Document Document Title
US08330556B2 Passivation layers in acoustic resonators
An acoustic resonator, comprises a substrate and a first passivation layer disposed over the substrate. The first passivation layer comprises a first layer of silicon carbide (SiC). The acoustic resonator further comprises a first electrode disposed over the passivation layer, a second electrode, and a piezoelectric layer disposed between the first and second electrodes. The acoustic resonator comprises a second passivation layer disposed over the second electrode. The second passivation layer comprises a second layer of silicon carbide (SiC).
US08330555B2 Bandpass filter, and wireless communication module and wireless communication apparatus which employ the bandpass filter
An ultra-wideband bandpass filter having two adequately-wide pass bands, and a wireless communication module and a wireless communication apparatus which employ the bandpass filter are provided. In a bandpass filter, first resonant electrodes are arranged on a first interlayer of a multilayer body in an interdigital form; a plurality of second resonant electrodes are arranged on a second interlayer in an interdigital form; and an input coupling electrode and an output coupling electrode are arranged on a third interlayer located between the first interlayer and the second interlayer. The input coupling electrode faces an input-stage first resonant electrode and an input-stage second resonant electrode in an interdigital form. The output coupling electrode faces an output stage first resonant electrode and an output-stage second resonant electrode in an interdigital form.
US08330554B2 Radio frequency filter
Parameters of a radio frequency filter can be changed by changing structure of each component of the filter. Material of each component, diameters of each of magnetic cylinders, density of each of conductive coils, thickness of a dielectric layer, and thickness of an insulation tube can be changed. When any component needs to be replaced, each cover is rotated, with connection partitions move to two slots of a resisting portion, to detach the filter.
US08330552B2 Sandwich structure for directional coupler
A sandwich strip coupled coupler implemented in a multi-layer substrate, such as a multi-layer printed circuit board. In one example, the sandwich strip coupled coupler includes a main arm having a first main arm section and a second main arm section disposed above the first main arm section, the first and second main arm sections being electrically connected together, and a coupled arm disposed between the first and second main arm sections, the first main arm section, the coupled arm and the second main arm section forming a sandwich structure.
US08330549B1 Oscillator circuit with voltage booster
An oscillator circuit with a voltage booster includes separated coils to oscillate and boost the input direct current voltage. The two coils are wound in opposite directs and magnetically coupled to one another. One of the coils is in series with a capacitor to form a LC oscillator. The circuit enables changing the frequency of oscillation by changing the number of turns on the coil in series with the capacitor or by changing the value of the capacitor. The output voltage level can be changed by changing the number of turns on the remaining coil.
US08330545B2 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.
US08330542B2 Power amplifier
Power amplifier for amplifying an electric input signal in an operational frequency range and providing an output signal, comprising switching means (12) for generating a block wave signal by alternately switching the block wave signal to a first supply voltage or a second supply voltage, input means for receiving the electric signal and driving the switching means, wherein the input means comprises an integrator circuit (10) integrating an error signal formed by a difference between the output signal and the electric input signal and providing an integrator gain in the operational frequency range, the power amplifier further comprising a local feedback circuit (18), and a global feedback circuit (20), an output of the integrator circuit being connected the input of the switching mean A limiter circuit (22) is connected to receive the electric input signal and an output signal of the integrator circuit and connected to the integrator circuit for limiting the gain of the integrator circuit when detecting a difference between the electric input signal and the output signal of the integrator circuit exceeding a predetermined value.
US08330540B2 Model based distortion reduction for power amplifiers
A method of processing a signal is disclosed. The method comprises generating a digital signal, converting the digital signal to an analog signal, and generating an amplified analog signal having distortions. The method further comprises converting the amplified analog signal to a feedback digital signal at a sample rate and updating a model of the distortions based on the feedback digital signal.
US08330536B1 Differential reference interface with low noise offset cancellation
An offset cancellation circuit can include an amplifier having a negative input, a positive input, and a single-ended output, wherein the positive input is configured to receive a reference voltage. The circuit also can include a capacitor having a first terminal and a second terminal. The first terminal can be coupled to the negative input of the amplifier. The capacitor can be configured to sample the offset voltage of the amplifier. The second terminal of the capacitor can be selectively coupled to the output of the amplifier.
US08330534B2 Circuit for negative bias temperature instability compensation
An integrated circuit device includes a first circuit for providing current to a first node, and a degradation compensator including a first compensation circuit coupled to the first node to provide compensation current to the first node. The degradation compensator is operable to estimate a degree of degradation in the first circuit and provide a compensation signal to the first compensation circuit to control the amount of compensation current based on the estimated degree of degradation.
US08330529B1 Voltage regulator
Embodiments of a method, apparatus and circuit for voltage regulation are disclosed. One embodiment of a circuit includes a first field effect transistor (FET) having a gate, a drain and a source. A current source is connected to the drain of the FET. A second FET has a source connected to the source of the first FET by a node. The second FET also has a gate. A low-pass filter circuit has an input connected to the gate of the first FET and an output connected to the gate of the second FET.
US08330526B2 Low voltage detector
A low voltage detector (100) includes a voltage and current reference circuit (102); a power supply voltage monitor circuit (104), coupled to the voltage and current reference circuit and to a power supply; and a voltage comparator (106), coupled to the voltage and current reference circuit and to the power supply voltage monitor circuit. The voltage and current reference circuit includes a self-cascode MOSFET structure (SCM) (110) that produces a reference voltage. The power supply voltage monitoring circuit includes another SCM (140) that produces a monitor voltage, related to the power supply voltage. The reference voltage and the monitor voltage have a same behavior with changes in temperature, thereby allowing the trip point of the low voltage detector to minimally vary with temperature. The low voltage detector is disposed on an integrated circuit (101), and the transistors of the low voltage detector consist of only CMOS transistors.
US08330521B2 Level shift circuit with improved DV/DT sensing and noise blocking
A level shift circuit in accordance with the present application seeks to meet the need of high voltage level shift signaling with minimum delay and power dissipation by using parasitic emulation, blocking of signaling during times of common mode noise, and mismatch filtering to enhance operation robustness to circuit mismatch and delay. A dv/dt sensing circuit is provided to detect any slew in offset between negative supply voltages and ground in a circuit. This detection is used to control a noise canceling circuit to ensure that noise that results from that offset is not propagated to the output of the level shift circuit. A parasitic emulator is preferably used to provide dv/dt sensing. The output of the parasitic emulator is used to activate a noise canceling circuit to prevent noise from reaching the output terminal of the level shift circuit.
US08330512B2 Variable unit delay circuit and clock generation circuit for semiconductor apparatus using the same
A clock generation circuit of a semiconductor apparatus includes a first phase detection block configured to compare initial phases of a reference clock signal and an output clock signal in response to an operation start signal, and output an initial phase difference detection signal corresponding to a comparison result; a second phase detection block configured to compare phases of the reference clock signal and the output clock signal, and output a phase detection signal corresponding to a comparison result; a variable unit delay block determined in a control range of the delay amount thereof in response to the initial phase difference detection signal, and configured to delay the reference clock signal by a delay amount corresponding to a voltage level of a control voltage and output the output clock signal; and a delay control block configured to generate the control voltage which has the voltage level corresponding to the phase detection signal.
US08330501B1 Dual mode rail-to-rail buffer for low voltage memory
A system for voltage buffering within an integrated circuit (IC). The system can include a first buffer having an input and an output. The first buffer can be configured to buffer a received maximum input voltage approximately equal to a positive voltage supply powering the system. The system can include a second buffer having an input and an output. The input of the first buffer can be coupled to the input of the second buffer. The output of the first buffer can be coupled to the output of the second buffer. The second buffer can be configured to buffer a received minimum input voltage approximately equal to a negative voltage supply powering the system. The system further can include a controller configured to selectively enable only the first buffer or the second buffer at any given time.
US08330493B2 High utilization universal logic array with variable circuit topology and logistic map circuit to realize a variety of logic gates with constant power signatures
Disclosed is a novel circuit able to generate any logic combination possible as a function of the input logic signals. The circuit is described as a 2 input logistic map circuit but may be expanded to 3 or more inputs as required. Further disclosed is a universal logic array with variable circuit topology. A metallization layer and/or a via interconnection between cells in the array elements produce a circuit topology that implements a Boolean function and/or chaotic function and/or a logic function. The novel circuit provides a circuit topology for secure applications with no obvious physical correspondence between control signal values and input to output mapping. Further disclosed is a network which has a power signature independent of input signal state and output transition. This provides a very useful circuit to protect data from decryption from power signature analysis in secure applications.
US08330490B2 Interlock circuit and interlock system including the same
An interlock circuit includes an input delay unit and an output suppressing unit. The input delay unit delays a plurality of input signals, provides a plurality of delayed input signals, and provides a plurality of exclusive input signals by performing a logical operation on the plurality of delayed input signals. The output suppressing unit provides a plurality of output signals, which are not simultaneously enabled, based on the plurality of exclusive input signals and the plurality of input signals.
US08330487B2 Semiconductor device
The semiconductor device may include, but is not limited to, a first switching circuit, a second switching circuit, and a control circuit. The first switching circuit switches between first and second states. The second switching circuit switches between the first and second states. The second switching circuit reduces a first power impedance across the first switching circuit. The control circuit is coupled to the first and second switching circuits. The control circuit keeps the first switching circuit in the first state. The control circuit switches the second switching circuit from the second state to the first state.
US08330480B2 Interconnection card for inspection, manufacture method for interconnection card, and inspection method using interconnection card
Recesses are formed on one surface of a substrate. A conductive film covers an inner surface of each of the recesses. This conductive film contacts a bump of a semiconductor device to be inspected and is electrically connected to the bump. It is therefore possible to prevent damages of the bump to be caused by contact of a probe pin.
US08330477B1 Test engine for integrated circuit chip testing
Some of the embodiments of the present disclosure provide an integrated circuit (IC) chip comprising a die, a system on chip (SOC) coupled to the die, and an internal test engine included in the SOC and configured to test the die, wherein one or more components within the IC chip may be configured to be tested by an external test engine coupled to the IC chip. Other embodiments are also described and claimed.
US08330475B2 Circuit for detecting a magnitude and phase of an impedance of a load
The invention relates to an antenna which is coupled to an RF amplifier. Environmental conditions change the impedance of the antenna, which reduces output power, efficiency and linearity. A circuit is provided which is designed to detect the impedance of the antenna. With the measured impedance, impedance matching can be accomplished. The circuit for detecting the impedance detects the signal travelling from the RF amplifier to the antenna, and measures the peak voltage and the peak current of this signal. Furthermore, the phase difference between the voltage and the current is measured. The advantage of the circuit is its compactness allowing for an easy integration on a chip. Furthermore, an impedance matching circuit is suggested which makes use of the above circuit for detecting the impedance.
US08330463B2 Protection of a multidirectional antenna
The disclosure provides an apparatus and method for estimating one or more formation properties downhole. The apparatus includes a tool body that has a longitudinal axis. The tool body has a number of metallic pillars that are attached to or are an integral part of the tool body. Antenna wires may be positioned on the tool body between the pillars in a plurality of orientations to provide a multidirectional antenna. An insulating material is used to cover the antenna wires. A high magnetic permeability material is placed between the antenna wires and the tool body. The antenna may be configured to operate as a transmitter or as a receiver for a resistivity sensor or an NMR sensor.
US08330455B2 Sensor arrangement for a shaft that is mounted in a magnetic bearing
A sensor arrangement for a shaft that is mounted in a magnetic bearing. The arrangement has magnetic shielding which shields the magnetic bearing by forming a magnetically shielded area, magnetic encoding that is situated on the shaft in the magnetically shielded area and at least one receiver that detects at least one alteration of the magnetic field of the magnetic encoding. The aforementioned sensor arrangement for a shaft that is mounted in a magnetic bearing permits the an arrangement of this type that uses magnetic encoding of the shaft to detect the position of the shaft in the closest proximity possible to the magnetic bearing.
US08330452B2 Belt monitoring system
A belt monitoring system which can accurately monitor the condition of a conveyor belt by correcting it for the effect of belt deviation. Wear detecting magnets (11), which are rubber magnets spanning the entire belt width, are embedded at intervals along the circumferential direction of the conveyor belt (2). Also, position determining magnets (12, 12z) are embedded in positions a predetermined distance apart from the wear detecting magnets (11). In addition, a plurality of magnetic field detecting means (13: 13A-13G) for detecting the magnetic fields from the magnets (11, 12, 12z), which are arranged at predetermined intervals in the width direction of the conveyor belt (2), are disposed in a position spaced apart from the surface of the conveyor belt (2). The state of deviation of the conveyor belt (2) is detected based on the output signals from the position determining magnets (12, 12z) detected by the magnetic field detection means (13), and then the belt thickness distribution of the conveyor belt (2) in the width direction is corrected based on the detected state of belt deviation.
US08330451B2 Sensor for measuring rotational speeds as well as for the simultaneous determination of direction of rotation
A measurement of a lower and a higher speed of rotation is taking place via the inductive sensor. A sensor unit, which comprises a pulse generator, a transmitter side and a receiver side, is used for determining the speed of rotation, whereby the transmitter side comprises a transmitter inductor connected with an oscillator, and the receiver side comprises two receiving inductors. The signal, which is generated by the two receiver inductors and transmitted along each of the signal paths, is forwarded to two signal processing units. Through each of the two signal paths, for lower and higher speed of rotation, the processed signal is forwarded to a logic device.
US08330450B2 Magnetic position sensor
A magnetic position sensor consisting of a non-electroconductive, non-magnetic carrier on which a resistive layer is arranged, in addition to a pick-off layer which is located at a distance from the resistive layer and at least partially overlaps the same. The distance between the two layers is selected in such a way that contact is established between the two layers by a magnetic device that can be moved along the overlapping regions of the resistive layer and the pick-off layer. The pick-off layer is a film which consists of a ferromagnetic material and is electroconductive at least on one side. The pick-off layer is a film which consists of a ferromagnetic material and is electroconductive at least on one side.
US08330442B2 DC to DC converter and method for reducing overshoot
A DC to DC converter includes a control circuit, a gate driver circuit, and a power stage circuit. The control circuit receives and compares a DC output voltage. When the DC output voltage lower than a first threshold voltage, a PWM signal with a first frequency is outputted, and when the DC output voltage higher than the first threshold voltage, the PWM signal with a second frequency is outputted. The second frequency is higher than the first frequency. The gate driver circuit receives the PWM signal and converts the PWM signal to a first driving signal and a second driving signal. The power stage circuit converts a DC input voltage to the DC output voltage according to the first driving signal and the second driving signal.
US08330424B2 Battery's state-of-charge balancing control method for hybrid vehicle
A battery's state-of-charge (SOC) balancing control method for a hybrid vehicle is provided, in which the outside air temperature at a traveling destination is reflected to perform the control.
US08330421B2 Battery pack manager
An apparatus for lessening variations in a state of charge (SOC) or remaining capacity of a battery pack. The battery pack is made up of a plurality of blocks, and slave units are provided for the respective blocks. Terminal voltages of the blocks are detected and supplied to a master unit. Variations arise in a state of charge or remaining capacity of the respective blocks for reasons of differences among the slave units in terms of electric power consumption. The master unit controls deactivation timing of the respective slave units incidental to turning off of a vehicle ignition according to the variations in the state of charge of the respective blocks. The deactivation timing is delayed much longer with an increase in the state of charge, thereby equalizing the state of charge or the remaining capacity.
US08330419B2 Dynamically reconfigurable framework for a large-scale battery system
A dynamically reconfigurable battery framework for management of a large-scale battery system systems is provided. The framework monitors, reconfigures, and controls large-scale battery systems online. The framework is built upon a topology-based bypassing mechanism that provides a set of rules for changing the battery-pack configuration, and a semantic bypassing mechanism by which the battery-cell connectivity is reconfigured to recover from a battery-cell failure. More specifically, the semantic bypassing mechanism implements a constant-voltage-keeping policy and a dynamic-voltage-allowing policy. The former policy is effective in preventing unavoidable voltage drops during the battery lifetime, while the latter policy is effective in supplying different amounts of power to meet a wide-range of application requirements.
US08330418B2 Power supply device capable of equalizing electrical properties of batteries
A transformer 21 includes charging secondary winding lines 24 that can charge batteries 11 composing a corresponding cell block, and a discharging secondary winding line 26 that can discharge the corresponding cell block. Each of the charging secondary winding lines 24 is connected to corresponding one of the batteries 11 through corresponding one of secondary-side rectification output circuits 25 and corresponding one of output control switches 22. The discharging secondary winding line 26 is connected to a block discharging circuit through a block discharging switch 28. A switching control circuit 23 controls the block discharging switch 28. The switching control circuit 23 controls the output control switches 22 so that the electrical properties of the batteries 11 in the cell block are equalized. In addition, the switching control circuits 23 control the block discharging switches 28 so that the electrical properties of the batteries among the cell blocks are equalized.
US08330416B2 Battery module and charging module
A thin and compact battery module capable of suppressing an increase in temperature of the battery in the battery module when the battery is charged. The battery module 20 includes a power circuit 21 having a heat-generating multilayer inductor 21A, a resin layer 22 in which the power circuit 21 is embedded, and a secondary cell arranged on the top face of the resin layer 22. The resin layer 22 has multiple recesses 22A in a portion that is in contact with the secondary cell 23.
US08330412B2 Monitoring and control system for an electrical storage system of a vehicle
A method of monitoring an electrical storage system. The method includes providing an electrical storage element defining a total storage capacity and having a state of charge cooperatively defining a total stored charge of the electrical storage element, determining a total stored charge value representative of the total stored charge of the electrical storage element, varying the total stored charge by charging the electrical storage element from the power source via an electrical charge or discharging the electrical storage element to the load via an electrical discharge, and updating the total stored charge value after varying the total stored charge.
US08330407B2 Electronic system and protection method for electric motors
An electronic protection system for motors is provided that includes electric current (SC1-n) sensor elements, more specifically Hall positioning sensors, and electronic circuits for electric tension reading. The signals are processed by a central processor (2) that executes a set of rules (A, B, C) and makes inferences based on the collected data in order to protect the motor (M, M′) against possible failure. Furthermore, a method to protect motors (M, M′) is provided, based on a set of rules (A, B, C) in order to characterize failures and trends of possible failures, so that the motor does not operate out of its specification for the system to deactivate it.
US08330405B2 Method and apparatus for increased current stability in a PWM drive
The present invention provides an improved current regulator for PWM based drives for electric motors. The invention provides compensation for the rotor position signal for delays introduced due to the PWM algorithm and for digital sampling present in such a drive. Current regulator commonly operate in a two-phase reference frame, requiring forward and reverse coordinate transformations between the physical current values and the two-phase reference frame variables. The present invention provides an improved compensation in the forward transformation by determining the phase lag between the commanded voltage reference and the output voltage reference and by further compensating the forward transformation for errors introduced due to sampling the current either at different sampling instances than the rotor position or at multiple sampling instances during a carrier period. Additionally, compensation during the reverse transformation is provided to compensate for errors introduced due to sampling the current and rotor position.
US08330398B2 Method and system to start multiple AC motors supplied by a power converter via a common AC bus
A method to start at least two AC motors that are supplied from a common AC bus, which in turn is supplied from a power converter. At least one of the AC motors is an electrically excited synchronous motor including an excitation circuit. The synchronous motor is started first. During starting of remaining of the at least two AC motors a reactive power supplied by the power converter is determined and an increase of a field current or of a field voltage of the synchronous motor in linear dependence on the reactive power supplied by the power converter is determined. The increased field current or field voltage is applied to the excitation circuit of the synchronous motor.
US08330394B2 Light source of LED and method for producing light source with varying color while dimming
A light source of LED includes at least one first LED and at least one second LED. The first LED has a first optical illuminant characteristic varying with a variable operation voltage from a first level to a second level, wherein the first level is larger than the second level. The second LED has a second optical illuminant characteristic varying with the variable operation voltage from a third level to a fourth level, wherein the third level is smaller than the fourth level. The first LED and the second LED are simultaneously controlled by the same variable operation voltage to produce a light.
US08330387B2 Solid-state lighting device
A solid-state lighting device (500) includes a plurality of light-emitting elements (510, 525, 530) configured for generating light that are thermally coupled to a heat spreading chassis configured for coupling to one or more heat sinks (520). The lighting device further includes a mixing chamber which is optically coupled to the plurality of light-emitting elements and configured to mix the light emitted by the plurality of light-emitting elements. A control system is operatively coupled to the plurality of light-emitting elements, and configured to control operation of the plurality of light-emitting elements.
US08330378B2 Illumination device and method for controlling a color temperature of irradiated light
An illumination device is provided for controlling a color temperature of light irradiated from a light source having a plurality of light-emitting elements of different light colors. A control setting module provides a control signal associated with a desired color temperature for the irradiated light. A light quantity determination circuit determines light quantities for each of the light-emitting elements based on a relationship between the control signal from the control setting module and an inverse color temperature. A plurality of driver circuits provide driver signals to the light-emitting elements corresponding to the determined light quantities. In this manner the color temperature for light irradiated from the light source coincides with the desired color temperature.
US08330370B2 Compact fluorescent lamp with improved thermal management
A compact fluorescent lamp includes an inverted compact fluorescent light source housed within an outer envelope. Locating the first and second ends of the coiled CFL source positions the electrodes within a substantially spherical outer envelope at a location remotely spaced from the ballast compartment. In this manner, only small diameter first and second lead wires that mechanically and electrically engage the electrodes pass through small dimensioned passages in a separation member in the outer envelope cavity. This substantially reduces the thermal stress on the components.
US08330359B2 Organic EL element and manufacturing method thereof
An organic EL element is provided with a substrate; an electrode set on the substrate; an organic EL layer set on the electrode; and a bank which define the organic EL layer. A lyophilicity at a top of the bank is higher than a lyophilicity at a bottom surface of the bank, and a lyophilicity of the bank gradually changes from the bottom surface of the bank to the top of the bank.
US08330356B2 Organic light emitting display device with transmittance control layer and method of fabricating the same
An organic light emitting display device (OLED) suppressing a resonance effect and having an enhanced luminance, and a method of fabricating the same, are disclosed. One embodiment of the OLED includes: a substrate; a first electrode disposed over the substrate and having a reflective layer; an organic layer disposed over the first electrode and having a white emission layer; a second electrode disposed over the organic layer; and a transmittance controlled layer (TCL) disposed over the second electrode and having an optical path length of about 260 to about 1520 Å.
US08330352B2 Organic light emitting diode display and method for manufacturing the same
An organic light emitting device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of first, second, and third pixels for displaying different colors, wherein the plurality of first and second pixels are alternately arranged in a first column, the plurality of third pixels are continuously arranged in a second column, and an interval between the third pixels is larger than an interval between the first pixel and the second pixel.
US08330341B2 Compact UV irradiation module
A module is provided for irradiation of at least one substrate. The module includes an irradiation unit for irradiating the substrate with ultraviolet light, wherein the irradiation unit has a discharge lamp with an integrated reflector. A method is also provided for producing an irradiation module for irradiating a substrate using UV light, wherein the reflector is coated on the discharge lamp.
US08330340B2 Light emitting device, plasma display panel, and plasma display device
The light emitting device according to the present invention includes: a substrate (11); a light emitting layer (13) provided on the substrate (11); and a reflective layer (12) provided between the substrate (11) and the light emitting layer (13). The reflective layer (12) includes plate-like inorganic oxide particles. The inorganic oxide particles are accumulated on the substrate (11) in such a way that the largest face of each of the inorganic oxide particles is oriented substantially parallel to the principal plane of the substrate (11).
US08330332B2 Ultrasound transducer featuring a pitch independent interposer and method of making the same
An ultrasound transducer (10) comprises an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) (14), an array of acoustic elements (20), and a pitch independent interposer (12). The ASIC (14) includes a plurality of contact pads (16) on a surface of the ASIC that are separated from adjacent ones thereof by a first pitch. The acoustic elements (22) of the array (20) are separated from adjacent ones thereof by a second pitch. In addition, the pitch independent interposer (12) features a plurality of conductive elements (26) separated from adjacent ones thereof by a third pitch different from both the first pitch and the second pitch. The pitch independent interposer (26) is electrically coupled (i) on a first side to the ASIC via a first subset of the plurality of conductive elements and (ii) on a second side to the array of acoustic elements via a second subset of the plurality of conductive elements, wherein one or more of the plurality of conductive elements (26) electrically couples a contact pad (16) of the ASIC (14) with a corresponding acoustic element (22) of the array (20) of acoustic elements.
US08330325B1 Bulk acoustic resonator comprising non-piezoelectric layer
In a representative embodiment, a bulk acoustic wave (BAW) resonator structure comprises: a first electrode disposed over a substrate; a first piezoelectric layer disposed over the first electrode; a second electrode disposed over the first piezoelectric layer, wherein c-axis orientations of crystals of the first piezoelectric layer are substantially aligned with one another; a second piezoelectric layer disposed over the second electrode; a non-piezoelectric layer; and a third electrode disposed over the second piezoelectric layer.
US08330319B2 Substantially parallel flux uncluttered rotor machines
A permanent magnet-less and brushless synchronous system includes a stator that generates a magnetic rotating field when sourced by polyphase alternating currents. An uncluttered rotor is positioned within the magnetic rotating field and is spaced apart from the stator. An excitation core is spaced apart from the stator and the uncluttered rotor and magnetically couples the uncluttered rotor. The brushless excitation source generates a magnet torque by inducing magnetic poles near an outer peripheral surface of the uncluttered rotor, and the stator currents also generate a reluctance torque by a reaction of the difference between the direct and quadrature magnetic paths of the uncluttered rotor. The system can be used either as a motor or a generator
US08330312B2 Hybrid bearing and method for the production thereof
A hybrid bearing, comprising a first bearing shell with a sliding face and a second bearing shell with a second sliding face, with the first sliding face and the second sliding face being located opposite one another at a bearing gap. The first bearing shell comprises a first support body and the second bearing shell comprises a second support body. Elements which are made of slide bearing material are attached to the first support body and to the second support body, with the elements made of slide bearing material forming at least part of the first sliding face and of the second sliding face. Permanent magnets are connected to the first support body and the second support body, with the permanent magnets being arranged spaced apart from the first sliding face and the second sliding face.
US08330311B2 Magnetic thrust bearing with integrated electronics
A machine is provided, including a magnetic thrust bearing having a rotor portion, a stator portion, and a housing. The housing substantially surrounds the stator portion and the rotor portion. The rotor portion includes a thrust disk adapted to be circumferentially attached to a rotor and to rotate with the rotor. The thrust disk defines a thrust disk first side and a thrust disk second side, the first side being opposite to the second side.
US08330308B2 Motor assembly
A motor assembly comprising a motor unit having a first end and a second end and being couplable adjacent the first end of the motor unit to an external electrical device, the motor unit comprising at least one motor winding extending between the first and second ends and an electrical return path extending from the second end to the first end, the electrical return path being in electrical contact at the first end with an electrical connector for supplying impressed secondary power to the external electrical device, wherein the first end of the motor unit is provided with means for coupling a power source to the motor winding and the second end of the motor unit is provided with means to electrically couple the motor winding to the electrical return path. Also provided is a motor comprising a motor winding having a first end and a second end and an incomplete number of winding turns between the first and second ends, and an electrical return path for passing a current through the motor, the motor winding and the electrical return path being discontinuous.
US08330303B2 Power supply equipment utilizing interchangeable tips to provide a data signal and power from an adapter to various electronic devices
Power supply equipment includes an adapter which converts power from a power source to DC power for powering an electronic device. The adapter further includes circuitry which produces a data signal for use by the electronic device to control power flow within the electronic device. A cable, which is electrically coupled to the adapter, has a connector at its distal end. The power supply equipment further includes a plurality of tips, each of which has an input connector, an output connector and at least three conductors. The input connector of each tip is detachable mateable to the connector on the distal end of the cable. The output connector of each tip is detachably mateable to a corresponding electronic device. The conductors transfer the DC power and the data signal from the input connector to the output connector. A tip output connector has a shape and size dependent on the shape and size of a power input opening of the electronic device to which the tip corresponds. Accordingly, selection of the appropriate tip allows the adapter to provide the data signal, as well as the DC power, to various electronic devices.
US08330295B2 Uninterruptible power supply and method for selective tripping thereof
UPS performance failure is determined independently by itself. Selective tripping can be done within a shorter time than one cycle of an AC output. A UPS converts a DC voltage to an AC voltage and supplies the AC voltage to a load device. A UPS has a control unit identifying a resistance value of an internal resistance as an internal impedance of the UPS by using an instantaneous value of an internal voltage and current and conducting a failure determination by detecting abnormal fluctuation of the value. It is preferred that an identification of the internal impedance is done through a system identification unit.
US08330294B2 Power supply selection/detection circuit
A power supply selection/detection circuit to select one main power supply from a plurality of external power supplies includes a resistance element with one end connected to an external power supply and another end connected to the main power supply, a first voltage detector to receive a voltage of the external power supply and detect a voltage of the external power supply, a second voltage detector to detect a voltage between the ends of the resistance element, and a switch connected between the external power supply and a ground to short-circuit or open-circuit between the external power supply and the ground according to an output of the second voltage detector. The resistance element and the first voltage detector are disposed for each of the plurality of external power supplies, and the second voltage detector and the switch are disposed for at least one of the plurality of external power supplies.
US08330292B2 Power supply providing an integrated power system
A power supply with an integrated power system has a common transformer. After the power supply receives input power, the common transformer generates an induction power at the secondary side. The power supply further includes a standby power system receiving the induction power and outputting a standby power, an actuation switch with one end electrically bridging the common transformer and the standby power system, a primary power system connecting to the other end of the actuation switch, and a power management unit receives the standby power to be activated. The standby power system modulates and transforms the induction power to the standby power to start operation of the power management unit. Users can trigger the power management unit to output an enabling signal to conduct the actuation switch to be ON so that the primary power system can receive the induction power and transform to output the primary output power.
US08330285B2 Method and system for a more efficient and dynamic waste heat recovery system
The present invention relates to a method and system for a more efficient and dynamic waste heat recovery system in an automobile. The present invention includes a heat exchanger connected to a generator. The heat exchanger includes variable pitch impellers attached to and rotating a shaft. The pitch of the impellers can be dynamically varied and the impellers can also be staggered. The generator includes a rotor connected to the shaft. The rotor rotates within a stator when the shaft rotates. The stator includes windings with different thicknesses and different turn ratios allowing for generation of different energy levels by each of the windings. Each of the windings can be dynamically activated. The pitch of the impellers can be dynamically altered and the windings can be dynamically activated depending on energy requirements of an energy storage unit and/or accessories in the automobile.
US08330284B2 Wireless charging of electronic gaming input devices
Embodiments of the invention provide a unique interactive game that includes multiple dynamic layers in which a participant may complete a variety of challenges and/or tasks. For example, the participant may obtain a toy “wand” from a retail phase that is usable in an interactive entertainment phase. The interactive entertainment phase may include multiple interrelated layers such that progress in one or more layers may affect the participant's experience in one or more other layers. The participant may also receive training on how to use the wand and/or complete one or more special effects, adventures and/or quests. During or following the interactive entertainment phase, the participant may use accumulated points and/or powers to redeem prizes and/or compete against other participants, such as in a duel.
US08330278B2 Semiconductor package including a plurality of stacked semiconductor devices
A semiconductor package that includes a first semiconductor device mounted on a package substrate and includes an inactive surface having a cavity and an active surface opposite to the inactive surface, a second semiconductor device that is disposed on the active surface and electrically connected to the first semiconductor device, and a third semiconductor device that is disposed on the inactive surface in the cavity and electrically connected to the first semiconductor device. The first semiconductor device includes at least one first through electrode electrically connecting the first semiconductor device to the third semiconductor device through the first semiconductor device.
US08330276B2 Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing the same
The semiconductor device includes a first interconnect layer insulating film, first copper interconnects that are embedded in the first interconnect layer insulating film, and an interlayer insulating film that is formed on the first copper interconnects and the first interconnect layer insulating film. The semiconductor device includes a second interconnect layer insulating film that is formed on the interlayer insulating film and second copper interconnects that are embedded in the second interconnect layer insulating film. The first and second interconnect layer insulating films include first and second low dielectric constant films, respectively. The interlayer insulating film has higher mechanical strength than the first and second interconnect layer insulating films.
US08330275B2 Interconnect structure for semiconductor devices
A cap layer for a copper interconnect structure formed in a first dielectric layer is provided. In an embodiment, a conductive layer is located within a dielectric layer and a top surface of the conductive layer has either a recess, a convex surface, or is planar. An alloy layer overlies the conductive layer and is a silicide alloy having a first material from the conductive layer and a second material of germanium, arsenic, tungsten, or gallium.
US08330270B1 Integrated circuit package having a plurality of spaced apart pad portions
An integrated circuit package having a selectively etched leadframe strip defining a die attach pad and a plurality of contact pads, at least one side of the die attach pad having a plurality of spaced apart pad portions; a semiconductor die mounted to the die attach pad and wires bonding the semiconductor die to respective ones of the contact pads; a first surface of the leadframe strip, including the semiconductor die and wire bonds, encapsulated in a molding material such that at least one surface of the leadframe strip is exposed, and wherein solder paste is disposed on said contact pads and said at least one side of said die attach pad.
US08330268B2 Semiconductor package and manufacturing method thereof
A semiconductor package includes a semiconductor substrate having a semiconductor device arranged on one surface thereof; a cap substrate having one surface that opposes the one surface of the semiconductor substrate via a gap; a spacer that is arranged between the one surface of the semiconductor substrate and the one surface of the cap substrate, and that joins the semiconductor substrate and the cap substrate; and a filter that is provided on the cap substrate so as to overlap with the semiconductor device without overlapping with the spacer. The semiconductor package and method of manufacture can suppress exfoliation of the filter caused by chipping during the dicing step.
