Document Document Title
US08582391B2 Adjusting clock error across a circuit interface
A system is provided with clock skew measurement and correction technology. A first circuit or memory controller 4 includes measuring circuits to measure relative timing or phase offsets of multiple clock signals of a second circuit or memory 6. One measuring circuit is configured for incremental changing of the phase of a transmitted test data sequence to measure and correct timing of a memory receiver circuit's quadrature clocks based on results of a data comparison of transmitted and received test data. Another measuring circuit is configured to scan a received test data sequence for data transitions to measure and correct timing of a memory transmitter circuit's quadrature clocks based on spacing or timing between detected transitions. Individual memory clock generators 30 are controlled with adjustable delay circuits 47 for changing phase of different clock signals of the memory to set the clock signals based on the measurements of the controller.
US08582369B2 Nonvolatile semiconductor memory device
In writing, a first write operation to a first memory cell is executed; and a second write operation for providing a first threshold-voltage distribution to a second memory cell adjacent to the first one, is executed. The first threshold voltage distribution is a lowest threshold-voltage distribution among the positive threshold voltage distributions. It is verified whether a desired threshold voltage distribution has been obtained in the first memory cell or not (first write verify operation), moreover, it is verified whether a first threshold voltage distribution or a threshold voltage distribution having a voltage level larger than the first threshold-voltage distribution has been obtained in the second memory cell or not (second write verify operation). A control circuit outputs results of the first write verify operation and the second write verify operation.
US08582365B2 Nonvolatile memory devices, memory systems and methods of performing read operations
Within a non-volatile memory device, a read operation directed to a nonvolatile memory cell having a positive threshold voltage applies a positive read voltage to a selected word line and a first control signal to a page buffer connected to a selected bit line, but if the memory cell has a negative threshold voltage the read operation applies a negative read voltage to the selected word line and a second control signal to the page buffer different from the first control signal.
US08582363B2 Method and apparatus for management of over-erasure in NAND-based NOR-type flash memory
A method and apparatus for operating an array block of dual charge retaining transistor NOR flash memory cells by erasing the dual charge retaining transistor NOR flash memory cells to set their threshold voltage levels to prevent leakage current from corrupting data during a read operation. Erasure of the array block of NOR flash memory cells begins by selecting one of block section of the array block and strongly and deeply erasing, over-erase verifying, and programming iteratively until the charge retaining transistors have their threshold voltages between the lower voltage limit and the upper voltage limit of the first program state. Other block sections are iteratively selected and erased, over-erase verified, and programmed repeatedly until the charge retaining transistors have their threshold voltages between the lower voltage limit and the upper voltage limit of the first program state until the entire block has been erased and reprogrammed to a positive threshold level.
US08582355B2 Magnetic memory element and nonvolatile memory device
According to one embodiment, a magnetic memory element includes a stacked body including first and second stacked units. The first stacked unit includes first and second ferromagnetic layers and a first nonmagnetic layer. A magnetization of the first ferromagnetic layer is fixed in a direction perpendicular to the first ferromagnetic layer. A magnetization of the second ferromagnetic layer is variable. The first nonmagnetic layer is provided between the first and second ferromagnetic layers. The second stacked unit stacked with the first stacked unit includes third and fourth ferromagnetic layers and a second nonmagnetic layer. A magnetization of the third ferromagnetic layer is variable. The fourth ferromagnetic layer is stacked with the third ferromagnetic layer. A magnetization of the fourth ferromagnetic layer is fixed in a direction perpendicular to the fourth ferromagnetic layer. The second nonmagnetic layer is provided between the third and fourth ferromagnetic layers.
US08582343B2 Semiconductor storage device, semiconductor storage device manufacturing method and package resin forming method
A ferroelectric capacitor comprising a transistor layer superimposed on a semiconductor substrate, a ferroelectric capacitor layer provided superior to the transistor layer, a wiring layer provided superior to the ferroelectric capacitor layer, and a passivation film. Further, at least one layer of barrier film capable of inhibiting penetration of moisture and hydrogen into the underlayer is provided between the ferroelectric capacitor layer and the passivation film, and the passivation film is characterized by containing a novolac resin.
US08582341B2 Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing same
According to an embodiment, a method of manufacturing a semiconductor device including a memory array provided on a substrate, and a control circuit provided on a surface of the substrate between the substrate and the memory array, includes steps of forming, in an insulating layer covering a p-type semiconductor region and an n-type semiconductor region of the control circuit, a first contact hole communicating with the p-type semiconductor region; forming a contact plug, in contact with the p-type semiconductor region, within the first contact hole; forming, in the insulating layer, a second contact hole communicating with the n-type semiconductor region; and forming an interconnection contacting the contact plug and the n-type semiconductor region exposed within the second contact hole.
US08582338B1 Ternary content addressable memory cell having single transistor pull-down stack
Ternary CAM cells are disclosed that include a compare circuit that includes a discharge path having a single pull-down transistor coupled between the match line and ground potential.
US08582332B2 Dual output DC-DC charge pump regulator
An apparatus includes a first switch coupled to a first voltage reference and a second switch coupled to a second voltage reference. A third switch is coupled to a first terminal of a first capacitor and a first terminal of a second capacitor. A fourth switch is coupled to a second terminal of the first capacitor and the first terminal of the second capacitor. A fifth switch is coupled to the second terminal of the first capacitor and a first terminal of a third capacitor. A sixth switch is coupled to the first terminal of the first capacitor and the first terminal of the third capacitor. The first switch, the second switch, the third switch, the fourth switch, the fifth switch, and the sixth switch are controlled to maintain a first voltage level at a first output and a second voltage level at a second output.
US08582320B2 Self-excited switching power supply circuit
There is provided a self-excited switching power supply circuit. A cycle control capacitor is charged with a flyback voltage generated in a feedback winding of a transformer during OFF operation period in which an exciting current does not flow in a primary winding of the transformer. An OFF control capacitor the charging speed of which changes ON operation period is charged with the charging voltage of the cycle control capacitor during the ON operation period in which an exciting current flows in the primary winding. The charging voltage of the cycle control capacitor is changed with a periodic cycle Tc sufficiently longer than an oscillation cycle To to make the oscillation cycle To of continuous oscillating operation variable based on the periodic cycle Tc. As a result, the frequency of a harmonic is distributed.
US08582306B2 Modular component chassis coupling system
A modular component chassis coupling system includes a chassis having a first component coupling feature and a second component coupling feature located on opposite sides of a housing. A modular component includes a first chassis coupling feature and a second chassis coupling feature. A first handle is coupled to the first chassis coupling feature that is operable to engage the first component coupling feature to move the first handle into a coupling position and, once in the coupling position, the first handle is moved into a securing position to secure the modular component in the housing. A second handle is coupled to the second chassis coupling feature and is operable to engage the second component coupling feature to move the second handle into a coupling position and, once in the coupling position, the second handle is moved into a securing position to secure the modular component in the housing.
US08582305B1 Power cable connection and disconnection using a power attachment assembly (PAA)
A power connection system includes a power attachment assembly (PAA) to house power cables that transport electrical power, where the cables are terminated by a connector associated with the PAA; and a power supply to provide the power to a network device, where the power supply includes another connector and a group of circuit breakers that correspond to the cables. The PAA and the power supply permit the cables to be connected to the power supply, and permit the connector and the other connector to be connected to form a junction via which the power is transported. The circuit breakers, when turned on, permit the power to be received from the cables via the PAA. The system also includes a handle to disconnect the PAA from the power supply in a manner that turns off the circuit breakers prior to disconnecting the PAA from the power supply.
US08582302B2 Modular equipment rack system for data center
Various technologies described herein pertain to racking equipment in a data center. A modular equipment rack system can include an upper track, a lower track, a vertical support, a power and network distribution unit, and a tray. The upper track and the lower track can respectively include incrementally spaced mounting locations at which the vertical support and the power and network distribution unit can be attachable. The tray can be attachable to the vertical support and the power and network distribution unit when the vertical support is attached to the upper track at a first upper mounting location and attached to the lower track at a corresponding first lower mounting location, and the power and network distribution unit is attached to the upper track at a second upper mounting location and attached to the lower track at a corresponding second lower mounting location.
US08582295B2 Electronic system
An electronic system includes an electronic device and a heat exchanger for exchanging heat with the device. The heat exchanger includes a flow duct for receiving a fluid, at least a portion of the flow duct being arranged in thermal communication with the device. The system further includes a pump associated with the flow duct and a Venturi tube for reducing the pressure of the fluid in the portion of the flow duct to a value less than the pressure external to the duct, to minimize any leakage of the fluid onto the device in the event the portion of the flow duct develops a leak.
US08582292B1 Integrated ventilation system for electronic equipment
One embodiment of a method of providing ventilation to electronic equipment comprises receiving exhaust air flow from first electronic equipment positioned next to a ventilation structure; directing the exhaust air flow out of exhaust fan assembly of the ventilation structure; receiving cold air from an intake fan assembly of the ventilation structure; and directing the cold air to an intake vent of second electronic equipment positioned next to the ventilation structure.
US08582286B2 Removable storage system for server bay
A dock couples a removable data storage cartridge, for example an RDX cartridge, to a computing device. The dock includes a chassis having frontal dimensions configured to substantially match the nominal frontal dimensions of a low profile large format disk drive, such that the dock may reside in a bay in the computing device sized to receive a low profile large format disk drive. The dock may include a door that swings about an axis aligned with the height of the door.
US08582270B2 PTC device, protective circuit module including the same, and secondary battery including the protective circuit module
A Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) device, a Protective Circuit Module (PCM) including the PTC device, and a secondary battery including the Protective Circuit Module (PCM) are provided. A support portion is formed at one end of a conductive plate of the PTC device, a conductive layer disposed on the upper portion of the PTC main body is fixed to the Protective Circuit Module (PCM), and the support portion is fixed by a coated adhesive that is melted at a high temperature and then hardens when the high temperature is removed, thereby preventing the PTC device from swaying or twisting.
US08582262B2 Active current surge limiters with disturbance sensor and multistage current limiting
Active current surge limiters and methods of use are disclosed. One exemplary system, among others, comprises a current limiter, including an interface configured to be connected between a power supply and a load; a disturbance sensor, configured to monitor the power supply for a disturbance during operation of the load; and an activator, configured to receive a control signal from the disturbance sensor and to activate the current limiter based on the control signal.
US08582258B1 Electrostatic discharge protection circuit for integrated circuits
An electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit for an integrated circuit (IC) that provides ESD protection during an ESD event is disclosed. The electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit includes a first electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component and a second electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component coupled in series to the first electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component. A snapback holding voltage of the electrostatic discharge protection circuit is greater than the operating voltage of the electrostatic discharge protection circuit and a snapback trigger voltage of the electrostatic discharge protection circuit is lower than an oxide breakdown voltage of said integrated circuit.
US08582250B2 Double biasing for trilayer MR sensors
A trilayer magnetoresistive sensor has at least first and second ferromagnetic layers separated by a nonmagnetic layer. A high coercivity permanent magnet bias element biases the first ferromagnetic layer in a first direction. A high moment permanent magnet bias element biases the second ferromagnetic layer in a second direction substantially orthogonal to the first direction.
US08582247B2 Magnetic element with increased scissoring angle
An apparatus and associated method is presently disclosed for a data sensing element capable of detecting changes in magnetic states. Various embodiments of the present invention are generally directed to a magnetically responsive lamination that has a spacer layer disposed between a first and second ferromagnetic free layer. The lamination having at least one free layer with a shape feature that increases a scissoring angle between the free layers.
US08582236B2 Magnetic write device with a cladded write assist element
A magnetic device includes a write element having a write element tip and a conductor adjacent an edge of the write element tip for carrying current to generate an assist field that augments a write field generated by the write element. A cladding material is disposed on at least one surface of the conductor.
US08582234B2 Shaped magnetic write pole
A magnetic shield is adjacent a write pole. The write pole has a body portion with a body thickness and an extension portion with parallel first and second sides that each tilt towards the magnetic shield at a predetermined angle proximal to an air bearing surface (ABS). The extension portion may be capable of enhancing a write field gradient of the magnetic shield by reducing magnetic saturation.
US08582231B1 Disk drive determining head touchdown threshold based on curve fitting prediction error
A disk drive is disclosed comprising a head actuated over a disk. An analog touchdown (TD) signal is compared to a TD threshold in order to generate a calibrated TD threshold for a plurality of different dynamic fly height (DFH) settings. The calibrated TD thresholds and corresponding DFH settings are fitted to an estimated curve. At least one of the TD threshold and the DFH setting is adjusted, and a corresponding next point in the estimated curve is predicted. An actual next point corresponding to the adjustment is determined, and a prediction error is generated based on a difference between the predicted next point and the actual next point. A touchdown of the head on the disk is detected when the prediction error exceeds a prediction threshold.
US08582225B2 Microwave-assisted magnetic recording head and magnetic read/write apparatus using the same
A microwave-assisted magnetic recording head includes: a main magnetic pole that generates a recording magnetic field to be recorded on a magnetic recording medium; a shield; and an oscillator that is provided between the main magnetic pole and the shield and generates a microwave magnetic field. The microwave-assisted magnetic recording head is provided with a thermal expansion device for adjusting a relative position between the oscillator and the main magnetic pole so as to be able to independently adjust a recording magnetic field from the main magnetic pole and a microwave magnetic field from the oscillator.
US08582223B1 Methods and devices for two-dimensional iterative multi-track based map detection
Decoding data written over a plurality of tracks includes selecting a mask that accounts for Inter-Symbol-Interference, the mask including channel coefficients and defining a trellis defining a plurality of states; receiving a signal corresponding to an input pixel from each of the plurality of tracks and generating equalized samples therefrom; computing transition branch probabilities for each input vector based on a Gaussian noise distribution using the equalized samples, ideal samples and a priori probabilities of the input vector; computing forward and backward probabilities via recursions using the computed transition branch probabilities; combining the forward, backward and transition branch probabilities to generate a-posteriori probabilities for the input vector; marginalizing the a-posteriori probabilities over values of neighboring pixels to generate an a-posteriori probability for a pixel of the input vector in a given state, and decoding the pixel as a first or second logical state from the marginalized a-posteriori probabilities.
US08582221B2 Lens module having a square lens
A lens module includes a holder defining a cavity and a barrel retained within the cavity, and includes a first optical axis X aligned with an imaginary axis of the cavity, a frame defining a through hole and comprising several blocking portions, and a square lens possessing a second optical axis Y. The frame is coupled to the holder, and an imaginary axis of the through hole is aligned with the axis of the cavity. The square lens is connected to the frame and includes four side surfaces abutting the several blocking portions, which precisely aligns the second optical axis Y with the imaginary axis of the through hole.
US08582215B2 Photographing optical lens assembly
This invention provides a photographing optical lens assembly, from an object side to an image side in order, comprising a first lens element with positive refractive power having a convex object-side surface, a second lens element with negative refractive power having a concave image-side surface, a third lens element with positive refractive power, a fourth lens element with negative refractive power having a concave image-side surface, both the two surfaces of the fourth lens thereof being aspheric. And an aperture stop is positioned between the first element and the second lens element. There are four lens elements with refractive power in the lens assembly.
US08582212B2 Zoom lens, and imaging apparatus incorporating the same
The invention provides a zoom lens, characterized by comprising, in order from an object side thereof, a first lens group of positive refracting power, a second lens group of negative refracting power, a third lens group of positive refracting power, and a fourth lens group of negative refracting power, upon zooming from a wide-angle end to a telephoto end of the zoom lens, a separation between the respective lens group changes, a separation between the first lens group and the second lens group becomes narrow, and a separation between the second lens group and the third lens group grows wide; upon focusing from a focusing-on-infinity state to a close-range focusing state, the fourth lens group moves in an optical axis direction; and Conditions (1) and (2) are satisfied at the wide-angle end.
US08582198B2 Information display panel
In an information display system panel, color filters each having respective colors are arranged to an outer surface of a transparent substrate at an observation side having a refractive index n and a thickness d, in such a manner that an overlap area between the color filter and the pixel is set in a range of 50%-100% with respect to an area of the pixel, so that a portion between adjacent color filters having different colors, which is perpendicular to a tilt visual direction, is spaced at either one of an upper and lower sides and a right and left sides of the color filter; and a relation between a visual filed displacement I indicated by following formula (1), which is generated when the image displayed by the display media is viewed as a reflected light refracted at 45° with respect to a surface of the color filter, and LS and DS denoting a pixel pitch and a pixel space along a visual direction respectively, satisfies I≦0.5×(DS+LS); I=d×[sin2 θ/(n2−sin2 θ)]1/2 θ=45°  formula (1). According to the invention, an information display panel which can prevent a color mixture with the adjacent pixel when viewed at a slant angle and can perform a color display having an excellent color reproducibility can be obtained.
US08582194B2 Thermally responsive crystalline colloidal arrays
A thermally responsive material comprising an ordered periodic array of particles received in a substantially nonaqueous matrix composition. The material diffracts radiation in a first wavelength band when the material is at a first temperature and the material diffracts radiation in a second wavelength band when the material is at a second temperature.
US08582193B2 Electrochromic devices
Conventional electrochromic devices frequently suffer from poor reliability and poor performance. Improvements are made using entirely solid and inorganic materials. Electrochromic devices are fabricated by forming an ion conducting electronically insulating interfacial region that serves as an IC layer. In some methods, the interfacial region is formed after formation of an electrochromic and a counter electrode layer. The interfacial region contains an ion conducting electronically insulating material along with components of the electrochromic and/or the counter electrode layer. Materials and microstructure of the electrochromic devices provide improvements in performance and reliability over conventional devices.
US08582185B2 Image reader and correction process for read image
According to an embodiment of the present invention, an image reader comprises a plurality of light receiving elements configured to receive light from an object to be read and to convert the light into image signals. The image reader further comprises means for determining a distance between the object and the plurality of light receiving elements at a plurality of different positions of the object. Moreover the image reader comprises means for selecting at least one correction process portion based at least on the distance between the object and the plurality of light receiving elements. The image reader comprises means for applying the at least one selected correction process to the image signal.
US08582182B2 Automatic sizing of images acquired by a handheld scanner
A computer peripheral that may operate as a scanner. The scanner captures image frames as it is moved across an object. The image frames are formed into a composite image based on computations in two processes. In a first process, fast track processing determines a coarse position of each of the image frames based on a relative position between each successive image frame and a respective preceding image determine by matching overlapping portions of the image frames. In a second process, fine position adjustments are computed to reduce inconsistencies from determining positions of image frames based on relative positions to multiple prior image frames. As additional image frames are added to the composite image, the size and format of the composite image may be automatically adjusted to facilitate ease of use.
US08582180B2 Image forming apparatus and image forming method with image density correction
An image forming apparatus having an image forming unit forming a gradation image includes density detection, gradation correction, and mechanism control units. The density detection unit detects gradation image density. The gradation correction control unit controls a change of gradation characteristic. The mechanism control unit controls the image forming unit and a change of image density, and includes density difference calculation and comparison judging units. The density difference calculation unit calculates density difference between target image density and the image density. The comparison judging unit compares the density difference with reference value and judges the image density to change and the gradation correction unit to operate where the density difference exceeds the reference value, or judges the gradation correction unit to operate where the density difference is below the reference value. The mechanism control unit controls the change of image density and the gradation correction unit according to judgment result.
US08582173B2 Color processing apparatus and method
A color processing apparatus includes an input range obtaining unit configured to obtain an input range of input color data represented by a first color space that is an extended color space, a setting unit configured to set grid point coordinate values for each of a plurality of color components included in the input color data, and a generating unit configured to generate a look-up table by performing conversion processing on each of look-up-table coordinate values corresponding to grid point coordinate values set for the plurality of color components, and storing a result of the conversion processing in the look-up table. The setting unit sets the grid point coordinate values such that each of the primary colors in a second color space that is a base color space is located at a grid point and the color components have the identical grid point coordinate values among the primary colors.
US08582164B2 Generating merged documents
A method and apparatus for generation of electronic documents, such as a merge utility, is disclosed. In an embodiment, the merge utility merges two types of documents at least one of which is first converted from a format that is not supported by an output device to one that is. In an embodiment, one document may contain information related to an overlay and the other may contain information related to a background. In an embodiment, the conversion is performed in a format that is supported by an output device.
US08582157B2 Image forming apparatus with a tag reader changing reading position by movement of front cover
An image forming apparatus including a wireless tag reader is described. The wireless tag reader is configured to be located in a first position to read wireless tags associated with consumables when the consumables are inserted into, stationary in, or removed from the image forming apparatus, and in a second position to read wireless tags outside of the image forming apparatus.
US08582150B2 Information processing apparatus and method thereof
An information processing apparatus configured to calculate an in-operation time of an image processing apparatus includes an authentication log acquisition unit configured to acquire an authentication log including information capable of specifying login time and logout time of a login process in the image processing apparatus, a job log acquisition unit configured to acquire a job log including information capable of specifying job start time and job end time of a job processed by the image processing apparatus, and a calculation unit configured to calculate the in-operation time of the image processing apparatus based on a first in-operation period corresponding to a job processing period specified by the job log and a second in-operation period corresponding to a period which does not overlap a job processing period specified from a job log relating to the authentication log, in a login period specified from the authentication log.
US08582141B2 Avoiding deadlock in network printing
A method and apparatus for printing over a network where a user at a client device is able to print to a network printer via a server device. The server device includes a print driver that initializes an asynchronous communication channel, sends notification message data to a client device over a network via the asynchronous communication channel, receives data from the client device in response to delivery of the notification message data, and requests user input data from the client device for printing.
US08582140B2 Communication system and communication apparatus building the system
Facsimile image data received from a normal facsimile apparatus connected to a general telephone network can be transmitted as an e-mail to the e-mail address of a computer network such as a LAN or the like designated by the source facsimile apparatus. An apparatus has a LAN I/F (6-14) for connecting to the LAN, and a line I/F (6-6) for connecting to the public telephone network. Upon reception of a remote instruction from the public telephone network, a CPU (6-3) converts received facsimile image data into e-mail data, and transmits the converted e-mail data to the e-mail address designated by the received remote instruction.
US08582132B2 Print format transform mechanism
A method disclosed. The method includes receiving a Portable Document Format (PDF) print job file, applying a first transform to generate an Advanced Function Presentation (AFP) image print job data stream and applying a second transform to generate an AFP text print job data stream.
US08582126B2 Support method for simulating a printing operation
A design support method of verifying control on a device of an image forming apparatus registers, in a storage device, trigger information for specifying a content of control to be executed when a start condition for switching the control state of the device is satisfied (S1002). The apparatus then registers, in the storage device, the allowable range of the state change of the device due to control switched when the start condition is satisfied (S1003). The apparatus then verifies whether the state change of the device due to the control switched when the start condition is satisfied falls outside the allowable range, by referring to the operation state of the device which is input through an input unit, and the trigger information registered in the storage device (S1004).
US08582125B2 Variable support structure and media sheet separator
In one embodiment, a structure comprises a pliable sheet and first and second stationary supports extending along and supporting the sheet. The supports are oriented relative to one another such that a distance between the supports at one part of the sheet is greater than a distance between the supports at another part of the sheet. In another embodiment, a sheet media input structure comprises a sheet media supporting surface and a media sheet separator downstream from the supporting surface along a media path that extends from the supporting surface to and along the separator. The separator is configured to separate a top sheet on the stack from a next-to-top sheet in the stack by resisting the movement of sheets along the media path and the degree of resistance varies along the length of the separator.
US08582119B2 Large scale metrology apparatus and method
A metrology system that uses a plurality of photo-detecting targets positioned on the objects to be assembled, a plurality of rotating photo-emitting heads, a master signal generator that generates a reference RF signal, and a signal processor that determines the position of each of the targets from signals generated by each target in response to the photo-emitting heads. During operation, the reference RF signal is broadcast to the rotating photo-emitting heads and the photo-detecting targets. The RF signal is used to determine the azimuth of the heads relative to a zero reference position to a high degree of accuracy.
US08582118B2 Optical detecting device, display device, and electronic equipment
An optical detecting device including: an emission unit that emits emitting light; a light-receiving unit that receives the emitting light reflected off an object; an amplifying unit that amplifies a received-light detection signal of the light-receiving unit; a detecting unit that detects position identifying information of the object based on a signal output from the amplifying unit; a determining unit that determines a position of the object based on the position identifying information; and a coupling capacitor provided between an output node of the amplifying unit and an input node of the detecting unit.
US08582108B2 Integrated plasmonic sensing device and apparatus
An integrated plasmonic sensing device is monolithically integrated and provides marker-free detection (eliminating the need to use fluorescent or absorbing markers) and in-situ monitoring of conditions at each detection region. The integrated plasmonic sensing device includes a plasmonic backplane disposed on a monolithically integrated image sensor. One or more plasmonic scattering regions and one or more plasmonic via regions laterally offset from the plasmonic scattering regions are provided in the plasmonic sensing device. Guided plasmonic modes mediate power transfer through the plasmonic backplane to one or more underlying image sensor pixels.
US08582103B2 Bulbless spectrometer
The present invention creates a spectrometer (1; 1′) for measuring the concentration of at least one analyte in a fluid sample (2; 2′), with a light source (3; 3′) to generate a light beam (4; 4′), with a photosensor (5; 5′) to receive the light beam (4; 4′), and with a measurement length (6; 6′), in which the fluid sample (2; 2′) can be placed, in the beam path of the light beam (4; 4′), the measurement length (6; 6′) being provided in changeable form.
US08582102B2 TFT-LCD array substrate, method and apparatus for detecting size or alignment deviation of multilayer patterns
An embodiment provides a thin film transistor liquid crystal display (TFT-LCD) array substrate comprising a substrate and multilayer array patterns formed on the substrate, and a detecting mark, which is used to detect the size or alignment deviation of one array pattern among the multilayer array patterns and provided in a region of the substrate where the multilayer array patterns are not provided. The detecting mark comprises a detecting area and a detecting pattern which is provided in the same layer as the array pattern to be detected, the detecting pattern is located within the detecting area, and the detecting pattern has transmissivity or reflectivity different from that of the remaining area in the detecting area other than the detecting pattern.
US08582098B2 Single photon spectrometer
A fiberized single photon sensitive spectrometer based on a 32-channel PMT sensor is highly sensitive with broad detection dynamic range. The spectrometer enables accurate and high speed detection, identification and analysis of biological samples labeled with multiple fluorescent markers, such as compositions of multi-color fluorescence signals or radiation emitted by multiple fluorescence dyes. A fiberized optical input of the spectrometer allows an easy and efficient coupling to any measurement system based on fiber collection of the analyzed fluorescence. The spectrometer provides highly accurate DNA sequencing. A 32 channel PMT single photon detector has a detection dynamic range of more than 20 bits and has a frame rate of about 3300 frames per second. The dynamic range of the detector's pixels reaches 108 photocounts per second.
US08582096B2 System and method for efficient coherence anti-stokes raman scattering endoscopic and intravascular imaging and multimodal imaging
A fiber-delivered probe suitable for CARS imaging of thick tissues is practical. The disclosed design is based on two advances. First, a major problem in CARS probe design is the presence of a very strong anti-Stokes component in silica delivery fibers generated through a FWM process. Without proper spectral filtering, this component affects the CARS image from the tissue sample. The illustrated embodiments of the invention efficiently suppress this spurious anti-Stokes component through the use of a separate fiber for excitation delivery and for signal detection, which allows the incorporation of dichroic optics for anti-Stokes rejection. Second, the detection of backscattered CARS radiation from the sample is optimized by using a large core multi mode fiber in the detection channel. This scheme produces high quality CARS images free of detector aperture effects. Miniaturization of this fiber-delivered probe results in a practical handheld probe for clinical CARS imaging.
US08582093B2 Signal light monitoring apparatus and signal light monitoring method
An optical filter performs filtering on input monitor light in a transmission range having a carrier frequency of each channel being measured as a center frequency. Photoelectric convertors convert the monitor light filtered by the optical filter into an electrical monitor signal, and the signal detection unit judges whether signal light is present or absent based on the electrical monitor signal. Since the optical filter performs filtering, an S/N ratio of the monitor light becomes great and the signal detection unit can more accurately judge whether signal light is present or absent even in an optically noisy environment.
US08582091B2 Vision-based headlamp aiming
A method for accurately aiming vehicle headlamps, with apparatus for practicing the method. A vision system, including a digital camera, is positioned in front of a headlamp, in communication with a control device. The control device employs pattern recognition to identify the optical axis indicia within the headlamp, and based on the identified location of that indicia, the control system accurately aligns a beamsetter with the optical axis of the headlamp.
US08582085B2 Chirped coherent laser radar with multiple simultaneous measurements
A laser radar system using collocated laser beams to unambiguously detects a range of a target and a range rate at which the target is moving relative to the laser radar system. Another aspect of various embodiments of the invention may relate to a laser radar system that uses multiple laser radar sections to obtain multiple simultaneous measurements (or substantially so), whereby both range and range rate can be determined without various temporal effects introduced by systems employing single laser sections taking sequential measurements. In addition, other aspects of various embodiments of the invention may enable faster determination of the range and rate of the target, a more accurate determination of the range and rate of the target, and/or may provide other advantages.
