit. The circuit includes a voltage mode sensor, and the voltage mode sensor can output a time varying signal. The method can also include setting a nominal level of the DC bias current, monitoring a voltage associated with the DC bias current, and determining circuit connectivity status based at least in part on monitoring the voltage.
US08154301B2 Method of testing substrate
Disclosed herein is a method of testing a substrate. In the method, a first test terminal is connected to a first external circuit layer coupled to a first connection pad of a first active element included in a substrate, and a second test terminal is connected to a second external circuit layer coupled to a second connection pad of the first active element. Static electricity is applied through the first test terminal and a voltage drop of an electrostatic discharge protection circuit of the first active element is measured at the second test terminal, thus testing a status of a connection between the first active element and the external circuit layers. In the method, status of a connection of a connection circuit layer, a connection of an external circuit layer, a connection of a surface mount element, and a normal operation of the substrate is further tested.
US08154298B2 Apparatus for detecting an electrical variable of a rechargeable battery, and method for producing said apparatus
An apparatus for detecting an electrical variable of a rechargeable battery and a method for producing said apparatus, has: a measuring element (1), a printed circuit board (4) and a contact element (5) having a first end (6) and a second end (7), wherein the first end (6) of the contact element (5) is electrically connected to the printed circuit board (4), and the second end (7) of the contact element (5) is electrically connected to the measuring element (1) by a welded joint.
US08154297B2 System and method for predictive maintenance of a battery assembly using temporal signal processing
A technique of monitoring a battery assembly may include monitoring a parameter associated with the battery assembly to obtain a number of monitored parameter samples. A temporal sequence of monotonically increasing values may be generated from the monitored parameter samples. The temporal sequence may be analyzed for an indication of a trend in the monitored parameter toward one of an upper operational boundary or a lower operational boundary to predict a fault condition of the battery assembly.
US08154295B2 Method for determining electric field response to an electromagnetic field induced in the Earth's subsurface
A method for determining a component of electric field response to a time varying electromagnetic field induced in the Earth's subsurface involves measuring magnetic field gradient in at least two orthogonal directions in response to the induced electromagnetic field and determining an electric field response in a direction normal to the magnetic field gradient measurements.
US08154289B2 Method for joint sparsity-enforced k-space trajectory and radiofrequency pulse design
A system and method is provided for simultaneously designing a radiofrequency (“RF”) pulse waveform and a magnetic field gradient waveform in a magnetic resonance imaging (“MRI”) system. The method includes determining a desired pattern of RF excitation and determining, from the desired pattern of RF excitation, a plurality of k-space locations indicative of the magnetic field gradient waveform and a plurality of complex weighting factors indicative of RF energy deposited at each k-space location. The method also includes calculating, from the determined k-space locations, the magnetic field gradient waveform and calculating, from the complex weighting factors, the RF pulse waveform that will produce the desired pattern of RF excitation when produced with the calculated magnetic field gradient.
US08154281B2 Sensor system wherein spinning phases of the spinning current hall sensor are lengthened in residual offset adjustment
A system including a spinning current Hall sensor and a chopping circuit. The spinning current Hall sensor is configured to provide input signals and the chopping circuit is configured to receive the input signals. Spinning phases of the spinning current Hall sensor are lengthened in residual offset adjustment phases to obtain signals that correspond to the residual offset voltages of the spinning phases.
US08154279B1 Non-destructive testing apparatus for the detection of graphitization of iron
A sensor measures the interaction of an applied magnetic field to an iron sample surface to determine whether the sample surface has been graphitized. The sensor measures the magnetic force resulting from the interaction or the magnetic flux density to determine the content of magnetic material in localized regions of the sample surface. The sensor includes a cantilever beam with a strain gauge for measuring magnetic force. Alternatively, the sensor includes a magnetic flux density sensor to measure magnetic flux density.
US08154273B2 Detecting and handling coincidence in particle analysis
Methods and systems substantially eliminate data representative of coincident events from particle analyzer data. A fluid sample containing particles for analysis is prepared. Using an electrical or optical measurement device, signals are sensed. Each signal corresponds to events detected in a sub-sample of the fluid sample flowing through a measurement region in the particle analyzer. The existence of coincidence in the events is determined based on measuring a peak and first and second points of each of the signals. The first and second points have a signal value corresponding to a predetermined portion of the peak. Results data based upon the coincident events and non-coincident events is generated. The results data is then analyzed. In various examples, the method is applicable to a variety of particle types, and may be implemented on different types of particle analyzers including hematology analyzer and flow cytometers.
US08154265B2 Enhanced efficiency low-dropout linear regulator and corresponding method
A low-dropout linear regulator includes an error amplifier which includes a cascaded arrangement of a differential amplifier and a gain stage. The gain stage includes a transistor driven by the differential amplifier to produce at a drive signal for an output stage of the regulator. The transistor is interposed over its source-drain line between a first resistive load included in a RC network creating a zero in the open loop gain of the regulator, and a second resistive load to produce a drive signal for the output stage of the regulator. The second resistive load is a non-linear compensation element to render current consumption linearly proportional to the load current to the regulator. The first resistive load is a non-linear element causing the frequency of said zero created by the RC network to decrease as the load current of the regulator decreases.
US08154264B2 Method and systems for conduction mode control
Methods for selecting between the two modes (states) of operation, continuous conduction and discontinuous conduction, are disclosed. Systems that are capable of selecting the operating mode and operating in the continuous conduction mode or the discontinuous conduction mode are also disclosed.
US08154253B2 Cell voltage abnormality detector and cell voltage monitoring device for a multi-cell series battery
A circuit for detecting battery cell abnormalities in a multi-cell series battery for effectively and quickly detecting abnormalities with a simple, small circuit that provides improved reliability, safety and service life of the multi-cell series battery. In the voltage monitoring device 12, immediately after the start of the monitoring cycle of any battery cell BTi, cell voltage abnormality detector 14 checks whether cell voltage Vi is outside of the normal operating range. The cell voltage abnormality detector 14 has: a group of selection switches 18 for selecting any battery cell BT of multi-cell series battery 10 and retrieving its voltage to first and second monitoring terminals A, B; cell voltage/monitoring current converter 20; monitoring current/monitoring voltage converter 22; comparison/evaluation circuit 24; evaluation signal output circuit 26 and abnormality detection controller 28.
US08154251B2 System and method for controlling vehicle idling and maintaining vehicle electrical system integrity
A battery charge maintenance system for a vehicle is provided.
US08154250B2 Battery charging controller and battery module using the same
The present invention discloses a battery charging controller for achieving a balanced battery charge. The battery charging controller includes a voltage divider, a switch module and a balance circuit. A reference voltage generated by the voltage divide is used to determine which battery unit in a battery module has an insufficient voltage lower than the others, so that the balance circuit controls the switch module to allow a larger current to charge a lower-voltage battery than a higher-voltage battery, so as to result in substantially the same voltage for each fully charged battery of the battery module.
US08154244B1 Power management of device with modular components
A method, system, and medium are provided for managing power in an electronic device to enhance battery performance. One aspect includes automatically accelerating discharge of a battery below a threshold prior to recharging the battery. Another aspect includes measuring power requirements of modular components to create an order for use in power distribution. For example, a modular component with a highest power requirement might be charged first. In another example, power might be transferred first from a modular component with a lowest power requirement.
US08154233B2 Sensorless method and related device for starting a three-phase brushless direct-current motor
A sensorless method for starting a three-phase brushless direct-current motor includes generating a start-up control signal, a start mode selection signal, and a control signal commutation period; switching to a start mode according to the start mode selection signal; implementing a position aligning procedure according to the start-up control signal and the control signal commutation period; detecting a zero crossing point of back electromotive forces during each control signal commutation period; outputting a sensorless mode selection signal while detecting the zero crossing points of the back electromotive forces during consecutive control signal commutation periods; switching to a sensorless mode according to the sensorless mode selection signal; and detecting a zero crossing point of back electromotive forces in the sensorless mode to determine a starting result of the three-phase brushless direct-current motor.
US08154227B1 Model train control system
A model train control system providing a more realistic modeling of the movement, sound, smoke, and lighting effects of a model train is disclosed. A number of dynamic inputs are used to control such effects. Novel features include providing a dynamic variable speed compensator, a dynamic engine load calculator, automatic dynamic momentum, an adjustable train brake, spectrum control, a velocity controller, pressure sensitive effects, a voice activated dispatcher system, a train location and information reporter network, two digit addressing, a traffic control system, accessory control, a model train Central Control Module, and removable memory modules.
US08154225B2 Control device for an ultrasonic piezoelectric actuator
A control device for an ultrasonic piezoelectric actuator including a first stage supplied by a DC voltage source and including a mechanism forming a second DC voltage above that voltage delivered by the DC voltage source, and a second stage including a mechanism amplifying the second voltage and chopping the voltage obtained by excitation of the actuator with the chopped voltage, under control of a computer. The amplifying mechanism includes an inductor in electrical resonance with the piezoelectric actuator. The inductor is connected to the first stage so as to constitute, during formation of the second voltage, a secondary winding of a transformer forming part of a flyback voltage converter introduced into the first stage to develop the second voltage. The control device may find application to control of a fuel injector in an internal combustion engine.
US08154221B2 Controlling a light emitting diode fixture
One embodiment in accordance with the invention can include a circuit for controlling a light emitting diode (LED) lighting fixture via a power line. The circuit can include a power switch coupled to the power line and is for outputting a firing angle. Additionally, the circuit can include a control circuit coupled to the power switch and is for implementing firing angle control of the power switch. Furthermore, the circuit can include a translator coupled to receive the firing angle and for mapping the firing angle to a function of the LED lighting fixture.
US08154217B2 Driver circuit, method for operating and use of a current mirror of a driver circuit
A driver circuit, operating method, and use of a current mirror of a driver circuit is provided that includes at least one output transistor, a reference network with at least one reference transistor, a switching device, which is connected to the control input of the output transistor and to the control input of the reference transistor to form a switchable current mirror, a current source for providing a reference current for a reference current path, whereby the current source and the reference transistor are arranged in the reference current path, a load terminal, whereby the load terminal and the output transistor are arranged in a load current path, and at least one damping network, which is connected to or connectable to the reference current path. Wherein a connection of components of the at least one damping network and a connection of components of the reference network are substantially the same.
US08154212B2 Circuit for driving light sources and related method
A circuit for supplying a light source (L) such as a high flux (HF) LED with Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) dimming capability includes: a rectifier (10) for receiving an input bipolar PWM modulated signal (v) representative of a desired dimming level for the light source (L) and produce therefrom a rectified signal; a current regulator (14) to receive the rectified signal and produce therefrom a supply current for the light source (L); and a control module (16) sensitive to the input bipolar PWM modulated signal (v) to control the current regulator (14) to produce a PWM modulated supply current for the light source (L); and a capacitor (18) arranged between the rectifier (10) and the current regulator (14) to stabilize the rectified signal. The circuit typically includes ancillary circuitry (12), such as a microcontroller, connected to the capacitor to be supplied with the rectified signal as stabilized by the capacitor (18). The ancillary circuitry (12) is thus supplied irrespective of the dimming level associated with the input bipolar PWM modulated signal.
US08154209B2 Modulated multi-frequency processing method
A method is provided for operating a processing system having a space therein arranged to receive a gas and an electromagnetic field generating portion operable to generate an electromagnetic field within the space. The method includes providing a gas into the space, and operating the electromagnetic field generating portion with a driving potential to generate an electromagnetic field within the space to transform at least a portion of the gas into plasma. The driving potential as a function of time is based on a first potential function portion and a second potential function portion. The first potential function portion comprises a first continuous periodic portion having a first amplitude and a first frequency. The second potential function portion comprises a second periodic portion having an maximum amplitude portion, and minimum amplitude portion and a duty cycle. The maximum amplitude portion is a higher amplitude than the minimum amplitude portion. The duty cycle is the ratio of a duration of the maximum amplitude portion to the sum of the duration of the maximum amplitude portion and the duration of the minimum amplitude portion. The second periodic portion additionally has a second frequency during the maximum amplitude portion. An amplitude modulation of the second periodic portion is phase locked to the first continuous periodic portion.
US08154208B2 Method of supplying power to an automobile headlight lamp and headlight using that method
A method and headlight adapted to supply power to a dual-mode automobile headlight light source able to provide either main beam mode lighting or dipped beam mode lighting, wherein the light source is supplied with electrical power at a first voltage when it is in main beam mode and at a second voltage when it is in dipped beam mode, the second voltage being lower than the first voltage.
US08154206B2 Portable microwave plasma generator capable of generating plasma with low electric power
There is provided a small-sized portable microwave plasma generator capable of generating plasma at atmospheric pressure with low electric power including a coaxial cable, an outer conductor, a connection conductor, and a connection member. The coaxial cable includes a first inner conductor and a dielectric material encircling the first inner conductor. The outer conductor encircles the coaxial cable. The connection conductor includes at least one gas inlet tube. The connection conductor electrically connects between the first inner conductor and the outer conductor at one end of the coaxial cable. The connection member includes a second inner conductor passing through the outer conductor and then connecting to the first inner conductor.
US08154203B2 Plasma display rear panel and its manufacturing method
A plasma display member does not cause an erroneous discharge in a display region end portion and includes: a substrate (1); a substantially stripe-shaped address electrode (2) arranged on the substrate (1); a dielectric layer (3) covering the address electrode (2) and a grid-shaped partition arranged on the dielectric layer (3) and having main walls (4) substantially parallel to the address electrode (2) and auxiliary walls (5) intersecting the main partitions (4). The auxiliary wall (5) intersecting the main wall (4) located at the outermost position among the main walls (4) located at non-display regions (7) at the right and left of a display region (6) has a bottom width identical to the bottom width (L1) of the main wall (4) located at the outermost position among the main walls (4) located at the non-display regions (7) at the right and left of the display region (6) which is multiplied by 0.3 to 1.0.
US08154198B2 Organic light emitting diode display and method for manufacturing the same
The present invention relates to an OLED display and a manufacturing method thereof, and the OLED display according to the present invention includes a display substrate including an OLED, a sealing member disposed opposite to the display substrate and covering the OLED, and a sealant interposed between the display substrate and the sealing member and that seals them to each other, and the sealant has a curved inner surface and an angular outer surface in at least one of corner areas of the display substrate and the sealing member.
US08154196B2 Organic light emitting display with improved power supply control and method of driving the same
An organic light emitting display having an improved image quality. The organic light emitting display includes a data driver for supplying a data signal to data lines; a scan driver for supplying a scan signal to scan lines; pixels at crossing regions between the data lines and the scan lines; a power source unit for generating a first power; a first voltage divider for dividing the first power to generate a first reference power; a second voltage divider for dividing a power from an external power source to generate a second reference power; and a switch to transmit one of the first reference power or the second reference power to the data driver. Each of the pixels includes an organic light emitting diode that emits light when a current flows from the first power to the second power.
US08154194B2 Organic light-emitting device
An organic light-emitting device comprising: an anode; a cathode; a light-emitting layer located between the anode and the cathode, said light-emitting layer containing a light-emitting metal complex comprising general formula 1: (1) where M represents Re(I), W(0), Ir(III), or Os(II); L1 represents a tridentate ligand; and L2, L3 and L4 represent ligands, characterised in that L1 comprises general formula 2:(2) where R1 represents a bridging group; and Ar1, Ar2 and Ar3 each independently represents a group comprising a heteroaryl ring and * indicates coordination to M.
US08154193B2 Organic electroluminescent device
An organic electroluminescence device of the present invention adapts a new concept in its configuration to improve its efficiency in addition to obtain a high reliability and good yielding. The organic electroluminescent device having an electroluminescent film containing an organic material capable of causing an electroluminescence and being arranged between a first electrode and a second electrode, includes: a carrier generation layer, which is a floating electrode, is embodied in the electroluminescent film; an insulting film between the first electrode and the electroluminescent film, and an insulating film between the second electrode and the electroluminescent film, wherein the organic electroluminescent device is driven by an alternating current bias.
US08154192B2 Lighting system
An object of the present invention is to provide a lighting system which uses a stacked light emitting element provided with a plurality of light emitting units and causes little change in emission color even after being used for a long time. A lighting system is provided, which includes a first light emitting element including a plurality of light emitting units; a second light emitting element; a first control means which controls light emission of the first light emitting element; and a second control means which controls light emission of the second light emitting element, where the first light emitting element emits light of a first emission color that is an initial emission color and a second emission color that is an emission color after change over time, and the second light emitting element emits light of a complementary color of the second emission color. With the above structure, color shift due to change over time can be suppressed.
US08154191B2 Silicate base luminescent materials having multiple emission peaks, processes for preparing the same and light emitting devices using the same
A silicate luminescent material excitable by an excitation light source having emissions in UV to blue light region, a process for producing the same, and a white light emitting device. The luminescent material has an emission spectrum with at least two peaks in a range of from 370 to 760 nm, and has a general chemical composition formula of aAO.bA′O.cSiO2:xEu.yLn.zM.δN, wherein A is selected from the group consisting of Sr, Ca, Ba, and combinations thereof; A′ is selected from the group consisting of Mg, Zn, and combinations thereof; Ln is selected from the group consisting of Nd, Dy, Ho, Tm, La, Ce, Er, Pr, Bi, Sm, Sn, Y, Lu, Ga, Sb, Tb, Mn, Pb and combinations thereof; M is one or a combination of halogen ions; N is selected from the group consisting of Li+, Na+, K+, Ag+, and combinations thereof; and a, b, c, x, y, z, and δ are molar coefficients.
US08154189B2 Display device and manufacturing method of the same
In a display device with a pixel constituted using an EL element or the like, leak light from a monitoring element that is provided for correcting changes in the properties of the element due to the temperature change, deterioration, or the like is effectively suppressed. The display device has a structure in which an insulating layer is formed over a substrate and a plurality of light emitting elements each of which has a light emitting layer interposed between a first electrode and a second electrode are formed over the insulating layer. Furthermore, at least part of the plurality of light emitting elements has a structure in which an opening is formed in the insulating layer, and the light emitting layer is formed in the opening region of the insulating layer.
US08154185B2 Diamondoid monolayers as electron emitters
Provided are electron emitters based upon diamondoid monolayers, preferably self-assembled higher diamondoid monolayers. High intensity electron emission has been demonstrated employing such diamondoid monolayers, particularly when the monolayers are comprised of higher diamondoids. The application of such diamondoid monolayers can alter the band structure of substrates, as well as emit monochromatic electrons, and the high intensity electron emissions can also greatly improve the efficiency of field-effect electron emitters as applied to industrial and commercial applications.
US08154183B2 Mitigating shorting risks in encapsulated organic light emitting devices (OLEDs)
A generally planar, flexible light source assembly or OLED device includes a generally planar, flexible light emitting member having opposite first and second surfaces. An impermeable backsheet is disposed along the first surface of the light emitting surface and includes a conductive portion and an opening through the backsheet. A conductive tab or cover is received over the opening, and an insulator is disposed between the tab cover and the opening to mitigate the risk of electrical contact between the components. The insulator can be precut washer-like members or an applied insulating material situated between the conductive components of the light source assembly that pose a potential for shorting. Using tabs with burr-free edges also mitigates against the risk of electrical shorting.
US08154178B2 Piezoelectric frame surrounding a piezoelectric vibrating piece and package with exhaust channel
In the disclosed piezoelectric devices a piezoelectric frame includes a vibrating piece. An excitation electrode is formed on the vibrating piece. An outer frame portion surrounds the vibrating piece and includes an extraction electrode connected to the excitation electrode. A package base is bonded to one surface of the outer frame portion and includes a connection electrode connected to the extraction electrode. The package base includes an external terminal formed on a surface thereof opposite the surface on which the connection electrodes are formed. Through-hole conductors connected the connection electrodes with respective external terminals. A lid is bonded to an opposing surface of the piezoelectric frame. An exhaust channel is in communication with the extraction electrode adjacent the through-hole conductors.
US08154173B2 Mechanically amplified piezoelectric transducer
A piezoelectric transducer having a component therein for amplifying the deformation of the piezoelectric element so as to increase the available transducer stroke. This amplification of the piezoelectric element may be provided by a mechanical amplifier coupled to the piezoelectric element. The mechanical amplifier is configured to exert a preloading force on the piezoelectric element.
US08154167B2 Induction motor lamination design
A high efficiency, high torque density, high speed induction motor is provided, the motor utilizing (i) stator teeth with parallel side surfaces; (ii) rotor teeth with parallel side surfaces; (iii) wide open stator slots; (iv) closed rotor slots with thick tooth bridges; and (v) deep stator and rotor slots.
US08154161B2 Miniature motor
A miniature motor includes a substrate having a pivotal portion. A coil unit and a detection element are provided around the pivotal portion. A rotor is rotatably mounted to the pivotal portion and includes a hub and a permanent magnet mounted to the hub and aligned with the coil unit and the detection element. The permanent magnet includes a plurality of north and south poles each having a stronger magnetism section. A weaker magnetism section is formed between two adjacent stronger magnetism sections. At least one auxiliary starting member is mounted between the substrate and the rotor and aligned with the permanent magnet. When the rotor stops rotating, the at least one auxiliary starting member aligns with and magnetically attracts at least one of the stronger magnetism sections, locating the detection element in a position not aligned with the weaker magnetism sections along an axis of the hub.
US08154159B2 Electric motor
An electric motor for use in an electric vehicle, the electric motor includes: an inner housing which holds a stator; and an outer housing which defines a space through which cooling water is caused to flow between the inner housing and itself. The inner housing and the outer housing are connected by a plurality of columns disposed in the space.
US08154158B2 Cooling an electrical machine
An electrical machine includes a stator and a rotor disposed in a housing of the electrical machine. The stator includes windings having a first set of end turns at a first end of the stator and having a second set of end turns at a second, opposing end of the stator. The stator has a substantially tubular shape and an interior lateral surface. The rotor extends through the interior of the stator. A flow inlet into a volume in the housing about the first end turns is located radially outside of the interior lateral surface of the stator. A flow outlet from the volume in the housing about the first end turns is located radially outside of the interior lateral surface. The inlet and the outlet are cooperatively arranged to communicate a flow of fluid substantially transverse across the first end of the stator.
US08154152B2 Method of controlling DC/DC converter, fuel cell vehicle for carrying out such method
A triangular-wave current flows through a reactor of a DC/DC converter for converting voltages between increased and reduced levels. Surges are reduced, which are developed in an output voltage serving as a control voltage when the triangular-wave current changes across a zero value at which the current direction is changed. When a primary current flowing through the reactor changes across 0 [A] (zero value) at which the direction is changed, within an adjustment range, a feedback coefficient by which to multiply the error between the control voltage and a target voltage is multiplied by k (k>1) so as to increase a feedback amount. Surges developed in the control voltage due to a dead time when the primary current changes across 0 [A] are reduced.
US08154151B2 Apparatus, method, and system for conveying electrical energy
An apparatus, system, and method, the apparatus includes an intelligent energy transfer system including a configurable switching system electrically coupleable to a vehicle. The vehicle includes one of an electric vehicle and a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. The configurable switching system is configured to convey a first direct current (DC) energy from a first energy source to an energy storage system of the vehicle, receive a first alternating current (AC) energy conveyed to the vehicle, convey a second DC energy from the vehicle to a first DC powered load, and convey a second AC energy from the vehicle to a first AC powered load. Each of the first energy source, the first AC powered load, and the first DC powered load are located remotely from the vehicle.
US08154148B2 Device and method for emergency electricity supply on board an aircraft
A device and a method for emergency electricity supply on board an aircraft, able to supply a part of the aircraft's electrical power circuit. The device includes a synchronous machine with separate excitation, associated with a flywheel, and an auxiliary device to set the flywheel in rotation and to maintain rotation of the flywheel.
US08154146B2 Generator, nacelle, and mounting method of a nacelle of a wind energy converter
An apparatus for wind energy conversion includes a nacelle having a main frame, the main frame having a lower part and an upper part joined to the lower part, the upper part having a first strap extending across the lower part; a stator disposed within the nacelle; a rotor disposed within the nacelle; a mounting surface attached to the main frame and defining a rotor space, the mounting surface having a first side-face that exposes the rotor space; and a flange rotatably supported on the main frame and including a first end connected to the rotor. The rotor is cantilevered from the flange into the rotor space from the first side face.
US08154143B2 Wind energy converter comprising a superposition gear
A wind energy converter configured for transmitting power to an electric grid includes a variable ratio gear system mechanically coupled between a rotor and a generator. A control system is configured to mechanically control a rotational speed of the generator so that, during a low voltage event, the wind energy converter can continue to operate and supply power to the grid.
US08154142B2 Communicating energy storages with different functions
An integrated system of communicating energy storage devices for supplying an alternate power source to operating systems for a wind turbine connected to an electrical grid, is provided. The integrated system includes at least one wind turbine with a rotor, the wind turbine being connected to an electrical grid. At least one operating system of the at least one wind turbine requires an alternate power source during a wind turbine operating condition. Further included are a plurality of energy storage devices capable of supplying the alternate power source. Communication of energy storage between at least two of energy storage devices is provided.
US08154140B2 Air regeneration for a moving vehicle
Airflow regeneration device, which generates electricity from air resistance, but only when the vehicle is in the speed reduction mode. In the non-speed reduction mode, the air resistance is minimally increased. In the speed reduction mode, the air resistance is intentionally increased.
US08154129B2 Electrode structure and semiconductor device
In a power MOS transistor, for example, a source electrode is formed so as to be commonly connected to a plurality of source regions formed on the front surface. Thus, a current density varies based on in-plane resistance of the source electrode, thereby providing the necessity of increasing the number of wires connecting the sources and a lead. In the invention, an electrode structure includes a copper plating layer 10e formed on a pad electrode 10a by an electrolytic plating method, and a nickel plating layer 10f and a gold plating layer formed so as to cover the upper and side surfaces of the copper plating layer 10e by an electroless plating method.
US08154126B2 Methods for wafer-level packaging of microelectronic devices and microelectronic devices formed by such methods
Methods for packaging microelectronic devices, microelectronic workpieces having packaged dies, and microelectronic devices re disclosed herein. One aspect of the invention is directed toward a microelectronic workpiece comprising a substrate having a device side and a backside. In one embodiment, the microelectronic workpiece further includes a plurality of dies formed on the device side of the substrate, a dielectric layer over the dies, and a plurality of bond-pads on the dielectric layer. The dies have integrated circuitry and a plurality of bond-pads electrically coupled to the integrated circuitry. The ball-pads are arranged in ball-pad arrays over corresponding dies on the substrate. The microelectronic workpiece of this embodiment further includes a protective layer over the backside of the substrate. The protective layer is formed on the backside of the substrate from a material that is in a flowable state and is then cured to a non-flowable state.
US08154122B2 Semiconductor package and methods of manufacturing the semiconductor package
A semiconductor package and a method of manufacturing the semiconductor package are provided. A semiconductor package according to the present general inventive concept may include a base substrate having one surface on which a connection terminal is formed and a first package substrate having a molding layer covering the base substrate. The molding layer faces a circumference of the connection terminal and includes a side surface having first and second surfaces having a circumference of a different size, respectively.