US08330267B2 Semiconductor package
A semiconductor package includes a patterned metal foil, a chip, wires, a patterned dielectric layer, an adhesive layer, and a molding compound. The patterned metal foil has a first surface and a second surface opposite thereto. The patterned dielectric layer is disposed on the second surface and has openings exposing at least a portion of the patterned metal foil to form joints for external electrical connection. The chip is disposed on the first surface. The adhesive layer is disposed between the chip and the patterned metal foil. The wires respectively connect the chip and the patterned metal foil. The patterned dielectric layer is located below intersections between the wires and the patterned metal foil. The patterned dielectric layer, the wires, and the patterned metal foil overlap with one another on a plane. The molding compound is disposed on the first surface and covers the chip and the wires.
US08330264B2 Packaging configurations for vertical electronic devices using conductive traces disposed on laminated board layers
This invention discloses an electronic package for containing a vertical semiconductor chip that includes a laminated board having a via connector and conductive traces distributed on multiple layers of the laminated board connected to the via connector. The semiconductor chip having at least one electrode connected to the conductive traces for electrically connected to the conductive traces at a different layer on the laminated board and the via connector dissipating heat generated from the vertical semiconductor. A ball grid array (BGA) connected to the via connector functioning as contact at a bottom surface of the package for mounting on electrical terminals disposed on a printed circuit board (PCB) wherein the laminated board having a thermal expansion coefficient in substantially a same range the PCB whereby the BGA having a reliable electrical contact with the electrical terminals.
US08330263B2 Semiconductor device
Various embodiments of the present invention include a semiconductor device and a fabrication method therefor, the semiconductor device including a first semiconductor chip disposed on a substrate, a first sealing resin sealing the first semiconductor chip, a built-in semiconductor device disposed on the first sealing resin, and a second sealing resin sealing the first sealing resin and the built-in semiconductor device and covering a side surface of the substrate. According to an aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a high-quality semiconductor device and a fabrication method therefor, in which downsizing and cost reduction can be realized.
US08330258B2 System and method for improving solder joint reliability in an integrated circuit package
A system and method is disclosed for improving solder joint reliability in an integrated circuit package. Each terminal of a quad, flat, non-leaded integrated circuit package is formed having portions that define a solder slot in the bottom surface of the terminal. An external surface of the die pad of the integrated circuit package is also formed having portions that define a plurality of solder slots on the periphery of the die pad. When solder is applied to the die pad and to the terminals, the solder that fills the solder slots increases the solder joint reliability of the integrated circuit package.
US08330255B2 Semiconductor chip
A semiconductor wafer 10 has a plurality of semiconductor chip areas 10a and a scribe area 10b, each of the semiconductor chip areas 10a having semiconductor elements and electrode pads (electrode portions) 16a electrically connected to the respective semiconductor elements, the scribe area 10b having monitor elements and electrode pads (electrode portions) 16b electrically connected to the monitor elements, wherein projecting electrodes 18 are selectively formed only on the respective electrode pads 16a in the semiconductor chip areas 10a by electroless plating. Thus, for example, the electrode pads 16b are covered with an insulating film 14.
US08330251B2 Semiconductor device structure for reducing mismatch effects
An integrated circuit chip includes a first electronic device, a second electronic device, and a common electrode feature. The first electronic device includes a first feature. The first electronic device has a first footprint area in a given layer. The second electronic device includes a second feature. The second electronic device has a second footprint area in the given layer. The first and second electronic devices are electrically matched. The common electrode feature is common to the first and second electronic devices. The common electrode is at least partially located in the given layer. More than a majority of the first footprint area overlaps with the second footprint area. A first spacing between the first feature and the common electrode feature is about the same as a second spacing between the second feature and the common electrode feature.
US08330231B2 Transistor having gate dielectric protection and structure
A transistor structure is formed by providing a semiconductor substrate and providing a gate above the semiconductor substrate. The gate is separated from the semiconductor substrate by a gate insulating layer. A source and a drain are provided adjacent the gate to define a transistor channel underlying the gate and separated from the gate by the gate insulating layer. A barrier layer is formed by applying nitrogen or carbon on opposing outer vertical sides of the transistor channel between the transistor channel and each of the source and the drain. In each of the nitrogen and the carbon embodiments, the vertical channel barrier retards diffusion of the source/drain dopant species into the transistor channel. There are methods for forming the transistor structure.
US08330227B2 Integrated semiconductor structure for SRAM and fabrication methods thereof
A SRAM device with metal gate transistors is provided. The SRAM device includes a PMOS structure and an NMOS structure over a substrate. Each of the PMOS and the NMOS structure includes a p-type metallic work function layer and an n-type metallic work function layer. The p-type work metallic function layer and the n-type metallic work function layer form a combined work function for the PMOS and the NMOS structures.
US08330223B2 Bipolar transistor
A bipolar transistor has a collector having a base layer provided thereon and a shallow trench isolation structure formed therein. A base poly layer is provided on the shallow trench isolation structure. The shallow trench isolation structure defines a step such that a surface of the collector projects from the shallow trench isolation structure adjacent the collector.
US08330213B2 Power semiconductor devices, methods, and structures with embedded dielectric layers containing permanent charges
Power devices using refilled trenches with permanent charge at or near their sidewalls. These trenches extend vertically into a drift region.
US08330209B2 HTO offset and BL trench process for memory device to improve device performance
Memory devices having an increased effective channel length and/or improved TPD characteristics, and methods of making the memory devices are provided. The memory devices contain two or more memory cells on a semiconductor substrate and bit line dielectrics between the memory cells. The bit line dielectrics can extend into the semiconductor. The memory cell contains a charge trapping dielectric stack, a poly gate, a pair of pocket implant regions, and a pair of bit lines. The bit line can be formed by an implant process at a higher energy level and/or a higher concentration of dopants without suffering device short channel roll off issues because spacers at bit line sidewalls constrain the implant in narrower implant regions.
US08330208B2 Ultrahigh density monolithic three dimensional vertical NAND string memory device and method of making thereof
Monolithic, three dimensional NAND strings include a semiconductor channel, at least one end portion of the semiconductor channel extending substantially perpendicular to a major surface of a substrate, a plurality of control gate electrodes having a strip shape extending substantially parallel to the major surface of the substrate, the blocking dielectric comprising a plurality of blocking dielectric segments, a plurality of discrete charge storage segments, and a tunnel dielectric located between each one of the plurality of the discrete charge storage segments and the semiconductor channel.
US08330205B2 Nonvolatile semiconductor device including a floating gate and associated systems
A memory device includes a first floating gate electrode on a substrate between adjacent isolation layers in the substrate, at least a portion of the first floating gate protruding above a portion of the adjacent isolation layers, a second floating gate electrode, electrically connected to the first floating gate electrode, on at least one of the adjacent isolation layers, a dielectric layer over the first and second floating gate electrodes, and a control gate over the dielectric layer and the first and second floating gate electrodes.
US08330197B2 Semiconductor device having a reduced bit line parasitic capacitance and method for manufacturing the same
A semiconductor device having a reduced bit line parasitic capacitance and a method of making same is presented. The semiconductor device includes a first, second, third, and fourth interlayer dielectric layers, first and second bit lines, first and second landing plug and first and second storage node contacts. An optional capacitor may be added to complete a CMOS configuration for the semiconductor device. The storage node contacts traverse through the interlayer dielectric layer and are electrically coupled to their respective landing plug contacts. The storage node contacts are deliberately offset, relative to the center of the corresponding landing plug contacts, at a predetermined distance in a direction away from the first bit line. This offsetting aids reducing the parasitic capacitance between the bit line and a storage node.
US08330183B2 Light emitting element and fabricating method thereof
The light emitting element includes a substrate; a first block pattern formed on the substrate; a light emitter including a first semiconductor pattern of a first conductivity type, a light emitting pattern, and a second semiconductor pattern of a second conductivity type, sequentially stacked on the substrate having the first block pattern formed thereon, the light emitter having a first portion formed on the first block pattern, and a second portion formed between two adjacent first block patterns, the second portion formed lower than the first portion to define a recessed region, and a second block pattern formed on the light emitter to fill the recessed region.
US08330179B2 Semiconductor light-emitting device, method for manufacturing the same, and light-emitting apparatus including the same
A nitride semiconductor light-emitting device includes a layered portion emitting light on a substrate. The layered portion includes an n-type semiconductor layer, an active layer, and a p-type semiconductor layer. The periphery of the layered portion is inclined, and the surface of the n-type semiconductor layer is exposed at the periphery. An n electrode is disposed on the exposed surface of the n-type semiconductor layer. This device structure can enhance the emission efficiency and the light extraction efficiency.
US08330178B2 Package structure and package process of light emitting diode
A light emitted diode (LED) package structure and an LED package process are provided. The LED package structure comprises a carrier, a spacer, at least one LED chip, a junction coating, a plurality of phosphor particles, and an encapsulant. The spacer is disposed on the carrier and provided with a reflective layer covering a top surface of the spacer. The LED chip is disposed on the reflective layer and electrically connected to the carrier. The junction coating is disposed over the spacer and covers the LED chip. The phosphor particles are distributed within the junction coating. The encapsulant is disposed on the carrier and encapsulates the LED chip, the spacer and the junction coating. Uniform light output and high illuminating efficiency can be obtained by the phosphor particles uniformly distributed in the junction coating. The junction coating is formed by package level dispensing process to reduce the fabrication cost.
US08330168B2 Nitride semiconductor light-emitting element and method of manufacturing the same
An object of the present invention is to provide a nitride semiconductor light-emitting device in which contact resistance generated between an n-contact layer and an n-side electrode is effectively reduced while maintaining satisfactory external quantum efficiency, and a method of efficiently producing the nitride semiconductor light-emitting device. Specifically, the present invention characteristically provides a nitride semiconductor light-emitting device having a semiconductor laminated body including an n-type laminate, a light-emitting layer and a p-type laminate, and an n-side electrode and a p-side electrode, characterized in that: the n-type laminate includes an n-contact layer made of an AlxGa1-xN material (0.7≦x≦1.0) and an n-clad layer provided on the n-contact layer; and an interlayer made of an AlyGa1-yN material (0≦y≦0.5) is provided on a partially exposed portion, on the light-emitting layer side, of the n-contact layer.
US08330160B2 Random number generating device
The objective is to provide a random number generating device having a smaller circuit size and a smaller value of output bias. The random number generating device includes a pair of first and second current paths arranged in parallel with each other, and a pair of first and second fine particles, which can mutually exchange charges, and are located in the vicinity of the first and second current paths.
US08330154B2 Piezoelectric and semiconducting coupled nanogenerators
An electrical generator includes a substrate, a semiconductor piezoelectric structure having a first end and an opposite second end disposed adjacent to the substrate, a first conductive contact and a second conductive contact. The structure bends when a force is applied adjacent to the first end, thereby causing an electrical potential difference to exist between a first side and a second side of the structure. The first conductive contact is in electrical communication with the first end and includes a material that creates a Schottky barrier between a portion of the first end of the structure and the first conductive contact. The first conductive contact is also disposed relative to the structure in a position so that the Schottky barrier is forward biased when the structure is deformed, thereby allowing current to flow from the first conductive contact into the first end.
US08330153B2 Organic light-emitting device
Provided is an organic light-emitting device that shows high luminous efficiency even when driven at a high luminance. More specifically, provided is an organic light-emitting device, including: an anode (transparent electrode layer) and a cathode (metal electrode layer); and an organic compound layer being interposed between the anode and the cathode, and including an emission layer, in which: the emission layer has a host, a first dopant, and a second dopant; the host includes an aromatic hydrocarbon compound; the first dopant includes a phosphorescent iridium complex; and the second dopant includes a compound having two triarylamine structures.
US08330152B2 OLED display architecture with improved aperture ratio
A device such as a display region that includes a plurality of multi-color pixels is provided. Each pixel may have several types of organic light emitting devices that operate as sub-pixels, and at least one type of device may be shared by multiple pixels. Less-used and/or more efficient device types, such as deep blue and green light emitting devices, may be shared between multiple pixels, leading to an improved aperture ratio and fill factor for the device.
US08330144B2 Semi-polar nitride-based light emitting structure and method of forming same
A structure and method for producing same provides a solid-state light emitting device with suppressed lattice defects in epitaxially formed nitride layers over a non-c-plane oriented (e.g., semi-polar) template or substrate. A dielectric layer with “window” openings or trenches provides significant suppression of all diagonally running defects during growth. Posts of appropriate height and spacing may further provide suppression of vertically running defects. A layer including gallium nitride is formed over the dielectric layer, and polished to provide a planar growth surface with desired roughness. A tri-layer indium gallium nitride active region is employed. For laser diode embodiments, a relatively thick aluminum gallium nitride cladding layer is provided over the gallium nitride layer.
US08330142B2 Quantum dot light emitting device having quantum dot multilayer
A quantum dot light emitting device includes; a substrate, a first electrode disposed on the substrate, a second electrode disposed substantially opposite to the first electrode, a first charge transport layer disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode, a quantum dot light emitting layer disposed between the first charge transport layer and one of the first electrode and the second electrode, and at least one quantum dot including layer disposed between the quantum dot light emitting layer and the first charge transport layer, wherein the at least one quantum dot including layer has an energy band level different from an energy band level of the quantum dot light emitting layer.
US08330136B2 High concentration nitrogen-containing germanium telluride based memory devices and processes of making
A PCM device has the composition GexTeyNzAm deposited onto a substrate, where x is about 40% to about 60%, y is about 30% to about 49%, and z is about 5% to about 20% and more preferably about 5% to about 40%. The component represented as A is optional and representative of an element of Sb, Sn, In, Ga, or Zn, and m is up to about 15%. The composition is in the form of a film, and the nitrogen allows for the substantially conformal deposition of the film onto the substrate. A CVD process for depositing the PCM comprises delivering a Ge-based precursor and a Te-based precursor in vapor form to a CVD chamber, heating and pressurizing the chamber, and depositing the film onto a substrate. In making a phase change device using this process, the film is annealed and polished.
US08330128B2 Implant mask with moveable hinged mask segments
This apparatus has two mask segments. Each mask segment has apertures that an ion beam may pass through. These mask segments can move between a first and second position using hinges. One or more workpieces are disposed behind the mask segments when these mask segments are in a second position. The two mask segments are configured to cover the one or more workpieces in one instance. Ions are implanted into the one or more workpieces through the apertures in the mask segments.
US08330120B2 Electron beam sterilizer
Even in a case where a spark is generated in an electron beam irradiation device 28, all the vessels 2 being conveyed are sterilized by the irradiation with the electron beam. The electron beam is emitted by heating filaments 42 arranged in a vacuum chamber 40 and the vessels 2 are irradiated with the electron beam taken out into the atmosphere through a window foil 48 of an irradiation window 46 formed to an irradiation section 44. The vessels 2 are conveyed in a state of being held by vessel holding portions 36A and 36B of a vessel conveying device 24 and pass in front of the irradiation window 46. Although the electron beam irradiation is temporarily interrupted when a spark is generated, a length of the irradiation window 46 in a vessel conveying direction X is made larger than a vessel conveying distance in an interruption time.
US08330116B2 Long range neutron-gamma point source detection and imaging using rotating detector
This application relates to radiation detection, and more particularly, to a method and device for the remote detection and localization of nuclear materials in an unknown background. A method and apparatus for long range neutron and gamma ray detection and imaging is disclosed wherein a panel of thin walled tube detectors are rotated to enhance detection performance. The method and apparatus have particular applicability to portable monitoring and homeland security.
US08330113B2 Collimator, radiological imaging apparatus and nuclear medicine diagnosis apparatus
A collimator, a radiological imaging apparatus and a nuclear medicine diagnosis apparatus which are able to improve the sensitivity are provided. The radiological imaging apparatus has a collimator 11 disposed to oppose a radiological detection device 12 and having through-holes 11a for passing to the radiological detection device 12 gamma rays in a specified direction out of those radiated from an object to be examined. The collimator 11 is produced by mutually coupling a plurality of metal tubular members 11A each having the through-hole 11a with the help of a bonding agent S in alignment with a plurality of detectors 12a constituting the radiological detection device 12.
US08330111B2 Monolithically integrated antenna and receiver circuit for the detection of terahertz waves
The present invention relates to a device for detecting millimeter waves, having at least one field effect transistor with a source, a drain, a gate, a gate-source contact, a source-drain channel, and a gate-drain contact. Compared to a similar such device, the problem addressed by the present invention, among others, is that of providing a device which enables the provision of a field effect transistor for detecting the power and/or phase of electromagnetic radiation in the Thz frequency range. In order to create such a device, it is suggested according to the invention, that a device be provided which has an antenna structure wherein the field effect transistor is connected to the antenna structure in such a manner that an electromagnetic signal received by the antenna structure in the THz range is fed into the field effect transistor via the gate-source contact, and wherein the field effect transistor and the antenna structure are arranged together on a single substrate.
US08330110B2 Container, container positioning method, and measuring method
A container according to the present invention contains at least a part of a device under test to be measured by a terahertz wave measurement device. The container includes a gap portion that internally disposes at least a part of the device under test, and an enclosure portion that includes a first flat surface portion and a second flat surface portion, and disposes the gap portion between the first flat surface portion and the second flat surface portion, thereby enclosing the gap portion. Moreover, a relationship n1−0.1≦n2≦n1+0.1 holds where n2 is a refractive index of the enclosure portion, and n1 is a refractive index of the device under test. Further, the first flat surface portion intersects with a travel direction of the terahertz wave at the right angle.
US08330109B2 Method for determining contamination of material using Mid-IR spectroscopy
A method of determining contamination on a material having suspected contamination includes irradiating the material having suspected contamination with infrared energy over a spectrum of wavelengths; detecting the infrared energy reflected from the material having suspected contamination over the spectrum of wavelengths; performing multivariate analysis on the spectrum of the reflected infrared energy; comparing results of the multivariate analysis with a predetermined calibration of infrared energy spectra comprising the spectrum of wavelengths collected from at least one reference material; and determining presence or absence of contamination on the material having suspected contamination based on the predetermined calibration.
US08330103B2 Charged particle beam apparatus and specimen inspection method
In a multi-charged-particle-beam apparatus, when an electric field and voltage on a surface of a specimen are varied according to characteristics of the specimen, a layout of plural primary beams on the surface of the specimen and a layout of plural secondary beams on each detector vary. Then, calibration is executed to adjust the primary beams on the surface of the specimen to an ideal layout corresponding to the variation of operating conditions including inspecting conditions such as an electric field on the surface and voltage applied to the specimen. The layout of the primary beams on the surface of the specimen is acquired as images displayed on a display of reference marks on the stage. Variance with an ideal state of the reference marks is measured based upon these images and is corrected by the adjustment of a primary electron optics system and others.
US08330102B2 Method and device for visualizing distribution of local electric field
A method which visualizes the distribution of a local electric field formed near a sample 2 is disclosed. A primary electron beam 1 which passes through the local electric field formed near the sample 2 is deflected by the local electric field, secondary electrons which are generated and emitted from a detection element provided downstream of an orbit of the deflected primary electron beam 1 are detected by a secondary electron detector 6, and an image formed based on the detected signal and a scanning electron beam image obtained by scanning the sample 2 are synthesized thus visualizing the distribution of the local electric field in multiple tones. Due to such an operation, it is possible to provide a method for visualizing the distribution of a local electric field in which the distribution of a local electric field can be obtained in multiple tone and in real time by performing image scanning one time using a usual electron beam scanning optical system.
US08330091B2 Image sensor formed by silicon rich oxide material
An image sensor includes a light-sensing element, a first transistor, and a second transistor. The light-sensing element has a first end and a second end electrically connected to a select line. The first transistor has a first end electrically connected to a first control line, a control end electrically connected to the first end, and a second end electrically connected to the first end of the light-sensing element. The second transistor has a first end electrically connected to a voltage source, a control end electrically connected to the first end of the light-sensing element, and a second end electrically connected to an output line. The light-sensing element uses the material of silicon rich oxide so that the light-sensing element can sense the luminance variance and have the characteristic of the capacitor for the level boost.
US08330088B2 Target scene generator having a reconfigurable optical waveguide network for testing pulsed laser sensing apparatus
A target scene generator for testing an imaging ladar in a Hard Ware in the Loop arrangement, such as might be employed for testing an optical seeker on a guided missile, the generator comprising an array of pixel elements, a photodetector for detecting incident light from a ladar a laser source for generating pulses of light representing returned ladar pulses, and a reconfigurable fiber network including an optical switch selectively coupling the laser to the pixel elements, and a controller which selectively reconfigures the fiber network, to present to selected pixel elements the pulses of light with selected time delay characteristics such that light emitted from the pixels represent light returned from a target illuminated by the ladar.
US08330087B2 Spectral imaging system with dynamic optical correction
Disclosed herein are multispectral detection methods and systems that can be used with image-forming optics configured to form an image of a sample. The systems include: (a) an imaging detector; (b) relay optics that include multiple optical elements, the relay optics positioned to relay the image formed by the image-forming optics to the imaging detector; (c) an actuator coupled to one of the optical elements in the relay optics and configured to adjust a position of the coupled optical element; and (d) control electronics configured to cause the actuator to adjust the position of the coupled optical element in the relay optics in response to a wavelength band selection by a wavelength selection element positioned to select one wavelength band for the image from among two or more wavelength bands within an overall wavelength range.
US08330082B2 Warming apparatus for contact lenses
Disclosed is a contact lens warming apparatus (100) adapted to warm a contact lens (109) stored in a removably inserted lens container (102), the apparatus comprising a controller (106), a heatable cavity (103) shaped to be conformal to a corresponding contact surface (108) of the inserted lens container (102), said conformal contact surface facilitating the rapid repeatable warming of the contact lens (109), and a heating element (107), wherein the controller (106) is adapted to direct the heating element (107) to warm the inserted lens container (102) thereby warming the contact lens (109) in the lens container (102) in order to reduce discomfort otherwise felt by a wearer of the contact lens (109) when inserting the unwarmed contact lens (109) into their eye.
US08330080B2 Electric oven with adjustable heating element
The present invention is an improved electronic oven; a tabletop, or toaster oven that contains a vertically moveable heating element. The moveable heating element allows a range of foods and/or portions of food to be cooked or heated in the most efficient manner possible, saving time and energy use. A heat directing plate disposed above the moveable heating element further increases efficiency by directing heat onto the food.
US08330076B2 Method and device for removing solder material deposits from a substrate
The present invention relates to a method and to a device for separating solder material deposits (12) from a substrate (10), in which a receiving sleeve (19) having a receiving opening (22) is positioned to overlap with a solder material deposit arranged on the substrate in such a manner that an opening edge (21) of the receiving opening is brought into abutment against the substrate in an essentially sealing manner, the solder material deposit is subjected to thermal energy and a sleeve lumen (23) that is defined by the receiving sleeve and that is disposed transverse to a longitudinal axis (30) of the receiving sleeve is subjected to an air flow (28) that is directed to an output device (29) of the receiving sleeve.
US08330075B2 Control method of optical cutting
The invention discloses a control method of optical cutting. A laser processing module is used to generate a cutting heat source and an auxiliary heat source. The control method of optical cutting includes the steps of determining a cutting path on the work piece first; then calculating a thermal stress distribution along the cutting path according to a heating condition; next determining an irradiation condition for the auxiliary cutting heat source according to the thermal stress distribution induced by the cutting heat source; and irradiating the work piece along the cutting path with the cutting heat source and simultaneously irradiating the work piece with the auxiliary cutting heat source. The cutting of the work piece is therefore finished.
US08330065B2 Switchgear and switchgear operating mechanism
The time period is shortened till a cutoff spring force is released when a switchgear is cut off. This switchgear comprises: a closing shaft; a main lever fixed turnably on the closing shaft and associated with a movable contact; a closing spring; a sub shaft; a sub lever and a latch lever fixed on the sub shaft; a roller mounted on the leading end of the latch lever; a turnable latch and a kick lever; a lock lever made turnable with respect to the latch; a latch returning spring for biasing the latch; a lock returning spring for biasing the kick lever and the lock lever; and a stopper for restricting the turns of the lock lever and the latch.
US08330062B2 Electrical switching component
An apparatus including an electrical switching device to control current to a load and a second case arranged to substantially encapsulate the electrical switching device. The electrical switching device includes a first case; a plurality of contacts disposed in the first case; and an opening in the first case disposed to expose the contacts. The second case is arranged to duct a blast from the opening of the first case of the electrical switching device.
US08330050B2 Wiring board having heat intercepting member
A wiring board comprises a first pad which is provided on a first surface side of a substrate and on which a first electronic component is to be mounted, and a second pad which is provided on the first surface side of the substrate and on which a second electronic component having a larger amount of heat generation in an operation than that of the first electronic component is to be mounted, a first through electrode which penetrates the substrate and has one of ends connected electrically to the first pad, a second through electrode which penetrates the substrate and has one of ends connected electrically to the second pad, a through trench penetrating the substrate in a portion positioned between a first mounting region for the first electronic component and a second mounting region for the second electronic component, and a heat intercepting member provided in the through trench.
US08330042B2 Hinge for cable trough cover
A cable trough system includes a trough member including a base wall and first and second sidewalls extending from the base wall to form a trough. The system also includes a cover including a main body with a first end and a second end, and first and second hinge portions coupled to the first and second ends of the main body. Each of the first and second hinge portions includes a first member that extends to an end positioned to contact an inner surface of the first sidewall, a second member that defines an arm that is positioned to at least partially contact the first sidewall, and an extension member that extends from the second member in a direction opposite to that of the arm. The first and second members have a space therebetween sized to receive a portion of the first sidewall.
US08330036B1 Method of fabrication and structure for multi-junction solar cell formed upon separable substrate
A method of fabricating a multi-junction solar cell on a separable substrate, and structure formed thereby are provided. The method comprises establishing a substrate having a semiconductive composition and forming a sacrificial layer upon the substrate. A solar cell portion is formed upon the sacrificial layer, such that the solar cell portion includes a plurality of multi junction layers. A stabilizing cell layer of semiconductor material is then formed on the solar cell portion, with the stabilizing cell layer having a predetermined thickness greater than a thickness of any individual one of the III-V multi junction layers. Etching is thereafter carried out to remove the sacrificial layer for releasing the solar cell portion from the substrate.
US08330014B2 Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH700245
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH700245. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH700245, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH700245 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH700245.
US08329996B2 Soybean cultivar S080183
A soybean cultivar designated S080183 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar S080183, to the plants of soybean S080183, to plant parts of soybean cultivar S080183, and to methods for producing a soybean plant produced by crossing soybean cultivar S080183 with itself or with another soybean variety. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. This invention also relates to soybean cultivars, or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean variety S080183, to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S080183, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing the cultivar S080183 with another soybean cultivar.
US08329984B2 Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH955017
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH955017. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH955017, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH955017 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH955017.
US08329979B2 Simplified absorbent pad
An absorbent pad having a periphery and useful as a feminine hygiene article. The pad comprises a body-contacting surface comprising fibers from a first web of fibrous material, an absorbent portion comprising fibers from a second web of fibrous material, and a bottom surface comprising fibers from the first web of fibrous material. The absorbent portion is disposed intermediate the body-contacting surface and the bottom surface and extends to the periphery, the surfaces and absorbent portion being joined to one another at portions of the first web that penetrate through the absorbent portion at a plurality of discrete locations.
US08329970B2 Deoxygenation of materials of biological origin
The present invention relates to a method for the deoxygenation of materials of biological origin and particularly to the removal of oxygen from biomass derived organic compounds with carbon monoxide, to yield linear and branched hydrocarbons suitable as biofuels or as blending stocks or components for biofuels, such as gas, gasoline, diesel fuel and aviation fuel, as well as solvents. The method comprises contacting a feedstock with carbon monoxide in the presence of a catalyst comprising a metal selected from a group consisting of ruthenium, manganese, rhodium, rhenium, osmium, iridium, molybdenum, copper, zinc, palladium, platinum and cobalt, in the presence of water, under alkaline conditions at a temperature from 150 to 350° C. and under a pressure from 0.1 to 150 bar, to produce hydrocarbons.
US08329968B2 Production of blended gasoline aviation and diesel fuels from renewable feedstocks
A process for producing at least one blended fuel from a paraffin rich component and a cyclic rich component, where each of the components are generated from a renewable feedstock, is presented. The paraffin rich component is generated from glycerides and free fatty acids in feedstocks such as plant and animal oils. The cyclic rich component is generated from biomass derived pyrolysis oil. The source of the animal or plant oil and the biomass may be the same renewable source.
US08329961B2 Catalyst for producing alcohol
The present invention provides a catalyst for producing alcohols from carboxylic acids by hydrogenation, containing Co metal as an essential component and one or more elements selected from Zr, Y, La, Ce, Si, Al, Sc, V and Mo as a first co-catalyst component, and having 20% or more of cubic phase in the crystal phase of the Co metal, the method for producing the catalyst, and the method for producing an alcohol from a carboxylic acid as a raw material by hydrogenation using the catalyst.
US08329957B2 Synthetic navel orangeworm pheromone composition and methods relating to production of same
One or more embodiments of the invention are directed to the synthetic methods for making lepidopteran pheromones including navel orangeworm pheromones. The synthetic methods involve novel, efficient, and environmentally benign steps and procedures.
US08329951B2 Process for preparing diphenylmethanediamine
The invention provides a process for preparing diphenylmethanediamine, comprising the steps of a) reacting aniline with formaldehyde in the presence of an acid, b) neutralizing the acid with ammonia, c) separating the reaction mixture from step b) into an aqueous phase and an organic phase, d) treating the aqueous phase obtained in step c) with an oxide or hydroxide of an alkaline earth metal, e) separating off the ammonia obtained in step d).
US08329944B2 Method and apparatus for carbonylating methanol with acetic acid enriched flash stream
A carbonylation process for producing acetic acid including: (a) carbonylating methanol or its reactive derivatives in the presence of a Group VIII metal catalyst and methyl iodide promoter to produce a liquid reaction mixture including acetic acid, water, methyl acetate and methyl iodide; (b) feeding the liquid reaction mixture at a feed temperature to a flash vessel which is maintained at a reduced pressure; (c) heating the flash vessel while concurrently flashing the reaction mixture to produce a crude product vapor stream, wherein the reaction mixture is selected and the flow rate of the reaction mixture fed to the flash vessel as well as the amount of heat supplied to the flash vessel is controlled such that the temperature of the crude product vapor stream is maintained at a temperature less than 90° F. cooler than the feed temperature of the liquid reaction mixture to the flasher and the concentration of acetic acid in the crude product vapor stream is greater than 70% by weight of the crude product vapor stream.
US08329932B2 Process for preparing organosilicon compounds containing organyloxy groups
Organosilicon compounds bearing silicon-bonded organyloxy groups are prepared by mixing and reacting silanol-functional organosilicon compounds with organosilicon compounds containing at least two organyloxy groups in a mixer with an energy input of at least 0.2 kW/Kg of mixture. At this level of energy input, reaction to form the organyloxy-functional product is rapid, and can be achieved without supplying external heat, and also without catalysts, if desired.
US08329930B2 Aluminum complex and use thereof
Provided is a process in which cyclization of a compound having, in a molecule, a formyl group and a double bond which allow carbonyl-ene cyclization, the compound existing as a mixture of optical isomers thereof, increases the ratio of a particular optical isomer not only in a cyclized compound, but also in an unreacted compound. The process comprises performing, in the presence of a specified aluminum complex represented by the general formula: [Al2(L1)n(L2)3-n]m, cyclization of a compound having, in a molecule, a formyl group and a double bond which allow carbonyl-ene cyclization, the compound existing as a mixture of optical isomers thereof, to increase the ratio of a particular optical isomer.
US08329927B2 Water-soluble and water-insoluble, ring opening metathesis polymerization products, monomers and related methods
The invention provides certain novel water-soluble and water-insoluble monomers for ring opening metathesis polymerization and novel polymers, compositions and products, and related methods thereof.
US08329925B2 Process for preparing substituted 1-O-acyl-2-deoxy-2-fluoro-4-thio-beta-D-arabinofuranoses
The present invention relates to a process for preparing 1-O-acyl-2-deoxy-2-fluoro-4-thio-β-D-arabinofuranoses having formula I and intermediates thereof: wherein R1 represents —C(O)—C1-C6-alkyl or —C(O)-aryl; and R2 represents C1-C6-alkyl, C1-C4-perfluoroalkyl or aryl.
US08329923B2 4, 4′ disubstituted 4H-cyclopentadithiophene and new methods for synthesizing the same
The present preferred embodiments relate to a method for the synthesis of a compound having the following general formula: the method comprising the step of reacting, in presence of a diprotic acid having a negative pKa, a compound having the general formula: wherein R1 and R2 are organic groups and wherein X and Y are independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, chloro, bromo, iodo, boronic acid, boronate esters, borane, pseudohalogen and organotin. It further relates to compounds so obtained and to compounds resulting from the ring closure of compound (II).
US08329922B2 Crystalline sodium atorvastatin
Crystalline sodium atorvastatin, compositions containing the same and methods for the production thereof.
US08329918B2 Selective alpha 2B/2C agonists
Described herein are compounds useful as agonists of alpha 2B/2C receptors. Pharmaceutical compositions including the presently described compounds and methods of treatment of diseases and conditions with the presently described compounds also are disclosed.