US08582074B2 In-line system and a method for manufacturing a liquid crystal display
Disclosed is an in-line system and a method for manufacturing a liquid crystal display. The system includes a spacer-dispersing unit for dispersing spacers on one of two substrates of a mother glass, the mother glass having at least one liquid crystal cell; a sealant-applying unit for depositing a sealant on one of the two substrates; a liquid crystal depositing unit for depositing liquid crystal material on the substrate on which the sealant is deposited; and a substrate-attaching unit for receiving the two substrates from the sealant-applying unit or the liquid crystal depositing unit, then conjoining the substrates in a vacuum state. The method includes the steps of dispersing spacers on one of two substrates of a mother glass, the mother glass having at least one liquid crystal cell; depositing sealant on one of the two substrates; depositing liquid crystal material on the substrate where the sealant is deposited; and conjoining the substrates in a vacuum state to complete the manufacture of a liquid crystal panel.
US08582071B2 Display panel and method for fabricating the same
A method for fabricating a display panel is provided. The method includes steps of: disposing a seal on a first substrate, in which a first side of the seal connects in approximately perpendicular to a second side of the seal and has at least one liquid crystal inlet; forming at least one block on the first substrate and between the liquid crystal inlet and the connection of the first side and the second side of the seal, in which there is a space between the block and the first side of the seal when the block is formed; and pressing a second substrate against the first substrate having the seal and the block thereon, such that the block adjoins the first side of the seal after the second substrate is pressed.
US08582069B2 Liquid crystal device and projection-type display apparatus
A liquid crystal device and a projection-type display apparatus provided with the liquid crystal device are provided in which it is possible to prevent an electrochemical corrosion reaction from occurring in the course of a process. An aluminum film constituting a first terminal and a first electrode for inter-substrate connection formed to be electrically separated (insulated) from each other on one face side of a first substrate of the liquid crystal device, an ITO film constituting a dummy pixel electrode and a second electrode of inter-substrate connection, a common electrode (second substrate side electrode) formed on a second substrate are electrically connected by an inter-substrate connection member provided between the first substrate and the second substrate.
US08582067B2 Array substrate, liquid crystal panel, liquid crystal display and driving method thereof
An array substrate is provided. The array substrate comprises a base substrate, a plurality of pixel units are provided on the base substrate in a matrix form, a common electrode and a pixel electrode are provided in each of the pixel units, the common electrode is connected with a common electrode line and the pixel electrode is connected with a data line through a switching element. The pixel units in the matrix form comprise a first pixel unit and a second pixel unit. When polarities of voltage difference between the pixel electrode and the common electrode in the first pixel unit is identical to that in the second pixel unit, the direction of an electric field formed between the pixel electrode and the common electrode and for driving liquid crystal molecules to display at a gray level in the first pixel unit is opposite to that in the second pixel unit.
US08582066B2 Liquid crystal display device having a plurality of slip electrode portions with curved portions that are overlapped by a plurality of openings
Provided is a liquid crystal display device that includes a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between two substrates, one of which includes a pixel electrode and a common electrode, where the electrode that is disposed closer to the liquid crystal layer has a stripe pattern that includes a plurality of slip electrode portions, and each of the plurality of slip electrode portions includes a curved portion at which each of the plurality of the slip electrode portions changes a stretching direction, and where the other electrode has a solid flat shape provided with a plurality of openings at locations that overlap with the curved portions of the plurality of slip electrode portions, the plurality of openings being provided in a manner that makes the opening in one curved portion independent and that allows only a convex outline segment of the slip electrode portion to run through an area of the opening.
US08582062B2 2D/3D switchable display
A 2D/3D switchable display, including a display unit adapted to display an image, and a lens unit on the display unit, wherein the lens unit includes a first lens substrate on the display unit and including a first electrode array including a plurality of first electrodes that are spaced apart from each other, a second lens substrate on the first lens substrate and including a second electrode array including a plurality of second electrodes that are spaced apart from each other, and a liquid crystal layer between the first lens substrate and the second lens substrate.
US08582061B2 Optical film assembly and display device having the same
An optical film assembly includes a first polarization plate disposed below a liquid crystal layer and having a first absorption axis, a second polarization plate disposed above the liquid crystal layer and having a second absorption axis, an A-plate disposed between the first polarization plate and the second polarization plate, and a negative C-plate disposed between the first polarization plate and the second polarization plate. A thickness-direction phase retardation value of the negative C-plate is equal to or less than a value acquired by subtracting about 75 nanometers from a thickness-direction phase retardation value of the liquid crystal layer and the thickness-direction phase retardation value of the negative C-plate is equal to or greater than a value acquired by subtracting about 275 nanometers from the thickness-direction phase retardation value of the liquid crystal layer.
US08582051B2 Backlight unit and the display device having the same
Provided are a backlight unit and a display device having the same. The backlight unit configured to emit light onto a liquid crystal panel in which one screen is defined into a plurality of display areas includes a bottom frame having a bottom surface and a sidewall, a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) disposed on the bottom surface of the bottom frame, the plurality of LEDs defining a plurality of light emitting areas corresponding to the display areas of the liquid crystal panel, at least one module board supporting the plurality of LEDs, an integrated light guide plate covering the plurality of LEDs, the integrated light guide plate being disposed on the plurality of light emitting areas corresponding to one screen, and an alignment unit for aligning the integrated light guide plate with the plurality of LEDs.
US08582045B2 Liquid crystal display device
Disclosed is a liquid crystal display (LCD) device having a protection member capable of enhancing reliability against an external impact, and an outdoor visibility against an external light. The LCD device comprises: an LC panel for displaying images; a backlight unit disposed below the LC panel, and providing light; a protection member provided on the LC panel, and consisting of a tempered substrate for protecting the LC panel from an external impact, and an anti-reflect layer formed on the tempered substrate and reducing a reflectivity of external light; and an adhesive layer formed of a material having a similar refractivity to the LC panel and the tempered substrate of the protection member, for adhering the protection member onto the LC panel by being interposed therebetween.
US08582044B2 Liquid crystal display and repairing method thereof
A liquid crystal display includes a plurality of data lines and a plurality of pixels arranged in a matrix, wherein the plurality of pixels include a first pixel and a second pixel, and each of the first pixel and the second pixel includes a first subpixel electrode and a second subpixel electrode, a first switching element, a second switching element, a third switching element, and a voltage-changing capacitor, wherein a first source electrode on the first switching element and a second source electrode on the second switching element from the first pixel are connected to a data line, the first source electrode and the second source electrode of the second pixel are disconnected from the plurality of data lines, and the two terminals of the voltage-changing capacitor of the second pixel are shorted to each other.
US08582028B2 Multi-monitor control
A multi-monitor display is disclosed. A multi-monitor display receives a video data stream configured for a single H×V video display; splits the video data stream into a plurality of video data streams for transmission to a plurality of displays which, together, substantially span the H×V display.
US08582021B2 Lens unit, camera body, and camera device which determines whether the accumulated exposure time is above a value
A camera device includes a lens unit and a camera body detachable from the lens unit a communication interface communicably connecting the lens unit and the camera body. The lens unit includes an optical system, a diaphragm controller, an imaging portion including an image sensor, an image processor, a storage medium in which an accumulated exposure time and a limit exposure time of the image sensor are stored. The camera body includes a determiner portion which determines whether or not the accumulated exposure time is over the limit exposure time, and a notifying portion which notifies that the accumulated exposure time is over the limit exposure time when the determiner portion determines that the accumulated exposure time is over the limit exposure time.
US08582015B2 Image pickup apparatus
An image pickup apparatus including: an image pickup device for receiving subject light passed through a photographing optical system by an image pickup surface in which a pixel arrangement is formed, and generating an image signal; and an optically transparent film having an optical anisotropy, and disposed in front of the image pickup surface, the subject light entering the optically transparent film; wherein a width of separation between a first ray of light and a second ray of light produced by birefringence in the optically transparent film is ½ or more of a pixel pitch in the pixel arrangement.
US08582005B2 Method, apparatus and system providing adjustment of pixel defect map
A method, apparatus and system that allows for the identification of defective pixels, for example, defective pixel clusters, in an imager device. The method, apparatus and system determine, during use of the imager device, that a pixel defect, e.g., cluster defect, exists and accurately maps the location of the defective pixel. By analyzing more than one frame of an image, the method increases the accuracy of the defect mapping, which is used to improve the quality of the resulting image data.
US08581991B1 Integrated internet camera system and method
An integrated Internet camera system method comprises a website archive and review center (WSARC) for storing and managing images and an Internet direct device for capturing an image, automatically transmitting the image to an account associated with the Internet direct device on the WSARC upon image capture and receiving stored image from the WSARC. The Internet direct device comprises an imaging system, a microprocessor and a display for displaying the captured image and the received image. The Internet direct device automatically connects to the communication network on power-up. The Internet direct device automatically switches to another available mode of connection when the Internet direct device detects that the primary mode of connection to the communications network is unavailable.
US08581990B2 Image processing apparatus, controlling method thereof, and recording medium
An image processing apparatus connects to a memory card with a communication function which includes a storage unit and a transmission unit configured to transmit data stored in the storage unit to an external apparatus, receives a transmission state of data stored in the memory card with the communication function from the memory card with the communication function, and discriminates a data type that the transmission unit can transmit. If the data type for determining the transmission state is a data type that the transmission unit can transmit, the image processing apparatus receives the transmission state from the memory card with the communication function and if the data type for determining the transmission state is not a data type that the transmission unit can transmit, the image processing apparatus does not receive the transmission state from the memory card with the communication function.
US08581989B2 External storage device and camera
An external storage device includes: a read out unit that reads out management information in a camera, regarding an image file that is stored within the camera; an identification unit that identifies information on specifying device to which the image file was transmitted, based upon the management information read out by the read out unit; a selection unit that selects an image file to be received from the camera, on the basis of a result of identification by the identification unit; and a reception unit that receives the selected image file.
US08581988B2 Data transfer apparatus, imaging apparatus, and data transfer system
The data transfer apparatus includes a recording unit which records image files on a first recording medium, a communication unit which communicates with a recording apparatus which records an image file on a second recording medium, and receives medium information associated with the second recording medium from the recording apparatus, a search unit which searches a plurality of image files recorded on the first recording medium for image files which are recordable on the second recording medium, based on the medium information, and a display control unit which displays representative images of the plurality of image files recorded on the first recording medium, and the display control unit displays, together with the representative images, information indicating a range of image files recordable on the second recording medium of the plurality of image files recorded on the first recording medium, based on a search result of the search unit.
US08581971B2 Endoscope system
The endoscope system of the present invention includes: an endoscope that has an image pickup device that picks up an observation image of a test object; an image display unit that converts image pickup signals that have been sent from the image pickup device into images and then displays these images; a first mounting portion that is provided in an operating section of the endoscope and on which the image display unit is mounted; and a second mounting portion that is provided in the operating section of the endoscope and on which the image display unit is mounted in a different position from that of the first mounting portion.
US08581969B2 Single display system and method for displaying stereoscopic content
A single display system and method are provided for displaying stereoscopic content. In particular, a single display mechanism capable of displaying stereoscopic content for viewing with passive glasses is provided.
US08581968B2 Notification system, shutter glasses, notification method
In one embodiment, there is provided a notification system. The system includes: a display apparatus; and one or more pairs of shutter glasses. The display apparatus includes: a display module configured to display a 3D picture; and a transmitter configured to transmit a control data to each of the pairs of shutter glasses, wherein the control data contains a shutter control data for controlling shutters of each of the pairs of shutter glasses. Each of the pairs of shutter glasses includes: a receiver configured to receive the control data containing shutter control data; a shutter controller configured to open and close the right eye shutter and the left eye shutter, based on the shutter control data; and a notification module configured to notify a warning when a specific period of time has elapsed after the receiver receives the control data.
US08581961B2 Stereoscopic panoramic video capture system using surface identification and distance registration technique
A method of interpolating images from original images are disclosed. Interpolation of images is based on the captured images, normal vector of the image segment plane and distance between the camera and the original image. Image segment groups retrieved are selected in order to discard and select only the image segment groups that meet criteria. Further processing of applying a shape change, merging the interpolated images and smoothing of the merged images provide interpolated images for viewing at angle of a virtual camera.
US08581960B2 Imaging device, imaging method, and imaging system
The present invention is an imaging apparatus including: a receiving unit that receives information representing a first focal length from a terminal which produces an image of a first imaging area by capturing an image of a subject at the first focal length; an imaging unit that produces an image of a second imaging area by capturing an image of the subject at a second focal length; an extraction unit that extracts a characteristic area of the subject from the image of the second imaging area based on information representing the first focal length and information representing the second focal length; and a transmitting unit that transmits information regarding the image of the characteristic area to the terminal.
US08581957B2 Video conference using an external video stream
A portable communication device may determine whether a video camera is in a vicinity of the portable communication device. If so, video taken by the video camera may be used in a video conference conducted from the portable communication device.
US08581950B2 Image forming apparatus and method of the same
According to one embodiment, a laser controller generates a signal which corresponds to an output signal of a laser beam detection sensor before detecting an abnormality, in which the abnormality is detected, in a pseudo manner, on the basis of an output signal of a laser beam detection sensor in which the abnormality is not detected. In addition, the laser controller controls a laser unit which corresponds to the laser beam detection sensor in which the abnormality is detected, according to the generated signal.
US08581947B2 Printer, printing system and computer-readable meduim having instructions for printing
A printer having a ribbon heated by energization of a thermal head to transfer color ink and transparent laminate material from the ribbon to a recording medium. The printer includes a first storage section configured to store ink energization data, a second storage section configured to store laminate energization data an energization controlling section, and a correction section that corrects the laminate energization data in response to a residual heat quantity of the thermal head after the ink is thermally transferred in accordance with stored ink energization data and corrects the laminate energization data.
US08581946B2 Driving device, optical print head and image forming device
When the cathode of a light emitting thyristor is at the low (L) level, voltage is applied between the anode and cathode of the light emitting thyristor. In addition, because the gate of each thyristor and the gate of each light emitting thyristor are connected to each other in a self scanning circuit 100, voltage is also applied between the gate and cathode of the thyristor. At this time, by selectively turning only the gate of the light emitting thyristor, which is instructed by the self scanning circuit to emit light, to the high (H) level, the light emitting thyristor that is instructed is turned on. In particular, because an output signal of a clock driving circuit is differentiated by an RL differential circuit to generate an undershoot or overshoot waveform, the number of output terminals of the clock driving circuit can be reduced.
US08581939B2 Terminal device with display function
A display controller executes a comparison mode if a display state is switched to a second display state after one of multiple files is selected from a list of thumbnail images in a first display state. In the comparison mode, the display controller displays a magnified image of the selected file on a first display area at a size suitable for the number of magnified images displayed on the first display area at that time. Accordingly, a desired image can easily be selected from stored images in a terminal device with a display function such as a cell phone.
US08581935B2 Orientation-following display apparatus, orientation-following display method, and orientation-following display program
A display device has a screen that can be positioned in arbitrary postures including a reference posture relative to a space having a reference horizontal orientation. The screen has an xyz orthogonal coordinate system, and the posture of the screen in the space is defined by z-x-z Euler angles α, β, and γ of the xyz orthogonal coordinate system. The screen displays an image to enable recognition of the reference horizontal orientation of the space. A control device derives a specific parameter α+γ as an angle by which the image is rotated so that the reference horizontal orientation recognized from the image follows the reference horizontal orientation of the space when the image is displayed on the screen at arbitrary postures.
US08581932B2 Image display system
An image display system including: an image acquisition section that acquires a specific number of images of an imaging subject by imaging with an imaging section from different respective imaging positions; a detection section that detects regions of attention expressing specific loci of attention in each of the specific number of images acquired by the image acquisition section; and a selection section that selects, from combinations of the images, a combination of images for display as images on a display section, the combination of images having a minimum number of images having all of the loci of attention expressed by the regions of attention detected by the detection section in the specific number of images.
US08581929B1 Display of light field image data using a spatial light modulator at a focal length corresponding to a selected focus depth
A method and apparatus are shown that select a focus depth for digital light field image data that represents a scene having a plurality of objects at different focus depths, the selected focus depth corresponding to a layer of the digital light field image data at the selected focus depth, and display the layer of the digital light field image data by utilizing at least one spatial light modulator to present the layer of the digital light field image data at a focal length corresponding to the selected focus depth. A server is shown that communicates with at least one apparatus to facilitate performance of the method.
US08581923B2 Temporal color liquid crystal display
A temporal based system for reducing the color artifacts of a field sequential color based liquid crystal display.
US08581917B2 System, method, and computer program product for remote graphics processing
A system, method, and computer program product are provided for remote rendering of computer graphics. The system includes a graphics application program resident at a remote server. The graphics application is invoked by a user or process located at a client. The invoked graphics application proceeds to issue graphics instructions. The graphics instructions are received by a remote rendering control system. Given that the client and server differ with respect to graphics context and image processing capability, the remote rendering control system modifies the graphics instructions in order to accommodate these differences. The modified graphics instructions are sent to graphics rendering resources, which produce one or more rendered images. Data representing the rendered images is written to one or more frame buffers. The remote rendering control system then reads this image data from the frame buffers. The image data is transmitted to the client for display or processing. In an embodiment of the system, the image data is compressed before being transmitted to the client. In such an embodiment, the steps of rendering, compression, and transmission can be performed asynchronously in a pipelined manner.
US08581915B2 System and method for configuring a display pipeline using a network
Systems and methods are disclosed for video processing modules. More specifically a network is disclosed for processing data. The network comprises a register DMA controller adapted to support register access and at least one node adapted to the data. At least one link communicates with the node, and is adapted to transmit data and at least one network module communicates with at least the link, and is adapted to route data to at least the link.
US08581912B2 Dynamic subroutine linkage optimizing shader performance
Allocation of memory registers for shaders by a processor is described herein. For each shader, registers are allocated based on the shader's level of complexity. Simpler shader instances are restricted to a smaller number of memory registers. More complex shader instances are allotted more registers. To do so, developers' high level shading level (HLSL) language includes template classes of shaders that can later be replaced by complex or simple versions of the shader. The HLSL is converted to bytecode that can be used to rasterize pixels on a computing device.
US08581911B2 Training system and methods for dynamically injecting expression information into an animated facial mesh
A system and method for modifying facial animations to include expression and microexpression information is disclosed. Particularly, a system and method for applying actor-generated expression data to a facial animation, either in realtime or in storage is disclosed. Present embodiments may also be incorporated into a larger training program, designed to train users to recognize various expressions and microexpressions.
US08581909B2 Method for determining the characteristic points of a bridge on an airport map
The invention is an automatic method making it possible to determine the characteristic points of a bridge as well as their correct ordering on the basis of an airport database, with a view to allowing the correct graphical representation of the said bridge on a digitized airport map. One of the main advantages of the invention resides in its automatic character.
US08581906B2 Image processing apparatus and image processing method
According to one embodiment, an image processing apparatus includes a level storage module, an instruction receiving module, a switching module, and a resolution increasing module. The level storage module stores a super-resolution level in association with a video mode that indicates definition to display a video signal. The super-resolution level indicates intensity of super-resolution conversion, in which from a video signal having first resolution, a video signal is obtained that has second resolution higher than the first resolution. The instruction receiving module receives an instruction specifying a video mode. The switching module switches a video mode to the specified video mode. The resolution increasing module performs the super-resolution conversion at a super-resolution level corresponding to the specified video mode.
US08581905B2 Interactive three dimensional displays on handheld devices
Techniques are disclosed for rendering an anamorphic projection of 3D scene geometry on a handheld device using a correct asymmetric perspective geometry projection. Once pose of the handheld device is determined, a relative eye position may be inferred when the device is tilted away from an initial or default pose, based on data supplied by accelerometers. Thus, embodiments of the invention result in a holographic style display without the need for glasses or external sensing attachments.
US08581881B2 Driven shield for capacitive to touchpads
A conductive shield that is disposed near the sensor, wherein a signal is driven on the shield that is similar to the signal induced on the sensor, thereby reducing stray capacitances and protecting the sensor from external noise sources, and resulting in a stronger signal reaching the sensor.
US08581874B2 Touch screen device and methods thereof configured for a plurality of resolutions
Disclosed is a touch screen and a method of touch screen having a first plurality of sensor segments coupled to first scan lines and a second plurality of sensor segments being subsections of one of the first plurality of sensor segments, the second plurality of sensor segments including second scan lines that are bundled by a multiplexer configured to aggregate output of the second plurality of sensor segments into a single transmission channel. The individual output of the multiplexed sensor segments subsections can be either combined into a single signal for processing during a normal scan, or their individual output can be processed individually for higher resolution. Using two scans, the first a normal scan, and the second a higher resolution scan, the disclosed touch screen and methods zoom in on the proximity of the touched area and scans with a higher resolution the proximity only where it is needed.
US08581871B2 Narrow frame touch input sheet, manufacturing method of same, and conductive sheet used in narrow frame touch input sheet
A narrow frame touch input sheet, and a conductive sheet used in the narrow frame touch input sheet, are suitable for a capacitive touch sensor having a narrow frame and two layers of transparent conductive film patterns. The conductive sheet includes one or more transparent base sheets stacked into a layer, transparent conductive films, light-excluding conductive electrode films, and first resist layers, which are layered sequentially on the uppermost and lowermost surfaces thereof. The first resist layers are exposed simultaneously on both surfaces, and after development, the transparent and light-excluding conductive electrode films are simultaneously etched, the first resist layers are stripped away, then second resist layers are formed as coating on the both surfaces in an outer edge portion, so that the light-excluding conductive electrode films are etched only in the central window portions. Thus, circuit patterns of the transparent conductive films are exposed.
US08581869B2 Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and computer program
There is provided an information processing apparatus including a display section, a contact detection section which is provided on a surface at an opposite side of the display section, and an operation control section which decides, when a predetermined operation input is performed based on a detection result obtained by the contact detection section, not to execute predetermined operation processing corresponding to at least a part of the operation input to the contact detection section.
US08581862B2 Liquid crystal display device
In a liquid crystal display device in which a front window and a touch panel are bonded together with an adhesive sheet, a logo having plural layers is formed on a back side of the front window. A touch-panel flexible wiring substrate is mounted to the touch panel. A plane distance between an end portion of the plural layers of the logo and an end portion of the touch panel is set to greater than zero. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent a peeling stress on the adhesive sheet, even if a thickness of the adhesive sheet is smaller than the sum of a thickness of the touch-panel flexible wiring substrate and a thickness of the logo.
US08581856B2 Touch sensitive display apparatus using sensor input
Described herein is a system that includes a receiver component that receives gesture data from a sensor unit that is coupled to a body of a gloveless user, wherein the gesture data is indicative of a bodily gesture of the user, wherein the bodily gesture comprises movement pertaining to at least one limb of the gloveless user. The system further includes a location determiner component that determines location of the bodily gesture with respect to a touch-sensitive display apparatus. The system also includes a display component that causes the touch-sensitive display apparatus to display an image based at least in part upon the received gesture data and the determined location of the bodily gesture with respect to the touch-sensitive display apparatus.
US08581855B2 Jogbox for a coordinate measuring machine
Coordinate measuring machines typically include a jogbox that allows an operator to control movements of a probe with a joystick and dedicated buttons. By facilitating advanced interaction between the jogbox and the dimensional metrology application, the jogbox may be used to control most or all of the functional aspects of the dimensional metrology application, including, in some instances, control of the coordinate measuring machine. The jogbox may include an adaptability of communications protocol such that it may interact with any one of a number of types or brands of coordinate measuring machines. A dynamic and flexible display and/or user input system may be employed to facilitate the use of a single jogbox with different systems. Further, the inherent flexibility of various jogbox embodiments disclosed herein may allow different categories of users to select and/or customize a jogbox interface.
US08581850B2 Adaptive keyboard with physical feedback
The disclosure is directed at an adaptive keyboard having at least two key layouts, the adaptive keyboard for use with at least two applications, the keyboard comprising a processor for determining which of said at least two key layouts to display; a display portion having defined therein a set of keys, said display portion including a set of incisions thereby defining the keys; a set of actuators corresponding to each of the set of keys of the determined key layout; and a set of switches, each of the set of switches associated with at least one of the set of actuators.
US08581846B2 Sensing computer mouse having touch-sensitive members disposed on curved bottom surface
A sensing mouse includes a base, an upper cover, a plurality of touch-sensitive members and a controlling unit. The base has a curvy surface. The base is sheltered by the upper cover. The touch-sensitive members are disposed on the curvy surface and in communication with the controlling unit. When one of the touch-sensitive members is contacted with a working surface, a moving direction of the cursor is determined by the controlling unit according to a touching signal from the pressed touch-sensitive member, and a displacement amount of the cursor is determined by the controlling unit according to a contact area between the pressed touch-sensitive member and the working surface.
US08581841B2 3D pointing device with up-down-left-right mode switching and integrated swipe detector
A 3D pointing device for use with a content delivery system is provided. The pointing device can operate in one of at least one of two modes: a first 3D or scrolling mode, and a second non-3D mode that can also be referred to as an up-down-left-right (UDLR) mode. The pointing device can include one or more directional sensors, to provide orientation and movement information. For either of the at least two modes, an optical finger navigation module is provided that can detect movement of a user's finger or object across its screen, and provides a predetermined threshold that must be exceeded before movement information is generated from the OFN module. The pointing device can generate scroll and UDLR commands based on the information from the orientation and movement sensors, as well as the OFN module, or can provide the information from the orientation and movement sensors to a user interface that can generate the appropriate scrolling or UDLR commands for use by the content delivery system.
US08581840B2 Multi-touch measure comparison
A system may include presentation of a visualization comprising a plurality of elements, detection of a first user input received at a first location of the visualization, presentation of a first indicator connecting the first location with a third location of the visualization, presentation of a first value of a measure, the first value associated with one of the plurality of elements located at least partially at the first location, detection of a second user input received at a third location of the visualization, presentation of a second indicator connecting the third location with the second location of the visualization, presentation of a second value of the measure, the second value associated with one of the plurality of elements located at least partially at the second location, determination of a composite value based on the first value and the second value, and presentation of the composite value at a fourth location of the visualization.
US08581838B2 Eye gaze control during avatar-based communication
An avatar image on a device display, such as a cell phone or laptop computer, maintains natural and realistic eye contact with a user (a human being) while the user is communicating with the other human being, whose avatar is displayed on the device. Thus, the user and the avatar have natural eye contact during the communication session (e.g., phone call). Modules within the device ensure that the avatar eyes do not maintain a fixed gaze or stare at the user constantly and that the avatar looks away and changes head and eye angles in a natural manner. An imager in the device captures images of the user and tracks the user's eyes. This data is inputted to an avatar display control module on the device which processes the data, factors in randomness variables, and creates control signals that are sent to the avatar image display component on the device. The control signals instruct how the avatar eyes should be positioned.
US08581833B2 System, method, and computer program product for controlling stereo glasses shutters
A system, method, and computer program product are provided for controlling stereo glasses shutters. In use, a right eye shutter of stereo glasses is controlled to switch between a closed orientation and an open orientation. Further, a left eye shutter of the stereo glasses is controlled to switch between the closed orientation and the open orientation. To this end, the right eye shutter and the left eye shutter of the stereo glasses may be controlled such that the right eye shutter and the left eye shutter simultaneously remain in the closed orientation for a predetermined amount of time.
US08581832B2 Illumination device having user-controllable light sequencing circuitry configured to select a light sequencing mode
An illumination device comprises a plurality of light sources, light sequencing circuitry coupled to the light sources, a light guide structure for directing light from the plurality of light sources over a surface of a display screen to be illuminated, and a user interface for providing control input to the light sequencing circuitry. The light sequencing circuitry comprises a logic state machine responsive to the control input to select one of a plurality of available sequencing modes for the plurality of light sources, a code generator operative to generate output signals controlling respective ones of the light sources responsive to the selected one of the sequencing modes, and timing circuitry for defining timing intervals for processing of the control input by the logic state machine to determine the selected one of the sequencing modes and for generation of the corresponding output signals by the code generator.
US08581828B2 Load-aware compensation in light-emitting-diode backlight illumination systems
System(s) and method(s) are provided for power management in an electronic display via compensation of a power source of a light-emitting-diode (LED) backlighting system. A compensation feedback loop includes a load-aware controller that receives the load condition from a dimming controller and supplies a control signal to the power source. An efficiency regulator functionally connected the backlight circuitry closes the compensation feedback loop and provides an input signal to the load-aware controller. The dimming controller implements phase-shifted pulse-modulation dimming, which based on duty cycle can establish a dimming equilibrium with two load conditions. The load aware controller includes a set of compensation blocks arranged in parallel, with a single compensation block connected to the input signal and that provides the control signal. A selector component in the load aware controller determines a compensation block to be connected to the compensation feedback loop based on the received load condition.