US08154116B2 Layered chip package with heat sink
A layered chip package includes: a plurality of layer portions stacked, each of the layer portions including a semiconductor chip; and a heat sink. Each of the plurality of layer portions has a top surface, a bottom surface, and four side surfaces. The heat sink has at least one first portion, and a second portion coupled to the at least one first portion. The at least one first portion is adjacent to the top surface or the bottom surface of at least one of the layer portions. The second portion is adjacent to one of the side surfaces of each of at least two of the plurality of layer portions.
US08154111B2 Near chip size semiconductor package
A semiconductor package that can fit semiconductor chips of various sizes without having to change the footprint of the carrier package. One aspect of the semiconductor package comprises a leadframe, a semiconductor chip attached to the leadframe, electrical connectors electrically connecting the semiconductor chip to the leadframe, and a sealing material. The leadframe has a plurality of leads, with each one of the plurality of leads having an upper side, a lower exposed side, and a laterally exposed side. The upper side of each one of the plurality of leads defines a generally co-planar surface. Further, after sealing material encapsulates the components of the semiconductor package in a spatial relationship, the lower exposed side and the lateral exposed side of the plurality of leads are exposed to the outside surface of the semiconductor package.
US08154104B2 Semiconductor device having a resistor and methods of forming the same
In a semiconductor device and a method of making the same, the semiconductor device comprises a substrate including a first region and a second region. At least one first gate structure is on the substrate in the first region, the at least one first gate structure including a first gate insulating layer and a first gate electrode layer on the first gate insulating layer. At least one isolating structure is in the substrate in the second region, a top surface of the isolating structure being lower in height than a top surface of the substrate. At least one resistor pattern is on the at least one isolating structure.
US08154102B2 Semiconductor device and manufacturing method thereof
A semiconductor device includes groove-like regions that are formed between two adjacent bit lines among a plurality of bit lines each having upper and side surfaces covered with a cap insulating film and a side-wall insulating film, respectively, a SiON film that contains more O (oxygen) than N (nitrogen) and continuously covers inner surfaces of the groove-like regions, and a silicon dioxide film formed by reforming polysilazane and filled in the groove-like regions with the SiON film interposed therebetween.
US08154095B2 Image sensor and method for manufacturing the same
Provided is an image sensor that comprises a readout circuitry, an interlayer dielectric, an interconnection, an image sensing device, an ion implantation region, a contact, and a pixel separation layer. The readout circuitry is disposed at a first substrate. The interlayer dielectric is disposed on the first substrate. The interconnection is disposed in the interlayer dielectric, and electrically connected to the readout circuitry. The image sensing device is disposed on the interconnection, and comprises a first conductive type layer and a second conductive type layer. The contact electrically connects the first conductive type layer of the image sensing device and the interconnection. The ion implantation region is formed in the second conductive type layer at a region corresponding to the contact. The pixel separation layer is disposed at a pixel boundary of the image sensing device.
US08154091B2 Integrated electronic circuit including a thin film portion based on hafnium oxide
An integrated electronic circuit has a thin layer portion based on hafnium oxide. This portion additionally contains magnesium atoms, so that the portion is in the form of a hafnium-and-magnesium mixed oxide. Such a portion has a high dielectric constant and a very low leakage current. It is particularly suitable for forming a part of a gate insulation layer of a MOS transistor or a part of a MIM capacitor dielectric.
US08154088B1 Semiconductor topography and method for reducing gate induced drain leakage (GIDL) in MOS transistors
Improved semiconductor topographies and methods are provided herein for reducing the gate induced drain leakage (GIDL) associated with MOS transistors. In particular, a disposable spacer layer is used as an additional mask during implantation of one or more source/drain regions. The physical spacing between the gate and the source/drain regions of a MOS transistor (i.e., the gate/drain overlap) can be varied by varying the thickness of the disposable spacer layer. For example, a larger spacer layer thickness may be used to decrease the gate/drain overlap and reduce the GIDL associated with the MOS transistor. The disposable spacer layer is completely removed after implantation to enable electrical contact between the source/drain regions and subsequently formed source/drain contacts. A method is also provided herein for independently customizing the amount of current leakage associated with two or more MOS transistors.
US08154076B2 High and low voltage vertical channel transistors
A semiconductor device includes low voltage and high voltage transistors over a substrate. The low voltage transistor is configured by at least one unit transistor. The high voltage transistor is configured by a greater number of the unit transistors than the at least one unit transistor that configures the low voltage transistor. Each of the unit transistors may include a vertically extending portion of semiconductor providing a channel region and having a uniform height, a gate insulating film extending along a side surface of the vertically extending portion of semiconductor, a gate electrode separated by the gate insulating film from the vertically extending portion of semiconductor, and upper and lower diffusion regions being respectively disposed near the top and bottom of the vertically extending portion of semiconductor. The greater number of the unit transistors are connected in series to each other and have gate electrodes eclectically connected to each other.
US08154070B2 Semiconductor memory device and method of manufacturing the same
A nonvolatile memory includes a semiconductor substrate having a body member and a step member formed on the body member, a highly doped first well layer formed on the step member, a control electrode formed on the step member, a first and a second diffusion layers in the substrate, lightly doped second well layers formed on the main surface of the substrate between the first or the second diffusion layer and the first well layer, and a first and a second charge-storage multi-layers sandwiching the step member and the control electrode, each of the first and the second charge-storage multi-layers including a bottom oxide layer, a charge-storage film, a top oxide layer and a floating electrode which are formed in that order.
US08154068B2 Non-volatile semiconductor storage device and method of manufacturing the same
Each of memory strings comprising: a first semiconductor layer having a pair of columnar portions extending in a vertical direction to a substrate and a joining portion formed to join lower ends of the pair of columnar portions; an electric charge accumulation layer formed to surround a side surface of the first semiconductor layer; and a first conductive layer formed to surround a side surface of the electric charge accumulation layer. The columnar portions are aligned at a first pitch in a first direction orthogonal to the vertical direction, and arranged in a staggered pattern at a second pitch in a second direction orthogonal to the vertical and first directions. The first conductive layers are configured to be arranged at the first pitch in the first direction, and extend to curve in a wave-like fashion in the second direction along the staggered-pattern arrangement.
US08154065B2 Semiconductor memory devices including a vertical channel transistor having a buried bit line
Semiconductor memory devices include a semiconductor substrate and a plurality of semiconductor material pillars in a spaced relationship on the semiconductor substrate. Respective surrounding gate electrodes surround ones of the pillars. A first source/drain region is in the semiconductor substrate between adjacent ones of the pillars and a second source/drain region is in an upper portion of at least one of the adjacent pillars. A buried bit line is in the first source/drain region and electrically coupled to the first source/drain region and a storage node electrode is on the upper portion of the at least one of the adjacent pillars and electrically contacting with the second source/drain region.
US08154056B2 Solid-state imaging device, method of manufacturing solid-state imaging device and method of driving solid-state imaging device
A solid-state imaging device capable of securing sufficient sensitivity and obtaining favorable characteristics is provided.The solid-state imaging device includes a charge-transfer portion 2 provided on one side of each column of light-receiving sensor portions 1, each forming a pixel, arranged in the form of a matrix and a transfer electrode of the charge-transfer portion 2 including a first transfer electrode formed of first electrode layers 3A and 3C and a second transfer electrode formed by electrically connecting first electrode layers 3B and 3D and a second electrode layer 4; the first electrode layers 3B and 3D in the second transfer electrode are independently formed in each of the charge-transfer portion 2; and the first transfer electrodes 3A and 3C and the second electrode layer 4 are laminated in a portion between pixels adjacent to each other in the direction of the charge-transfer portions 2.
US08154035B2 Nitride semiconductor light emitting element
In a nitride semiconductor light emitting element, a light transmitting substrate has an upper surface on which a nitride semiconductor layer including at least a light emitting layer is formed. On the upper surface of the light transmitting substrate, recess regions and rise regions are formed. One of each of the recess regions and each of the rise regions is formed by a polygon having at least one apex having an interior angle of 180° or greater when viewed in a planar view. The other of each of the recess regions and each of the rise regions is formed not to be connected to one another in a straight line when viewed in a planar view. A nitride semiconductor light emitting element having such a configuration has excellent light extraction efficiency and can be manufactured at a moderate cost.
US08154034B1 Method for fabricating vertical light emitting devices and substrate assembly for the same
In a method for fabricating a vertical light emitting device, the separation or lift-off of the substrate from the light emitting diode structure formed thereon is facilitated by forming voids at the interface between the substrate and the light emitting diode structure where the separation or lift-off occurs. A substrate assembly contains a substrate and an epitaxial layer, and voids are formed at the interface between the substrate and the epitaxial layer in a controlled manner. A light emitting diode structure is then formed on the epitaxial layer, followed by attaching the light emitting diode structure to a superstrate, separating the substrate from the epitaxial layer, and forming a conductive layer and a contact pad in place of the substrate, so as to form a vertical light emitting device.
US08154026B2 Silicon carbide bipolar semiconductor device
In a SiC bipolar semiconductor device with a mesa structure having a SiC drift layer of a first conductive type and a SiC carrier injection layer of a second conductive type that are SiC epitaxial layers grown from a surface of a SiC single crystal substrate, the formation of stacking faults and the expansion of the area thereof are prevented and thereby the increase in forward voltage is prevented. Further, a characteristic of withstand voltage in a reverse biasing is improved. An forward-operation degradation preventing layer is formed on a mesa wall or on a mesa wall and a mesa periphery to separate spatially the surface of the mesa wall from a pn-junction interface. In one embodiment, the forward-operation degradation preventing layer is composed of a silicon carbide low resistance layer of a second conductive type that is equipotential during the application of a reverse voltage. In another embodiment, the forward-operation degradation preventing layer is composed of a silicon carbide conductive layer of a second conductive type, and a metal layer that is equipotential during the application of a reverse voltage is formed on a surface of the silicon carbide conductive layer. In still another embodiment, the forward-operation degradation preventing layer is composed of a high resistance amorphous layer.
US08154022B2 Process for fabricating a structure for epitaxy without an exclusion zone
A process for fabricating a composite structure for epitaxy, including at least one crystalline growth seed layer of semiconductor material on a support substrate, with the support substrate and the crystalline growth seed layer each having, on the periphery of their bonding face, a chamfer or an edge rounding zone. The process includes at least one step of wafer bonding the crystalline growth seed layer directly onto the support substrate and at least one step of thinning the crystalline growth seed layer. After thinning, the crystalline growth seed layer has a diameter identical to its initial diameter.
US08154021B2 Array substrate for liquid crystal display device and method of fabricating the same
Array substrates for liquid crystal display (LCD) devices are formed on a substrate with first and second gate lines crossing a data line to define first and second pixel regions. A thin film transistor includes a source electrode and a drain electrode. A metal pattern overlaps a common line and makes up a portion of the drain electrode. A passivation layer is disposed on the source and drain electrodes and on the metal pattern. A first pixel electrode is connected to the metal pattern and a common electrode is connected to the common line. Various repair patterns are formed to define one or more repairing portions that enable connection of the drain electrode or metal pattern to a second pixel electrode of the second pixel region if the cut line is cut in the event the first pixel electrode fails to display an image.
US08154015B2 Light-emitting device including thin film transistor
The present invention provides a TFT that has a channel length particularly longer than that of an existing one, specifically, several tens to several hundreds times longer than that of the existing one, and thereby allowing turning to an on-state at a gate voltage particularly higher than the existing one and driving, and allowing having a low channel conductance gd. According to the present invention, not only the simple dispersion of on-current but also the normalized dispersion thereof can be reduced, and other than the reduction of the dispersion between the individual TFTs, the dispersion of the OLEDs themselves and the dispersion due to the deterioration of the OLED can be reduced.
US08153991B2 Direct write lithography system
A direct write lithography system. The system includes a converter having an array of light controllable electron sources, each field emitter being arranged for converting light into an electron beam, the field emitters having an element distance between each two adjacent field emitters, each filed emitter having an activation area. A plurality of individually controllable light sources, each light source arranged for activating one field emitter. A controller controls each light source individually. Each electron beam is focused from the field emitters with a diameter smaller than the diameter of a light source on an object plane.
US08153975B2 Interfacing devices and systems
A system combining the output of a thermal detection and imaging device with a capture and display device, such as a cordless or portable telephone/camera, is used to manage thermal information and displays.
US08153974B2 Electronic device for minimizing laser light leakage
A transportable electronic cassette and an image reading device carry out communication by laser light between themselves, with the separation distance to the casing of the opposing device detected by separation distance sensors provided respectively to the electronic cassette and the image reading device. The value of the separation distance detected is monitored to see whether or not the separation distance exceeds a reference value of the detected value at the start of communication by a specific value or more. Conclusion can be made that there has been a relatively large change in the relative position of the electronic cassette and the image reading device if the detected value of the separation distance becomes greater than the reference value by the specific value or more, and consequently emission is halted of the laser light from the electronic cassette and the image reading device.
US08153973B2 Method for analyzing, labeling and certifying low radiocarbon food products
Methods, particularly computer-implemented methods, are provided for analyzing, labeling, reporting, and certifying the radiocarbon abundance levels of low radiocarbon food products, including relevant chemical components of final products as well as components of lots used in manufacturing, so that manufacturers, consumers or other users of these products can have high confidence in their stated radiocarbon content and a better understanding of their potential effectiveness in reducing genetic damage. Other embodiments employ an algorithm to calculate an overall value or grade or range indicative of the product's known or estimated ability to either reduce the radiocarbon level of, or to reduce genetic damage occurring in, newly formed chromosomal material in consumers of such products, the chromosomal material comprising DNA and histone proteins and remote access by consumers to the computer-implemented methods, for example, via the Internet.
US08153969B2 Inspection method and inspection system using charged particle beam
In an electric immersion lens having high resolution capability, secondary electrons generated from a specimen are accelerated to suppress the dependency of rotational action of the secondary electrons applied thereto by an objective lens upon energy levels of the secondary electrons and when selectively detecting low and high angle components of elevation and azimuth as viewed from a secondary electron generation site by means of an annular detector interposed between an electron source and the objective lens, the secondary electrons are adjusted and deflected by means of an E×B deflector such that the center axis of secondary electrons converged finely under acceleration is made to be coincident with the center axis of a low elevation signal detection system and the secondary electrons are deviated from an aperture of a high elevation signal detection system.
US08153963B2 Mass spectrometer
This invention relates to mass spectrometers comprising a reaction cell and where mass spectra are collected both from unreacted ions and also from reaction product ions. In particular, although not exclusively, this invention finds use in tandem mass spectrometry where mass spectra are collected from precursor and fragment ions. The present invention provides an arrangement where ions may be sent to a reaction cell for fragmentation or other processing before onward transport to a mass analyser. Alternatively, ions may be passed directly to a mass analyser along a bypass path.
US08153962B2 Mass spectrometry assay for congenital adrenal hyperplasia
Methods are provided for detecting the amount of one or more CAH panel analytes (i.e., pregnenolone, 17-OH pregnenolone, progesterone, 17-OH progesterone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), androstenedione, testosterone, deoxycorticosterone, 11-deoxycortisol, and cortisol) in a sample by mass spectrometry. The methods generally involve ionizing one or more CAH panel analytes in a sample and quantifying the generated ions to determine the amount of one or more CAH panel analytes in the sample. In methods where amounts of multiple CAH panel analytes are detected, the amounts of multiple analytes are detected in the same sample injection.
US08153958B2 Method and apparatus for producing hyperthermal beams
An exemplary apparatus and method for producing a hyperthermal beam is provided. An apparatus may comprise a plasma discharge source, an emission system, and a magnetic source. The plasma discharge source may be configured to receive an elemental source, generate plasma based on the elemental source, and generate one or more neutral atoms of the elemental source. The emission system may be configured to emit a hyperthermal beam, comprising the one or more neutral atoms of the elemental source, from the plasma discharge source through an aperture of the plasma discharge source. The magnetic source may be configured to provide a magnetic field and to collimate the hyperthermal beam in a first direction and control a size of the hyperthermal beam.
US08153955B2 Electric field sensor and method for fabricating the same
An electric field sensor is obtained by directly forming an electrooptical film of Fabry-Perot resonator structure on a polished surface at a tip of an optical fiber by an aerosol deposition method.
US08153951B2 Optical communication device and electronic equipment having an array of light receiving sections
An optical communication device includes a one-chip light receiving element having a plurality of light receiving sections having light receiving sensitivity to different wavelength ranges in a visible light spectrum. The photodiode has a light receiving surface, which is divided into nine blocks. For each light receiving section group in which light receiving sections have the light receiving sensitivity to an identical wavelength range, the light receiving sections are dispersedly placed in corresponding ones of the blocks.
US08153944B2 Tracking solar collector with parallel arrays of cells
A tracking concentrator with a positioning system for alternately aiming the tracking solar concentrator based on the sun or a database is disclosed. The preferred positioning system comprises a sensor adapted to detect an incident light level; a tracking database comprising solar angle information; an orientation processor; one or more actuators for aiming the one or more optical elements based on the orientation processor; wherein the orientation processor is configured to track the sun based on (a) the receiver if the sensed light level exceeds a determined threshold, and (b) the tracking database if the sensed light level does not exceed the determined threshold.
US08153927B2 High visibility plasma arc torch
An improved torch providing high visibility of the work zone to the operator, an increased viewing angle, and a reduced obstruction angle. The high visibility torch includes consumables adapted to maintain torch and consumables performance while reducing visual obstruction to the user, by coordinating, balancing, and optimizing design requirements and stack up tolerances. The invention also includes a related low-profile safety switch that promotes workpiece visibility and minimizes view obstruction.
US08153926B2 Etching method and system
An etching method and an etching system are adapted to produce a high etch selectivity for a mask, an excellent anisotropic profile and a large etching depth. An etching system according to the invention comprises a floating electrode arranged vis-à-vis a substrate electrode in a vacuum chamber and held in a floating state in terms of electric potential, a material arranged at the side of the floating electrode facing the substrate electrode to form an anti-etching film and a control unit for intermittently applying high frequency power to the floating electrode. An etching method according to the invention uses a material arranged at the side of the floating electrode opposite to the substrate electrode to form an anti-etching film as target and only rare gas as main gas and is adapted to repeat a step of forming a film on the substrate by sputtering by applying high frequency power to the floating electrode and a step of subsequently etching the substrate by suspending the application of high frequency power to the floating electrode and introducing etching gas into the vacuum chamber in a predetermined sequence.
US08153913B2 Encapsulated weighing cell with eccentric load error adjustment
A gravimetric measuring instrument has a weighing cell and a flexible, tubular-shaped encapsulation. The weighing cell has a parallel-guiding mechanism and at least one measurement transducer. The ends of the encapsulation are attached, respectively, to the stationary parallelogram leg and the movable parallelogram leg, so that at least the parallel-guiding mechanism and the measurement transducer are enclosed by the encapsulation, protecting them from dirt and humidity. In some aspects, the parallel-guiding mechanism has an adjustment region formed at one of the parallelogram legs which allows adjustment of the distance between at least one flexure pivot of the upper parallel-guiding member and a flexure pivot of the lower parallel-guiding member. This adjustment region is mechanically connected to at least one adjustment-setting area, which is arranged outside the encapsulation and allows changes to be made to the adjustment region.
US08153912B2 Baby balance with detachable tray halves
A baby scale includes a weighing tray configured to hold a baby and having a first tray half and a second tray half disposable together in a storage position; a measuring device configured to support the weighing tray and configured to determine a weight of the baby, the measuring device including at least one load cell; a display configured to show the weight of the baby; and a connection device configured to establish a mechanical connection and an electrical connection when the first tray half and the second tray half are in a weighing position.
US08153910B1 Junction and outlet boxes for in floor wiring systems
A utility floor box includes a body having a horizontal base, first and second longitudinally extending side walls extending from first and second opposed edges of the horizontal base, and first and second laterally extending end walls extending from third and fourth opposed edges of the horizontal base. At least one of the first and second side walls defines a branch opening, and at least one of the first and second end walls defines a duct opening. First and second horizontal support bars extend through aligned first and second support openings in the first and second side walls. First and second vertical support legs are secured to the first support bar, and third and fourth vertical support legs secured to the second support bar. The first, second, third and fourth support legs are vertically adjustable with respect to the corresponding first and second support bars.
US08153904B2 Substrate panel including insulation parts and bus line
A substrate panel is disclosed. The substrate panel may include a clamp contact, a bus line formed at a distance from the clamp contact, and a plurality of substrate units supplied with an electric current by way of the bus line, where an insulation part may be formed between the clamp contact and the bus line, through which electricity may not flow.
US08153897B2 Harness routing structure for link
A harness routing structure includes: a supporting portion; a link pivotally supported by the supporting portion; and a harness protector provided on the supporting portion. The harness protector includes a harness guide portion for guiding to lead a wire harness thereto, a harness guide path, successive to the harness guide portion, along which the wire harness is routed, and a harness accommodating portion, successive to the harness guide path, for accommodating the wire harness bendably. The wire harness is led from the link to the harness protector to be routed in the harness protector. An excess length of the wire harness is absorbed into the harness accommodating portion in conjunction with rotation of the link.
US08153895B2 Weatherproof while-in-use electrical box cover with insertable hinge pin
The present invention provides a weatherproof while-in-use electrical box cover. The box cover includes a base having a back wall including an opening therein for accessing an electrical outlet and permetrical base side walls extending thereabout defining an open front face. The box cover further includes a hood having a front wall for covering the open front face of the base and permetrical hood side walls extending therefrom. The hood is matable with the base and including a cooperative mating assembly on respective side walls for defining a pivot location for pivotally attaching the hood to the base. A hinge pin is insertably connected to the cooperative mating assemblies for hingedly attaching the hood to the base and the hinge pin is configured to non-releaseably engage with the cooperative mating assembly.
US08153893B2 Vertical patching system
A patching system includes network equipment in a cabinet; a first patch panel cabinet; a second patch panel cabinet; a vertical patch panel mounted between the first patch panel cabinet and the second patch panel cabinet, the vertical patch panel having telecommunications connectors mounted therein; and a vertical cable manager mounted adjacent to one of the first patch panel cabinet and the second patch panel cabinet.
US08153892B2 Internal light trapping method and structure using porous monocyrstalline silicon films for photovoltaic applications
A thin photovoltaic device for solar cell applications. As used herein, the term “thin” generally means less than about 20 microns of silicon crystal material, but can also be other dimensions. The term thin should not be limited and should be construed broadly and consistently as one of ordinary skill in the art. In a specific embodiment, the device has a support substrate having a surface region. The device has a thickness of photovoltaic material overlying the surface region of support substrate and having a predefined surface texture to facilitate trapping of one or more incident photons using at least a refraction process to cause the one or more photons to traverse a longer optical path within an inner region of the thickness of material according to a specific embodiment. In a specific embodiment the longer optical path is provided relative to a shorter optical path characteristic of a surface region without the predefined surface roughness. In a specific embodiment, the device also has a dimension of about one wavelength of visible light to about two microns characterizing the thickness of the photovoltaic material.
US08153887B2 Method and structure for hydrogenation of silicon substrates with shaped covers
Method and structure for hydrogenation of silicon substrates with shaped covers. According to an embodiment, the present invention provides a method for fabricating a photovoltaic material. The method includes providing a semiconductor substrate. The method also includes forming a crystalline material characterized by a plurality of worm hole structures therein overlying the semiconductor substrate. The worm hole structures are characterized by a density distribution from a surface region of the crystalline material to a defined depth within a z-direction of the surface region to form a thickness of material to be detached. The method further includes providing a glue layer overlying a surface region of the crystalline material. The method includes joining the surface region of the crystalline material via the glue layer to a support substrate.
US08153884B2 Solar cell module
A solar cell module is provided that comprises: a solar cell; a connection electrode provided on each of a light-receiving surface and back surface of the solar cell; a conductive resin adhesive arranged on an upper surface of the connection electrode; and a wiring material electrically connected to the solar cell and connected with the connection electrode and the conductive resin adhesive, wherein the conductive resin adhesive changes color upon curing, and the conductive resin adhesive on the upper surface of the connection electrode provided on the light-receiving surface of the solar cell is arranged within a region corresponding to at least one of the connection electrode and the wiring material, on a projection plane parallel with the light-receiving surface and exposed on a light-receiving surface side.
US08153881B2 Disc jockey video game and controller
A disc jockey music-based video game with a controller for the same. The disc jockey music-based video game presents instructive cues for manipulation of the controller and evaluates game player's performance based on the player's compliance with the instructive cues. A display with visual indicators of instructive cues and visual indicators representing player performance may be provided. Additionally, other forms of game player feedback may be provided, for example music, simulated crowd response other forms of generally auditory cues.
US08153877B2 Locking mechanism for percussion musical instrument
A high hat cymbal has a magnetic clutch that engages the top cymbal and allows it to be controlled by a standard high hat foot pedal. When the drummer's foot is removed from the high hat foot pedal, the magnetic clutch strikes a mechanical arm, which causes the magnetic clutch to disengage without any action, required on the part of the drummer. The top cymbal can be re-engaged by the magnetic clutch so that the high hat foot pedal can now be operated again, simply by depressing the high hat foot pedal. A trip bar may be provided to provide for automatic disengagement of the clutch mechanism.
US08153876B2 Systems and methods of stretching and tuning drumheads
A system for stretching and tuning a drumhead includes a plurality of bolts each provided with a threaded shank and at least one associated nut threaded thereon. Each bolt is secured circumferentially and substantially equi-angularly about the periphery of the drum shell. The system includes a flexible, elongate member that is woven alternatively between the drumhead and each of the bolts until the elongate member is taut. Thereafter, the bolt shanks may be rotated relative to the bolt nuts so as to pull the elongate member into a more taut tension, whereby the condition of the drumhead increases. A drum including the system, a kit for implementing the system, and a method of implementing the system are also disclosed.
US08153870B2 Rice hybrid XL745
A rice hybrid designated XL745 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of rice hybrid XL745, to the plants of rice hybrid XL745 and to methods for producing a rice plant produced by crossing the hybrid XL745 with itself or another rice plant. The invention further relates to hybrid rice seeds and plants produced by crossing the hybrid XL745 with another rice plant. This invention further relates to growing and producing blends of rice seeds comprised of seeds of rice hybrid XL745 with rice seed of one, two, three, four or more of another rice hybrid, rice variety or rice inbred.
US08153868B1 Maize variety hybrid X7M675
A novel maize variety designated X7M675 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing maize variety X7M675 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X7M675 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X7M675, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X7M675. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X7M675.
US08153859B2 DGAT genes from oleaginous organisms for increased seed storage lipid production and altered fatty acid profiles in oilseed plants
Transgenic soybean seed having increased total fatty acid content of at least 10% and altered fatty acid profiles when compared to the total fatty acid content of non-transgenic, null segregant soybean seed are described. DGAT genes from oleaginous organisms are used to achieve the increase in seed storage lipids.