US08329917B2 Heterocyclic compound and light-emitting element, light-emitting device, lighting device, and electronic device using the same
To provide a novel heterocyclic compound having a bipolar property. To improve element characteristics of a light-emitting element by application of the novel heterocyclic compound to the light-emitting element. A heterocyclic compound represented by a general formula (G1) and a light-emitting element formed using the heterocyclic compound represented by the general formula (G1) are provided. When the heterocyclic compound represented by the general formula (G1) is used for the light-emitting element, the characteristics of the light-emitting element can be improved.
US08329915B2 Thienothiophene derivatives
An organic compound represented by the following general formula (I) and characterized by the conjugation of thieno[3,2-b]thiophene, thiophene and phenylene units in the conjugated compound.
US08329905B2 Synthesis of diethyl{[5-(3-fluorophenyl)-pyridine-2yl]methyl}phosphonate
This application discloses a novel process for the preparation of phosphonate esters useful as intermediates in the preparation of himbacine analogs, themselves useful as thrombin receptor antagonists. The chemistry taught herein can be exemplified by the following scheme: wherein R9 is selected from alkyl, aryl heteroaryl and arylalkyl groups having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, and R11 is selected independently for each occurrence from alkyl, aryl heteroaryl and arylalkyl groups having 1 to 10 carbon atoms and hydrogen, X2 is Cl, Br, or I; X3 is selected from Cl and Br; and PdLn is a supported palladium metal catalyst or a soluble heterogeneous palladium catalyst. The L-derivatizing reagent is a moiety which converts the alcohol functional group of compound 137D to any leaving group which can be displaced by a triorgano-phosphite phosphonating agent.
US08329893B2 Cellulose ester compositions having low birefringence and films made therefrom
The present invention relates to cellulose esters having low hydroxyl content for use in optical applications, such as liquid crystal display (LCD) films. Films made with low hydroxyl levels and a given ratio of non-acetyl ester to hydroxyl level have been found to have low intrinsic birefringence. Therefore, these films can be cast, molded, or otherwise oriented without an appreciable birefringence or optical distortion (i.e. retardation). Such features make these films useful in polarizer, protective, and compensator films as well as molded optical parts, such as lenses. Furthermore, it has also been found that resins of the present invention can also be made to have “+C plate” behavior either by melt or solvent based processing, a characteristic which is not typical of cellulose esters. Such +C behavior allows films to be produced having unique compensatory behavior. Other embodiments of the invention relate to methods melt casting films while minimizing birefringence formation.
US08329892B2 Methods and compositions for enhancing the efficacy and specificity of RNA silencing
The present invention provides methods of enhancing the efficacy and specificity of RNA silencing. The invention also provides compositions for mediating RNA silencing. In particular, the invention provides siRNAs, siRNA-like molecules, shRNAs, vectors and transgenes having improved specificity and efficacy in mediating silencing of a target gene. Therapeutic methods are also featured.
US08329890B2 SiRNA-mediated gene silencing
The present invention is directed to small interfering RNA molecules (siRNA) targeted against an allele of interest, and methods of using these siRNA molecules.
US08329887B2 Synthesis of tagged nucleic acids
The present invention relates generally to methods, compositions and kits for synthesizing sense RNA molecules from one or more RNA molecules of interest in a sample. In exemplary embodiments, the methods use a terminal tagging oligoribonucleotide (rTTO) to join a DNA sequence tag to the 3′-termini of first-strand cDNA molecules. The use of an rTTO comprising ribonucleotides results in decreased oligonucleotide-derived background synthesis of RNA in the absence of sample RNA and, surprisingly and unexpectedly, also results in significantly increased yields of sense RNA molecules that exhibit sequences that are substantially identical to those of the RNA molecules of interest in the sample. The sense RNA molecules also have an RNA sequence tag on their 5′-termini that is useful for fixing the lengths of sense RNA molecules that are synthesized in a second or subsequent round.
US08329882B2 Genetic control of mammalian cells with synthetic RNA regulatory systems
The present application relates to nucleic acids that encode a RNA switch responsive to a ligand that can control the expression of a gene product that affects the cell fate determination of a mammalian cell are provided. In some embodiments, the system can be used to control the proliferation or activation of mammalian cells in response to a ligand that can be provided exogenously to the mammalian cell or can be produced by the mammalian cell. The system can be used to promote the growth or proliferation of human T cells in response to an exogenous ligand applied to the cells. In one embodiment, the system detects the ligand through a RNA aptamer that modulates expression of a gene product through activation or inactivation of a ribozyme that modulates expression of the gene product.
US08329879B2 H3LMN compound used as radioactive agent for treatment of liver cancer and manufacturing method thereof
H3LMN series compounds used as radioactive agents for treatment of liver cancer and a manufacturing method thereof are revealed. 2-thioethylamine hydrochloride is reacted with triphenylmethanol for protection of thiol to obtain 2-[(triphenylmethyl)thio]ethylamine. Then obtain N-[2-((triphenylmethyl)thio)ethyl]chloroacetamide by a transamidation reaction between 2-[(triphenylmethyl)thio]ethylamine and chloroactyl chloride. Next produce a amine-amide-thiol ligand-N-[2-((triphenylmethyl)thio)ethyl][2-((triphenylmethyl)thio)ethylamino]acetamide by a substitution reaction of N-[2-((triphenylmethyl)thio)ethyl]chloroacetamide and 2-[(triphenylmethyl)thio]ethylamine. After respective reaction with 1-bromotetradecane, 1-bromohexadecane and ethyl 16-bromohexadecanoate, H3LMN series compounds are obtained. These amine-amide-dithiols quadridentate ligands can react with MO3+ (M=Tc or Re) to produce electrically neutral complexes. The complexes have high lipophilicity, allowing them soluble in lipiodol to be applied to radiation therapy for liver cancer.
US08329867B2 CTLA4-Ig immunoadhesins
The present application relates to CTLA4-Ig immunoadhesins that target CD80 and CD86, and their use, particularly for therapeutic purposes.
US08329846B2 Bisphenol-A replacement materials
Polymers may include a plurality of tetradecahydroanthracene moieties. Such polymers may be used to make food or beverage containers or medical devices. Food or beverage containers or medical devices may be coated with polymers including a plurality of tetradecahydroanthracene moieties.
US08329837B2 Cellulose-based masterbatch with networked structure, application thereof and method for preparing the same
Disclosed herein is a thermoplastic cellulosic composition for preparing a cellulose-based masterbatch and/or a cellulose-based fiber with a networked structure. In one example, the thermoplastic cellulosic composition includes an esterified cellulose present in a range of about 80 wt % to about 95 wt %, polyethylene glycol present in a range of about 4.5 wt % to about 12 wt %, a tri-functional cross-linking agent present in a range of about 0.01 wt % to about 3 wt %, an initiator present in a range of about 0.01 wt % to about 0.15 wt %, and a dispersing agent present in a range of about 0.01 wt % to about 5 wt %.
US08329833B2 Nano-linked metallocene catalyst compositions and their polymer products
The present invention provides polymerization catalyst compositions employing novel dinuclear metallocene compounds. Methods for making these new dinuclear metallocene compounds and for using such compounds in catalyst compositions for the polymerization and copolymerization of olefins are also provided.
US08329831B2 Preparation of silicone rubber elastomers
A multi part hydrosilylation curable silicone elastomer composition comprising (i) an organopolysiloxane comprising at least two unsaturated groups and having a viscosity of at least 1,000 mPas at 25° C.; (ii) inorganic filler having a hydrophilic surface; (iii) a filler treating agent comprising an organopolysiloxane comprising at least 2 hydroxy or otherwise hydrolysable groups, or a mixture thereof and having an average degree of polymerization of from 2 to 50; (iv) an organohydrogensiloxane having an average of greater than two silicon bonded hydrogen atoms per molecule having a viscosity of up to about 10 PaS at 25° C.; (v) a hydrosilylation catalyst; and/or a treated filler obtained by the reaction of (ii) and (iii) above characterized in that the filler treating agent (iii) and/or treated filler is packaged separately from organohydrogensiloxane (iv) prior to curing.
US08329830B2 Surface treatment process and treated article
A surface treatment process comprises (a) providing at least one substrate having at least one major surface; (b) combining (1) at least one curable oligomeric or polymeric polysilazane comprising at least one chemically reactive site, and (2) at least one fluorochemical compound comprising (i) at least one organofluorine or heteroorganofluorine moiety that comprises at least about six perfluorinated carbon atoms, and (ii) at least one functional group that is capable of reacting with the polysilazane through at least one of the chemically reactive sites; (c) allowing or inducing the polysilazane and the fluorochemical compound to react to form at least one curable organofluorine-modified polysilazane; (d) applying the curable organofluorine-modified polysilazane or its precursors to at least a portion of at least one major surface of the substrate; and (e) curing the curable organofluorine-modified polysilazane to form a surface treatment.
US08329822B2 Fluoropolymer emulsions
A polymer composition comprising A) a first polymer comprising (a) hydrophobized nanoparticle; (b) C1 to C18, straight, branched, or cyclic alkyl(meth)acrylate; (c) N-methylol(meth)acrylamide or a monomer of formula (I) R—(OCH2CH2)a—O—C(O)—C(R1)═CH2  (I)  wherein R is hydrogen, C1-C4 alkyl, or —C(O)—C(R1)═CH2, and R1 is H or —CH3; said first polymer in contact with B) a second polymer comprising (d) a fluorinated monomer of formula (II) Rf1-L-X—C(O)—C(R)═CH2  (II)  wherein Rf1 is a monovalent, partially or fully fluorinated, linear or branched, alkyl radical having 2 to about 100 carbon atoms; optionally interrupted by 1 to about 50 oxygen atoms; wherein the ratio of carbon atoms to oxygen atoms is at least 2:1 and no oxygen atoms are bonded to each other; L is a bond or a linear or branched divalent linking group having 1 to about 20 carbon atoms, said linking group optionally interrupted by 1 to about 4 hetero-radicals selected from the group consisting of —O—, —NR6—, —S—, —SO—, —SO2—, and —N(R6)C(O)— wherein R6 is H or C1 to C6 alkyl, and said linking group optionally substituted with CH2Cl; X is —O—, —N(R)—, or —S—, wherein R is H or CH3; (e) a monomer as described in (b) above; and (f) a monomer as described in (c) above; provided that the first polymer comprises from about 50% to about 70% by weight of the polymer composition.
US08329819B2 Organic/inorganic composite and fire-resistant plate utilizing the same
The invention discloses a fire-resistant composite comprising inorganic particles well dispersed in a polymer, oligomer or copolymer having reactive functional groups. The inorganic particles also contain reactive functional groups, originally or after surface modification, that can react with the corresponding reactive functional groups of the organic component to form organic/inorganic composite materials. When the composite material is burned or exposed to fire, the organic component forms a char layer and the inorganic particles radiate absorbed heat. The inorganic particles also strengthen the mechanical properties of the structure through the reaction between inorganic and organic materials. The invention also discloses a fire-resistant plate containing the organic/inorganic component.
US08329810B2 Elastomeric compounds containing recycled materials and silica
A recycled elastomeric composition that can include a natural rubber, a synthetic elastomeric polymer, or combinations thereof is described herein. The synthetic elastomeric polymer can include butadiene and styrene. The recycled elastomeric composition can also include a compatibilized silica with a coupling agent, a crumb rubber, a carbon black, a filler, and an extender oil. Articles comprising the recycled elastomeric composition can include: floor mats, tires, belts, rollers, footwear, wire or cable jacketing, roof edging, tubulars, and marine impact bumpers.
US08329807B2 Latex paint film resistant to adverse effects of water, and compositions and methods for making same
A colorant composition containing a hydrophobic latex polymer component to impart resistance to water-softening and -staining in a paint film made from a latex paint formulated with the colorant composition, as well as the paint and paint film, and methods for making the foregoing.
US08329793B2 Plasticized composition comprising polyvinylbutyral resin having controlled stereochemistry
Provided herein is a polyvinylbutyral (PVB) resin having a meso/racemic stereoisomer ratio of from about 2.5 to about 5.0. Further provided herein is a plasticized PVB composition comprising the PVB resin. Manipulation of the PVB stereoisomer ratio can provide an additional method of controlling the physical properties of the PVB composition, in addition to or in lieu of changing additives or otherwise manipulating the PVB composition.
US08329773B2 Holographic media and photopolymers
The invention relates to holographic media containing specific photopolymers, a process for the production thereof, and unsaturated glycidyl ether acrylate urethanes as writing monomers which are suitable for the preparation of photopolymers.
US08329772B2 UV-curable polymer thick film dielectric compositions with excellent adhesion to ITO
This invention provides a screen printable dielectric composition comprising finely divided particles of talc dispersed in a curable liquid composition containing an acrylated urethane resin oligomer, an alkyl acrylate, and phosphoric acid.
US08329770B2 Silicon-containing foams
Silicone foams having good foam structure and rapid cure are produced from foamable mixtures containing a physical blowing agent and an organically modified organopolysiloxane containing at least one urea or urethane group and an alkoxy(alkyl)siloxy unit.
US08329760B2 Pharmaceutical composition
A pharmaceutical compositions in the form of an emulsion and containing a continuous liquid phase, for example, an aqueous phase, liquid droplets dispersed in the continuous phase, a pharmaceutically active compound, a Hseih enhancer, and a hydrocolloid emulsifying agent and in which, for example, the active compound is dissolved in the aqueous phase or in the liquid droplets, and the use of such composition to treat a condition in a patient, for example, diabetes.
US08329758B2 Skin sanitizing antimicrobial alcoholic compositions
This invention relates to an antimicrobial skin sanitizing composition for disinfecting skin, and particularly, hands. The composition contains at least 60 percent of an aliphatic alcohol having from 1 to 4 carbon atoms, from about 0.1 to about 5 weight percent of a thickening agent, and an effective amount of a GRAS or amino acid neutralizer to neutralize the thickening agent.
US08329755B2 Methods for treating retroviral infections
The present invention provides compositions for treating an HIV infection comprising administering a compound according to formula I where Ar, R1-R5, R11c and X1 are as defined herein with at least one carrier, excipient or diluent.
US08329747B2 Polyunsaturated fatty acid monoglycerides, derivatives, and uses thereof
There are provided various polyunsaturated fatty acid monoglycerides and derivatives thereof. These compounds can be useful as cancer chemopreventive agents, cancer treating agent, inhibiting tumor growth or cell proliferation, reducing tumor growth or as radioenhencers for radiotherapy of cancer.
US08329745B2 Small molecule inhibitors of ghrelin O-acyltransferase
Ghrelin O-acyltransferase (GOAT) is inhibited with designed small molecules of the general formula: Methods comprise contacting the GOAT with an inhibitor and detecting a resultant inhibition.
US08329744B2 Methods of preventing the serotonin syndrome and compositions for use thereof
The present invention is directed at methods for preventing or minimizing the intensity of the serotonin syndrome in humans and lower animals which comprises administering proserotonergic agents and serotonin surge protectors. The present invention is also directed to pharmaceutical compositions comprising proserotonergic agents and serotonin surge protectors useful for carrying out the method of the present invention.
US08329740B2 Polymorphs of sunitinib malate
The present invention provides a novel crystalline form of sunitinib malate, process for its preparation and to pharmaceutical composition containing it. The present invention also provides a process for preparation of sunitinib malate crystal form I. Thus, for example, sunitinib malate was added to water, the mixture was heated to 80 deg C. to obtain a clear solution and stirred for 30 minutes at 80 deg C., slowly cooled to room temperature and the solution was subjected to freeze drying at about −90 deg C. for 8 hours to give sunitinib malate crystalline form III.
US08329734B2 Topical therapy for migraine
The invention is directed to formulations and methods of treating a migraine and/or cluster headache with a serotonin agonist, pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, or derivative thereof.
US08329731B2 PTEN inhibitor or Maxi-K channels opener
A new PTEN opener or a new opener of a large conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channel (Maxi-K channel) which comprises as an active ingredient a tetrazolylalkoxy-dihydrocarbostyril compound of the formula (I): wherein R is cycloalkyl, A is lower alkylene, and the bond between 3- and 4-positions of the carbostyril nucleus is single bond or double bond, or a salt thereof, which is useful as a medicament for promotion of the survival of normal cells, brain cells, heart cells, and skin, and further for inhibiting of Gram negative sepsis and cell migration and cell invasion due to inhibition of PTEN and is further useful as a medicament for the treatment of neuronal disorders, for example, an anticonvulsant, a neuroprotecting agent, a medicament for treatment of regional cerebral edema and neurologic motor impairment, cognitive disorders, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, migraine, and Alzheimer's disease, etc.
US08329721B2 Hydroxy and alkoxy substituted 1H-imidazonaphthyridines and methods
1H-Imidazo[4,5-c]naphthyridin-4-amines with a hydroxy, alkoxy, hydroxyalkoxy, or alkoxyalkoxy substituent at the 2-position, pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds, methods of making the compounds, intermediates, and methods of use of these compounds as immunomodulators, for inducing cytokine biosynthesis in animals and in the treatment of diseases including viral and neoplastic diseases, are disclosed.
US08329714B2 Farnesyl transferase inhibiting 1,2-annelated quinoline enantiomer
(−)-5-(3-Chlorophenyl)-α-(4-chlorophenyl)-α-(1-methyl-1H-imidazol-5-yl)tetrazolo-[1,5-a]quinazoline-7-methanamine and its pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salts, and the use of such compounds in medicine especially for the treatment of cancer.
US08329711B2 Pyridone-substituted-dihydropyrazolopyrimidinone derivative
The invention relates to compounds of general formula (I-0): wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7a, R8a, X, and Y are as defined herein. Compounds of the invention have, based on excellent Wee1 kinase-inhibitory effect, a cell growth-inhibitory effect and an additive/synergistic effect with any other anticancer agent, and are therefore useful in the field of medicine.
US08329707B2 Substituted pyrazine compounds
Phenylacetamide compounds of the formula having sulfonyl group and cycloalkyl group on the phenyl group and having heteroaryl group on the nitrogen atom in the amide have an excellent glucokinase activation action.
US08329703B2 Pyrazole compounds
Aryl substituted pyrazole derivatives are provided, as well as processes for their preparation. The invention also provides compositions and methods for the treatment of HCV by administering a compound of the present invention, alone or in combination with additional antiviral agents, in a therapeutically effective amount.
US08329680B2 Formulation
The invention relates to a novel sustained release pharmaceutical formulation adapted for administration by injection containing the compound 7α-[9-(4,4,5,5,5-pentafluoropentylsulphinyl)nonyl]oestra-1,3,5(10)-triene-3,17β-diol, more particularly to a formulation adapted for administration by injection containing the compound 7α-[9-(4,4,5,5,5-pentafluoropentylsulphinyl)nonyl]oestra-1,3,5(10)-triene-3,17β-diol in solution in a ricinoleate vehicle which additionally comprises at least one alcohol and a non-aqueous ester solvent which is miscible in the ricinoleate vehicle.
US08329678B1 Antiinflammatory compound
Azadirachta indica cell suspension culture was used for the biotransformation of dianabol to yield a metabolite 17β-hydroxy-17α-methyl-5α-androstan-3-one, which can also be synthesized, as a potent antiinflammatory agent.
US08329673B2 Alkylated semi synthetic glycosaminoglycosan ethers, and methods for making and using thereof
Described herein are alkylated and semi-synthetic glycosaminoglycosan ethers, referred to herein as “SAGEs.” The synthesis of sulfated and alkylated SAGEs is also described. The compounds described herein are useful in a number of applications including use for ocular or ophthalmic treatment.
US08329657B2 Fn14/TRAIL fusion proteins and method of treating cancer
Fusion proteins which act on the TWEAK and TRAIL signaling axes are provided. The proteins are useful in the treatment or amelioration of autoimmune diseases, particularly multiple sclerosis, as well as other diseases such as alloimmune diseases and cancer.
US08329652B2 Neuritogenic peptides
The present invention relates to peptide compounds that are capable of stimulating neuronal differentiation, neurite outgrowth and survival of neural cells, and enhancing synaptic plasticity, learning and memory, methods of treating diseases and conditions of nervous system by administration of compositions comprising said compounds. The compounds and compositions of the invention include peptide sequences that are derived from the sequence of human erythropoietin or proteins that are homologous of human erythropoietin.
US08329647B2 Method of treating a subject according to biomarkers for insulin resistance
The invention provides compositions and methods for determining insulin resistance and/or pancreatic β-cell dysfunction in a subject. The invention also provides compositions and methods for treating a subject according to the insulin resistance and/or pancreatic β-cell dysfunction in the subject.
US08329646B2 Methods for the treatment of muscle loss
The invention provides methods for treating muscle loss in an individual. In one embodiment, the invention includes administering to an individual an effective amount of a branched chain amino acid (BCAA), a BCAA precursor, a BCAA metabolite, a BCAA-rich protein, a protein manipulated to enrich the BCAA content or any combination thereof. The invention further provides nutritional products for such administration, including orally-administrable nutritional products.
US08329645B2 Polymyxin derivatives and uses thereof
The present invention relates to a polymyxin derivative wherein R1, R2 and R3 are optional and R1, R2, R3, R5, R8 and R9 are cationic or neutral amino acid residues selected so that the total number of positive charges at physiological pH is at least two but no more than three; and to a combination product comprising at least two such derivatives. The invention further relates to a method for treating, alleviating or ameliorating an infection in a subject, caused by a Gram-negative bacterium by administering a therapeutically effective amount of a derivative according to the present invention to said subject; to a method for sensitizing Gram-negative bacteria to an antibacterial agent by administering, simultaneously or sequentially in any order a therapeutically effective amount of said antibacterial agent and a derivative according to the present invention to said subject; to methods for developing novel antibiotics; for reducing the nephrotoxicity, for improving the pharmacokinetic properties of natural polymyxins and octapeptins; and for sensitizing clinically important bacteria to a host defense mechanism complement present in serum. Finally, the invention relates to a process for preparing such polymyxin derivatives.
US08329642B1 Formula and method to enhance external physiognomy
The present invention is directed to nutritional compositions for systemic ingestion that improve the overall appearance, or physiognomy, of a person, and to methods of use of such compositions. In one aspect of the present invention, the nutritional composition comprises highly available nutritional oils and peptides/proteins that are known to enhance hair, skin, and nails. In another aspect of the present invention, the nutritional composition comprises a powder that is dispersible in a liquid dispersion or emulsion. In another aspect of the present invention, the nutritional composition is a liquid dispersion or emulsion. In another aspect of the present invention, the method of use of the nutrient composition comprises dispersing a dose of 20 grams of the composition in the form of a powder into a liquid of choice, followed by stirring and swallowing of the liquid.
US08329639B2 MUC1 based glycolipopeptide vaccine with adjuvant
Provided herein are liposomal glycolipopeptidic vaccine formulations comprising an adjuvant and an immunogen for immunotherapy and/or treatment of cancer.
US08329637B2 Method for the treatment of automimmune diseases comprising administering rapamycin and IL-10
The invention discloses a combined preparation containing IL-10 and rapamycin, able to induce immunosuppression and antigen-specific immune tolerance, and the use thereof in the treatment of diseases involving an excessive, dysfunctional or uncontrolled immune responses mediated by T cells.
US08329633B2 Poly quaternary functionalized alkyl polyglucosides for enhanced food soil removal
A cleaning composition including a poly quaternary functionalized alkyl polyglucoside, a water conditioning agent, an acid source, a solvent, and water. In one embodiment, the cleaning composition is substantially free of alkyl phenol ethoxylates. The cleaning composition is capable of removing soils including up to 20% proteins. The cleaning compositions include a biorenewable, environmentally friendly alternative to nonyl phenol ethoxylates and exhibit superior cleaning of food soils.
US08329630B2 Ready to use thickened degreaser and associated methods
Cleaner compositions, methods of making cleaners, and methods of use are disclosed. Disclosed is a method of formulating a ready-to-use degreaser composition that has extended to infinite cling time. The method of making the cleaner results in thickened compositions that are capable of removing from vertical and inverted surfaces fresh, greasy and baked-on soils encountered in the food industry. The compositions include one or more alkalinity sources, one or more chelants, one or more surfactants, one or more thickening agents, one or more solvents, one or more buffers, and as a remainder, water. Compositions prepared according to the method of the invention are substantially free of phosphorous and have a low caustic content making them user friendly, having a lower pH than commercially available cleaners. Yet the cleaners prepared according to the method of the invention are surprisingly effective at removing tenacious baked-on soils encountered in the food service industry.
US08329627B2 Low-irritating, clear cleansing compositions with relatively low pH
The methods and compositions of this invention relate to compositions having low irritation characteristics in combination with one or more additional characteristics, for example, relatively high clarity, relatively high foaming, and/or combinations thereof, as well as methods of making and using such compositions. These compositions contain blends of amphoteric surfactants, have low pH values and are useful in cleansing the skin.
US08329626B2 Low-irritating, clear cleansing compositions with relatively low pH
The methods and compositions of this invention relate to compositions having low irritation characteristics in combination with one or more additional characteristics, for example, relatively high clarity, relatively high foaming, and/or combinations thereof, as well as methods of making and using such compositions. These compositions have low pH values and are useful in cleansing the skin.
US08329621B2 Degradable particulates and associated methods
Methods that include a method comprising: providing a degradable polymer, a viscosifier, and one solvent; combining the degradable polymer and the solvent to form a degradable polymer composition; allowing the degradable polymer to at least partially plasticize; and applying sufficient shear to the degradable polymer composition so that degradable particulates begin to form. Additional methods are also provided.
US08329615B2 Image formation method using thermal transfer sheet and thermal transfer image-receiving sheet
A method of image formation comprising putting a thermal transfer sheet and a thermal transfer image-receiving sheet one upon another wherein the thermal transfer sheet has on a substrate film a subbing layer of a titanium oxide film, the dye layer on a part of the subbing layer and a transferable protective layer laminate on the other part of the subbing layer than the part for the dye layer thereon, and wherein the thermal transfer image-receiving sheet has on a support the receiving layer containing a polymer latex, in which vinyl chloride is polymerized in at least 95 mol % of all the polymerization monomers, and a polyether-modified silicone, and a heat-insulating layer; recording an image on the receiving layer by a heating device; and transferring at least a part of the transferable protective layer laminate onto the receiving layer by the heating device.
US08329614B2 Mercury adsorbents compatible as cement additives
Solid adsorbents, following their use for mercury removal from flue gas, that do not interfere with the ability of air-entraining additives (such as surfactants) to form stable bubbles when added to fly ash containing the adsorbents. The interference is overcome by heating the materials used in the manufacture of the adsorbent so that magnesium hydroxide and/or one or more alkali compounds containing one or more silicate, aluminate, and/or phosphate moiety, added or already present in the materials, binds multivalent cations present in the materials that could otherwise interfere with the surfactant activity.
US08329611B2 Titania-containing extrudate
An extrudate comprising titania, a carboxyalkyl cellulose, and a hydroxyalkyl cellulose is disclosed. The extrudates have a smooth outer surface when they exit the extruder. The extrusion processibility is improved.
US08329605B2 Sintered product with a cubic structure
The invention relates to a sintered product containing: in mass percent based on oxides, more than 99.5% of a material having a cubic crystallographic structure for more than 95% of the mass thereof, known as a material with a cubic structure, and having a refractive index of less than 2.75 in the wavelength range between 0.2 μm and 5 μm; and more than 50 ppma of dopants which must contain titanium oxide TiO2 and at least one additional dopant selected from ZrO2, CaO, and MgO, in which said at least one additional dopant is different from the oxide(s) forming the material with a cubic structure, but can be MgO when the material with a cubic structure is spinel MgAl2O4.
US08329604B2 Silica glass containing TiO2 and process for its production
A silica glass containing TiO2, which has a fictive temperature of at most 1,200° C., a F concentration of at least 100 ppm and a coefficient of thermal expansion of 0±200 ppb/° C. from 0 to 100° C.A process for producing a silica glass containing TiO2, which comprises a step of forming a porous glass body on a target quartz glass particles obtained by flame hydrolysis of glass-forming materials, a step of obtaining a fluorine-containing porous glass body, a step of obtaining a fluorine-containing vitrified glass body, a step of obtaining a fluorine-containing formed glass body and a step of carrying out annealing treatment.
US08329599B2 Method of depositing dielectric film by ALD using precursor containing silicon, hydrocarbon, and halogen
A method of forming a dielectric film having at least Si—N, Si—C, or Si—B bonds on a semiconductor substrate by atomic layer deposition (ALD), includes: adsorbing a precursor on a surface of a substrate; supplying a reactant gas over the surface; reacting the precursor and the reactant gas on the surface; and repeating the above steps to form a dielectric film having at least Si—N, Si—C, or Si—B bonds on the substrate. The precursor has at least one Si—C or Si—N bond, at least one hydrocarbon, and at least one halogen attached to silicon in its molecule.
US08329597B2 Semiconductor process having dielectric layer including metal oxide and MOS transistor process
A semiconductor process having a dielectric layer including metal oxide is provided. The semiconductor process includes: A substrate is provided. A dielectric layer including metal oxide is formed on the substrate, wherein the dielectric layer has a plurality of oxygen-related vacancies. A first oxygen-importing process is performed to fill the oxygen-related vacancies with oxygen. Otherwise, three MOS transistor processes are also provided, each of which has a gate dielectric layer including a high dielectric constant, and a first oxygen-importing process is performed to fill the oxygen-related vacancies with oxygen.
US08329578B2 Via structure and via etching process of forming the same
A via etching process forms a through-substrate via having a round corner and a tapered sidewall profile. A method includes providing a semiconductor substrate; forming a hard mask layer and a patterned photoresist layer on the semiconductor substrate; forming an opening in the hard mask and exposing a portion of the semiconductor substrate; forming a via passing through at least a part of the of semiconductor substrate using the patterned photoresist layer and hard mask layer as a masking element; performing a trimming process to round the top corner of the via; and removing the photoresist layer.
US08329573B2 Wafer level integration module having controlled resistivity interconnects
A wafer level integration module and method for fabricating are disclosed according to a construction whereby semiconductor functional device fabrication is carried out only after interconnect structures are processed on a bare wafer. The fabrication and processing include forming interconnect structures in a first side of a wafer. An insulation layer is deposited on the first side of the wafer. A conductive layer is deposited on the insulation layer so as to fill the interconnect structures and contact the insulation layer on the walls thereof. The conductive layer on the interconnect structures forms interconnection contacts on the first side of the wafer and interconnection vias extending into the wafer. The conductive layer including the interconnection contacts is exposed on the first side of the wafer. A semiconductor functional device is fabricated on the first side of the wafer and interconnected with the interconnection contacts during the fabricating. Portions of the first conductive layer associated with the interconnection vias are exposed from the second side of the wafer. A portion of the first conductive layer can be selectively removed to form interconnection via redistribution connection structures that can be filled with a low resistivity material to form low resistivity redistribution interconnect with the semiconductor functional device through the first conductive layer.
US08329566B2 Method of manufacturing a high-performance semiconductor device
The present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a semiconductor device, wherein the method comprises: providing a substrate; forming a source region, a drain region, a dummy gate structure, and a gate dielectric layer on the substrate, wherein the dummy gate structure is between the source region and the drain region on the substrate, and the gate dielectric layer is between the substrate and the dummy gate structure; annealing the source region and the drain region; removing the dummy gate structure to form an opening; implanting dopants into the substrate from the opening to form a steep retrograded well; annealing to activate the dopants; and forming a metal gate on the gate dielectric layer by deposition.
US08329565B2 Methods for improving the quality of structures comprising semiconductor materials
Methods which can be applied during the epitaxial growth of semiconductor structures and layers of III-nitride materials so that the qualities of successive layers are successively improved. An intermediate epitaxial layer is grown on an initial surface so that growth pits form at surface dislocations present in the initial surface. A following layer is then grown on the intermediate layer according to the known phenomena of epitaxial lateral overgrowth so it extends laterally and encloses at least the agglomerations of intersecting growth pits. Preferably, prior to growing the following layer, a discontinuous film of a dielectric material is deposited so that the dielectric material deposits discontinuously so as to reduce the number of dislocations in the laterally growing material. The methods of the invention can be performed multiple times to the same structure. Also, semiconductor structures fabricated by these methods.
US08329564B2 Method for fabricating super-steep retrograde well MOSFET on SOI or bulk silicon substrate, and device fabricated in accordance with the method
A method is provided to fabricate a semiconductor device, where the method includes providing a substrate comprised of crystalline silicon; implanting a ground plane in the crystalline silicon so as to be adjacent to a surface of the substrate, the ground plane being implanted to exhibit a desired super-steep retrograde well (SSRW) implant doping profile; annealing implant damage using a substantially diffusionless thermal annealing to maintain the desired super-steep retrograde well implant doping profile in the crystalline silicon and, prior to performing a shallow trench isolation process, depositing a silicon cap layer over the surface of the substrate. The substrate may be a bulk Si substrate or a Si-on-insulator substrate. The method accommodates the use of an oxynitride gate stack structure or a high dielectric constant oxide/metal (high-K/metal) gate stack structure. The various thermal processes used during fabrication are selected/controlled so as to maintain the desired super-steep retrograde well implant doping profile in the crystalline silicon.
US08329551B2 Semiconductor device substrate with embedded stress region, and related fabrication methods
A semiconductor device substrate is presented here. The semiconductor device substrate includes a layer of first semiconductor material having a first lattice constant, a region of second semiconductor material located in the layer of first semiconductor material, and a layer of epitaxially grown third semiconductor material overlying the layer of first semiconductor material and overlying the region of second semiconductor material. The second semiconductor material has a second lattice constant that is different than the first lattice constant. Moreover, the layer of epitaxially grown third semiconductor material exhibits a stressed zone overlying the region of second semiconductor material. The stressed zone has a third lattice constant that is different than the first lattice constant.