US08581820B2 Signal driving circuit of liquid crystal display device and driving method thereof
A signal driving circuit of a liquid crystal display device includes a column driver for converting video data input into analog signals and applying said analog signals to pixels of a liquid crystal panel, a gamma voltage circuit for applying a plurality of signal voltages to the column driver and an external voltage supplying unit for generating and adjusting signal voltages and a common voltage applied to the gamma voltage circuit and the common electrode, respectively.
US08581819B2 Apparatus and method for driving liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal display device includes first and second substrates facing each other with a liquid crystal layer therebetween, a first data line, a second data line, a gate line, a pixel electrode and a reset electrode on the first substrate, the first data line crossing the gate line to define a pixel region, and a common electrode on the second substrate, during a first period of a frame, the pixel electrode and the reset electrode generating a horizontal electric field with respect to the substrates, and during a second period of the frame the common electrode and the pixel and reset electrodes generating a vertical electric field with respect to the substrates.
US08581814B2 Method for driving pixels of a display panel
A method for driving pixels of a display panel is provided. The display panel includes a first gate line coupled to a gate of a first-switch transistor, wherein a source of the first-switch transistor is coupled to a liquid crystal capacitor and a first-storage capacitor. The liquid crystal capacitor includes a pixel electrode and a common electrode. A terminal of the first-storage capacitor is coupled to a second gate line. First, a first modulation signal is provided to the common electrode. Next, the first-switch transistor is turned on by the first gate line. Next, a second modulation signal is provided to the second gate line after the first-switch transistor is turned on. Wherein, the second modulation signal enables a second-switch transistor coupled to the second gate line to operate in the cut-off region. And the first and second modulation signals are in phase.
US08581811B2 Organic light emitting display device and driving method thereof
The organic light emitting display device according to the present invention includes a scan driver for supplying a scan signal to scan lines during a frame time-divided into a plurality of subframes, a data driver coupled to output lines for supplying data signals on each of the output lines, data distributors coupled to the output lines for distributing the data signals to data lines, concurrently, in synchronization with the scan signal, and pixels located at crossing regions of the data lines and the scan lines. Each of the data distributors includes a sampling latch for distributing the data signals to different channels and for storing the data signals, and a holding latch coupled to the sampling latch for supplying the data signals of the channels to the data lines concurrently.
US08581807B2 Display device and pixel circuit driving method achieving driving transistor threshold voltage correction
Disclosed herein is a display device including a pixel array section having pixel circuits arranged in a form of a matrix, the pixel circuits each including a driving transistor for generating a driving current, an electrooptic element connected to an output terminal of the driving transistor, a storage capacitor for retaining information corresponding to signal amplitude of a video signal, and a sampling transistor for writing the information corresponding to the signal amplitude to the storage capacitor; a vertical scanning section configured to generate a vertical scanning pulse for vertical scanning of the pixel circuits; a horizontal scanning section configured to supply the video signal to the pixel circuits so as to coincide with the vertical scanning in the vertical scanning section; and a driving signal constancy achieving circuit for holding the driving current constant.
US08581806B2 Display module
A display module includes a pixel disposed in respective intersections between a plurality of scanning lines and a plurality of data lines, which lines are aligned in a matrix, and a current supply line that supplies electric current to the pixel, the pixel includes a data storage device for storing a data signal supplied from the data lines, and an emitting device that emits light by the electric current supplied by the current supply line according to the data signal stored in the data storage device. One terminal of the data signal storage device is connected to one of the scanning lines placed anteriorly of to the pixel that is being selected.
US08581782B2 Simultaneous radio detection and bearing system
Provided is a non-transitory machine readable medium on which is stored a computer program including instructions to adapt a computer system having at least one processor as a simultaneous radio detection and bearing system, including: an RF conditioning subsystem for connection to a plurality of arrays of Frequency Range signal receiving channels, the RF conditioning subsystem operable to combine the signals from the arrays as a first internal data stream; and a coherent multi-channel digitizer subsystem coupled to the RF conditioning system, the coherent multi-channel digitizer subsystem operable to generate a time domain snapshot of the first internal data stream. The computer instructions further adapting the processor to transform the time domain snapshot to a frequency spectrum and identify at least one signal above a threshold at a determined frequency, determine the bearing of the signal, and provide the determined frequency of a selected identified signal to an audio recording subsystem, the audio subsystem contemporaneously recording the selected signal upon the determined frequency.
US08581778B2 Pulse compression system and method
A non-linear FM pulse compression system includes a non-linear FM transmitter adapted to receive an input signal and transmit an output signal. The non-linear FM transmitter is adapted to modulate the frequency of the output signal by at least one of the following: increasing the frequency of the output signal as a logarithmic function of the frequency of samples in the input signal; modulating the frequency of the output signal in inversely proportional relationship to the frequency of samples in the input signal; and modulating the frequency of the output signal according to a random permutation of the frequency of the input signal. At least one antenna interfaces with the non-linear FM transmitter. A non-linear FM receiver interfacing with the at least one antenna. The non-linear FM receiver is adapted to auto-correlate the output signal with a return signal.
US08581776B2 Radar system
Provided is a radar system which calculates a track of a detected object and can determine whether or not the track is accurate. The radar system includes: a radar section for emitting an electromagnetic wave to an object and receiving a reflected wave reflected from the object to detect position information of the object; a track calculation section for calculating, periodically at a first cycle, a track along which the object moves, on the basis of the position information obtained from the radar section; a first speed calculation section for calculating a first speed at which the object moves, on the basis of pieces of the position information at two different time points having a time interval which is longer than the first cycle; and a track determination section for determining whether or not the track is accurate, on the basis of at least the first speed.
US08581773B1 Dual frequency transmitter
In embodiments a system to generate a dual frequency, circularly polarized beam of rotating electromagnetic radiation comprises a first radiation source to generate a first radiation beam at a first frequency, a second radiation source to generate a second radiation beam at a second frequency, different from the first frequency, and a tee. In some embodiments the tee receives the first radiation beam and the second radiation beam, outputs a third radiation beam which represents a sum of the first radiation beam and the second radiation beam, and outputs a fourth radiation beam which represents a difference between the first radiation beam and the second radiation beam, wherein the third radiation beam and the fourth radiation beam are separated by a ninety-degree phase shift. The system further comprises a combiner to combine the third and fourth beams to produce an output beam. Other embodiments may be described.
US08581767B2 Correction signal generator and analog-to-digital converter
A correction signal generator generates a correction signal that corrects a digital signal obtained from an analog input voltage. The correction signal generator has a correction signal output circuit that holds the number of transit stages of delay units detected by a first stage count detection circuit and a third stage count detection circuit at the timing corresponding to the difference in the number of stages between the number of transit stages of delay units detected by the first stage count detection circuit and the number of transit stages of delay units detected by a second stage count detection circuit, and outputs the difference between the number of stages from the first stage count detection circuit and the number of stages from the third stage count detection circuit, which were held, as the correction signal.
US08581766B1 DAC with novel switch regulation
A system includes an NL bit digital to analog converter (DAC) ladder module having NL ladder resistors connected in parallel, NL series resistors connected in series between the NL ladder resistors, and a plurality of switches. NL is an integer greater than one. Adjacent pairs of the plurality of switches are connected in series with respective ones of the ladder resistors. On resistances of each of the plurality of switches are approximately equal. A switch control module provides a plurality of switch control signals to respective ones of the plurality of switches.
US08581764B2 Delta-sigma modulator and signal processing system
A delta-sigma modulator is disclosed herein. By way of example, the delta-sigma modulator includes a plurality of integrators configured to be connected in cascade to the input of an analog signal, a quantifier configured to quantify an output signal from the final-stage integrator among the plurality of integrators so as to output a digital signal, a zero-order feedback path configured to compensate for an internal loop delay in the output of the quantifier, and a voltage output type digital-analog converter configured to be located on the zero-order feedback path and to convert the output digital signal from the quantifier into an analog signal, wherein the voltage output type digital-analog converter is connected to the final-stage integrator via a capacitor, and the voltage output type digital-analog converter switches an output amplitude in accordance with a calibration code that is supplied.
US08581756B1 Signal-characteristic determined digital-to-analog converter (DAC) filter stage configuration
A digital signal processing circuit, such as a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) having multiple cascaded processing stages, some of which are selectably placed in a low-power non-operating state according to a lower-power operating mode of the digital signal processing circuit and are placed in an operating state according to another higher-performance operating mode of the circuit. The output sample rates of the stages differ, so that the sample rate through the cascade changes. A signal characteristic determination block generates an indication of one or both of an amplitude and/or frequency of the input signal, so that the operating mode of the digital signal processing circuit is selected in conformity with the indication of amplitude and/or frequency of the input signal.
US08581753B2 Lossless coding technique for CABAC in HEVC
A system utilizing a lossless coding technique for CABAC in HEVC is described. The system includes a first and second electronic device. The first electronic device encodes according to a lossless coding technique for CABAC in HEVC. The second electronic device decodes according to a lossless coding technique for CABAC in HEVC.
US08581751B2 Multi-cell voltage secure data encoding in hybrid vehicles
Methods and systems are provided for encoding vehicle data comprising a first voltage pertaining to a first battery cell and a second voltage pertaining to a second battery cell is provided. A determination is made as to whether the first voltage is valid. In addition, a determination is made as to whether the second voltage is valid. One of a plurality of values is assigned to a validity measure based at least in part on whether the first voltage or the second voltage, or both, are valid. The plurality of values, in binary form, are at least two bit errors removed from one another.
US08581749B2 Method and system for predictive human interface
A method and system for providing a predictive human interface for a plurality of user electronic devices, which includes storing, in an electronic database, user preferences regarding how certain specified communications related to the user electronic devices are to be processed. The method and system also includes monitoring and storing, by a network server, specific characteristics associated with communications originating from the user electronic devices, generating a similar predictive human interface for each of the user electronic devices, based upon the stored user preferences and the stored specific characteristics for the user electronic devices, and providing the predictive human interface to each of the user electronic devices for use during communications originating from one of the user electronic devices.
US08581746B2 Drive assist device and method
A drive assist device and method capable of preventing the confusion of a driver at a traffic signal with an arrow lamp are provided. An ECU has a section for determining whether or not it is possible to pass a signal, which determines whether or not a vehicle can pass a signal, and a signal waiting time notification control section, which determines a signal waiting time of the vehicle and displays it on a display unit when the section for determining whether or not it is possible to pass a signal determines that the vehicle cannot pass a signal. The section for determining whether or not it is possible to pass a signal determines not only a lighting time of only a red signal but also a lighting time of a red signal and an arrow lamp and a lighting time of a yellow signal subsequent thereto are determined as a no-pass time.
US08581739B2 Portable electronic device having holster and including a plurality of position sensors
A portable electronic device includes a lower housing slidably coupled to an upper housing, the lower and upper housings being movable between a closed position and an open position, and a holster sized and shaped for holding the device in a holster position. The device also includes a first position sensor to detect proximity of at least one positioning object and output a first sensor output signal indicative of the proximity of the at least one positioning object to the first position sensor, a second position sensor to detect proximity of the at least one positioning object and output a second sensor output signal indicative of the proximity of the at least one positioning object to the second position sensor. The first and second sensor output signals cooperate to indicate whether the portable electronic device is in one of the open position, the closed position and the holster position.
US08581720B2 Methods, systems, and computer program products for remotely updating security systems
Methods, systems, and computer program products for remotely updating security systems is provided. The method includes defining a messaging sequence exchange between a host system and a gateway. The gateway is in communication with a security system panel. The method further includes identifying an update for the security system panel and transmitting the update from the host system to the security system panel via the gateway using the messaging sequence exchange.
US08581711B2 Methods and systems of rule-based intoxicating substance testing associated with vehicles
Rule-based intoxicating substance testing associated with vehicles. At least some of the various embodiments are methods including: receiving a signal that a prospective driver intends to drive a vehicle; retrieving at least one previously stored rule regarding intoxicating substance testing associated the vehicle; retrieving data relevant to the rule; determining whether intoxicating substance testing is indicated by the rule; enabling the vehicle responsive to an indication that intoxicating substance testing is not indicated; and administering an intoxicating substance test to the prospective driver responsive to an indication that an intoxicating substance test is indicated. And if the intoxicating substance test is administered: enabling the vehicle responsive to the prospective driver passing the intoxicating substance test, the enabling by the onboard device; and disabling the vehicle responsive to the prospective driver failing the intoxicating substance test, the disabling by the onboard device.
US08581705B2 Combination full-duplex and half-duplex electronic identification tag
Transponders are disclosed that are configurable to operate in an HDX mode and/or an FDX-B mode and that use a switchable load impedance across the transponders' resonant antenna circuit to induce amplitude and/or frequency modulation. An RF level detection circuit determines when the instantaneous activation signal strength is sufficient to support monoplex, multiplex, and diplex operation. A non-volatile memory stores identification data coded in HDX and FDX-B formats. One embodiment of the invention includes an inductive antenna including two terminals connected to tag circuitry, where the inductive antenna forms a resonant antenna circuit tuned to resonate at the frequency of the activation signal. In addition, the tag circuitry includes a non-volatile memory, the tag circuitry and the resonant antenna circuitry are configurable as an oscillator, the tag circuitry is configured to be powered by electric current induced in the resonant antenna circuit by the activation signal, the tag circuitry includes at least one switchable load impedance connected across the antenna resonant circuit, the tag circuitry is configurable to amplitude modulate the activation signal appearing at the resonant antenna circuit terminals using a switchable load impedance, and the tag circuitry is configurable to frequency shift key modulate the oscillator signal appearing at the resonant antenna circuit terminals using a switchable load impedance.
US08581701B2 RFID-based data collection, correlation and transmission system, and method for collecting data and correlating same to system participant identities and actions thereof
An RFID-based data collection, correlation and transmission system and method carried out thereby is provided. The system, which comprises one or more RFID-readers, a radio frequency identification (RFID) recognition and control component. a storage device interface, a portable and/or internal data storage device in communication with the storage device interface, one or more antennas, and a configuration and command component, is operable to collect data of interest from detected RFID tags, and detect and identify system participants and data related thereto. In addition, the system is operable to correlate potential data of interest, such as product advertising information, to the detected system participants, and transmit the data of interest to the system participants via numerous methods of communication. Thus, the system provides a means of highly targeted information distribution, as well as providing user reports valuable in future planning.
US08581696B2 Universal garage door opener and appliance control system
Universal garage door opener and appliance control system operable to facilitate garage door opener and appliance control with a fob or other wireless device operable to wirelessly communicate corresponding instructions to a vehicle other device for subsequent relay to the garage door opener or controlled appliance.
US08581685B2 Reactor and method for manufacturing reactor
A reactor includes: a first core having end surfaces; a second core having end surfaces facing the end surfaces of the first core; coils wound around at least part of the circumference of the first core and the second core; and gap members arranged between the end surfaces of the first core and the end surfaces of the second core. The coils and the gap members are integrally molded with a first resin in a state where the first and second cores are not provided. The coils and the first and second cores are integrally molded with a second resin in a state where the gap members are sandwiched between the end surfaces of the first core and the end surfaces of the second core.
US08581683B2 Electromagnetic actuating unit of a hydraulic directional valve
An electromagnetic actuating unit of a hydraulic directional valve, which has an armature and a first and a second magnet yoke. The first and the second magnet yokes at least partially bind an armature space, the armature is arranged in the armature space so as to be axially displaceable, and the first and the second magnet yokes face each other in the axial direction of the armature.
US08581676B2 Common-mode filter
A common-mode filter including two input terminals and two output terminals and, in series between each input or output terminal and the ground, a capacitive element and a first inductive element.
US08581669B2 Vibrator element, vibrator, oscillator, and electronic apparatus
A vibrator element includes a base section, vibration arms, and excitation electrodes provided to the respective vibration arms, the excitation electrodes each include a first electrode disposed on a principal surface side of the vibration arm, a second electrode disposed so as to be opposed to the first electrode, and a piezoelectric body extending between the first electrode and the second electrode, and ITO is used as at least one of the first electrode and the second electrode.
US08581664B2 Pulse electric power amplification apparatus
A pulse electric power amplification apparatus includes first, second, final-stage and drive amplification devices. In initial stage, the first device in upstream, having a predetermined thermal time constant, receives a high frequency signal while the second device in downstream, having a different thermal time constant, is cascade-connected to it. In final stage, the drive device drives the final-stage device in downstream, which is cascade-connected to the second device. The apparatus further includes a power supply switching circuit, first and second differentiating circuits. The first and second differentiating circuits, having time constants corresponding to thermal time constants of the first and second devices, respectively, receive a pulse signal with which the high frequency signal is modulated. The power supply switching circuit, also receiving the pulse signal, switches a voltage outputted from a positive bias power supply and inputs the switched voltage to the first, second, drive and final-stage devices.
US08581659B2 Current controlled current source, and methods of controlling a current source and/or regulating a circuit
Current sources, systems including the current source, and methods for regulating and/or controlling a circuit using the current source. The current source is generally configured to (i) receive a reference current, a bias voltage and a feedback/input current and (ii) provide an output current. The systems generally include the current source, a circuit directly or indirectly receiving the output current, a bias source/generator configured to provide the bias voltage, and a current reference configured to sink or source a predetermined amount of current from or to the output current. The method generally includes (a) applying a bias voltage to the current source, the current source receiving an input current and providing an output current; (b) sinking or sourcing a reference current from or to the output current; (c) applying the output of the current source directly or indirectly to a regulated circuit; and (d) providing the input current from the regulated circuit.
US08581654B2 Method of compensating clock skew, clock skew compensating circuit for realizing the method, and input/output system including the clock skew compensating circuit
A method of compensating clock skew may include generating (2M+1) detected values by applying (2M+1) delay clock signals to (2M+1) pieces of delay data, wherein M is a natural number, determining a dominant logic value based on a comparison of a number of logic high detected values and a number of logic low detected values from among the (2M+1) detected values, determining a median delay time based on a number of the (2M+1) detected values having the dominant logic value, and adjusting a phase of a clock signal using the median delay time.
US08581653B1 Techniques for providing clock signals in clock networks
An integrated circuit includes a local clock network that is operable to provide a first clock signal and an interface circuit that is coupled to receive the first clock signal from the local clock network. The interface circuit is operable to generate a second clock signal based on the first clock signal. A clock line is coupled to the interface circuit. The clock line has a fixed length. The second clock signal is provided to a multiplexer circuit through the clock line. The multiplexer circuit provides a third clock signal based on the second clock signal. Another clock network is coupled to receive the third clock signal from the multiplexer circuit.
US08581650B2 Duty cycle correction circuit and delay locked loop circuit including the same
A duty cycle correction circuit includes: a duty cycle correction unit configured to correct a duty cycle of an input clock signal according to a duty cycle correction code and generate an output clock signal; a duty cycle detection section configured to detect a duty cycle of the output clock signal and generate an up-down signal; a noise detection signal generation section configured to detect a variation of the up-down signal and generate the noise detection signal; and a duty cycle correction control unit configured to generate the duty cycle correction code in response to the noise detection signal and the up-down signal.
US08581641B2 Power-up signal generation circuit
A power-up signal generation circuit includes: a first section signal generation unit configured to sense a level of an external voltage and a level of an internal voltage and generate a first section signal; a second section signal generation unit configured to output a second section signal by buffering the first section signal when the internal voltage is lowered to below a minimum level; and a selective output unit configured to output the first section signal as a power-up signal, wherein the selective output unit outputs the second section signal as the power-up signal when a power-up section is ended and a mode register setting operation is performed.
US08581622B1 Semiconductor device
To suppress power consumption and enhance signal quality as compared with the case where first and second semiconductor elements are terminated only by on-chip input termination resistor circuits. A first semiconductor element with a switching function and a second semiconductor element with a switching function are connected to each other with a substrate interconnection, and a resistor element is connected in parallel with the substrate interconnection. The resistor element is placed at an arbitrary position or a branch point on the signal interconnection.
US08581621B2 Semiconductor memory device, memory controller and memory system having on die termination and on die termination controlling method
A semiconductor memory device includes a first memory chip including a first on die termination (ODT) unit electrically connected to a first pad, the first pad being connected to a first terminal to receive a first signal, and a second memory chip including a second ODT unit electrically connected to a second pad, the second pad being connected to the first terminal to receive the first signal, the first ODT unit being configured to turn on/off according to a memory operation, the second ODT unit being configured to turn off regardless of the memory operation, and the first and second ODT units are switchable.
US08581619B2 Impedance calibration circuit and method
An embodiment includes an impedance calibration circuit having a calibrator configured to compare voltage levels at an external node and an internal node of the impedance calibration circuit and to generate an output based on the comparison. The calibrator further includes respective filters coupled between the external node and a first input of the comparator, and between the internal node and a second input of the comparator. The filters are configured for symmetric noise injection into the comparator from a chip ground line to which a programmable resistor at the internal node is coupled.
US08581611B2 Oscilloscope probe
Disclosed is a probe (21) for an oscilloscope (24) comprising a multi-stage transistor amplifier (26) which is used as an impedance transformer and the output of which is connected to the oscilloscope (24). An electronic switching device (27) that can be remote-controlled by means of the oscilloscope (24) is assigned to the input (Vin) of the amplifier (26). Said electronic switching device (27) allows frame potential or a reference voltage to be alternatively connected to the amplifier input (Vin) instead of the measuring-circuit voltage of the measuring tip (22) such that the direct voltage offset is measured when the amplifier input (Vin) is connected to frame while the gain error in the oscilloscope (24) is measured when the reference voltage is applied, and said direct voltage offset or gain error is adequately taken into account when the measuring-circuit voltage in the oscilloscope is evaluated.
US08581607B2 Testing device and method for determining a common mode signal of an electrical telecommunication
A testing device including: a first terminal configured to be connected to an equipment under test; a common-mode detector configured to detect a common-mode part of a signal emitted from the equipment under test; and a first impedance unit connected in series between the first terminal and the common-mode detector. The first impedance unit is configured to adjust a longitudinal conversion loss of the testing device to a predetermined value. A corresponding method determines a common mode signal of an electrical telecommunication.
US08581606B2 Test point structure for RF calibration and test of printed circuit board and method thereof
A point structure for RF calibration and testing of a PCB is provided. The point structure includes a test pad, an antenna connection pad, and a device mounting pad. The test pad is connected to a circuit unit of the PCB, and a ground pad is connected with a ground of the PCB. A contact probe apparatus for performing RF calibration and testing is connected to the test pad and the ground pad. The antenna connection pad is connected to an antenna unit. The device mounting pad is connected with the test pad and the antenna connection pad. An antenna device is mounted on the device mounting pad. The test pad, the ground pad, the antenna connection pad, and the device mounting pad are separated from one another. Since the point structure can replace an RF switch, a circuit area on the PCB may be reduced, a mounting space may be secured, and a manufacturing cost may be reduced.
US08581604B2 Method and device for determining impedance of depression
A method and the device for position detection are disclosed. The device comprises a plurality of strips intersecting each other to form a plurality of intersecting regions. A pair of depressed strips intersecting on an intersecting region contact to each other on a contact point to form a depressed intersecting region, wherein the contact impedance of the contact point is determined according to the position of the depressed intersecting region and the voltages on the contact point of one and the other of the pair depressed strips.
US08581599B2 Inspection pin protection structure of conduction check apparatus
A conduction check apparatus including an inspection part (4) having a main body (22) having a surface (23a), inspection pins (21) protruded from the surface (23a), a guide pin (8) provided on the surface (23a); and a protection board 6 sliding along the guide pin (8) from a first position to a second position and having a plurality of holes (28). At the first position, the protection board (6) covers a tip of each of the inspection pins (21) and, at the second position, each of the inspection pins (21) jut out from the respective one of the holes (28). The conduction check apparatus includes a connector setting part (3) relatively moving toward the inspection part (4). The protection board (6) moves between the first and the second position during the relative movement.
US08581598B2 Method for inspecting electrostatic chuck, and electrostatic chuck apparatus
Provided are a method and an apparatus capable of determining which attracting electrode in an electrostatic chuck of bipolar type has a capacitance abnormality occurring in its vicinity. In this inspection method, a positive auxiliary electrode (12) and a negative auxiliary electrode (14) are provided in a dielectric body (6) of an electrostatic chuck (4), and are connected to a ground potential portion. Then, transient currents (I1 to I4) flowing through the attracting electrodes (8 and 10) and the auxiliary electrodes (12 and 14) are measured when direct current voltages (+V and −V) are applied or cease to be applied from a chuck power supply (26) to the electrostatic chuck (4) under a state in which an object (2) to be attracted is not mounted, and a transient current (I5) (=I1−I2 or I3−I4) is calculated. The obtained transient currents are compared to respective predetermined reference values, to thereby determine a capacitance abnormality in the electrostatic chuck (4).
US08581586B2 Method of calculating coil pattern, and gradient magnetic field coil
A coil pattern calculation method includes calculating a current potential at each contact between finite surface elements forming each of the coil surfaces based on an initial value of an input current potential distribution, and, for each of the coil surfaces, repeatedly calculating the current potential alternately and, under each magnetic field condition, determining a current potential distribution that generates a magnetic field falling within the range of allowable error for each target magnetic field so that a surface current represented by the current potential will become close to a target magnetic field distribution set for each of the finite surface elements; and determining a coil pattern from the contour lines of the determined current potential distribution.
US08581585B2 Magnetic resonance imaging apparatus, initial state creation method, optimum intensity determination method, and magnetic resonance imaging method
This aims to shorten the time period, which is required for optimizing a radio-frequency magnetic field pulse intensity, thereby to shorten the measurement time period of an MRI entirety.In the operation for optimizing the radio-frequency magnetic field pulse intensity, an initial state for applying radio-frequency magnetic field pulses is intentionally created for a short time period, thereby to shorten the radio-frequency magnetic field pulse interval for the repeated applications.The radio-frequency magnetic field pulses are repeatedly applied at a predetermined time interval sufficiently shorter than the relaxing time period of the radio-frequency magnetic field pulses, and the state in which the magnetic resonance signal intensity becomes a threshold value or less is set to an initial state.
US08581579B2 Magneto electric sensor with injected up-conversion or down-conversion
A method includes generating an electrical signal representing a magnetic field using a magnetic field sensor having alternating layers of magneto-strictive material and piezo-electric material. The method also includes performing up-conversion or down-conversion so that the electrical signal representing the magnetic field has a higher or lower frequency than a frequency of the magnetic field. The up-conversion or down-conversion is performed before the magnetic field is converted into the electrical signal. The up-conversion or down-conversion could be performed by repeatedly sensitizing and desensitizing the magnetic field sensor. This could be done using a permanent magnet and an electromagnet, an electromagnet without a permanent magnet, or a movable permanent magnet. The up-conversion or down-conversion could also be performed by chopping the magnetic field. The chopping could involve intermittently shielding the magnetic field sensor from the magnetic field or moving the magnetic field sensor with respect to the magnetic field.
US08581571B2 Measuring apparatus, testing apparatus and measuring method
Provided is a measurement apparatus that measures a characteristic of a filter, comprising a first transmission line that has the filter connected therein, the first transmission line receiving a multi-tone signal having signal components at a plurality of frequencies from an input end thereof, passing the multi-tone signal through the filter, and outputting the multi-tone signal from an output end thereof; a second transmission line that receives the multi-tone signal from an input end thereof, propagates the multi-tone signal therein, and outputs the multi-tone signal from an output end thereof; and a measuring section that calculates the characteristic of the filter based on the multi-tone signal output from the output end of the first transmission line and the multi-tone signal output from the output end of the second transmission line.
US08581561B2 DC-DC boost converter circuit with an output stabilization circuit and method for driving the same
Disclosed herein are a DC-DC boost converter circuit, which is capable of preventing power loss and stabilizing switching elements by implementing soft switching and improving efficiency by adding a charge pumping function, and a method for driving the same. The DC-DC boost converter circuit, in which an inductor and an output diode are connected in series and an output capacitor and a load are connected to an output port of the output diode in parallel, includes an output stabilization circuit in which first and second switching elements, a transformer, a plurality of boost capacitors, and a plurality of diodes are connected in series/parallel between the inductor and the output diode.
US08581560B2 Voltage regulator circuit for generating a supply voltage in different modes
A voltage regulator circuit comprises active and standby amplifiers, first and second transistors, and a capacitor. The active amplifier has a negative input connected to a first reference voltage, and the standby amplifier has a negative input connected to a second reference voltage. The first reference voltage is greater than the second reference voltage. The first transistor has a gate connected to an output of the active amplifier and a drain connected to a voltage regulated output, and the second transistor has a gate connected to an output of the standby amplifier and a drain connected to the voltage regulated output. The capacitor is connected between a chip enable signal and the voltage regulated output.
US08581559B2 Systems, methods, and apparatus for a homopolar generator charger with integral rechargeable battery
Systems, methods, and apparatus for providing a homopolar generator charger with an integral rechargeable battery. A method is provided for converting rotational kinetic energy to electrical energy for charging one or more battery cells. The method can include rotating, by a shaft, a rotor in a magnetic flux field to generate current, wherein the rotor comprises an electrically conductive portion having an inner diameter conductive connection surface and an outer diameter conductive connection surface, and wherein a voltage potential is induced between the inner and outer diameter connection surfaces upon rotation in the magnetic flux field. The method can also include selectively coupling the generated current from the rotating rotor to terminals of the one or more battery cells.