US08153851B2 Integrated propylene production
A process for the production of propylene, the process including: fractionating a hydrocarbon stream comprising n-butenes, isobutylene, and paraffins into at least two fractions including a light C4 fraction comprising isobutylene and a heavy C4 fraction comprising n-butenes and paraffins; contacting at least a portion of the heavy C4 fraction with a metathesis catalyst to form a metathesis product comprising ethylene, propylene, C4+ olefins, and paraffins; fractionating the metathesis product into at least four fractions including an ethylene fraction, a propylene fraction, a C4 fraction comprising C4 olefins and paraffins, and a C5+ fraction; cracking the light C4 fraction and the C5+ fraction to produce a cracking product comprising ethylene, propylene, and heavier hydrocarbons; and fractionating the cracking product into at least two fractions including a light fraction comprising propylene and a fraction comprising C5 to C6 hydrocarbons.
US08153840B2 Oxidation system with sidedraw secondary reactor
Disclosed is an optimized process and apparatus for more efficiently and economically carrying out the liquid-phase oxidation of an oxidizable compound. Such liquid-phase oxidation is carried out in a bubble column reactor that provides for a highly efficient reaction at relatively low temperatures. When the oxidized compound is para-xylene and the product from the oxidation reaction is crude terephthalic acid (CTA), such CTA product can be purified and separated by more economical techniques than could be employed if the CTA were formed by a conventional high-temperature oxidation process.
US08153839B2 Method for synthesis of keto acids or amino acids by hydration of acetylene compound
An object of the present invention is to provide a method for synthesis of keto acids by hydration of an acetylene compound (acetylene-carboxylic acids) under mild conditions free from harmful mercury catalysts and a method for synthesis of amino acids from acetylene-carboxylic acids in a single container (one-pot or tandem synthesis). In one embodiment of the method according to the present invention for synthesis of keto acids, acetylene-carboxylic acids is hydrated in the presence of a metal salt represented by General Formula (1), where M1 represents an element in Group VIII, IX, or X of the periodic table, and X1, X2, or X3 ligand represents halogen, H2O, or a solvent molecule, and k represents a valence of a cation species, and Y represents an anion species, and L represents a valence of the anion species, and each of K and L independently represents 1 or 2, and k×m=L×n.
US08153836B2 Silsesquioxane compound mixture, hydrolyzable silane compound, making methods, resist composition, patterning process, and substrate processing
In a mixture of silsesquioxane compounds comprising silsesquioxane units having a side chain including a direct bond between a silicon atom and a norbornane skeleton and having a degree of condensation of substantially 100%, a dimethylene chain of the norbornane skeleton remote from the silicon bonded side is substituted with at least one substituent group other than hydrogen, and an isomer having a bulkier substituent group on the dimethylene chain at an exo position is present in a higher proportion.
US08153835B2 Fullerene derivatives
The present invention provides a fullerene derivative represented by the following formula (1):wherein in formula (1), R1 is a substituted or unsubstituted organic group or a hydrogen atom, and wherein in formulae (2) and (3): W is a single bond, C1-C11, alkylene, C2-C12 alkenylene, or C2-C12 alkynylene, wherein any —CH2— in the alkylene, alkenylene or alkynylene can be substituted with —O—, —S—, —COO—, or —OCO—; Z is an element belonging to group IVB; and R21 to R23 are each independently a substituted or unsubstituted C1-C20 alkyl group, a substituted or unsubstituted C2-C15 alkenyl group, or a substituted or unsubstituted C2-C15 alkynyl group.
US08153833B2 Composition and method for low temperature deposition of silicon-containing films such as films including silicon, silicon nitride, silicon dioxide and/or silicon-oxynitride
Silicon precursors for forming silicon-containing films in the manufacture of semiconductor devices, such as low dielectric constant (k) thin films, high k gate silicates, low temperature silicon epitaxial films, and films containing silicon nitride (Si3N4), siliconoxynitride (SiOxNy) and/or silicon dioxide (SiO2). The precursors of the invention are amenable to use in low temperature (e.g., <500° C.) chemical vapor deposition processes, for fabrication of ULSI devices and device structures.
US08153824B2 Antidepressant oral liquid compositions
The invention provides for the first time an oral liquid composition of duloxetine or its pharmaceutically equivalent derivatives like salts, isomers, complexes, polymorphs, hydrates or esters thereof. The duloxetine or its pharmaceutically equivalent derivative is present from about 2 mg to approximately 200 mg; and a buffering agent was used to stabilize the acid sensitive duloxetine. The composition has duloxetine from about 0.1 meq to about 2.5 mEq per mg of duloxetine. The invention further discloses an oral liquid composition of duloxetine or its pharmaceutically equivalent derivative wherein the degradation product 1-Naphthol is less than 0.01%. Also provided is a method for treating of major depressive disorder and or diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain comprising administering to a mammal in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount of a composition.
US08153819B2 Fungicidal mixtures comprising substituted 1-methylpyrazol-4-ylcarboxanilides
Fungicidal mixtures, comprising as active components 1) at least one 1-methylpyrazol-4-ylcarboxanilides of the formula I where X=O or S, R1=C1-C4-alkyl or C1-C4-haloalkyl, R2=hydrogen or halogen, R3, R4 and R5=independently of one another cyano, nitro, halogen, C1-C4-alkyl, C1-C4-haloalkyl, C1-C4-alkoxy, C1-C4-haloalkoxy or C1-C4-alkylthio; and 2) at least one active compound II, selected from the active compound groups A) to F): A) azoles; B) strobilurins; C) carboxamides; D) heterocyclic compounds; E) carbamates; F) other fungicides; in a synergistically effective amount, methods for controlling harmful fungi using mixtures of at least one compound I and at least one active compound II and the use of the compound(s) I with active compounds II for preparing such mixtures, and also compositions and seed comprising such mixtures.
US08153804B2 Aryl pyridines and methods of their use
Aryl pyridines, compositions comprising them, and methods of their use for the treatment, prevention and management of a variety of diseases and disorders are disclosed.
US08153803B2 Compositions and methods for modulating sirtuin activity
The present invention is based, in part, on our discovery of compounds that inhibit an activity of a sirtuin (e.g., compounds that inhibit or preferentially inhibit an activity of SIRT2) and are therefore believed useful in the treatment or prevention of diseases associated with sirtuin activity. These diseases include, but are not limited to, neurological disorders such as Parkinson's Disease (PD).
US08153795B2 Substituted 1-oxa-3,8-diazaspiro[4.5]-decan-2-one-compounds and the use thereof for producing drugs
The present invention relates to substituted 1-oxa-3,8-diazaspiro[4.5]-decan-2-one compounds, to methods for the production thereof, to medicaments containing these compounds and to the use of these compounds for producing medicaments.
US08153791B2 Substituted pyrimidinyl oxime kinase inhibitors
The present invention is directed to substituted pyrimidine compounds of formula (I): and forms thereof, their synthesis and use for treating, preventing or ameliorating a chronic or acute protein kinase mediated disease, disorder or condition.
US08153785B2 Stabilizing ligands for regulation of protein function
The invention pertains to novel compounds of Formula (I) wherein R1, R2, R3, W, Y, Z, A, m, n, p, and q are defined herein. Such compounds are useful as stabilizing ligands in systems that assist in the determination of protein function.
US08153777B2 Modulation of toll-like receptor 5 expression by antisense oligonucleotides
Antisense oligonucleotide compounds, compositions and methods are provided for down regulating the expression of TLR5. The compositions comprise antisense oligonucleotides targeted to nucleic acids encoding TLR5. The compositions may also comprise antisense oligonucleotides targeted to nucleic acids encoding TLR5 in combination with other therapeutic and/or prophylactic compounds and/or compositions. Methods of using these compounds and compositions for down-regulating TLR5 expression and for prevention or treatment of diseases wherein modulation of TLR5 expression would be beneficial are provided.
US08153775B2 Kits for detecting rank
Isolated receptors, DNAs encoding such receptors, and pharmaceutical compositions made therefrom, are disclosed. The isolated receptors can be used to regulate an immune response. The receptors are also useful in screening for inhibitors thereof.
US08153772B2 Oligonucleotide probes and primers comprising universal bases for diagnostic purposes
Aspects of the invention relate to novel oligonucleotides comprising universal and generic bases for use as primers and probes, as well as, methods of using said oligonucleotides for the diagnosis of disease.
US08153756B2 Fluorine-containing monomer, fluorine-containing polymer and surface treating agent
Disclosed is a fluorine-containing polymer having:(A) a repeating unit derived from a fluorine-containing monomer which is represented by the following formula: CH2═C(—X)—C(═O)—Y—[—(CH2)m—Z—]p—(CH2)n—Rf  (I) (B) a repeating unit derived from a monomer containing no fluorine atom, and if necessary (C) a repeating unit derived from a crosslinkable monomer. This fluorine containing polymer has excellent water repellency, oil repellency and antifouling property.
US08153753B2 Alicyclic or aromatic polyamides, polyamide films, optical members made by using the same, and polyamide copolymers
A polyamide having at least an alicyclic or aromatic group exhibiting a light transmittance of 80% or more in the wavelength region of 450 to 700 nm is produced by using an aramide polymer comprising specific structural units at an amount of 50 mol % or more. Colorless transparent alicyclic or aromatic polyamide films having high rigidity and high thermal resistance are provided by using the polyamide. Further, the invention provides various optical members made by using the polyamide or the polyamide films, and polyamide copolymers.
US08153752B2 Polyols based on modified amino resins, process for their preparation and their use
Disclosed herein is a polyol (A) based on modified amino resins, prepared by reacting: an amino resin (B) comprising three acetalized or etherified N-methylol groups of the general formula (I) >N—CHR—OR1, wherein R is a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group of 1 to 6 carbon atoms or an aryl group of 6 to 10 carbon atoms and R1 is an alkyl group of 1 to 6 carbon atoms; with a polyol (C) of the general formula (II) R2(—OH)n, wherein n is a number from 2 to 6 and R2 is a divalent to hexavalent organic radical; wherein an equivalent ratio of the acetalized or etherified N-methylol groups to the polyol (C) is 0.5:1 to 1.2:1; with elimination of at least 50 mol % of a monoalcohol (D) of the general formula R1—OH, wherein R1 is as defined above, from the amino resin (B).
US08153751B2 Multifunction urethane monomer, method of manufacturing the monomer and photosensitive resin composition including the monomer
Disclosed is a multifunctional urethane monomer prepared by reacting (a) an epoxy compound having two or more epoxy groups, (b) a diol compound having an acidic group and (c) a compound having an ethylenically unsaturated group and an isocyanate group with one another. The photosensitive resin composition comprising the multifunctional urethane monomer has low viscosity, superior sensitivity, excellent chemical resistance and heat-resistance and high development margin.
US08153749B2 Absorbent and a method of production thereof
Synthesis is for an organosilicic adsorbent, which can be used in different economic sectors (chemical and pharmaceutical industries, health service). The adsorbent represents the non-linear reaction product of polycondensation, a polyhydrate of 1,1,3,3-tetrahydroxy-1,3-dimethyldisiloxane having from 88 to 89 moles of water per one mole of 1,1,3,3-tetrahydroxy-1,3-dimethyldisiloxane.The adsorbent is produced by means of mixing 19-20 parts of alkaline solution of sodium dioximethylsiliconate (DOMS) with a density of 1.16-1.19 g/cm3 with 6 parts of sulfuric acid with a density of 1.195-1.205 g/cm3 at a temperature of between 0-5° C. followed by aging of the mixture, followed by addition of water, followed by mixing, followed by breaking up of the solid product resulting in a suspension, followed by the addition of more water to the suspension, then allowing the suspension to settle, followed by removal of the supernatant via decantation, followed by repetition of the settling and decanting steps until the DOMS is removed completely, whereupon the final product is washed with a solution of sulphuric acid until water wash has a pH of 4.0, then the final product is washed with purified water until water wash has a pH of 5.0-7.0 followed by drying.
US08153730B2 Polyolefin blends used as masterbatch concentrates
Polyolefin blends and processes for forming polyolefin blends are described. The process generally includes forming of polyolefin blends with acrylic monomer system comprising: providing a polyolefin comprising a first portion and a second portion; providing a concentrated monomer system comprising an acrylic monomers and the first portion of the polyolefin, wherein the concentrated monomer system comprises the acrylic monomers at a first concentration and a first portion of the polyolefin; and blending the concentrated monomer system with the a second portion of the polyolefin to form a modified polyolefin, wherein the modified polyolefin comprises a second concentration of acrylic monomers that is less than the first concentration. Described blends can be used as masterbatch concentrates.
US08153727B2 Block copolymer, resin composition comprising same, and process for producing the resin composition
A block copolymer comprised of a polymer block or blocks (A) comprising conjugated diene monomer units and a polymer block or blocks (B) comprising conjugated diene monomer units and aromatic vinyl monomer units, wherein (1) the polymer block or blocks (A) have a glass transition temperature in the range of −88 to −45° C., (2) the polymer block or blocks (B) have a glass transition temperature in the range of 30 to 90° C., (3) the content of aromatic vinyl monomer units in the block copolymer is in the range of 30 to 52% by weight based on the total weight of the block copolymer, (4) the block copolymer has an aromatic vinyl block ratio of smaller than 69% by weight based on the total weight of the block copolymer, and (5) the viscosity of a 5% by weight solution of the block copolymer in styrene is at least 5 mPa·s but smaller than 30 mPa·s. This block copolymer is used as a modifier for resin.
US08153716B2 Dispersant for reducing viscosity of particulate solids
The invention provides a dispersant for an aqueous dispersion of positively charged or chargeable solid particulates which comprises a compound having an anchoring moiety linked to a polymeric hydrophilic moiety, the anchoring moiety containing at least one acid and/or hydroxy group and having an overall acidity or neutrality and the polymeric moiety having a lower affinity for the particulate surface than the anchoring moiety. The anchoring moiety preferably contains at least two acid groups, preferably carboxylic acid groups, attached either in a [1,1], [1,2] or [1,3] relationship and is linked to the polymeric moiety, which is preferably derived from acrylamide or methacrylamide monomer units, preferably by a sulfur atom. The dispersant can reduce the viscosity of an aqueous dispersion of positively charged or chargeable solid particulates and can reduce the tendency of the resulting dispersion to form a gel or a yield stress material. The dispersant facilitates the processing of the resulting compositions in manufacturing operations and it may be used, for example, as a component of a coating material, a ceramic, paint, refractory material, filler or in an inkjet recording paper or film. Additionally, the dispersant can allow the use of higher concentrations of solid particulates and enable control of the yield stress, as some yield is often beneficial in helping prevent or reduce sedimentation.
US08153715B2 Aminofunctional polyvinylacetals
Polyvinyl acetals which contain acetal moieties derived by acetalizing polyvinyl alcohol with both aliphatic aldehydes or their derivatives and with amino- and/or ammonium-substituted aldehydes display exceptional substrate adhesion when used in printing ink as binders, allowing inks without adhesion promoters to be produced.
US08153712B2 Crosslinkable rubber composition and cross-linked rubber
A crosslinkable rubber composition comprising 0.2 to 10 parts by weight of an aromatic secondary amine-based anti-aging agent and 0.5 to 20 parts by weight of a polyamine-based crosslinking agent with respect to 100 parts by weight of a nitrile rubber including an α,β-ethylenically unsaturated nitrile unit and an α,β-ethylenically unsaturated dicarboxylic acid monoester unit, and with iodine value of 120 or less. The present invention can provide a crosslinkable rubber composition, providable of a cross-linked rubber excellent in a variety of properties such as mechanical strength and small in compression set, and a cross-linked rubber obtained by cross-linking the rubber composition.
US08153707B2 VOC-free coalescing agent
A film-forming composition including a coalescent aid comprising fatty acid esters of ethylene glycol and/or propylene glycol having the formula R1COO[(EO)x(PO)y]zH wherein R1CO is a linear saturated aliphatic acyl group, or a combination thereof, having from about 6 to about 22 carbon atoms, EO is —CH2CH2O—, PO is —CH2CH(CH3)O— or —CH(CH3)CH2O— or a combination thereof, where the acyl radical is bonded to a carbon atom of the EO or PO radical, and x=0 to about 5, y=about 0 to about 5, the sum of x and y is equal or greater than 0.5, z=1 to about 5, and (x+y)z is less than or equal to 6. It is to be understood that x, y, and z are average values for the composition.
US08153700B2 Roofing system and method
A roof mounting system can include a roof substrate and flashing supportable on the substrate and including an outwardly extending projection having a concave interior side and an aperture extending through the projection between top and bottom surfaces of the flashing. A seal can extend through the aperture and contact at least a portion of the top surface and at least a portion of the bottom surface. The seal can be conformable with the concave interior side and can define a seal aperture substantially aligned with the flashing aperture. A mounting bracket can be supportable on the flashing and can define an aperture sized to receive at least a portion of each of the seal and the projection. A fastener can extend through the mounting bracket aperture, seal aperture, and flashing aperture to inhibit fluid flow through the flashing aperture.
US08153698B2 Method for producing bio-fuel that integrates heat from carbon-carbon bond-forming reactions to drive biomass gasification reactions
A low-temperature catalytic process for converting biomass (preferably glycerol recovered from the fabrication of bio-diesel) to synthesis gas (i.e., H2/CO gas mixture) in an endothermic gasification reaction is described. The synthesis gas is used in exothermic carbon-carbon bond-forming reactions, such as Fischer-Tropsch, methanol, or dimethylether syntheses. The heat from the exothermic carbon-carbon bond-forming reaction is integrated with the endothermic gasification reaction, thus providing an energy-efficient route for producing fuels and chemicals from renewable biomass resources.
US08153697B2 Antifoaming agent for aqueous media
The invention relates to the use of a polyamide prepared from at least one diamine and at least one dicarboxylic acid in a formulation for defoaming aqueous media. The invention also relates to defoamers for aqueous media that comprise such a polyamide.
US08153695B2 Methods for inhibiting post-surgical adhesions
In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a method is provided in which post-surgical adhesions at a surgical site in a patient are inhibited. The method includes topically applying a liquid composition comprising a hydrophobic species, which has a melting point above normal body temperature, to tissue at the surgical site in an amount effective to inhibit the formation of adhesions during healing.
US08153690B2 Cycloalkyl-hydroxyl compounds and compositions for cholesterol management
The present invention relates to novel cycloalkyl-hydroxyl compounds, compositions comprising hydroxyl compounds, and methods useful for treating and preventing a variety of diseases and conditions such as, but not limited to aging, Alzheimer's Disease, cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetic nephropathy, diabetic retinopathy, a disorder of glucose metabolism, dyslipidemia, dyslipoproteinemia, hypertension, impotence, inflammation, insulin resistance, lipid elimination in bile, obesity, oxysterol elimination in bile, pancreatitis, Parkinson's disease, a peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-associated disorder, phospholipid elimination in bile, renal disease, septicemia, Syndrome X, thrombotic disorder. Compounds and methods of the invention can also be used to modulate C reactive protein or enhance bile production in a patient. In certain embodiments, the compounds, compositions, and methods of the invention are useful in combination therapy with other therapeutics, such as hypocholesterolemic and hypoglycemic agents.
US08153680B2 Alkyl indole-3-carbinol-derived antitumor agents
Compounds and methods for treating cancer or inducing apoptosis in proliferating cells. The compounds are shown in formula I: wherein X is selected from hydroxyl, thiol, and amino; Y is selected from carboxyl and sulfonyl; R1, R2, R3, and R4 are selected from hydrogen, lower alkyl, and combinations thereof; R5, R6, and R7 are selected from hydrogen, halo, nitro, amino, methoxy, and combinations thereof; and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof.
US08153675B2 Crystalline form of an alkoxyimidazol-1-ylmethyl biphenyl carboxylic acid
The invention provides a crystalline freebase form of 4′-{2-ethoxy-4-ethyl-5-[((S) -2-mercapto-4-methylpentanoylamino)methyl]imidazol-1-ylmethyl}-3′-fluorobiphenyl-2 -carboxylic acid. This invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising the crystalline compound, processes and intermediates for preparing the crystalline compound, and methods of using the crystalline compound to treat diseases such as hypertension.
US08153673B2 Metalloproteinase inhibitors
Compounds of the formula (I) wherein Z is SO2(N6) or N(R7)SO2 or N(R7)SO2N(R6) useful as metalloproteinase inhibitors, especially as inhibitors of MMP12.
US08153667B2 Tricyclic aromatic and bis-phenyl sulfinyl derivatives
The present invention provides compounds of the structure: wherein the constituent members are defined herein, including pharmaceutical compositions thereof and methods of treating diseases therewith.
US08153662B2 Heterocycles substituted pyridine derivatives and antifungal agent containing thereof
An object of the present invention is to provide an antifungal agent which has excellent antifungal effects and is superior in terms of its physical properties, safety and metabolic stability. According to the present invention, there is disclosed a compound represented by the following formula (I), or a salt thereof: wherein R1 represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, an amino group, a C1-6 alkyl group, a C1-6 alkoxy group or a C1-6 alkoxy C1-6 alkyl group; R2 represents a hydrogen atom, a C1-6 alkyl group, an amino group or a di C1-6 alkylamino group; one of X and Y is a nitrogen atom while the other is a nitrogen atom or an oxygen atom; ring A represents a 5- or 6-member heteroaryl ring or a benzene ring which may have a halogen atom, or 1 or 2 C1-6 alkyl groups; Z represents a single bond, a methylene group, an ethylene group, an oxygen atom, a sulfur atom, —CH2O—, —OCH2—, —NH—, —CH2NH—, —NHCH2—, —CH2S—, or —SCH2—; R3 represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a C1-6 alkyl group, a C3-8 cycloalkyl group, a C6-10 aryl group, a 5- or 6-member heteroaryl group, or 5- or 6-member non-aromatic heterocyclic group which may have 1 or 2 substituents; and R4 represents a hydrogen atom or a halogen atom.
US08153661B2 Controlled delivery system
The present invention relates to novel anesthetic compositions containing a non-polymeric carrier material and an anesthetic, where the compositions are suitable for providing a sustained local anesthesia without an initial burst and having a duration for about 24 hours or longer. Certain compositions are also provided that include a first anesthetic and a second anesthetic. In such compositions, the second anesthetic is a solvent for the first anesthetic and provides an initial anesthetic effect upon administration to a subject. The non-polymeric carrier may optionally be a high viscosity liquid carrier material such as a suitable sugar ester. The compositions can further include one or more additional ingredients including active and inactive materials. Methods of using the compositions of the invention to produce a sustained anesthetic effect at a site in a subject are also provided.
US08153653B2 Amido-tropane derivatives
The present invention relates to a compound of formula I wherein R1, R2 and R3 are each independently hydrogen, lower alkyl, lower alkoxy, cycloalkyl, lower alkyl substituted by halogen or S-lower alkyl; or to a pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salt, racemic mixture, or corresponding enantiomer and/or optical isomer thereof. The compounds of formula I are good inhibitors of the glycine transporter 1 (GlyT-1), and have a good selectivity to glycine transporter 2 (GlyT-2) inhibitors. The compounds can be used in the treatment of neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders.
US08153650B2 N-(amino-heteroaryl)-1H-pyrrolopyridine-2-carboxamides derivatives preparation thereof and their use in therapy
The invention relates to compounds of the general formula (I): Wherein X, Y, Z, Z1, Z2, Z3, Z4 and n are as defined herein. The invention also relates to a method for making the same and to the use thereof in therapy.
US08153638B2 Metabotropic glutamate-receptor-potentiating isoindolones
Compounds of formula I: wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9 and n are as defined in the description, processes for the preparing the compounds, new intermediates employed in the preparation, pharmaceutical compositions containing the compounds, and uses of the compounds in therapy.
US08153629B2 Pharmaceutical compounds
Fused pyrimidines of formula (I): wherein R1-R3, A and n have any of the values described in the specification; and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof; have activity as inhibitors of PI3K and may thus be used to treat diseases and disorders arising from abnormal cell growth, function or behavior associated with PI3 kinase such as cancer, immune disorders, cardiovascular disease, viral infection, inflammation, metabolism/endocrine disorders and neurological disorders. Processes for synthesizing the compounds are also described.
US08153594B2 Tacrolimus standard and methods of using same
A composition and kit useful as a tacrolimus standard solution for immunoassays, and methods for making and using same. The composition and kits include a known amount of tacrolimus or a derivative thereof, and a non-specific protein capable of forming a complex with the tacrolimus or derivative thereof. The standard solution may be used to generate calibration curves for an immunoassay or to check the precision of an analytical instrument.
US08153590B2 Antidotes for factor Xa inhibitors and methods of using the same
The present invention relates antidotes to anticoagulants targeting factor Xa. The antidotes are factor Xa protein derivatives that bind to the factor Xa inhibitors thereby substantially neutralizing them but do not assemble into the prothrombinase complex. The derivatives describe herein lack or have reduced intrinsic coagulant activity. Disclosed herein are methods of stopping or preventing bleeding in a patient that is currently undergoing anticoagulant therapy with a factor Xa inhibitor.
US08153587B2 Orally administering parathyroid hormone and calcitonin
A method for orally administering a parathyroid hormone, PTH, comprising orally co-administering to a patient in need of PTH an effective amount of a PTH and an effective amount of calcitonin. The method according to the invention allows for the oral administration of PTH without the hypercalcemia, hypercalcuria and nephrolithiasis side effects.
US08153581B2 Process for producing an injectable medicament preparation
The invention relates to a method for producing injectable medicament preparations containing a therapeutically and/or diagnostically effective substance which is comprised of an active agent, of a spacer molecule and of at least one protein-binding molecule. After being brought into contact with the body, said therapeutically and/or diagnostically effective substance covalently bonds to the body fluid constituents or tissue constituents via the protein-binding molecule, thus providing a form of transport of the active agent that an be hydrolytically or enzymatically cleaved, according to pH, in the body while releasing the active agent.
US08153580B2 Nogo receptor binding protein
The invention provides Sp35 polypeptides and fusion proteins thereof, Sp35 antibodies and antigen-binding fragments thereof and nucleic acids encoding the same. The invention also provides compositions comprising, and methods for making and using, such Sp35 antibodies, antigen-binding fragments thereof, Sp35 polypeptides and fusion proteins thereof.
US08153565B2 Lubricant composition for a final drive axle
A lubricant composition for a final drive axle oil comprising an oil of lubricating viscosity, one or more dispersants and one or more phosphorus compounds wherein the kinematic viscosity of the lubricant composition at 100° C. is greater than 10 mm2/s and wherein the amount by weight of the dispersant is greater than the amount by weight of the phosphorus compounds and any sulfur compounds which may optionally be present.