US08329546B2 Modified profile gate structure for semiconductor device and methods of forming thereof
A method of fabricating a semiconductor device is illustrated. A modified profile opening is formed on a substrate. The modified profile opening includes a first width proximate a surface of the substrate and a second width opposing the substrate. The second width is greater than the first width. A metal gate electrode is formed by filling the modified profile opening with a conductive material. A semiconductor device is also described, the device having a metal gate structure with a first width and a second, differing, width.
US08329543B2 Method for forming a semiconductor device having nanocrystals
A method is provided for forming a semiconductor device having nanocrystals. The method includes: providing a substrate; forming a first insulating layer over a surface of the substrate; forming a first plurality of nanocrystals on the first insulating layer; forming a second insulating layer over the first plurality of nanocrystals; implanting a first material into the second insulating layer; and annealing the first material to form a second plurality of nanocrystals in the second insulating layer. The method may be used to provide a charge storage layer for a non-volatile memory having a greater nanocrystal density.
US08329541B2 InP-based transistor fabrication
Methods of forming structures that include InP-based materials, such as a transistor operating as an inversion-type, enhancement-mode device. A dielectric layer may be deposited by ALD over a semiconductor layer including In and P. A channel layer may be formed above a buffer layer having a lattice constant similar to a lattice constant of InP, the buffer layer being formed over a substrate having a lattice constant different from a lattice constant of InP.
US08329534B2 Method of forming contacts for a memory device
The present invention is generally directed to a method of forming contacts for a memory device. In one illustrative embodiment, the method includes forming a layer of insulating material above an active area of a dual bit memory cell, forming a hard mask layer above the layer of insulating material, the hard mask layer having an original thickness, performing at least two partial etching processes on the hard mask layer to thereby define a patterned hard mask layer above the layer of insulating material, wherein each of the partial etching processes is designed to etch through less than the original thickness of the hard mask layer, the hard mask layer having openings formed therein that correspond to a digitline contact and a plurality of storage node contacts for the dual bit memory cell, and performing at least one etching process to form openings in the layer of insulating material for the digitline contact and the plurality of storage node contacts using the patterned hard mask layer as an etch mask.
US08329530B1 Method and system for providing contact to a first polysilicon layer in a flash memory device
A method and system for providing at least one contact in a flash memory device is disclosed. The flash memory device includes a plurality of gate stacks and at lease one component including a polysilicon layer as a top surface. The method and system further include forming a silicide on the top surface of the polysilicon layer and providing an insulating layer covering the plurality of gate stacks, the at least one component and the silicide. The method and system also include etching the insulating layer to provide at least one contact hole. The insulating layer etching step uses the silicide as an etch stop layer to ensure that the insulating etching step does not etch through the polysilicon layer. The method and system also include filling the at least one contact hole with a conductor.
US08329527B2 Methods of fomring array of nanoscopic MOSFET transistors
A nanoscopic transistor is made by forming an oxide layer on a semiconductor substrate, applying resist, patterning the resist using imprint lithography to form a pattern aligned along a first direction, applying a first ion-masking material over the pattern, selectively lifting it off to leave a first ion mask to form a gate, forming doped regions by implanting a suitable dopant, applying another layer of resist and patterning the second resist layer using imprint lithography to form a second pattern aligned along a second direction, applying a second ion-masking material over the second pattern, selectively lifting it off to leave a second ion mask defined by the second pattern, and forming second doped regions in the substrate by implanting a suitable second dopant selectively in accordance with the second ion mask. The method may be used to make an array of nanoscopic transistors.
US08329525B2 Method for fabricating at least three metal-oxide semiconductor transistors having different threshold voltages
At least three metal-oxide semiconductor transistors with different threshold voltages are formed in and above corresponding first, second and third parts of a semiconductor substrate. The second transistor has a lower threshold voltage than the second transistor, and the third transistor has a lower threshold voltage than the second transistor. The gate oxide layers for the three transistors are formed as follows: a first oxide layer having a first thickness is formed above the first, second and third parts. The first oxide layer above the second part is etched and a second oxide layer having a second thickness smaller than the first thickness is formed. The first oxide layer above the third part is etched and a third oxide layer having a third thickness smaller than the second thickness is formed. The second and the third oxide layers are then nitrided to form first and second oxy-nitride layers.
US08329520B2 Method for manufacturing semiconductor device using a laser annealing process
An island-shaped single crystal semiconductor layer whose top surface has a plane within ±10° from a {211} plane is formed on an insulating surface; a non-single-crystal semiconductor layer is formed in contact with the top surface and a side surface of the single crystal semiconductor layer and on the insulating surface; the non-single-crystal semiconductor layer is irradiated with laser light to melt the non-single-crystal semiconductor layer, and to crystallize the non-single-crystal semiconductor layer formed on the insulating surface with use of the single crystal semiconductor layer as a seed crystal, so that a crystalline semiconductor layer is formed. A semiconductor device having an n-channel transistor and a p-channel transistor formed with use of the crystalline semiconductor layer is provided.
US08329514B2 Methods for forming antifuses with curved breakdown regions
Methods are disclosed for forming an antifuse that includes first and second conductive regions having spaced-apart curved portions, with a first dielectric region therebetween, forming in combination with the curved portions a curved breakdown region adapted to switch from a substantially non-conductive initial state to a substantially conductive final state in response to a predetermined programming voltage. A sense voltage less than the programming voltage is used to determine the state of the antifuse as either OFF (high impedance) or ON (low impedance). A shallow trench isolation (STI) region is desirably provided adjacent the breakdown region to inhibit heat loss from the breakdown region during programming. Lower programming voltages and currents are observed compared to antifuses using substantially planar dielectric regions. In a further embodiment, a resistive region is inserted in one lead of the antifuse with either planar or curved breakdown regions to improve post-programming sense reliability.
US08329512B2 Patterning method for high density pillar structures
A method of making a device includes forming a first photoresist layer over a sacrificial layer, patterning the first photoresist layer to form first photoresist features, rendering the first photoresist features insoluble to a solvent, forming a second photoresist layer over the first photoresist features, patterning the second photoresist layer to form second photoresist features, forming a spacer layer over the first and second photoresist features, etching the spacer layer to form spacer features and to expose the first and second photoresist features, forming third photoresist features between the spacer features, removing the spacer features, and patterning the sacrificial layer using the first, second and third photoresist features as a mask to form sacrificial features.
US08329511B2 Nitride crystal with removable surface layer and methods of manufacture
A nitride crystal or wafer with a removable surface layer comprises a high quality nitride base crystal, a release layer, and a high quality epitaxial layer. The release layer has a large optical absorption coefficient at wavelengths where the base crystal is substantially transparent and may be etched under conditions where the nitride base crystal and the high quality epitaxial layer are not. The high quality epitaxial layer may be removed from the nitride base crystal by laser liftoff or by chemical etching after deposition of at least one epitaxial device layer. The nitride crystal with a removable surface layer is useful as a substrate for a light emitting diode, a laser diode, a transistor, a photodetector, a solar cell, or for photoelectrochemical water splitting for hydrogen generation.
US08329505B2 Method for deposition of cathodes for polymer optoelectronic devices
Embodiments of the invention explore solution-based deposition of a cathode for an OLED structure. A typical embodiment of the invention may include a method performed according to the following steps: Glass substrates including deposited Indium Tin-Oxide (ITO) are prepared. The substrates are subjected to ultrasonic cleaning with deionized water and organic solvents. Features are etched into the ITO using high concentration HCl solution. A hole injecting layer is deposited by spin coater. The layer is annealed on a hot plate, then a polyphenylene vinylene (PPV) polymer is deposited by spin coater and annealed on a hot plate. Low work function cathode metal is then deposited in an electroless solution and annealed on a hot plate. The device is encapsulated.
US08329502B2 Conformal coating of highly structured surfaces
Method of applying a conformal coating to a highly structured substrate and devices made by the disclosed methods are disclosed. An example method includes the deposition of a substantially contiguous layer of a material upon a highly structured surface within a deposition process chamber. The highly structured surface may be associated with a substrate or another layer deposited on a substrate. The method includes depositing a material having an amorphous structure on the highly structured surface at a deposition pressure of equal to or less than about 3 mTorr. The method may also include removing a portion of the amorphous material deposited on selected surfaces and depositing additional amorphous material on the highly structured surface.
US08329501B1 High-throughput printing of semiconductor precursor layer from inter-metallic microflake particles
Methods and devices are provided for high-throughput printing of semiconductor precursor layer from microflake particles. In one embodiment, the method comprises of transforming non-planar or planar precursor materials in an appropriate vehicle under the appropriate conditions to create dispersions of planar particles with stoichiometric ratios of elements equal to that of the feedstock or precursor materials, even after settling. In particular, planar particles disperse more easily, form much denser coatings (or form coatings with more interparticle contact area), and anneal into fused, dense films at a lower temperature and/or time than their counterparts made from spherical nanoparticles. These planar particles may be microflakes that have a high aspect ratio. The resulting dense film formed from microflakes is particularly useful in forming photovoltaic devices. In one embodiment, at least one set of the particles in the ink may be inter-metallic flake particles (microflake or nanoflake) containing at least one group IB-IIIA inter-metallic alloy phase.
US08329496B2 Dithered scanned laser beam for scribing solar cell structures
Provided herein are methods of scribing a solar cell structure to create isolated solar cells. The methods involve scanning and high frequency dithering of a laser beam across a solar cell structure such that the beam creates a stepped scribed line profile. In certain embodiments, a structure including an absorber layer sandwich between two contact layers is provided. The scanned dithered laser beam ablates all of these layers on one part of the scribe line while the back contact layer on another part of the scribe line, leaving an exposed back contact layer. The scribe electrically isolates solar cell structures on either side of the scribe line from each other, while providing a contact point to the back contact layer of one of solar cell structure for subsequent cell-cell interconnection.
US08329495B2 Method of forming photovoltaic modules
A method of forming a PV module includes forming conductors on a top surface of a PV coated substrate; forming insulators on the top surface of the PV coated substrate; and cutting the PV coated substrate to form a plurality of individual PV cells. The PV coated substrate is cut so that each of the PV cells has some of the conductors and an insulator on its top surface. Multiple PV cells are then joined to form a PV module by attaching an edge of a first one of the PV cells under an edge of a second one of the PV cells so that at least a portion of the conductors on the first PV cell electrically contacts a bottom surface of the second PV cell.
US08329494B2 Method for manufacturing solar cell
A method for manufacturing a solar cell including a substrate, a first electrode layer, a semiconductor layer, and a second electrode layer, includes forming a first sacrificial layer on a portion of a surface of the substrate; forming the first electrode layer on the substrate and on the first sacrificial layer; and dividing the first electrode layer by removing the first sacrificial layer and a portion of the first electrode layer formed on the first sacrificial layer.
US08329493B2 Stretchable circuit configuration
A stretchable electronic circuit that includes a stretchable base substrate having a plurality of stretchable conductors formed onto a surface thereof, with both the stretchable base substrate and conductors being bendable together about two orthogonal axes. The stretchable circuit also includes a stretchable sensor layer attached to the base substrate with a cavity formed therein which has a contact point exposing one of the plurality of stretchable conductors. The stretchable electronic circuit further includes a surface mount device (SMD) package with a conductor contact protrusion installed into the cavity, and wherein a substantially constant electrical connection is established between the conductor contact protrusion and the stretchable conductor at the contact point by tensile forces interacting between the stretchable base substrate and the stretchable sensor layer.
US08329490B2 Method of producing a solid-state image pickup apparatus, solid-state image pickup apparatus, and electronic apparatus
A method of producing a solid-state image pickup apparatus, including the steps of: forming a plurality of light-receiving portions on a substrate; forming a plurality of transfer gates to be connected to the plurality of light-receiving portions formed on the substrate; forming an insulation film on the substrate; exposing a base by etching the insulation film so that the etched part of the insulation film between the adjacent transfer gates tapers away; and injecting an impurity into the exposed part using the insulation film that has remained after the etching as a mask to thus form an impurity injection portion.
US08329486B2 Thin film transistor array panel and method for manufacturing the same
The present disclosure relates to a thin film transistor array panel and a manufacturing method thereof. The method comprises: forming a thin film transistor on a substrate; forming a color filter adjacent to the thin film transistor and over the same substrate; depositing a first passivation layer on the color filter; coating a photosensitive film on the first passivation layer and exposing the photosensitive film to light using a first photomask to form a first photosensitive film pattern that comprises a first portion and a second portion that is thicker than the first portion, the first photosensitive film pattern exposing the first passivation layer around a circumference of the second portion; removing the exposed first passivation layer using the first photosensitive film pattern as an etch mask; blanket etching a whole surface of the first photosensitive film pattern until the first portion is removed to form a second photosensitive film pattern; depositing a conductive layer on the second photosensitive film pattern; and removing the second photosensitive film pattern to thereby selectively lift off portions of the conductive layer where a left behind portion forms a pixel electrode.
US08329484B2 Phosphor with Ce3+/Ce3+, Li+ doped luminescent materials
The present disclosure provides an illuminating system including a light emitting device and a luminescent material disposed approximate the light-emitting device. The luminescent material includes a strontium silicon nitride (SrSi6N8) doped by one of cerium (Ce3+) and cerium (Ce3+) and lithium (Li+).
US08329479B2 Information managing method, information managing apparatus and substrate processing system
An information managing method for managing information, based upon an electronic message containing apparatus information or event information transmitted from a substrate processing apparatus, comprises: storing the apparatus information of the substrate processing apparatus at the transmission time of the electronic message containing the apparatus information in a first apparatus information storage unit; when the electronic message containing the event information is transmitted, comparing conditions for accumulating the event information and the apparatus information; and when the conditions coincide with each other, storing the apparatus information in a second apparatus information storage unit in association with time when the event information has been generated.
US08329471B2 Isolated population of plant single cells and method of preparing same
This invention is a method of minimizing the variation of cell growth and production through homogeneous cell line development. To be more specific, it is the method of isolating and proliferating single cell clone from cambium or procambium to promote the stability of the plant-derived biologically active substances production by solving the problems of decrease in cell growth and the productivity during the long term culture.
US08329470B2 Labels, containers, system and method for providing reagents
The invention relates to systems and methods for marketing and using products such as liquid materials, especially liquid reagents for use in microbiological and cellular biological laboratory settings include the use of unique color and simple numeric or alphanumeric identifiers to quickly and easily identify any product from a catalog list of products. Methods of marketing, advertising and producing such products are also disclosed. Particular embodiments include products, product packaging and product labeling. The invention also relates to collars and sleeves for containers, as well as related methods of use.
US08329469B2 Swellable (meth)acrylate surfaces for culturing cells in chemically defined media
Synthetic surfaces capable of supporting culture of undifferentiated human embryonic stem cells in a chemically defined medium include a swellable (meth)acrylate layer and a peptide conjugated to the swellable (meth)acrylate layer. The swellable (meth)acrylate layer may be formed by polymerizing monomers in a composition that includes hydroxyethyl methacrylate, 2-carboxyehylacrylate, and tetra(ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate. The conjugated peptide may include an amino acid sequence of XaanProGlnValThrArgGlyAspValPheThrMetPro, where n is an integer from 0 to 3 and where Xaa is any amino acid. Further, disclosed herein is a swellable (meth)acrylate synthetic surface which can be sterilized by gamma irradiation.
US08329463B2 RNA interference mediating small RNA molecules
Double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) induces sequence-specific post-transcriptional gene silencing in many organisms by a process known as RNA interference (RNAi). Using a Drosophila in vitro system, we demonstrate that 19-23 nt short RNA fragments are the sequence-specific mediators of RNAi. The short interfering RNAs (siRNAs) are generated by an RNase III-like processing reaction from long dsRNA. Chemically synthesized siRNA duplexes with overhanging 3′ ends mediate efficient target RNA cleavage in the lysate, and the cleavage site is located near the center of the region spanned by the guiding siRNA. Furthermore, we provide evidence that the direction of dsRNA processing determines whether sense or antisense target RNA can be cleaved by the produced siRNP complex.
US08329457B2 Bioartificial liver system using bioreactor packed with gel beads
The present invention discloses a bioartificial liver system comprising a fixed-bed bioreactor packed with gel beads containing hepatocytes of an animal, a plasma reservoir, a plasma separator, and an efflux chamber, wherein the plasma reservoir is located at a position higher than the bioreactor, a ventilation filter in contact with atmosphere is provided at the top of the plasma reservoir, and the top of the plasma reservoir is directly connected to the efflux chamber via a connecting line. The inventive system satisfactorily performs the essential liver functions without the problems of gel bead damage or channeling.
US08329444B2 Strains of zymomonas mobilis for fermentation of biomass
The present invention relates to methods of obtaining Z. mobilis mutant strains that are more tolerant to one or more inhibitors or more capable of efficiently fermenting one or more carbohydrates. Such inhibitors include ethanol, aliphatic acids, such as acetic acid, formic acid; furan derivatives, such as 2-furaldehyde, 2-furoic acid; and phenolic compounds, such as vanillin and hydroxybenzoic acid. Such carbohydrates may include xylose, arabinose, mannose and mixtures thereof. These mutant strains may be employed to, for example, effectively and efficiently prepare ethanol from biomass.
US08329443B2 Antibody composition-producing cell
The present invention relates to a cell for the production of an antibody molecule such as an antibody useful for various diseases having high antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxic activity, a fragment of the antibody and a fusion protein having the Fc region of the antibody or the like, a method for producing an antibody composition using the cell, the antibody composition and use thereof.
US08329434B2 Enhanced promoter and method for producing L-lysine using the same
The present invention provides a nucleic acid molecule having enhanced promoter activity, which is operably linked to a gene encoding aspartate aminotransferase and derived from Corynebacterium glutamicum, a vector comprising the nucleic acid molecule, a transformant transformed with the vector, and a method for producing L-lysine using the transformant.
US08329432B2 Method and composition for crystallizing G protein-coupled receptors
Certain embodiments provide a method for crystallizing a GPCR. The method may employ a fusion protein comprising: a) a first portion of a G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR), where the first portion comprises the TM1, TM2, TM3, TM4 and TM5 regions of the GPCR; b) a stable, folded protein insertion; and c) a second portion of the GPCR, where the second portion comprises the TM6 and TM7 regions of the GPCR.
US08329431B2 Nucleic acid molecules encoding neutralising antibodies having specificity for human IL-17
The invention relates to an antibody molecule having specificity for antigenic determinants of IL-17, therapeutic uses of the antibody molecule and methods for producing said antibody molecule.
US08329426B2 High throughput method for measuring total fermentables in small amount of plant part
According to the invention, there is provided a high throughput method for measuring total fermentables using a small amount of plant tissue. A high throughput screening tool for gene discovery aiming for increasing total fermentables is further provided.
US08329425B2 Method and system for detection of chloramphenicol
Fast and simple method of detecting the presence of chloramphenicol, a harmful compound if present in food products. The method makes use of a mutant chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) and a fluorophore-linked chloramphenicol in a system where chloramphenicol and the fluorophore-linked chloramphenicol competes for the active site of the mutant CAT. Because the fluorophore-linked chloramphenicol reduces its fluorescence upon binding to the active site and vice versa increases its fluorescence upon being displaced from the active site by the presence of unmodified chloramphenicol in a sample, the increase of fluorescence caused by a testing sample indicates the presence of chloramphenicol.
US08329424B2 Reduction in false results in assay measurements
Methods and reagents are disclosed for detecting a false result in an assay measurement for determining a concentration of an analyte in a sample suspected of containing the analyte. The method comprises measuring assay signal resulting from background only and measuring assay signal resulting from the presence of analyte in the sample plus background and subtracting the first measurement from the second measurement to determine the concentration of analyte in the sample. For example, a measurement result 1 is determined by means of an assay conducted on a portion of the sample where analyte in the sample is substantially sequestered and a measurement result 2 is determined by means of the assay conducted on an equal portion of the same sample where analyte in the sample is substantially non-sequestered. Measurement result 1 is subtracted from measurement result 2 to determine the concentration of analyte in the sample.
US08329420B2 Screening method for a substance that binds to an intracellular region of TLR4
The present invention provides a method of screening for a drug for the prophylaxis or treatment of at least one disease selected from the group consisting of cardiac disease, autoimmune disease, inflammatory disease, central nervous system disease, infectious disease, sepsis, severe sepsis and septic shock, which includes selecting a substance that binds to an intracellular region of TLR4, and inhibits signal transduction from said molecule, and a kit for this method, which contains (1) a cell that expresses wild-type TLR4 and (2) a cell that expresses a mutant TLR4, and which can detect a signal from TLR4 with expression of a reporter gene as an index.
US08329419B2 GLP-1 receptor agonist bioassays
Provided herein are cell-based bioassays for measuring GLP-I receptor agonist activity of test compounds, such as GLP-I receptor agonist compounds. Exemplary GLP-I receptor agonist compounds include exendins, exendin analogs, GLP-1(7-37), and GLP-1(7-37) analogs. The bioassays are useful for quantitatively determining cAMP generated in samples containing GLP-I receptor agonist compounds (e.g., exenatide) and 6-23 (clone 6) cells having GLP-I receptors, whereby the amount of cAMP generated can be correlated to the GLP-I receptor agonist activity of the GLP-I receptor agonist compounds (e.g., exenatide). Suitable cell-based bioassays include enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence assays.
US08329416B2 Stabilized standards for busulfan immunoassay
Use of busulfan amide as stabilized standards in immunoassays for quantifying the amount of busulfan in samples of human biological fluids, methods for carrying out said immunoassay and kits for use in said immunoassay.
US08329399B2 Endometrial biomarkers
Methods for detecting endometrial diseases or an endometrium phase in a subject are described comprising measuring endometrial markers or polynucleotides encoding the markers in a sample from the subject. The invention also provides localization or imaging methods for endometrial diseases, and kits for carrying out the methods of the invention. The invention also contemplates therapeutic applications for endometrial diseases employing endometrial markers, polynucleotides encoding the markers, and/or binding agents for the markers.
US08329392B2 Determination of testosterone by mass spectrometry
Provided are methods for determining the presence or amount of testosterone in a test sample, comprising ionizing all or a portion of the testosterone present in the sample to produce one or more testosterone ions that are detectable in a mass spectrometer. All or a portion of the testosterone present in the sample is ionized to produce one or more testosterone ions, which may be isolated and fragmented to produce precursor ions. A separately detectable internal testosterone standard can be provided in the sample. In a preferred embodiment, the reference is 2,2,4,6,6-d5 testosterone.
US08329391B2 Analysis of amino acid copolymer compositions
Methods for analyzing, selecting, characterizing or classifying compositions of a co-polymer, e.g., glatiramer acetate are described. The methods entail analysis of pyro-glutamate in the composition, and, in some methods, comparing the amount of pyro-glutamate present in a composition to a reference standard. In some cases, the methods entail treating the co-polymer with pyro-glutamate aminopeptidase to cleave N-terminal pyro-glutamate residues.
US08329376B2 Silicon-containing film-forming composition, silicon-containing film, silicon-containing film-bearing substrate, and patterning method
A silicon-containing film is formed from a heat curable composition comprising (A) a silicon-containing compound obtained by effecting hydrolytic condensation of a hydrolyzable silicon compound in the presence of an acid catalyst, and substantially removing the acid catalyst from the reaction mixture, (B) a hydroxide or organic acid salt of lithium, sodium, potassium, rubidium or cesium, or a sulfonium, iodonium or ammonium compound, (C) an organic acid, and (D) an organic solvent. The silicon-containing film allows an overlying photoresist film to be patterned effectively. The composition is effective in minimizing the occurrence of pattern defects after lithography and is shelf stable.
US08329375B2 Electrostatic charge image developing toner and method of producing the same, electrostatic charge image developer, toner cartridge, process cartridge, and image forming device
A toner for developing an electrostatic charge image includes: an amorphous polyester resin; a crystalline polyester resin; and a releasing agent, an amount of the releasing agent in the toner being from 5 to 15% by weight; an amount of the releasing agent present at a surface of the toner being from 10 to 35% by weight; and the toner showing at least one endothermic peak in each of a temperature range from 45 to 60° C., a temperature range from 65 to 80° C., and a temperature range from 85 to 100° C. in a temperature-rise process of differential scanning calorimetry of the toner.
US08329358B2 Bipolar plate for fuel cell and fuel cell having the same
A bipolar plate includes a plurality of flow channels for fuel flow, wherein the flow channels are divided into a plurality of sections along a direction of the fuel flow. The total cross-sectional area of the flow channels across the sections becomes smaller from a fuel inlet toward a fuel outlet. A plurality of protrusions are formed between the sections, and the protrusions mix a fuel that passes through the flow channels. A fuel cell includes membrane electrode assemblies interposed between a plurality of the bipolar plates.
US08329355B2 Fuel cell separator and gas diffusion layer
In a fuel cell, an elastic body provides first protrusion T10 that encompasses the perimeter of the passage hole at plate member 40 and the leading edge of which spans the entire region and tightly adheres to plate member 40, provides second protrusion S20 that is disposed within the placement region of reaction membrane 10 so as to encompass the perimeter of the gas diffusion layer, and provides third protrusion S30 that is disposed to encompass the region at which first protrusion T10 is disposed and the region at which second protrusion S20 is disposed, and is disposed outside the placement region for the reaction membrane, and the leading edge of which spans the entire region and tightly adheres to a separator 30.
US08329352B2 Fuel cell system using heat exchanging element
A heat exchanging element adapted to a fuel cell system includes a plurality of heat exchanging units and a fixing unit. The heat exchanging units are arranged to be spaced apart from one another along a first direction. The fixing unit fixes the heat exchanging units. Each of the heat exchanging units is demarcated into a first part and a second part extending from the first part by the fixing unit. A thermal conductivity coefficient of each of the heat exchanging units is higher than that of the fixing unit. The fixing unit is configured to slow heat conduction between the heat exchanging units. The heat exchanging element improves a heat recovery efficiency of the fuel cell system. In addition, two kinds of fuel cell systems using the above-mentioned heat exchanging element are provided.
US08329350B2 Fuel cell power generation system
An electric power generator is particularly suitable for providing back-up power to sites with multiple power requirements. This generator comprises a rack having multiple module bays; at least one power conversion module is mounted in one of the bays and is electrically coupled to a fuel cell stack also mounted in the rack or located remote from the rack. The power conversion module converts the voltage level and/or current type of some of the electricity produced by the stack such that the generator can simultaneously output electricity at multiple voltage levels and/or current types. The rack can be a standardized nineteen relay rack, making the generator relatively compact and compatible with sites configured accept such racks.
US08329344B2 Electrolytic solution
There is provided an electrolytic solution which has excellent flame retardance, low temperature characteristics and withstand voltage, high solubility of an electrolyte salt and excellent compatibility with hydrocarbon solvents, and comprises a chain carbonate (I) and an electrolyte salt (II), and the chain carbonate (I) is represented by the formula (I): wherein Rf1 is a fluorine-containing alkyl group having a fluorine content of 10 to 76% by mass and having, at its end, a moiety represented by the formula (Ia): (HCX1X2  (Ia) wherein X1 and X2 are the same or different and each is H or F; Rf2 is a fluorine-containing alkyl group having a fluorine content of 10 to 76% by mass and having, at its end, —CF3 or the moiety represented by the above-mentioned formula (Ia).
US08329341B2 Halogenated activated carbon materials for high energy density ultracapacitors
A method for producing a halogenated activated carbon material includes heating a natural, non-lignocellulosic carbon precursor in an inert or reducing atmosphere to form a first carbon material, mixing the first carbon material with an inorganic compound to form a mixture, heating the mixture in an inert or reducing atmosphere to incorporate the inorganic compound into the first carbon material, removing the inorganic compound from the first carbon material to produce an activated carbon material, and treating the activated carbon material with a halogen source to form a halogenated activated carbon material. The halogenated activated carbon material is suitable to form improved carbon-based electrodes for use in high energy density devices.
US08329338B2 Battery with current-collector connector
The metal foil of the positive electrode 1a or the negative electrode 1b in the power generating element 1 is connected along the connecting plate portion 2b which is folded, twisted, and provided in a protruding condition from the main portion 2a of the current-collector connector 2; hence the shape of the current-collector connector 2 becomes easy to form, and a battery capable of enhancing current collection efficiency, reliability and workability can be provided.
US08329334B2 Lithium secondary battery
A lithium secondary battery that is excellent in resistance to short-circuits and heat, is unlikely to suffer a capacity loss due to impact such as dropping, and has a high capacity. The lithium secondary battery includes an electrode assembly including a strip-like positive electrode and a strip-like negative electrode that are wound together with a porous heat-resistant layer interposed therebetween, a non-aqueous electrolyte, and a battery can. The battery has a restricting part for restricting vertical movement of the electrode assembly. The distance A from the restricting part to the inner bottom face of the battery can and the width B of the negative electrode satisfy the relation: 0.965≦B/A≦0.995.
US08329332B2 Electrochemical storage cell retention system
An electrochemical storage cell retention system is provided for storage cells (1) with a container comprising a bottom portion (12), and a top portion (11) provided with electrical output terminals (13, 14). The system comprises a first tray member (2) provided with through openings (20) and a plurality of adapter cups (3), each adapter cup (3) being designed to be placed on the top portion (11) of a storage cell (1) and to be received in one of the through openings (20) of the first tray member. The retention system is modular and mechanically strong.
US08329323B2 Battery pack heat transfer
A battery pack for thermal conduction of heat from a battery cell to a portable computer system is described. The battery pack comprises a housing, a battery cell within the housing, at least one electrode, and a thermal transfer contact separate from the at least one electrode. The thermal transfer extends through the housing and transfers heat from the battery cell to external of the battery pack.
US08329321B2 Perpendicular magnetic recording medium
A perpendicular magnetic recording medium is disclosed that achieves improved recordability without deteriorating thermal stability by reducing the switching field. A perpendicular magnetic recording medium of the invention has a first magnetic recording layer and a second magnetic recording layer between with is interposed a coupling layer that ferromagnetically couples the two layers. The first and second magnetic recording layers satisfy an inequality Ku1T1>Ku2T2 in the case where Hk1 >Hk2 and an inequality Ku1T1
US08329318B2 Metal based coating composition and related coated substrates
A coated substrate is disclosed. The coated substrate includes a substrate and a coating composition over the substrate comprising at least one metal based layer selected from tungsten, chromium, tantalum, molybdenum, aluminum, niobium, and mixtures and alloys thereof; and mixtures and alloys of cobalt and chromium; and at least one dielectric layer including SixNy, where x/y ranges from 0.75 to 1.5, over the metal based layer. The ΔEcmc (1.5:1) (T), ΔEcmc (1.5:1) (R1) and ΔEcmc (1.5:1) (R2) of a non-heat treated, coated substrate as compared to a heat treated, coated substrate according to the present invention are no greater than 8 units.
US08329316B2 Tetraphenylnaphalene derivatives and organic light emitting diode using the same
The present invention provides a novel tetraphenylnaphthalene derivative, and an organic light emitting device using the same.
US08329310B2 Insecticidal composition and method
A composition for surface treatment of timber and wood products that provides protection against insect damage to all surfaces without any need for a secondary insecticide treatment of one or more new, untreated surfaces generated by post-treatment processing operations including sawing, cutting, drilling, bevelling, planing, sanding and/or a combination thereof, comprising one or more non-repellent insecticides.
US08329306B2 Barrier laminate, gas barrier film, and device using the same
Provided is a barrier laminate having higher barrier property. The barrier laminate has an organic layer obtained by curing a polymerizable composition comprising a compound represented by the following formula (1); wherein R1's represent a substituent, and R1's each may be the same or different to each other; n's are an integer of 0 to 5, and n's each may be the same or different to each other; provided that at least one of R1's comprises a polymerizable group.
US08329300B2 Coated sheet, method of formation thereof, and articles derived therefrom
A sheet material includes a polycarbonate substrate and a protective coating containing the reaction products of an aminoplast resin, a polyol compound, and a UV-absorbing amount of a triazine compound. The sheet material exhibits an improved balance of abrasion resistance, solvent resistance, weatherability, and formability.
US08329294B2 Styrene-modified polypropylene type resin particle, foamable styrene-modified polypropylene type resin particle, styrene-modified polypropylene type resin foamed particle, styrene-modified polypropylene type resin foamed molded product, and production methods thereof
A styrene-modified polypropylene type resin particle of the present invention includes: a polypropylene type resin and a polystyrene type resin, wherein the polystyrene type resin is included at 30 parts by weight or more but less than 600 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the polypropylene type resin, and polystyrene type resin particles having a longitudinal diameter of 5 μm or less are dispersed in the polypropylene type resin.
US08329292B2 Absorbent article for absorbing moisture on a structure
A method of using an absorbent article where the method includes adhering at least a portion of an absorbent article to a surface of a window through a pressure sensitive adhesive composition. The absorbent article includes an exterior surface, an acquisition layer, superabsorbent polymer, a first layer that has an exterior surface and an interior surface, and a pressure sensitive attachment adhesive composition, the superabsorbent polymer being disposed between the acquisition layer and the interior surface of the first layer, and the pressure sensitive attachment adhesive composition being disposed on the exterior surface of the absorbent article.
US08329291B2 Multi-layered composite system and method
A multi-layered composite includes a polymer adhesive layer and a polymer support film layer that becomes intimately incorporated with the polymer adhesive layer upon application of heat.
US08329288B2 Film structure with high oxygen barrier properties and method for manufacturing such a film structure
Film structure characterized in that it includes at least five layers, two outer layers (2) made of a polyolefin on which is each time provided, on the opposite sides, a layer (4) forming a gas barrier and whereby, between both above-mentioned gas barriers (4), is provided a layer (3) made of a foamed synthetic material, whereby the outer layers (2) consist of a mixture of a polyolefin and a binder, which makes it possible to bond this polyolefin with the layer (4) forming the gas barrier.