US08581538B2 Drive control circuit for linear vibration motor
A drive signal generating unit generates a drive signal used to alternately deliver a positive current and a negative current to a coil with a nonconducting period inserted between conducting periods. A driver unit generates a drive current in response to the drive signal generated by the drive signal generating unit and supplies the drive current to a coil. An induced voltage detector detects an induced voltage occurring in the coil during the nonconducting period. A zero-cross detecting unit detects the zero cross of the induced voltage detected by the induced voltage detector. The drive signal generator estimates the eigen frequency of the linear vibration motor based on a detected position of the zero cross, and the frequency of the drive signal is brought close to the estimated eigen frequency.
US08581530B2 Electronic self-locking device for a windscreen wiping device
The invention relates to a windscreen wiping device for a motor vehicle, comprising at least one wiper, a wiper drive (1), an electronic control device (2) that controls the wiper drive (1), a first signal transmitter for capturing the angular position of the wiper, and a first control line (7) that can emit an angle position signal captured by the first signal transmitter to the control device (2). According to the invention, a second signal transmitter for capturing the angular displacement of the wiper is provided. A second control line (8) that can emit an angle modification signal captured by the second signal transmitter to the control device (2) is provided. Said claimed windscreen wiper device has the advantage that it has a permanent self-locking device for at least one wiper.
US08581525B2 Compensated precessional beam extraction for cyclotrons
A plurality of magnetic extraction bumps are incorporated into a cyclotron that further includes (a) a pair of magnetic coils encircling a central axis and positioned on opposite sides of a median acceleration plane and (b) a magnetic yoke encircling the central axis and including a return yoke that crosses the median acceleration plane and a first and second pole on opposite sides of the median acceleration plane. The magnetic extraction bumps extend in series radially from the central axis on opposite sides of the median acceleration plane and can be used to extract an orbiting accelerated ion from the cyclotron.
US08581514B2 Dimming circuit and method for LEDs
A dimming circuit and method for a LED provide a first driving voltage or a second driving voltage according to a dimming signal provided by a functional IC to enable or disable the LED. The values of the first and second driving voltages are controlled so that overstressing of the LED is avoided while the functional IC is capable of working even when the LED is off. The LED's life time is thus prolonged.
US08581503B1 Method of forming an LED control circuit and structure therefor
In one embodiment, an LED control circuit is configured to form an LED current for operating an LED light source and configured to form a bias current for a dummy load. The LED control circuit is configured to terminate the bias current responsively to detecting the LED current.
US08581498B1 Control of bleed current in drivers for dimmable lighting devices
Methods and apparati for controlling bleed current (IBLEED) in a driver circuit (20) for a lighting device (23). A method embodiment of the present invention comprises the steps of coupling a dimmer (21) to an input of the driver circuit (20), and forcing the bleed current (IBLEED) to be inversely proportional to the time-averaged voltage (VLEDP) at said lighting device (23). The dimmer (21) consumes power even when the lighting device (23) is not emitting light.
US08581493B2 Ceramic electrode for a high-pressure discharge lamp
An electrode for a high-pressure discharge lamp may include a shaft and a head mounted thereon, wherein at least a section of the head includes ceramic material, wherein the ceramic material is a boride or carbide.
US08581491B2 Method of manufacturing display device
To provide a method of manufacturing a display device having an excellent impact resistance property with high yield, in particular, a method of manufacturing a display device having an optical film that is formed using a plastic substrate. The method of manufacturing a display device includes the steps of: laminating a metal film, an oxide film, and an optical filter on a first substrate; separating the optical filter from the first substrate; attaching the optical filter to a second substrate; forming a layer including a pixel on a third substrate; and attaching the layer including the pixel to the optical filter.
US08581483B2 Device for conducting away lost heat, as well as ion accelerator arrangement having such a device
The invention relates to an ion accelerator arrangement comprising an ionization chamber which is surrounded by a chamber wall and a magnetic arrangement that is disposed outside the chamber wall. Steps are taken to dissipate lost heat occurring on the chamber wall, and advantageous solutions are provided to protect permanent-magnet elements of the magnetic arrangement.
US08581481B1 Pre-aligned thermionic emission assembly
A thermionic emission assembly includes a Wehnelt cap that has a cap beam aperture and a cavity within which a cathode is supported. Electrical energy applied to the cathode causes it to reach a sufficiently high temperature to emit a beam of electrons that propagate through the cap beam aperture. An anode having an anode beam aperture is positioned in spatial alignment with the cap beam aperture to receive the electrons. The anode accelerates the electrons and directs them through the anode beam aperture for incidence on a target specimen. A ceramic base forms a combined interface that electrically and thermally separates the Wehnelt cap and the anode. The interface thermally isolates the Wehnelt cap from the anode to allow the cathode to rapidly reach the sufficiently high temperature to emit the beam of electrons.
US08581477B2 Piezoelectric film element using (Na,K,Li)NbO3
A piezoelectric film element is provided, which is capable of improving piezoelectric properties, having on a substrate at least a lower electrode, a lead-free piezoelectric film, and an upper electrode, wherein at least the lower electrode out of the lower electrode and the upper electrode has a crystal structure of a cubic crystal system, a tetragonal crystal system, an orthorhombic crystal system, a hexagonal crystal system, a monoclinic crystal system, a triclinic crystal system, a trigonal crystal system, or has a composition in which one of these crystals exists or two or more of them coexist, and crystal axes of the crystal structure are preferentially oriented to a specific axis smaller than or equal to two axes of these crystals, and a ratio c/a′ is set in a range of 0.992 or more and 0.999 or less, which is the ratio of a crystal lattice spacing c in a direction of a normal line to the substrate surface, with respect to a crystal lattice spacing a′ whose inclination angle from the substrate surface is in a range of 10° or more and 30° or less.
US08581474B2 Device and method for calculating at least one of a force and an acceleration of an object
A method for generating electrical power from an acceleration of an object is provided. The method including: vibrating a mass-spring unit upon an acceleration of an object; transmitting a force resulting from the acceleration from the mass-spring unit to the one or more piezoelectric elements; converting the vibration of the mass-spring unit to an electrical energy; and calculating at least one of the force and acceleration based on an output of the one or more piezoelectric elements.
US08581469B2 Device for converting thermal energy into electrical energy
A current source and method of producing the current source are provided. The current source includes a metal source, a buffer layer, a filter and a collector. An electrical connection is provided to the metal layer and semiconductor layer and a magnetic field applier may be also provided. The source metal has localized states at a bottom of the conduction band and probability amplification. The interaction of the various layers produces a spontaneous current. The movement of charge across the current source produces a voltage, which rises until a balancing reverse current appears. If a load is connected to the current source, current flows through the load and power is dissipated. The energy for this comes from the thermal energy in the current source, and the device gets cooler.
US08581467B2 Stator including a cage coil
A stator comprises: a stator core having a plurality of slots; and a cage coil formed of a rectangular combined conductor that is wound by a plurality of turns. The combined conductor includes: a first conductor formed in a continuous zig-zag pattern; a second conductor formed in a continuous zig-zag pattern, the first and second conductors being combined to overlap one on the other with a displacement of one pitch; conductor in-slot portions overlapped and mounted in each of the slots of the stator core; conductor connecting portions placed circumferentially on the outside of the slots; and conductor stepped portions connecting the conductor in-slot portions and the conductor connecting portions.
US08581464B2 Segmented rotor
The present application provides a segmented rotor. The segmented rotor may include a center wheel, a number of rotor support segments positioned about the center wheel, and a number of active rotor components positioned about each of the rotor support segments.
US08581457B2 Wheel support bearing assembly with sensor and in-wheel motor integration
A wheel support bearing assembly with sensor and in-wheel motor integration, that can sense with improved accuracy the forces acting on a contact point between a wheel and a road for precise control of an electric motor unit and/or a vehicle. The bearing assembly includes a bearing unit that rotatably supports a hub of a drive wheel, an electric motor unit, and a reduction gear unit between the electric motor unit and the bearing unit. A sensor unit is associated with an outer ring of the bearing unit. The sensor unit includes a strain generator and at least one measuring sensor attached to the strain generator. The strain generator includes a thin plate including at least two fixation contact segments fixed in contact with an outer diameter surface of the outer ring.
US08581455B2 Electric machine—evaporative cooling
An electric machine (10;100) comprises a rotor (14a), preferably having permanent magnets (24a,b), although other field generation means are available, and a stator (12). The stator has coils (22) wound on stator bars (16) for interaction with the magnetic field of the rotor across an air gap (26a,b) defined between them. The rotor (14) comprises a housing (54) of a chamber (70) containing refrigerant (82). The rotor housing (54) has heat dissipating fins (96) accessible by the open environment whereby air movement relative to the housing caused at least by rotation of the rotor absorbs heat from the fins. The machine may be an axial flux machine, the coils being wound on bars that are disposed circumferentially spaced around a fixed axle of the machine forming a rotational axis (80) of the rotor. The machine may be a wheel motor for a vehicle, wherein the wheel is mounted directly on the rotor housing (14).
US08581452B2 Motor for high temperature applications
A high temperature motor has a stator with poles formed by wire windings, and a rotor with magnetic poles on a rotor shaft positioned coaxially within the stator. The stator and rotor are built up from stacks of magnetic-alloy laminations. The stator windings are made of high temperature magnet wire insulated with a vitreous enamel film, and the wire windings are bonded together with ceramic binder. A thin-walled cylinder is positioned coaxially between the rotor and the stator to prevent debris from the stator windings from reaching the rotor. The stator windings are wound on wire spools made of ceramic, thereby avoiding need for mica insulation and epoxy/adhesive. The stator and rotor are encased in a stator housing with rear and front end caps, and rear and front bearings for the rotor shaft are mounted on external sides of the end caps to keep debris from the motor migrating into the bearings' races.
US08581445B2 Wireless electric power feeding equipment
An electric power supply device generates electric power having a prescribed frequency. An electric power transfer unit receives electric power from the electric power supply device, and transfers electric power to an electric power receiving unit in a contactless manner by resonating with the electric power receiving unit via an electromagnetic field. An electric power sensor senses power reflected to the electric power supply device. A discharging coil unit externally discharges electric power output from the electric power supply device. A relay electrically connects the discharging coil unit between the electric power supply device and the electric power transfer unit when the reflected power detected has a value exceeding a predetermined value.
US08581443B2 Circuit arrangement and method for inductive energy transfer
A method and a circuit arrangement for the inductive transfer of energy with an oscillator and a device to detect the inductive load of the oscillator, and to modify a damping element in the oscillator depending on the load of said oscillator.
US08581440B2 Adaptive phase offset controller for multi-channel switching power converter
An adaptive phase offset controller for use with a switching power converter having first and second channels. The controller includes a discriminator which detects a ‘critical condition’ in which a switching signal for the first channel transitions during a critical time interval so as to give rise to crosstalk that can corrupt the operation of the second channel's control circuit. When the discriminator detects a critical condition, a phase offset circuit offsets the phase of the first channel's switching signals, such that subsequent transitions occur outside of the critical time interval. A second discriminator and phase offset circuit are preferably employed to detect critical conditions which can give rise to crosstalk that can corrupt the operation of the first channel's control circuit.
US08581430B2 Hydro turbine generator
A hydroelectric turbine generator and control system is provided that optimizes the maximum possible power output at all times by strictly monitoring power output from the generator unit and modulating the wicket gate angle and the runner blade pitch independently of one another. The hydroelectric turbine generator includes a means for separately controlling wicket gate angle and runner blade pitch. The wicket gate angle control mechanism controls the flow into the system, pre conditions flow for maximum power and maintains reservoir level. The runner blade pitch control mechanism continuously monitors the system power output based on actual power produced, and adjusts system parameters in order to achieve maximum power output.
US08581427B2 Retractable power turbine and method thereof
A downhole electrical generating apparatus providing power to downhole electronics. The apparatus includes a tubular having a wall forming a tubular space which receives a flow in a flow direction. A retractable electrical generating apparatus positionable in a first condition facing the flow and in a second condition substantially opening the tubular space. Also included is a method of providing power to downhole electronics.
US08581426B2 Conversion of bio-energy into electrical energy
Devices and methods for converting movement into electrical energy. The electrical energy produced by the device can, for example, be stored in a storage device and used to power an electrical appliance. By using the devices, it is possible to provide a portable electrical device with a stable power supply that does not need to be recharged.
US08581424B2 Information recording/reproducing device
According to one embodiment, an information recording/reproducing device including a semiconductor substrate, a first interconnect layer on the semiconductor substrate, a first memory cell array layer on the first interconnect layer, and a second interconnect layer on the first memory cell array layer. The first memory cell array layer comprises an insulating layer having an alignment mark, and a stacked layer structure on the insulating layer and including a storage layer and an electrode layer. All of the layers in the stacked layer structure comprises a material with a permeability of visible light of 1% or more.
US08581414B2 Method of manufacturing three-dimensional integrated circuit and three-dimensional integrated circuit apparatus
In a three-dimensional integrated circuit apparatus 80 in which a first wafer 101 and a second wafer 102 having respective integrated circuits according to an embodiment are directly bonded, the second wafer 102 is provided with a through hole 10 aligned with a via 5a of the first wafer 101 by use of an alignment marker of the first wafer 101, and connected to the via 5a. The surrounding of the through hole 10 is provided with an insulating film 8.
US08581406B1 Flip chip mounted monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) structure
A MMIC flip chip mounted to a circuit board having an underfill material disposed between the MMIC and the circuit board and a barrier structure for preventing the underfill material from being disposed under an electronic device of the MMIC while providing a cavity under the electronic device.
US08581398B2 Trap rich layer with through-silicon-vias in semiconductor devices
An integrated circuit chip is formed with a circuit layer, a trap rich layer and through-semiconductor-vias. The trap rich layer is formed above the circuit layer. The through-semiconductor-vias are also formed above the circuit layer. In some embodiments, the circuit layer is included in a wafer, and the trap rich layer and through-semiconductor-vias are included in another wafer. The two wafers are bonded together after formation of the trap rich layer and through-semiconductor-vias. Additionally, in some embodiments, yet another wafer may also be bonded to the wafer that includes the trap rich layer and through-semiconductor-vias. Furthermore, in some embodiments, another circuit layer may be formed in the wafer that includes the trap rich layer and through-semiconductor-vias.
US08581395B2 Hybrid integrated circuit device and electronic device
A hybrid integrated circuit device having high mount reliability includes a module substrate which is a ceramic wiring substrate, a plurality of electronic component parts laid out on the main surface of the module substrate, a plurality of electrode terminals laid out on the rear surface of the module substrate, and a cap which is fixed to the module substrate to cover the main surface of the module substrate. The electrode terminals include ones which are aligned along the edges of the module substrate and power voltage supply terminals which are located inner than these electrode terminals. The electrode terminals aligned along the substrate edges are coated, at least in their portions close to the substrate edge, with a protection film having a thickness of several tens micrometers or less. Connection reinforcing terminals consist of a plurality of divided terminals which are independent of each other, and are ground terminals.
US08581382B2 Integrated circuit packaging system with leadframe and method of manufacture thereof
A method of manufacture of an integrated circuit packaging system includes: forming a paddle having an indented planar surface intersecting an outwardly extending planar surface at an angle of approximately 135 degrees plus 25 degrees or minus 5 degrees; mounting an integrated circuit over the paddle; and forming an encapsulation over the integrated circuit and under the extension void free.
US08581377B2 TSOP with impedance control
A semiconductor device of an illustrative embodiment includes a die, a lead frame including a plurality of leads having substantial portions arranged in a lead plane and electrically connected to the die. Most preferably, the package includes at least a substantial portion of one conductive element arranged in a plane positioned adjacent the lead frame and substantially parallel to the lead plane, the conductive element being capacitively coupled to the leads such that the conductive element and at least one of the leads cooperatively define a controlled-impedance conduction path, and an encapsulant which encapsulates the leads and the conductive element. The leads and, desirably, the conductive element have respective connection regions which are not covered by the encapsulant.
US08581375B2 Leadframe-based mold array package heat spreader and fabrication method therefor
A heat spreader frame is provided including: heat spreaders having upper surfaces; a peripheral frame surrounding the heat spreaders; spreaders, the peripheral frame having stand-off legs; tie bars having upper surfaces and a pin identifier at an end portion of the tie bars, the heat spreaders connected to one another and to the peripheral frame by the tie bars, the width of the stand-off legs wider than widths of the tie bars; at least portions of the upper surfaces of the tie bars being thinned to reduce heights of the tie bars; the upper surfaces of the heat spreader in an elevated position supported by the peripheral frame; and the heat spreaders and the tie bars covered by an package molding compound exposing the upper surface of the heat spreaders and one surface of the pin identifier coplanar to the upper surfaces of the heat spreaders.
US08581371B2 Connection element for a semiconductor component and method for producing the same
A connection element is arranged on a connection area of a semiconductor component. The connection element includes at least one bonding wire portion fixed on the connection area. The connection area is covered by an electrically conductive material, the fixed bonding wire portion being surrounded or embedded by the electrically conductive material.
US08581370B2 Semiconductor device and method of forming prefabricated EMI shielding frame with cavities containing penetrable material over semiconductor die
A semiconductor device has a plurality of semiconductor die mounted to a temporary carrier. A prefabricated shielding frame has a plate and integrated bodies extending from the plate. The bodies define a plurality of cavities in the shielding frame. A penetrable material is deposited in the cavities of the shielding frame. The shielding frame is mounted over the semiconductor die such that the penetrable material encapsulates the die. The carrier is removed. An interconnect structure is formed over the die, shielding frame, and penetrable material. The bodies of the shielding frame are electrically connected through the interconnect structure to a ground point. The shielding frame is singulated through the bodies or through the plate and penetrable material to separate the die. TIM is formed over the die adjacent to the plate of the shielding frame. A heat sink is mounted over the plate of the shielding frame.
US08581369B2 Semiconductor chip and semiconductor wafer
A semiconductor wafer includes at least one chip formed on a substrate, and a scribe line region surrounding the chip. The chip includes a device formation region, and a chip boundary region surrounding the device formation region and formed between the device formation region and the scribe line region. The chip boundary region includes a guard ring structure which physically separates the device formation region from the scribe line region. The guard ring structure includes a signal transfer element which transfers an electric signal between the device formation region and the scribe line region.
US08581363B2 Phase-change memory device including a vertically-stacked capacitor and a method of the same
A phase change memory device includes a vertically-stacked capacitor structure having large capacitance and small area. The phase change memory device includes a phase change memory structure, and the vertically-stacked capacitor structure electrically connected to the phase change memory structure and comprising a first capacitor and a second capacitor that are stacked and electrically connected in parallel to each other.
US08581359B2 Schottky barrier diode
A Schottky barrier diode includes a GaN freestanding substrate having a front surface, a GaN epitaxial layer deposited on the front surface, and an insulation layer deposited on the GaN epitaxial layer at a front surface and having an opening. Furthermore, the Schottky barrier diode also includes an electrode. The electrode is configured by a Schottky electrode provided in the opening in contact with the GaN epitaxial layer, and a field plate electrode connected to the Schottky electrode and also overlapping the insulation layer. The GaN freestanding substrate has a dislocation density of at most 1×108 cm−2.
US08581355B2 Micro electric mechanical system device and method of producing the same
A MEMS device comprises a substrate, an island-shaped first insulating layer formed on the substrate, a second insulating film formed on the top and side surfaces of the first insulating layer and the top surface of the substrate, and having a thickness smaller than that of the first insulating layer, a metal layer formed on the second insulating film in an island-shaped region where the first insulating layer is formed, and a MEMS system element formed on the metal layer.
US08581354B2 Semiconductor device carrying micro electro mechanical system
An object of the present invention is to enhance the reliability of an MEMS sensor formed on a semiconductor integrated circuit device. To achieve this object, a semiconductor device of the present invention comprises: a semiconductor integrated circuit device; a lower passivation film of silicon nitride, etc. . . . formed on the semiconductor integrated circuit device and having high moisture resistance and high chemical resistance; a MEMS portion formed on the lower passivation film and including a cavity 12; and an upper passivation film 11 formed on the top surface of the MEMS portion such that the MEMS portion is hermetically sealed by the upper and lower passivation films.
US08581350B2 Field effect transistor and semiconductor device, and method for manufacturing same
Current drive efficiency is deteriorated in the conventional FET. The FET 20 includes an electrode film 24a provided over the semiconductor substrate 10 and a stressor film 24b that is provided on the electrode film 24a and constitutes a gate electrode 24 together with the electrode film 24a. Each of the electrode film 24a and the stressor film 24b is composed of a metal, a metallic nitride or a metallic silicide. The stressor film 24b is capable of exhibiting a compressive stress over the semiconductor substrate 10.
US08581349B1 3D memory semiconductor device and structure
A 3D memory device, including: a first memory layer including a first memory transistor with side gates; a second memory layer including a second memory transistor with side gates; and a periphery circuits layer including logic transistors for controlling the memory, the periphery circuits are covered by a first isolation layer, where the first memory layer includes a first monolithically mono-crystal layer directly bonded to a second isolation layer, and the second memory layer includes a second monolithically mono-crystal layer directly bonded to the second isolation layer, and the first mono-crystal layer is bonded on top of the first isolation layer, and the second memory transistor is self-aligned to the first memory transistor.
US08581348B2 Semiconductor device with transistor local interconnects
A semiconductor device is provided for implementing at least one logic element. The semiconductor device includes a semiconductor substrate with a first transistor and a second transistor formed on the semiconductor substrate. Each of the transistors includes a source, a drain, and a gate. A CA layer is electrically connected to at least one of the source or the drain of the first transistor. A CB layer is electrically connected to at least one of the gates of the transistors and the CA layer.
US08581347B2 Forming bipolar transistor through fast EPI-growth on polysilicon
Provided is a semiconductor device that includes a first transistor and a second transistor that are formed on the same substrate. The first transistor includes a first collector, a first base, and a first emitter. The first collector includes a first doped well disposed in the substrate. The first base includes a first doped layer disposed above the substrate and over the first doped well. The first emitter includes a doped element disposed over a portion of the first doped layer. The second transistor includes a second collector, a second base, and a second emitter. The second collector includes a doped portion of the substrate. The second base includes a second doped well disposed in the substrate and over the doped portion of the substrate. The second emitter includes a second doped layer disposed above the substrate and over the second doped well.
US08581339B2 Structure of NPN-BJT for improving punch through between collector and emitter
A bipolar junction transistor and a manufacturing method for the same are provided. The bipolar junction transistor includes a well region, an emitter electrode, a base electrode, a collector electrode, and a conductive layer. The emitter electrode, the base electrode and the collector electrode are separated from each other by the well region. The conductive layer is on the well region between the base electrode and the collector electrode.
US08581338B2 Lateral-diffused metal oxide semiconductor device (LDMOS) and fabrication method thereof
A lateral-diffused metal oxide semiconductor device (LDMOS) includes a substrate, a first deep well, at least a field oxide layer, a gate, a second deep well, a first dopant region, a drain and a common source. The substrate has the first deep well which is of a first conductive type. The gate is disposed on the substrate and covers a portion of the field oxide layer. The second deep well having a second conductive type is disposed in the substrate and next to the first deep well. The first dopant region having a second conductive type is disposed in the second deep well. The doping concentration of the first dopant region is higher than the doping concentration of the second deep well.
US08581336B2 Power trench MOSFET rectifier
A trench MOSFET rectifier includes oxide layers having different thicknesses formed in different regions of the devices. The rectifying device also includes a source region of first conductivity type at a surface of each mesa region and a body region of a second conductivity type beneath each source region. The rectifying device also includes a dielectric layer lining the bottom and sidewall surfaces of the trenches, the portion of the dielectric layer on the bottom surface being thicker than the portion on the sidewall surface. A doped region underlies each of the first plurality of trenches. A polycrystalline silicon region filling each of the first plurality of trenches to form a gate region in each trench. A conductive material fills a plurality of contact trenches and forms ohmic contacts with the source region, body region, and gate region.
US08581330B2 Semiconductor memory device and method for manufacturing the same
According to one embodiment, a semiconductor memory device includes a stacked body, a semiconductor pillar, and a plurality of memory cells. The stacked body includes a plurality of stacked gate electrodes and inter-electrode insulating layers provided between the gate electrodes. The semiconductor pillar punches through the stacked body. The plurality of memory cells is provided in stacking direction. The memory cell includes a charge trap layer provided between the semiconductor pillar and the gate electrode via an air gap. The block insulating layer is provided between the charge trap layer and the gate electrode. Each of the plurality of memory cells is provided with a support portion configured to keep air gap distance between the charge trap layer and the semiconductor pillar.
US08581329B2 Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing same
According to one embodiment, a semiconductor device includes a substrate, a first stacked body, a memory film, a first channel body, a second stacked body, a gate insulating film and a second channel body. A step part is formed between a side face of the select gate and the second insulating layer. A film thickness of a portion covering the step part of the second channel body is thicker than a film thickness of a portion provided between the second insulating layers of the second channel body.
US08581327B2 Memory and manufacturing method thereof
A memory having isolated dual memory cells is provided. A first isolation wall and a second isolation wall are separately disposed between a source and a drain on a substrate. An isolation bottom layer and a polysilicon layer are orderly disposed on the substrate between the first and the second isolation walls. A first charge storage structure and a first gate are orderly disposed on the substrate between the first isolation wall and the source. A second charge storage structure and a second gate are orderly disposed on the substrate between the second isolation wall and the drain. A word line disposed on the polysilicon layer, the first gate, the second gate, the first isolation wall and the second isolation wall is electrically connected to the first gate, the second gate and the polysilicon layer.
US08581326B2 Nonvolatile semiconductor memory device and manufacturing method thereof
A nonvolatile semiconductor memory device including first laminated bodies each having a plurality of first gate electrodes of first memory cells, second laminated bodies each having a plurality of second gate electrodes of second memory cells, gate insulating film portions located on side surfaces of the first and second laminated bodies, first semiconductor layers that are each located between the first and second laminated bodies, first select transistors connected to an uppermost one of the first memory cells, second select transistors connected to an uppermost one of the second memory cells, isolation insulating films to separate the first and second select transistors into portions on the first and second laminated body sides, and a substrate potential applying electrode located to penetrate the isolation insulating films from a front surface side to a back surface side and connected to the first semiconductor layers.
US08581325B2 Semiconductor memory device and manufacturing method thereof
This semiconductor memory device comprises a semiconductor substrate, a plurality of tunnel insulator films formed on the substrate along a first direction and a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, a plurality of charge accumulation layers formed on the tunnel insulator films, respectively, a plurality of element isolation regions formed on the substrate, the element isolation regions including a plurality of trenches formed along the first direction between the tunnel insulator films, a plurality of element isolation films filled in the trenches, a plurality of inter-poly insulator films formed over the element isolation regions and on the upper and side surfaces of the charge accumulation layers along the second direction in a stripe shape, a plurality of air gaps formed between the element isolation films filled in the trenches and the inter-poly insulator films and a plurality of control gate electrodes formed on the inter-poly insulator films.
US08581323B2 Nonvolatile semiconductor memory device and method of manufacturing same
A memory string is formed to surround the side surface of a columnar portion and a charge storing layer, and includes plural first conductive layers functioning as gates of memory transistors, and a first protecting layer stacked to protect an upper portion of the plural first conductive layers. The plural first conductive layers constitute a first stairway portion formed stepwise such that their ends are located at different positions. Each first conductive layer constitutes a step of the first stairway portion. A top surface of a first portion of the first stairway portion is covered with the first protecting layer including a first number of layers, and A tope surface of a second portion of the first stairway portion located at a lower level than the first portion is covered with the first protecting layer including a second number of layers fewer than the first number of layers.
US08581321B2 Nonvolatile memory device and method of forming the same
A nonvolatile memory device and a method of forming the same, the device including a semiconductor substrate; a plurality of gate patterns stacked on the semiconductor substrate; inter-gate dielectric patterns between the gate patterns; active pillars sequentially penetrating the gate patterns and the inter-gate dielectric patterns to contact the semiconductor substrate; and a gate insulating layer between the active pillars and the gate patterns, wherein corners of the gate patterns adjacent to the active pillars are rounded.
US08581320B1 MOS capacitors with a finfet process
Capacitors include a first electrical terminal that has fins formed from doped semiconductor on a top layer of doped semiconductor on a semiconductor-on-insulator substrate; a second electrical terminal that has an undoped material having bottom surface shape that is complementary to the first electrical terminal, such that an interface area between the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal is larger than a capacitor footprint; and a dielectric layer separating the first and second electrical terminals.