US08153560B2 Pesticidal active mixtures comprising aminothiazoline compounds
Pesticidal mixtures comprising aminothiazoline compounds The present invention relates to pesticidal mixtures comprising as active compounds 1) at least one aminothiazoline compound I of the Formula (I) wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5 and R6 are defined in the description; and 2) at least one active compound II selected from a group A comprising acetylcholine esterase inhibitors, GABA-gated chloride channel antagonists, sodium channel modulators, nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonists/antagonists, chloride channel activators, juvenile hormone mimics, compounds affecting the oxidative phosphorylation, inhibitors of the chitin biosynthesis, moulting disruptors, inhibitors of the MET, voltage-dependent sodium channel blockers, inhibitors of the lipidsynthesis and other compounds as defined in the description, in synergistically effective amounts. The invention relates further to methods and use of these mixtures for combating insects, arachnids or nematodes in and on plants, and for protecting such plants being infested with pests, especially also for protecting seeds.
US08153558B2 Method of improving grass quality
The invention relates to a method of improving grass quality comprising applying an effective amount of a composition containing a phthalocyanine to the grass in the substantial absence of phosphorous acid, monoalkyl esters of phosphorous acid, or salts thereof.
US08153552B2 Cement-based composition for the embedding of a boron-containing aqueous solution, embedding process and cement grout composition
Cement-based composition for the embedding of a boron-containing aqueous solution, said composition being composed of a sulphoaluminate cement optionally comprising gypsum, and of a sand.Process for embedding, by cementation, of a boron-containing aqueous solution in which said aqueous solution is kneaded, mixed with said cement-based composition.Cement grout composition thus obtained.
US08153547B2 Photocatalyst material, process for producing the photocatalyst material, and method for decomposing contaminant using the material
This invention provides a photocatalyst material, which can be produced at low cost without using platinum, particularly a visible light response-type photocatalyst material, a material having a photocatalyst mechanism not possessed by the conventional photocatalyst material, a process for producing the material, and a method for decomposing a contaminant using the material. The photocatalyst material comprises a) an oxide of a first metal and b) an aqua complex salt of a second metal. In this case, for the oxide of a first metal, the redox potential of a conduction band lower end in the oxide is on a rather negative side than 0.2 V (a value as measured at pH=0, vs. reference electrode potential). For the aqua complex salt of a second metal, the redox potential of a second metal ion in the aqua complex salt is on a rather negative side than 3.0 V (a value as measured at pH=0, vs. reference electrode potential). In the material, the aqua complex salt of a second metal is chemically adsorbed on the oxide of a first metal.
US08153539B2 Reinforcing fiber texture with multiple-satin weaving for a composite material part
A reinforcing fiber texture for a composite material part is made by multi-layer three-dimensional weaving with a satin type weave or a multiple satin type weave. The texture comprises at least three layers of weft yarns T interlaced by warp yarns C, each warp yarn taking hold in alternation of one weft yarn in n from a first layer of weft yarns and of one weft yarn in n of a second layer of weft yarns adjacent to the first, the number n being an integer not less than 3. The paths of the warp yarns are similar and they are offset in the warp direction.
US08153538B1 Process for annealing semiconductor wafers with flat dopant depth profiles
A process is disclosed for annealing a single crystal silicon wafer having a front surface and a back surface, and an oxide layer disposed on the front surface of the wafer extending over substantially all of the radial width. The process includes annealing the wafer in an annealing chamber having an atmosphere comprising oxygen. The process also includes maintaining a partial pressure of water above a predetermined value such that the wafer maintains the oxide layer through the annealing process. The annealed front surface is substantially free of boron and phosphorus.
US08153532B1 Bilayer dielectric interconnection process
The present invention improves the yield of integrated circuit manufacture by making the circuit more tolerant of varying thicknesses of the InterLayer Dielectric prior to metallization and interconnection. The sensitivity to the thickness of the ILD is reduced by first coating the devices with an etch stop layer, exposing the areas of the devices where interconnections will be made, selectively etching away the etch stop layer over the interconnection areas, adding the Interlayer Dielectric and then finally etching away the ILD to expose the contacts and continuing the processing through interconnection of the devices.
US08153527B2 Method for reducing sidewall etch residue
A method for fabricating a semiconductor device is provided. The method comprising forming a first layer over a substrate and a second layer over the first layer. A patterned masking layer is subsequently provided over the second layer and a patterned second layer with outwardly tapered sidewalls is formed by isotropically etching exposed portions of the second layer. A patterned first layer is the formed by etching the first layer in accordance with the patterned second layer.
US08153521B2 Wafer-level stack package
A wafer-level stack package includes semiconductor chips, first connection members, a second connection member, a substrate and an external connection terminal. The semiconductor chips have a power/ground pad and a signal pad. The first connection members are electrically connected to the power/ground pad and the signal pad of each of the semiconductor chips. The second connection member is electrically connected to at least one of the power/ground pads of each of the semiconductor chips, the power/ground pads being connected to the first connection members. The substrate supports the stacked semiconductor chips, the substrate including wirings that are electrically connected to the first connection members and the second connection member. The external connection terminal is provided on a surface of the substrate opposite to a surface where the semiconductor chips are stacked, wherein the external connection terminals are electrically connected to the wirings, respectively.
US08153518B2 Method for fabricating metal interconnection of semiconductor device
In a method for fabricating a metal interconnection of a semiconductor device, a lower interconnection and a lower insulation layer are formed over a semiconductor substrate. An etch stop layer is formed over the lower insulation layer. An upper insulation layer is formed over the etch stop layer. A first via hole is formed to expose the etch stop layer corresponding to the lower interconnection. A second via hole exposing the lower interconnection is formed by a primary etching process that selectively removes the etch stop layer exposed by the first via hole. A chemical cleaning process is performed on the second via hole, wherein polymer is formed over the surface of the lower interconnection during the chemical cleaning process. The polymer is removed from the second via hole by a secondary etching process using vaporized gas.
US08153513B2 Method and system for continuous large-area scanning implantation process
A method for manufacturing doped substrates using a continuous large area scanning implantation process is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes providing a movable track member. The movable track member is provided in a chamber. The chamber includes an inlet and an outlet. In a specific embodiment, the movable track member can include one or more rollers, air bearings, belt member, and/or movable beam member to provide one or more substrates for a scanning process. The method may also include providing a first substrate. The first substrate includes a first plurality of tiles. The method maintains the first substrate including the first plurality of tiles in a vacuum. The method includes transferring the first substrate including the first plurality of tiles from the inlet port onto the movable track member. The first plurality of tiles are subjected to a scanning implant process. The method also includes maintaining a second substrate including a second plurality of tiles in the vacuum. The method includes transferring the second substrate including a second plurality of tiles from the inlet port onto the movable track member. The method includes subjecting the second plurality of tiles to an implant process using the scanning implant process.
US08153512B2 Patterning techniques
A method of forming a patterned layer, including the steps of: (i) depositing via a liquid medium a first material onto a substrate to form a first body on said substrate; (ii) depositing via a liquid medium a second material onto said substrate to form a second body, wherein said first body is used to control said deposition of said second material so as to form a patterned structure including said first and second bodies; and (iii) using said patterned structure to control the removal of selected portions of a layer of material in a dry etching process or in a wet etching process using a bath of etchant.
US08153509B2 Method of fabricating light emitting diode using laser lift-off technique and laser lift-off apparatus having heater
Disclosed is a method of fabricating a light emitting diode using a laser lift-off apparatus. The method includes growing an epitaxial layer including a first conductive-type compound semiconductor layer, an active layer and a second conductive-type compound semiconductor layer on a first substrate, bonding a second substrate, having a different thermal expansion coefficient from that of the first substrate, to the epitaxial layers at a first temperature of the first substrate higher than a room temperature, and separating the first substrate from the epitaxial layer by irradiating a laser beam through the first substrate at a second temperature of the first substrate higher than the room temperature but not more than the first temperature. Thus, during a laser lift-off process, focusing of the laser beam can be easily achieved and the epitaxial layers are prevented from cracking or fracture. The laser lift-off process is performed by a laser lift-off apparatus including a heater.
US08153505B2 Method for low temperature bonding and bonded structure
A method for bonding at low or room temperature includes steps of surface cleaning and activation by cleaning or etching. The method may also include removing by-products of interface polymerization to prevent a reverse polymerization reaction to allow room temperature chemical bonding of materials such as silicon, silicon nitride and SiO2. The surfaces to be bonded are polished to a high degree of smoothness and planarity. VSE may use reactive ion etching or wet etching to slightly etch the surfaces being bonded. The surface roughness and planarity are not degraded and may be enhanced by the VSE process. The etched surfaces may be rinsed in solutions such as ammonium hydroxide or ammonium fluoride to promote the formation of desired bonding species on the surfaces.
US08153503B2 Protection of cavities opening onto a face of a microstructured element
The invention relates to a method for protecting the interior of at least one cavity (4) having a portion of interest (5) and opening onto a face of a microstructured element (1), consisting of depositing, on said face, a nonconformal layer (6) of a protective material, in which said nonconformal layer closes off the cavity without covering the portion of interest.The invention also relates to a method for producing a device comprising such a microstructured element.
US08153499B2 Method for fabrication of a semiconductor device and structure
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor wafer, the method including: providing a base wafer including a semiconductor substrate, metal layers and first alignment marks; transferring a monocrystalline layer on top of the metal layers, wherein the monocrystalline layer includes second alignment marks; and performing a lithography using at least one of the first alignment marks and at least one of the second alignment marks.
US08153491B2 Non-volatile memory semiconductor device having an oxide-nitride-oxide (ONO) top dielectric layer
A non-volatile memory (NVM) cell includes a silicon substrate having a main surface, a source region in a portion of the silicon substrate, a drain region in a portion of the silicon substrate, and a well region disposed in a portion of the silicon substrate between the source and drain regions. The cell includes a bottom oxide layer formed on the main surface of the substrate. The bottom oxide layer is disposed on a portion of the main surface proximate the well region. The cell includes a charge storage layer disposed above the bottom oxide layer, a dielectric tunneling layer disposed above the charge storage layer and a control gate formed above the dielectric tunneling layer. The dielectric tunneling layer includes a first oxide layer, a nitride layer and a second oxide layer. Erasing the NVM cell includes applying a positive gate voltage to inject holes from the gate.
US08153490B2 Fabrication method of power semiconductor structure with reduced gate impedance
A fabrication method of a power semiconductor structure with reduced gate impedance is provided. Firstly, a polysilicon gate is formed in a substrate. Then, dopants are implanted into the substrate with the substrate being partially shielded by the polysilicon gate. Afterward, an isolation layer is formed to cover the polysilicon gate. Thereafter, a thermal drive-in process is carried out to form at least a body surrounding the polysilicon gate. Then, the isolation layer is removed to expose the polysilicon gate. Afterward, a metal layer is deposited on the dielectric layer and the polysilicon gate, and a self-aligned silicide layer is formed on the polysilicon gate by using a thermal process.
US08153480B2 Air cavity package for flip-chip
According to an example embodiment, there is method (100) for manufacturing a semiconductor device in an air-cavity package. For a device die having an active surface, a lead frame is provided (5), the lead frame has a top-side surface and an under-side surface, the lead frame has predetermined pad landings on the top-side surface. A laminate material is applied (10) to the top-side surface of the lead frame. In the laminate material, an air-cavity region and contact regions are defined (15, 20, 25, 30, 35). The contact regions provide electrical connections to the predetermined pad landings on the lead frame. With the active circuit surface in an orientation toward the laminate material, the device die is mounted (40, 45). The bond pads of the active surface circuit are connected with ball bonds to the predetermined pad landings on the lead frame. An air-cavity is formed between the active surface of the device die and the top-side surface of the lead frame.
US08153475B1 Back-end processes for substrates re-use
A method for fabricating optical devices on a reusable handle substrate. The method includes providing a handle substrate having a surface region. The method also includes forming a plurality of optical device using at least an epitaxial growth process overlying the surface region and then releasing the handle substrate from the plurality of optical devices. The method reuses the handle substrate for another fabrication process.
US08153473B2 Module having a stacked passive element and method of forming the same
A module having a discrete passive element and a semiconductor device, and method of forming the same. In one embodiment, the module includes a patterned leadframe, a discrete passive element mounted on an upper surface of the leadframe, and a thermally conductive, electrically insulating material formed on an upper surface of the discrete passive element. The module also includes a semiconductor device bonded to an upper surface of the thermally conductive, electrically insulating material.
US08153467B2 Semiconductor device with groove structure to prevent molding resin overflow over a light receiving region of a photodiode during manufacture and method for manufacturing same
A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device, includes the steps of: forming a resin layer on an upper surface of a substrate including a photodiode such that the resin layer does not cover a light receiving region of the photodiode; forming at least one groove in the resin layer so as to surround the light receiving region; and subsequently mold-sealing the photodiode by loading the substrate into a mold and filling the mold with a molding resin.
US08153458B2 Image sensing devices and methods for fabricating the same
Image sensing devices and methods for fabricating the same are provided. An exemplary image sensing device comprises a first substrate having a first side and a second side opposing each other. A plurality of image sensing elements is formed in the first substrate at the first side. A conductive via is formed through the first substrate, having a first surface exposed by the first substrate at the first side and a second surface exposed by the first substrate at the second side. A conductive pad overlies the conductive via at the first side and is electrically connecting the image sensing elements. A conductive layer overlies the conductive via at the second side and electrically connects with the conductive pad. A conductive bump is formed over a portion of the conductive layer. A second substrate is bonded with the first substrate at the first side.
US08153455B2 Method for enhancing light extraction efficiency of light emitting diodes
A method for enhancing light extraction efficiency of a light emitting diode is disclosed. The method includes the steps of providing a light emitting diode including in sequence a substrate, a first layer of a first conduction type, an active layer, and a second layer of a second conduction type opposite to the first conduction type; growing a number of protrusions on at least one layer selected from the first layer, the active layer, and the second layer of the light emitting diode to form a patterned oxide layer for protecting the light emitting diode from etch; controlling height of the protrusions to achieve a predetermined etching depth of the light emitting diode; dry etching through a portion of the light emitting diode which is not protected by the patterned oxide layer to form a plurality of depressions on the light emitting diode; and removing the oxide layer from the selected layer. The light emitting diode is patterned so that more light beams can be emitted. Therefore, light extraction efficiency is enhanced.
US08153453B2 Betavoltaic battery with a shallow junction and a method for making same
This is a novel SiC betavoltaic device (as an example) which comprises one or more “ultra shallow” P+N− SiC junctions and a pillared or planar device surface (as an example). Junctions are deemed “ultra shallow”, since the thin junction layer (which is proximal to the device's radioactive source) is only 300 nm to 5 nm thick (as an example). In one example, tritium is used as a fuel source. In other embodiments, radioisotopes (such as Nickel-63, promethium or phosphorus-33) may be used. Low energy beta sources, such as tritium, emit low energy beta-electrons that penetrate very shallow distances (as shallow as 5 nm) in semiconductors, including SiC, and can result in electron-hole pair creation near the surface of a semiconductor device rather than pair creation in a device's depletion region. By contrast, as a high energy electron penetrates a semiconductor device surface, such as a diode surface, it produces electron hole-pairs that can be collected at (by drift) and near (by diffusion) the depletion region of the device. This is a betavoltaic device, made of ultra-shallow junctions, which allows such penetration of emitted lower energy electrons, thus, reducing or eliminating losses through electron-hole pair recombination at the surface.
US08153451B2 System and method for performing semiconductor processing on target substrate
A semiconductor process system (10) includes a measuring section (40), an information processing section (51), and a control section (52). The measuring section (40) measures a characteristic of a test target film formed on a target substrate (W) by a semiconductor process. The information processing section (51) calculates a positional correction amount of the target substrate (W) necessary for improving planar uniformity of the characteristic, based on values of the characteristic measured by the measuring section (40) at a plurality of positions on the test target film. The control section (52) controls a drive section (30A, 32A) of a transfer device (30), based on the positional correction amount, when the transfer device (30) transfers a next target substrate (W) to the support member (17) to perform the semiconductor process.
US08153449B2 Microwave integrated circuit package and method for forming such package
A method for packaging a semiconductor device. The method includes: providing a dielectric layer over the semiconductor device; determining patterns and placement of material on the dielectric layer to provide a predetermined magnetic or electric effect for the device, such effects being provided on the device from such patterned and placed material solely by electrical or magnetic waves coupled between such material and the device; and forming the material in the determined patterns and placement to provide the predetermined effects.
US08153446B2 Fluorogenic compounds converted to fluorophores by photochemical or chemical means and their use in biological systems
Fluorophores derived from photoactivatable azide-pi-acceptor fluorogens or from a thermal reaction of an azide-pi-acceptor fluorogen with an alkene or alkyne are disclosed. Fluorophores derived from a thermal reaction of an alkyne-pi-acceptor fluorogen with an azide are also disclosed. The fluorophores can readily be activated by light and can be used to label a biomolecule and imaged on a single-molecule level in living cells.
US08153442B2 Stabilization of signal generation in particles used in assays
Methods and reagents are disclosed for conducting assays. Embodiments of the present methods and reagents are concerned with a solid support such as, for example, a particle. The support includes a chemiluminescent composition that includes a metal chelate. The present inventors observed that, when such support such as, e.g., particles, were employed in assays for the determination of an analyte, stability of signal output by the chemiluminescent composition associated with the particle was unacceptably reduced as compared to particles including other chemiluminescent compositions. In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, the stability of signal output from such particles is enhanced by including in a medium that contains the particles a sufficient amount of one or more stabilizing agents, which may be a chelating agent and/or a metal chelate such as, for example, the metal chelate that is associated with the particle.
US08153433B1 Mammalian cell lines for increasing longevity and protein yield from a cell culture
Disclosed are compositions and methods for increasing the longevity of a cell culture and permitting the increased production of proteins, preferably recombinant proteins, such as antibodies, peptides, enzymes, growth factors, interleukins, interferons, hamiones, and vaccines. Cells transfected with an apoptosis-inhibiting gene or vector, such as a triple mutant Bcl-2 gene, can survive longer in culture, resulting in extension of the state and yield of protein biosynthesis. Such transfected cells exhibit maximal cell densities that equal or exceed the maximal density achieved by the parent cell lines. Transfected cells can also be pre-adapted for growth in serum-free medium, greatly decreasing the time required to obtain protein production in serum-free medium. In certain methods, the pre-adapted cells can be used for protein production following transformation under serum-free conditions. The method preferably involves eukaryotic cells, more preferably mammalian cells.
US08153421B2 Prostate stem cell
We describe a method for the isolation of prostate stem cells, typically prostate stem cells which express CD 133 antigen; stem cells and cancer stem cells isolated by the method and their use.
US08153414B2 Microbial delivery system
The present invention provides methods and compositions for treating or preventing allergic responses, particularly anaphylactic allergic responses, in subjects who are allergic to allergens or susceptible to allergies. Methods of the present invention utilize administration of microorganisms to subjects, where the microorganisms produce allergens and protect the subjects from exposure to the allergens until phagocytosed by antigen-presenting cells. Particularly preferred microorganisms are gram-negative bacteria, gram-positive bacteria, and yeast. Particularly preferred allergens are proteins found in foods, venoms, drugs and latex that elicit allergic reactions and anaphylactic allergic reactions in individuals who are allergic to the proteins or are susceptible to allergies to the proteins. The proteins may also be modified to reduce the ability of the proteins to bind and crosslink IgE antibodies and thereby reduce the risk of eliciting anaphylaxis without affecting T-cell mediated Th1-type immunity.
US08153402B2 Emulsion compositions
An emulsion is useful in allowing a wide variety of gene products to be expressed via eukaryotic in vitro expression. The emulsion comprises a silicone based surfactant, a hydrophobic phase and a hydrophilic phase; wherein the hydrophilic phase comprises a plurality of compartments containing a functional in vitro eukaryotic expression system.
US08153397B2 Recombinant light chains of botulinum neurotoxins and light chain fusion proteins for use in research and clinical therapy
The present invention relates to the construction, expression, and purification of synthetic or recombinant light chain (LC) botulinum neurotoxin genes from all botulinum neurotoxin serotypes. The methods of the invention can provide 1.1 g of the LC per liter of culture. The LC product is stable and proteolytically active. Methods of using the products of the invention are described.
US08153396B2 Method for producing a casein hydrolysate
The present invention relates to a method for producing a casein hydrolysate using a microbial endopeptidase.
US08153383B2 Mycobacterial culture screening test for Mycobacterium avium complex bacteria
A method of antigen-capture assays that uses the detection of antigens secreted into liquid culture is provided. Also provided are antibodies to Mycobacterium avium complex-specific antigens, and diagnostic kits and systems for the detection of the presence of mycobacteria in liquid samples.
US08153375B2 Compositions and methods for nucleic acid sequencing
Compositions and methods for nucleic acid sequencing include template constructs that comprise double stranded portions in a partially or completely contiguous constructs, to provide for redundant sequence determination through one or both of sequencing sense and antisense strands, and iteratively sequencing the entire construct multiple times. Additional sequence components are also optionally included within such template constructs. Methods are also provided for the use and preparation of these constructs as well as sequencing compositions for their application.
US08153374B2 Heat flow polymerase chain reaction methods
Methods and systems for polymerase chain reactions (PCR) that are capable of detecting amplified DNA during or after the PCR process. The methods and systems may utilize DSC or DTA analysis techniques.
US08153373B2 Capture and characterized co-localized chromatin (4C) technology
The present invention relates in one aspect to a method for analyzing the frequency of interaction of a target nucleotide sequence with one or more nucleotide sequences of interest (e.g., one or more genomic loci) comprising the steps of: (a) providing a sample of cross-linked DNA; (b) digesting the cross-linked DNA with a primary restriction enzyme; (c) ligating the cross-linked nucleotide sequences; (d) reversing the cross linking; (e) digesting the nucleotide sequences with a secondary restriction enzyme; (f) ligating one or more DNA sequences of known nucleotide composition to the available secondary restriction enzyme digestion site(s) that flank the one or more nucleotide sequences of interest; (g) amplifying the one or more nucleotide sequences of interest using at least two oligonucleotide primers, wherein each primer hybridises to the DNA sequences that flank the nucleotide sequence of interest; (h) hybridising the amplified sequence(s) to an array; and (i) determining the frequency of interaction between the DNA sequences.
US08153369B2 Assessment of risk for colorectal cancer
Disclosed is a method for identifying an individual who has an altered risk for developing colorectal cancer comprising detecting a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP).
US08153360B2 Flavivirus fusion inhibitors
The present invention provides an isolated peptide having an amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO:1 to SEQ ID NO:36, as well as derivatives thereof comprising various N-terminal and C-terminal chemical moieties, substituted analogs thereof, and fragments thereof. The peptides of the invention are useful for treating and preventing a Flavivirus invention. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising the peptides, and methods of treating or preventing Flavivirus infections, are also provided.
US08153357B2 Photosensitive composition remover
A photosensitive composition remover used for removal of an uncured photosensitive composition, which remover comprises 1 to 80 percent by mass of at least one type of aromatic hydrocarbon having 9 carbon atoms or more within the molecule. The photosensitive composition remover further comprises an aprotic polar solvent and/or another solvent other than aprotic polar solvents. The photosensitive composition remover is effective for removal of an uncured photosensitive composition film deposited at the periphery, edges, or back of a substrate or removal of an uncured photosensitive composition deposited at the surface of system members or equipment in a process for forming a photosensitive composition film on a glass substrate, a semiconductor wafer, or the like. It is preferably used for removal of a photosensitive composition containing a pigment.
US08153355B2 Immersion supporting plate cleaning method and a pattern forming method
An immersion supporting plate cleaning method of cleaning an immersion supporting plate provided around a substrate to be processed in immersion exposure. An immersion boundary between an immersion area contact part and an immersion area noncontact part on the immersion supporting plate formed when an immersion area is moved according to a predetermined exposure area and an exposure map is determined in advance. Then, the immersion supporting plate is cleaned while a cleaning jig is being moved along the determined immersion boundary.
US08153352B2 Multicolored mask process for making display circuitry
A process for forming a pixel circuit is disclosed comprising: (a) providing a transparent support; (b) forming a multicolor mask having at least four different color patterns; (c) forming integrated electronic components of the pixel circuit having at least four layers of patterned functional material comprising a first conductor, a dielectric, a semiconductor, and a second conductor each layer of patterned functional material corresponding to the four different color patterns of the multicolor mask. The functional material is patterned using a photopattern corresponding to each color pattern.
US08153349B2 Polymer composition, hardmask composition having antireflective properties, and associated methods
A polymer composition includes an aromatic ring-containing polymer represented by Formula 1: wherein m and n satisfy the relations 1≦m<190, 0≦n<190, and 1≦m+n<190.
US08153337B2 Photomask and method for fabricating source/drain electrode of thin film transistor
A photomask for fabricating a thin film transistor (TFT) is disclosed. The photomask includes a translucent layer disposed on a transparent substrate and covering U-shaped and rectangular channel-forming regions of the transparent substrate. First and second light-shielding layers are disposed on the translucent layer and located at the outer and inner sides of the U-shaped channel-forming region, respectively, and third and fourth light-shielding layers are disposed on the translucent layer and located at opposite sides of the rectangular channel-forming region, respectively, to serve as source/drain-forming regions. An end of the third light-shielding layer extends to the first light-shielding layer. A plurality of first light-shielding islands is disposed on the translucent layer and located within the rectangular channel-forming region. A method for fabricating source/drain electrodes of a TFT is also disclosed.
US08153335B2 Lithography masks, systems, and manufacturing methods
Lithography masks, lithography systems, methods of manufacturing lithography masks, methods of altering material layers of semiconductor devices, and methods of manufacturing semiconductor devices are disclosed. In one embodiment, a lithography mask includes a first pattern for at least one material layer of at least one die, the first pattern being oriented in a first position. The lithography mask includes a second pattern for at least one material layer of the at least one die, the second pattern being oriented in a second position. The second position is different than the first position.
US08153330B2 Fuel cell separator stacked on an electrolyte electrode assembly
A fuel cell separator has a sandwiching section. The sandwiching section is connected to a fuel gas manifold through a bridge, and connected to an oxygen-containing gas manifold through a bridge. The circumferential length R of the sandwiching section, the width H of the bridges the length L of the bridges, and the outer diameter D of the manifolds satisfies relationships of 0.03≦H/R≦0.20, 0.01≦L/R≦0.55, and 0.06≦D/R≦0.32.
US08153327B2 Interconnector for high temperature fuel cells
In a high-temperature fuel cell at least one electroconductive agent is provided for contacting an anode with an interconnector. Side edges of the interconnector are electrically connected with the anode by the electroconductive agent. Electrically nonconductive spring-loaded elements are provided between the anode and the interconnector for permitting relative movement therebetween.