US08329283B2 Carbon-based composite material and producing method thereof
A carbon-based composite material includes a graphite substrate and a carbon-based sheet. The carbon-based sheet is adhered to a surface of the graphite substrate with a heat-resistant adhesive. The carbon-based sheet has at least one of slits and grooves.
US08329278B2 Panel with heated layer
A panel has an exterior face thereof adapted for attachment to a support frame and an interior face thereof adapted for defining a boundary of a compartment. The panel includes a core encapsulated within a panel frame of reinforced phenolic material, the core having first and second faces thereof, and a periphery. The panel frame includes first and second skins attached to the first and second faces of the core. One or more closeouts are disposed between the skins about the periphery of the core, with the one or more closeouts being attached to the first and second skins. A heating element is adjacent the interior face of the panel.
US08329274B2 Fuel hose
A fuel hose comprising a laminated structure of a tubular resin layer and an adjoining rubber layer, the rubber layer being formed by a rubber composition containing the following (A) to (E) as essential components and the following (F) at less than 0.1 parts by weight based on 100 parts by weight of the following (A) as an optional component, and the resin layer being formed by a material containing a tetrafluoroethylene-hexafluoropropylene-vinylidene fluoride-perfluoroalkyl vinyl ether quaternary polymer as a main component: (A) diene rubber; (B) a sulfur vulcanizing agent; (C) at least one selected from the group consisting of 1,8-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undecene-7 salt, 1,5-diazabicyclo[4.3.0]nonene-5 salt, 1,8-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undecene-7 and 1,5-diazabicyclo[4.3.0]nonene-5; (D) at least one of metallic salt of carbamate and metallic salt of thiazole; (E) magnesium oxide; and (F) zinc oxide.
US08329273B2 Creep resistant article
Disclosed are creep resistant articles having a polyolefin in a continuous phase and fibrils or lamellae of polyester, polyamide, or mixtures thereof dispersed in the continuous phase.
US08329272B2 Carbon fiber reinforced beam
The present invention is a structural beam having at least one composite core within a hollow beam of metal or polymeric material, i.e. a jacket, and a layer of elastomeric material between the composite core and the inner walls of the metal or polymeric jacket. This structural beam also may be fitted with brackets or holes at its ends and points along its length to allow attachment to other structural elements. The present beam provides a synergism between the properties of its composite core and the metal or polymeric jacket, and is particularly useful where a high strength to weight ratio is required.
US08329268B2 Paper-based plant pot, and blank for making same
A paper-based plant pot comprises a container formed from a sheet of paper-based material wrapped about an axis, opposite edge portions of the sheet being secured to each other, the container having a side wall that encircles the axis and a bottom wall formed by a plurality of bottom panels of the sheet folded inwardly from a lower edge of the side wall and engaging one another. The sheet comprises a paperboard substrate formed of natural cellulose fibers, an internal sizing composition incorporated into the paperboard substrate so as to render the paperboard substrate substantially resistant to saturation by liquid water, and a thermoplastic polymer layer on one of the major surfaces of the paperboard substrate. The thermoplastic polymer layer faces an interior of the container and forms an inner surface thereof for contact with soil or other growing medium placed in the container.
US08329266B2 Recording materials for ink-jet printing
A recording material printable with an ink jet printer and having a gel layer for that purpose.
US08329263B2 Method of coating a particle
Disclosed is a method of coating a particle, the method comprising contacting (i) a particle, wherein the surface of the particle comprises functional groups suitable to undergo a coupling reaction with at least a hydroxyl group, a halogen group or an akloxy group, with (ii) molecules of formula (Ia) and/or (Ib): (Ia) or (Ib) wherein A is a metal or a metalloid, R1 and (in formula (Ia)) R2 are halogen or an alkoxy group and R20 is OH, halogen or an alkoxy group. G1 is an aliphatic; cycloaliphatic, aromatic, arylaliphatic or arylcycloaliphatic spacer and E is a functional group. Molecules of the compound of general formula (Ia) and/or (Ib) are immobilized on the surface of the particle by a coupling reaction between functional groups on the surface of the particle and moieties R20 .
US08329262B2 Dielectric film formation using inert gas excitation
Methods of forming a silicon-and-nitrogen-containing layers and silicon oxide layers are described. The methods include the steps of mixing a carbon-free silicon-containing precursor with plasma effluents, and depositing a silicon-and-nitrogen-containing layer on a substrate. The silicon-and-nitrogen-containing layers may be made flowable or conformal by selection of the flow rate of excited effluents from a remote plasma region into the substrate processing region. The plasma effluents are formed in a plasma by flowing inert gas(es) into the plasma. The silicon-and-nitrogen-containing layer may be converted to a silicon-and-oxygen-containing layer by curing and annealing the film.
US08329255B2 Durable non-fluorine water repellent agent and process for preparing same
The present invention provides a crosslinkable polysiloxane-containing composition and a process for treating a textile with the composition whereby desirable properties, such as water repellency and durability, are enhanced.
US08329251B2 Method for preparing metal oxide crystalline nanoparticle films for dye sensitized solar cell photoanodes
A method for manufacturing a dye sensitized nanocrystal film having the steps of exposing a tin oxide layer on a surface of a substrate to a flame for a time sufficient to form a layer of mesoporous, crystalline titanium oxide on the fluorinated tin oxide layer followed by sintering the substrate at a temperature of from about 300 to about 500° C. The flame contains a fuel gas, such as ethylene and oxygen and titanium organometallic. The concentration of titanium organometallic is from about 10 to about 2000 ppm. During the flame exposure step, the substrate is rotated about a central axis at a speed of from about 100 to about 600 RPM, and the flame is kept at a constant distance from the surface of the substrate. The temperature of the substrate is maintained at a temperature of less than 200° C. via the rotation and jets of gas.
US08329239B2 Off-taste masking
A method of masking the off-taste of an artificial or natural sweetener, comprising the addition to the sweetener of at least one compound according to the formula I in which R1 is selected from H, C1-C4 alkyl and Ph: R2 is selected from H and Me: R3 is selected from H, C1-C4 alkyl and Ph: R4 is selected from H and C1-C4 alkyl: or R3, R4 together form a five, six or seven-membered aliphatic ring.
US08329225B2 Antioxidant polymer nanocarriers for use in preventing oxidative injury
The present invention is a method for encapsulating active protein in a polymeric nanocarrier. The instant method employs homogenization at subzero temperatures so that enzyme activity is retained. Enzymes which can be encapsulated by the present method include, for example, antioxidant enzymes and xenobiotic detoxifying enzymes. Encapsulation of an enzyme protects it from protease degradation and increases therapeutic half-life. Advantageously, polymeric nanoparticles of the invention are permeable to enzyme substrates and therefore enzymes encapsulated by the instant method can exert their effect without release from the nanocarrier. Methods for decomposing a reactive oxygen species, protecting against vascular oxidative stress, and detoxifying a xenobiotic are also provided.
US08329223B2 Double walled microcapsules with an outer thermoplastic wall and application process thereof
The present invention concerns double-walled microcapsules with an outer thermoplastic wall and an application process thereof on substrates, namely textile substrate. The microcapsules are applied to fibers so as to produce a slow release of products such as fragrances, antimicrobial, insecticides, antioxidants, vitamins or they can be used as materials such as thermochromic pigments, that change color when heated, or “phase change materials” (PCM), that convey thermal insulation/control.
US08329222B1 Magnetic nanomedicine for tumor suppression and therapy
A magnetic nanomedicine for tumor suppression and therapy, comprising: a core, made of magnetic nanoparticles; a shell, encapsulating said core and is made of carboxylated polyaniline (SPAnH); and a tumor suppression medicine Epirubicin (EPI) or Doxorubicin (DOX) covalently bonded onto said shell. Said magnetic nanomedicine is capable of improving its thermal stability, and it can be dissolved uniformly in water, plus its superparamagnetic property, thus it can be guided by an outside magnetic field to concentrate to the site of tumor distribution to increase the local medicine concentration and enhance therapy effect.
US08329216B2 Oxymorphone controlled release formulations
The invention pertains to a method of relieving pain by administering a controlled release pharmaceutical tablet containing oxymorphone which produces a mean minimum blood plasma level 12 to 24 hours after dosing, as well as the tablet producing the sustained pain relief.
US08329215B2 Shell and core dosage form approaching zero-order drug release
Drugs are formulated as oral dosage forms for controlled release in which the release rate limiting portion is a shell surrounding the drug-containing core. The shell releases drug from the core by permitting diffusion of the drug from the core. The shell also motes gastric retention of the dosage form by swelling upon imbibition of gastric fluid to size that is retained in the stomach during the postprandial or fed mode.
US08329210B2 Twin transdermal drug delivery patch
A transdermal drug delivery device is shown and described. The device includes an occlusive or non-occlusive backing, an adhesive, at least one drug delivery region, an adhesive, and a release liner. The device has an open configuration and a closed configuration. When the device is in the closed configuration, the adhesive, the at least one drug delivery region, and the release liner are disposed between first and second portions of the backing.
US08329204B2 Method of treating bone with a curable composition
The present invention relates to a biocompatible polymer composition suitable for bone repair and a method of treating bone repair using a curable polymer composition wherein the cured composition has an elongation until rupture of at least 10%.
US08329203B2 Drug-containing implants and methods of use thereof
The present invention provides implants comprising a therapeutic drug and a polymer containing polylactic acid (PLA) and optionally polyglycolic acid (PGA). The present invention also provides methods of maintaining a therapeutic level of a drug in a subject, releasing a therapeutic drug at a substantially linear rate, and treating schizophrenia and other diseases and disorders, utilizing implants of the present invention.
US08329199B2 Compositions that include a hydrophobic compound and a polyamino acid conjugate
Various compositions that include a hydrophobic compound and a polyamino acid conjugate are prepared. The compositions described herein are useful for a variety of drug, biomolecule, and imaging agent delivery applications.
US08329188B2 Human M2e peptide immunogens
The present invention provides novel peptide immunogens comprising influenza virus matrix 2 protein epitopes and related compositions and methods. The present invention relates to a composition comprising a peptide immunogen useful for the prevention and treatment of an influenza virus-mediated disease. The invention also relates to vaccines, immunogenic products and immunogenic compositions containing the peptide immunogens.
US08329182B2 Immunoglobulin chimeric monomer-dimer hybrids
The invention relates to a chimeric monomer-dimer hybrid protein wherein the protein comprises a first and a second polypeptide chain, the first polypeptide chain comprising at least a portion of an immunoglobulin constant region and a biologically active molecule, and the second polypeptide chain comprising at least a portion of an immunoglobulin constant region without the biologically active molecule of the first chain. The invention also relates to methods of using and methods of making the chimeric monomer-dimer hybrid protein of the invention.
US08329181B2 Methods for treating B-cell lymphoma by administering an anti-CD20 antibody
The present invention provides methods for treating a B-cell lymphoma in a human subject. The methods of the invention comprise administering to a subject in need thereof an antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof that specifically binds human CD20. In certain embodiments, the methods of the invention are useful for treating non-Hodgkin's B-cell lymphoma.
US08329178B2 Antibodies against CXCR4 and methods of use thereof
The invention provides human monoclonal antibodies or fragments thereof, that specifically bind to CXCR4. Disclosed are methods of use of such antibodies for the treatment and/or prevention of a CXCR4 disease or disorder such as cancer and X4-tropic HIV-1 infection Also provided are methods of use of such antibodies and antibody fragments for the treatment or prevention of cancer metastasis. The invention provides methods of mobilizing CD34+stem cells from the bone marrow and methods of blocking chemotaxis of CXCR4-expressing cells in response to SDF-1. Also provided are methods of use of the antibodies and fragments thereof for the prevention or treatment of graft-versus-host disease. Finally, the invention provides methods of inhibiting new tumor blood vessel formation and/or tumor cell angiogenesis.
US08329165B2 Composition for the treatment of ballast water containing bacteriophage as an effective component and biological method with the same for removing bacteria present in ballast water
The present invention relates to a composition for the treatment of ballast water containing bacteriophage capable of killing specific target bacteria as an active ingredient in order to eliminate or reduce bacteria including pathogenic bacteria present in ballast water, and a biological treatment method of ballast water.
US08329164B2 Methods and compositions concerning poxviruses and cancer
The present invention concerns methods and compositions for the treatment of cancer and cancer cells using altered poxviruses, including a vaccinia virus that has been altered to generate a more effective therapeutic agent. Such poxviruses are engineered to be attenuated or weakened in their ability to affect normal cells. In some embodiments, methods and compositions involve poxviruses that possess mutations that result in poxviruses with diminished or eliminated capability to implement an antiviral response in a host. Poxviruses with these mutations in combination with other mutations can be employed for more effective treatment of cancer.
US08329161B2 Red blood cell-derived vesicles as a nanoparticle drug delivery system
Red blood cell-derived vesicles (RDV) as a nanoparticle drug delivery system. The RDV are smaller than one micrometer, capable of encapsulating and delivering an exogenous substance into cells. The substance may be at least one selected from the group consisting of fluorophores, nucleic acids, superparamagnetic compounds and therapeutic agents. The RDV are capable of delivering encapsulated substances into cells including stem cells. The delivered substance within the cell or stem cell may be traced or tracked using a suitable device either in vitro or in vivo.
US08329149B2 Topical lightening composition and uses thereof
The disclosure relates to novel topical lightening compositions a skin depigmenting agent and a vehicle. There is provided a topical lightening composition comprising a substituted-4-oxobutanoic acid, ester, or amide tyrosinase inhibitor, and a vehicle. The depigmenting agents of this disclosure can be used as such or as a pharmaceutically acceptable salt including conventional non-toxic salts which include a metal salt or an alkaline earth metal salt, an ammonium salt, or an organic base salt. The depigmenting agents of this disclosure can be incorporated into any cosmetically-, dermatologically-, or cosmeticatically-acceptable vehicle or carrier normally used for topical application. The compositions and methods of the disclosure are effective to lighten skin, hair, lips, and/or nails.
US08329134B2 Method for fabricating carbon nanotube film
A method for fabricating a carbon nanotube film includes the following steps: providing a vacuum chamber having a carbon nanotube array therein; and pulling a carbon nanotube film out from the carbon nanotube array.
US08329130B2 Method of synthesizing crystalline polymeric boron-nitrogen compound and dehydrogenation of boron-nitrogen-hydrogen complex
The present invention provides a method for synthesis of crystalline polymeric boron-nitrogen compounds comprising a step of dehydrogenation of a boron-nitrogen-hydrogen compound on catalyst, wherein the boron-nitrogen-hydrogen compound is selected from the group consisting of ammonia borane, metal amidoboranes, amine boranes or mixtures thereof, and the catalyst is selected from the group consisting of transition metals, transition metal salts or alloys.
US08329126B2 Apparatus and methods for treating exhaust gases
The present invention, in some embodiments, provides catalyst modules and/or catalytic reactors having increased effective catalyst cross-sectional areas. In some embodiments, a catalyst module comprises a fluid stream inlet side comprising a plurality of first catalyst bodies and a plurality of first ducts and a fluid stream outlet side comprising a plurality of second catalyst bodies and a plurality of second ducts, wherein the first ducts are a fluid stream inlet to the second catalyst bodies and the second ducts are a fluid stream outlet for the first catalyst bodies.
US08329117B2 Microfluidic chip features for optical and thermal isolation
A microfluidic chip includes microfluidic channels, elements for thermally and optically isolating the microfluidic channels, and elements for enhancing the detection of optical signal emitted from the microfluidic channels. The thermal and optical isolation elements may comprise barrier channels interposed between adjacently-arranged pairs of microfluidic channels for preventing thermal and optical cross-talk between the adjacent microfluidic channels. The isolation element may alternatively comprise reflective film embedded in the microfluidic chip between the adjacent microfluidic channels. The signal enhancement elements comprise structures disposed adjacent to the microfluidic channels that reflect light passing through or emitted from the microfluidic channel in a direction toward a detector. The structures may comprise channels or a faceted surface that redirects the light by total internal reflection or reflective film material embedded in the microfluidic chip.
US08329115B2 Nanofluidic preconcentration device in an open environment
This invention provides a device and methods for increasing the concentration of a charged species in solution, wherein the solution containing the concentrated species is exposed to the environment. Such solution can be formed on a surface or on a tip of a measurement device. The open-environment concentration technique overcomes the disadvantages of in-channel concentration devices, especially by eliminating flow-induced delivery processes that lead to concentration losses. Combined with direct contact dispensing, methods of this invention can be used for various applications such as immunoassay and MALDI-MS.
US08329113B2 Additive effect enhanced hydrogen peroxide disinfection method and apparatus
A method which enhances a disinfection process by obtaining an additive effect from energy and byproducts of the decomposition process. Also disclosed are contact lens disinfecting systems, wherein the systems are configured to create the desirable elevated pressure, oxygen saturation and sustained peroxide concentration conditions within a contact lens holding and reaction chamber, in order to enhance disinfection by additive effect. The systems are configured to provide that an elevated pressure is maintained in the reaction chamber before venting occurs.
US08329108B2 Isoolefin-diolefin production process and apparatus therefore
In an isoolefin-diolefin rubber production process (e.g. a butyl rubber production process), the cold rubber slurry produced in the reaction vessel is transported from the reaction vessel to the flash tank during which time the cold slurry may be expressed to separate at least part of the cold liquid reaction medium from the isoolefin-diolefin rubber. The separated cold liquid reaction medium is transported off stream, for example by a mechanical filter, where it can be recycled back into the reaction vessel and/or where it can be used to cool a feed stream or streams of the reaction components. The isoolefin-diolefin rubber and the residual liquid reaction medium are transported to a flash tank for further processing. The ability to separate and recycle cold liquid reaction medium makes the process more economical. In one aspect, the slurry may be transported from the reaction vessel to the flash tank by a self-cleaning fully intermeshing co-rotating twin screw extruder, which helps overcome the problem of plugging due to rubber sticking to the surfaces of the slurry transfer apparatus.
US08329106B2 Miniaturized apparatus for real-time monitoring
The present invention relates to a apparatus for quantitative continuous real-time monitoring to monitor a continuous reaction of biochemical reagent and the reaction, such as DNA. More particularly, the present invention is directed to a miniaturized apparatus for real-time monitoring of biochemical reaction, which comprises capillary tubes (100) wherein biochemical reaction mixture flow; a thermal conduction block (120) which is coiled with capillary tube several rounds in order and composed of several blocks for temperature control of which temperatures are different from each other for heating or cooling the biochemical reaction mixture which flow in capillary tube, and a temperature controller which controls the temperature of above temperature control block; a radiation part (130) to radiate the reaction mixture flowing through the capillary tube and a light receiving section (140) which receives and measures the intensity of the fluorescence generated from the capillary tubes.
US08329105B1 Portable furnace for assaying a crushed ore sample
A lightweight, compact, easy-to-use, portable furnace used for quickly assaying crushed ore samples in the field and used by prospectors, miners, and geologists. The portable furnace can also be used for smelting precious metals and refining and recycling different metals. The furnace includes a metal stand having a stand base with a first end portion with a dish opening therein and a second end portion with an upwardly folded heat shield. The heat shield includes a nozzle groove therein for receiving a gas nozzle. The gas nozzle is part of a gas blow torch having a handle and a gas tank. The stand base also includes first and second sides folded downwardly for holding the metal stand above a flat surface. A bottom of a scorifying dish is received in the dish opening. A cupel is received inside the open top of the scorifying dish. The cupel is adapted for receiving a crushed ore sample therein to be assayed. A dish lid is received on top of the scorifying dish. The lid is used to help direct a gas flame from the end of the gas nozzle around the outer circumference of the cupel and heating and assaying the ore sample inside the cupel.
US08329104B2 Measurement device with at least one sensor
A measurement device has at least one sensor for detecting a parameter, a data storage unit, and a power supply for said sensor and data storage unit. In addition to the first sensor, the measurement device has at least one second sensor connected to the power supply and to the data storage unit. The second sensor is provided for detecting a physical quantity acting on the first sensor and is capable of permanently altering the measurement characteristic of the first sensor. An evaluator functions coactively with the second sensor and the data storage unit so that the permanent alteration of the measurement characteristic of the first sensor is recordable as a function of the measurement signal of the second sensor.
US08329098B2 Additive effect enhanced hydrogen peroxide disinfection method and apparatus
A method which enhances a disinfection process by obtaining an additive effect from energy and byproducts of the decomposition process. Also disclosed are contact lens disinfecting systems, wherein the systems are configured to create the desirable elevated pressure, oxygen saturation and sustained peroxide concentration conditions within a contact lens holding and reaction chamber, in order to enhance disinfection by additive effect. The systems are configured to provide that an elevated pressure is maintained in the reaction chamber before venting occurs.
US08329097B1 Sterilization of intraocular lenses
A packaged, sterilized intraocular lens prepared by a process comprising providing a hydrophobic acrylic, or low water acrylic, intraocular lens and positioning the acrylic lens in a lens enclosure with an aqueous solution to provide a lens package. The lens package is then heated to a temperature sufficient for sterilization, however, the heating of the lens package must begin before the acrylic lens reaches an equilibrated, hydrated state following contact of the lens with the aqueous solution. The resulting sterilized acrylic intraocular lens will have less than sixty percent of total volume of disc-like features, or less than forty percent of total volume of water vacuoles, after 60 days following sterilization compared to an acrylic lens of the same composition, which was sterilized under the same conditions, but in an equilibrated, hydrated state.
US08329080B2 Conductive composition, electrophotographic belt, image forming apparatus, and method of manufacturing conductive composition
A conductive composition including a matrix resin comprising a thermoplastic resin, a conductive agent comprising a carbon black having an amine value of 1 to 100 mgKOH/g, and a stiffening agent comprising an acid anhydride, a carboxylic acid, or a compound having an epoxy group.
US08329075B2 Method and device for monitoring, documenting, and/or controlling an injection molding machine
A method for monitoring, documenting, and/or controlling an injection molding machine (P) having an injection molding tool (1) into which a melt is introduced, wherein a viscosity of the melt in the injection molding tool (1) is determined directly.
US08329074B2 Device and method for repairing mortar joints between chimmey tiles
A device for repairing a chimney preferably includes a rod effective for positioning and manipulating a camera and a plunger blade in a chimney; a camera attached to the lower portion of the rod in a manner such that rotation of the rod results in a corresponding rotation of the camera; and a plunger blade attached to the rod above the camera. The plunger blade is adapted to apply mortar to the sides of a chimney when the device is pulled upward in the chimney. The device may further include a camera-direction indicator attached to the rod above the plunger blade in a manner such that the camera-direction indicator is effective for indicating the direction of view of said camera even when the camera is not visible to the operator.
US08329057B2 Working liquid for latent heat transport apparatus and method for operating latent heat transport apparatus
A method for operating a latent heat transport apparatus by providing a working liquid for a latent heat transport apparatus, which includes a compound of the formula C6F13C2H5 at an operation temperature of from −50 to 200° C.
US08329051B2 Method for forming stair-step structures
A method for forming a stair-step structure in a substrate is provided. An organic mask is formed over the substrate. A hardmask with a top layer and sidewall layer is formed over the organic mask. The sidewall layer of the hard mask is removed while leaving the top layer of the hardmask. The organic mask is trimmed. The substrate is etched. The forming the hardmask, removing the sidewall layer, trimming the organic mask, and etching the substrate are repeated a plurality of times.
US08329046B2 Methods for damage etch and texturing of silicon single crystal substrates
Methods for performing damage etch and texturing of single crystal silicon substrates, particularly for use as solar cells or photovoltaic cells. Damage etch with a TMAH solution followed by texturing using solution of KOH or NaOH mixed with IPA is particularly advantageous. The substitution of some of the IPA with ethylene glycol further improves results. Also disclosed is a process that combines both damage etch and texturing etch into a single step.
US08329045B2 Stationary cloth media filtration
A method for filtering water or wastewater including the steps of filtering by gravity through a stationary cloth filter media supported in a treatment basin by a structure forming an effluent plenum, and cleaning the media by backwashing.
US08329043B2 Method and device for treating a liquid
In a method of treating a liquid, a liquid to be treated is introduced into a space, a mechanical cavitation element acts upon the liquid while gas is supplied into the region of the surface of the cavitation element and introduces the gas into the liquid by moving the cavitation element, and sound waves are introduced directly into the liquid by at least one acoustic power transducer.
US08329042B2 Method of treating sludge material using electrokinetics
Sludge is treated in a treatment chamber by providing a pair of electrodes in the treatment chamber and applying an electrical current between the electrodes such that one of the electrodes functions as an anode and one of the electrodes functions as a cathode in proximity to the outlet. A flow of water is induced from the sludge towards the outlet by the electrical current. An ion exchange textile comprising exchangeable functional groups grafted thereon is located in proximity to at least one of the electrodes such that the ionic forms of the metals are exchanged with the functional groups on the ion exchange textile. Accordingly the sludge is dewatered and metals in the sludge are captured commonly in the treatment chamber while the electrical current simultaneously inactivates pathogens in the treatment chamber.
US08329033B2 Fuel supply device, particularly for an internal combustion engine
A fuel supply device (1), particularly for an internal combustion engine (6), is equipped with a particulate filter and a water trap. In order to improve the separation effect, while simultaneously reducing the separation material that is required, it is proposed to configure the water trap (5, 8, 30) as a separate component connected downstream of the fuel filer (4) and to provide it with a first separation stage made of coalescent material and a second separation stage made of hydrophobic material, and to dispose the separation stages such that between them the fuel is diverted.
US08329027B2 Treatment apparatus, solution stirring method and solution transfer method
The electrolytic reaction of a solution supplemented with oxidation-reduction substances is caused in a magnetic field. Lorentz force generated by the interaction between an electrolytic current and the magnetic field is utilized. As a result, the effective stirring or transfer of a solution as well as the detection of a biologically relevant substance with high precision can be achieved without causing the aggregation or uneven distribution of magnetic beads or the like.
US08329025B2 Analyte determination method and analyte meter
The presence of oxygen or red blood cells in a sample applied to an electrochemical test strip that makes use of a reduced mediator is corrected for by an additive correction factor that is determined as a function of the temperature of the sample and a measurement that reflects the oxygen carrying capacity of the sample. The measured oxygen carrying capacity can also be used to determine hematocrit and to distinguish between blood samples and control solutions applied to a test strip.
US08329023B2 Method for quantifying a chemical substance with substitutional stripping voltammetry and a sensor chip used therefor
The purpose of the invention is to provide a method for quantifying a chemical substance with high accuracy using substitutional stripping voltammetry and a sensor chip used therefor.A sensor chip comprising a stripping electrode which is covered with stripping gel and a method utilizing the sensor chip. A reaction represented by the following formula (III) occurs at the stripping electrode. [Chem. 3] Ag+X⊖→AgX↓+e⊖  (III)
US08329015B2 Dielectrophoretic process for retaining polarizable target-particles and device for performing that process
A process and a device for retaining polarizable target-particles from a fluid suspension of polarizable target-particles comprising the steps of pumping that suspension into a vertical or inclined channel and applying an alternating electric field inducing a negative dielectrophoretic force on the target-particles, the force being sufficient to push them a distance of at least or about 25 m from the surface of an electrode-bearing wall, thereby creating an upward-moving clarified fluid zone in the vicinity of that wall and a downward-moving target-particle containing fluid zone at a distance from that wall.
US08329011B2 Polymerase-immobilized electrode
The present invention is to reduce a false signal in an apparatus for electrochemically decoding a base sequence of DNA, which false signal is caused by a phenomenon that even unreacted nucleotide 5′-triphosphate derivatives remaining in the solution are electrochemically converted on an electrode. The present invention provides a polymerase-immobilized electrode that comprises an electroconductive substrate and a polymerase unit immobilized on the surface of the electroconductive substrate, wherein the polymerase unit comprises a polymerase part, an anchor part and an electroconductive part, which are linked in an order of the polymerase part, the anchor part and the electroconductive part, or in an order of the polymerase part, the electroconductive part and the anchor part; and the polymerase unit is immobilized on the electroconductive substrate by the anchor part; wherein a free end of the electroconductive part, not immobilized on the electroconductive substrate, is located in the vicinity of an active site of the polymerase part.
US08329008B2 Gas generating device and carbon electrode for gas generation
A gas generating device of present invention is generated a first gas at a first carbon electrode by applying a voltage between said first carbon electrode and a second electrode to electrolyzing an electrolytic solution. The first carbon electrode is an anode or a cathode. The first carbon electrode is provided with a plurality of fine gas flow channels which selectively pass said first gas generated on one surface of said first carbon electrode to the other surface without allowing said electrolytic solution to permeate therethrough.
US08329005B2 Barrel plating apparatus
Disclosed herein is a barrel plating apparatus. The barrel plating apparatus includes a barrel plating tank filled with an electrolytic solution, a barrel container immersed in the electrolytic solution of the barrel plating tank and filled with chip parts and media, a power supply unit for supplying current to an anode part and a cathode part which transfer the current to the barrel container and the electrolytic solution of the barrel plating tank, a driving motor for rotating the barrel container, and a hall current sensor formed in at least one cathode rod of the cathode part, coming into direct contact with the chip parts, the hall current sensor measuring the current. Accordingly, in the barrel plating apparatus, the currents of respective cathode rods are measured by hall current sensors, and thus variations in plating thickness can be reduced.
US08329001B2 Structure, magnetic recording medium, and method of producing the same
To provide a filmy structure of a nanometer size having a phase-separated structure effective for the case where a compound can be formed between two kinds of materials. A structure constituted by a first member containing a compound between an element A except both Si and Ge and SinGe1-n (where 0≦n≦1) and a second member containing one of the element A and SinGe1-n (where 0≦n≦1), in which one of the first member and the second member is a columnar member, formed on a substrate, whose side face is surrounded by the other member, the ratio Dl/Ds of an average diameter Dl in the major axis direction to an average diameter Ds in the minor axis direction of a transverse sectional shape of the columnar member is less than 5, and the element A is one of Li, Na, Mg, K, Ca, Sc, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Rb, Sr, Y, Zr, Nb, Mo, Ru, Rh, Pd, Cs, Ba, La, Hf, Ta, W, Re, Os, Ir, Pt, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, Lu, and B.
US08329000B2 Workpiece with hard coating
A workpiece has a body (3) and a wear-resistant hard coating system (HLo), which system comprises a layer of the following composition: (Al1-a-b-cCraBbZc)X where X is at least one of: N, C, CN, NO, CO, CNO; Z is at least one of: W, Mo, Ta, Cb (Nb). For a, b and c specific ranges of values are valid.
US08328999B2 Method for controlling film forming apparatus, film forming method, film forming apparatus, organic EL electronic device, and storage medium having program for controlling film forming apparatus stored therein
A material having a low work function is quickly inserted near an interface between an organic layer and a cathode. A sputtering apparatus (Sp) includes a target material formed of silver (Ag), a dispenser formed outside a processing container and evaporating cesium (Cs) having a lower work function than silver (Ag) by heating the cesium (Cs), a first gas supply pipe communicating with the dispenser to transfer evaporated cesium (Cs) to the processing container by using argon gas as a carrier gas, and a high frequency power supply source supplying high frequency power to the processing container. A controller generates plasma by exciting the argon gas by using energy of the high frequency power, and while forming a metal electrode by using an silver (Ag) atom, wherein the Ag atom is generated from a the target material by using the generated plasma, controls a ratio of the cesium (Cs) mixed with the metal electrode.
US08328994B2 Ethanol recovery system for cellulosic feedstocks
Processes for the recovery of ethanol, useful as a fuel, from various cellulosic feedstock materials fermented to produce ethanol-containing beer are disclosed. The present invention provides a method and a system for ethanol recovery from highly viscous fermented citrus waste biomass. The systems overcome various challenges, including effectively stripping the ethanol from biomass beer in an energy efficient and economical manner that may allow for the further dehydration of the ethanol/water mix in a traditional rectifier distillation column. In certain embodiments, a series of flash stages and beer stripping columns are capable of operating with highly viscous slurries and/or feedstocks containing high levels of solids.
US08328987B2 Process of making a wet formed cellulosic product and a wet formed cellulosic product
According to the disclosure, a process of making a wet formed cellulosic product and a wet formed cellulosic product are disclosed. The process includes providing a slurry, forming the slurry into a cellulosic product, dewatering the cellulosic product, drying the cellulosic product, and applying an additive to one or more of the slurry and the cellulosic product. The additive modifies one or more of bulk, charge, potential, cumulative pore volume, surface tension of the cellulosic product.
US08328965B2 Method for manufacturing spheroidal cast iron mechanical components
A method for manufacturing mechanical components made of spheroidal cast iron, comprising the following steps: —providing a casting of a mechanical component made of cast iron having a structure which is at least partially ferritic and has a carbon content ranging from 2.5% to 4.0% and a silicon content ranging from 2.0% to 3.5%; —bringing the cast iron casting having an at least partially ferritic structure to a temperature for partial austenitizing which is higher than the lower limit austenitizing temperature (Ac1) and lower than the upper limit austenitizing temperature (Ac3) for a time required to obtain an at least partially austenitic structure; —performing a thermal treatment for isothermal hardening at a temperature ranging from 250° C. to 400° C. in order to obtain a matrix which has at least partially a pearlitic-ferritic or perferritic structure.
US08328963B2 Aluminum alloy sheet superior in paint baking hardenability and invulnerable to room temperature aging, and method for production thereof
An aluminum alloy sheet of specific Al—Mg—Si composition, which, owing to preliminary aging treatment under adequate conditions, has a specific metallographic structure in which there are a large number of clusters of specific size (each being an aggregate of atoms) expressed in terms of number density, which, when observed under a transmission electron microscope of 1,000,000 magnifications, appear as dark contrast in the bright field image. It is superior in paint baking hardenability and is invulnerable to room temperature aging during storage for a comparatively long period of 1 to 4 months.