US08581318B1 Enhanced non-noble electrode layers for DRAM capacitor cell
A metal oxide first electrode material for a MIM DRAM capacitor is formed wherein the first and/or second electrode materials or structures contain layers having one or more dopants up to a total doping concentration that will not prevent the electrode materials from crystallizing during a subsequent anneal step. Advantageously, the electrode doped with one or more of the dopants has a work function greater than about 5.0 eV. Advantageously, the electrode doped with one or more of the dopants has a resistivity less than about 1000 μΩcm. Advantageously, the electrode materials are conductive molybdenum oxide.
US08581315B2 Semiconductor device having cylindrical lower electrode of capacitor and manufacturing method thereof
To provide a semiconductor device including: plural capacitors each including a cylindrical lower electrode having an internal wall and an external wall, and an upper electrode that covers the external wall of the lower electrode via a capacitance dielectric film; and a supporting film having a buried portion buried in an internal region surrounded by the internal wall of the lower electrode, and a supporting portion a part of which is positioned within the internal region and remaining parts of which are positioned at outside of the internal region. The supporting portion sandwiches an upper end of the lower electrode at both ends of the upper end by covering the internal wall and the external wall of the upper end of the lower electrode.
US08581308B2 High temperature embedded charge devices and methods thereof
A device for storing embedded charge includes a first insulator and at least one second insulator. The first insulator has at least two outer surfaces and has a band gap of less than about 5.5 eV. The second insulator is deposited on at least each of the at least two outer surfaces of the first insulator to form at least one interface for storing charge between the first and second insulators. The second insulator has a band gap of more than about 6.0 eV.
US08581306B2 Coupled electron shuttle providing electrical rectification
A nanoscale electron shuttle with two elastically mounted conductors positioned within a gap between conductors produces asymmetrical electron conduction between the conductors when the conductors receive an AC signal to provide for rectification, detection and/or power harvesting.
US08581301B2 Nitride semiconductor device
According to one embodiment, a nitride semiconductor device has an electroconductive substrate, a first nitride semiconductor layer provided directly on the electroconductive substrate or provided on the electroconductive substrate through a buffer layer and formed of a non-doped nitride semiconductor, a second nitride semiconductor layer provided on the first nitride semiconductor layer and formed of a non-doped or n-type nitride semiconductor having a band gap wider than that of the first nitride semiconductor layer, a heterojunction field effect transistor having a source electrode, a drain electrode, and a gate electrode, a Schottky barrier diode having an anode electrode and a cathode electrode, first and second element isolation insulating layers, and a frame electrode. The frame electrode is electrically connected to the source electrode and the electroconductive substrate, and surrounds outer peripheries of the heterojunction field effect transistor and the Schottky barrier diode.
US08581296B2 Compound semiconductor device
A compound semiconductor device having reduced contact resistance to an electrode is provided. The compound semiconductor device includes an n-substrate 3 comprising a hexagonal compound semiconductor GaN and having surfaces S1 and S2; an n-electrode 13 formed on the surface S1 of the n-substrate 3; a layered product having an n-cladding layer 5, an active layer 7, a p-cladding layer 9, and a contact layer 11 formed on the surface S2 of the n-substrate 3; and a p-electrode 15 formed on the p-cladding layer 9. The number of N atoms contained on the surface S1 of the n-substrate 3 is more than the number of Ga atoms contained on the surface S1. The electrode formed on the surface S1 is an n-electrode 13. The surface S1 has an oxygen concentration of not more than 5 atomic percent. The number of Ga atoms contained on the surface S3 of the contact layer 11 is more than the number of N atoms contained on the surface S3. The electrode formed on the surface S3 is a p-electrode 15. The surface S3 has an oxygen concentration of not more than 5 atomic percent.
US08581294B2 Organic light emitting diode (OLED) display
An organic light emitting diode (OLED) display device that includes: a first substrate having a first area and a second area adjacent to the first area; an organic light emitting diode (OLED) disposed on the first area of the first substrate; a second substrate facing the first substrate such that the OLED is interposed between the first substrate and the second substrate so as to expose the second area of the first substrate; and a sealant disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate to attach and seal the first substrate to the second substrate, wherein the sealant surrounds the OLED by a predetermined distance and having a first width of one portion closer to the second area that is larger than a second width of an other portion which is farther from the second area.
US08581286B2 Light emitting device having surface-modified silicate luminophores
Exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate to a light emitting device including a light emitting diode and a surface-modified luminophore. The surface-modified luminophore includes a silicate luminophore and a fluorinated coating arranged on the silicate luminophore.
US08581283B2 Photoelectric device having group III nitride semiconductor
A photoelectric device having Group III nitride semiconductor includes a conductive layer, a metallic mirror layer located on the conductive layer, and a Group III nitride semiconductor layer located on the metallic mirror layer. The Group III nitride semiconductor layer defines a number of microstructures thereon. Each microstructure includes at least one angled face, and the angled face of each microstructure is a crystal face of the Group III nitride semiconductor layer.
US08581276B2 Light emitting device and method of manufacturing the same
Example embodiments relate to a light emitting device and a method of fabricating the light emitting device. The light emitting device may include an n-type clad layer including a plurality of nitride semiconductor layers, at least one interlayer disposed between the plurality of nitride semiconductor layers, a via hole in which a first electrode is formed, a p-type clad layer, and an active layer between the n-type clad layer and the p-type clad layer.
US08581270B2 Organic light-emitting display apparatus
An organic light-emitting display apparatus is disclosed. The organic light-emitting display apparatus includes a first sub-pixel, a second sub-pixel, and a third sub-pixel, where each of said first, second and third sub-pixels displays a different color, a substrate, a first electrode disposed on the substrate, a second electrode disposed on the first electrode, facing the first electrode, an organic emission layer disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode, including a first organic emission layer, a second organic emission layer, and a third organic emission layer, and an electron acceptor layer disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode configured to contact the organic emission layer, where the first organic emission layer is disposed in the first sub-pixel, the second organic emission layer is disposed in the second sub-pixel, and the third organic emission layer is commonly disposed over the first sub-pixel, the second sub-pixel, and the third sub-pixel, and where the electron acceptor layer is disposed between the first organic emission layer and the third organic emission layer in the first sub-pixel and between the second organic emission layer and the third organic emission layer in the second sub-pixel.
US08581256B2 Pixel structure and fabrication method of pixel structure
A pixel structure and its fabrication method are provided. The pixel structure includes a channel layer, a first patterned metal layer, a first insulation layer, a second patterned metal layer, a second insulation layer, and a pixel electrode. The first patterned metal layer includes a data line, a source, and a drain. The first insulation layer has a first opening exposing the drain. The second patterned metal layer includes a scan line and a capacitor electrode. The capacitor electrode has at least one first portion overlapping the data line. The second insulation layer has a second opening communicating with the first opening to expose the drain. The pixel electrode is connected to the drain through the first opening and the second opening and at least overlaps the first portion of the capacitor electrode.
US08581254B2 Photodetector having improved quantum efficiency
The present approach involves a radiation detector module with increased quantum efficiency and methods of fabricating the radiation detector module. The module includes a scintillator substrate and a photodetector fabricated on the scintillator substrate. The photodetector includes an anode, active organic elements, and a cathode. The module also includes a pixel element array disposed over the photodetector. During imaging, radiation attenuated by an object to be imaged may propagate through the pixel element array and through the layers of the photodetector to be absorbed by the scintillator which in response emits optical photons. The photodetector may absorb the photons and generate charge with improved quantum efficiency, as the photons may not be obscured by the cathode or other layers of the module. Further, the module may include reflective materials in the cathode and at the pixel element array to direct optical photons towards the active organic elements.
US08581251B2 Device for protecting an electronic integrated circuit housing against physical or chemical ingression
The invention relates to the creation of a housing for an integrated circuit which makes it possible to detect physical ingression into said housing. The invention applies in particular to the protection of secrets which may possibly be contained in said integrated circuit, in the event of physical attack, for example by destroying the secrets contained in an integrated circuit in the event of ingression into the housing thereof.
US08581249B2 Film thickness monitoring structure for semiconductor substrate
A semiconductor substrate includes a wafer, a first stepped structure formed of plural stepped parts formed on a surface of the wafer with a first area occupation ratio, a second stepped structure formed of plural stepped parts formed on the surface of the wafer with a second, different area occupation ratio, and an interlayer insulation film formed on the surface so as to cover the first and second stepped structures, the interlayer insulation film having a planarized top surface, wherein there are provided at least first and second film-thickness monitoring patterns for monitoring film thickness on the surface in a manner covered by the interlayer insulation film, a first pattern group is formed on the surface such that the first pattern group comprises plural patterns disposed so as to surround the first film-thickness monitoring pattern, a second pattern group is formed on the surface such that the second pattern group comprises plural patterns disposed so as to surround the second film-thickness monitoring pattern, the first film-thickness monitoring pattern and the first pattern group having a third area occupation ratio on the surface, while the second film-thickness monitoring pattern and the second pattern group having a fourth area occupation ratio on the surface, wherein the third area occupation ratio is different from the fourth area occupation ratio.
US08581247B2 Flexible semiconductor device having gate electrode disposed within an opening of a resin film
There is provided a flexible semiconductor device. The flexible semiconductor device of the present invention comprising a support layer, a semiconductor structure portion formed on the support layer, and a resin film formed on the semiconductor structure portion. The resin film comprises an opening formed by a laser irradiation therein, and also an electroconductive member which is in contact with the surface of the semiconductor structure portion is disposed within the opening of the resin film.
US08581246B2 Protective barriers for electronic devices
The present disclosure provides for electronic devices that use low cost, conductive materials as transparent conductors. The devices contain corrosion preventative conductive polymer layers and conductive innerlayer barriers that separate corrosive electrolyte from the conductors which are prone to corrosion and dissolution, while providing an uninterrupted electrical circuit. The present disclosure also allows for the use of layers which have been applied from aqueous media thereby reducing both the cost and the environmental impact of the electronic devices. Methods of manufacture are also provided.
US08581245B2 Thin film transistor, method of manufacturing thin film transistor, display unit, and electronic device
There is provided a thin film transistor including: a gate electrode; a pair of source/drain electrodes; a first oxide semiconductor layer provided between the gate electrode, and the pair of source/drain electrodes, and forming a channel; and a second oxide semiconductor layer provided on the pair of source/drain electrodes side of the first oxide semiconductor layer, and having a polarity different from that of the first oxide semiconductor layer.
US08581239B2 Package structure and semiconductor structure thereof
A semiconductor structure comprises a carrier, a plurality of under bump metallurgy layers, a plurality of copper containing bumps and an organic barrier layer, wherein the carrier comprises a protective layer and a plurality of conductive pads, mentioned protective layer comprises a plurality of openings, the conductive pads exposed by the openings, mentioned under bump metallurgy layers being formed on the conductive pads, mentioned copper containing bumps being formed on the under bump metallurgy layers, each of the copper containing bumps comprises a top surface and a ring surface in connection with the top surface, mentioned organic barrier layer having a first coverage portion, and mentioned first coverage portion covers the top surface and the ring surface of each of the copper containing bumps.
US08581238B2 Dithienothiophene derivatives
An organic compound represented by the following general formula (I) wherein n is an integer from 1 to 500, inclusive, and R1 and R2 are each independently a moiety having an atom length of from about 8 atoms to about 20 atoms.
US08581230B2 Light-emitting device having enhanced luminescence by using surface plasmon resonance and method of fabricating the same
A quantum dot light-emitting device includes a substrate, a first electrode, a hole injection layer (“HIL”), a hole transport layer (“HTL”), an emitting layer, an electron transport layer (“ETL”), a plurality of nanoplasmonic particles buried in the ETL, and a second electrode.
US08581226B2 Nonvolatile memory device
According to one embodiment, a nonvolatile memory device includes a word line interconnect layer, a bit line interconnect layer, and a pillar. The word line interconnect layer includes a plurality of word lines extending in a first direction. The bit line interconnect layer includes a plurality of bit lines extending in a second direction. The pillar is disposed between each of the word lines and each of the bit lines. The pillar includes a current selection film and a plurality of variable resistance films stacked on the current selection film. One variable resistance film includes a metal and either oxygen or nitrogen. Remainder of the variable resistance films include the metal, either oxygen or nitrogen, and a highly electronegative substance having electronegativity higher than electronegativity of the metal. A concentration of highly electronegative substance in the remainder of the variable resistance films is different among the variable resistance films.
US08581204B2 Apparatus for monitoring ion implantation
An apparatus for monitoring an ion distribution of a wafer comprises a first sensor and a sensor. The first sensor, the second sensor and the wafer are placed in an effective range of a uniform ion implantation current profile. A controller determines the ion dose of each region of the wafer based upon the detected signal from the first sensor and the second sensor. In addition, the controller adjusts the scanning frequency of an ion beam or the movement speed of the wafer to achieve a uniform ion distribution on the wafer.
US08581203B2 Radiation detecting device and method of operating
A method of operating a radiation-detecting device includes charging a first charge storage region of a charge storage structure to place a first charge value at the first charge storage region, and charging a second charge storage region of the charge storage structure to place a second charge value at the second charge storage region. The method further includes conducting a first read operation to determine a change in the first charge value at the first charge storage region at a first time after charging the first charge storage region, and determining a first radiation flux value for an environment containing the charge storage structure based on the change in the first charge value at the first time.
US08581192B2 Pyroelectric detector and method for manufacturing same, pyroelectric detection device, and electronic instrument
A pyroelectric detector includes a pyroelectric detection element, a support member, a fixing part and a first reducing gas barrier layer. A first side of the support member faces a cavity and the pyroelectric detection element is mounted and supported on a second side opposite from the first side. An opening part communicated with the cavity is formed on a periphery of the support member in plan view from the second side of the support member. The fixing part supports the support member. The first reducing gas barrier layer covers a first surface of the support member on the first side, a side surface of the support member facing the opening part, and a part of a second surface of the support member on the second side and the pyroelectric detection element exposed as viewed from the second side of the support member.
US08581191B2 Stabilization of coldshield bodies
According to one embodiment, an optical device comprises a housing. A structure is disposed within the housing. The structure has an optical entrance whereby radiation may enter. An aperture is located between the optical entrance and a radiation detector. At least one brace is rigidly coupled to the structure and the housing.
US08581184B2 Quadrupole mass spectrometer
Provided is a quadrupole mass spectrometer including direct-current voltage sources having response characteristics which ensure that the response time of the direct-current voltage will be shorter than the period of time required for an ion having the highest mass-to-charge ratio (m/z) among the ions introduced into a quadrupole mass filter to pass through this filter. Main rod electrodes and pre-rod electrodes are connected to each other via primary differentiation circuits. Thus, in the transient state of the voltage change due to the switching of the mass-to-charge ratio, among the ions entering the quadrupole mass filter, ions having low m/z values can be removed by a pre-electrode unit, and ions having high m/z values can be removed by a main electrode unit. Accordingly, a large amount of ions can be prevented from passing through the filter and entering an ion detector.
US08581182B2 Ion guiding device
An ion guiding device is disclosed comprising a first ion guide which is conjoined with a second ion guide. Ions are urged across a radial pseudo-potential barrier which separates the two guiding regions by a DC potential gradient. Ions may be transferred from an ion guide which has a relatively large cross-sectional profile to an ion guide which has a relatively small cross-sectional profile in order to improve the subsequent ion confinement of the ions.
US08581179B2 Protein sequencing with MALDI mass spectrometry
In a mass spectrometer, sample ions are produced by using matrix assisted laser desorption with a matrix substance that supports spontaneous, non-ergodic ISD fragmentation and a laser light source with nanosecond light pulses and a multiple spot beam profile. A plurality of individual time-of-flight spectra are recorded from the resulting ions in such a way that amplification of ion signals in the mass spectrometer detector is initially reduced so that only ions with masses near a mass range limit are initially recorded. During the repeated acquisitions of the individual time-of-flight spectra, both the detector amplification and the mass range limit are increased. By these methods, it is possible to evaluate c and z fragment ions in lower mass ranges and to directly read N-terminal sequences from near terminus up to 80 amino acids and beyond, and C-terminal sequences up to more than 60 amino acids.
US08581178B2 Combined mass and differential mobility spectrometry and associated methods, systems, and devices
The invention relates generally to systems, methods and devices for analyzing samples and, more particularly, to systems using a mass analyzer in combination with a differential mobility spectrometer to enhance the analysis process of constituents of a sample.
US08581176B2 Method for high efficiency tandem mass spectrometry
A system and method for performing MS/MS of everything are provided. Ionisable materials separated in order of molecular weight in a plurality of mass ranges are received at a mass spectrometer system in a given order in time, each mass range comprising a respective center mass value and a respective width. The ionisable materials are ionised in the given order that each of the plurality of mass ranges are received, to form respective precursor ions in a respective given mass range. The respective precursor ions are filtered via a mass filter module, a mass scan range of the mass filter module synchronized with the given order in which each of the plurality of mass ranges are received. The respective precursor ions are fragmented, via a fragmentation module, to form respective product ions. The respective product ions are analyzed in a mass spectrometer module to produce product ion spectra.
US08581171B2 Cyclic A/D converter, image sensor device, and method for generating digital signal from analog signal
A cyclic A/D converter which can reduce the number of reference voltages for D/A conversion is provided. The cyclic A/D converter (11) comprises a gain stage (15), an A/D converter circuit (17), a logic circuit (19), and a D/A converter circuit (21). In an operational action of the gain stage (15), an operational value (VOP) is generated by the use of an operational amplifier circuit (23) and capacitors (25, 27, 29). The gain stage (15) operates as receiving three kinds of voltage signal from the D/A converter circuit (21) by the switching of two kinds of voltage signal (VDA1, VDA2) to be applied to the capacitors (25, 27) in a switching circuit (31). That is, the D/A converter circuit (21) provides a voltage signal (VRH) to the capacitors (25, 27), in response to a value (D=2) of a digital signal (B0, B1), provides voltage signals (VRH, VRL) to the capacitors (25, 27), respectively, in response to a value (D=1) of the signal (B0, B1), and provides the voltage signal (VRL) to the capacitors (25, 27), in response to a value (D=0) of the signal (B0, B1).
US08581156B2 Apparatus with heating part
An apparatus has a chassis has a chassis inner face and a chassis outer face, at least one heating part accommodated in the chassis, wherein at least a portion of the heating part faces the chassis inner face with an internal space therebetween, and a film having a first face and a second face bonded to at least a portion of the heating part facing the chassis inner face. The chassis outer face is located on a side opposite the chassis inner face portion and in contact with an external space and having a radiation film interposed therebetween. The film includes a convex part, a concave part, or a repeated pattern of convex and concave parts in the first face or the second face. At least one of the first face and the second face is in contact with the internal space.
US08581151B2 Steam oven water delivery and drain valve systems and methods
Embodiments of the present invention provide steam oven drain valve systems and methods for draining steam ovens and associated water lines on aircraft and other passenger transport vehicles.
US08581131B2 Modular terminal, particularly an isolating terminal
A modular terminal that has a terminal housing, a busbar composed of two sections, two terminal elements for connecting a conductor to each section of the busbar, and an isolating blade which is pivotally mounted in the terminal housing. The two sections are interconnected in a first position of the isolating blade while being disconnected from each other in a second position of the isolating blade. The ends of the sections of the busbar which face away from the terminal elements are bent in such a way that the end of the first section of the busbar contacts the isolating blade in an upper contact zone while the end of the second section (4) of the busbar contacts the isolating blade in a lower contact zone in the first position of the isolating blade.
US08581105B2 Electrical device with teeth joining layers and method for making the same
A process of making an article of manufacture, the process including constructing an electrical device which implements circuitry having a portion in cavities, the portion defined by an epoxy dielectric material delivered with solid content sufficient that etching the epoxy forms cavities located in, and underneath an initial surface of, the dielectric material, sufficient that the etching of the epoxy uses non-homogeneity with the solid content in bringing about formation of the cavities and sufficient that the etching of the epoxy is such that a plurality of the cavities have a cross-sectional width that is greater than a maximum depth with respect to the initial surface, wherein the etching forms the cavities, and a conductive material, a portion of the conductive material in the cavities thereby forming teeth in the cavities, such that the conductive material forms the portion of the circuitry of the electrical device.
US08581098B2 Socket box
A socket box, equipped with means allowing it to be fixed to a circular opening made in the wall of a block of a building's wall upon an expansion effect of the socket box's structure, whose structure portions are displaced by using expansion screws, which, when turned, cause the socket box to be locked in opening made in block.
US08581088B2 Thermoelectric power generation apparatus and method
A thermoelectric power generation apparatus includes a thermoelectric device having a first surface, an opposed second surface, and a first thermal energy storage unit operatively coupled to the first surface of the thermoelectric device setting the first surface at a first temperature. The thermoelectric power generation apparatus also includes a second thermal energy storage unit having a second temperature, the second thermal energy unit for setting the second surface of the thermoelectric device at an operative temperature in response to a temperature difference between the first temperature of the first surface and the second temperature of the second thermal energy storage unit. The thermoelectric device generates power in response to a temperature differential between the first temperature of the first surface and the operative temperature of the second surface.
US08581087B2 Tone generating style notification control for wind instrument having mouthpiece section
Detection is made of a physical amount caused by operation performed on a mouthpiece with a human player's mouth, and a tone pitch corresponding to the detected physical amount is identified by referencing a memory storing information defining relationship between various ranges of the physical amount and tone pitches. Expected tone generating style is notified to the player based on the identified tone pitch. The memory contains a pitch table defining relationship between various ranges of the physical amount and tone pitches, and a gain table defining gain information corresponding to deviations of the physical amount from a predetermined reference point for each tone pitch and within the range of the physical amount corresponding to the tone pitch. For the detected physical amount, a tone pitch and gain information are identified by referencing the pitch gain tables, so that the identified tone pitch and gain information is notified.
US08581084B2 Tempo counter device
The embodiments herein provide a beat counter device for sampling a plurality of voice samples by differentiating tempos from each other in a selected rhythm. The beat counter device comprises a seven segment indicator, a display unit, at least one directional key, an adjustment wheel, a volume button, an ON/OFF button, a microphone, a microphone port and a head phone port. The pressing operation of the ON/OFF button results in the microphone to perform a sampling of voices samples by separating a tempo from another tempo associated with a selected rhythm. The seven-segment indicator counts the number of tempos in the selected rhythm in each multi-measure time signature. The sampled voices are outputted through the headphone port.
US08581081B1 Maize variety hybrid X13A454
A novel maize variety designated X13A454 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing hybrid maize variety X13A454 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X13A454 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X13A454, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X13A454. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X13A454.
US08581077B2 Plants and seeds of corn variety CV098768
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the corn variety designated CV098768. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CV098768, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CV098768 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to corn seeds and plants produced by crossing plants of variety CV098768 with plants of another variety, such as another inbred line. The invention further relates to the inbred and hybrid genetic complements of plants of variety CV098768.
US08581075B2 Plants and seeds of corn variety CV497880
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the corn variety designated CV497880. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CV497880, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CV497880 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to corn seeds and plants produced by crossing plants of variety CV497880 with plants of another variety, such as another inbred line. The invention further relates to the inbred and hybrid genetic complements of plants of variety CV497880.
US08581072B2 Plants and seeds of corn variety CV214305
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the corn variety designated CV214305. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CV214305, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CV214305 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to corn seeds and plants produced by crossing plants of variety CV214305 with plants of another variety, such as another inbred line. The invention further relates to the inbred and hybrid genetic complements of plants of variety CV214305.
US08581070B2 Plants and seeds of corn variety CV368215
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the corn variety designated CV368215. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CV368215, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CV368215 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to corn seeds and plants produced by crossing plants of variety CV368215 with plants of another variety, such as another inbred line. The invention further relates to the inbred and hybrid genetic complements of plants of variety CV368215.
US08581067B1 Maize variety hybrid X08B801
A novel maize variety designated X08B801 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing hybrid maize variety X08B801 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X08B801 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X08B801, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X08B801. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X08B801.
US08581059B2 Tomato line FDR 14-2098
The invention provides seed and plants of tomato hybrid EX15567631 and the parent lines thereof. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of tomato hybrid EX15567631 and the parent lines thereof, and to methods for producing a tomato plant produced by crossing such plants with themselves or with another tomato plant, such as a plant of another genotype. The invention further relates to seeds and plants produced by such crossing. The invention further relates to parts of such plants, including the fruit and gametes of such plants.
US08581054B2 Soybean variety A1025934
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated A1025934. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety A1025934. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety A1025934 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety A1025934 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods.
US08581051B2 Soybean variety XB07D12
A novel soybean variety, designated XB07D12 is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XB07D12, cells from soybean variety XB07D12, plants of soybean XB07D12, and plant parts of soybean variety XB07D12. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XB07D12 with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic trait, a mutant trait, and/or a native trait into soybean variety XB07D12, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XB07D12, and methods of characterizing soybean variety XB07D12. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XB07D12 are further provided.
US08581047B2 Corn plant and seed corresponding to transgenic event MON89034 and methods for detection and use thereof
The present invention provides a transgenic corn event MON89034, and cells, seeds, and plants comprising DNA diagnostic for the corn event. The invention also provides compositions comprising nucleotide sequences that are diagnostic for said corn event in a sample, methods for detecting the presence of said corn event nucleotide sequences in a sample, probes and primers for use in detecting nucleotide sequences that are diagnostic for the presence of said corn event in a sample, growing the seeds of such corn event into corn plants, and breeding to produce corn plants comprising DNA diagnostic for the corn event.
US08581042B2 Polypeptides having beta-glucosidase activity and polynucleotides encoding same
The present invention relates to isolated polypeptides having beta-glucosidase activity and isolated polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides. The invention also relates to nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides as well as methods of producing and using the polypeptides.
US08581040B2 Methods of producing GABA
The present invention describes an alternative approach to increase GABA production in prokaryotes or eukaryotes, namely by the insertion of the putrescine catabolic pathway in organisms where the pathway does not exist or has not clearly been identified. The invention describes methods for the use of polynucleotides that encode functional putrescine aminotransferase (PAT) and gamma-aminobutyricaldehyde dehydrogenase (GABAlde DeHase) polypeptides in plants to increase GABA production. The preferred embodiment of the invention is in plants but other organisms may be used. Changes in GABA availability will improve growth and increase tolerance to biotic and abiotic stress.
US08581039B2 Methods and materials for conferring resistance to pests and pathogens of plants
Methods and materials for conferring pest resistance to plants are provided. Plants are transformed with a silencing construct homologous to a gene of a plant pest that is essential for the survival, development, or pathogenicity of the pest. This results in the plant producing RNAi to the selected gene, which, when ingested by the pest results in silencing of the gene and a subsequent reduction of the pest's ability to harm the plant. In other embodiments, the pest's reduced ability to harm the plant is passed on to pest progeny. Methods and materials for depathogenesis of pests is also provided.
US08581036B2 Plant peptide gamma-zein for delivery of biomolecules into plant cells
A method of introducing a molecule of interest into a plant cell having a cell wall includes interacting a gamma-zein peptide with a molecule of interest to form a gamma-zein linked structure. The gamma-zein linked structure is then placed in contact with the plant cell having a cell wall, and allowing uptake of the gamma-zein linked structure into the plant cell. Alternatively, a gene of interest can be expressed in a plant cell having an intact cell wall by interacting a gamma-zein peptide with the gene of interest to form a gamma-zein linked gene structure, allowing uptake of the gamma-zein linked gene structure into the plant cell, and expressing the gene of interest in the plant cell and its progeny.
US08581033B1 Maize variety inbred PH18GY
A novel maize variety designated PH18GY and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH18GY with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH18GY through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH18GY or a locus conversion of PH18GY with another maize variety.
US08581032B1 Maize variety inbred PH13FW
A novel maize variety designated PH13FW and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH13FW with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH13FW through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH13FW or a locus conversion of PH13FW with another maize variety.
US08581027B2 Forward breeding
A method for plant breeding comprising the steps of: selecting a donor parent possessing a trait of interest; crossing the donor parent to a first hybrid parent; selecting a first generation progeny of the cross; and crossing the first generation progeny with a second hybrid parent to produce a hybrid back cross.
US08581025B2 Recombinant constructs and transgenic fluorescent ornamental fish therefrom
The present invention relates to the method and use of reef coral fluorescent proteins in making transgenic red, green and yellow fluorescent zebrafish. Preferably, such fluorescent zebrafish are fertile and used to establish a population of transgenic zebrafish and to provide to the ornamental fish industry for the purpose of marketing. Thus, new varieties of ornamental fish of different fluorescence colors from a novel source are developed.
US08581023B2 Purple transgenic fluorescent ornamental fish
The present invention relates to the method and use of fluorescent proteins in making purple transgenic fluorescent fish. Also disclosed are methods of establishing a population of such transgenic fish and methods of providing them to the ornamental fish industry for the purpose of marketing. Thus, new varieties of ornamental fish of different fluorescence colors from a novel source are developed.
US08581019B2 Absorbent article having increased absorption and retention capacity for proteinaceous or serous body fluids
Absorbent articles for the absorption of proteinaceous or serous body fluids, particularly menses. The absorbent article has a better handling towards such fluids, both in terms of retention capacity and absorption rate, by comprising a selected polyacrylate based material.