US08153324B2 Controlled-release vapor fuel cell
A controlled-release fuel cell comprising (a) a proton exchange membrane having a first surface and a second surface, a fuel electrode or anode being coupled to the first surface, and an oxidant electrode or cathode being coupled to the second surface; (b) a fuel flow field plate having surface channels positioned in front of the anode with the channels containing therein a controlled-release material that retains a liquid fuel at or below an ambient temperature, but releases the fuel at a temperature higher than an activation temperature to deliver a fuel vapor to the anode; (c) heating means in heat-supplying relation to the controlled-release material to activate fuel vapor release on demand at a desired rate; and (d) fuel supply means that feeds the liquid fuel to the controlled-release material. The invented fuel cell is compact and lightweight, with significantly reduced fuel crossover and improved fuel utilization efficiency. The fuel cell is particularly useful for powering small vehicles and portable devices such as a notebook computer, a personal digital assistant, a mobile phone, and a digital camera.
US08153323B2 Method for using a fuel cell comprising a regeneration step by lowering the temperature
A fuel cell supplies power to a load under nominal conditions. A method for using the fuel cell comprises at least one regeneration step of the performances of the fuel cell by temporarily lowering its temperature below the nominal operating temperature. The regeneration step, performed during a preset time, can be triggered periodically or when the voltage at the terminals of the fuel cell or the fuel cell temperature is lower than a threshold. The performances of the fuel cell, in particular its voltage, can thereby be maintained substantially constant during long periods of use.
US08153321B2 Fuel cell system having switching fuel flow
A fuel cell system (100) includes two supply passages (30, 32) for supplying the hydrogen to the anode (14). Valves (22, 23) which control flow amounts of the hydrogen passing through the two supply passages (30, 32) are provided. An exhaust passage (34) which outputs exhaust gas from the anode (14) is provided on the supply passage, and a valve (24) is also provided. When the valve (24) on the exhaust passage (34) is closed, the flow amount ratios of the hydrogen passing through the two supply passages (30, 32) are varied in time. Therefore, impurities such as nitrogen can be diffused. Thereby, a hydrogen purge amount can be reduced.
US08153320B2 Pressure regulating valve, fuel cell system using same, and hydrogen generating facility
A pressure regulating valve comprises a first pressure deformation portion which receives a pressure on a fuel demand side, a second pressure deformation portion opposed to the first pressure deformation portion and which receives a predetermined pressure, first and second flow passages, and a communication passage for allowing the first and second flow passages to communicate with each other. The first and second flow passages and the communication passage are provided in a space between the first and second pressure deformation portions. A valve member has a connecting portion which extends through the communication passage and connects the first and second pressure deformation portions together, and has a valve element which is provided at the connecting portion and closes the communication passage when moved toward the second pressure deformation portion. When the pressure on the fuel demand side is lower than a predetermined value, the valve element does not close the communication passage, but when the pressure on the fuel demand side is equal to or higher than the predetermined value, the valve element closes the communication passage.
US08153313B2 Hybrid voltage supply apparatus, method of controlling the same, and electronic system employing the same as power supply
A hybrid voltage supply apparatus, a method of controlling the same, and an electronic system employing the hybrid voltage supply apparatus as a power supply are provided. The hybrid voltage supply apparatus includes a hybrid voltage supply apparatus including a main power supply, an auxiliary power supply, and a first voltage adjustment unit which operates in any one of a feed-forward driving mode and a feed-back driving mode according to at least one operating parameter of the main power supply, and adjusts an output voltage of the main power supply to a first predetermined DC voltage.
US08153312B2 Fuel cell system
A fuel cell system includes a fuel cell body to generate electrical energy using a reaction of hydrogen and oxygen; a reformer to generate a reformed gas containing hydrogen by reforming fuel and to supply the reformed gas to the fuel cell body; a fuel tank to store the fuel in a partially liquefied state and to supply the fuel to the reformer; a case to encase the fuel cell body and the reformer; and a refrigeration unit attached to the case to store ambient air of the fuel tank, the ambient air of the fuel tank being cooled by latent heat of vaporization of the fuel.
US08153301B2 Cathode compositions for lithium-ion electrochemical cells
Provided are compositions useful as cathodes for lithium-ion batteries. The compositions include lithium mixed metal oxides of the formula, Li[LixNiyMnz]O2, whereinx+y+z=1, 0
US08153293B2 Sandwich cathode electrochemical cell with wound electrode assembly
A new design for a cathode having a configuration of: SVO/first current collector/CFx/second current collector/SVO is described. The two cathode current collectors are vertically aligned one on top of the other in a middle region or zone of the cathode. This coincides to where a winding mandrel will be positioned to form a wound electrode assembly with an anode. The overlapping region of the two current collectors helps balance the expansion forces of the exemplary SVO and CFx active material layers. This, in turn, helps maintain a planar cathode that is more amenable to downstream processing. The use of two current collectors on opposite sides of an intermediate cathode active material also provides for enhanced reliability when cathodes are wound from the center as they lend structural integrity to outer portions of the wind.
US08153264B2 Surface covering which is hardened in several stages
The invention relates to a method of sealing at least part of the surface of an article, comprising the steps of (a) applying a layer of a radiation-curable melt based on a moisture-crosslinking polyurethane to at least part of the surface of the article, and (b) irradiating the melt layer. The invention further relates to article surfaces sealed in this way, and also to the use of the abovementioned melt for surface sealing.
US08153259B2 Ceramic sheet product and method of manufacturing the same
There is provided a ceramic sheet product having a binder layer separately formed in a lower portion thereof to increase stackability and to reduce generation of pores after binder burnout, and a method thereof. The ceramic sheet product includes a binder layer formed of a binder resin; and a ceramic green sheet form on the binder layer. This reduces an amount of high polymer binder in a ceramic slurry, increasing a ceramic powder fraction. Due to such a high density of the green sheet, the number of pores formed after the binder burnout is very small, which decreases volume shrinkage and increases density.
US08153258B2 Molded assembly having a reduced tendency to squeak and a method of manufacturing the assembly
The invention relates to a molded assembly having reduced squeaking and rattling. The molded assembly includes a first component of a vehicle that has a first surface. The assembly also includes a second component of a vehicle having a second surface. The second component is assembled to the first component. An isolator is disposed between the first and second components and is secured to the first surface. The isolator comprises an injection-moldable self-lubricating elastomer impregnated with a fatty amide. An interface between the isolator and the second surface has a ratio of a co-efficient of static friction to a co-efficient of dynamic friction less than 1.4.
US08153257B2 Capped particles comprising multi-block copolymers for use in lubricants
The present invention relates to capped particle additives for use in lubricant compositions, to processes for producing the additives, and to the use of the additives in lubricants and in systems that are lubricated. When used in a lubricant to lubricate a metallic surface of a workpiece, the capped particle preferably adhere to the metallic surface of the workpiece.
US08153255B2 Ceramic particle group comprising sintered particles of hydroxyapatite
A ceramic particle group dispersed in a solvent in a state of primary particles of single crystal, a method for production thereof and a use thereof are disclosed. In one embodiment a method is disclosed for producing a sintered particle (ceramic particle) group of hydroxyapatite (HAp), which includes a step of subjecting a system wherein calcium carbonate is present between primary particles of hydroxyapatite (HAp) to sintering and then dissolving calcium carbonate with water to remove calcium carbonate. A hydroxyapatite (HAp) sintered particle group produced by the above method is a nanometer size particle group having a particle diameter of about 70 to about 120 nm, and is a particle group having a uniform particle diameter (coefficient of variation: 12%), and further 96% of the particle group is dispersed as a single crystal particle.
US08153253B2 Conjugate fiber-containing yarn
A conjugate fiber-containing yarn containing side-by-side or eccentric core-in-sheath conjugate fibers each composed of a polyester component and a polyamide component, that can be crimped by heating, and that has properties of increasing its crimp ratio when it absorbs moisture or water and is excellent in windbreaking and warmth-retaining properties, has a wool-like soft and bulky hand, and is capable of forming a fabric in which a see-through property is not increased even when wetted with water.
US08153251B2 Pressure-sensitive adhesive composition and pressure-sensitive adhesive sheets
An object of the present invention is to provide an electrostatic pressure-sensitive adhesive composition which is excellent in antistatic property of pressure-sensitive adhesive sheets upon peeling, and has reduced stainability in an adherend (subject to be protected) and is excellent in adhesion reliance, and electrification preventing pressure-sensitive adhesive sheets and a surface protecting film using the same. There is provided a pressure-sensitive adhesive composition, which comprises a (meth)acryl-based polymer containing, as a monomer component, 15 to 100% by weight of a (meth)acrylic acid alkylene oxide adduct, 0 to 85% by weight of a (meth)acryl-based monomer having an alkyl group of a carbon number of 1 to 14 other than the adduct, and 0 to 85% by weight of other polymerizable monomer, and an alkali metal salt.
US08153245B2 Composite product
An exemplary composite product and method of manufacturing is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes dewatering a first slurry through a dewatering belt to form a first substrate layer, applying a first functional layer onto at least a portion of the first substrate layer, and dewatering a second slurry through the dewatering belt to form a second substrate layer. A first side of the second substrate layer may be overlayed onto the first functional layer, and the layers may be cured, and the layers bonded.
US08153244B2 Reinforcement patches with unidirectionally-aligned fibers
Reinforcement patches comprising a mastic and a plurality of unidirectionally-aligned fibers at least partially embedded in a first major surface of the mastic are described. Generally, at least 90% of the unidirectionally-aligned fibers are oriented having an axis of alignment within +/−10 degrees of the average axis of alignment of the unidirectionally-aligned fibers. Reinforcement patches that include an encapsulating resin and a cover layer are also described. Methods of reinforcing a panel using reinforcement panels, and panels reinforced with the patches are also disclosed.
US08153238B2 Stretch bonded laminate including an elastic member containing an adhesive composition
Elastic composite laminates are disclosed. The laminates include an elastic member bonded to at least one facing material. In accordance with the present disclosure, an adhesive composition is coextruded with an elastomeric material to form the elastic member. In this manner, the elastic member can be bonded to the facing material in a stretched state without having to apply a separate adhesive layer between the two materials. In one embodiment, the elastic member can be bonded to the facing material according to a pattern that includes bonded areas and non-bonded areas.
US08153236B2 Roof covering for a building having a roof with structured roof tiles and a structure projecting out from the roof surface, such as a chimney, a window, a wall, or ventilating pipe
A roof covering for a building having a roof with structured roof tiles and a structure projecting out from the roof surface, such as a chimney, a window, a wall, or ventilating pipe. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims. Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.
US08153233B2 Patterned coatings having extreme wetting properties and methods of making
A surface with superhydrophobic and hydrophilic or superhydrophilic regions can be made. The hydrophilic or superhydrophilic regions can selective collect water on the surface.
US08153229B2 Epoxy resin composition for fiber-reinforced composite material
Provided is an epoxy resin composition for fiber-reinforced composite materials, which serves as a matrix resin for a prepreg. This epoxy resin composition is improved in tackiness stability during storage, while maintaining mechanical characteristics. The epoxy resin composition for fiber-reinforced composite materials is characterized by containing 25 to 50 parts by weight of an amine curing agent (B) selected from aliphatic polyamines, alicyclic polyamines and aromatic polyamines, and 1 to 20 parts by weight of an organic acid dihydrazide compound (C) having a melting point of not less than 150° C., per 100 parts by weight of an epoxy resin (A).
US08153220B2 Metallic T-joint patch
A metallic T-joint patch is provided for application to intersecting and overlapping portions of a single ply membrane system of different heights. When applied to the joint formed by the intersecting and overlapping membranes, the metallic joint patch having an adhesive layer conforms to the void formed by the joint and assures a water tight seal. A method of making a metallic joint patch and a method of applying a metallic joint patch to a void formed by intersecting and overlapping membranes are also disclosed.
US08153215B1 Multilayer structure based on polyamides and tube or conduit with multilayer structure
The invention concerns a multilayer structure based on polyamides, particularly suitable for making tubes or conduits for transporting liquid fluids such as alcohol's, liquid fuels, fuel containing oxygen-containing compounds such as, for example alcohol's or refrigerating fluids. The multilayer structure comprises two superposed layers: at least one internal layer and at least one external layer. The invention is characterized in that at least the internal layer is based a composition comprising at least one thermoplastic polyamide and at least one agent modifying resistance to shocks in a weight proportion between 10 and 50% of said composition, and at least the external layer is based on a composition containing as polymeric matrix a polyamide composition selected among the group comprising: (i) a thermoplastic copolymer obtained by copolymerization of ε-caprolactam with at least one of the monomers selected among the group comprising: an aminoacid containing at least 9 carbon atoms, or the corresponding lactam, a mixture of hexamethylenediamine with a diacid comprising at least 9 carbon atoms, the weight ratio between the ε-caprolactam and the total hexamethylenediamine and diacid and/or aminoacid ranging between 4 and 9, or (ii) a mixture of at least said thermoplastic copolymer and at least a second thermoplastic polyamide or copolyamide obtained by polymerization of monomers containing less than 9 carbon atoms. The weight content of the second polymer or copolymer in the polymeric matrix is between 0 and 80 wt. %, preferably between 0 and 40 wt. %. The multilayer structure has high barrier properties against fuel vapor and good mechanical properties such as good resistance to cracking.
US08153214B2 Multilayer laminated film for packages
A multilayer laminated film for packages, constituted by a first layer made of plastic material and by at least one second layer made of material chosen among plastic material, metallic material, paper-like material or equivalent materials; each layer is coupled to the adjacent layer by means of an intercalated layer of adhesive material. The multilayer laminated film has, on at least one face of the more rigid layer of plastic material, a plurality of continuous, parallel, side-by-side incisions, which are adapted to facilitate a reduction of the breaking load at right angles to the direction of the incisions. The incisions are obtained by removing material and affect only partially the thickness of the more rigid layer.
US08153213B2 Polyimide polysiloxane intermediate transfer members
An intermediate transfer media, such as a belt of a polyimide/polyetherimide/polysiloxane, a polyimide polysiloxane, a mixture of a polyimide/polyetherimide/polysiloxane and a polyimide polysiloxane, and copolymers and block copolymers thereof.
US08153212B2 Ink jet recording medium
The invention provides an ink jet recording medium excellent in light fastness, gas fastness and uniform ink absorption. The ink jet recording medium has a substrate and an ink receiving layer provided on at least one surface of the substrate. The ink receiving layer contains a compound represented by the general formula (1): wherein R1, R2 and R3 are individually a linear or branched alkyl group having 1 to 20 carbon atoms, with the proviso that at least one of R1, R2 and R3 has a hydroxyl group.
US08153202B2 Method of manufacturing a layered silicone composite material
A method of manufacturing a layered silicone composite material comprising the steps of: applying a second addition-curable organopolysiloxane composition that contains a second adhesion promoter onto a first silicone layer that is formed by curing a first addition-curable organopolysiloxane composition containing a first adhesion promoter and where the first silicone layer has a hardness of less than JIS A 50; and forming a second silicone layer that has hardness of JIS A 50 or more by curing said second addition-curable organopolysiloxane composition.
US08153198B2 Fluoropolymer solutions, coatings and coated articles
Provided are coatable solutions of copolymers of 1,2,3,3,3-pentafluoropropylene and tetrafluoroethylene, processes for preparing coated articles, films, and coated articles.
US08153185B2 Method of forming spacer
It is an object to enable sharp-cornered concave/convex portions to be easily formed when forming a spacer 7 for an electron-beam light-emitting display panel. A composition containing a second resin solution using a solvent in which a first resin cannot be dissolved and a spacer material is applied onto a first intermediate layer 9 constructed by the spacer material and the first resin and dried, thereby forming a second intermediate layer 11 constructed by the spacer material and the second resin. After an obtained laminated layer was patterned into a first plane shape, the first intermediate layer 9 is patterned into a second plane shape thinner than the first plane shape by using a solvent in which the first resin can be dissolved and the second resin cannot be dissolved and is baked, thereby forming the spacer.
US08153175B2 Method of producing GABA-containing fermented product
It is intended to provide a method of efficiently producing a fermented fruit or vegetable product which contains GABA at an elevated concentration without damaging the inherent flavor of the fruit or the vegetable. A method of producing a fermented product containing γ-aminobutyric acid which is characterized by comprising fermenting a plant or its press juice by using Enterococcus avium in the presence of glutamic acid or its salt and sake cake or its extract.
US08153169B1 Method of preparing herbal medicine for treating female infertility
The various embodiments herein provide a herbal medicine for treatment of infertility in women. The medicine includes a tea-spoon of corncockle powder and a tea-spoon of turmeric powder dissolved in a sheep oil. The embodiments herein also provide a method of preparing a medicine for treatment of infertility. According to the method, a corncockle powder and a turmeric powder are prepared and mixed with an animal oil to form a liquid mixture. The mixture is kept for 24 hrs at room temperature. Moreover, the embodiments herein also provide a method of treating infertility in a patient by injecting a dose of 2 cc to 10 cc of the prepared medicine in the vagina of the patient for 3 consecutive days immediately after a completion of a menstrual cycle using a disposable or reusable syringe without a needle.
US08153168B2 Stabilized anthocyanin Compositions
The invention describes stabile anthocyanin compositions, methods to prepare such compositions and also methods of use of such compositions to treat various afflictions. The present invention describes unique compositions of an anthocyanin and a stabilizing compound such that the combination of the two components provides that the anthocyanin does not readily undergo degradation, such as oxidation, pH instability, etc.
US08153156B2 Hydrogel nanocompsites for ophthalmic applications
The present invention relates to reversible hydrogel systems. Particularly, the hydrogel of the present invention is made up of copolymers that can be a hydrogel when in an oxidize state and can be a solution when in a reduced state. A solution of the copolymer can be oxidized to form a hydrogel; and the hydrogel can be reduced to form a solution of the copolymer. Reversible nanogels can also be formed from a dilute solution of the copolymers. The hydrogel is formed with nanoparticles embedded therein to form a nanocomposite whose refractive index and modulus can be controlled by varying the amounts of nanoparticles and the polymer concentration of the hydrogel, respectively.
US08153152B2 Oral drug delivery system
Dosage forms and drug delivery devices suitable for administration of pharmaceutical compounds and compositions, including the oral drug administration of compounds.
US08153147B2 Heparin coating of biological tissue
The present invention discloses an in vitro method to provide biological tissue with a heparin coating comprising the following steps; linking a biotin reagent to biological tissue, linking an avidin reagent to the biotinylated biological tissue, and linking a heparin reagent to the formed layer of avidin on the biological tissue thus forming a heparin coating. The invention further discloses a heparin coating on biological tissue, the use of a heparin coating, and the biological tissue coated with a heparin layer according to the method.
US08153145B2 Formulations of bifenthrin and enriched cypermethrin
The present invention is directed to novel insecticidal compositions comprising bifenthrin and enriched cypermethrin, the compositions are physically stable when diluted with water.
US08153140B2 Chimeric MSP-based malaria vaccine
The invention provides an immunogenic composition comprising MSP-8 linked to an antigen. Methods of using the composition to induce an immune response in an animal are also provided.
US08153134B2 Anti-MDL-1 antibodies
Antibodies to human MDL-1 are provided, as well as uses thereof, e.g., in treatment of immune disorders, in particular, infectious diseases and sepsis.
US08153120B2 Methods for inducing a natural killer (NK) cell-mediated immune response and for increasing NK cell activity
The present invention relates to the discovery of novel methods of inducing a natural killer (NK) cell-mediated immune response and increasing NK activity in a mammal for the treatment of tumors and virus infections. The method comprises the steps of isolating peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from the subject, exposing the PBMCs in vitro to protein conjugate comprising granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) covalently linked to a soluble peptide antigen, under conditions effective to activate the PBMCs, and administering the activated PBMCs to the subject. The invention also relates to a method of detecting in a subject a cytotoxic NK cell-meditated immune response or NK cell activity in vitro by CD336 expression and/or lysis of the K562 tumor line. The invention further relates to a method for determining whether a subject has had a therapeutically effective response to a protein conjugate by assessing the NK activity of activated PBMCs from the subject.
US08153119B2 Engineered enzymatically active bacteriophage and methods for dispersing biofilms
The present invention is directed to engineered enzymatically active bacteriophages that are both capable of killing the bacteria by lysis and dispersing the bacterial biofilm because they have been also engineered to express biofilm-degrading enzymes, particularly dispersin B (DspB), an enzyme that hydrolyzes β-1,6-N-acetyl-D-glucosamine, a crucial adhesion molecule needed for biofilm formation and integrity in Staphylococcus and E. coli, including E. coli K-12, as well as clinical isolates.
US08153118B2 Method for altering the metabolism of plant
The invention is related to a method of altering the metabolism of a plant by carrying out the steps of treating seeds of the plant with non-genetically engineered selected mutant pink-pigmented facultative methylotroph having a plant altering capability, and growing the plants from the treated seeds, wherein the plants that grow from such treated seeds exhibit an altered characteristic relative to non-treated plants.
US08153116B2 Use of conditional plasmodium strains lacking an essential gene in malaria vaccination
The present invention relates to a malaria vaccine for administration to a host, comprising an attenuated malarial parasite with a gene that has been rendered non-functional, wherein the gene, when present in naturally occurring form, encodes a protein necessary for continued in vivo survival and proliferation of the parasite and/or for infection of host red blood cells. The gene that has been rendered non-functional can be, e.g., a gene that encodes a nutrient transporter protein or a gene that encodes an enzyme involved in phospholipid biosynthesis. The invention also provides kits and methods that include such attenuated malarial parasites.
US08153115B2 Virus-like particles for treatment of viral infections
The invention provides virus-like particles for treatment of viral infections based on the virus causing the infection. The virus-like particles comprise the virus recombinant proteins that form a capsid, recombinant virus membrane proteins attached to the capsid and vRNA packaged within said capsid. The vRNA is generated from a DNA sequence encoding a polypeptide capable of specifically binding to a constant region of a nonstructural protein of the virus that is essential for propagation of the virus.
US08153108B2 Hair cosmetic product
A hair cosmetic product has a two agent type hair cosmetic which comprises a first agent containing an alkali agent and a second agent containing hydrogen peroxide, wherein at least one of the first and second agents contains a surfactant; and a foamer vessel which discharges a mixed liquid comprising the first and second agents in the form of foam. Another hair cosmetic product has a two agent type hair cosmetic which contains a first agent that includes an alkali agent and a second agent that includes hydrogen peroxide, and which is used after mixing the first and second agents immediately prior to use, and a foamer vessel from which a mixed liquid of the first and second agents is discharged in the form of foam. A surfactant is contained in the mixed liquid at an amount of 0.1 to 10 wt %, and the viscosity of the mixed liquid at 25° C. is 1 to 300 mPa·s.
US08153106B1 Silicone based sun screening compositions with improved UVA1/UV ratios
The present invention is directed to a synergistic blend of a sunscreen agent, specifically avobenzone and a specific class of ester that results in substantially improved sunscreen effectiveness, improving the performance of the sunscreen formulation as determined by the star system.
US08153104B2 Pharmaceutical formulations for dry powder inhalers comprising a low-dosage strength active ingredient
The invention provides a formulation to be administered as dry powder for inhalation suitable for efficacious delivery of low-dosage strength active ingredients to the low respiratory tract of patient. In particular, the invention provides a formulation comprising microparticles constituted of microparticles of a low-dosage strength active ingredient and microparticles of an excipient wherein the MMD of the microparticles is comprised between 2 and 15 micron, at least 10% of the microparticles has a mass diameter (MD) higher than 0.5 micron, and the process of preparation thereof.
US08153101B2 Methods and compositions for F-18 labeling of proteins, peptides and other molecules
The present application discloses compositions and methods of synthesis and use of F-18 labeled molecules of use, for example, in PET imaging techniques. In particular embodiments, the labeled molecules may be peptides or proteins, although other types of molecules including but not limited to aptamers, oligonucleotides and nucleic acids may be labeled and utilized for such imaging studies. In preferred embodiments, the F-18 label may be conjugated to a targeting molecule by formation of a metal complex and binding of the F-18-metal complex to a chelating moiety, such as DOTA, NOTA, DTPA, TETA or NETA. In other embodiments, the metal may first be conjugated to the chelating group and subsequently the F-18 bound to the metal. In other preferred embodiments, the F-18 labeled moiety may comprise a targetable conjugate that may be used in combination with a bispecific or multispecific antibody to target the F-18 to an antigen expressed on a cell or tissue associated with a disease, medical condition, or pathogen. Exemplary results show that F-18 labeled targetable conjugate peptides are stable in human serum at 37° C. for several hours, sufficient time to perform PET imaging analysis.
US08153100B2 Methods and compositions for F-18 labeling of proteins, peptides and other molecules
The present application discloses compositions and methods of synthesis and use of 18F or 19F labeled molecules of use in PET or MRI imaging. The labeled molecules may be peptides or proteins, although other types of molecules may be labeled. Preferably, the 18F or 19F is conjugated to a targeting molecule by formation of a metal complex and binding of the 18F- or 19F-metal complex to a chelating moiety. Alternatively, the metal may first be conjugated to the chelating group and subsequently the 18F or 19F bound to the metal. In other embodiments, the 18F or 19F labeled moiety may comprise a targetable construct used in combination with a bispecific antibody to target a disease-associated antigen. The 18F or 19F labeled targetable construct peptides are stable in serum at 37° C. for a sufficient time to perform PET or MRI imaging.
US08153098B2 Surface-modified indium-tin oxides
Surface-modified indium-tin oxides are produced by mixing the oxides with the surface-modifying agent in liquid or vapor form and heat treating the mixture. They can be used to produce coating systems.
US08153097B2 Method for manufacturing ferrite powder, ferrite powder, and magnetic recording medium
A method for manufacturing ferrite powder comprises a step (a) of causing a precursor, obtained by a liquid-phase reaction method, to pass through a sieve with openings of 2 mm or less, and a step (b) of causing free fall, through the interior of a furnace tube heated to the range 750 to 1250° C. by a heater, of the precursor which has passed through the sieve. In the process of causing free fall through the interior of the furnace tube heated by the heater, ferrite powder, which is a single phase of hexagonal ferrite, is obtained by heating the precursor to a prescribed temperature and holding the precursor at the prescribed temperature.
US08153093B2 Process for producing carbonate particles
To provide a process for producing carbonate particles, capable of efficient, easy formation of carbonate particles which have high crystallinity, less prone to agglomeration and offer orientation birefringence, particularly carbonate particles that are needle- or rod-shaped, and of controlling the particle size. In the process a metal ion source and a carbonate ion source are heated together in a liquid of 55° C. or higher for reaction to produce carbonate particles with an aspect ratio of greater than 1, wherein the metal ion source contains at least one metal ion selected from the group consisting of Sr2+, Ca2+, Ba2+, Zn2+ and Pb2+. The carbonate particles are preferably needle- or rod-shaped, pH of the liquid after heating reaction is preferably 8.20 or more, and in its X-ray diffraction spectrum the full-width at half maximum of the diffraction peak corresponding to (111) plane is preferably less than 0.8°.