US08328961B2 Iron-nickel alloy strip for the manufacture of support grids for the integrated circuits
The invention concerns an iron-nickel alloy strip comprising the following expressed in wt. %: 32≦Co+Ni≦45%, 0≦Co≦6.5%, 0≦Cr=6.5%, Cu≦3%, Si≦0.5%, Mn≦0.75%, the rest being made up of iron and unavoidable impurities resulting from production, whereof the microstructure has a recrystallized volume fraction ranging from 3 to 97%, whereof the thickness is less than 0.5 mm. The invention also concerns the use thereof in the manufacture of support grids for integrated circuits.
US08328952B2 Method of perfuming
A method of perfuming in automatic dishwashing comprising the step of providing a first perfume into an automatic dishwashing machine wherein the first perfume is capable of generating a second perfume comprising from about 0.001% to about 10% by weight thereof of a sulphurous compound.
US08328947B2 Method for low water hydrolysis or pretreatment of polysaccharides in a lignocellulosic feedstock
A method is provided for hydrolyzing polysaccharides in a lignocellulosic feedstock to produce monosaccharides or pretreating a lignocellulosic feedstock, in which an aqueous slurry of the lignocellulosic feedstock is fed into a pressurized dewatering zone wherein the feedstock is partially dewatered and then is compressed into a plug. The plug is introduced into a reaction zone that operates at a pressure (Pr) equal to greater than about 90 psia and under suitable temperature and pH conditions to hydrolyze the polysaccharides or pretreat the feedstock. The plug provides a pressure seal between the outlet of the dewatering zone and the reaction zone. The pressure (Pdwi) of the aqueous slurry of the lignocellulosic feedstock at the inlet of the dewatering device is related to Pr as follows: 0≦ΔP
US08328945B2 Coating apparatus and method with indirect thermal stabilization
An apparatus includes a work piece support for holding and selectively rotating a work piece, a coating delivery apparatus configured to apply a coating material to the work piece, a susceptor positioned adjacent to the work piece support, and a first electron gun configured to direct a first electron beam at the susceptor such that the susceptor radiates heat toward the work piece.
US08328943B2 Film forming apparatus and method
A film forming apparatus includes a processing chamber inside which a vacuum space is maintained and to which a film forming gas is supplied, a substrate supporting unit which is disposed inside the processing chamber and supports a substrate, and a heater which is made of a compound material comprising a high-melting point metal and carbon, is disposed inside the processing chamber, and heats the substrate.
US08328939B2 Diffuser plate with slit valve compensation
The present invention generally comprises a diffuser plate for a PECVD chamber. The diffuser plate comprises a plurality of hollow cathode cavities. The edge of the diffuser plate that will reside closest to a slit valve within a processing chamber may have the shape and/or size of the hollow cathode cavities adjusted to compensate for the proximity to the slit valve. By adjusting the shape and/or size of the hollow cathode cavities closest to the slit valve, the diffuser plate may permit a uniform plasma distribution across the processing chamber and thus, a uniform film thickness upon a substrate during a PECVD process.
US08328937B2 Seed crystal axis for solution growth of single crystal
A seed crystal axis used in a solution growth of single crystal production system is provided to prevent formation of polycrystals and grow a single crystal with a high growth rate. The seed crystal axis includes a seed crystal bonded to a seed crystal support member between which is interposed a laminated carbon sheet having a high thermal conductivity in a direction perpendicular to a solution surface of a solvent. The laminated carbon sheet includes a plurality of carbon thin films laminated with an adhesive or a plurality of pieces with differing lamination directions arranged in a lattice. Alternatively, a wound carbon sheet including a carbon strip wound concentrically from the center or a wound carbon sheet including a plurality of carbon strips with differing thicknesses which are wound and laminated from the center may be provided.
US08328928B2 Metal nanoink and process for producing the metal nanoink, and die bonding method and die bonding apparatus using the metal nanoink
Metal nanoink (100) for bonding an electrode of a semiconductor die and an electrode of a substrate and/or bonding an electrode of a semiconductor die and an electrode of another semiconductor die by sintering under pressure is produced by injecting oxygen into an organic solvent (105) in the form of oxygen nanobubbles (125) or oxygen bubbles (121) either before or after metal nanoparticles (101) whose surfaces are coated with a dispersant (102) are mixed into the organic solvent (105). Bumps are formed on the electrode of the semiconductor die and the electrode of the substrate by ejecting microdroplets of the metal nanoink (100) onto the electrodes, the semiconductor die is turned upside down and overlapped in alignment over the substrate, and then, the metal nanoparticles of the bumps are sintered under pressure by pressing and heating the bumps between the electrodes. As a result, generation of voids during sintering under pressure is minimized.
US08328924B2 Phase change inks and methods of making the same
A solid ink composition suitable for ink jet printing, including printing on coated paper substrates. In embodiments, the solid ink composition comprises both a crystalline component and an amorphous component, and optionally, a colorant, which provides for a robust ink.
US08328917B2 System and method for photocatalytic oxidation air filtration using a substrate with photocatalyst particles powder coated thereon
The present invention relates to an air filtration system and a method for making a photocatalytic oxidation substrate by powder coating a photocatalyst onto a metal substrate.
US08328916B2 Filter device for hydrocarbon adsorption
A hydrocarbon adsorption filter device comprising: a filter housing; at least one filter element with activated carbon arranged in the filter housing; an intake canal, connecting the filter housing with an environment, wherein fresh air is taken in during a flushing operation; and an intake canal housing cover, wherein the intake canal housing cover includes a labyrinthine canal structure having a first end and an opposing second end, wherein the first end is in communication with the intake canal while the second end is in communication with a floor-side opening of the housing.
US08328913B2 Flammable gas concentration system
A flammable gas concentration system is described, which includes a concentrating apparatus for acquiring at least a portion of the product gas, concentrating the flammable gas included in the acquired product gas, and generating a high-concentration gas; and a mixer for acquiring the raw gas and the high-concentration gas generated by the concentrating apparatus, mixing the acquired high-concentration gas and the raw gas, and generating the product gas.
US08328911B2 Method for removing CO2 from coal-fired power plant flue gas using ammonia as the scrubbing solution, with a chemical additive for reducing NH3 losses, coupled with a membrane for concentrating the CO2 stream to the gas stripper
A method for removing and capturing carbon dioxide from a fluid stream includes the steps of exposing the fluid stream to an aqueous scrubbing solution that removes and holds carbon dioxide from the fluid stream, passing the aqueous scrubbing solution through a membrane in order to separate excess water from the scrubbing solution and increase the concentration of carbon dioxide in the scrubbing solution, heating the scrubbing solution having an increased concentration of carbon dioxide so as to release carbon dioxide gas and recycling the scrubbing solution. A carbon dioxide capture apparatus includes a carbon dioxide scrubber, a membrane downstream from the scrubber for separating water and concentrating carbon dioxide in a scrubbing solution and a stripper vessel.
US08328901B2 Integrated containment system
Embodiments of the invention generally provide a containment system having integrated bubble tight-dampers. In another embodiment, the containment system includes an integral auto-scan mechanism disposed in the housing of the containment system so that a filter element, disposed in the housing, may be leak tested without accessing the interior of the housing. In yet another embodiment, a method for testing a filter disposed in a containment system includes challenging an upstream side of a filter element disposed in a housing of the containment system with a test aerosol, and automatically moving a probe disposed within the housing to obtain samples for leak testing.
US08328885B2 Fuel reformer burner of fuel cell system
A fuel reformer burner in which fuel gas and anode-off-gas (AOG) may be burned and backfire may be prevented during combustion of AOG includes a fuel supply portion, an anode-off-gas (AOG) supply portion; and a combustion air supply portion. The fuel supply portion and the AOG supply portion are arranged inside the combustion air supply portion, which is formed to extend beyond the discharge sides of the fuel supply portion and the AOG supply portion.
US08328876B2 Bone matrix compositions and methods
The present invention provides methods of improving the osteogenic and/or chondrogenic activity of a bone matrix, e.g., a dermineralized bone matrix (DBM), by exposing the bone matrix to one or more treatments or conditions. In preferred embodiments the bone matrix is derived from human bone. The treatment or condition may alter the structure of the bone matrix and/or cleave one or more specific proteins. Cleavage may generate peptides or protein fragments that have osteoinductive, osteogenic, or chondrogenic activity. Preferred treatments include collagenase and various other proteases. The invention further provides improved bone and cartilage matrix compositions that have been prepared according to the inventive methods and methods of treatment using the compositions. The invention further provides methods of preparing, testing, and using the improved bone matrix compositions. Ona assay comprises exposing relatively undifferentiated mesenchymal cells to a bone matrix composition and measuring expression of a marker characteristic of osteoblast or chondrocyte lineage(s). Increased expression of the marker relative to the level of the marker in cells that have been exposed to a control matrix (e.g., an inactivated or untreated matrix) indicates that the treatment or condition increased the osteogenic and/or chondrogenic activity of the bone matrix. Suitable cells include C2C12 cells. A suitable marker is alkaline phosphatase. The inventive methods increase the osteogenic and/or chondrogenic activity of human DBM when tested using this assay system.
US08328863B2 Optimal ratio of polar and bending moment of inertia for stent strut design
An intravascular stent is provided to be implanted in coronary arteries and other body lumens. The transverse cross-section of at least some of the stent struts have a ratio of polar and bending moments of inertia, which results in optimal resistance to stent twisting. This resistance to twisting ratio for the stent struts minimizes out of plane twisting of the struts or projecting edges of the struts when the stent is expanded from a compressed diameter to an expanded diameter in a coronary artery.
US08328857B2 Method for treating a patient having a spinal cord injury using phototherapy
A method of treating spinal cord injury (SCI) includes transcutaneously irradiating at least a portion of a spinal environment of the patient with light having a power density of at least about 0.01 mW/cm2 at the portion of the spinal environment.
US08328855B2 Osteosynthesis device with rapid fixing means
The invention relates to an osteosynthesis device having a plate (10) which includes a recess (12) which defines an inner edge (22) and receives ring (14) designed to receive the pin (20). According to the invention, the plate (10) has a threaded opening (26) on the edge of the recess (12), which opens into the inner edge (22), while the ring (14) is slit radially. The device includes a screw (32) that can be screwed through the threaded opening (26) so as to bear against the ring (14) and cause the ring (14) to bear with force against a portion of the inner edge (22) and tighten the ring (14) on the pin (20).
US08328853B2 Static compression device
A Static Compression Device (SC device) for active, measurable compression of a fusion graft by the surgeon at the time of surgery is disclosed. The SC device is attachable to adjacent vertebral bodies or other pieces of bone and has a device that applies compressive force to the adjacent vertebral bodies or pieces of bone to assist fusion according to Wolffs law. The SC device has a locking mechanism that maintains the compression applied at surgery, but prevents further compression (settling) from occurring after surgery. The SC device allows the surgeon the ability to compress a segment, measure the applied compression, and lock the segment in the compressed position. In one embodiment of the invention, the pressure is applied to the SC device through a compression device that applies a desired and measurable amount of force. In this embodiment, the combination of the SC device with a pressure applying and measuring device allows the surgeon more control over the force applied to a cervical, thoracic or lumbar implant than has previously been available. In the preferred embodiment, the SC device compresses two or more adjacent vertebrae across an adjacent bone graft to facilitate fusion of these vertebrae to treat pain produced by pressure from the disks between such vertebrae bulging and resulting in contact with and pressure on the spinal cord and adjacent nerve roots. In other embodiments, the SC device may be used to apply measurable compression across any type of bony interface (e.g. fractures) to facilitate union.
US08328847B2 Assemblies for provision of therapy to motion segments
Disclosed are methods and apparatus for the provision of spinal therapy to two or more adjacent motion segments accessed through a trans-sacral approach. The spinal therapies include fusion and dynamic stabilization with and without a distraction of the most cephalad motion segment of the two or more adjacent motion segments provided therapy. The disclosure includes methods and apparatus to impart a push distraction to increase the distance between two adjacent vertebrae. Related concepts for the extraction of previously inserted devices and the delivery and removal of plugs for plugging the interior cavities of implantable devices are disclosed.
US08328840B2 Methods and apparatus for rapid endovascular vessel occlusion and blood flow interruption
An occluding device including expandable scaffold and a flow-limiting member is described. In some embodiments the scaffold is an expandable or self-expanding stent deliverable over a guide wire. The flow-limiting member can include a valve that can be closed following deployment. On deployment the stent and flow-limiting member can engage an inner surface of a body cavity lumen, blocking flow of material. In some embodiments the body cavity is a blood vessel, and the device can be used to block blood flow. In some embodiments the device includes bioactive agents.
US08328838B2 Needle assembly for traditional oriental medicine
Provided is a needle assembly for use in oriental acupuncture. The needle assembly includes: a hollow tubular rod member; a pin member which is movably installed in the rod member and can be inserted into a person's skin; and a reuse preventing unit preventing the pin member, which is protruded from an end of the rod member and is inserted into the skin, from being protruded from the end of the rod member and inserted into the skin again.
US08328830B1 Ear cleaning device
An ear cleaning device that creates a negative pressure within the patient's ear to draw fluid thereinto and provide cleansing thereof so as to substantially reduce the risk of damage to the tympanic membrane. The ear cleaning device includes a first container and a second container mechanically operably coupled together and in general axial alignment. Additionally, an ear chamber is included that is operably intermediate the first container and the second container. The ear chamber further includes a membrane to create a hermetic seal around a patient's ear. The first container is configured to receive a store a desired cleaning fluid. Operably coupled to the second container is a pressure reducing device. The ear cleaning device utilizes a hermetic seal between the second container, ear chamber and first container to transport the fluid from the first container into the ear chamber wherein the fluid is introduced in the ear canal of the patient and is subsequently collected within the second container.
US08328827B2 Stapler for endoscopes
A stapling device for a surgical endoscopic device provided with at least one flexible portion. The stapling device has a staple-firing portion and an anvil portion. The staple firing portion and the anvil portion are located longitudinally displaced from one another along the longitudinal axis of the endoscopic device, with at least a part of the flexible portion between them. The parts of the stapling device are in correct working relationship when one or more alignment and/or locking pins or screws that are stored in either of the staple firing portion or the anvil portion are extended and engage and lock or screw into receptacles that have been provided on the other of the staple firing portion or of the anvil portion.
US08328826B2 Precursor of a tissue regenerating instrument provided with a swellable rod
The present invention provides a precursor for producing a tissue regenerating instrument that regenerates a tissue, including: a tube made of a biodegradable material provided with a lumen in a longitudinal direction; a rod made of a biodegradable material swellable with a softening solvent, fixed to an inner wall of the tube substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the tube; and an adhesive that fixes the rod to the inner wall of the tube, in which the rod in a non-swelled state has an occupied cross-sectional area perpendicular to the longitudinal direction that is smaller than a cross-sectional area of the lumen of the tube, and the occupied cross-sectional area perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the rod in a saturated swelled state with the softening solvent is substantially the same as the cross-sectional area of the lumen of the tube.
US08328823B2 Powered tacker instrument
There is provided a powered tacker device for use in installing multiple surgical fasteners through a prosthetic mesh into tissue. The powered tacker device generally includes a handle assembly and a tacker assembly extending distally from the handle assembly. The handle assembly includes a motor and self-contained power assembly to rotate the surgical fasteners into tissue. The handle assembly is provided with a drive assembly which allows for rotation, as well as distal longitudinal movement, of a surgical fastener relative to the powered tacker device. The tacker assembly includes an inner tube for containing the plurality of surgical fasteners and a driver which is movable out of alignment with the inner tube so as to install a single fastener at a time into tissue.
US08328818B1 Devices and methods for treating bone
A device is disclosed for reducing a vertebral compression fracture, comprising a superior end plate and an inferior end plate disposed along a vertical axis. The superior end plate and the inferior end plate are slidably separable in a vertical direction along the vertical axis. An interior chamber is provided in fluid communication with a port extending from an exterior to the interior chamber. The device is deployable within a vertebral body and expandable within the vertebral body by injecting a flowable material into the interior chamber thereby displacing the superior and inferior end plates along the vertical axis.
US08328814B2 Surgical guiding instrument
A surgical guiding instrument for a surgical machining tool has a substantially elongated instrument body having a proximal end and a distal end and defining a longitudinal axis. The instrument body carries a guiding device for the machining tool that can be used in minimally invasive surgery. The guiding device is arranged and constructed so as to enable the machining tool to be positively guided by it along a path of movement defined by the guiding device. The path of movement corresponds to a superimposed translational-pivotal movement.
US08328803B2 Polyp removal device and method of use
A device and system for removing tissue such as polyps is provided and includes a tubular member having proximal and distal ends, a snare portion operably extending from within the distal end of the tubular member and including first and second electrodes configured to treat tissue therebetween, the snare portion further including a cutting member for severing the treated tissue. The tissue removal device may further include a handle portion operatively extending from within the proximal end of the tubular member. The handle portion may be configured for operable engagement by a user and the cutting member may extend between distal ends of the first and second electrodes.
US08328793B2 Device, system and method for integrating different medically applicable apparatuses
A device for coupling at least two medically applicable instruments, which are coupled to at least two control apparatuses, includes a central control unit coupled to input and/or output connections of said at least two control apparatuses. The central control unit includes at least one processor that receives output signals from the at least two control apparatuses and converts the output signals into a unified format. At least one processor receives inputted control signals, converts the control signals into formats corresponding to the respective at least two control apparatuses, and transfers the converted control signals to the at least two control apparatuses to control the at least two medically applicable instruments.
US08328783B2 Drug container and multilayer film
A drug container of a multilayer film including a first layer (1) composed of a linear ethylene/α-olefin copolymer having a density of 0.930 to 0.950 g/cm3, a second layer (2) and a fourth layer (4) each composed of a mixture containing a linear ethylene/α-olefin copolymer having a density of 0.860 to 0.920 g/cm3 in a weight ratio of 95:5 to 40:60, a third layer (3) composed of a polycycloolefin, and a fifth layer (5) composed of a mixture containing a polyethylene and a polypropylene, the fifth layer 5 serving as an innermost layer.
US08328779B2 Locating flange for a two-piece ostomy adhesive mount
A mounting assembly for an ostomy pouch. The assembly includes a body flange having an adhesive coating on one side adapted to be adhered to the peristomal skin surface of an osteomate. Diametrically opposed loops project from the edge of the flange and form pockets. Also included is an ostomy pouch having a stoma receiving opening surrounded by a stiffly flexible ring having diametrically opposed loops that cooperate with the pockets on the flange loops. An adhesive coating is provided on the flexible ring and there is a mechanical interlock between the ring and flange. When the loops on the flexible ring are aligned with the pockets on the flange the flange and ring may be adhesively interlocked to attach the pouch to the body flange.
US08328777B2 Umbilical cord cell harvesting
An apparatus and method are provided for harvesting biological material from an umbilical cord. A drain functions to drain the material from the umbilical cord. The apparatus includes a seal member for sealing an open end of an umbilical cord with the drain. A support is provided to support the seal member. An actuator is provided to adjust the engagement of the seal member with the umbilical cord. Moving the actuator relative to the support allows the seal member to twist about the umbilical cord to seal against the umbilical cord to effect drainage of material from the umbilical cord to the drain without leakage.
US08328775B2 Metered drop bottle for dispensing microliter amounts of a liquid in the form of a drop
The present invention relates to a metered drop bottle for dispensing microliter amounts of a liquid in the form of a drop comprising: (a) a bottle with a flexible portion on the walls to decrease the internal volume by a fixed volume; (b) a plunger with a fixed stroke for depressing the flexible portion of the walls of the bottle; and (c) a nozzle tip having an internal and/or outer diameter no more than 1.2 mm.
US08328774B2 Vision corrective jig and cooling fluid injection tool for the jig
A jig and a cooling fluid injection tool are provided for use in the correction of corneal shape of an eyeball. Correction of the eyeball takes place while the cornea is warmed. The jig includes a shape retention part of a sucking disc configuration having an inner surface side that contacts the eyeball and a grip part formed on an outer surface side of the shape retention part. An inner surface-sided cornea contacting section of the shape retention part is flattened and a cooling fluid injection hole passing through the grip part is formed in the center of the shape retention part with a diameter large enough for a wearer to see outside.
US08328772B2 Needle for penetrating a membrane
A needle 1 for penetrating a membrane 2, having a pointed end 3 provided with a penetrating tip 4 and with an opening 6 for letting a liquid in and/or out in a main direction 7 which is substantially parallel to the longitudinal extension of the needle 1. The penetrating tip 4 is designed with a substantially point-shaped edge 8 to initially prick the membrane when the membrane is penetrated. The outer edges 19 present on the pointed end 3 in the area from the point-shaped edge 8 to a position beyond the opening 6 are rounded so that after the initial penetration the pointed end 3 will push the membrane material away rather than cutting the membrane material.
US08328767B2 Disinfecting caps for medical male luer connectors
Caps can be used to cover and disinfect a male protrusion portion of a medical connector. Some caps can create a seal with the male protrusion to prevent antiseptic from entering a lumen the protrusion. A biasing element can aid in creating or maintaining the seal.
US08328765B2 Automatic needle device
An automatic needle device including a housing element, at least one resilient element arranged to be located within the housing element, at least one needle bearing element adapted, when actuated, to be displaced by the at least one resilient element with respect to the housing element from a non-penetration position to a penetration position and a needle guard adapted for positioning with respect to the housing element and wherein displacement of the needle guard is operative to actuate displacement of the at least one needle bearing element from the non-penetration position to the penetration position.
US08328752B2 Devices, systems, and methods for promotion of infarct healing and reinforcement of border zone
Various embodiments of devices useful to provide access to the tissues surrounding the heart to facilitate myocardial infarct healing are disclosed herein. In at least one embodiment, a suction/infusion catheter is used to provide localized suction to an area of myocardial infarct. In another embodiment, a system comprising a suction/infusion catheter is used to provide localized suction to an area of myocardial infarct.
US08328750B2 Removable multiple panel assembly with blood supply and fluid tubing for hemofiltration apparatus
A panel assembly for being manually mounted on a blood therapy apparatus is characterized by three panels, a center panel configured for manually securing a hemofilter cartridge and opposite side panels, hingedly connected to the center panel. The side panels have generally flat, planar interior surfaces defined by a rim extending around its perimeter. Tubing is secured along and adjacent to the interior panel surfaces, which are also provided with tubing supports having slanted tubing channels for supporting arched pump rotor engaging tubing sections and prevent tubing droop.
US08328749B2 Blood purification apparatus and method for calculating a recirculation rate for the blood purification apparatus
A blood purification apparatus includes a blood circuit having arterial and venous blood circuits, a blood pump, a blood purifying device, an indicator applying device that applies a predetermined indicator to the blood flowing extracorporeally through the blood circuit, a detecting device that detects the indicator applied by the indicator applying device, an arithmetic device that calculates, based on the indicator detected by the detecting device, a recirculation rate, and a calculating device that calculates an ideal extracorporeally circulating blood flow that results in the recirculation rate being no more than a predetermined value when the recirculation rate calculated by the arithmetic device is greater than the predetermined value. The recirculation rate is a proportion of a recirculated blood flow, which is reintroduced to the patient from the venous blood circuit and directed again to the arterial blood circuit, relative to an extracorporeally circulating blood flow.
US08328745B2 Leg support
A leg support adapted to be secured to a leg includes an elongate strut having first and second segments, and a flexible middle segment located therebetween. The strut is arranged for securing to a posterior side of a leg and is centrally located along a medial-lateral plane of a leg. A resilient element is removably secured to a first surface of the strut, and extends across the middle strut segment. The middle strut segment and the resilient device are arranged to correspond to a knee of a leg and bend therewith such that the resilient device urges the strut into a generally upright configuration.
US08328739B2 Coil system and method for obtaining volumetric physiological measurements
A coil device is provided having a member adapted to extend around and conform to an outer surface of a subject and a conductor adapted to extend only once around a first portion of the subject. The coil device cats be positioned about the subject in order to measure a volume of the subject. When placed about the subject in the presence of a relatively homogeneous magnetic field, the conductor can generate a signal indicative of a volume of the first portion of the subject. The coil device may also include two or more conductors separately generating signals indicating volumes of two or more corresponding portions of the subject. In sonic cases the coil device includes associated authorization data that can limit use of the coil device. Systems and methods incorporating the coil device are also provided.
US08328722B2 Method for aesthetically treating cellulite skin by lipotomy, and device for implementing said method
The invention relates to a method for aesthetically treating cellulite skin by lipotomy, and to a device for implementing said method.
US08328717B2 Seal device with adjustable aperture
A seal device comprising: a seal housing defining a central axis, the seal housing having an inner wall and an outer wall, the inner wall defining an opening along the central axis; a rotatable head mounted to the seal housing; at least one finger pivotally mounted to the rotatable head, the fingers defining an aperture for reception of a surgical instrument; and a cam mounted to the rotatable head for pivoting the fingers upon rotation of the rotatable head, the at least one finger configured to reduce the amount by which the surgical instrument may be moved off-axis relative to the central axis.
US08328713B2 Capsule medical device, method for operating the same, and capsule medical device system
The required minimum amount of examination site information is acquired, stored, or transmitted without missing an affected area, thus reducing power consumption, reducing the size of a battery disposed in a capsule, and reducing the size of a casing. Provided is a capsule medical device including a casing having a capsule shape; a light-detecting section, disposed in the casing, for detecting information about the intensity of light from outside the casing; an information-acquiring section for acquiring examination site information from an examination site positioned outside the casing; and a determination section for determining whether or not to acquire, store, or transmit, to the outside, the examination site information acquired by the information-acquiring section on the basis of the information about the intensity of the light detected by the light-detecting section.
US08328698B1 Exercise bar assembly for dual action weightlifting machine
A dual action weightlifting machine has a stationary frame including a racking portion and spaced vertical guides slidably mounted on opposite sides of the frame for horizontal movement relative to the frame. A horizontally extending exercise bar assembly has spaced first and second vertical slides slidably mounted on the vertical guides, at least one rotatable user engaging portion for gripping by a user, at least one rack engaging portion comprising a rotatable wear sleeve which rotates independently from the user engaging portion, and opposite first and second end portions for receiving one or more selected weights. The user engaging portion is located between the opposite sides of the frame and has a central longitudinal axis which is coaxial with the cylindrical surfaces of the wear sleeves.
US08328692B2 Self-generating resistance apparatus for fitness and rehabilitation equipments
A self-generating resistance apparatus for fitness and rehabilitation equipments comprises a bracket, a flywheel, a power generator, a belt and a resistance mechanism. The flywheel is rotating mechanism that provides inertia, and has a transmission shaft coupled to the power source of the fitness or rehabilitation equipment, and an external ring coupled to a pulley of the power generator by a belt. When a user steps on an exercise mechanism of the equipment, the flywheel drives the power generator to rotate and generate electric current. Since the power generator is installed outside the flywheel, the difference between the diameters of the pulley and the external ring causes a very large rotating speed ratio, and a large power approaching to the power generated by a large power generator can be produced.
US08328691B2 Feedback device for guiding and supervising physical excercises
A feedback device for guiding and supervising physical exercises includes a compuputer devide having a CPU and a memory, a mirror display device includes a display device having a reflective surface, and position-sensing device for a person disposed before the device.
US08328687B2 Method for controlling an engine that may be automatically stopped
A method for improving starting of an engine that may be repeatedly stopped and started is presented. In one embodiment, the method adjusts a transmission tie-up force in response to engine starting. The method may improve vehicle launch for stop/start vehicles.
US08328676B2 Power split transmission
A power split transmission for a working machine, such as a wheel loader, having a continuously variable power branch and a mechanical power branch that are summed with one another via a summing gear (13). The summing gear (13) can be connected, via a clutch for forward drive (4) and a clutch for reverse drive (8), to an input drive. The power split transmission has shafts (2, 7; 32, 33) and only a single clutch is located on each shaft.
US08328675B2 Power pivot device for a plow
A pivot assembly for a plow may include first and second subassemblies. The first subassembly may be adapted to be coupled to a frame member and rotationally fixed relative thereto. The first subassembly may include a latch mechanism displaceable between locked and unlocked positions. The second subassembly may be adapted to be coupled to the frame member and may be rotatable relative thereto. The second subassembly may include a power pivot assembly and a cam member. The power pivot assembly may be drivingly engaged with the cam member and operable to rotate the cam member in a first rotational direction to a first position where the cam member urges the latch mechanism into the unlocked position.
US08328673B2 Variable speed accessory drive system
The present invention provides an accessory drive system for a vehicle. The accessory drive system includes a planetary gear set having a first, second, and third planetary member. A torque transfer device operatively connects an engine with the first planetary member. A motor/generator is operatively connected to the second planetary member, and a plurality of accessories are operatively connected to the third planetary member. Engine output is transferable through the planetary gear set to drive the accessories, and the speed at which the accessories are driven is selectable by controlling the speed of the motor/generator.
US08328672B2 Power unit
A power unit includes: a differential gear (21) in which a first rotating element (21r) is connected to an output shaft of a prime mover (2), a second rotating element (21s) is connected to a body of rotation of a rotary actuator (3), and a third rotating element (21c) is connected to a driven unit (4) via a first power transmission path (22); a first power transmission system (34, 36, 37) selectively operable between an operating state for enabling power transmission in the first power transmission path (22) and an operating state for disconnecting the power transmission; a second power transmission path (23) connecting between the output shaft of the prime mover (2) and the driven unit (4); and a second power transmission system (32) selectively operable between an operating state for enabling power transmission in the second power transmission path and an operating state for disconnecting the power transmission, wherein an auxiliary device (5) is connected to one of the second rotating element (21s) and the third rotating element (21c) of the differential gear (21).
US08328666B2 Fiber composite and process of manufacture
The inventive fiber manufacturing process is particularly adapted for demanding applications such as sports racquets, including tennis racquets, badminton racquets and other sports applications. Because of the improved strength to weight ratio of components formed using the inventive method, a wide range of flexibility is achieved, allowing use of the inventive process to manufacture, for example, a fiber reinforced (for example, graphite) modular sports racquet, optionally provided with user-selectable weights and/or handle replacements. From the standpoint of the player, this allows a racquet frame featuring self customization. From the standpoint of a retailer, the benefit provided is reduction of inventory. The inventive fiber, for example graphite fiber) racquet frame is filled with a plastic foam and is formed using, for example, microencapsulation technology to time, generate and apply the pressure used to form the graphite composite material of which the racquet is comprised. Advantageously, inner and outer tubular members may be used to form the racquet frame, with the inner tubular member extending around the head of the racquet frame. This compares to the standard industry technique of air injection. The racquet is thus not hollow like conventional graphite racquets, and the walls therefore can be made thinner than those of existing graphite racquets still being of the same strength or being stronger, which gives the racquet exceptional performance. In addition, the overall dimensions of, for example the cross-section, of the racquet can also be reduced while still maintaining performance characteristics.
US08328665B2 Combination pitching aid and batting tee
Described herein is a combination pitching aid and batting tee apparatus. The apparatus includes a base having a front and a rear, a stand extending upwardly from the base, a support rod extending upwardly from the stand, and an arm extending outwardly from the support rod. The arm includes a target associated therewith that can be adjusted vertically and horizontally. The apparatus includes a screen having a top end and a bottom end and a support assembly having a top end and a bottom end that extends upwardly from the base. The bottom end of the screen is attached near the front of the base and the top end of the screen is attached to the support assembly. The support rod can be replaced with a batting tee.
US08328662B2 Golf club head
A head 2 has a face line 8 having a depth of D1 (mm). When a boundary between a land area and a face line is defined as a point Pa; a point of which a depth is [D1/4] (mm) is defined as a point Pb; a point of which a depth is [D1/2] (mm) is defined as a point Pc; a point of which a depth is [(D1)×(¾)] (mm) is defined as a point Pd; a point of which a depth is 0.002 (mm) is defined as a point Px; a radius of a circle CL1 passing through three points of the point Pa, the point Pb, and the point Pc is defined as R3 (mm); a straight line passing through the point Pa and the point Px is defined as a straight line Lax; and an angle between the land area and the straight line Lax is defined as θ2 (degree), the radius R3 is 0.2 (mm) or greater and 0.4 (mm) or less, and the angle θ2 is 10 degrees or greater and 50 degrees or less.
US08328657B1 Golf club shaft
An adjustable length golf club including an engaging mechanism, a rotational shaft, a locking mechanism, and a lower shaft. The rotational shaft is connected with the engaging mechanism and is configured to rotate upon movement by the engaging mechanism. The locking mechanism is connected with the rotational shaft and includes a locking insert and a locking collar located on the locking insert. The locking insert being is configured to retain the locking collar during axial movement. The lower shaft has an inner surface that is in frictional contact with the locking collar. The locking insert is threadingly engaged with the locking collar and a first rotational movement in a first rotational direction by the rotational shaft causes the locking insert to move the locking collar creating a frictional locking engagement between the locking collar and the inner surface of the lower shaft.
US08328655B1 Golf training tool
A golf training aid having an alignment rod rotatably mounted to an elongated rail. The rail is pointed directly at the target while the rod is rotated and positioned along the rail pointing directly to the ball.
US08328652B1 Cue tip chalk block saver
A portable apparatus for boring a dimple within a block of cue tip chalk. The apparatus includes a platform having an opening fully protruding therethrough. The apparatus also includes a column having an upper end and a lower end. The lower end includes a blade. The column is disposed within the opening substantially perpendicular to the platform. Upon application of a force on the upper end, the column moves with respect to the platform in a direction substantially perpendicular to the platform. The blade is configured to bore the dimple. The column is coupled to a spring biased to maintain the column in a position the column was in prior to the application of the force. The apparatus further includes a means for controlling an extent of movement of the column in the direction.