US08581013B2 Biorenewable naphtha composition and methods of making same
The present invention generally relates to a method for producing a naphtha product from a renewable feedstock. The method includes hydrotreating the renewable feedstock to produce a hydrotreating unit heavy fraction that includes n-paraffins, and hydrocracking the hydrotreating unit heavy fraction to produce a hydrocracking unit product that includes the naphtha product. The method also includes separating the naphtha fraction and optionally recycling the hydrocracking unit heavy fraction through the hydrocracking unit. The present invention also relates to a biorenewable naphtha product suitable for use as feed stock for steam crackers and catalytic reforming units, and for use as fuel, or fuel blend stock.
US08581011B2 Process for the production of chlorinated and/or fluorinated propenes
The present invention provides one-step processes for the production of chlorinated and/or fluorinated propenes. The processes provide good product yield with low, e.g., less than about 20%, or even less than 10%, concentrations of residues/by-products. Advantageously, the processes may be conducted at low temperatures than 500° C. so that energy savings are provided, and/or at higher pressures so that high throughputs may also be realized. The use of catalysts or initiators may provide additional enhancements to conversion rates and selectivity, as may adjustments to the molar ratio of the reactants.
US08581010B2 Formation of ethanol from methanol
A process is disclosed for the production of ethanol from methanol whereby methanol is condensed in the gas phase over a heterogeneous catalyst to produce ethanol and water.
US08581008B2 Process for preparing α,β-unsaturated C10-aldehydes
The invention relates to a method for continuously producing α,β-unsaturated C10-aldehydes from aliphatic C5-aldehydes, comprising the following steps: aldol-condensing aliphatic C5-aldehydes into α,β-unsaturated C10-aldehydes in the presence of an aqueous base in a tube reactor; phase separating the output of the tube reactor into an aqueous catalyst phase and an organic product phase; separating the organic product phase into α,β-unsaturated C10-aldehydes, aliphatic C5-aldehydes, and auxiliary products; discharging a part of the aqueous catalyst phase to remove the reaction water and supplementing said part with liquor solution and subsequently returning said part to the tube reactor. The task of the invention is to improve a method of said kind in a way such that it requires lower energy input. This is achieved in that the aliphatic C5-aldehydes and/or the α,β-unsaturated C10-aldehydes are dispersed in the aqueous base as drops, wherein the average Sauter diameter of the drops is between 0.2 mm and 2 mm.
US08581003B2 Process for producing aliphatic carboxylic acid amide
The present invention relates to a process for producing an aliphatic carboxylic acid amide, including the step of reacting an aliphatic carboxylic acid or an alkyl ester thereof containing an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms with a mono- or dialkylamine containing an alkyl group or groups having 1 to 4 carbon atoms in the presence of a solid acid catalyst containing titanium oxide as a main component and an oxide or oxides of at least one element selected from elements (except titanium) belonging to Groups 4, 5 and 14 of the long form of the periodic table, wherein the catalyst has an average particle diameter of 2 μm or more. The process for producing an aliphatic carboxylic acid amide according to the present invention has a high reaction efficiency of the reaction of the aliphatic carboxylic acid or alkyl ester thereof with the mono- or dialkylamine, and shows an excellent filtration efficiency in separation of the catalyst.
US08581001B2 Metformin-cysteine prodrug
A metformin-cysteine prodrug. It is believed that the prodrug of the present invention will transport in the LAT1 and LAT2 transporter system. Because the LAT1 and LAT2 transporters are important and effective transporters of amino acids in both the small intestine and colon, it is believed that the LAT-transportable prodrugs of the present invention will be effectively absorbed both in small intestine and in the colon. The increased absorption window provided by the present invention should result in highly sustained plasma concentrations of metformin, thereby increasing the effectiveness of the medication and allowing for a single daily dose.
US08580997B2 Process for preparing R-beta-amino phenylbutyric acid derivatives
Disclosed is a process for preparing single enantiomers of beta-amino phenylbutyric acid derivatives and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, which affords the desired compounds having special optical configuration. The process comprises a step of chemical synthesis and a step of resolving the optical isomers of beta-amino phenylbutyric acid derivatives with a resolving agent. The resolving step comprises reacting the optical isomers with resolving agents, such as di-para-toluoyl-L-tartaric acid and di-para-toluoyl-D-tartaric acid. The obtained R-beta-amino phenylbutyric acid derivatives (I) have high optical purity, and the total yield of the accumulative resolution of the laevo and the dextro isomer is up to above 70%.
US08580996B2 Aromatic carbonate, method of preparing the same, and polycarbonate prepared using the same
A method of preparing aromatic carbonate from dialkyl carbonate includes reacting an aromatic hydroxyl compound and dialkyl carbonate in the presence of at least one type of samarium-containing catalyst represented by Formula 1, Formula 2, or a combination thereof: SmX3  [Formula 1] wherein each X is the same or different and is independently C1 to C10 alkoxy, C1 to C10 alkyl phenoxy or phenoxy, and wherein R1 and R2 are the same or different and are independently hydrogen or C1 to C6 alkyl.
US08580994B2 Process for the preparation of haloalkylalkoxysilanes and haloalkylhalosilanes
This invention involves a process for the preparation of haloalkylalkoxysilanes and haloalkylhalosilancs. The process comprises reacting an alkoxyhydridosilane or a halohydridosilanc silane with an alkenylhalide compound in the presence of a catalytic amount of an iridium containing catalyst. When a halohydridosilane is the silane reactant. The resulting haloalkylhalosilane may be alkoxylated by reaction with a C1-C6, alcohol. In another aspect of the invention, the reacting is conducted under a reduced oxygen atmosphere to improve the catalyst activity and the yield of the resulting haloalkylhalosilane or haloalkylalkox vsi lane.
US08580993B2 Amino vinylsilane precursors for stressed SiN films
The present invention is a method to increase the intrinsic compressive stress in plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) silicon nitride (SiN) and silicon carbonitride (SiCN) thin films, comprising depositing the film from an amino vinylsilane-based precursor. More specifically the present invention uses the amino vinylsilane-based precursor selected from the formula: [RR1N]xSiR3y(R2)z, where x+y+z=4, x=1-3, y=0-2, and z=1-3; R, R1 and R3 can be hydrogen, C1 to C10 alkane, alkene, or C4 to C12 aromatic; each R2 is a vinyl, allyl or vinyl-containing functional group.
US08580991B2 Aluminium complexes and use thereof as a catalyst in intramolecular ring closure reactions
To provide a process for increasing the proportion of an optical isomer of not only a compound having a closed ring but also a compound not having a closed ring when an optical isomer mixture of a compound having both a formyl group and a double bond capable of causing a carbonyl-ene ring closing reaction in the same molecule is subjected to a ring closing reaction. A process for increasing the proportion of an optical isomer characterized by subjecting an optical isomer mixture of a compound having both a formyl group and a double bond capable of causing a carbonyl-ene ring closing reaction in the same molecule to a ring closing reaction in the presence of a predetermined aluminum complex represented by the general formula: [Al2(L1)n(L2)3-n]m.
US08580989B2 Process for the preparation of indium chlordialkoxides
The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of indium(III) halodialkoxides of the generic formula InX(OR)2 where X=F, Cl, Br, I and R=alkyl radical, alkoxyalkyl radical, in which a composition (A) comprising an indium trihalide InX3, where X=F, Cl, Br and/or I, and at least one alcohol of the generic formula ROH, where R=alkyl radical, alkyloxyalkyl radical, is reacted with a composition (B) comprising at least one secondary amine of the generic formula R′2NH, where R′=alkyl radical, to the indium(III) halodialkoxides which can be prepared by the process and to their use.
US08580987B2 Method for reprocessing biodiesel sludge
A method for reprocessing a phase substantially consisting of steryl glycoside/fatty acid alkyl ester/water agglomerates, which was formed when fatty acid alkyl ester generated by transesterification of vegetable oils or animal fats was washed with water, wherein the water content is evaporated by heating the phase and subsequently the steryl glycosides are split into their sterol and sugar fractions in the presence of an acid catalyst.
US08580984B2 Esters of secondary hydroxy fatty acid oligomers and preparation thereof
Prepare an ester of a secondary hydroxy fatty acid oligomer by first partially homopolymerizing a hydroxylated fatty acid compound, reacting the partially homopolymerized hydroxylated fatty acid compound with an alcohol to form an intermediate product, and capping the intermediate product with an acid, acid anhydride or ester. The ester of a secondary hydroxy fatty acid oligomer may be represented as follows: (3) where R is an alkyl group that contains from six to twelve carbon atoms, R1 is hydrogen or a methyl radical, x is an integer within a range of from 8 to 12, n is an integer between 1 and 20, R2 is an alkyl group that contains from one carbon atom to twenty carbon atoms and R3 is an alkyl group that contains from one carbon atom to twelve carbon atoms.
US08580981B2 Process for the preparation of (3R,3aS,6aR)-hexahydrofuro [2,3-b] furan-3-yl (1S,2R)-3-[[(4-aminophenyl) sulfonyl] (isobutyl) amino]-1-benzyl-2-hydroxypropylcarbamate
The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of (3R,3aS,6aR)-hexahydrofuro[2,3-b]furan-3-yl(1S,2R)-3-[[(4-aminophenyl)sulfonyl](isobutyl)amino]-1-benzyl-2-hydroxypropylcarbamate as well as novel intermediates for use in said process. (3R,3aS,6aR)-hexahydrofuro[2,3-b]furan-3-yl(1S,2R)-3-[[(4-aminophenyl)sulfonyl](isobutyl)amino]-1-benzyl-2-hydroxypropylcarbamate is particularly useful as an HIV protease inhibitor.
US08580968B2 Benzothiazole and benzooxazole derivatives and methods of use
Compounds of formula (I) are useful in treating conditions or disorders prevented by or ameliorated by histamine-3 receptor ligands. Also disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions of compounds of formula (I), methods for using such compounds and compositions, and a process for preparing the compounds.
US08580960B2 Process for synthesis of phenoxy diaminopyrimidine derivatives
A method for preparing a compound of formula k or a salt or solvate thereof, wherein R1 is as defined herein, the method comprising treating a compound of formula j or a salt or solvate thereof, with ammonia, to form the compound of formula k.
US08580949B2 Enzymatic synthesis of carba-NAD
The disclosure concerns the enzymatic synthesis of stable analogues of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide NAD/NADH and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate NADP/NADPH, the so-called “carba-NADs”, i.e. analogues of NAD/NADH or NADP/NADPH, respectively, comprising a carbacyclic sugar instead of ribose.
US08580948B2 Modulation of forkhead box O1A expression
Antisense compounds, compositions and methods are provided for modulating the expression of forkhead box O1A. The compositions comprise antisense compounds, particularly antisense oligonucleotides, targeted to nucleic acids encoding forkhead box O1A. Methods of using these compounds for modulation of forkhead box O1A expression and for treatment of diseases associated with expression of forkhead box O1A are provided, in particular, for methods of treating diabetes.
US08580946B2 Multi-conjugate of siRNA and preparing method thereof
The present invention relates to a multi-conjugate of small interfering RNA (siRNA) and a preparing method of the same, more precisely a multi-conjugate of siRNA prepared by direct binding of double stranded sense/antisense siRNA monomers or indirect covalent bonding mediated by a cross-linking agent or a polymer, and a preparing method of the same. The preparing method of a siRNA multi-conjugate of the present invention is characterized by simple and efficient reaction and thereby the prepared siRNA multi-conjugate of the present invention has high molecular weight multiple times the conventional siRNA, so that it has high negative charge density, suggesting that it has excellent ionic interaction with a cationic gene carrier and high gene delivery efficiency.
US08580933B2 Variable tangential flow filtration
The current invention reports a method for concentrating an immunoglobulin solution by tangential flow filtration wherein the transmembrane pressure and the cross-flow are variable.
US08580932B2 Method of thermostabilization of a protein and/or stabilization towards organic solvents
Thermostabilization of a protein where the protein contains access routes and wherein at least one amino acid in the bottleneck of the access route is mutated, includes identifying the amino acids of the bottleneck and the amino acids control exchange of the solvent between a buried protein core and surrounding environment and/or in the packing of the amino acids inside the access route. Modification of the amino acids are determined so that the packing of the amino acids inside the tunnel is improved and the access route prevents access of undesired solvent molecules to the protein core, while allowing passage of the compounds necessary at the protein core to enable the protein to perform its biological function.
US08580928B2 CDR-repaired antibodies
The present application concerns restoring antigen binding during humanization of antibodies through the selection of repaired hypervariable regions rather than through framework changes.
US08580922B2 Peptide linkers for polypeptide compositions and methods for using same
Disclosed herein are novel peptide linkers and polypeptide compositions comprising the linkers (e.g., chimeric polypeptides) and methods of using the polypeptide compositions. The compositions and methods are particularly useful for targeting/delivering a polypeptide or protein of interest (e.g., a therapeutic polypeptide) to a cell, tissue or organ of interest in order to treat various diseases or disorders (e.g., lysosomal storage disorders).
US08580918B2 Peptidic GLP-2 agonists
Novel GLP-2 analogs with improved pharmacokinetic properties are described as well as their use in the treatment of disease.
US08580917B2 Method of purifying block copolymers
The invention relates to block polymers, for example, arborescent copolymer compounds, and to methods of making and purifying such compounds. In one embodiment, the invention relates to arborescent polymer compounds that contain one or more styrene polymeric blocks in combination with one or more isobutylene polymeric blocks. In another embodiment, the invention relates to methods for purifying arborescent polymer compounds that contain at least one styrene polymeric block in combination with at least one isobutylene polymeric block.
US08580911B2 Polycarbonate block copolymers
The disclosure pertains to amphiphilic block copolymers comprising an aliphatic polycarbonate chain coupled to a hydrophilic polymer. Such amphiphilic polymers may have the formula A-L-B, where A- is a polycarbonate or polyethercarbonate chain having from about 3 to about 500 repeating units, L is a linker moiety and —B is a hydrophilic oligomer having from about 4 to about 200 repeating units. Provided copolymers are useful as surfactants capable of emulsifying aqueous solutions and supercritical carbon dioxide. Provided copolymers also have utility as additives for use in enhanced oil recovery methods.
US08580904B2 Silicone monomer
The invention provides a silicone monomer which is suitable for the manufacture of ophthalmic devices, such as contact lenses, intraocular lenses, and keratoprosthesis, a monomer composition containing the monomer, and a polymer which fulfills both surface hydrophilicity and oxygen permeability at the same time. The silicone monomer of the present invention is represented by the formula (1a) or (1b): (X: a monovalent C2 to C6 organic group having one or more —OH and optionally one O or N in its main chain; Z1 to Z9: a C1 to C4 alkyl group; n: 1 to 3; a and b: 0 or 1).
US08580902B2 Catalyst system, process for olefin polymerization, and polymer compositions produced therefrom
Provided are catalyst systems, processes for polymerizing one or more olefins, polymers resulting therefrom, and articles prepared from such polymers. The processes comprise contacting under polymerization conditions one or more olefin monomers, preferably propylene, with a catalyst system comprising a transition metal compound and an activator of the formula (1) or (2) as described herein. The polymer compositions described herein exhibit advantageously narrow composition distributions and high melting points in comparison to conventional polymers having the same comonomer content. The polymers described herein exhibit improved properties, e.g., pellet stability, impact properties, heat seal properties, and structural integrity in film and fabricated parts applications.
US08580879B2 Resin composition of high thermal conductivity and high glass transition temperature (Tg) and for use with PCB, and prepreg and coating thereof
A resin composition includes solid brominated epoxy resin of 20-70 wt %, a hardener of 1-10 wt %, a promoter of 0.1-10 wt %, inorganic powder of 0.01-20 wt %, high thermal conductivity powder of 5-85 wt % closest packed by Horsfield packing model and a processing aid of 0-10 wt %; the resin composition possesses high glass transition temperature ranged from 169° C. to 235° C. measured by DSC, high thermal conductivity ranged from 5.7 W/m·K to 14.2 W/m·K, and excellent heat resistance as well as flame retardancy. The resin composition, which acts as a dielectric layer of a printed circuit board so as to endow the PCB with high thermal conductivity, is a high thermal conductivity prepreg formed by retting or a high thermal conductivity coating formed by coating. As a result, prompt dissipation of heat generated by electronic components on the PCB is achievable so that service life and stability of the electronic components are improved.
US08580876B2 Encapsulated phenolic antioxidants
The present invention pertains to a concentrated aqueous polymer dispersion with an average particle size of less than 1000 nm comprising a polymer carrier, a non-polar organic phenolic antioxidant and a surfactant. The present invention also pertains to a process for the preparation of said concentrated aqueous polymer dispersion, to a polymer powder obtainable from said concentrated aqueous polymer dispersion, to a composition comprising an organic material and said concentrated aqueous polymer dispersion or said polymer powder and to the use of said concentrated aqueous polymer dispersion or said polymer powder as stabilizer for organic material.
US08580865B2 Phase-and sedimentation-stable, plastically deformable preparation with intrinsic pore forming, intended for example for filling bone defects or for use as bone substitute material, and method of producing it
The invention relates to a phase and sedimentation-stable, plastically deformable preparation with intrinsic pore formation that can be used for instance for filling bone defects and for augmentation, and also relates to a method for producing same. The object of the invention, to provide a phase and sedimentation-stable, plastically deformable implant material with intrinsic pore formation, that is not complex to create, and that can be inserted into a bone defect by injection or alternatively can be applied to/fitted in a bone defect as a kneadable mass, is attained in that a plastically deformable preparation for bone construction/replacement based on ceramic suspension includes a particulate, porous component that is not easily soluble in water and at least one liquid, wax-like, or gel component that is dissolved in water or alcohol, the component that is not easily soluble in water being 60-98% by weight and the composition dissolved in water or alcohol being 1-30% by weight, the particles of the particulate component having a diameter in a size range that is essentially greater than a phagocytabler particle and smaller than the passage diameter of standard injection cannulas and the portion of the dissolved component in the water or alcohol being 0.1-3% by weight.
US08580864B2 Trimer catalysts with improved processability and surface cure
The present invention provides trimerization catalyst compositions having an α,β-unsaturated carboxylate salt and methods to produce a polyisocyanurate/polyurethane foam using such trimerization catalyst compositions.
US08580862B2 Continuous process for polymerization and emulsification of siloxane
A method and apparatus for making silicone-in-water emulsions comprising high viscosity silicone polymers is provided. In various aspects, polyorganosiloxanes are polymerized into high viscosity silicone polymers then emulsified in a continuous process, wherein the process is carried out using a single apparatus. In some aspects, the provided apparatus is an extruder for polymerizing polyorganosiloxanes into high viscosity silicone polymers and then emulsifying such polymers.
US08580861B2 Chemical composition for skin care formulations
The present invention provides preservative compositions suitable for replacing, partially or in totality, conventional preservatives in skin care and hygiene cosmetic or pharmaceutical products. The preservative formulations include an organic carboxylic acid present in a concentration from about 0.01 to about 30 wt./wt. % of the formulation, an alcohol present in a concentration from about 0.01 to about 60 wt./wt. % of the formulation. The formulations include an inorganic salt present in a concentration from about 0.01 to about 80 wt./wt. % of the formulation, and a chelating agent present in a concentration from about 0.01 to about 20 wt./wt. % of the formulation.
US08580858B2 Compositions for the treatment of CNS-related conditions
The invention provides compositions comprising extended release memantine in combination with immediate release donepezil to a subject. Memantine in an extended release form containing 22.5 to 30 mg memantine or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof in combination with donepezil achieves particular pharmacokinetic criteria such as change in plasma concentration of memantine over time and ratio of maximum memantine plasma concentration to mean memantine plasma concentration.
US08580856B2 Acetaminophen/ibuprofen combinations and method for their use
A pharmaceutical dosage form is provided comprising a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent and acetaminophen, and methods for their use. In one embodiment, the dosage form is comprised of ibuprofen and acetaminophen as the sole pharmaceutically effective agents, wherein the ibuprofen and acetaminophen are in a weight ratio of about 12 parts:about 88 parts.
US08580845B2 Functionalized expanded porphyrins
Disclosed are functionalized expanded porphyrins that can be used as spectrometric sensors for high-valent actinide cations. The disclosed functionalized expanded porphyrins have the advantage over unfunctionalized systems in that they can be immobilized via covalent attachment to a solid support comprising an inorganic or organic polymer or other common substrates. Substrates comprising the disclosed functionalized expanded porphyrins are also disclosed. Further, disclosed are methods of making the disclosed compounds (immobilized and free), methods of using them as sensors to detect high valent actinides, devices that comprise the disclosed compounds, and kits.
US08580842B2 Heteroaryl-substituted 1,3-dihydroindol-2-one derivatives and medicaments containing them
The present invention relates to novel 1,3-dihydroindol-2-one (oxindole) derivatives of the formula (I) in which A, R3, R4, R5, R6, and R7 are defined according to claim 1, and to medicaments containing them for the treatment of diseases. In particular, the novel oxindole derivatives can be used for the control and/or prophylaxis of various vasopressin-dependent or oxytocin-dependent diseases.
US08580837B2 Parasiticidal formulation
The present invention provides a parasiticidal formulation comprising: Fipronil, or a veterinarily acceptable derivative thereof; at least one C1-C6 alcohol co-solvent, wherein the total amount of C1-C6 alcohol is up to 8% by weight of the formulation; at least one organic solvent which is not the C1-C6 alcohol co-solvent; and at least one crystallization inhibitor, wherein the total amount of crystallization inhibitor is from 2 to 20% by weight of the formulation. The formulations of the invention have higher flash points than known parasiticidal formulations comprising Fipronil and therefore provide safer formulations for use in the home, storage, manufacture and distribution.
US08580836B2 Plant disease control composition and method of controlling plant disease
A plant disease control composition comprising a carboxamide compound represented by formula (I) whose enantiomer ratio R form/S form of the carboxamide compound is 80/20 or more has an excellent plant disease controlling activity.
US08580811B2 Androgen receptor modulator methods
Provided herein are compounds that bind to androgen receptors and/or modulate activity of androgen receptors, and to methods for making and using such compounds. Also provided are compositions including such compounds and methods for making and using such compositions.
US08580810B2 Compounds and formulations suitable for radical scavenging
The present invention relates to compositions and methods of using free radical scavengers with reduced 1O2 generation. In certain embodiments, these compositions and methods of use relate to fullerene-derived ketolactams and fullerene-derived keto lactam derivatives, fullerene derivatives, and/or fullerenes. In yet other embodiments, the invention relates to cosmetic or dermatological compositions comprising said free radical scavengers with reduced 1O2 generation.
US08580808B2 Filamin A-binding anti-inflammatory analgesic
A compound, its pharmaceutically acceptable salt, a composition containing the same and method of treatment that can provide analgesia and/or reduce inflammation are disclosed. A contemplated compound has a structure that corresponds to Formula A, wherein G, W, Q, Z, D, E, F, K, Y, d, e, f, k, n, m, and circle B and all R groups are defined within.
US08580805B2 Pyrimidine carboxamide derivatives
The invention relates to a compound of the formula wherein the substituents are as defined herein, and a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of the compound of formula (1). The compounds of formula (1) and their salts possess inflammation inhibiting properties and are therefore useful in the treatment and prevention of conditions related to inflammations such as inflammatory joint diseases. The compounds of formula (1) are also useful for the treatment of diseases where chronic inflammation is the underlying cause. This application relates to compounds of formula (1), methods for their preparation, pharmaceutical compositions comprising these compounds, and their use for the preparation of a medicament for the treatment of humans and animals.
US08580803B2 Substituted pyrrolo-aminopyrimidine compounds
The present invention relates to substituted pyrrolo-aminopyrimidine compounds and methods of synthesizing these compounds. The present invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions containing substituted pyrrolo-aminopyrimidine compounds and methods of treating cell proliferative disorders, such as cancer, by administering these compounds and pharmaceutical compositions to subjects in need thereof. The substituted pyrrolo-aminopyrimidine compounds have the following general formula:
US08580802B2 Pyrrolo[2,3-D]pyrimidines as inhibitors of Janus kinases
The present invention relates to compounds of the following structural formula: which are useful as inhibitors of protein kinases, particularly of JAK family kinases. The invention also provides pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising said compounds and methods of using the compositions in the treatment of various disease, conditions, or disorders.
US08580791B2 Antiviral 6-{2-[1-(6-methyl-3-pyridazinyl)-4-piperidinyl]ethoxy}-3-ethoxy-1,2-benzisoxazole bis-dihydrogen-phosphate salts
Novel acid addition salts of 6-{2-[1-(6-methyl-3-pyridazinyl)-4-piperidinyl]ethoxy}-3-ethoxy-1,2-benzisoxazole of following formula are disclosed, particularly a crystalline form of a bis-dihydrogenphosphate salt: Such compounds have particular advantages with regard to treatment of picornaviruses. Related pharmaceutical compositions and methods of treating a picornavirus infection are also disclosed.
US08580790B2 (Heterocycle/condensed piperidine)-(piperazinyl)-1-alkanone or (heterocycle/condensed pyrrolidine)-(piperazinyl)-1-alkanone derivatives and use thereof as p75 inhibitors
The disclosure relates to (heterocycle-fused piperidine)-(piperazinyl)-1-alkanone derivatives and (heterocycle-fused pyrrolidine)-(piperazinyl)-1-alkanone derivatives of formula (I): wherein A, W, R2 and n are as defined in the disclosure, to the method of preparation thereof and the therapeutic use thereof.
US08580775B2 Use of derivatives of sinapinic acid and compositions comprising such derivatives
The present invention relates to substances which can be used as cosmetic ingredients, especially for skin whitening and as cosmetic agents against signs of ageing skin. The present invention also relates to the use of such substances for the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of disorders related to the pigmentation of the skin. The invention furthermore relates to specific substances.
US08580774B2 Use of DHEA derivatives for enhancing physical performance
A method is disclosed for administering a DHEA derivative or a physiologically acceptable salt, ester or ether thereof for one of decreasing body weight, reducing adipose tissue, increasing endurance, as an anti-aging compound and generating production of red blood cells.
US08580771B2 Dosage form for hormonal contraception
A dosage form for hormonal contraception containing a given number of hormone-containing daily units and a given number of hormone-free daily units for daily, oral administration, where the hormone-containing daily units each contain at most the minimum effective daily amount of folic acid for women and the hormone-free daily units contain at least a multiple of this amount up to the maximum permissible amount of folic acid for women.
US08580760B2 Aptamer capable of binding to viral hemorrhagic septicemia virus
A pharmaceutical and a method for preventing and treating VHSV infection in fish with a VHSV-binding aptamer is provided. Also provided are a method for removing VHSV from an area of water and a method and kit for detecting VHSV with high sensitivity using a VHSV-binding aptamer.
US08580753B2 Modulation of telomere length in telomerase positive cells and cancer therapy
Induction of telomere shortening, G2 arrest and apoptosis in telomerase positive cancer cells using acyclic nucleoside analogs has been disclosed. In addition, methods for impairment or prevention of tumorigenic telomerase positive cells from having a chance to grow into a tumor and methods for promoting tumor regression (decrease in size of an established tumor) using acyclic nucleoside analogs has been disclosed.
US08580749B2 Peptide-coated cell localization to diseased or damaged tissues and methods related thereto
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a coated cell comprising a therapeutic cell and a plurality of targeting complexes coating the therapeutic cell and each of said targeting complexes comprising a homing molecule, a lipid moiety, and a spacer having from about 1 to about 10 amino acids and covalently linking the homing molecule to the lipid moiety and wherein the lipid moiety is non-covalently attached to the therapeutic cell. In some embodiments, the therapeutic cell is a stem cell. Embodiments of the invention are directed to methods of coating a therapeutic cell. Embodiments of the invention are directed to methods of treating diseases of the vasculature.
US08580746B2 Amide linkage cyclic natriuretic peptide constructs
Cyclic constructs which bind to a natriuretic peptide receptor and include a plurality of amino acid residues, at least one amino acid surrogate of formula I: where R, R′, Q, Y, W, Z, J, x and n are as defined in the specification, and a cyclic linkage including one or two amide bonds, pharmaceutical compositions including such cyclic constructs, and methods of treating congestive heart failure or other conditions, syndromes or diseases for which induction of anti-hypertensive, cardiovascular, renal or endocrine effects are desired.
US08580739B2 Methods of reducing myocardial injury following myocardial infarction
The present invention discloses methods of reducing injury resulting from cardiovascular disease, such as myocardial infarction, and/or promoting myocardial repair. The methods include administering an ephrin and pharmaceutical compositions including ephrins to a subject. Kits useful for accomplishing the same are also provided.
US08580732B2 Peptide therapy for hyperglycemia
Methods of modulating blood glucose levels treating hyperglycemia and related complications and conditions by administration of a VGF biomolecule to a patient in need of such treatment are provided. Methods of enhancing insulin secretion from islet beta cells in a mammal exhibiting reduced insulin secretion by administration of a therapeutically effective amount of a VGF biomolecule are also provided.