US08153084B2 Reduction in eddy current losses in electrically conducting sample materials with the assistance of special NMR sample tubes
A sample tube for an NMR probe head, which extends along a z axis and has an internal cavity that extends in an axial direction of the z axis, is open to the outside at the axially upper end, is closed at the axially lower end and contains a liquid NMR sample substance during operation, wherein the cross-sectional surface of this cavity extending perpendicularly to the z axis and parallel to the xy coordinate plane has an elongated shape in the direction of the x axis with maximum dimensions a in the y direction and b in the x direction, wherein a
US08153083B2 Uninterrupted flow pump apparatus and method
This invention describes a method for pumping or delivering fluids utilizing a flexible vessel subject to controlled pressures within another pressure vessel. The pressure vessel can be sourced with positive and/or negative (e.g., vacuum) pressure.
US08153076B2 System and process for production of aniline and toluenediamine
A method for producing aniline or toluenediamine is disclosed which comprises forming a dispersion comprising hydrogen gas bubbles dispersed in a liquid medium comprising either nitrobenzene or dinitrotoluene, wherein the hydrogen gas bubbles have a mean diameter less than 1 micron; and subjecting the dispersion to hydrogenation reaction promoting conditions comprising pressure less than about 600 kPa and temperature less than about 200° C., whereby at least a portion of the nitrobenzene or dinitrotoluene is hydrogenated to form aniline or toluenediamine, respectively. A system for carrying out the method is also disclosed.
US08153072B2 Hydrolysis catalyst with larger duct cross-sections in the peripheral portion than in the central portion, and method for hydrolysis of a uric substance
A hydrolysis catalyst forming part of an exhaust system for a combustion engine for catalytically converting a uric substance to ammonia which can be used in a downstream SCR catalyst. The hydrolysis catalyst includes an active catalyst element with a central portion and a surrounding peripheral portion, both of which are lined with the same catalyst material. To ensure that injected urea, or other uric substance, which can become crystallized, does not cause blockages in the catalyst, the cross-sectional areas of separate ducts in the peripheral portion are larger than the cross-sectional areas of the separate ducts in the central portion. A method for hydrolysis of a uric substance by use of the catalyst and directing flow through the ducts of the peripheral portion upon blockage of ducts in the central portion.
US08153062B2 Analyte detection via electrochemically transported and generated reagent
Electrochemical devices, methods, and systems for detecting and quantifying analytes are disclosed. A chemical detection reagent is locally generated in a test solution by electrochemical reaction of a precursor compound caused to migrate into the test solution from a precursor solution separated from the test solution by a cell separator. This approach provides precise metering of the reagent, via the charge passed, and avoids the need to store a reagent solution that may be chemically unstable. In one embodiment, the starch concentration in a colloidal solution can be measured via spectroscopic detection of a blue complex formed by the interaction of starch with iodine produced, on demand, by electrochemical oxidation of iodide ion. The approach may also be used to characterize certain types of analytes. The invention is amenable to automation and is particularly useful for on-line monitoring of production processes, including the inclusion of feed back loop mechanisms for process control.
US08153061B2 Storage and supply system for clinical solutions used in an automatic analyzer
A fluid handling system adapted to provide storage and supply of a number of liquid solutions to an automatic clinical analyzer having three different bottle-like containers, a collapsible plastic-metal-plastic pouch having a mouth-like opening, a fitment to be sealed within mouth-like opening a septum within the fitment, and open meal band or cap to seal the septum into the fitment.
US08153056B2 Hardened martensitic steel, method for producing a component from this steel and component obtained in this manner
The invention relates to steel which is characterized by the following composition as expressed in percentages by weight:—C=0.18 0.30%, —Co=5-7%, —Cr=2-5%, —Al=1-2%, —Mo+W/2=1-4%, —V=trace 0.3%, —Nb=trace 0.1%, —B=trace−50 ppm, —Ni=10.5-15% with Ni≧7+3.5 Al, —Si=trace 0.4%, —Mn=trace 0.4%, —Ca=trace−500 ppm, —Rare earths=trace−500 ppm, —Ti=trace−500 ppm, —O=trace−200 ppm if the steel is obtained by means of powder metallurgy or trace−50 ppm if the steel is produced in air or under a vacuum from molten metal, —N=trace−100 ppm, —S=trace−50 ppm, —Cu=trace−1%, and —P=trace−200 ppm, the remainder comprising iron and the inevitable impurities resulting from production. The invention also relates to a method of producing a part from said steel and to the part thus obtained.
US08153054B2 High-temperature alloy
An iron-based high-temperature alloy is disclosed which contains the following chemical composition: 20% by weight Cr; 5 to 6% by weight Al; 4% by weight Ta; 4% by weight Mo; 3 to 4% by weight Re; 0.2% by weight Zr; 0.05% by weight B; 0.1% by weight Y; 0.1% by weight Hf; 0 to 0.05% by weight C; and remainder Fe and unavoidable impurities. The alloy can be produced at low cost and can possess outstanding oxidation resistance and good mechanical properties at temperatures up to 1200° C.
US08153046B2 Wall forming system
A wall forming system utilizing flowable construction materials, such as concrete, to construct walls. The wall forming system comprises a wall forming assembly and a method of using the wall forming assembly to form a wall having an exterior surface. The wall forming assembly comprises an exterior first panel having a plurality of openings therethrough and a second panel. The first and second panels are spaced apart so that a cavity is formed therebetween for receiving the flowable construction material. The flowable construction material will flow through the openings in the exterior panel and extend beyond an external surface of the exterior panel. The flowable construction material that extends beyond the external surface can be shaped to form various surface designs. The exterior panel and the flowable construction material become a substantially monolithic structure when the flowable construction material is set.
US08153042B2 Two component curable compositions
A two component reactive composition is described, each component, before they are mixed together, contains a filler having thin platelet structure, e.g. a nanoclay, and a further filler that interacts with the platelets. The individual components can have a filler loading that makes them flowable and therefore the components can readily be mixed together for ready dispensing. When the components are mixed thoroughly together, the resulting resin may have a viscosity higher than that of the individual components. The loading of the filler is preferably chosen so that the resulting blended resin is capable of being applied on to a vertical surface without experiencing significant slump. The viscosity of the mixed material can be up to 5 to 10 times or more than that of the individual components before mixing. The composition can be used in adhesives, modelling pastes, coatings, sealants, putties, mastics, stopping compounds, caulking materials, encapsulants and surface coatings.
US08153034B2 Flexible protective coating
A composition made up of an inorganic fire-retardant having at least a bimodal distribution of particle sizes.
US08153030B2 Method of manufacturing conductive particle, anisotropic conductive adhesive having the same, and method of manufacturing display apparatus using the same
In an anisotropic conductive adhesive containing a conductive particle, the conductive particle includes a resin particle that is provided with a cavity formed therein and a conductive layer surrounding a surface of the resin particle. The cavity is formed by mixing the resin particle with a reactant and partially removing the reactant from the resin particle. Thus, the conductive particle may readily absorb an external pressure, thereby providing an improved malleability to the conductive particle.
US08153028B2 Anticorrosion additives for manufacturing processes, a process for preparation thereof and use thereof
The present invention relates to novel anticorrosion additives for manufacturing processes, comprising at least one triazole and the reaction product of at least one alkylene glycol and at least one carboxylic anhydride, to a process for preparation thereof and to the use thereof for corrosion protection for aluminum and/or aluminum alloys.
US08153027B2 Methods for producing syngas
This invention features methods and apparatus for producing syngas from any carbon-containing feed material. In some embodiments, a substoichiometric amount of oxygen is used to enhance the formation of syngas. In various embodiments, both oxygen and steam are added during the conversion of the feed material into syngas. The syngas can be converted to alcohols, such as ethanol, or to other products.
US08153023B2 Phosphor, method for production thereof, and light-emitting apparatus
A phosphor represented by M1(x1)M2(x2)M312(O,N)16, wherein M1 denotes one or more metal elements selected from Li, Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba, Y, La, Gd and Lu, M2 denotes one or more metal elements selected from Ce, Pr, Eu, Tb, Yb and Er, M3 denotes one or more metal elements selected from Si, Ge, Sn, B, Al, Ga and In, and x1 and x2 satisfy 0
US08153020B1 Hydrogen-storing hydride complexes
A ternary hydrogen storage system having a constant stoichiometric molar ratio of LiNH2:MgH2:LiBH4 of 2:1:1. It was found that the incorporation of MgH2 particles of approximately 10 nm to 20 nm exhibit a lower initial hydrogen release temperature of 150° C. Furthermore, it is observed that the particle size of LiBNH quaternary hydride has a significant effect on the hydrogen sorption concentration with an optimum size of 28 nm. The as-synthesized hydrides exhibit two main hydrogen release temperatures, one around 160° C. and the other around 300° C., with the main hydrogen release temperature reduced from 310° C. to 270° C., while hydrogen is first reversibly released at temperatures as low as 150° C. with a total hydrogen capacity of 6 wt. % to 8 wt. %. Detailed thermal, capacity, structural and microstructural properties have been demonstrated and correlated with the activation energies of these materials.
US08153017B2 Substrate treating method
A substrate treating apparatus for heating a treating solution formed of a chemical and a diluent, and immersing substrates in the treating solution for treatment. The apparatus includes a treating tank for storing the treating solution, a heater for heating the treating solution, a temperature detector for detecting temperature of the treating solution, a temperature controller for controlling the heater so that a detected temperature of the treating solution reaches a set temperature, a supplementing device for supplement the treating tank with the diluent, a concentration detector for detecting concentration of the treating solution, and a concentration controller, operable only when the temperature detector detects the treating solution being in a temperature range close to the set temperature, for controlling the supplementing device to adjust an amount of the diluent supplemented so that the concentration of the treating solution detected by the concentration detector becomes slightly higher than a boiling-point concentration corresponding to the set temperature of the treating solution.
US08153005B1 Retention/detention pond stormwater treatment system
Materials, compositions, substances and methods and systems for stormwater treatment in wet ponds, dry ponds and a green roof system. A first embodiment provides in-situ treatment unit within the retention pond by withdrawing the stored stormwater to circulate the stored stormwater into the in-situ treatment unit to sorb nitrogen from the stored stormwater. A second embodiment provides uses a riprap apron, a perforated riser located at the bottom of the riprap apron and a geotextile media encased in a sorption media jacket around the perforated riser. A third embodiment provides a green roof stormwater treatment system that includes protection for waterproofing and insulating the roof, a pollution control media layer for filtration and sorption of solids and dissolved materials found in stormwater, a growing media for growing vegetation, and a cistern to store the runoff stormwater between irrigation events. The green roof system includes recycling runoff stormwater by irrigating the green roof with the stored stormwater.
US08152992B2 Cell-based sensing: biological transduction of chemical stimuli to electrical signals (nose-on-a-chip)
Methods and compositions for the reliable detection of chemical stimuli using a “nose-on-a-chip” are presented. The invention uses cells sensitive to chemical stimuli and detects and processes the signals given by the cells upon contact with chemical stimuli.
US08152987B2 Method for ensuring and monitoring electrolyzer safety and performances
There is described a method for ensuring and monitoring electrolyzer safety and performances in a manufacturing process which uses at least one electrolyzing cell containing at least one cathode and at least one anode separated by a membrane, comprising the step of: determining a safe single voltage operation range depending of the current and corresponding to the normally working electrolyzing cell; determining a reference voltage deviation depending on the time derivation of the current; measuring the voltage over time at the terminals of the electrolyzing cell; determining the measured voltage deviation by calculating the time derivative of the measured voltage; comparing the measured voltage to the safe single voltage operation range and the measured voltage deviation to the reference voltage deviation over time; stopping the manufacturing process when the measured voltage is outside the safe single voltage operation range or the difference between the measured voltage deviation and the reference voltage deviation is outside a predetermined range or a single voltage behavior is different than the average of a group of reference cells.
US08152982B2 Coating line and process for forming a multilayer component coating on a substrate
A process for forming a multilayer composite coating on a substrate is provided. The process includes forming an electrodeposition coating layer on the substrate by electrodeposition of a curable electrodepositable coating composition over at least a portion of the substrate. Optionally, the coated substrate is heated to a temperature and for a time sufficient to cure the electrodeposition coating layer. A basecoating layer is formed on the electrodeposition coating layer by depositing an aqueous curable basecoating composition directly onto at least a portion of the electrodeposition coating layer. Optionally, the basecoating layer is dehydrated. A top coating layer is formed on the basecoating layer by depositing a curable top coating composition which is substantially pigment-free directly onto at least a portion of the basecoating layer. The top coating layer, the basecoating layer, and, optionally, the electrodeposition coating layer are cured simultaneously.
US08152977B2 Multichannel potentiostat having an adjustable counter-electrode potential
The multichannel potentiostat comprises a reference terminal, a counter-electrode terminal, and at least two working terminals, respectively designed to be connected to a reference electrode, a counter-electrode and at least two working electrodes of an electrochemical cell. The potentiostat comprises first and second regulating circuits to apply a setpoint voltage respectively between the first and second working terminals and the reference terminal. The potentiostat comprises a control circuit of the counter-electrode voltage applied to the counter-electrode terminal. The control circuit comprises a first input terminal connected to a predefined potential and a second input terminal to which a regulating voltage representative of at least one of the voltages of the working terminals is applied.
US08152976B2 AG-based alloy sputtering target
The invention relates to an Ag-based alloy sputtering target including at least one element selected from the group consisting of Ti, V, W, Nb, Zr, Ta, Cr, Mo, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Al, and Si in a total amount of 1 to 15% by weight, in which the Ag-based alloy sputtering target has an arithmetic mean roughness (Ra) of 2 μm or more and a maximum height (Rz) of 20 μm or more at a sputtering surface thereof.
US08152972B2 Method for forming fine particles, method for forming concavities and convexities, and device for forming fine particles
A method of the present invention for forming fine particles includes forming fine particles on a substrate by supplying, in the presence of inert gas, to the substrate, atoms or molecules of a supply material capable of being combined with a material constituting a surface of the substrate to produce a compound, the atoms or the molecules being supplied from a supply source. The supply source is positioned in such a manner as not to be directly connected by a line with the surface of the substrate where the fine particles are to be formed, and a high-frequency voltage varying positively and negatively, ranging from 100 kHz to 100 MHz, is applied to at least one of the substrate and a substrate supporter for supporting the substrate. This realizes a method for forming fine particles that allows forming highly uniformed magnetic fine particles with a periodic pattern through a simple process at a time.
US08152965B2 Method and device for emptying the floor of a soda recovery boiler
The invention is related to a method for emptying a furnace floor in a soda recovery boiler when the soda recovery boiler is being shut down. The emptying may be started while smelt is still flowing in smelt spouts. The floor is emptied by sucking smelt from the furnace with a smelt eductor. The invention is also related to a device for removing smelt and wash water from a furnace of a soda recovery boiler by means of suction. Negative pressure is generated in the device by conducting pressurized gas into a suction pipe of the eductor so that the pressurized gas is discharged in the discharge direction of smelt and wash water.
US08152960B2 Lignocellulosic fibrous material made of wood
The invention relates to a wood-based lignocellulosic fibrous material having a tearing length of more than 8 km at 15° SR and a lignin content of at least 15%, based on the unbleached oven-dry fibrous material, for coniferous wood and having a tearing length of more than 5.0 km at 20° SR and a lignin content of at least 12%, based on the unbleached oven-dry fibrous material, for deciduous wood.
US08152957B2 Fabric creped absorbent sheet with variable local basis weight
An absorbent cellulosic sheet having a variable local basis weight includes a papermaking-fiber reticulum provided with (a) a plurality of elongated densified regions of compressed papermaking fibers, the densified regions being oriented generally along the machine direction (MD) of the sheet and having a relatively low local basis weight, as well as leading and trailing edges at their longitudinal extremities, and (b) a plurality of fiber-enriched, pileated regions connected with the plurality of elongated densified regions, the pileated regions having (i) a relatively high local basis weight and (ii) a plurality of cross-machine direction (CD) extending crests having concamerated CD profiles such that the extending crests of the pileated regions are arcuate and extend around the leading and trailing edges of the plurality of elongated densified regions.
US08152954B2 Showerhead electrode assemblies and plasma processing chambers incorporating the same
The present invention relates generally to plasma processing and, more particularly, to plasma processing chambers and electrode assemblies used therein. According to one embodiment of the present invention, an electrode assembly is provided comprising a thermal control plate, a silicon-based showerhead electrode, and securing hardware, wherein the silicon-based showerhead electrode comprises a plurality of partial recesses formed in the backside of the silicon-based showerhead electrode and backside inserts positioned in the partial recesses. The thermal control plate comprises securing hardware passages configured to permit securing hardware to access the backside inserts. The securing hardware and the backside inserts are configured to maintain engagement of the thermal control plate and the silicon-based showerhead electrode and to permit disengagement of the thermal control plate and the silicon-based showerhead electrode while isolating the silicon-based electrode material of the silicon-based showerhead electrode from frictional contact with the securing hardware during disengagement.
US08152951B2 Multi-lumen catheter with separate distal tips
A multi-lumen catheter including tip sections distal to a dividing point, the tip sections releasably joined by a method that produces a variable separation force between the tip sections along a length thereof. An increasing separation force may be imparted to the tip sections by providing an increasing bond strength in fusion zones from a distal portion of the tip sections toward the dividing point.
US08152947B2 Method for producing display device
A method for producing a display device includes: (a) coating a resin composition on at least one of a display part and a protective part, (b) closely adhering the display and protective parts via a resin composition interposed therebetween, and (c) arranging the cured resin layer between the display and protective parts by curing the resin composition by irradiating UV rays on an external side of the protective part. If a defect is detected, the method includes: (d) separating the display and protective parts by applying a wire to a side face of the cured resin layer where the protective and display parts are bonded and moving the wire through the cured resin layer, (e) peeling off and removing the cured resin adhered to the separated display and protective parts by a removing solution which contains an organic solvent, and (f) repeating steps (a) to (c).
US08152942B2 Method of hardening surface of metallic part, piston, cylinder head, and cylinder block each produced using the surface-hardening method, and process for producing the same
With regard to a surface hardening method wherein a surface of an engine member is coated with an alloy layer having high abrasive resistance so as to improve the life of the member and a production method of a piston or the like wherein abrasive resistance of the member is improved by the hardening method, a surface of a metal base material is coated uniformly with a mixture including metal powder, a binder and a solvent so as to form a coat, and the coat is dried and applied thereon with a laser or electron beam so as to be sintered and dispersed for forming an alloy layer on a surface of the metal base material and for bonding the alloy layer to the metal base material.
US08152939B2 Non-heat treated connecting rod and method of manufacturing the same
A non-heat treated connecting rod which comprises, by mass %, C: 0.25-0.35%, Si: 0.50-0.70%, Mn: 0.60-0.90%, P: 0.040-0.070%, S: 0.040-0.130%, Cr: 0.10-0.20%, V: 0.15-0.20%, Ti: 0.15-0.20% and N: 0.002-0.020%, and the balance Fe and impurities, with chemical compositions being less than 0.80 in the value of C+(Si/10)+(Mn/5)+(5Cr/22)+1.65 V−(5S/7) using the symbol of the element as its content, the microstructure of the Big end of the said connecting rod being ferrite-pearlite, all-region hardness of the said big end being 255 to 320 in Vickers hardness, the ferrite-region hardness in the said ferrite-pearlite of the Big end being 250 or more in Vickers hardness and the ratio of the said ferrite-region hardness to the said all-region hardness of the said Big end being 0.80 or more, is excellent in machinability, fracture splitting ability, and fatigue resistance, although no Pb at all is added. Therefore, this non-heat treated connecting rod can be utilized as a low cost type connecting rod in automobile engines or the like.
US08152938B2 Hardened martensitic steel, method for producing a component from this steel and component obtained in this manner
The invention relates to steel which is characterized by the following composition as expressed in percentages by weight: —C=0.18 0.30%, —Co=5-7%, —Cr=2-5%, —Al=1-2%, —Mo+W/2=1-4%, —V=trace 0.3%, —Nb=trace 0.1%, —B=trace—50 ppm, —Ni=10.5-15% with Ni≧7+3.5 Al, —Si=trace 0.4%, —Mn=trace 0.4%, —Ca=trace—500 ppm, —Rare earths=trace—500 ppm, —Ti=trace—500 ppm, —O=Trace—200 ppm if the steel is obtained by means of powder metallurgy or trace—50 ppm if the steel is produced in air or under a vacuum from molten metal, —N=trace—100 ppm, —S=trace—50 ppm, —Cu=trace—1%, and —P=trace—200 ppm, the remainder including iron and the inevitable impurities resulting from production. The invention also relates to a method of producing a part from said steel and to the part thus obtained.
US08152928B2 Substrate cleaning method, substrate cleaning system and program storage medium
A substrate cleaning method can uniformly removing particles from substrates at a high removing efficiency. The substrate cleaning method includes the steps of immersing substrates W in a cleaning liquid in a cleaning tank 12, and generating ultrasonic waves in the cleaning liquid contained in the cleaning tank. A region in the cleaning tank toward which the cleaning liquid is supplied is varied with respect to a vertical level in the step of generating ultrasonic waves in the cleaning liquid while the cleaning liquid is being supplied into the cleaning tank.
US08152918B2 Methods for epitaxial silicon growth
Methods of cleaning substrates and growing epitaxial silicon thereon are provided. Wafers are exposed to a plasma for a sufficient time prior to epitaxial silicon growth, in order to clean the wafers. The methods exhibit enhanced selectivity and reduced lateral growth of epitaxial silicon. The wafers may have dielectric areas that are passivated by the exposure of the wafer to a plasma.
US08152908B2 Micromachined gas chromatography columns for fast separation of Organophosphonate and Organosulfur compounds and methods for deactivating same
Improved microcolumns and methods for producing microcolumns particularly suitable for use in gas chromatographs are disclosed. In particular, following deposition of the stationary phase coating, the microcolumns are subjected to a postcoating treatment with a molecule that binds to the active sites in the stationary phase column thereby eliminating or reducing loss of gas chromatograph performance associated with those active sites. The postcoating treatment molecule binds to the same active sites as the analytes of interest.
US08152904B2 Liquid degas system
A medical ultrasound system. A base unit is included having system electronics, a user interface and ultrasound control electronics. An ultrasound therapy head is in electronic communication with the base unit. The therapy head includes a replaceable, sealed transducer cartridge with a coupling fluid therein. A cooling system is provided for cooling the coupling fluid. A plurality of guide indicators are positioned around the therapy head to align with crossed lines on a patient so as to properly align the therapy head prior to use. The therapy head can provide variable treatments to an area while the therapy head is in contact with a patient.
US08152898B2 Helium recovery process
Helium is recovered from gas streams containing high concentrations of hydrogen gas and low concentrations of helium gas, such as from the recycle stream from the production of ammonia. The inventive process provides for an integrated process for the recovery of both an enriched helium gas stream product and a high purity hydrogen gas stream product.
US08152893B2 One dimension nano magnetic wires and manufacturing method thereof
A manufacturing method of one dimension nano magnetic wires is provided. In the method, the one dimension nano magnetic wires having high magnetization and low coercive force are synthesized from a liquid by means of reduction with an applied magnetic field under normal atmospheric temperature and pressure. The one dimension nano magnetic wire is selected from the groups consisting of iron (Fe), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), and composites and an alloy thereof.
US08152889B2 Filter with EPTFE and method of forming
A filter media product and method of making the same wherein the filter media is pleatable and has at least one support scrim comprised of a melt bonded non-woven material or a fuse bonded non-woven material bonded to a layer of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene. The filter media may have a single support scrim with one or more layers and optionally may have a support scrim on both an upstream and downstream surface where both or neither support scrim is multilayered. The filter media may have an efficiency greater than, equal to, or less than HEPA.
US08152888B2 Air filter
A filter cartridge is provided which comprises a media pack, a preform and a molded-in-place region of seal material. The media pack generally comprises a coiled arrangement of facing sheet secured to corrugated sheet. The preform includes a projection surrounding the media pack; the projection surrounding the media pack including a portion directed radially away from the media pack. The molded-in-place region of seal material defines: a radially outwardly directed surface defining a housing radial seal; and, has a portion with the projection of the preform that is directed radially away from the media pack embedded therein.
US08152887B2 Air/oil separator
An improved air/oil separator assembly for removal of oil from a gaseous stream is disclosed. The air/oil separator includes a head flange and an end plate positioned in a spaced-parallel relationship. A first and a second elongated support member and an outer jacket are concentrically arranged and secured along opposing ends to the head flange and end plate. A first separator element is secured in a position proximate to and outboard of the first support member and a second separator element is secured in a position proximate to and outboard of the second support member. A pre-separator element is secured in a position proximate to and outboard of the second separator element but inboard of the outer jacket. The pre-separator and separator elements are operative to remove oil from the gaseous stream. The pre-separator improves oil removal performance by removing a significant amount of oil before it reaches the separator elements.
US08152881B2 Housing for a centrifugal fan, the centrifugal fan, and electronic device having the centrifugal fan
A housing for a centrifugal fan includes a surrounding wall extending upwardly from a periphery of a bottom wall with an air inlet, and including a surrounding wall body defining an opening, a protruding wall body extending outwardly from the surrounding wall body, corresponding to the opening, and having a dust-discharging hole, and a shielding plate disposed on the protruding wall body. The surrounding wall body and the bottom wall cooperatively define an accommodation space communicated with the air inlet, and an air outlet communicated with the accommodation space. The protruding wall body, the shielding plate, and the bottom wall cooperatively define a turbulence space communicated with the accommodation space. The shielding plate is movable between a closed position to close the dust-discharging hole, and an open position to open the dust-discharging hole so as to permit fluid communication between the turbulence space and the outside environment.
US08152875B2 Method and apparatus for producing methane from carbonaceous material
A method for producing methane (69) from a carbonaceous (22) material includes conveying pulverized carbonaceous material (28) entrained in an inert carrier fluid, such as carbon dioxide (36), into a reactor (34). The reactor (34) includes a vortex region (72) for receiving hydrogen gas (38) and imparting a swirling motion to the hydrogen gas (38). The pulverized carbonaceous material (28) is exposed to the swirling stream of hydrogen gas (38) in a first reaction zone (114) within the reactor (34) to form an exit gas (40) that includes methane (69). Remaining unreacted carbonaceous material (28) is further exposed to the hydrogen gas (38) in a second, low velocity, reaction zone (120). The methane rich exit gas (40) is subsequently extracted from the reactor (34) for further processing.
US08152874B2 Systems and methods for integration of gasification and reforming processes
A system and method for producing multiple syngas products. In one embodiment (FIG. 5) a syngas producing system (200) includes a gasifier (210) and a hydrocarbon steam reformer (226). The gasifier (210) is configured to react a solid or liquid carbonaceous material (212) and provide a first syngas product (222). The reformer (226) is coupled to receive sensible heat from the first syngas product (222) and drive an endothermic reaction in which a second syngas product (238) is produced from a liquid or gaseous hydrocarbon supply (150). In a method of processing fuel, a solid or liquid carbonaceous material (212) is provided to a gasifier (210) in the form of a slurry, which is converted into a first syngas product (222) in an exothermic reaction. A liquid or gaseous hydrocarbon supply (150) receives sufficient sensible heat generated during the exothermic reaction to convert the liquid or gaseous hydrocarbon supply (150) into a second syngas product (238).