US08328650B2 Constant velocity universal joint
A constant velocity universal joint has improved sealability of the boot thereof and facilitates the positioning of the end sections of the boot in the axial direction at low cost while ensuring the strength of the outer race thereof. Protruding sections having a pointed shape at the tip ends thereof and having a triangular shape in cross section are provided on the inner peripheral surfaces of the large-diameter end section and the small-diameter end section of a boot. Sealing sections are respectively disposed annularly on the inner peripheral surfaces of the large-diameter end section and the small-diameter end section on the portions equally distant from the protruding sections on both sides thereof in the axial direction.
US08328648B2 Cardan joint assembly and a cardan joint protector device
A cardan joint assembly and a cardan joint protector device are provided. The device includes a U-shaped bracket having an arcuate-shaped portion and first and second end portions extending from opposite ends of the arcuate-shaped portion. The first and second end portions have first and second apertures, respectively, extending therethrough. The device further includes a first elongated plate portion extending from the first end portion of the U-shaped bracket and further extending generally outwardly relative to a longitudinal axis. The first elongated plate portion at least partially covers a needle bearing of a cardan joint. The device further includes an attachment portion attached to a top edge of the first elongated plate portion that has a distal end that is disposed in a groove of a gear clamp yoke of the cardan joint.
US08328642B2 Game based incentives for commerce
The present disclosure generally relates to systems and methods directed to generating game-based incentives for users of online games to purchase goods in an electronic commerce system.
US08328635B2 System and method for rewarding players based on personal interests or attributes
A system and method for rewarding players of wagering game with a bonus is disclosed. A database is provided for collecting and storing personal interest information from two or more players. The database comprises data fields each representing a category of personal interest information. A player tracking server is utilized to monitor the player's gaming activity. A bonus server operates in conjunction with the gaming server to determine when a bonus is to be awarded to one or more players. A player qualifies for a share of the bonus based on the common personal interest information as compared to the player that triggered the bonus award. The bonus may be shared equally or unequally by players who qualify to receive the bonus.
US08328633B2 Gaming system and method for normalizing average expected payouts to players
The gaming system disclosed herein accounts for game play over a gaming session in determining a bonus game attribute for a triggered bonus game. The gaming system maintains a plurality of different bonus game attributes. Each different bonus game attribute is associated with a different bonus game attribute modification event and an initial probability of that bonus game attribute being selected for a play of a bonus game. For each bonus game attribute modification event that occurs, the gaming system modifies the probability that the associated bonus game attribute will be selected for a play of a bonus game. Upon an occurrence of a bonus game triggering event, the gaming system randomly selects one of the maintained bonus game attributes. The gaming system then displays a bonus game and determines a bonus game award utilizing the selected bonus game attribute.
US08328619B2 Gaming system having large display and plural gaming machines
The gaming system of the present invention comprises: a plurality of gaming machines; a single pedestal having an installation surface for installing the gaming machines; a supporting member provided such that a first end thereof is supported by the pedestal and the second end thereof is oriented upwardly; a common image display having an internal space inside thereof, having openings communicated with external air respectively at an upper portion and a bottom portion thereof, and being supported by the second end side of the supporting member.
US08328607B2 Enhanced piccolo ducting with sidewall air outlets
A system for ventilating an aircraft cabin includes an air supply pipe connected to an air source, and a plurality of air distribution lines branching off from the air supply pipe. In a first operating state, the ventilating system is adapted to blow out the air, flowing through the air supply pipe, directly from the air distribution lines into the aircraft cabin. In contrast, in a second operating state of the ventilating system, at least some of the air distribution lines are connected to connecting lines which supply the air, flowing through the air supply pipe, to air outlets arranged in a distributed manner in the aircraft cabin.
US08328601B2 Apparatus for grinding heated plane of cooler
A method for making heated plane of a cooler to obtain better flatness and roughness includes a grinder with a grinding plate and a fixture. Then, the cooler is arranged onto the fixture. Next, the abrasive is injected into the gap between the grinding plate and the heated plane, making the fixture press and clamp the cooler in a way, such that the heated plane of the cooler contacts the abrasive closely. Finally, the grinding plate is rotated to make at least one grinding process to the heated plane, making the heated plane obtain a surface with better roughness and flatness, further enhancing the contact tightness between the heated plane and a heating element, and therefore promoting the thermally conductive efficiency between the cooler and the heating element.
US08328599B2 Internal rotation type direct motor-drive portable angle grinder
The present invention relates to an internal rotation type direct motor-drive portable angle grinder. By means of the direct drive, the present invention prevents the emission of noise made by angle type transmission devices; and/or an inertial body is installed on the motor rotating part to form a flywheel to improve the grinding, polishing and machining or cutting abilities of the grinding wheel; and/or a motor is established to be open or semi-hermetic for the space from the interior to a housing and/or a handle of the motor to improve the effect of heat dissipation outward.
US08328597B2 Nursing bra
The present invention provides a nursing bra having first and second breast cup members attached to a chest strap assembly. The strap assembly includes a primary band assembly for securing said nursing bra to a user's upper chest and a separate secondary band assembly coupled to each first and second breast cup. The separate secondary band assembly is configured and operable to provide slidable movement of each of the first and second breast cups relative to the primary band assembly for uncovering a breast during a nursing application.
US08328596B2 Pop-up play set
A play set having a main panel section and a pair of side panel sections, each of which is pivotably connected to tile side lateral edges of the main panel section. When the play set is in a first orientation, the main panel section and the pair of side panel sections are oriented generally co-planar to each other such that the upper main surface and upper side surfaces define a play surface having a perimeter, and when the play set is in a second orientation, the side panel sections are adjacent each other and in a plane parallel to the main panel section to define a play set case. When in the first orientation, one of the panel sections includes an elongated member extendable therefrom in a telescoping manner to define an additional play surface outside the perimeter of the main panel sections and side panel sections.
US08328593B2 Low-drag fin and foil system for surfboards
The present invention is a Low-Drag Fin and Foil System for Surfboards (10), particularly including cambered fin foils (40; 42). The invention (10) also discloses low-drag, directionally unstable fin positions wherein the lesser of negative angle of attack of a trailing fin (50), versus the higher or positive angle of attack of a forward fin (48), makes the board (12) highly maneuverable by creating a yawing moment that aids the rotation of the board (12) as it is turned. The system particularly utilizes fins (40) having foil (42) shapes in which either the cambered side (74) or the non-cambered side (76) is provided with a combination of a convex curvature (68) and a concave curvature (70) to result in an oscillating curvature (72) which has a positive effect on control and acceleration.
US08328588B2 Screwless connection terminal
A screwless connection terminal with a contact element to which a conductor is to be electrically connected, the contact element comprising a connecting section and a contact surface, with a clamp spring by means of which the conductor is to be clamped to the contact surface of the contact element, wherein the clamp spring has a clamping leg, an abutting leg and a tensioning leg, wherein a clamp opening is formed in the clamping leg, through which clamp opening, the conductor is to be led, wherein the abutting leg of the clamp spring abuts on the contact element, and the tensioning leg of the clamp spring connects the abutting leg to the clamping leg, wherein the clamping leg further comprises a conductor clamp extension with a clamping face which is aligned substantially parallel to the contact surface of the contact element.
US08328583B2 Power connector
A power connector includes an insulative housing, a number of contacts retained in the insulative housing and a spacer fixed to the insulative housing. The insulative housing includes a mating surface, an end surface opposite to the mating surface and a plurality of passageways extending through the mating and the end surfaces. A depression and a cavity are recessed into the insulative housing from the mating surface and the end surface, respectively. Each contact includes a main portion received in corresponding passageway and a tail portion located in the cavity in condition that at least one side wall of the tail portion is exposed to the air for excellent heat dissipation.
US08328581B2 In-line fused connector
An in-line fused connector includes an outer housing and a fuse subassembly disposed in the outer housing. The fuse subassembly includes a mating terminal that is configured to engage a first conductive body of the power distribution module and an internal terminal coupled with the fused conductor that electrically couples with an electronic device. The mating terminal and the internal terminal are shaped to receive a fuse to electrically couple the mating terminal and the internal terminal. Electric current that is supplied by the power distribution module is conveyed through the fuse subassembly when the fuse subassembly receives the fuse and the mating terminal of the fuse subassembly mates with the first conductive body of the power distribution module through an opening in the front end of the housing. The fuse is removable from the fuse subassembly through the front end.
US08328567B1 Card edge connector and assembly including the same
A card edge connector includes a dielectric housing having an end portion configured to receive a latch/eject member for ejecting and latching a card module in a pivot manner. The latch/eject member includes a lower end surface, which is located outside the dielectric housing when the latch/eject member is in the locking position.
US08328555B2 Implant
An implant for anchoring a tightly fitting prosthesis includes an externally threaded implant body configured to be screwed into bone using an insertion tool, the body having a first end and a second apex end, said first end being provided with an internal open ended axial bore, the implant being tapered such that the apex end is smaller in diameter than the first end where the taper is not greater than 2°. The implant is also provided with an incremental cutting face.
US08328545B2 Scroll fluid machine with stabilized orbiting scroll
A scroll fluid machine comprises a fixed-side member including a cylindrical casing and a fixed scroll fixed to the casing, and an orbiting scroll and a plurality of ball coupling devices provided between the fixed-side member and the orbiting scroll to prevent self-rotation of the orbiting scroll on its axis and receive a thrust load between the fixed-side member and the orbiting scroll. Each of the ball coupling devices comprises a first ball coupling mechanism for supporting the thrust load generated between the fixed-side member and the orbiting scroll and a second ball coupling mechanism disposed with a space from the first ball coupling mechanism to prevent the self-rotation of the orbiting scroll.
US08328541B2 Displacement conversion mechanism and actuator
A mechanism converts rotational displacement to linear displacement with ramped driver discoidal elements and ramped driven discoidal elements on a common central axis. The ramped surfaces of the two elements are complementarily shaped and opposed so that, when in contact and completely interengaged, they form an assembly of minimum length. The driver elements are rotated by an external force. The driven elements are allowed to translate along the common axis while being prevented from rotating about the common axis, whereby a rotational displacement of the driver elements by an externally applied force causes the elements to separate by camming action of the interengaged ramp surfaces to produce a linear displacement of the driven elements. A spring is coupled to the driven elements so as to restore the assembly to its minimum length in the absence of the externally applied force.
US08328539B2 Submersible pump motor protector
According to one or more aspects of the present disclosure, a motor protector comprises a housing defining a compensator chamber; a compensator disposed in the housing having a motor fluid end in fluid communication with a motor fluid and a well fluid end, the compensator axially moveable relative to the housing in response to the expansion and contraction of the motor fluid; and a port formed through the housing to provide fluid communication from exterior of the housing to the well fluid end of the compensator. The compensator may be one selected from the group of a bellows and a plunger.
US08328537B2 Pumping unit for enteral or parenteral nutrition or perfusion
A single-use pumping casing (A) includes an inlet duct (6), a delivery duct (7) and a alternating-movement pumping member (1a), and a driving mechanism including a member (4) for driving the pumping member (1a) in at least one of the alternating movements thereof. The driving mechanism is housed in a holder housing (B) having a wall with a retaining slideway (19) for engaging sliding members of the pumping casing (A), the housing further including a passage opening (21) for the driving member (4), an abutment (20) for determining the position of the pumping casing (A) along the retaining slideway (19) and for placing the pumping member (1a) into a drive relation with the driving member (4), and a removable attachment (19, 20) for attaching the pumping casing (A) in the determined position along the retaining slideway (19).
US08328533B2 Heat dissipation fan
A heat dissipation fan includes a base with a plurality of holes defined therein, a stator mounted on the base and being placed around the holes of the base, and an impeller rotatably attached to the base. The impeller includes a hub and a plurality of blades, the hub includes a top wall with a plurality of holes defined therein and an annular wall depending from the top wall. The blades are arranged around the annular wall of the hub. An axial air passage is defined in the stator. The holes of the base communicate with the holes of the top wall via the air passage.
US08328524B2 Air compressor and method for controlling the same
An air compressor includes: a tank portion for reserving compressed air used in a pneumatic tool; a compressed air generation portion for generating compressed air and supplying the compressed air to the tank portion; a drive portion including a motor for driving the compressed air generation portion; a control circuit portion for controlling the drive portion; and a pressure sensor for detecting pressure of the compressed air reserved in the tank portion. The control circuit portion includes a unit for controlling the rotational speed of the motor multistageously based on a detection signal output from the pressure sensor.
US08328515B2 Wind power device
An improved wind-powered generator, comprising a wind wheel with semi-flexible sails, a supporting tower that can rotate freely with the wind direction, a fairing that ensures the wind wheel is always downwind of the tower, energy generators affixed to the upper tower and mechanically coupled to the rim of the wind wheel, and a controller that changes the angle of attack of the wings.
US08328511B2 Prechorded turbine nozzle
A turbine nozzle includes radially inner and outer bands integrally joined to opposite ends of an airfoil. The outer band has forward and aft hooks extending radially outwardly at axially opposite ends. And the hooks have different prechorded circumferential curvatures.
US08328506B2 Optimized turbocharger bearing system
A turbocharger system, in certain embodiments, includes a compressor, a turbine, a shaft of common diameter coupling the compressor to the turbine, and a first fluid film bearing disposed about the shaft at a compressor end portion of the shaft. The system also includes a second fluid film fixed pad bearing disposed about the shaft at a turbine end portion of the shaft, wherein the first and second fluid film fixed pad bearings have different clearance ratios, effective lengths, or both, relative to one another. The system, in some embodiments, includes a compressor fluid film fixed pad bearing and a turbine fluid film fixed pad bearing, wherein the compressor and turbine fluid film fixed pad bearings have different clearance ratios and effective lengths, relative to one another.
US08328489B2 Self-pierce rivets and an adjustable strap handle
An adjustable strap handle that can be used in connection with a packaging frame. The strap handle provides not only that the effective length of the strap is adjustable, but also provides that no tool needs to be used to install the strap. Additionally, a dual head self-pierce rivet is described that can be used in connection with a packaging frame, specifically to secure cardboard edge pieces to thin sheet metal or cardboard corner pieces and provide structure with which strap handles can engage. The dual head self-pierce rivet has a shank and a poke at its end. The poke is configured to pierce through the cardboard edge pieces of a cube frame, advance into the edge pieces, and flare into a profiled anvil. While a lower head of the rivet seats against the cardboard, an upper head contains and holds a strap handle in a ring groove.
US08328488B2 Stud retainer apparatus
A connector assembly configured to secure at least one component to a structure may include a base, at least one member configured to receive and retain a portion of a component, and a stud retainer extending from the base. The stud retainer may include first and second engaging legs within a retaining chamber. The first and second engaging legs are configured to automatically align the stud retainer with respect to a stud that passes into the retaining chamber.
US08328485B2 Functional element, a component assembly consisting of a functional element and a sheet metal part and also a method for the attachment of the functional element to a sheet metal part
A functional element having a functional portion, a generally tubular rivet portion and a ring-like sheet metal contact surface is characterized in that features of shape are provided at the rivet portion for co-movement of the sheet metal part during the formation of the rivet bead, in particular at the free end of the rivet portion and/or at the radially outer side of the rivet portion, at least in the region adjacent the free end of the rivet portion. A component assembly comprising a functional element and a sheet metal part as well as a method for the attachment of a functional element to the sheet metal part are also claimed.
US08328478B2 Gantry pallet
The gantry pallet and allweather cover described includes, in its preferred embodiment, many improvements over the currently applied methods of storing, transporting and shipping the U.S. Navy's steam tube Gantry Cranes and accompanying appurtenances. Further included are lifting plates for safely lifting and/or handling and/or safely transporting the gantry pallet and allweather cover by a variety of methods. Another improvement is a provision for ridged, moisture barrier, non-corrosive cover that attaches to and seals against the gantry pallet frame. Another improvement involves a provision for on and off loading that allows substantial improvement in the speed of set-up and the safety in which, but not limited to, the U.S. Navy steam tube Gantry Cranes and accompanying appurtenances is applied to an aircraft carrier's catapult steam tubes. This invention will reduce the man hours needed to set-up, remove and install an aircraft carriers catapults steam tubes while protecting the gantry crane from the elements thus prolonging the life of the gantry crane and accompanying appurtenances.
US08328469B1 Method and apparatus for rainwater remediation on outdoor playing field surfaces
A method of remediation of an athletic field playing surface after a rainfall is disclosed. The method includes the steps of providing a quantity of water absorbing polyacrylate polymer such as potassium polyacrylate, spreading the water absorbing polyacrylate polymer over an area of athletic field playing surface where rainwater has fallen or collected, allowing time for the water absorbing polyacrylate polymer to absorb the rainwater and produce a gel from the combination of the rainwater with the water absorbing polyacrylate polymer, then removing the gel so produced from the athletic field playing surface. The gel or remnants of the gel so produced may also be raked into the dirt of the athletic field.
US08328465B2 Offshore petroleum discharge system
A method and associated vessel for transferring liquids from offshore tankers to an onshore storage facility. The system utilizes a flexible pipe that is heavier than the water it displaces, such that the flexible pipe sinks to the sea floor even when empty. The high weight and relatively small profile of the flexible pipe avoids the need for anchoring the pipe to the sea floor. The flexible pipe has a bending radius of no greater than five feet, such that it can be wound onto spools onboard the vessel, and can be rapidly deployed, retrieved, and reused in another location. The vessel containing the spools of flexible pipe is dynamic positioning capable, and contains the equipment required to establish a position onshore to receive the liquid being transferred; means to deploy, retrieve, and repair the flexible pipe; and means to receive liquid from a tanker vessel and pump that liquid through the flexible pipe to the onshore storage facility.
US08328463B2 Reflective road marker
An embedded-type reflective road marker (1) which includes a base (2) and a reflector (3) for reflecting light cast onto the marker. The reflector (1) is detachably connected or secured, in use, to the base (2) by a connector (4) having release means (40) for facilitating removal of the reflector (3) from the base (2).
US08328456B2 Fastening system for fixing and/or aligning at least one sensor element
A fastening system for fixing and/or aligning at least one sensor element, in particular an active infrared sensor or the accessory parts thereof, such as printed circuit boards, controls, energy sources etc., in a rail element with at least one fastening element, characterized in that the fastening element can be plugged from a front side into the rail element at any desired position. The object is further achieved by providing a fastening system for fixing and/or aligning at least one sensor element, in particular an active infrared sensor or the accessory parts thereof, such as printed circuit boards, controls, energy sources etc., in a rail element with at least one fastening element, characterized in that at least one sensor element and/or the accessory part thereof can be inserted into at least one fastening element in a fashion capable of being re-released and of being aligned with regard to its inclination and the like.
US08328449B2 Click pen applicator device and method of using same
A click pen applicator device that provides predetermined dosing of the formulation for precise application, and rapidly primes the formulation using the dosing click mechanism to prepare the applicator for use.
US08328435B2 Printed circuit board positioning spacers in an optoelectronic module
Printed circuit board (PCB) positioning spacers in an optoelectronic module. In one example embodiment, an optoelectronic module includes a housing comprising a top shell and a bottom shell, top and bottom printed circuit boards (PCBs) at least partially enclosed within the housing, and a spacer positioned between the first and second PCBs. The spacer includes top and bottom surfaces, a plurality of top posts extending from the top surface, and a bottom post extending from the bottom surface. The top posts extend through openings in the top PCB to contact one or more inside surfaces of the top shell. The bottom post extends through an opening in the bottom PCB to contact an inside surface of the bottom shell.
US08328418B2 Process for manufacturing platinum resistance thermometer
A process for manufacturing a platinum resistance thermometer that is stable with reduced resistance value variation over service temperature range through clarification of a quantitative mechanism of resistance value variation with respect to the oxidation/reduction of platinum resistance wire. The process including the steps of (S1) enclosing a purge gas containing an inert gas and oxygen in a protection tube provided with a thermosensitive part of platinum resistance wire; (S2) raising the internal temperature of the protection tube to a temperature region in which the platinum is in reduced form at a partial pressure of oxygen in the purge gas as determined from platinum oxide formation free energy; (S3) replacing the purge gas with an inert gas wherein oxygen is 1 kPa or below; and (S4) sealing the protection tube under the replaced condition.
US08328415B2 Clock with wireless function
A timepiece with a wireless function, in which the receiving sensitivity of an antenna is improved and the antenna can reliably receive a prescribed radio wave even in the case in which a watch case or the like made of a conductive metal is used. The timepiece is provided with an antenna that is stored in a housing to receive an external radio wave, a watch case that configures at least a part of the housing, that has at least one portion electrically conductive, and that is separated into a plurality of parts, and an insulating region disposed between at least two parts among the plurality of parts of the watch case to insulate the two parts one from the other.
US08328414B2 Timepiece provided with a device for controlling functions and/or time indications
This timepiece is provided with a device for the adjustment of functions and time indications comprising a selection control (L) for each time indication which has to be adjusted and a control (T) for adjustment of the said selected time indications. At least the selection control (L) or the indication which has to be adjusted is kinematically linked with a selection cam (C1) comprising a profile corresponding to two states 0, 1, corresponding to a non-selection state and a selection state respectively, the control device comprising means (L1, L2, L3) for connecting the adjustment control (T) to each of the selected time indications.
US08328412B2 Combined axial-radial intake impeller with circular rake
An impeller, a system for mixing a fluid, and a method of mixing a fluid in a tank are disclosed. For a sufficiently small impeller diameter and maximum blade tip velocity, the disclosed impeller, system, and method are capable of accelerating a near-zero intake velocity fluid, to generate a mixing zone that is collimated enough to have sufficient velocity vectors to suspend particles at a large distance away from the impeller, while minimizing the required power draw. An impeller may include a hub defining a longitudinal axis and plural blades spaced circumferentially about the hub. Each blade may include a root portion and a tip portion. Each blade may define a leading edge having an approximately circular raked helical geometry. A system for mixing a fluid may include a tank for containing the fluid, a drive shaft for extending into the tank, and the impeller.
US08328411B2 Beverage mixing apparatus
Embodiments of the invention are directed to a beverage mixing apparatus which may be used to prepare alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage combination cocktails. In one embodiment, the beverage mixing apparatus includes an upper assembly capable of supporting a plurality of tapered vessels having a first size and a lower assembly capable of supporting a plurality of tapered vessels having a second size. The upper assembly includes a handle assembly which functions like a plunger to submerge and release the plurality of tapered vessels having a first size into the plurality of tapered vessels having a second size when force is applied thereto.
US08328410B1 In-line multi-chamber mixer
The present invention is directed to an in-line mixer for mixing a plurality of fluids to produce a mixed product. The mixer includes one or more mixing chambers, an impeller in each of the mixing chambers, one or more inlets coupled to injection valves for conveying the fluids into the mixing chamber, and an outlet for conveying the mixed product out of the mixing chamber. The in-line mixer is well suited to components, such as those used in making automotive OEM and refinish paints.
US08328397B2 Exterior lighting system
A lighting system provides a lighting fixture elevationally adjustable from an energized configuration to a bulb-replacement configuration wherein the bulbs can be replaced, such as without using a ladder. The lighting fixture is retained by a slide to a slot. When a user releases the slide, it can be directed toward the user until the user can access the light fixture, replace one or more bulbs, and then return the fixture to its predetermined elevation for normal use.
US08328388B2 Signal light using phosphor coated LEDs
An improved signal light and method for making an improved signal light is disclosed. For example, the improved signal light includes a housing, at least one outer lens and at least one or more second type of light emitting diodes (LEDs) deployed in the housing. The at least one or more second type of LEDs includes a pump, a phosphor and a filter having a cutoff point less than or equal to 540 nanometers (nm). The at least one or more second type of LEDs also has a pump peak wavelength less than or equal to 430 nm and has a phosphor with a peak wavelength greater than 575 nm.
US08328387B2 LED module
An LED module (10) comprising a thermally conductive circuit board (12); at least one LED chip (14a to 14f) mounted on the thermally conductive circuit board (12); at least one temperature sensor (24) mounted on the thermally conductive circuit board (12), for determining the temperature of the at least one LED chip (14a to 14f); an optical arrangement (16), which is arranged above the at least one LED chip (14a to 14f) and is mounted on the thermally conductive circuit board (12), wherein the optical arrangement (16) has at least one light-guiding section (20); and a light sensor (18) arranged on the thermally conductive circuit board (12), said light sensor being arranged with respect to the at least one light-guiding section (20) in such a way that it can sense light guided in the light-guiding section (20).
US08328374B2 Device for controlling temperature of an optical element
A device serves for controlling temperature of an optical element provided in vacuum atmosphere. The device has a cooling apparatus having a radiational cooling part, arranged apart from the optical element, for cooling the optical element by radiation heat transfer. A controller serves for controlling temperature of the radiational cooling part. Further, the device comprises a heating part for heating the optical element. The heating part is connected to the controller for controlling the temperature of the heating part. The resulting device for controlling temperature in particular can be used with an optical element in a EUV microlithography tool leading to a stable performance of its optics.
US08328364B2 Projection display apparatus comprising a louver with inclined and non-inclined portions
A projection display apparatus includes an axial fan and a louver. The axial fan includes blades which are rotated to generate an airflow in an axial direction so that air is exhausted from a housing. The louver includes inclined plate portions which are inclined with respect to the axial direction, the inclined plate portions being arranged in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction at an airflow exit side of the axial fan, the louver being divided into a first area and a second area by a straight line which passes through an axial center of the blades, the inclined plate portions being inclined in different directions between the first area and the second area such that the inclined plate portions are inclined along the direction in which the blades are rotated.
US08328358B2 Illumination system for an ophthalmic surgical microscope and method thereof
Disclosed is an illumination system for an ophthalmic surgical microscope (10), including a light source (32) for emitting light along an illumination beam path (50) directed toward an eye (12) of a patient, and a measuring device (54, 62) for measuring a parameter of the patient's eye (12). The illumination system further includes an adjustable optical element (48) which allows the orientation of the illumination beam path (50) to be adjusted relative to an observation beam path (16L) of the surgical microscope (10) so as to obtain a red reflex, and a control device (60) which determines a red-reflex-optimized control parameter based on the measured parameter of the patient's eye (12) and adjusts the optical element (48) according to the red-reflex-optimized control parameter.
US08328353B2 Segmented delta toric lens
A segmented delta toric lens is described. The segmented delta toric lens includes an optical area, a circumference area surrounding the optical area and a segmented delta protrusion formed on the circumference area. The segmented delta protrusion is located apart from the optical area and the edge of the circumference area. The segmented delta toric lens can further include a mark to indicate a direction of the segmented delta toric lens.
US08328352B2 Colored contact lens
A colored contact lens including a non-opaque pupil region and a generally annular-shaped iris region surrounding the pupil region. The iris region is adapted to cover some of a wearer's iris when the wearer is wearing the contact lens and includes at least one pattern formed by an arrangement of discrete color elements having varying sizes. Typically, two or more patterns formed by the discrete color elements are overlaid on each other to form the iris region and give the iris region a more tonal and natural appearance.
US08328350B2 Vertical mount printing device
A media processing device adapted for support from a vertical structure. The media processing device may employ a laser printer, an inkjet printer, or other printing media processing technology. A media processing engine outputs media in a downward direction. A support bracket is coupled to the media processing engine and is adapted to support the media processing engine from a vertical structure, which may be a parapet wall. A media receiver is coupled to the bottom of the media processing engine and receives discharged media therefrom. In an illustrative embodiment, the media processing device is also adapted to rest on a horizontal structure. The support bracket and media receivers rotate to accomplish the transition from vertical to horizontal mounting. A simplified straight-through media path is utilized in the media processing device, which advantageously utilizes the force of gravity.
US08328349B2 Compositions compatible with jet printing and methods therefor
Methods for controlling application of a substance to a substrate involve the use of a gating agent that blocks the substance from the substrate. The methods may utilize ink jet technology to apply the gating agent directly to the substrate or to an intermediate surface. The gating agent composition includes a nonionic surfactant, and water. The gating agent composition does not contain a discernable amount of dye, pigment or other colorant agent.
US08328345B2 Method of non-aqueous inkjet composite printing and ink set
A method of forming a dense image in non-aqueous inkjet composite printing wherein a black ink and at least one color ink are ejected in the same printing scan, comprising the step of: using the black ink comprising a pigment, a pigment dispersant, and a solvent, wherein an acid value of the pigment (PA), a base value of the pigment (PB), an acid value of the pigment dispersant (DA), and a base value of the pigment dispersant (DB), all measured by using a glass electrode as an indicator electrode and a silver/silver chloride electrode as a reference electrode, satisfy the following formula (1): |WPΔP+WDΔD|<3.0  (1) wherein ΔP=PA−PB; ΔD=DA−DB; WP represents the pigment content in % by mass in the ink; WD represents the pigment dispersant content in % by mass in the ink; and the unit of PA, PB, DA, and DB is meq/g.
US08328342B2 Inkjet recording method
An inkjet recording method is disclosed, in which the method includes: recording an image, on a recording medium, using two or more ink compositions each comprising at least a pigment, by applying the two or more ink compositions to an acidic surface of the recording medium at a dotting interval of 500 msec or less; wherein the recording includes forming at least a first color sub-image by applying at least one of the two or more ink compositions and the at least one of the two or more ink compositions includes a self-dispersing polymer having an acid value of from 70 to 120 mgKOH/g and a water-soluble organic solvent.
US08328339B2 Method and apparatus for digitally printing on textile articles
A method for digitally printing on textile articles comprises a digital application of a dedicated diluent substance, according to the type of used coloring material (digital ink), thereby evenly distributing the volume and concentration of the dyeing substances, independently from the intensity of a desired color. An apparatus for carrying out the method uses a portion of a printing module, i.e. a printing head, not involved by the printing of the basic colors C-M-Y-K-, for injecting a specific diluent substance selectively integrating the printing, in which the color or dye, because of its low intensity, would be less than the amount necessary for achieving a passing of the coloring substances up to the opposite side of the fabric material to be printed upon.
US08328325B2 Liquid discharge apparatus having cleaning belts in the shape of a Mobius strip and method of controlling the same
A liquid discharge apparatus includes: nozzles that discharge liquid; a liquid discharge head including the nozzles arranged in arrays; cleaning belts formed in the shape of a Mobius strip; installation rollers around which the cleaning belts rotate; a support frame that supports the installation rollers so that an angle is formed between a width direction of the cleaning belt and an arrangement direction of the nozzles; a moving unit for moving the support frame in the arrangement direction of the nozzles; and a rotational drive unit for rotationally driving the installation rollers. The cleaning belts clean the liquid discharge head by adsorbing attached liquid via contact with the liquid discharge head.
US08328319B2 Print control apparatus, print control method, and storage medium
A print control apparatus includes a setting section and a print controlling section. The setting section enables or disables a first function of sorting paper by performing longitudinal printing in which printing is performed in longitudinal orientation for paper ejection in the longitudinal orientation and lateral printing in which printing is performed in lateral orientation for paper ejection in the lateral orientation alternately. The setting section further enables or disables a second function of barcode printing. The print controlling section controls printing in accordance with setting of each of the first function and the second function. When one of the first function and the second function is enabled, the setting section disables the other function.
US08328313B2 Inkjet recording apparatus
An inkjet recording apparatus includes at least one inkjet head having an ejection surface, a feeding mechanism which includes a feed member having a feed surface that is opposed to the ejection surface and which drives the feed member to feed a recording medium on the feed surface in a feeding direction, a wiper blade which removes ink that is adhered to the feed surface by contacting the feed surface, a judging portion which judges whether cleaning of the feed surface is necessary, and a controller which controls the at least one inkjet head and the feeding mechanism, in a case where the judging portion judges that the cleaning of the feed surface is necessary, to perform a first operation in which ink is ejected to the feed surface and a second operation in which the feed member is driven.
US08328312B2 Method for inkjet printing
A method for inkjet printing includes providing a light blocking member pattern including a plurality of openings at positions corresponding to pixels, dripping a dummy ink drop on the light blocking member pattern by using an inkjet printer, providing a CCD (charge-coupled device) image for the dripped dummy ink drop, representing the CCD image on rectangular coordinates, calculating a central point under an x-axis and a y-axis of the CCD image, calculating an escape value as a deviation of the central point under the x-axis and the y-axis in the CCD image from a reference point established by the inkjet printer, calculating a time adjustment value of the ink drip based on the escape value, and controlling the time for the ink drip for each nozzle of the inkjet printer by the time adjustment value of the ink drip.
US08328308B2 Fluid ejecting apparatus, fluid ejecting head control method in fluid ejecting apparatus, and driving waveform generating apparatus for fluid ejecting head
Disclosed is a fluid ejecting apparatus including a fluid ejecting head that ejects fluid, a waveform generator that transmits a driving waveform for driving the fluid ejecting head to the fluid ejecting head, and a waveform designation signal transmitter that transmits a waveform designation signal for designating a driving waveform to be generated to the waveform generator, wherein the waveform generator transmits the driving waveform at a timing based on a reception timing of the waveform designation signal.
US08328307B2 Imaging device configured to remove residual marking material from an intermediate imaging member
A method of operating an inkjet imaging device more thoroughly cleans residual ink from an intermediate imaging member and disrupts any ghosted images that may have formed in the release agent.
US08328305B2 Liquid ejecting apparatus
A liquid ejecting apparatus includes a detector configured to be in a first state when an amount of liquid stored in a liquid container is greater than a first threshold amount, and to be in a second state when the amount of liquid is less than or equal to the first threshold amount, an estimator configured to estimate the amount of liquid, and a determiner configured to determine that, if it is determined that the state of the detector has changed from the first state to the second state, the liquid container has become a low-amount state, and that, if it is determined that the amount of liquid estimated by the estimator has become less than or equal to the second threshold amount, which is less than the first threshold amount, the liquid container has become the low-amount state.