US08580730B2 Methods of treating lesional vestibular disorders by administering serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonists
The invention relates to serotonin 5-HT3 receptor antagonists or inhibitors of serotonin 5-HT3 receptor gene expression for use in the treatment of a lesional vestibular disorder.
US08580729B2 Organopolysiloxane compositions containing an active material
This invention relates to organopolysiloxane (silicone) compositions containing an active material chosen to have a desired effect in the composition, such as a perfume, sunscreen, vitamin, drug, biocide, pest repellent, catalyst or cooling agent. The active material is generally an organic material which is not silicon-containing. In particular the invention relates to such composition in which the release of the active material from the composition is inhibited or controlled. The active material is incorporated in a blend of a wax with an organopolysiloxane which has been formed by polymerization in the presence of the wax. It was found that by polymerizing an organopolysiloxane in admixture with molten wax, a stable wax silicone dispersion is obtained which allows ready incorporation of an active material such as a perfume and which releases the perfume only slowly, and may be controlled to release the perfume or other active material in desired circumstances.
US08580725B2 Aerosol product comprising a foaming concentrate composition comprising particulate materials
An aerosol product comprises a foaming concentrate composition that comprises a surfactant and particulate material having a particle size of at least about 100 μm. The foaming concentrate composition and propellant are contained in a package comprising a container and a powder valve comprising an orifice having an orifice diameter of at least about 660 μm. Preferably, a ratio of the maximum particle size of the particulate material to the orifice diameter of the orifice is less than about 0.75.
US08580721B2 Composition comprising substituted cellulosic polymer and amylase
A solid particulate laundry detergent composition including: (a) substituted cellulosic polymer including carboxymethyl substituent groups, and having a degree of substitution (DS) of at least 0.55, and having a degree of blockiness (DB) of at least 0.35, and having a DS+DB is in the range of from 1.05 to 2.00; (b) amylase with greater than 90% identity to the AA560 alpha amylase endogenous to Bacillus sp. DSM 12649 and including: (i) mutations at one or more of positions 9, 149, 182, 186, 202, 257, 295, 299, 323, 339 and 345; and (ii) mutations at four or more of positions 118, 183, 184, 195, 320 and 458; and (c) laundry detergent ingredients.
US08580713B2 Tool for diagnosis and prognosis of mature B-cell neoplasms
The present invention provides a microarray useful as a tool in the diagnosis and/or prognosis of certain types of cancers, particularly mature B-cell neoplasms. The microarray can include a plurality of genomic regions represented thereon, the genomic regions corresponding to regions wherein alterations, such as copy number alterations, at such locations correlate to specific, identifiable cancers, particularly mature B-cell neoplasms. The invention further provides methods of diagnosing and providing prognosis certain types of cancer, particularly mature B-cell neoplasms. The methods can comprise contacting a sample to a microarray according to the invention, allowing any genetic material in the sample to hybridize to the genomic regions on the microarray, analyzing the hybridizations, and correlating the hybridizations to certain cancer types, particularly mature B-cell neoplasms.
US08580708B2 Plant cryoprotectant compositions and methods of use
The present disclosure relates to cryoprotection of plants. The compositions and methods disclosed herein provide a means for protecting plants from frost or freeze damage or death due to sudden exposure to low temperature conditions. The present disclosure further relates to methods for providing cryoprotection to plants.
US08580701B2 Method of controlling Ce:Zr ratio in oxide nanoparticles
A method of making a nanoparticle catalyst composition including: a single heating of an aqueous salt solution comprising a Ce, a Zr, a rare earth dopant, and a transition metal oxide precursor to provide nanoparticles, the nanoparticles have a compositional gradient comprised of a CeZrREO2, where RE is a rare earth, and the outer portion of the nanoparticles has a Ce:Zr ratio different from the inner portion of the nanoparticles. Also disclosed is a nanoparticle-catalyst composition and articles containing the composition, as defined herein.
US08580700B2 Method for manufacturing semiconductor device
To provide a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device using a method in which a desired position is rapidly subjected to laser irradiation while switching laser irradiation patterns. With respect to an organic memory element having a structure in which an organic compound layer is interposed between a pair of conductive layers, data is written to the organic memory element by laser irradiation using a laser irradiation apparatus. Further, a laser beam emitted from a laser oscillator is split by a diffractive optical element into a plurality of laser beams, thereby irradiating a plurality of portions on the organic compound layer with laser beams by single irradiation.
US08580696B2 Systems and methods for detecting watermark formations on semiconductor wafers
Systems and methods for detecting watermark formations on semiconductor wafers are described. In one embodiment, a method comprises providing a semiconductor wafer having at least one watermark sensitive region fabricated thereon, subjecting the wafer to a wet processing step, enhancing a susceptibility to detection of at least one watermark formation created on the at least one watermark sensitive region, and detecting the at least one watermark formation. In another embodiment, a method comprises growing a first oxide layer on a surface of a semiconductor wafer, patterning a watermark sensitive structure on the first oxide layer, depositing a silicon layer over the first oxide layer, doping a region of the silicon layer over the watermark sensitive structure with an impurity to create a watermark sensitive region that is prone to retaining watermark formations as result of a wet processing step, and growing a second oxide layer over the silicon layer.
US08580694B2 Method of patterning hard mask layer for defining deep trench
A method of patterning a hard mask layer for defining a deep trench is described. A substrate formed with an isolation structure therein is provided. A hard mask layer is formed over the substrate provided. A patterned photoresist layer is formed over the hard mask layer, having therein a deep-trench opening pattern over the isolation structure. An etching gas not containing hydrogen is used to etch the hard mask layer with the patterned photoresist layer as a mask and thereby transfer the deep-trench opening pattern to the hard mask layer.
US08580684B2 Contact elements of semiconductor devices comprising a continuous transition to metal lines of a metallization layer
In sophisticated semiconductor devices, contact elements in the contact level may be formed by patterning the contact openings and filling the contact openings with the metal of the first metallization layer in a common deposition sequence. To this end, in some illustrative embodiments, a sacrificial fill material may be provided in contact openings prior to depositing the dielectric material of the first metallization layer.
US08580683B2 Apparatus and methods for molding die on wafer interposers
Methods and apparatus for performing molding on die on wafer interposers. A method includes receiving an interposer assembly having a die side and an opposite side including two or more integrated circuit dies mounted on the die side of the interposer, the interposer assembly having spaces formed on the die side of the interposer between the two or more integrated circuit dies; mounting at least one stress relief feature on the die side of the interposer assembly in one of the spaces between the two or more integrated circuit dies; and molding the integrated circuit dies using a mold compound, the mold compound surrounding the two or more integrated circuit dies and the at least one stress relief feature. An apparatus is disclosed having integrated circuits mounted on a die side of an interposer, stress relief features between the integrated circuits and mold compound over the integrated circuits.
US08580678B2 Method for fabricating semiconductor device with buried gates
A method for fabricating a semiconductor device includes forming first plugs over a substrate, forming contact holes that expose the first plugs, ion-implanting an anti-diffusion material into the first plugs, and forming second plugs filling the contact holes.
US08580676B2 Multiple layer barrier metal for device component formed in contact trench
A semiconductor device formed on a semiconductor substrate may include a component formed in a contact trench located in an active cell region. The component may comprise a barrier metal deposited on a bottom and portions of sidewalls of the contact trench and a tungsten plug deposited in a remaining portion of the contact trench. The barrier metal may comprise first and second metal layers. The first metal layer may be proximate to the sidewall and the bottom of the contact trench. The first metal layer may include a nitride. The second metal layer may be between the first metal layer and the tungsten plug and between the tungsten plug and the sidewall. The second metal layer covers portions of the sidewalls of not covered by the first metal layer.
US08580673B2 Underfill flow guide structures and method of using same
Underfill flow guide structures and methods of using the same are provided with a module. In particular the underfill flow guide structures are integrated with a substrate and are configured to prevent air entrapment from occurring during capillary underfill processes.
US08580671B2 Method of manufacturing semiconductor device and substrate processing apparatus
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device of the present invention includes a first step of forming a metal oxide film containing at least one or more kinds of elements selected from the group consisting of hafnium, yttrium, lanthanum, aluminum, zirconium, strontium, titanium, barium, tantalum, niobium, on a substrate having a metal thin film formed on the surface, at a first temperature allowing no oxidization of the metal thin film to occur, and allowing the metal oxide film to be set in an amorphous state; and a second step of forming a metal oxide film containing at least one or more kinds of elements selected from the group consisting of hafnium, yttrium, lanthanum, aluminum, zirconium, strontium, titanium, barium, tantalum, niobium on the metal oxide film formed in the first step, up to a target film thickness, at a second temperature exceeding the first temperature.
US08580670B2 Migration and plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition
A method of producing a thin film using plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition, including the steps of supplying a cation species to a substrate region when there is at most a relatively low flux of a plasma based anion species in the substrate region, and supplying the plasma based anion species to the substrate region when there is at most a relatively low flux of the cation species in the substrate region. This enables delivery of gaseous reactants to be separated in time in PECVD and/or RPECVD based film growth systems, which provides a significant reduction in the formation of dust particles for these plasma based film growth techniques.
US08580666B2 Methods of forming conductive contacts
Methods for forming memory devices and integrated circuitry, for example, DRAM (dynamic random access memory) circuitry, structures and devices resulting from such methods, and systems that incorporate the devices are provided.
US08580663B2 Formation of shallow junctions by diffusion from a dielectronic doped by cluster or molecular ion beams
A process for forming diffused region less than 20 nanometers deep with an average doping dose above 1014 cm−2 in an IC substrate, particularly LDD region in an MOS transistor, is disclosed. Dopants are implanted into a source dielectric layer using gas cluster ion beam (GCIB) implantation, molecular ion implantation or atomic ion implantation resulting in negligible damage in the IC substrate. A spike anneal or a laser anneal diffuses the implanted dopants into the IC substrate. The inventive process may also be applied to forming source and drain (S/D) regions. One source dielectric layer may be used for forming both NLDD and PLDD regions.
US08580662B2 Manufacture method of a split gate nonvolatile memory cell
A split gate nonvolatile memory cell is provided with a first diffusion region, a second diffusion region, and a channel region formed between the first and second diffusion regions, including a first channel region having a predetermined dopant concentration. The first channel region is positioned apart from the first and second diffusion regions.
US08580655B2 Processing method for bump-included device wafer
A processing method for a bump-included device wafer which includes an adhesive providing step of providing an adhesive in an annular groove of a carrier wafer so that the adhesive projects from the upper surface of an annular projection of the carrier wafer; a wafer attaching step of attaching and fixing the front side of the device wafer through the adhesive to the front side of the carrier wafer so as to accommodate bumps in a recess of the carrier wafer after performing the adhesive providing step; and a thickness reducing step of grinding or polishing the back side of the device wafer to reduce the thickness of the device wafer to a predetermined thickness after performing the wafer attaching step.
US08580653B2 Method for fabricating an isolation structure
A method of fabricating an isolation structure including forming a trench in a top surface of a substrate and partially filling the trench with a first oxide, wherein the first oxide is a pure oxide. Partially filling the trench includes forming a liner layer in the trench and forming the first oxide over the liner layer using silane and oxygen precursors at a pressure less than 10 milliTorr (mTorr) and a temperature ranging from about 500° C. to about 1000° C. The method further includes producing a solid reaction product in a top portion of the first oxide. The method further includes sublimating the solid reaction product by heating the substrate in a chamber at a temperature from 100° C. to 200° C. and removing the sublimated solid reaction product by flowing a carrier gas over the substrate. The method further includes filling the trench with a second oxide.
US08580649B2 Method for manufacturing semiconductor device
Disclosed is a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device, which provides an isolation region in which a dense silicon oxide film is formed in a trench that requires high aspect ratio. The method includes forming an isolation trench using, as an etching mask, a nitride mask film formed on a substrate, forming a liner nitride film in the isolation trench, depositing a flowable silazane compound by a CVD method such that the height of the flowable silazane compound is higher than the upper surface of the nitride mask film from the upper portion of the trench, performing heat treatment under an oxidizing atmosphere to convert the flowable silazane compound film into a silicon oxide film and simultaneously densifying therefore, and planarizing the silicon oxide film to the height of the upper surface of the nitride mask film.
US08580647B2 Inductors with through VIAS
A device using an inductor with one or more through vias, and a method of manufacture is provided. In an embodiment, an inductor is formed in one or more of the metallization layers. One or more through vias are positioned directly below the inductor. The through vias may extend through one or more dielectric layers interposed between a substrate and the inductors. Additionally, the through vias may extend completely or partially through the substrate.
US08580645B2 Memory devices and methods of forming memory devices
Disclosed is a method of forming memory devices employing halogen ion implantation and diffusion processes. In one illustrative embodiment, the method includes forming a plurality of word line structures above a semiconducting substrate, each of the word line structures comprising a gate insulation layer, performing an LDD ion implantation process to form LDD doped regions in the substrate between the word line structures, performing a halogen ion implantation process to implant atoms of halogen into the semiconducting substrate between the word line structures, and performing at least one anneal process to cause at least some of the atoms of halogen to diffuse into the gate insulation layers on adjacent word line structures.
US08580623B2 Thin film transistor substrate and display device including the same, and method for manufacturing thin film transistor substrate
A TFT (20) includes a semiconductor layer (12s1) of an oxide semiconductor, a source electrode (13sd) and a drain electrode (13dd) provided on the semiconductor layer (12s1) and separated from each other, a gate insulating film (15) covering a portion of the semiconductor layer between the source electrode (13sd) and the drain electrode (13dd), a gate electrode (18gd) provided over the semiconductor layer (12s1) with the gate insulating film (15) being interposed between the gate electrode (18gd) and the semiconductor layer (12s1). The source electrode (13sd) is integrally formed with the source line (13s1). The gate electrode (18gd) is integrally formed with the gate line (18g1). The semiconductor layer (12s1) extends below the source line (13s1). The entireties of the source line (13s1), the source electrode (13sd), and the drain electrode (13dd) are provided on the semiconductor layer (12s1).
US08580619B2 Method for producing semiconductor device
A method for producing a semiconductor device, including a semiconductor chip, for improving production efficiency and the flexibility of production design is provided. The method comprises: preparing a semiconductor chip having a first main surface on which an electroconductive member is formed; preparing a supporting structure in which, over a support configured to transmit radiation, a radiation curable pressure-sensitive adhesive layer and a first thermosetting resin layer are laminated in this order; arranging the semiconductor chips on the first thermosetting resin layer to face the first thermosetting resin layer to a second main surface of the semiconductor chips opposite to the first main surface; laminating a second thermosetting resin layer over the first thermosetting resin layer to cover the semiconductor chips; and curing the radiation curable pressure-sensitive adhesive layer by irradiating from the support side to peel the radiation curable pressure-sensitive adhesive layer from the first thermosetting resin layer.
US08580604B2 Method for preparing OLED by imprinting process
A method for preparing an OLED by an imprinting process is disclosed, which comprises the following steps: (A) providing a substrate, and a first electrode is formed thereon; (B) coating a mold with a first organic material ink; (C) pressing the mold coated with the first organic material ink on the substrate to transfer the first organic material ink onto the first electrode of the substrate, to obtain a first light-emitting array; (D) baking the substrate having the first light-emitting array formed thereon; and (E) forming a second electrode on the first light-emitting array.
US08580578B2 Optical detection of label-free biomolecular interactions using microreplicated plastic
Methods and compositions are provided for detecting biomolecular interactions. The use of labels is not required and the methods can be performed in a high-throughput manner. The invention also provides optical devices useful as narrow band filters.
US08580573B2 Highly fluorescent markers for fluids or articles
The present invention provides highly fluorescent markers, made from a reactive polymer and an isocyanate, that fluoresce in the ultraviolet or near infrared region without being visible to the human eye at low concentrations in the fluid or article being marked. The molecular weight and fluorescence emission wavelength of these highly fluorescent marker compounds can be adjusted to provide a multitude of markers with unique fluorescence signatures.
US08580572B2 Lateral flow assay test strip and method of making the same
The invention relates to a lateral flow assay test strip and a method for making the same. The strip comprises, in the flow direction, a selectively activated membrane for a test reaction and an absorption pad, which are both made of paper and may comprise an integral paper strip. The absorption pad has the paper strip embossed and/or folded to increase the strip's absorption capacity. The folded pad may have an accordion-like configuration, the strip running to-and-from, or it may have the strip rolled and then flattened to a stack of layers.
US08580569B2 Feedback control in microfluidic systems
Systems and methods for controlling fluids in microfluidic systems are generally described. In some embodiments, control of fluids involves the use of feedback from one or more processes or events taking place in the microfluidic system. For instance, a detector may detect one or more fluids at a measurement zone of a microfluidic system and one or more signals, or a pattern of signals, may be generated corresponding to the fluid(s). In some cases, the signal or pattern of signals may correspond to an intensity, a duration, a position in time relative to a second position in time or relative to another process, and/or an average time period between events. Using this data, a control system may determine whether to modulate subsequent fluid flow in the microfluidic system. In some embodiments, these and other methods can be used to conduct quality control to determine abnormalities in operation of the microfluidic system.
US08580565B2 Stem cell cultivation devices and methods
The present invention relates to a device and methods for culturing stem cells, and in particular, for culturing ocular stem cells and the use of stem cells cultured using the devices and methods of the invention for the treatment of diseases.
US08580564B2 Biomimetic cell scaffolds
This invention relates to biomimetic implants containing mammalian cells which are induced by their environment to produce gradients of diffusible factors. This may be useful in eliciting a physiological pro-angiogenic response which stimulates angiogenesis and revascularisation in tissue adjacent the implant, for example in therapeutic applications in which increased angiogenesis and/or vasculogenesis is required. This may also be useful in providing biomimetic mammalian cell niches for cell culture and differentiation.
US08580555B2 Recombinant halohydrin dehalogenase polypeptides
The present disclosure provides engineered halohydrin dehalogenase (HHDH) polypeptides having improved enzyme properties as compared to the wild-type HHDH enzyme HheC and other reference engineered HHDH polypeptides. Also provided are polynucleotides encoding the engineered HHDH enzymes, host cells capable of expressing the engineered HHDH enzymes, and methods of using the engineered HHDH enzymes to synthesize a variety of chiral compounds including chiral epoxides and chiral alcohols.
US08580550B2 Lipase powder, method for manufacture thereof, and use thereof
There is provided a lipase powder which is a granulated material comprising a lipase and at least one member selected from the group consisting of fatty acids having 8 to 12 carbon atoms, alcohol esters thereof, and a mixture thereof. This lipase powder has an increased lipase activity.
US08580547B2 Variants of PQQ-dependent glucose dehydrogenase having improved substrate specificity
The invention relates to novel PQQ-dependent soluble glucose dehydrogenases (sPQQGDH) which have an increased substrate specificity compared with the wild type, and also to methods for production and identification thereof.
US08580541B2 Lignin blockers and uses thereof
Disclosed is a method for converting cellulose in a lignocellulosic biomass. The method provides for a lignin-blocking polypeptide and/or protein treatment of high lignin solids. The treatment enhances cellulase availability in cellulose conversion and allows for the determination of optimized pretreatment conditions. Additionally, ethanol yields from a Simultaneous Saccharification and Fermentation process are improved 5-25% by treatment with a lignin-blocking polypeptide and/or protein.
US08580536B2 Compositions for saccharification of cellulosic material
The present invention relates to enzyme compositions for high temperature saccharification of cellulosic material and to uses thereof.
US08580535B2 Mass spectrometric measurement of microbial resistances
Microorganisms, particularly bacteria, are identified and characterized on the basis of a mass spectrometric measurement of their protein profiles with ionization by matrix-assisted laser desorption. In order to measure the microbial resistance to antibiotics, the protein profiles of microorganisms are measured after cultivation for a short time duration in nutrient media containing the antibiotics.
US08580524B2 Galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose-macromolecule conjugates and methods employing same
Methods and reagents are disclosed for conducting assays for IgE. Embodiments of the present reagents comprise a conjugate of a macromolecule and a compound comprising a galactose-α-1,3-galactose epitope. Embodiments of the present methods are directed to determining the presence and/or amount of an IgE specific for a galactose-α-1,3-galactose epitope in a sample. A combination is provided in a medium, which comprises the sample and a reagent for determining the presence and/or amount of an IgE specific for a galactose-α-1,3-galactose epitope in a sample wherein the reagent comprises a conjugate of a macromolecule and a compound comprising a galactose-α-1,3-galactose epitope. The combination is subjected to conditions for binding of the IgE to the reagent to form a complex. The presence and/or amount of the complex are detected and the amount of the complex is related to the presence and/or amount of IgE in the sample.
US08580515B2 Surface-modified single-walled carbon nanotubes and methods of detecting a chemical compound using same
A method for surface modification of single walled carbon nanotubes is described. In one embodiment, the method includes the steps of providing a detergent solution, adding a plurality of single walled carbon nanotubes into the detergent solution, performing a first sonication to disperse the single walled carbon nanotubes in the detergent solution, and performing a second sonication after the first sonication to make detergent encased single walled carbon nanotubes. At least one of the plurality of single walled carbon nanotubes is at least partially wrapped by one or more detergent molecules to make it a detergent encased single walled carbon nanotube. In one embodiment, the detergent comprises SDS, PSS or a combination of them. The surface modified carbon nanotubes can be used to detect a chemical compound by associating a solution of the surface modified nanotubes with the chemical compound and optically detecting a chemical property change of the solution.
US08580511B2 Two-color fluorescent reporter for alternative pre-mRNA splicing
The present invention provides reporter constructs for in vivo or in vitro monitoring of alternative pre-mRNA splicing events. The reporter constructs described herein are also particularly useful for high-throughput screening of compounds that affect alternative pre-mRNA splicing. Kits comprising the reporter constructs of the present invention find utility in a wide range of applications including, for example, basic research, drug screening, and drug design.
US08580498B2 Predictive value of nuclear excision repair genes for cancer survival
Patients who have their cancer surgically removed are at risk for recurrence, even though currently free of disease. Lung cancer patients with higher activity of a nuclear excision repair gene called ERCC1 were at a lower risk for recurrence than patients with lower activity of ERCC1. Hence, it is possible to predict which patients are at a higher risk for recurrence after resection. This information can be used to design treatment strategies for patients determined to be at a higher risk for recurrence. Additionally, patients who are lower risk for recurrence can be saved the morbidity of further treatment.
US08580496B2 Method and kit for the detection of genes associated with PIK3CA mutation and involved in PI3K/AKT pathway activation in the ER-postitive and HER2-positive subtypes with clinical implications
A method to determine the clinical outcome of breast tumor affecting a patient if treated with an antitumoral agent against breast tumor. The method includes the step of assaying a sample of a breast tumor from the patient for an expression level of selected genes, by contacting mRNA sequences from the cells of this breast tumor with a set of more than 3 nucleotide sequences related to human mutated PIK3CA.
US08580495B2 Polynucleotides for the amplification and detection of Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Polynucleotides useful for detecting Chlamydia trachomatis and/or Neisseria gonorrhoeae in a test sample, kits, a nucleic acid amplification method and detection method including the same.
US08580493B2 Screening for compounds that modulate GPR3-mediated beta-arrestin signaling and amyloid beta peptide generation
The invention relates to the field of disorders of the peripheral or central nervous system, in particular, Alzheimer's disease, and the prevention and/or treatment thereof. In particular, the invention relates to the screening of compounds that modulate GPR3 activity and/or beta-arrestin signaling in a mammalian cell and, in particular, compounds that reduce the formation of amyloid beta peptides. The invention also relates to inhibiting agents targeting beta-arrestin signaling and pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and their use in therapeutic applications of those disorders.
US08580491B2 Cancer diagnosis marker using the aberrant glycosylation of a protein
The present invention relates to a method for diagnosing cancer using information on the aberrant glycosylation of a glycoprotein. More precisely, the present invention relates to a cancer diagnosis peptide marker, which is screened by: a step of separating, using a lectin, a glycoprotein which is aberrantly glycosylated in accordance with the occurrence of cancer; and a step of selecting a hydrolyzed peptide marker derived from the aberrantly glycosylated glycoprotein by observing the quantitative changes in the separated glycoprotein. The present invention also relates to a method for diagnosing cancer using the peptide marker as an agent.
US08580489B2 Use of an endoplasmin fragment and derivatives thereof as biomarker for colorectal adenoma and/or carcinoma; method for detection and test system
The present invention is directed to a method for detecting colorectal adenoma and/or colorectal carcinoma comprising the steps: a) providing an isolated sample material which has been taken from an individual, b) determining the level of an endoplasmin fragment or a derivative thereof in said isolated sample material, c) comparing the determined level of an endoplasmin fragment or a derivative thereof with one or more reference values. The invention is further directed to a method for discriminating between colorectal adenoma and colorectal carcinoma as well as to a method for monitoring the development and/or course of colorectal adenoma and/or colorectal carcinoma and/or the treatment of colorectal adenoma and/or colorectal carcinoma. Moreover, the invention is directed to a test system and an array for use in these methods.
US08580482B2 Copolymer and top coating composition
A resin composition for forming a top coat which can be formed on a photoresist film without causing intermixing with the photoresist film, can maintain a stable film coating which is not eluted into a medium during immersion lithography, does not impair pattern profiles during dry exposure (which is not immersion lithography), and can be easily dissolved in an alkaline developer. The resin is a copolymer which includes at least one recurring unit (I) selected from the group consisting of a recurring unit having a group shown by the following formula (1), a recurring unit having a group shown by the following formula (2), and a recurring unit having a carboxyl group, and a recurring unit (II) having a sulfo group, the copolymer having a weight average molecular weight determined by gel permeation chromatography of 2,000 to 100,000.
US08580478B2 Latent acids and their use
The invention pertains to a compound generating an acid of the formula I or II, for instance corresponding sulfonium and iodonium salts, as well as corresponding sulfonyloximes wherein X is CH2 or CO; Y is O, NR4, S, O(CO), O(CO)O, O(CO)NR4, OSO2, O(CS), or O(CS)NR4; R1 is for example C1-C18alkyl, C1-C10haloalkyl, C2-C12alkenyl, C4-C30cycloalkenyl, phenyl-C1-C3-alkyl, C3-C30cycloalkyl, C3-C30cycloalkyl-C1-C18alkyl, interrupted C2-C18alkyl, interrupted C3-C30cycloalkyl, interrupted C3-C30cycloalkyl-C1-C18alkyl, interrupted C4-C30cycloalkenyl, phenyl, naphthyl, anthracyl, phenanthryl, biphenylyl, fluorenyl or heteroaryl, all unsubstituted or are substituted; or R1 is NR12R13; R2 and R3 are for example C3-C30cycloalkylene, C3-C30cycloalkyl-C1-C18alkylene, C1-C18alkylene, C1-C10haloalkylene, C2-C12alkenylene, C4-C30cycloalkenylene, phenylene, naphthylene, anthracylene, phenanthrylene, biphenylene or heteroarylene; all unsubstituted or substituted; R4 is for example C3-C30cycloalkyl, C3-C30cycloalkyl-C1-C18alkyl, C1-C18alkyl, C1-C10haloalkyl, C2-C12alkenyl, C4-C30cycloalkenyl, phenyl-C1-C3-alkyl; R12 and R13 are for example C3-C30cycloalkyl, C3-C30cycloalkyl-C1-C18alkyl, C1-C18alkyl, C1-C10haloalkyl, C2-C12alkenyl, C4-C30cycloalkenyl, phenyl-C1-C3-alkyl, Ar, (CO)R15, (CO)OR15 or SO2R15; and Ar is phenyl, biphenylyl, fluorenyl, naphthyl, anthracyl, phenanthryl or heteroaryl, all unsubstituted or substituted.
US08580474B2 Electrostatic image developing carrier, electrostatic image developer, image-forming method, developer cartridge, process cartridge, and image forming apparatus
An electrostatic image developing carrier includes a core particle and a coating layer on the core particle. The coating layer contains a resin having a crosslinked structure formed by using at least one compound selected from boric acid and boric acid derivatives.
US08580472B2 Rosin-based resin and toner containing same
Disclosed is a polyester resin comprising the polycondensation product of (a) at least one diacid, acid ester, or diester; and (b) at least one diol; wherein either (i) at least one diacid, acid ester, or diester comprises a rosin diacid, rosin acid ester, or rosin diester; or (ii) at least one diol comprises a rosin diol, and wherein at least one of the rosin diacid, rosin acid ester, rosin diester, or rosin diol is either (A) an ester of a functionalized rosin or an ester of a reduced functionalized rosin, or (B) a dimerized rosin. Also disclosed is a toner composition comprising particles which comprise the disclosed polyester resin and an optional colorant.
US08580468B2 Developer for electrostatic photography, process cartridge for image forming apparatus, image forming apparatus, and image forming method
A developer for electrostatic photography, includes: a toner containing toner particles containing a colorant and a binder resin, and an external additive having a number average particle diameter of about 100 nm or more and about 800 nm or less; and rugged particles having a rate of ruggedness represented by formula (1) of about 30% or more and about 70% or less: Rate of Ruggedness=100−(Projected area/Envelope area)×100  (1).