US08152872B2 Modular reformer with enhanced heat recuperation
The thermal reformer system (1) is provided that compromises a planar assembly including a reformer zone (5), a combustion zone (6), and various inlet and outlet manifolds with associated fluid flow passages (11, 20). The reformer system further compromises an inlet combustion fluid flow passage (31) connecting an inlet combustion fluid manifold (30) and the combustion zone (6), and an outlet combustion fluid flow passage (41) connecting the combustion zone (6) and the outlet combustion fluid manifold (40). In the thermal reformer system the heat transfer and recuperation from outlet fluid flows is efficiently transferred to inlet fluid flows, in order to minimize heat loss and insulation requirements.
US08152861B2 Dark coloured azo dyes
The present invention relates to a) a non-oxidative coloring agent for keratin fibers, in particular human hair, comprising at least one dye according to formula (I) or (II), b) an oxidative coloring agent for keratin fibers, in particular human hair, which comprises at least one oxidizing agent (e.g. hydrogen peroxide), at least one oxidative dye precursor and at least one dye according to formula (I) or (II), and c) a lightening agent for keratin fibers, in particular human hair, which comprises at least one oxidizing agent (e.g. hydrogen peroxide) and at least one dye according to formula (I) or (II), with R4 being a cationic group.
US08152855B2 Method and apparatus for hip femoral resurfacing tooling
Tools and methods for implanting hip resurfacing femoral prostheses along a path defined by the axis of a shaped femoral head surface are described. The prostheses are stemless partial ball components having an outer surface shaped to conform to an acetabular socket and may be a two part design having a mating sleeve component with an internal bore adapted to receive the shaped femoral head. The tools and methods are capable of accurately implanting both one and two piece ball components and sleeves without requiring the prosthesis to have a central stem or the preparation of a stem cavity in the femoral head and neck.
US08152849B2 Implant with one piece swivel joint
An implant for permanent or temporary introduction into the human or animal body includes a base body for connecting spaced body parts and/or other implant components, the implant having a load axis, along which primarily tensile and/or compressive forces are transmissible, with at least one rotary axis formed at right angle to the load axis, the rotary axis facilitating at least limited bending of the base body about the rotary axis, especially of the ends of the base body arranged along the load axis, with the at least one rotary axis being defined by a swivel joint, which is formed in one-piece at the base body.
US08152843B2 Polymeric endoprosthesis and method of manufacture
Improved polymeric endoprostheses having reinforcement elements and methods of making the endoprostheses are disclosed. The devices disclosed exhibit improved overall compliance, selective regional compliance, and selective radial strength without varying the geometries of selected regions. Numerous other physical characteristics of the endoprostheses described may be selectively varied during manufacture. Some embodiments may include an erodible polymer and magnesium. Some embodiments may have one or more therapeutics incorporated into the endoprosthesis via a solvent in a supercritical state.
US08152830B2 Rotating stent delivery system for side branch access and protection and method of using same
A system for treatment of a vessel bifurcation and its method of use comprises a catheter having a catheter shaft, a portion of which is characterized as an axle about which a rotatable assembly is disposed and rotatable thereabout. The system employs a series of lumens, openings and/or ports to provide a balloon mounted on the rotatable assembly with fluid communication to the catheter shaft.
US08152827B2 Systems and methods for harvesting, storing, and implanting hair grafts
A system and method for harvesting, storing, and implanting biological unit delivery tools, particularly useful to facilitate robotic hair transplant procedures. A storage device includes a lower module having a plurality of receptacles for containing delivery tools, for example small tubular follicular unit implant needles. The receptacles may contain liquid for maintaining hydration of the biological unit. The lower module may be manipulated by an automated system which includes a pick and placed collet that handles the delivery tools one at a time in an implant procedure. An upper module registers with the lower module and provides guide bores leading to the delivery tools in the receptacles. A biological unit removal tool, such as a follicular unit harvesting needle, can be carried by the collet and used to deposit biological units through the guide bores and into each delivery tool. Each receptacle may include means for retaining the delivery tool therein to help the collet cleanly insert and release the tool.
US08152824B2 Living tissue ligation device
This invention includes a clip having arms which grip living tissue, a press tube serving as a clamping member which is fitted and mounted on the clip to close the arms of the clip, a coupling member which can be inserted into the press tube and engages with the clip, and projections serving as lock portions which hold the arms of the clip in a closed state when the clip engages with the press tube.
US08152820B2 Medical device and method for human tissue and foreign body extraction
A coaxial tube assembly, a bag, a bag-translating assembly, a de-bulking tool, and a drive assembly. The bag is delivered into a cavity in a patient's body either manually for open surgery or through the coaxial tube assembly by operation of the drive assembly for minimally invasive surgery. After a mass of tissue is placed in the bag, which is now secured to the bag-translating assembly, the drive assembly is operated to activate the bag-translation assembly to retract the bag into the annular space of the coaxial tube assembly. As the bag is being retracted, the mass in the bag is pulled into engagement with the de-bulking tool, which extends through the lumen of the coaxial tube assembly. The drive assembly activates the de-bulking tool to morcellate the mass in the bag and convey the morcellated bits of the mass through the lumen of the coaxial tube assembly.
US08152819B2 Catheter support for stent delivery
An angioplasty and stent delivery system to facilitate introduction and placement of a stent, including a catheter having an expandable distal portion constructed and arranged for expanding the outer diameter of the catheter from a contracted state to an expanded state: a stent positioned around the distal portion of the catheter having a contracted condition and being expandable to an expanded condition, and being sized in the contracted condition to closely surround the catheter in the contracted state, the expandable distal portion of the catheter including a balloon within which or over which there is included on a catheter shaft at least one axially movable or enlargeable body of a diameter larger than the catheter shaft to which the stent and balloon are fitted, as by crimping, for holding the stent in place until it is released therefrom by expansion of the balloon.
US08152807B2 Intramedullary device assembly and associated method
An intramedullary device assembly is provided for repairing defects of a bone. The intramedullary device assembly includes a device that is configured to be inserted into the medullary canal of the bone. The assembly also includes a guide adapter that attaches to the end of the device and includes a movable and adjustable bone engagement member. Also a compression member may be attached to the guide adapter that pushes the bone engagement member into engagement with the bone. The bone engagement member defines at least two bone engagement points and wherein at least one bone engagement point is movable relative to at least one other bone engagement point in the direction of the bone. The compression member forces the bone engagement member in the direction of the bone along the bone engagement member guide and the at least one bone engagement point is permitted to move relative to the other at least one bone engagement point so that both bone engagement points can engage the end of the bone as compression is applied to the bone. The guide adapter and compression member may then be detached from the intramedullary device. A breakaway stud may also be included to connect the guide adapter to the intramedullary device such that the application of force on the assembly may break the breakaway stud and detach the guide adapter and compression member from the installed intramedullary device.
US08152800B2 Electrosurgical systems and printed circuit boards for use therewith
An electrosurgical system for treating tissue is disclosed. The system includes an electrosurgical generator, a printed circuit board, a generator ground and a patient ground. The printed circuit board is disposed in mechanical cooperation with the electrosurgical generator and includes a plurality of conductive layers. The generator ground includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is electro-mechanically connected to a conductive layer of the printed circuit board and the second portion is electro-mechanically connected to another conductive layer of the printed circuit board. The patient ground includes a portion that is at least partially interposed between the first portion of the generator ground and the second portion of the generator ground.
US08152795B2 Method and device for cardiac tissue ablation
Methods and apparatus are disclosed for forming annular lesions in tissue. The methods include introduction of an optical apparatus proximate to a tissue site, via, for example, a catheter. The optical apparatus includes a pattern-forming optical wave guide in communication with a light transmitting optical fiber. Energy is transmitted through the optical fiber, such that radiation is propagated through the optical fiber and the wave guide projects an annular light pattern, e.g., a circle or a halo.
US08152791B2 Catheter locking mechanism
A locking mechanism for maintaining a position of a catheter on a beaded connector tube of an implantable device. A first lock member has a plurality of slots formed along its outer surface. A second lock member is dimensioned such that at least a slotted portion of the first member is receivable in an axial passageway of the second member. The second member has a plurality of tabs extending into the axial passageway wherein a tab is receivable in a respective slot to form a locking connection between the lock members. The lock members are aligned upon formation of the locking connection wherein the connector tube and catheter are receivable along the respective axial passageways, and the beaded connector tube portion is disposed on an opposite side of the tabs from the implantable device.
US08152788B2 Absorbent incontinence article with improved closure system
The invention relates to an absorbent incontinence diaper (2) with a rear area (8), a front area (6) and a crotch area (12) lying between these, and with first and second side edges (5), and with a main part (4) having an inner face directed towards the body and an outer face directed away from the body during use of the diaper, the main part (4) comprising an absorption body (14) and a backsheet (10) on the side of the absorption body (14) directed away from the body, the absorption body (14) having a smaller width than the backsheet (10), and with side parts (16, 17) joined to the first and second side edges (5), the side parts (16, 17) having an inner face and an outer face, and the side parts (17) in the rear area having closure means (32) with mechanical closure aids (31). To correctly secure the diaper on the body of a user, the mechanical closure means (31) can be secured detachably at least in regions both on the outer face of the main part (4) and also on the outer face of the side parts (16) in the front area (6). The retaining forces between the mechanical closure means (31) and the outer face of the main part are lower than the retaining forces between the mechanical closure means (31) and the outer face of the side parts (16) in the front area (6).
US08152781B2 Safeguard cap, injection needle with safeguard cap, and medical device with safeguard cap
A safeguard cap 1 is attached to an injection needle 10 that includes a hollow needle 11 and a holding member 12 for attaching the hollow needle 11 to a medical device. The safeguard cap 1 includes a housing part 2 for housing the hollow needle 11, a base 3 to be attached to the holding member 12, and a joint (bridges 4) for joining the housing part 2 and the base 3 to each other. The housing part 2 is formed in a tubular shape, with one end thereof being open and the other being closed. The joint is formed so as to be broken when external force for rotating the housing part 2 about its longitudinal axis that serves as a central axis is applied to the housing part 2, with the base 3 having been attached to the holding member 12.
US08152778B2 Device for interfacing with standard luer lock syringes
An interface device is described which includes a body defining one or more cylindrical bores which are dimensioned to receive a standard luer lock syringe. Each bore includes a plunger movably positioned therein from a retracted position to an advanced position. The plunger and the distal end of the bore defines a first fluid reservoir and the standard syringe assembly defines a second fluid reservoir. The interface device and the syringe assembly are operable to sequentially deliver multiple fluids from the interface device to a catheter assembly.
US08152777B2 Spray for fluent materials
Certain embodiments relate to a sprayer or other medical apparatus for applying a biocompatible coating in situ. Such an apparatus may have a first conduit connected to a first exit opening and a second conduit connected to a second exit opening to deliver a first composition through the first conduit and a second composition through the second conduit to mix the first composition and the second composition outside both the first conduit and the second conduit. The first composition may be, e.g., a precursor to a material formed after the mixing of the first composition and the second composition. The first exit opening and the second exit opening may be approximately adjacent to each other and define an angle that is less than about 140 degrees.
US08152773B2 Instrument seal
A surgical access port comprises a valve or instrument seal that separates the instrument contact function from the instrument conforming function. Embodiments of the instrument seal comprise in instrument contact element that extends through an opening in a compression element, thereby defining an instrument orifice that seals with an instrument extending therethrough. Embodiments of the instrument contact element comprise a non-distensible membrane or film, for example, as a tube or cylinder. Some embodiments of the instrument contact element have an hourglass configuration with a first end proximal of the opening of the compression element and a second end distal of the opening of the compression element. Other embodiments of the instrument contact element “wrap around” the opening in the compression element, with the first end and the second end secured to the same side of the opening, for example, proximal of the opening. Embodiments of the compression element comprise an elastomeric seal, for example, a septum seal and/or a gel seal.
US08152765B2 Infusion pump system with contamination-resistant features
Some embodiments of an infusion pump system may include a construction that is resistant to external contaminants, such as precipitation, water splashes, sweat and the like. In particular embodiments, the infusion pump system can include a pump device that is removably attached to a controller device to provide an electrical connection therebetween. In such circumstances, the infusion pump system can be assembled as a sealed construction that protects the electrical connection between the pump device and the removable controller device.
US08152763B2 Disposable carpule for hypodermic syringe
A standard dental syringe is made up of an outer cylinder with a plunger at one end, and a carpule which contains liquid medication to be injected into a patient is replaceably positioned within the barrel and includes a needle slidably mounted at one end of the carpule in communication with the fluid medication which is contained in a fluid chamber sealed off at each end by a plug so that when the plunger is advanced into engagement with a first plug at one end of the carpule the liquid medication is delivered through the needle and upon completion of the plunger stroke, a barbed extension of the slidable first plug member will move into engagement with the needle-retaining second plug member so that upon retraction of the plunger the needle-retaining plug member will be retracted along with the slidable first plug member. The needle is guided through a funnel-shaped sleeve assembly at the end of the barrel so that following the injection procedure the needle can be retracted and the portion of the guide can be removed so that the entire exposed end of the needle can be cut off following which both of the plug members and remainder of the needle can be once again retracted into the carpule assembly and removed from the barrel and replaced by a new carpule assembly.
US08152761B2 Safety needle assembly
A safety needle assembly has a collar or ring that is rotatably mounted to a needle hub, which may be connected to a medical device such as a syringe. The needle assembly may be connected to the syringe by the user grasping the needle hub in first and second embodiments, or turning of the needle sheath in other embodiments. In all of the embodiments, the collar of the needle assembly may be rotated by turning the needle sheath, which is designed to interact with the collar. In some of the embodiments, the needle hub likewise interacts with the collar in such a way that by rotating the needle sheath, the needle hub is likewise rotated for connection to a syringe. When an exposed needle is to be covered, after the needle sheath has been removed, a housing connected to the collar is pivotally moved to cover the needle. Mechanisms are provided at both the collar and the housing so that once the contaminated needle is covered, the needle assembly may be removed from the syringe for disposal by rotating the needle housing. In all of the embodiments disclosed, the needle sheath does not come into contact with the needle hub and the collar is rotatable about the needle hub.
US08152755B1 System and method for delivering a therapeutic agent with finesse
A catheter for delivering a therapeutic agent to a target site of a human or animal subject can include a substantially flexible and biocompatible catheter body having a proximal end and a distal end. An eductor can be located at the distal end of the catheter body, and a first lumen within the catheter body for housing the therapeutic agent can be in fluid communication with the eductor. A second lumen, also in fluid communication with the first lumen, can extend from the proximal end of the catheter body towards the eductor and can have an output port at the distal end of the catheter body. The eductor can be operable to induce the therapeutic agent to flow from the first lumen out of the output port in response to fluid flowing through the second lumen.
US08152749B2 Stabilization wedge for ulcer prevention and therapeutic/treatment boot
A device for stabilizing a limb, typically when the limb is in a prevention and therapeutic/treatment boot. A wedge-shaped stabilization block includes an outwardly-extending tether. In one form of the invention, a fastener in the form of spaced fastener elements is located on the tether for securing the stabilization block in place. In a second form of the invention, the stabilization block is permanently affixed to the boot and may include fastener elements for engaging complementary fastener elements on the boot.
US08152748B2 Offloading and reduced-pressure treatment systems and methods
An offloading and reduced-pressure treatment system includes an offloading and reduced-pressure treatment device, which has a plantar member formed from an offloading manifold material. The offloading and reduced-pressure treatment system further includes a reduced-pressure interface fluidly coupled to the pressure-transmitting layer of the plantar member, a reduced-pressure source, and a reduced-pressure delivery conduit fluidly coupled to the reduced-pressure source and to the offloading and reduced-pressure treatment device. The offloading manifold material includes a first barrier layer, a support layer, a pressure-transmitting layer and a second barrier layer. The offloading and reduced-pressure treatment device may also have a dorsal member and a bridge member. Methods are also presented.
US08152744B2 Shoe or insole fitting navigation system
The present invention presents a shoe or insole fitting navigation system including a set of foot sole pressure measuring sensors for measuring foot sole pressure distributions; a set of TV cameras for taking foot images; a processor; and a monitor screen. The present system acquires right and left foot sole pressure data, acquires right and left foot images, computes a foot sole gravity center position of each foot, computes an outer dimension of each foot, and determines bias in gravity center balance of each foot accurately based on the foot sole gravity center position of each foot and the outer dimension of each foot. In addition, the present system determines an abnormal foot symptom of each foot, and selects a shoe or insole of each foot based on the determined bias in gravity center balance and the determined foot symptom.
US08152741B2 Lancet wheel
The invention is related to a lancet wheel (1) having a plurality of lancets (2) in a ring-shaped arrangement, the lancets (2) comprising a lancet body (4) that ends in a lancet tip (3). A lancet wheel (1) according to the invention has a carrier (5) that carries the lancets (2), whereby the lancets (2) are connected to the carrier (5) via bars (7, 7a, 7b, 7c) that allow for mobility of the lancets (2) relative to the carrier (5).
US08152734B2 System and method for diagnosis of bovine diseases using auscultation analysis
A system and method are provided for diagnosis of bovine respiratory diseases using auscultation techniques. Acoustic characteristics of a recorded spectrogram are compared with existing data enabling a diagnosis to be made for a diseased animal. Lung sounds are obtained by use of an electronic stethoscope, and the sounds are stored as digital data. Signal conditioning is used to place the data in a desired format and to remove undesirable noise associated with the recorded sounds. An algorithm is applied to data, and lung scores are calculated. The lung scores are then categorized into various levels of perceived pathology based upon baseline data that categorizes the lung scores. From the lung scores, a caregiver can associate a diagnosis, prognosis, and a recommended treatment. Analysis software generates the lung scores from the recorded sounds, and may also provide a visual display of presumptive diagnoses as well as recommended treatments.
US08152733B2 Method for improving recognition rate of respiratory wave
The present invention discloses a method for improving recognition rate of respiratory wave, which is used for a data processing module of a respiratory rate measuring or monitoring device, specifically, said method comprises the steps of: receiving, via a data processing module, respiratory wave data which come from a measuring circuit and have been analog-to-digital converted; according to the feature that each crest or trough signal in the respiratory wave data has rising stairs and falling stairs, sequentially searching for and finding out, based on a predetermined number of stairs, the data corresponding to each crest and trough via said data processing module; and determining each crest and trough in a corresponding respiratory wave. According to the present invention, interferences may be effectively eliminated and recognition rate of respiratory waveform may be effectively improved, so that the computation of respiratory rate will be more accurate and stable, and the measuring or monitoring device will have a higher clinical practicability.
US08152730B2 Method for continuous baroreflex sensitivity measurement
A medical device and method for determining baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) based on one or more respiration cycles. The BRS determination may be performed continuously based on measurements of heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration cycles.
US08152727B2 Method for assessment of color processing mechanism in the human brain for diagnosis and treatment
The present invention is a method for assessment of color processing mechanism in the human brain using cerebral blood flow velocity monitoring, specifically transcranial Doppler ultrasound. The method including steps of transluminating color discs from a light source of a specific color temperature, which act on the visual pathways and color centers to alter mean blood flow velocity in the cerebral arteries. The mean flow velocity is analyzed and using Fourier computation to calculate spectral density estimates. Opponent mechanism in the cortical and subcortical regions determined as opposing tendency for short wavelength versus medium wavelength or for medium wavelength versus long wavelength colors. The method is applied for diagnosis, and treatment of variety of conditions.
US08152726B2 Non-invasive tracking of bones for surgery
There is described a device for use with a position sensing system to register position and orientation in a reference-coordinate system, the device comprising a set of at least three base units removably and non-invasively attachable to a skin surface covering a bone, each of the base units having a reference marker attached thereto, the reference markers being one of passive and active devices recognized by the position sensing system and positioned and oriented in the reference coordinate system with respect to a fixed reference, the base units adapted to measure a distance between the skin surface and the bone in conjunction with an ultrasound component.
US08152725B2 Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and image display method thereof
A generation unit generates data of a plurality of images whose scan time is different on the basis of an output of the probe. A calculation unit calculates a plurality of index values related to pressure of the probe against the tested body on the basis of a physical quantity changing with the strength of the pressure. A specifying unit specifies a first image, which corresponds to a first index value of the plurality of calculated index values, and a second image, which corresponds to a second index value, among the plurality of generated images. A display unit displays the specified first and second images side by side.
US08152724B2 Ultrasound guided probe device and method of using same
The present invention is directed to devices and methods for use in ultrasound guiding of percutaneous probes during medical procedures. The ultrasound devices of the present invention include an ultrasound transducer. The devices can also include means and methods for imaging a virtual probe overlaying the sonogram formed by the ultrasound device such that a real time image of the probe approach to the target may be observed during and after probe placement.
US08152718B2 Medical device light source
Embodiments of the invention are directed medical devices for illuminating and viewing a patient's internal body portion. The device may include an elongated flexible tube including a distal end and a proximal end. The tube defines a channel extending from the proximal end to an aperture at the distal end. An illumination device is housed within the channel and configured to emit a distally directed path of light. A light source is provided at the distal end of the flexible tube and configured to emit a laterally directed path of light. In one embodiment the light source is a organic light emitting diode.
US08152717B2 Device for white balancing and appying an anti-fog agent to medical videoscopes prior to medical procedures
A device is configured for white balancing a medical videoscopic camera system prior to videoscopic medical procedures, as well as optionally simultaneously or non-simultaneously applying a fog-prohibiting agent to the distal lens of a medical videoscope such as an endoscope or laparoscope. The device combines a white balancing mechanism, protective mechanism, and defogging mechanism in one simple easy to use device.
US08152713B2 Capsule endoscope with illumination board section and method of assembling
A capsule endoscope including: an illumination board section on which an illumination portion is arranged; a lens support member that supports a lens; a hole that pierces through the illumination board section, the lens support member being fitted in the hole; and a supporting portion that positions and supports the illumination board section with respect to the lens support member when the lens support member is inserted into the hole, the supporting portion being provided in the lens support member. A method for assembling a capsule endoscope that includes an imaging board section on which an image sensor is arranged is also provided.
US08152703B1 Exercise device providing variable lift assistance during pull-up and push-up exercises
An exemplary exercise device descending from an elevated support (e.g., a bar or door frame) allows a user to insert a body part in a loop (e.g., a foot for pull-ups or a waist for push-ups) descending from an elastic resistance unit, which uses a variable number of stretchable elastic members between top and bottom connectors to reduce the effective weight the user has to pull/push up. Each of the resistance unit top and bottom connectors has several elastic member sockets, each socket having a socket passage extending through the connector. Each elastic member has an elongated portion between two member plugs sized to resist passing through the elastic member socket passages. Elastic members can be removably and replaceably installed by inserting a portion of each member plug within an elastic member socket, one member plug in each of the resistance unit top and bottom connectors.
US08152694B2 Activity monitoring device and method
A physical activity monitoring method and system in one embodiment includes a communications network, a wearable sensor device configured to generate physiologic data associated with a sensed physiologic condition of a wearer, and to generate audio context data associated with a sensed audio context of the wearer, and to form a communication link with the communications network, a memory for storing the physiologic data and the audio context data, a computer and a computer program executed by the computer, wherein the computer program comprises computer instructions for rendering activity data associated with the physiologic data and the audio context data, and a user interface operably connected to the computer for rendering the activity data.
US08152686B2 Drive transmission device and ink jet recording apparatus
In the revolving restricted state, the planetary gear meshes with the drive input gear, and the clutch mechanism is unable to transmit the rotational drive force; in the freely revolvable state, the planetary gear is separated apart from the drive input gear, and the clutch mechanism is able to transmit the rotational drive force, the drive transmission switching mechanism is provided with first and second abutting portions which are configured to come into contact with the planetary arm rotated in the freely revolvable state so as to initialize the revolving position of the planetary gear, and the drive transmission switching mechanism is capable of selecting which one of the first and second abutting portions will come into contact with the planetary arm in accordance with the position of the drive input gear transmitting the rotational drive force among the plurality of drive input gears.
US08152672B2 Differential assembly including differential lock and blocking member
A differential assembly includes an axle, a differential, a differential lock, a blocking member, and a pump. The differential is coupled with the axle and configured to facilitate operation of the axle at an axle speed. The differential lock is associated with the differential and movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The blocking member is associated with the differential lock and is movable between a blocking position and a non-blocking position. When the blocking member is in the blocking position, the differential lock is inhibited from moving to the locked position. The pump includes an outlet in fluid communication with the blocking member. The pump is operably coupled with the axle and is configured to facilitate movement of the blocking member into the blocking position when the axle speed is above a threshold speed. Vehicles including a differential assembly are also provided.
US08152669B2 Clutch arrangements for an electrically-variable transmission
Various embodiments of electrically-variable transmissions are provided that have a first and a second motor-generator, a first and a second planetary gear set, and two torque-transmitting mechanisms, including a rotating-type clutch and a stationary-type clutch. An input member is connected for common rotation with a ring gear of the first planetary gear set. Carriers of both of the planetary gear sets are connected for common rotation with one another, and with an output member. The first motor/generator is connected for common rotation with the sun gear of the first planetary gear set. The second motor/generator is connected for common rotation with the sun gear of the second planetary gear set. The rotating-type torque-transmitting mechanism is a dog clutch with a synchronizer. The stationary-type torque-transmitting mechanism may be either a dog clutch with a synchronizer or a selectable one-way braking clutch (SOWBC).
US08152662B2 Radial baseball bat
A laminated wood bat having may comprise wedges of wood adhered together in such a manner that the entire surface or sections of the surface of the bat barrel, throat, and handle have the tight grain of the normal hitting surface. Adjacent wedges of wood may be cut from the same strip of wood. The bat may be glued together with a low viscosity polyurethane adhesive.
US08152659B1 Football holder
A football holder for holding extra footballs on the side or hips of the quarterback until the quarterback is ready to throw the extra footballs. A pair of holders attach to the quarterback with a waist strap and two leg straps. Each holder has two spring-loaded cupped ends that are biased toward each other for holding the football there between. A football is inserted in the holder by spreading apart the two cupped ends and inserting the ends of the football between the two cupped ends of the holder. The bottom cupped end has a notch cut out of it to facilitate removal of the football from the holder by applying a twisting motion to the football.
US08152649B2 Golf putter and grid for training a golf putting method
A golf system for training a golf player includes a golf putter designed to train the user in practicing an unconventional motion and a grid for guiding the motion of the golf putter. The golf putter includes a club head and a plurality of marking instruments such as styluses for marking the trajectory of the putter. The grid includes an enclosure, a recording device to record the trajectory of the golf putter, a plurality of guiding rails and an optional leveling device as well as an optional aiming device, thereby allowing the user to analyze his/her putting trajectory.