US08328303B2 Process for printing surfaces of wood-based flat elements
The process enables surfaces of wood-based flat elements (10) to be printed, and comprises a preliminary step of graphic composition by means of an electronic processor and relative software, and a printing step. To print the wood-based flat elements an ink-jet printer (12) is used controlled by the electronic processor, said flat element moving relative to the printer (12) during the printing operation.
US08328302B2 Refrigerator drawer and refrigerator having the same
A refrigerator drawer and a refrigerator having the same are disclosed. The refrigerator drawer includes a storage box forwardly movable in a storage chamber provided in a cabinet; and a supporting member provided in the storage chamber to support the storage box; a guide member provided between the supporting member and the storage box, the guide member secured to the storage box, and being relatively-movable with respect to the storage box and the supporting member, wherein the guide member is movably connected to the storage box and the guide member comprises at least one guiding slot configured to guide the relative-motion with the storage box.
US08328298B2 Electro-hydraulic brake system
Disclosed herein is an electro-hydraulic brake system. The electro-hydraulic brake system includes a master cylinder to transmit brake oil, a high-pressure accumulator to transmit brake oil independently of the master cylinder, first and second circuits connected respectively to the master cylinder, at least one first wheel to be braked by the first circuit, and at least one second wheel to be braked by the second circuit. The first circuit is connected to the high-pressure accumulator, to control the first wheel. The second circuit is connected to the first circuit, to control the second wheel.
US08328296B2 Work vehicle control device
The present invention includes a hydraulic brake device 4, 5 that generates a braking force corresponding to an operation of a brake pedal 1 performed while the vehicle is traveling, a brake lock means 6 for applying a hydraulic lock on the hydraulic brake device 4, 5 and releasing the hydraulic lock, a brake pedal operation detection means 22 for detecting an operation of the brake pedal 1, and a control means 10 for controlling the brake lock means 6 so as to apply the hydraulic lock on the hydraulic brake device 4, 5 upon detecting via the brake pedal operation detection means 22 a predetermined depressing operation of the brake pedal 1.
US08328295B2 Motorcycle braking device
The present invention provides a motorcycle braking device which can perform a control which does not give discomforts to a rider in a front and rear wheel interlocking brake control by taking a manipulation of the rider into consideration. In the motorcycle braking device according to the present invention, in a front and rear wheel interlocking brake control, an additional target pressure associated with a brake input pressure of one of a front wheel hydraulic circuit and a rear wheel hydraulic circuit is applied to another wheel driven by the front wheel hydraulic circuit or the rear wheel hydraulic circuit.
US08328284B2 Lock release assembly for a collapsible chair having a fold-down back
Lock release assemblies which are accessible at the rear of a rotatable fold-down back of a collapsible home or office chair. The lock release assemblies are adapted to be manually manipulated by the user to control the rotation of the fold-down back from a locked upright position standing vertically above the seat of the chair to an unlocked folded position lying horizontally over the seat in face-to-face alignment therewith. With the back rotated to its folded position, the chair will have a compact, space-efficient configuration which is suitable for storage and/or transport.
US08328283B2 Chair
A chair with articulable support sections and an integrated lift system may have support sections mechanically linked such that a single actuation control device may articulate multiple sections. The chair includes configurable accessories directed to the comfort of an occupant of the chair. The support sections may include air cells to adjust firmness of support section surfaces.
US08328272B2 Lower structure of vehicle body rear portion
A lower structure of a vehicle body rear portion includes: a rear floor panel in a rear portion of a vehicle; a spare tire housing formed on the floor panel in such a manner as to be recessed downward; rear side members extending in a front and rear direction on respective right and left ends of the floor panel; a rear cross member arranged in front of the housing and connecting the paired right and left side members; and a spare tire cross member attached to the housing and connecting the paired side members, wherein a rear part of each of the side members is formed to have a rigidity lower than a rigidity of a front part thereof, the rear part extending on the rear side from a joint part joining with the spare tire cross member, the front part extending on the front side from the joint part.
US08328271B2 Off-road vehicle having a cargo box
An off-road vehicle has a frame, at least four wheels, each including a tire, a seat, a steering assembly, an engine, and a cargo box pivotally mounted to the frame rearwardly of the seat. The cargo box includes a cargo box body having a front wall, a pair of side walls extending from the front wall, a first floor connected to a lower end of the front and the pair of side walls, and an at least partially opened rear side. A second floor is supported inside the cargo box body above the first floor. At least one tailgate selectively closes the at least partially opened rear side.
US08328270B2 Integrated roller and striker assembly for a vehicle
A vehicle closure assembly includes a vehicle body defining an opening, a latch assembly mounted to the vehicle body, a track mounted to the vehicle body, a slidable closure movable with respect to the vehicle body for selectively covering the opening, and a roller and striker assembly connected with the slidable closure for movement with the slidable closure. The roller and striker assembly includes a roller riding on the track and a striker for cooperating with the latch assembly. The roller moves with respect to the track to allow the slidable closure to move with respect to the vehicle body. The striker engages with the latch assembly to preclude movement of the slidable closure with respect to the vehicle body.
US08328251B2 Asymmetric energy absorber and method of making and using the same
In one embodiment, an asymmetric energy absorber can comprise: an upper wall and a lower wall defining crush lobes; a flange, wherein the lower wall is between the flange and the upper wall; a base extending between the lower wall and the flange, wherein the flange extends from a first side of the base; and a rib extending along the base toward the flange and away from a second side of the base. In an embodiment, a vehicle bumper system, can comprise: a bumper beam having an outer face and a bottom surface; an asymmetric energy absorber. The asymmetric energy absorber can comprise: a generally triangular shaped section formed by an upper wall extending from an upper wall first end toward a lower wall to a joining area; a base extending from a second end of the lower wall opposite the joining area and in a direction away from the upper wall; a flange extending away from the base, below the lower wall; and a rib extending from the base along the bottom surface of the bumper beam.
US08328249B2 Vehicle latch
A latch assembly is provided, the latch assembly having a fork bolt movably secured thereto for movement between a latched position and an unlatched position. A detent lever is also provided. The detent lever is capable of movement between an engaged position and a disengaged position, wherein the detent lever retains the fork bolt in the latched position when the detent lever is in the engaged position. The detent lever has a stop member and a guide member each protruding away from a surface of the detent lever and the stop member is in a spaced relationship with respect to the guide member. The latch assembly also includes an actuator for moving the detent lever from the engaged position to the disengaged position by contacting the guide member while the stop member is positioned so that the actuator will contact the stop member and prevent further movement of the actuator when the fork bolt is in the unlatched position and the detent lever is in the disengaged position.
US08328245B2 Clamp adapter assembly
A clamp adapter assembly for connecting an instrument to a pressure vessel. The clamp adapter assembly allows an operator to convert a bolt connection base known in the art into a base suitable for utilizing a clamped connection similarly known in the art. The connection assembly includes a bottom plate, at least one fastener to fasten the bottom plate to a base, a top retaining plate, and a clamp. The peripheral portions of the bottom plate and top retaining plate may be beveled in order to be received within a tri-clamp. The top retaining plate may include two sections that overlappingly engage one another.
US08328241B1 Clampless fitting for plastic pipes
A clampless fitting for one or more plastic pipes. The fitting has at least one section extending along an axis with a sealing portion and pipe gripping portion adjacent one another on the outer surface of the section. The pipe gripping portion includes a recess extending about the axis of the fitting section with a pipe gripping ring removably received in it and extending substantially about the axis. The ring is substantially C-shaped about the axis and has a plurality of pairs of first and second end segments spaced from each other along the axis and respectively joined by a central pivot segment. In operation, the fitting section is inserted in a first direction into the open end of the plastic pipe to a first location relative to the pipe in which both the sealing and pipe gripping portions are received in the pipe. The second end segment of the ring has a pipe piercing, tip section that is supported above the inner surface of the pipe as the pipe passes over the fitting section to the first relative location. Movement of the fitting section and pipe in an opposite direction away from each other will then cause the upstanding tip sections of the second end segments to pierce the inner surface of the pipe and move into the pipe wall and pivot the first and second end segments of the ring to abut one another to secure the fitting section and pipe in place.
US08328240B2 Bulkhead fitting
Disclosed herein is a bulkhead fitting. The bulkhead fitting includes biasing means and a plurality of guide rings. In a preferred embodiment, a first guide ring is provided with an annular sidewall and a base extending radially outward from the sidewall, and a second guide ring is configured to mate with the first guide ring. Biasing means is positioned between the guide rings and radially outward of the sidewall to allow expansion and contraction of the first and second guide rings relative to one another, while preventing or inhibiting the biasing means from catching in the threads of the shaft or otherwise contacting the shaft.
US08328238B2 Steering wheel assembly
A steering wheel assembly (20) comprising a steering wheel (22) rotatably mounted to a support body (24) is provided. The support body, or console unit, is rotatable about an axis which is substantially transverse between a steering position for steering the vehicle and a table position in which one upward facing surface (28) of the support body provides a table. Advantageously, a surface of the support body to which the steering wheel is mounted is exploited to provide an additional surface for the driver (35) when the vehicle is not in operation.
US08328237B2 Steering column dynamic damper
A damper for a steering column assembly includes a housing attached to and extending along an axis of the steering column assembly. A mass is attached to a distal end of the housing with a resilient member being disposed between the housing and the mass that permits movement of the mass along an axis that is substantially parallel to the axis of the steering column assembly relative to the housing to absorb vibrational forces exerted on the steering column assembly along the axis.
US08328236B2 Floor conveyor with wheel arms
A floor conveyor, with a frame on which a drive unit and a load unit are attached, the load unit having a load carrying means adjustable in its height, further with two parallel wheel arms which are adapted to be mounted on the outer sides of the frame, each wheel arm mounting one load wheel, and with means for reducing the distance of the wheel arms from each other, wherein a frame portion or a frame plate is fixedly connected to the frame on each outer side thereof, said frame portion or frame plate having an outer bearing surface and holes which result in a first hole pattern, wherein a wheel arm plate is connected to the wheel arms, which has first through bores resulting in a second hole pattern, and an inner bearing surface.
US08328232B2 Airbag apparatus
An airbag apparatus includes an airbag. The airbag includes a gas releasing valve having first and second valve body portions each have a flexible portion. The flexible portions are flexible toward a released gas downstream side of inflation gas. An auxiliary joint portion joins the first and second valve body portions to each other and extending, from a position in the vicinity of and on a released gas upstream side of the flexible portion, further toward the released gas upstream side. A flex-resistant portion that extends in the gas releasing direction and is less flexible than the flexible portion is arranged on the auxiliary joint portion of the gas releasing valve or in the vicinity of the auxiliary joint portion.
US08328230B1 Active bolster with internal tear ribs for a contoured inflation shape
An active bolster for protecting an occupant during a crash event of a motor vehicle includes a back wall and a front wall forming an inflatable bladder. Frangible tear ribs are provided in a central region to limit expansion so a surrounding region expands by a greater distance toward the occupant prior to tearing of the tear ribs providing a contoured shape during inflation deflecting a portion of an impacting occupant toward the central region. The tear ribs separate after a predetermined amount of inflation to provide a cushion in the central region.
US08328229B2 Airbag module
An airbag module for protecting the knees of an occupant of a vehicle includes an airbag formed by at least one panel of material, an inflator that produces gas that inflates the airbag into a deployed condition, a tether connected to the airbag for restraining upward movement of the airbag when the airbag begins to deploy, and a housing. Prior to deployment, the airbag is compacted in the storage condition. In the storage condition, the airbag includes a rolled portion and a folded portion, where the folded portion includes a half Z-shape fold.
US08328211B2 Suspension system with single moving element
A suspension system for use with a vehicle comprising a control arm having an upper rear arm and a spring mounting plate integrally formed as a single member, a spindle extending outwardly from the upper rear arm, an air spring adapted to be mounted intermediate the spring plate and the vehicle, and a pivot assembly for pivotally mounting the control arm to the vehicle whereby the pivot assembly has a fist axis of rotation.
US08328206B2 Skateboard truck with rotateable wing shaped bushing
A skateboard truck is fabricated utilizing one, or more, elongated, generally ‘wing’ shaped, elastomeric bushings which have the ability of being controllably rotated both from within, as well as from around, the perimeters of one or more bushing seats formed into the main body of the hanger of the skateboard truck. By controllably rotating the wing shaped bushing from a parallel bushing position in relation to the sloped mounting face of the truck base plate into a perpendicular bushing position in relation to the same sloped mounting face, an enhanced range of truck tension control options are provided to the truck. Such a truck design permits the possibility of bushing tension and position adjustments to be made to the truck without the need for the rider to dismount the skateboard, and also without the use of tools. Moreover, a skateboard rider has the ability to perform such truck tension adjustments while being mounted on and in the act of riding the skateboard.
US08328178B2 Sheet conveying system, control method therefor, control program for implementing the method, and storage medium storing the program
A sheet conveying system which is capable of preventing a jammed sheet from being mixed with processed sheets, reducing waste in sheets and toners, and further alleviating the user's operations, when jamming has occurred during passing of a sheet between respective sheet conveying devices of upstream and downstream apparatuses. A puncher control section of a puncher as an upstream apparatus of the system issues a passing completion notification as to the passing of a sheet to a staple stacker control section of a staple stacker as a downstream apparatus of the system. Upon reception of the notification, when the staple stacker control section determines that the parameter of auxiliary information of the notification indicates an abnormal discharge of the sheet from the puncher, the staple stacker stops the conveyance of the sheet.
US08328176B2 Paper sheet stacking device, and bookbinding device
To provide a paper-sheet-loading device that makes it easy to take out booklet or the like loaded on a tray. The paper-sheet-loading device 1 is provided with a discharge-processing portion 7 which discharges the booklet or the like through a discharge portion and a discharged paper stacker 8 having a loading stage 80 on which the booklet or the like discharged from the discharge-processing portion 7 is loaded. The loading stage 80 is provided with a tray 81 on which the booklet or the like is loaded and which can be pulled out from the front side of the device and an auxiliary loading member 80b closing the lower side of a rear side of the tray 81 when the tray 81 is pulled out. The auxiliary loading member 80b has a shape after a loading face 81a of the tray 81 and becomes exposed continuously from the lower side of the tray 81 to the rear side thereof, thereby enabling the booklet or the like to be loaded without losing its balance.
US08328172B2 CNC material processing system with workpiece travel
A CNC system including a travelling drive bar assembly for support of material to be processed. A CNC system including a cutting tool operates on a work piece in at least three axes, with a gantry across the machine that a carriage moves along and a tool that moves vertically on the carriage. A drive bar, oriented perpendicularly to the gantry and to a vertical axis, may travel to support and move the workpiece along its line of orientation. The drive bar may include an elongated structural member, two tracks mounted longitudinally to the elongated member on opposite sides of the elongated member, and a rack, adapted to accept a pinion to urge the drive bar to move, also mounted longitudinally to the elongated member. Guide wheels may receive the tracks to support and align the drive bar. Rollers may further support material that is mounted to the drive bar.
US08328169B2 Spring steel and spring having superior corrosion fatigue strength
The present application provides a high strength spring steel and a high strength spring that have superior corrosion fatigue strength. The spring steel comprises, in terms of percent by mass, 0.35-0.55% C, 1.60-3.00% Si, 0.20-1.50% Mn, 0.10-1.50% Cr and at least one element selected from 0.40-3.00% Ni, 0.05-0.50% Mo 0.05-0.50% V, the balance being at least substantially Fe and incidental elements and impurities.
US08328167B2 Modules for membrane aeration
The present invention relates to a device for the aeration of liquid media by tube aeration, special tube modules contained therein and the use of a device for the aeration of liquid media.
US08328163B2 Vacuum valve with a sealing ring
A vacuum valve with a seating ring having a generally rectangular cross section. With respect to rectangular edges lying diametrically opposite one another, radii of curvature are arranged in these edges, which radii of curvature come into sealing engagement with sealing seats arranged lying opposite one another on the housing side and the disk side. The sealing surfaces on the sealing seats have approximately the same cone angle. The sealing ring is easy to produce, has a small rolling path and there is no danger of damage to the valve seats by the sealing ring.
US08328161B2 Sanitary fitting with separate mounting for the actuating lever
The fitting housing contains a control cartridge, of which the control shank can be pivoted about the pivot axis. The actuating lever can be displaced relative to the control shank, is mounted on the latter and can be pivoted via its own lever axis, this lever axis being guided in the guide track. When the actuating lever is pivoted up and down, it executes a displacement movement relative to the control shank, and this prevents contact between the actuating lever and the fitting housing.
US08328152B2 Coaster
A coaster or trivet includes a liquid impervious base and a liquid absorbent gel disposed on the base. The gel may comprise a hydrogel including a plurality of gel layers. Each gel layer is a different adhesive property with a first gel layer having a relatively high peel strength for contacting the base and a second gel layer having a relatively low peel strength for removably contacting a container.
US08328149B2 Top access leveler assembly
A top access leveler assembly for leveling a table by use of a pedestal guide barrel, a leveling adjustment screw, and an adjustment driver. The leveling adjustment screw has a lower end with a foot pad and an upper end that can be rotated by the use of an adjustment driver. The adjustment driver is positioned within a cavity of the pedestal guide barrel and is further operated by a knob guide barrel that employs the use of alignment channels to allow the knob guide barrel to be twisted into a position where a spring biases the knob upward to allow ease of rotation. Once the knob is raised, the leveling adjustment screw is accessed from the top wherein the alignment channels allow rotation of the adjustment driver in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction for use in extending the foot pad beneath the base of the table. The alignment guides further allow for the depressing of the guide barrel into the cavity and with a slight rotation places the guide barrel in a recessed position when not in use. The knob guide barrel includes a knob having an upper surface that is designed to be flush with an upper surface of the pedestal base when not in use and extends above the upper surface of the pedestal base to allow ease of rotation.
US08328144B2 Method and apparatus for distributed power train control
A method for controlling a railroad train (10) comprising a lead unit (14), a remote unit (12A) and a communications system communicating information between the lead unit (14) and the remote unit (12A), wherein the lead unit (14) and the remote unit (12A) are each operable in a traction operational mode and a dynamic brake operational mode. The method comprises determining operability of the communications system; determining a direction of train travel; determining an operational mode of the lead unit (14) and the remote unit (12A); and indicating a train condition responsive to the operability of the communications system, the direction of train travel and the operational mode of the lead (14) and remote units (12A).
US08328143B2 Method for isolation of vital functions in a centralized train control system
A method and system for reducing, in a centralized train control system, the portion of a centralized server application that is considered vital while not reducing the overall vitality of the system.
US08328140B2 System for transportation of goods in a loading space
The present invention relates to a system for transportation of goods in a loading space. The system comprises a conveyor (1) for goods which is drivable to and for in the loading space. To provide a quickly and easily fittable system for transportation of goods which is of low weight and easy to work with, the conveyor comprises a first element (3) with a goods-bearing belt and with a wall (6) disposed transversely to the driving directions of the conveyor, the goods-bearing belt being fastened to the wall via a first end portion, the wall being movable between a first extreme position (A) at or in the vicinity of an aperture to the loading space and a second extreme position at a far end of the loading space from said aperture, and a second element (4) disposed at or in the vicinity of the aperture to the loading space as a continuation of said first element of the conveyor, to which second element the goods-bearing belt is fastened via a second end portion and, during movement of said transverse wall between said extreme positions, is unwindable and windable about two elongate rollers (7, 8) supported for rotation in the vehicle at a distance from one another, so that the instantaneously uppermost strand of the goods-bearing belt wound about the rollers serves as a movable loading and unloading surface for goods between said rollers. The conveyor (1) is also configured to allow movement of the transverse wall (6) between said extreme positions and thus at the same time to unwind or wind the goods-bearing belt.
US08328131B2 Annular airborne vehicle
An airborne vehicle having a wing-body which defines a wing-body axis and appears substantially annular when viewed along the wing-body axis, the interior of the annulus defining a duct which is open at both ends. A propulsion system is provided comprising one or more pairs of propulsion devices, each pair comprising a first propulsion device mounted to the wing-body and positioned on a first side of a plane including the wing-body axis, and a second propulsion device mounted to the wing-body and positioned on a second side of the plane including the wing-body axis.
US08328127B2 Spool assembly
A plastic spool assembly comprising a central barrel and a circular end flange for attachment to each cylindrical end of the barrel, each end flange having a central hub having central opening with an annular ridge formed thereon extending radially inwardly for snap-fitting into and mating with an annular recess of the central barrel for tight-fitting locking engagement, each end flange having a plurality of radial slots for flexing of the end flange. Each barrel end annular recess preferably has a plurality of equispaced teeth extending radially outwardly and the annular ridge in the flange hub opening has a plurality of equispaced teeth extending radially inwardly therefrom for interlocking with and engaging the teeth of the annular recess for preventing angular circumferential movement of the flanges. The central barrel preferably is comprised of a pair of molded mirror-shaped plastic halves with alignment tabs and may be joined by a plastic hinge. Each end flange may have a first circular rib formed on a flange outer face between the central hub and a peripheral rim joining outer ends of the radial slots. Each end flange may have a second circular rib intermediate the first circular rib and the peripheral rim and joined thereto by the plurality of equispaced spokes.
US08328123B2 Variable blowing control system for loosefill blowing machine
A machine for distributing loosefill insulation from sources of compressed loosefill insulation is provided. The machine includes a shredding chamber having an outlet end and a plurality of shredders configured to condition the loosefill insulation. The plurality of shredders is configured to operate at variable rotational speeds. A discharge mechanism is mounted at the outlet end of the shredding chamber. The discharge mechanism is configured for distributing the conditioned loosefill insulation into an airstream provided by a blower. The blower is configured to operate at variable rotational speeds. The plurality of shredders, the discharge mechanism and the blower are configured to operate on a single 15 ampere, 110 volt a.c. power supply. The variable rotational speeds of the plurality of shredders are configured to provide variable flow rates of the loosefill insulation and the variable rotational speeds of the blower are configured to provide variable flow rates of the airstream.
US08328119B2 Water outlet for a low-pressure sanitary outlet fitting
A water outlet for a low pressure sanitary outlet fitting has a perforated structure which is air-permeable counter to the water outlet direction and, in the unpressurized state, holds water in the outlet direction, and has a plurality of throughflow holes. At least one bypass is provided, which bypasses the perforated structure and has an opening cross section which is larger than the throughflow holes. A bypass valve is movable from a closed position into an open position counter to a resetting force as a consequence of an increase in pressure on the inflow side. If a hot water tank connected upstream of the water outlet fitting increasingly contracts as the heated water therein cools, air can nevertheless be sucked in via the perforated structure and the pressure can be equalized. If excessive pressures builds up with the heating of the water in the hot water tank, the bypass valve moves from a closed position into an open position counter to a resetting force.
US08328113B2 Snap-fit valve and straw assembly and method of using same
The present invention relates to a leakage prevention straw, a method of manufacturing the leakage prevention straw, and containers employing the leakage prevention straw. In accordance with the present invention, the leakage prevention straw has an open-ended, hollow tube; an open-ended, hollow receiver sealably mounted on the tube; a valve assembly sealably engaging the receiver; and a resilient locking adapter disposed on the tube and lockingly engaging the valve assembly to secure the valve assembly in liquid seal engagement with the receiver. The valve assembly has a hollow, open-ended, resilient enclosure and a check valve disposed within the enclosure. Although the check valve is biased in a closed position, the check valve opens upon manual manipulation of the enclosure.
US08328109B2 Coding pattern comprising registration symbols for identifying the coding pattern
A substrate having a first coding pattern disposed on a surface thereof. The first coding pattern comprises: a plurality of target elements defining a target grid, the target grid comprising a plurality of cells, wherein neighboring cells share target elements; a plurality of data elements contained in each cell; and a plurality of tags. Each tag is defined by a first set of contiguous cells. Each tag comprises respective tag data encoded by a respective set of the data elements. Each cell comprises one or more registration symbols encoded by a respective set of said data elements. Each of the registration symbols identifies the cell as being contained in the first set, and thereby contained in the first coding pattern.
US08328107B2 High temperature tag
In the high temperature tag of the disclosure, a transponder is placed between at least two thin layers of compressible high temperature material, preferably a high temperature textile. This resulting sandwich is then placed in the closed chamber formed by a two-part-housing of high temperature plastic. Finally, a cover, also of high temperature plastic, is injection-molded over the joining parts of the housing, in order to seal it hermetically.
US08328105B2 Semiconductor device
An object is to provide a semiconductor device which operates stably even when the communication distance between a reader/writer and a non-contact data carrier is largely changed. A protection circuit is provided in the non-contact data carrier, and an operating state and a non-operating state of the protection circuit are switched depending on the communication distance between the reader/writer and the non-contact data carrier. The operating point at which the operating state and the non-operating state of the protection circuit are switched is different between the case where input voltage of the protection circuit is low in an initial state and then gradually raised and the case where input voltage of the protection circuit is high in an initial state and then gradually lowered.
US08328104B2 Storage device management systems and methods
Storage device management systems and methods are provided. The system includes a storage device and an electronic device. The storage device has a UID, and a public area including a plurality of zones. Each zone includes an interpretation module. The electronic device selects one of the zones, reads the interpretation module from the selected zone of the storage device, and executes the interpretation module to read the UID, and interpret the UID as a specific UID. The electronic device manages the storage device locally or remotely based on the specific UID.
US08328099B2 Auto-focusing method for an automatic data collection device, such as an image acquisition device
An automatic data collection device includes an automatic focusing feature. The automatic focusing feature is based on a type of triangulation technique, which determines an optimum position of an imaging lens in order to obtain an optimally focused image. The position of the imaging lens may be adjusted until the imaging lens is at the optimum position. A pair of aiming beams is separated by a distance. The optimum position of the imaging lens (and/or the amount of displacement of the imaging lens that is needed to reach the optimum position) can be determined based on a relation that involves the distance between the two aiming beams, a focal length of the imaging lens, and a distance between “spots” that are respectively generated on an image plane (such as on an image sensor) by the pair of aiming beams.
US08328092B1 Electronic memory key
An electronic memory key is described. The key includes internal memory and contact points on an exemplary flat and annular surface with a mechanical fastening mechanism to securely affix the key to a device interface. Corresponding contacts are provided on the device to electronically communicate the key to device.
US08328080B2 Document production using image transfer to mated substrate
A system in which a check and its duplicate are formed. In an embodiment, a mating device mates a base stock of a negotiable instrument with a base stock of a duplicate negotiable instrument to form mated base stock. In one embodiment, the base stock of the duplicate negotiable instrument has a photosensitive coating applied to a portion of the duplicate negotiable instrument. A printing device may be used to print personalized information on the base stock of negotiable instrument portion of the mated base stock. Also, an exposure unit may be used to apply light to the mated base stock, wherein the application of the light to the mated base stock transfers a portion of the personalized information on the negotiable instrument to the duplicate negotiable instrument.
US08328072B2 Method for forming a wave form used to make wound stents
A method for forming a wave form for a stent. The wave form includes a plurality of substantially straight portions and a plurality of curved portions. Each curved portion connects adjacent substantially straight portions. The method includes feeding a formable material between a first die and a second die, the first die having a protruding surface in the shape of the wave form, and the second die having a recessed surface in the shape of the wave form complementing the protruding surface of the first die, pressing the formable material with the protruding surface of the first die into contact with the recessed surface of the second die, and shearing the wave form from the formable material with shearing forces created by the pressing.
US08328067B2 Inert environment enclosure
A novel inert environment enclosure includes an object inlet where production objects enter the enclosure and an object outlet where the production objects exit. At least one of the object inlet and the object outlet includes both a top-side flow obstructer and a bottom-side flow obstructer for preventing air from entering the enclosure. In a particular embodiment, the top-side flow obstructer and the bottom-side flow obstructer each include a curtain constructed from a flexible fabric having a plurality of individual adjacent fingers. In another particular embodiment, the inert environment enclosure is a nitrogen hood that houses a wave soldering machine. A inert gas nozzle is mounted at or near the inlet and/or the outlet. The inert environment enclosure maintains a positive pressure with respect to the surrounding environment when production objects are passed through the enclosure.
US08328066B2 Bonding tool and electronic component mounting apparatus and method
A bonding tool, including: a component mounting unit including a horn that has a heater insertion hole, in which a heater is inserted with a predetermined clearance, and transmits ultrasonic vibration, an ultrasonic transducer that is fixed on the horn and produces the ultrasonic vibration, and an electronic component holder that is fixed on the horn, holds an electronic component and is heated by the heater; a leg that supports the horn on both sides of the horn at nodal points of the ultrasonic vibration on the horn; a supporter that holds the leg; and a heater holder that holds the heater on both sides of the horn, wherein the leg and the heater holder are formed integrally with each other.
US08328054B2 Refrigerator related technology
Disclosed is a refrigerator includes a main body having a cooling chamber. The refrigerator also includes a dispenser having an accommodation portion positioned at a front side of the refrigerator and configured to provide ice through the accommodation portion without opening a door of the refrigerator. The refrigerator further includes a chute having an outlet, coupled to the dispenser, and configured to transfer ice stored in an ice container to the dispenser. In addition, the refrigerator includes an opening and closing member positioned at the outlet of the chute and configured to open or close the outlet of the chute in response to a driving signal, wherein the opening and closing member and the outlet of the chute have a circular shape.
US08328051B2 Fine powder filler system
Disclosed are embodiments of a powder filler system incorporating a pair of symmetrical agitators within a hopper, containing powder and having an upper cylindrical portion and a lower funnel portion. Each agitator includes: a first bar extending from the top of the hopper to a tubular section of the funnel portion; a second bar connected to the first bar and extending towards an interface between the upper cylindrical and lower funnel portions of the hopper; a third bar connected to both the first and second bars such that it is approximately parallel to an angled sidewall of a conical section of the funnel portion; and vertically oriented and angled fins connected between the second and third bars. Agitators configured in this manner maintain the powder at an essentially uniform density within the hopper; move the powder towards the auger such that cavitations/starvations are avoided; and ensure a steady discharge flow.
US08328050B2 Dispensing nozzle assembly
A dispensing nozzle assembly for dispensing a number of micro-ingredients into a fluid stream. The dispensing nozzle assembly may include a micro-ingredient mixing chamber, a number of micro-ingredient lines in communication with the micro-ingredient mixing chamber such that the micro-ingredients mix therein, and a mixed micro-ingredient exit such the mixed micro-ingredients are dispensed into the fluid stream.
US08328048B2 Package with resealable flexible spout
A package for containing and dispensing of pourable product has a sheet material bag. A dispenser tube is inserted through a seam of the bag, where a pouring spout of the tube extends into the bag from the bag seam and a sealing sleeve extends outwardly from the bag seam. An openable/closeable seal extends across the end of the sealing sleeve, the openable/closeable seal having first and second strips with releasably interengaging configuration. The openable/closeable seal may be opened and the pouring spout everted through the sealing sleeve. The pouring spout is longer than the sealing sleeve and extends past the open seal. The openable/closeable seal is a zipper seal or a slide seal. The package may have a box in which the bag and dispenser tube are contained prior to and after use in dispensing a pourable product.
US08328044B1 Traveling mug
The traveling mug includes a container divisible into a plurality of vertically oriented compartments. A lid attaches atop the container via securing member. The lid has a selection stem rotatably engaged about said lid, and enables access to a desired compartment upon rotation thereon. The lid has sipping sections aligned above the compartments such that upon alignment of the selection stem, an end user may sip contents there from and to the respective sipping section. The selection stem is connected to an armature positioned between the lid and a bottom disk having openings thereon; upon rotation of the selection stem and armature, covers rotate and either expose or cover the openings of the disk thereby providing access to either compartment situated there under.
US08328035B2 Baggage container
The present disclosure relates to a baggage container with at least one loading platform for single items of hand baggage, said baggage items each having a base on which are two opposed lateral walls, said loading platform comprising reception methods for each base of said items of baggage in order to receive said items of baggage standing on the base thereof and organized such that said walls of said items of baggage are essentially parallel to each other. According to the disclosure, said reception methods have ways for holding each of said bases and said bases are designed to engage in said reception methods when the item of baggage is loaded into the container, such that said bases cooperate with said retainer methods to hold the item of baggage in a fixed opposition on said loading platform.
US08328032B2 Self-mixing container with a releasable internal vessel and its usage
A self-mixing container with a releasable internal vessel and its usage, comprising a container body, a double-walled external cap and an internal vessel. This container makes it possible to pack and seal in a cold filling process at least two different materials in one and the same container body respectively. When in use, at least two kinds of materials are mixed and formulated in one and the same container body in a rapid and automatic way, by means of relative movement of the screw-threads by which the container body, the double-walled external cap and the internal vessel are coupled with each other, and engagement of the ratchet and the pawls, without the structure of the container body being damaged, so that initial fresh active components in the materials sealed therein are preserved, and rapid formulation is achieved.
US08328031B2 Safety stopper
Intended to prevent the contents of a bottle from being consumed by unauthorized people, both in the case of alcoholic beverages and other hazardous liquids, it consists of a cap itself (47), a sort of upside-down bowl, with a tubular axial prolongation and (46) to guide the joining of the base body onto the pouring neck (44). It attaches to the bottle, the said bowl (47) resting its mouth on a group of outer numbered wheels (50), which in turn rest below on a stopper-bearing (54) that is crossed by a hook (57) resting in turn on the inner sets of wheels (49), which can be moved against the hook (57) by a spring (61). These inner wheels (49) have notches for joining radial plugs (48), notches that are conveniently placed with respect to said plugs to allow the detaching of the cap itself and the consequent opening of the bottle.