US08152643B2 Solitaire game played over the internet with features to extend play
The present invention provides a method for playing a computer-based solitaire game including the steps of retrieving an input from an internet server to a computer, playing and scoring the game according to the input. The internet server and the computer are intermittently connected during the game and the input comprises a scoring method and a game pattern which are controlled and predetermined by the internet. The present invention also provides a computer-based solitaire game comprising a network connection to an internet server for retrieving an input and for comparing scores, and a control system for a player having means for operating on the input and means for displaying the input and the comparison results to the player. The input comprises a scoring method and a game pattern which are controlled and predetermined by the internet server, and the game pattern comprises game features and graphic elements. The present invention further provides a method for operating a tournament game over the internet having the steps of establishing communication between a central server and a player's computer, downloading an input onto the player's computer, re-accessing periodically to the player's computer from the central server, transferring information relating to player's identity, the game, and result to the central server, comparing scoring results from multiple players in the central server according to the tournament structure, displaying the comparison results on the player's computer, and continuing playing the game according to results and the tournament structure.
US08152639B2 Method and system for enhanced audio communications in an interactive environment
Enhanced audio communications is provided in an interactive environment, such as a gaming environment, having multiple participants. An input audio signal, such as a speech signal, that is originated by one of the multiple participants is received. In addition, one or more instructions that correspond to the input audio signal are received. Based on the one or more instructions, an output audio signal is generated from the input audio signal. The output audio signal is designated for transmission to one or more of the participants.
US08152628B2 Methods and devices for authentication and licensing in a gaming network
Methods and devices are provided for managing licenses in gaming networks. Some aspects of the invention are provided as a license manager module that operates as part of a server-based system for provisioning and configuring gaming machines. Security and authentication techniques are provided to prevent unauthorized gaming software usage. Such gaming software may be, for example, downloaded to gaming machines in the network under the control of a gaming establishment's game management server that is in communication with a license manager device. In preferred implementations, a gaming machine is prevented from executing software for a game of chance unless the license for that game is valid and has not expired.
US08152626B2 Gaming system having a plurality of gaming machines linked by network and control method thereof
A gaming system of the present invention comprises a plurality of gaming machines and a control device including a processor, wherein the processor is programmed to execute processing of (A) counting a part of a number of betted game media as a cumulative value based on number-of-game-media information received from the gaming machine, and (E) paying out the game media to the gaming machine as a transmission source of the number-of-game-media information being a basis of counting the number of game media counted in the processing (A) when a number of the gaming machines joining a game is less than a specific number.
US08152625B2 Bonus game awarding and displaying selected values
Various bonus games for being played on a gaming machine are described. The base game may consist of the random selection and display of a 5×3 matrix of symbols. In one bonus game (FIGS. 5-7), upon a certain outcome of the base game including special symbols, all symbols in the matrix except for the special symbols are replaced with values, such as different credit amounts. The player selects a particular special symbol using a touch screen, and the identified special symbol randomly moves to select one of the displayed values in the matrix. In another game (FIGS. 11-13), the player applies hidden multipliers to a randomly selected award value in the matrix. In another game (FIGS. 14-19), pointers moving across the matrix of values accumulate values for awarding to the player. The multi-stage interactive bonus games add excitement and more player involvement.
US08152615B2 Gaming system with blackjack primary game and poker secondary game
A gaming device having a primary game and a secondary game is provided. The gaming device includes a primary game, such as blackjack or 21 operable on a wager by a player, and an optional secondary game that is operable on a secondary game wager by a player. After placing a secondary game wager and satisfying certain criteria in the primary game, one or more players are provided with a secondary game card to be used in the secondary game. The secondary game is resolved after a player has accumulated a plurality of secondary game cards over the course of several sequentially played rounds of the primary game.
US08152612B1 Online gaming system for simulating a football game
An online gaming system for simulating a football game comprising a server with a processor, a network in communication with the server, at least one client device in communication with the network, wherein the at least one client device has an input device, a display device, and a monetary acceptance feature, and a database in communication with the processor. The database comprises an electronic deck of playing cards comprising offensive play cards and defensive play cards and an electronic deck of special teams cards. Computer instructions in the database instruct the processor to permit input of bets, electronically deal cards from the electronic decks, designate offense and defense players, permit selection of cards by players, determine game outcomes based on the selected cards, and award winnings based on bets and game outcomes.
US08152611B2 Game program
A CPU core determines whether a stick is in contact with a touch panel based on an output signal from the touch panel; if not in contact, a gazing point of a virtual camera is moved to a collective center of masses for objects; on the other hand, if the stick is in contact with the touch panel, setting values for the camera are fixed, an operation target object is caused to appear at a position, in a game space, corresponding to touch coordinates, and, then, the operation target object is moved in accordance with a dragging operation from a player; the setting values for the camera are fixed until the stick detaches from the touch panel; and, accordingly, when the player moves an arbitrary object in the three dimensional game space by operating the touch panel, the player can accurately move the object to an intended point.
US08152604B2 Detecting structure for a stuffing apparatus
A detecting structure for a stuffing apparatus includes: a stuffing nozzle having a material discharge port and a photoelectric sensor for detecting a terminating end of a casing loaded on an outer periphery of the stuffing nozzle, wherein the photoelectric sensor is accommodated in a protective case having a transparent portion, and a first air supplying arrangement for supplying air into the protective case is provided on the protective case. Further, the first air supplying arrangement may have an air nozzle which is provided in the protective case and jets air toward an inner surface of the transparent portion. Still further, second air supplying arrangement may be provided for supplying air toward an outer surface of the transparent portion. Furthermore, third air supplying arrangement may be provided for supplying air toward the casing.
US08152602B2 Grinder and core drill with dust collection
A core drill or a grinder power tool design is disclosed herein also incorporated to a dust collection apparatus. The tool has a motor portion and a shaft portion, the shaft portion being characterized by a hollow shaft together with a casing forming a conduit for the dust created during coring or grinding applications. A harness is provided to the collection apparatus and the overall design is portable and functional right-handed or left-handed. A ring gear configuration is provided to transfer shaft power at a right angle. Further, several bearings are introduced to align shafts and absorb thrust created while applying pressure to a work piece. Power is additionally supplied to the power tool via a special modification to the collection apparatus.
US08152600B2 Sharpener for rotary cutters
Apparatus, systems and methods in accordance with the present invention are related to sharpening blades for rotary cutters. In one illustrative embodiment of a system in accordance with the present invention, an elongated sharpening stone is held at a desired angle between underlying support structures on a base and a securing cap. A planar edge of the stone is exposed in an adjustable channel between the stone and a slidably adjustable sidewall. The angle of the sharpening stone corresponds to correct angle for a sharpened edge on a rotary blade disposed on a hand held rotary cutter, which is inserted into the channel. By advancing the cutter through the channel an edge of the rotary blade may be honed and/or sharpened.
US08152592B1 Breast crease comforter
A breast crease comforter decreases pain and promotes healing during and after radiation therapy to the breast. The skin crease between the breast and the torso is typically exposed to daily friction, sheer, and moisture. When the breast is also compromised by radiation therapy, these various insults may combine to cause skin breakdown and excoriation, including resultant pain. The breast crease comforter intervenes between the underside of the breast and the torso to protect and pad this sensitive crease area when compromised by radiation therapy. The breast crease comforter may also be used to treat other conditions besides vulnerable skin resulting from radiation therapy to the breast or torso. The breast crease comforter may also be combined with the bottom of a conventional bra.
US08152590B2 Acoustic sensor for beehive monitoring
A method of and system for using sounds produced by bees flying near a beehive entrance enable a beekeeper to assess the operational productivity of the beehive. In a preferred embodiment, the method entails positioning an acoustic pickup device, such as a microphone, at a location to pick up and provide an audio signal representing sounds produced by bees flying around the beehive entrance. The flying bees produce the sounds either while hovering in the vicinity of the beehive or while launching from locations around the beehive entrance to forage for pollen and nectar. The audio signal is analyzed to distinguish the sound of launching flying bees from the sound of ambient background noise.
US08152588B2 Balloon holder for helium and air-filled balloons
A balloon holder for helium and air-filled balloons comprises: a base with adequate mass to hold down at least one helium balloon; a housing surrounding the base; a loop member comprised of a sunken portion submerged inside the base and a loop above the base wherein the loop fastens to a line attached to a helium balloon; and a stem comprised of a lower end submerged inside the base and a top end above the base wherein the top end is adapted to receive a balloon cup attached to an air-filled balloon. The loop member may be comprised of a metal wire, and the loop may secure one or multiple helium balloons. The balloon holder may also include a platform on top of the base that includes a central aperture through which the stem passes through and at least one additional aperture through which the loop member passes through.
US08152585B2 Method for manufacturing plasma display panel
The present invention provides a method for manufacturing a plasma display panel having a front plate provided with a front substrate, a display electrode formed on the front substrate, a dielectric layer covering the display electrode, and a protective layer covering the dielectric layer. In the method above, after the protective layer has been formed, the front plate is processed in a moisture-free atmosphere for only a period where the front plate has a temperature of 400° C. or lower.
US08152584B2 Cold cathode fluorescent lamp and manufacturing method thereof
A method for manufacturing a cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL) is disclosed. The CCFL includes a light transmitting shell and an electrode disposed at one end of the light transmitting shell. The method includes the steps of exhausting a gas existing inside the light transmitting shell via a vent of the light transmitting shell, charging at least one inert gas into the light transmitting shell, and removing an amalgam, which is initially disposed in a gas adjusting instrument, into a temporal region of the light transmitting shell after the step of exhausting.
US08152582B2 Method of manufacturing image displaying apparatus
In a method of manufacturing an image displaying apparatus which has plural spacers for defining a distance between substrates, the present invention enables to effectively perform a process of assembling the spacers in a less number of steps and improves accuracy of a spacer assembling position. In this method, in case of clamping plural spacers respectively by individual hands, positioning the plural spacers on the substrate in a lump, applying an adhesive to the positioned spacers, heat hardening the adhesive, and fixing the spacers to which the adhesive was applied to the substrate, pitches of the hands are adjusted according to heat expansion of the substrate in the pitch direction of the spacers occurred due to the heating of the adhesive.
US08152579B2 Direct-propulsion equipment with an internal combustion engine for a boat, in which equipment the engine and the propeller constitute a unit assembly capable of pivoting vertically and horizontally
The subject of the present invention is direct-propulsion equipment with an internal combustion engine for a boat, in which the engine and the propeller constitute a unit assembly capable of pivoting vertically and horizontally. It consists of a cradle (3) supporting the engine (2), that can pivot near the transom (16) of the boat (1) about a horizontal pivot axis (A2), the engine being coupled to a drive shaft (4) bearing the propeller (5) at its end, this entity being rendered non-deformable by virtue of two semi-circular lateral arms (6) centered on the pivot axis (A2) and each connected by a rear arm (7) to a chair (8) supporting the drive shaft and by a lateral arm (9) to the cradle (3) in order to cross-brace the assembly which is connected to an inverted bracket (15) attached to the inside of the transom (16) and allowing said assembly to rotate about a substantially vertical axis (A1). The invention relates to the industrial and commercial field of boat propulsion unit manufacture and distribution.
US08152578B2 Drive train coupling
A joint 10 is shown for transmission of torque between an input shaft 12 and an output shaft 14. In the form shown, the joint 10 comprises an outermost helical coil spring 16 and an innermost helical coil spring 18, both of which are connected at their respective opposite ends to the input shaft 12 and to the output shaft 14. The innermost helical spring 18 is arranged to be entirely located within, and co-axially aligned with, the outermost helical spring 16 along the same centerline. The springs 16, 18 are arranged to be counter wound relative to one another to provide delivery of torque in a stabilised manner reflected in a significant reduction in the vibration observed within the joint 10 during use. The joint 10 is also arranged for transmission of thrust (or axial force) between the input shaft 12 and the output shaft 14. The joint 10 comprises a plurality of substantially incompressible members in the form of ball bearings 22 that are located within the innermost helical spring 18 and which are contactable with one another to form a thrust transmitting assembly between the input shaft 12 and the output shaft 14.
US08152576B2 Female terminal fitting
A tab (51) of a male terminal (50) is inserted into a main portion (11) of a female terminal (10). The tab (51) contacts a contact portion (16) of a resilient contact piece (15) to connect the female and male terminals (10, 50) electrically. A guiding portion (18) is formed on an inner surface of the main portion (11) for guiding the tab (51) inserted into the main portion (11) to a position where the tab (51) contacts the contact portion (16). The guiding portion (18) extends from a position before a contact position of the tab (51) with the contact portion (16) to the contact position while being inclined with respect to an inserting direction of the tab (51).
US08152573B2 Electrical connector with a lug rotationally coupled to a base having an aperture for mounting to a base board
An electrical connector with a base and a lug rotationally coupled to the base with a bolt having an integral compression washer. The lug and the base have complementary gear faces. A set screw in the lug has a threaded shaft and a head with a projecting hexagonal configuration. The lug can be rotated so as to receive a relatively large gauge wire.
US08152571B2 ECG electrode connector
Disclosed is an ECG electrode lead wire connector which provides improved electrical and mechanical coupling of the ECG electrode press stud to the lead wire, provides enhanced ergonomics to the clinician, and may alleviate patient discomfort associated with the attachment and removal of ECG leads. The connector may be engaged and disengaged with little or no force imparted to the patient or the ECG pad, which significantly minimizes the risk of inadvertent dislodgement of the pad. In one embodiment the disclosed connector provides a thumb cam lever which affirmatively engages the press stud to the connector, and provides tactile feedback to the clinician that the connector is properly engaged. In other embodiments, the connector provides a pushbutton to enable the clinician to easily engage and disengage the connector from the ECG stud. The disclosed connectors may also decrease clinician fatigue, and may provide more reliable ECG results.
US08152563B1 Electrical connector having a spin ring, a pre-mold and an over-mold
An electrical connector assembly is provided and includes an electrical conductor, an electrical connector having an electrical connector front and rear, wherein the electrical connector rear includes an electrical connector termination connected to the conductor, a pre-mold material having an over-mold groove and being securely associated with the electrical connector assembly to cover the electrical connector rear, the electrical connector termination, and a portion of the electrical conductor and the cable, an over-mold material securely associated with the electrical connector assembly to cover a portion of the pre-mold material and the cable, wherein a portion of the over-mold material is located in the over-mold groove and a spin ring having a spin ring front and rear, wherein the spin ring is movably associated with the electrical connector assembly such that the spin ring rear is located proximate the over-mold material and such that the spin ring covers the electrical.
US08152561B2 Cantilevered mounted bracket with a receptacle with multiple degrees of motion
A holder is capable of providing flexible support for the connector of a flexible printed circuit board, and has particular applicability for battery recharging cradles for a mobile computing device or hand-held scanner. The holder comprises a receptacle having a rear wall and two side walls, along with protrusions to slidably retain the connector therein. The rear wall connects, using a radiused bend, to a connecting wall, which may form an acute angle relative to the rear wall, and which may neck down to improve rotational capability. The connecting wall transitions, using a radiused bend, to a transverse wall, and from its ends are two cantilever straps extending towards the receptacle, and thereby forming an acute angle relative to the connecting wall. An upward protruding boss on the end of each strap aids translational and rotational flexibility, where the holder is mounted to a surface using orifices in the bosses.
US08152550B2 Vehicle charging connector
A vehicle charging connector is configured to be coupled to a vehicle-side connector to charge a vehicle battery via the vehicle-side connector. The vehicle charging connector includes a housing, a coupling portion provided on a housing, and a lever. The lever has a lever bar accommodated in the housing, a lock portion provided on one end of the lever bar and configured to engage with a lock receiving portion of the vehicle-side connector to maintain the coupling portion and the vehicle-side connector in a coupled condition, and an unlock operation portion provided on the other end of the lever bar and operable to release an engagement between the lock portion and the lock receiving portion. An upper surface of the lever bar includes a water guide adjacent to the lock portion. The water guide includes a slope surface having a downward inclination.
US08152547B2 Two-material separable insulated connector band
Stiff and soft materials each provide certain advantages when used in the manufacture of separable insulated connectors, such as elbow and T-body connectors. Utilizing a shell or an insert that includes one section made from a stiff material and one section made from a soft material can provide a separable insulated connector that capitalizes on the advantages associated with both types of materials. The stiff materials and soft materials can be placed strategically on the shell or insert of the separable insulated connector to maximize the advantages of each material. For example, the stiff material can be used to form a section of the separable insulated connector where strength and durability is most desirable, and conversely, the soft material can be used to form a section of the connector where flexibility is desirable. A relatively stiff band can be provided around a relatively soft portion of a connector.
US08152546B2 Modular multiple-circuit electrical system
A multiple circuit duplex module comprising a chassis having an electrical chassis receptacle providing a plurality of connection points for the selection of power from two or more different circuits; a duplex element having at least one electrical duplex receptacle thereon to deliver power from one of the two or more different circuits to an external device in electrical contact with the at least one duplex receptacle; first conductor means for electrically connecting the at least one duplex receptacle to selected connection points in the chassis receptacle; wherein the duplex element is connectable to the chassis in different orientations, the orientation of the duplex element determining which one of the two or more different circuits is electrically connected to the at least one duplex receptacle.
US08152544B1 Energy-saving socket structure
An energy-saving socket includes a housing, at least one control switch, and at least one LED (Light-Emitting Diode) indicator. The housing receives therein an electrical circuit. The electrical circuit includes at least one set of electrical receptacles and one set of external power connection terminal. The housing forms at least one set of through holes corresponding to the electrical receptacles and a slot located close to the through holes. The control switch is associated with at least one set of the electrical receptacles and includes a switching pivot structure and a depression structure. The switching pivot structure is arranged inside the housing in engagement with the electrical circuit. The depression structure straddles the switching pivot and includes a pushbutton exposed through the slot. The LED indicator is received through a wall of the housing to be fixed inside the housing and is electrically connected to the electrical circuit and the control switch.
US08152541B2 Card connector
A card connector which effectively prevents erroneous insertion of a card having a width smaller than a specified width has an introducing space formed between a body having contacts and a cover. An insertion preventing wall is formed in the body facing the upstream side in the card inserting direction. The cover includes a restricting plate projecting toward the introducing space, with the restricting plate being under a posture projecting further toward the introducing space on the downstream side in the card inserting direction. The restricting plate forms, at widthwise opposed ends thereof, contacting pieces which are deformed as coming into contact with widthwise opposed ends of a card, thereby lifting up the restricting plate.
US08152538B1 Fluid bonding fitting and assembly and system incorporating the fitting, and method of use
An assembly for bonding a fluid, wherein the assembly comprises a fitting having an electrically conductive body comprising: a base, a first extension member which extends from a first part of the base, and a second extension member which extends from a second part of the base; and an electrically conductive protrusion extending from an exterior surface of the body; a fluid filter having a receiver which is in operable communication with the first extension member of the fitting; and a pump which draws the fluid from a fluid source and into the fluid filter, wherein the fluid further flows from the fluid filter and through the fitting; whereby the fluid, when it flows through the fitting, and when a bond wire is in electrical communication with the electrically conductive protrusion of the fitting, is bonded.
US08152536B2 Connection device for connection to a solar module and solar module comprising such connection device
A connecting device for connecting to an electrical connection system of a solar module includes a connector housing to be arranged on an outer surface of the solar module and also at least one conductor component, which is arranged in the connector housing. At least one connection mechanism is provided with connecting device, and formed for connecting to a conductor, which is led out of the solar module, of the electrical connection system of the solar module. The connection mechanism has at least one resilient contact region, which is embodied for contacting the led-out conductor in a contacting position, the connection mechanism also includes at least one engagement portion, which is embodied for engaging a tool in order to move the resilient contact region out of its contacting position. This allows the connector housing to be attached to the connector housing in a largely automated manner and to be connected to a led-out conductor of the connection system.
US08152524B2 Dental handpiece
Two nozzles 37 in pair are provided along an inner circumferential surface 21a of a concavity 21, air is blown out in a space from a blowout hole 37a provided at a tip end portion of the nozzle from a side where the nozzle 37 is provided aiming at an opposite side along an inner circumferential surface of the space and a powder contained in the concavity 21 is caused to rise up in the space, whereby the condition of the powder mixed with the air within the space is improved.
US08152523B2 Method and system for comprehensive evaluation of orthodontic care using unified workstation
A method and system for orthodontic treatment planning, evaluation and quality measurement is provided comprising a workstation having computing platform, a graphical user interface, a processor and a computer storage medium containing digitized records pertaining to a patient. The digitized records include image and other types of data. The computer storage medium further includes a set of software instructions providing graphical user interface tools for providing a user with access to the digitized records for planning orthodontic treatment of a patient. Also provided are reference databases for aiding in the decision process during treatment selection, treatment planning and treatment delivery and progress monitoring and evaluation. Also provided are parameter or criteria measurement techniques and generally acceptable thresholds, which can be updated through learning process and through acquisition of patient data. Once the treatment is planned, the virtual dentition model of the patient in the proposed treatment set-up or the target state is evaluated using several virtual model evaluation features and criteria.
US08152518B2 Dental positioning appliance having metallic portion
Embodiments are provided for utilizing metallic portions in dental positioning appliances. One embodiment includes a removable dental positioning appliance having a shell having one or more cavities shaped to receive and reposition one or more teeth from a first orientation to a successive orientation and where at least a portion of the shell is formed from a metallic mesh material.
US08152484B2 Engine cooling fan assembly
A fan assembly that includes a fan having a fan hub and motor having a drive shaft and a drive member coupled to the drive shaft for rotation with the drive shaft. The fan hub includes an inner face and an outer face. The drive member contacts the inner face of the fan hub to define a plurality of discrete drive member contact zones between the drive member and the inner face of the fan hub. A clip engages the drive shaft and the outer face of the fan hub to couple the fan to the drive shaft. The clip contacts the outer face of the fan hub to define a plurality of discrete clip contact zones between the clip and the outer face of the fan hub. The plurality of drive member contact zones are generally aligned with the plurality of clip contact zones.
US08152483B2 Variable capacity compressor
The variable capacity compressor has a rotor 21, as a rotating member, fixed to a drive shaft 10 and rotating integrally with the drive shaft 10, a swash plate 24, as a tilting member, tiltably and slidably attached to the drive shaft 10, a linkage mechanism 40 linking the rotor 21 and the swash plate 24 at a position corresponding to an upper dead center of the swash plate 24, transferring rotation of the rotor 21 to the swash plate 24, and guiding the tilting movement of the swash plate 24, and a tilting movement guide 60 provided between the rotor 21 and the swash plate 24 and anterior to the linkage mechanism 40 in the rotating direction and guiding changes of the inclination angle of the swash plate 24 with respect to the drive shaft 10.
US08152477B2 Electrokinetic pump designs and drug delivery systems
One embodiment of the present invention provides a piston assembly having a piston housing filled with an electrolyte; a housing within the piston housing that divides the piston housing into a first portion and a second portion, the housing having apertures, a shaft connecting the housing to a piston head outside of the piston housing; and a porous material inside of the housing in contact with the electrolyte. Additionally, there are provided a method for filling the delivery chamber with a delivery fluid by withdrawing the piston head from within the delivery chamber. Yet another embodiment provides a method for filling a fluid delivery assembly by withdrawing a shaft from within the fluid delivery assembly to simultaneously displace a moving pump element within the delivery chamber and bypass fluid around a housing in the pump chamber.
US08152470B2 Device for the adjustment of the pitch of a motor blade of a wind turbine
A device is provided for the adjustment of the pitch of a rotor blade of a wind turbine. The device includes a pitch actuator and a fixing device. The pitch actuator includes a tube. The fixing device includes a first and a second ring-like element, each of which is arranged at the tube and each of which is supported towards a respective stopper assigned to the tube, and a clamping means which press the first and the second ring-like element in such a way towards the respective stopper that the fixing device and the tube are substantially non-relocatable relatively to each other.
US08152469B2 Annular turbine ring rotor
A fan-turbine rotor assembly (24) includes one or more turbine ring rotors (32). Each turbine ring rotor is cast as a single integral annular ring. By forming the turbine as one or more rings, leakage between adjacent blade platforms is minimized which increases engine efficiency. Assembly of the turbine ring rotors to the diffuser ring (114) includes axial installation and radial locking of each turbine ring rotor.
US08152468B2 Divoted airfoil baffle having aimed cooling holes
A baffle insert for an internally cooled airfoil comprises a liner, a divoted segment and a plurality of cooling holes. The liner has a continuous perimeter formed to shape a hollow body having a first end and a second end. The divoted segment of the hollow body is positioned between the first end and the second end. The plurality of cooling holes is positioned on the divoted segment to aim cooling air exiting the baffle insert at a common location.
US08152460B2 Device for bleeding air from a turbomachine compressor
A turbomachine compressor, including an air bleed device including a duct having a suction end opening out into an outer casing of the compressor level with a rotor wheel and a stator stage of the compressor is disclosed. A screen sheet of annular shape is mounted radially inside the casing facing a portion of the suction end of the duct so as to make the bleeding of air uniform over 360° around the axis of the compressor.
US08152459B2 Airfoil for axial-flow compressor capable of lowering loss in low Reynolds number region
In a transonic region with a Reynolds number not more than a critical Reynolds number, a flow velocity distribution on an extrados of an airfoil has a single supersonic maximum value within a range of up to 6% from a leading edge on a chord, or a shape factor has a maximum value in a region of 6 to 15% from the leading edge on the chord, the value being nearly constant in a region of 30 to 60% and gradually can increase up to 2.5 in a region downstream of 60% of chord. A pressure loss in a low Reynolds number region can be drastically reduced, while conventionally keeping low the pressure loss in a high Reynolds number region. Moreover, this pressure-loss reduction effect in the low Reynolds number region is exerted even if an inflow angle is changed in a wide range.
US08152455B2 Suspension arrangement for the casing shroud segments
A suspension arrangement for the casing shroud segments of the high-pressure turbine of a jet engine with inclination or graduation of the rotor blade tips (4) includes spaced apart attaching hooks (11) formed onto the casing shroud segments (2) which engage an axial retaining groove (13) on the turbine casing (1) on the upstream side and which are axially retained in the downstream direction by a retaining ring (14) arranged in a retaining ring groove (15) formed onto the turbine casing. In the retaining ring groove (15), assembly pockets (19) are provided on the downstream side, with the assembly pockets (19) agreeing with the distance and dimensioning of the attaching hooks (11), so that—with the rotor installed—axial travel (s2) of the casing shroud segments (2) is reduced and handling clearance is increased, when the casing shroud segments (2) are installed.
US08152452B2 Computer room environmental conditioning unit with translatable blowers
A conditioning unit can allow the blower to be easily translated from a first operable position in the conditioning unit to a second operable position external to the conditioning unit. The translation of the blower does not require the disconnection of the blower and, accordingly, does not require that the blower be disconnected and reconnected to the control system. Such capability can facilitate the installation of the conditioning unit into a variety of applications and allows the purchaser to customize the blower location based on the desired performance. The ability to customize the installation of the conditioning unit without requiring disconnection and reconnection of the blower can reduce the cost and expense associated with the installation into differing applications.