US08580466B1 Optically semitransmissive film, photomask blank and photomask, and method for designing optically semitransmissive film
A photomask blank includes a transparent substrate and a film containing at lease two layers formed on the transparent substrate, the two layers being a first layer with a phase difference Δθ1 and a second layer with a phase difference Δθ2. The phase difference Δθ1 is a phase difference between a light transmitted through the first layer and a light transmitted through an air distance equal to a thickness of the first layer, and the phase difference Δθ2 is a phase difference between a light transmitted through the second layer and a light transmitted through an air distance equal to a thickness of the second layer. A phase difference of the film containing at least two layers is from −30° to +30°. The first layer contains a material not to be etched during etching of the transparent substrate.
US08580462B2 Electrode catalyst material comprising carbon nano-fibers having catalyst particles on the surface and in the insides of the interior area and a fuel cell having the electrode catalyst material
The carbon fibers of this invention is characterized in that irreducible inorganic material particles in a mean primary particle size below 500 nm and reducible inorganic material particles in a mean primary particle size below 500 nm were mixed by pulverizing and then, the mixture was heat treated under the reducing atmosphere and metal particles in a mean particle size below 1 μm were obtained, and the mixed powder of the thus obtained metal particles with the irreducible inorganic material particles are included in the carbon fibers.
US08580457B2 Fuel cell stack sealed with encapsulating material and method of making the same
The invention provides a fuel cell stack including a layer of encapsulating material disposed about the separator plate, MEA, and reactant manifold, wherein the reactant manifold is bounded at least in part by the encapsulating material. The fuel cell stack also includes a first opening through the plate body to the first face from the second face, and an open channel in the second face extending from the opening toward a periphery of the plate. The invention also provides a fuel cell stack having a first face including an opening for passage of a reactant therethrough, a first reactant flow field defined thereon, and a first raised surface formed thereon substantially surrounding the opening. The first raised surface is configured and adapted to mate with a second surface on a face of an adjacent plate to create a flow obstruction for encapsulating material.
US08580456B2 Phase stable doped zirconia electrolyte compositions with low degradation
A solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) includes a cathode electrode, a solid oxide electrolyte, and an anode electrode. The electrolyte and/or electrode composition includes zirconia stabilized with (i) scandia, (ii) ceria, and (iii) at least one of yttria and ytterbia. The composition does not experience a degradation of ionic conductivity of greater than 15% after 4000 hrs at a temperature of 850° C.
US08580455B2 Crosslinked polybenzoxazines, electrolyte membrane including the same, and fuel cell employing the electrolyte membrane
Crosslinked polybenzoxazines obtained by crosslinking a monofunctional first benzoxazine monomer and a multifunctional second benzoxazine monomer with a crosslinkable compound, an electrolyte membrane including the same, a method of preparing the electrolyte membrane, a fuel cell including the electrolyte membrane having the crosslinked polybenzoxazines using the method. The crosslinked polybenzoxazines have strong acid trapping capability, improved mechanical properties, and excellent chemical stability as it does not melt in polyphosphoric acid. Even as the amount of impregnated proton carrier and the temperature are increased, mechanical and chemical stability is highly maintained, and thus the electrolyte membrane can be effectively used for fuel cells at a high temperature.
US08580453B2 Electrode-supported ceramic fuel cell containing laminar composite electrode including porous support electrode, patterned structure layer and electrolyte
A solid oxide electrochemical device having a laminar composite electrode with improved electrochemical and mechanical performance, the laminar composite electrode comprising a porous support electrode layer, a thin and patterned structure layer, and a thin and dense electrolyte layer and methods for making.
US08580451B1 Fuel cell system and method of operation that recycles water from the fuel processor raffinate of a hydrogen separator
A power generation system and a fuel processor for use within a power generation system. A fuel processor is connected to both a fuel supply line and a water supply line. The fuel processor reacts the hydrocarbon fuel with the water to produce hydrogen gas and raffinate gases. The hydrogen gas is directed into a hydrogen gas line. The raffinate gases are directed into a raffinate gas line. A fuel cell is powered using the hydrogen gas. A heat exchanger is provided that exchanges heat between the fuel supply line, the water supply line, the hydrogen gas line and the raffinate gas line. This enables heat to be recycled. In addition the raffinate gases also travel into a water recovery subsystem. The water recovery subsystem condenses water out of the raffinate gases The recovered water is returned to the system.
US08580447B2 Fuel cell system and control method for the same
An ECU estimates a dispersion among wet states of cells arranged in a lamination direction of a fuel cell. When it is determined that the dispersion among the wet states is equal to or exceed a threshold, the ECU controls a flow rate of a coolant, flow rates of gases, and pressures of gases to suppress the dispersion among the wet states below the threshold. The ECU controls the flow rate of the coolant with higher priority than the other parameters.
US08580444B2 Hydrogen discharge system for fuel cell system
The present invention provides a hydrogen discharge system for a fuel cell system, which can ensure safety of a fuel cell vehicle by optimizing the dilution of hydrogen discharged from a fuel cell during discharge and ensure silence of the vehicle by reducing noise generated during discharge.For this purpose, the present invention provides a hydrogen discharge system for a fuel cell system including a purge valve for purging hydrogen discharged from a fuel electrode of a fuel cell stack, the hydrogen discharge system including: an ejector mounted to a hydrogen purge line extending from the purge valve to introduce air from the outside; and a post-treatment system connected to an exhaust line of the ejector to remove hydrogen discharged therethrough.
US08580442B2 Fuel cell system and method of repairing electrolyte membrane thereof
A fuel cell system of the present invention includes: a fuel cell stack (1) composed by stacking a plurality of single cells, each single cell having: a membrane electrode assembly in which electrode catalyst layers (3) and gas diffusion layers (4) are disposed on both surfaces of an electrolyte membrane (2) formed of a gel electrolyte with a sol-gel phase transition temperature; and separators (5) disposed on both sides of the membrane electrode assembly; and a temperature adjusting apparatus (12) which adjusts a temperature of the electrolyte membrane in the single cell. In such a way, a defect such as a pinhole that has occurred in the electrolyte membrane (2) can be solved.
US08580437B2 Graphite particles and lithium secondary battery using the same as negative electrode
A method for forming a negative electrode for a lithium secondary battery, includes providing a paste comprising graphite particulates comprise assembled or bound graphite particles in each of which a plurality of flat-shaped particles are assembled or bound together so that the planes of orientation are not parallel to one another, and the mixture including 3 to 10 parts by weight of the organic binder per 100 parts by weight of the graphite particulates, a binder and a solvent, coating the paste on a current collector, drying the paste coated on the current collector to form a mixture of the graphite particulates and the binder, and integrating the mixture with the current collector by pressing to provide a density of the mixture of graphite particulates and organic binder of 1.5 to 1.9 g/cm3.
US08580433B2 Titanium oxide-based compound for electrode and lithium secondary battery using the same
The present invention provides a novel titanium-based composite oxide being usable as an electrode material for a lithium secondary battery and having a high capacity and an excellent cycle stability, a method for producing the same and a lithium secondary battery using the titanium-based composite oxide. Disclosed is a compound obtained by compositing titanium oxide with elements other than titanium, specifically a titanium-based composite oxide wherein the relevant chemical formula is Ti(1-x)MxOy, M is the element Nb or the element P, or a combination of these two elements in an optional ratio therebetween, x is such that 0
US08580429B2 Non-aqueous electrolyte for a lithium battery, lithium battery wherein said electrolyte is used, and hydroxy-acid derivative for use in said electrolyte
Disclosed are (1) a nonaqueous electrolytic solution for lithium battery comprising an electrolyte dissolved in a nonaqueous solvent, which contains at least one hydroxy acid derivative compound represented by the formulae (I) and (II) in an amount of from 0.01 to 10% by mass of the nonaqueous electrolytic solution, and which can improve the low-temperature and high-temperature cycle property thereof (wherein R1 represents an alkyl group having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having from 2 to 6 carbon atoms, or an alkynyl group having from 3 to 6 carbon atoms, R2 represents a sulfonyl group or a formyl group, R3 and R4 each represent a hydrogen atom or a methyl group); (2) a lithium battery comprising a positive electrode, a negative electrode and a nonaqueous electrolytic solution of an electrolyte salt dissolved in a nonaqueous solvent, wherein the nonaqueous electrolytic solution contains at least one hydroxy acid derivative compound represented by the above formulae (I) and (II) in an amount of from 0.01 to 10% by mass of the nonaqueous electrolytic solution; and (3) a hydroxy acid derivative compound represented by the following formula (III) or (IV) (wherein R6 represents an alkenyl group having from 2 to 6 carbon atoms, or an alkynyl group having from 3 to 6 carbon atoms, R7 represents a sulfonyl group or a formyl group, and R8 and R9 each represent a hydrogen atom or a methyl group).
US08580426B2 Secondary battery
A secondary battery includes an electrode assembly having a first electrode plate, a second electrode plate, and a separator disposed between the first and second electrode plates, a case accommodating the electrode assembly, and a cap assembly coupled to the case, the cap assembly including a cap plate sealing the case and having a short-circuit hole, a short-circuit plate covering the short-circuit hole of the cap plate, the short-circuit plate being spaced apart from an outer surface of the cap plate, a reversible plate adjacent the short-circuit hole, and a sealing member between the cap plate and the short-circuit plate.
US08580408B2 Apparatus for moving magnetic domain wall and memory device including magnetic field application unit
An apparatus for moving a magnetic domain wall and a memory device using a magnetic field application unit are provided. The apparatus for moving a magnetic domain wall includes a magnetic layer having a plurality of magnetic domains; current supply units that are disposed on both sides of the magnetic layer and supply current to the magnetic layer; and a magnetic field application unit that is disposed on at least one surface of the magnetic layer and applies a magnetic field to the magnetic layer.
US08580392B2 Organic light-emitting diode and uses thereof
The invention relates to an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) having an improved lifetime and improved transport of negative charge carriers. The organic light-emitting diode is based on an organic semiconductor material, in which the transport of negative charge carriers and stability with respect to reduction is achieved with triarylated Lewis acid units, in particular perarylated borane units. This leads to an improved lifetime of the emission layer which in turn increases the lifetime of the component and eliminates the need for correcting brightness during operation. Furthermore, the invention relates to organic light-emitting diodes in which the position of the emission zone in the emitter layer and the color of the emission can be influenced in a targeted manner through triarylated Lewis acids such as perarylated borane units.
US08580391B2 Material for organic electroluminescence devices and organic electroluminescence device using the material
A material for organic electroluminescence devices comprising a compound in which a heterocyclic group having nitrogen is bonded to an arylcarbazolyl group or a carbazolylalkylene group and an organic electroluminescence device comprising an anode, a cathode and an organic thin film layer comprising at least one layer and disposed between the anode and the cathode, wherein at least one layer in the organic thin film layer comprises the material for organic electroluminescence devices described above. The material can provide an organic electro-luminescence device emitting bluish light with a high purity of color. The organic electroluminescence device uses the material.
US08580388B2 Composition suitable for stretch hood, method of producing the same, and articles made therefrom
The instant invention provides a composition suitable for stretch hood, method of producing the same, and articles made therefrom. The article according to the present invention comprises a multi-layer film according to the present invention has a thickness of at least 3 mils comprising at least one inner layer and two exterior layers, wherein the inner layer comprises at least 50 weight percent polyethylene copolymer having a melt index less than 2 grams/10 minutes, a density less than or equal to 0.910 g/cm3, a total heat of fusion less than 120 Joules/gram and a heat of fusion above 115° C. of less than 5 Joules/gram, the total heat of fusion of the inner layer less than the heat of fusion of either of the two exterior layers, and wherein the multi-layer film has an elastic recovery of at least 40% when stretched to 100% elongation.
US08580381B2 Oxygen absorber for blending in a resin and method of producing the same
An oxygen absorber for blending in a resin, comprising a mixed powder containing an iron powder, a metal halide and an alkaline substance, and having a half-peak width on a plane (110) of 0.20°/2θ (Co—Kα) or less as measured by a powder X-ray diffraction method, a specific surface area of 0.5 m2/g or more, and an average particle size of 1 to 40 μm. The oxygen absorber effectively suppresses the generation of hydrogen, features excellent safety, exhibits excellent oxygen-absorbing capability and offers an advantage of high productivity due to the suppressed occurrence of coarse particles in the step of producing the oxygen absorber.
US08580378B2 Organic glass for automobile and process for producing the same
An organic glass for automobile is provided which has excellent weatherability, wear-resistance and abrasion-resistance, and which can be mass-produced by a simple and inexpensive process. The organic glass comprises a transparent resin base plate 12 and a hard coat layer 14 formed on at least one surface of the resin base plate. The hard coat layer includes an organic thin film 16 formed by vacuum deposition polymerization.
US08580373B2 Embossed decorative boards
Embossed decorative boards having first and second opposite edges with a third and a fourth adjacent edge. The board includes an upper side decorative surface an upper side embossing and a base layer. The embossing is comprised by surface structure areas of which at least four are first and second outermost surface structure areas. The first outermost surface structure area has each one end edge coinciding with the first edge of the board while the second outermost surface structure area has each one end edge coinciding with the second edge. At least two surface structures having different visual characteristics are used, wherein two adjacent outermost surface structure areas within the same board have different surface structures. The end edge of the outermost surface structure areas with the same ordinal number of the first edge and the second edge has mainly the same length while the surface structure is similar.
US08580372B2 Optical film
The present invention provides an optical film comprising a substrate having a first optical surface and a second surface and a micro structure layer on the first optical surface of the substrate, wherein the micro structure layer comprises a plurality of first light-adjusting structures selected from the group consisting of prism columnar structures, conical columnar structures, solid angle structures and orange-segment like structures and a combination thereof and a plurality of second light-adjusting structures selected from the group consisting of arc columnar structures, lens-like structures, and capsule-like structures and a combination thereof, wherein at least a portion of the second light-adjusting structures has a height greater than those of all the first light-adjusting structures. The optical film of the present invention will not suffer the damage caused on the microstructure layers while achieving a light-gathering effect and effectively reducing optical interference.
US08580371B2 Self-cleaning superhydrophobic surface
A superhydrophobic structure that may have a titanium substrate and nanoporous titanium oxide layer grown on the titanium substrate by anodization. The titanium oxide layer may have a plurality of nano-tube structures that create a microscopically rough surface on the titanium substrate. A hydrophobic coating may be deposited over the titanium oxide layer to create a superhydrophobic surface on the titanium substrate. The titanium oxide layer may provide a photocatalytic reaction with oxygen in surrounding air to oxidize organic contaminants on the superhydrophobic surface.
US08580366B2 Hose for refrigerant transport use
A hose for refrigerant transport use comprising an inner layer with superior deterioration resistance performance. The innermost layer comprised in the hose for refrigerant transport use of the present invention is formed using a polyamide resin composition comprising a polyamide and, per 100 parts by mass thereof, from 0.5 to 20 parts by mass of an acid acceptor.
US08580364B2 Cured-in-place liner material and methods and systems for manufacture
A liner tube for repairing existing pipes is provided. The liner tube is sufficient flexible to lie substantially flat under its own weight thereby defining an upper portion and a lower portion. The liner tube includes an inner layer, an outer layer disposed around the inner layer, a first intermediate layer disposed between the inner layer and the outer layer, the first intermediate layer being wrapped around the inner layer to overlap itself and define a first overlap portion in the upper portion, and a second intermediate layer disposed between the first intermediate layer and the outer layer, the second intermediate layer being wrapped around the first intermediate layer to overlap itself and define a second overlap portion in the lower portion. The first and second intermediate layers include a porous material and the inner layer includes material substantially impermeable to liquids. Systems used to manufacture the liner tube are also provided. These systems include a stringer apparatus for inserting a string into a spool of flexible tubing, an assembler apparatus for folding the layers of the liner tube and an impregnator apparatus for impregnating intermediate layers of the liner tube with resin.
US08580362B2 Silicone products and methods for making silicone products
The present invention relates to a silicone product comprising a single or double elastic material which is covered along at least one surface with an adhesive or non-adhesive silicone-gel, wherein the elastic material is woven or knitted and comprises polyamide or polyester.
US08580359B2 Bottom chassis, method of fabricating the same, and liquid crystal display including the same
Provided are a bottom chassis, a method of fabricating the same, and a liquid crystal display (LCD) including the same. The bottom chassis is fabricated using an aluminum alloy plate including, by weight, 0.5 to 1.5% manganese, 0.8 to 1.5% magnesium, 0.01 to 0.03% titanium, less than 0.02% molybdenum, and 96% or more aluminum.
US08580350B2 Corrosion resistant neutron absorbing coatings
A method of forming a corrosion resistant neutron absorbing coating comprising the steps of spray or deposition or sputtering or welding processing to form a composite material made of a spray or deposition or sputtering or welding material, and a neutron absorbing material. Also a corrosion resistant neutron absorbing coating comprising a composite material made of a spray or deposition or sputtering or welding material, and a neutron absorbing material.
US08580341B2 Method of making composite membrane
The present invention provides a composite membrane comprising a porous base membrane and a polyamide coating disposed on said porous base membrane, said polyamide coating comprising a C3-C8 cyclic carbonyl compound and a C1-C8 amide compound, said amide compound comprising at least one N—H moiety. In addition the present invention provides a method of preparing a composite membrane comprising contacting under interfacial polymerization conditions an organic solution comprising a polyacid halide with an aqueous solution comprising a polyamine, said contacting being carried out on a surface of a porous base membrane, said organic solution further comprising a C3-C8 cyclic carbonyl compound, said aqueous solution comprising a C1-C8 amide compound, said amide compound comprising at least one N—H moiety.
US08580333B2 Matrix type display device with optical material at predetermined positions and manufacturing method thereof
An object of the invention is to improve patterning accuracy while maintaining low cost, high throughput and a high degree of freedom of an optical material in a matrix type display device and a manufacturing method thereof.In order to achieve the object, a difference in height, a desired distribution of liquid repellency and affinity to liquid, or a desired potential distribution is formed by utilizing first bus lines in a passive matrix type display device or utilizing scanning lines, signal lines, common current supply lines, pixel electrodes, an interlevel insulation film, or a light shielding layer in an active matrix type display device. A liquid optical material is selectively coated at predetermined positions by utilizing the difference in height, the desired distribution of liquid repellency and affinity to liquid, or the desired potential distribution.
US08580332B2 Thin-film battery methods for complexity reduction
Thin-film battery methods for complexity reduction are described. Processing equipment arrangements suitable to support thin-film battery methods for complexity reduction are also described. Cluster tools to support thin-film battery methods for complexity reduction are also described.
US08580329B2 Dry-mill ethanol plant extraction enhancement
In a liquid stream capture process for extracting various components in a dry mill ethanol process, a converted mash is separated into sugars/carbohydrates and corn residue by rinsing the converted mash with a dilute solvent stream and, after the sugars/carbohydrates have been separated, oils and proteins are extracted from the corn residue by rinsing the corn residue with a concentrated solvent stream. The dilute solvent stream is a mixture of ethanol and water, and the concentrated solvent stream is pure ethanol.
US08580327B2 Heat stable, fat-based confections and methods of making same
New coated food products are provided. The products comprise a center food piece such as a nutmeat or cereal piece, and a coating surrounding the center food piece. The coating can be flavored with flavorings such as cheese, chocolate, or fruit. The coating comprises a substantially homogeneous mixture of a fat-based composition and a particulate material, which results in a stable coating that can tolerate higher temperatures when compared to prior art products while also having 50% or less of the fat content of prior art coatings.
US08580320B2 Cosmetic preparation and method for preparing the same
The present invention relates to the use of dedifferentiated plant cells in cosmetic preparations for protecting of stem cells against intrinsic and extrinsic stress factors, in particular for promoting proliferation of stem cells and for protecting them against apoptosis. In particular, the invention relates to the use of dedifferentiated plant cells from fruits of Malus domestica (Apple) cultivar Uttwiler Spaetlauber. Further, the invention relates to a method for cultivating of dedifferentiated plant cells, as well as to the preparation of extracts of plant cell cultures which are suitable for such applications.
US08580318B2 Natural water soluble extracts for the inhibition of alpha-1-adrenergic receptors
The present invention discloses therapeutic natural products, in particular plant extracts effective in treating and preventing urinary tract disorders, and method for obtaining said extracts. In particular, the present invention discloses a water-soluble alcoholic extract of Opuntia ficus-indica flower (NABIA extract), a component thereof (NABIA fraction) or any mixture of components thereof, which is substantially free of non water-soluble residues, and exhibits an effective alpha-1-adrenergic receptor blocking activity. Further are disclosed methods of preparing this extract and methods of inhibiting alpha-1-adrenergic receptors and/or 5-alpha-reductase, as well as of treating medical conditions associated therewith, such as urinary tract disorders.
US08580316B2 Immune stimulatory infant nutrition
A nutritional or pharmaceutical composition comprising fat, protein, carbohydrate, whey and casein is provided. The composition has a weight ratio of casein to whey between 1:1 to 1:2.4 and comprises: a) at least 3 grams arginine per 100 grams protein; b) at least 10 wt. % linoleic acid based on total fatty acids; c) at least 1 wt. % alpha linolenic acid based on total fatty acids; d) at least one long chain-polyunsaturated fatty acid in an amount exceeding 0.1 wt. % based on total fatty acids selected from docosahexaenoic acid, arachidonic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid; e) 5 to 25 wt. % of at least one polyunsaturated fatty acid based on total fatty acids; and 2 to 12 grams indigestible oligosaccharides having a degree of polymerisation of 2 to 100 per 100 gram dry weight of the composition. Methods of treatment by administering the composition are also provided.
US08580307B2 High glass transition temperature absorbable microspheres
Absorbable microspheres comprising a copolymer formed from greater than 80 to about 99 mole percent D,L-lactide, L(−)-lactide, D(+)-lactide, or meso-lactide and combinations thereof, and about 1 to less than 20 mole percent of a different second monomer selected from the group consisting of p-dioxanone and trimethylene carbonate and combinations thereof, said microspheres having a particle size ranging from about 5 to 2000 microns. Also described herein are formulations comprising such absorbable microspheres.
US08580306B2 Particles for use in a pharmaceutical composition
The invention provides a method of making a composition for inhalation which includes the step of mixing particles of additive material having a diameter of not more than 2 μm with active particles, wherein the additive material is suitable for promoting the dispersal of active particles upon aerolization of a dry, powder in a dry powder inhaler.
US08580300B2 Pharmaceutical formulation for treating the upper digestive tract
The invention relates to an effervescent tablet for preparing a mouth rinsing solution, wherein the effervescent tablet exhibits a high release rate of budesonide. A high availability of the active ingredient during use as a mouth rinsing solution on the inflamed mucosa of the upper digestive tract is thereby achieved. The advantage of the formulation according to the invention lies in the bioavailability comparable to oral forms of administration, which allows the formulation to be used safely over an extended period of time.
US08580293B2 Monolithic intravaginal rings comprising progesterone and methods of making and uses thereof
The present invention relates to monolithic intravaginal rings comprising progesterone, methods of making, and uses thereof. The intravaginal rings comprise progesterone, a polysiloxane elastomer, and a pharmaceutically acceptable hydrocarbon or glycerol esters of a fatty acid.
US08580275B2 Drug delivery product and methods
The present invention provides a particulate delivery system comprising an extracted yeast cell wall comprising beta-glucan, a payload molecule and a payload trapping molecule. The invention further provides methods of making and methods of using the particulate delivery system.
US08580273B2 TNF superfamily member light fusion proteins
The present invention refers to fusion proteins comprising a TNF superfamily (TNFSF) cytokine or a receptor binding domain thereof fused to a trimerization domain and a nucleic acid molecule encoding the fusion protein. The fusion protein is present as a trimeric complex or as an oligomer thereof and is suitable for therapeutic, diagnostic and/or research applications.
US08580270B2 Respiratory synctial virus (RSV) sequences for protein expression and vaccines
The invention provides RSV fusion (F) protein ectodomain polypeptide sequences and nucleotide sequences encoding them, as well as cells containing the invention's polypeptide and nucleotide sequences. The invention further provides VLPs that contain the invention's polypeptides, and methods for using the VLPs for protein expression and vaccine formulation. Also provided are methods for distinguishing between subjects immunized with the invention's compositions and subjects infected with RSV.
US08580266B2 Immune modulation via C-type lectin
The invention relates to the regulation of the immune system, and in particular to the finding that the CLEC9a molecule is a marker for dendritic cells which are capable of cross-presenting extracellular antigens via the MHC class I pathway. This makes them particularly suitable for generation of cytotoxic T lymphocyte responses. Materials and methods are provided both for the induction of immune responses against target antigens, and for the inhibition or suppression of undesirable immune responses in which these cells are involved.
US08580264B2 Subcutaneously administered anti-IL-6 receptor antibody
The present application discloses methods for treating an IL-6-mediated disorder such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), systemic JIA (sJIA), polyarticular course JIA (pcJIA), systemic sclerosis, or giant cell arteritis (GCA), with subcutaneously administered antibody that binds interleukin-6 receptor (anti-IL-6R antibody). In particular, it relates to identification of a fixed dose of anti-IL-6R antibody, e.g. tocilizumab, which is safe and effective for subcutaneous administration in patients with IL-6-mediated disorders. In addition, formulations and devices useful for subcutaneous administration of an anti-IL-6R antibody are disclosed.
US08580256B2 Stabilized anti-hepatitis B (HBV) antibody formulations
The present invention provides liquid formulations of antibodies or fragments thereof that specifically bind to a hepatitis B virus (HBV) antigen, which formulations exhibit stability, low to undetectable levels of aggregations, and very little to no loss of the biological activities of the antibodies or antibody fragments, even during long periods of storage. Furthermore, the invention provides methods of preventing, treating or ameliorating one or more symptoms associated with HBV infection utilizing the liquid formulations of the present invention.
US08580254B2 Anti-IGF antibodies
Antibody molecules, in particular fully human antibodies that bind to human IGF-1 and cross-react with IGF-2 such that binding of IGF-1 and IGF-2 to the IGF-1 receptor is prevented and IGF-1 receptor-mediated signaling is inhibited. The antibodies do not bind to insulin and thus do not affect the mitogenic properties of insulin that are mediated by its binding to the insulin receptors. The antibodies are useful for the treatment of hyperproliferative diseases, in particular cancer.
US08580253B2 Immunomodulating compositions and methods of use
This invention is directed to β-1-6-glucans, compositions and devices comprising the same, and methods of use thereof in modulating immune responses. The β-1-6-glucans of certain embodiments of the invention are enriched for O-acetylated groups and/or conjugated to a solid support or linked to a targeting moiety.
US08580252B2 Soluble glycosaminoglycanases and methods of preparing and using soluble glycosaminoglycanases
The invention relates to the discovery of novel soluble neutral active Hyaluronidase Glycoproteins (sHASEGPs), methods of manufacture, and their use to facilitate administration of other molecules or to alleviate glycosaminoglycan associated pathologies. Minimally active polypeptide domains of the soluble, neutral active sHASEGP domains are described that include asparagine-linked sugar moieties required for a functional neutral active hyaluronidase domain. Included are modified amino-terminal leader peptides that enhance secretion of sHASEGP. The invention further comprises sialated and pegylated form of a recombinant sHASEGP to enhance stability and serum pharmacokinetics over naturally occurring slaughterhouse enzymes. Further described are suitable formulations of a substantially purified recombinant sHASEGP glycoprotein derived from a eukaryotic cell that generate the proper glycosylation required for its optimal activity.
US08580250B2 Botulinum toxin compositions
A high potency botulinum toxin pharmaceutical composition comprising two excipients (such as albumin and sodium chloride) in a weight to weight ratio of between about 1 and about 100.
US08580240B1 Compounds and methods for reducing the occurrence of post-surgical adhesions
Compounds and methods for reducing the occurrence of a post-surgical adhesion are provided. The compounds can include acrylic acid groups and ethylene glycol groups, and can be directed to an area of damaged tissue by the incorporation of a fibrin targeting peptide. The compounds can further include a brush-like portion, capable of creating a steric barrier between a damaged tissue or organ and adjacent tissues or organs, and a targeting portion, capable of directing the compounds to a damaged tissue or organ. Methods of detecting damaged tissue and kits are also provided.
US08580239B2 Skin grafting devices and methods
The present invention provides skin grafting and devices that comprise a systematic approach to the process of skin grafting, i.e., harvesting, post-excision processing and application of donor skin and pre and post-graft treatment of the recipient site.
US08580238B2 Cosmetic compositions of reactively blended copolymers
Provided are cosmetic and personal care compositions having film-formers that are two-phase polymers with a first phase polymer that is a maleated polymer where the maleic anhydride is pendant to the polymer and the second phase polymer is a polymer with complementary reactive groups. The two-phase polymer film former provides enhanced durability benefits for cosmetics, hair care, and skin care products.
US08580237B2 Hair styling composition
A hair styling composition comprising: i) an amino acid comprising an urea moiety in its side chain; ii) a solvent for component i).
US08580232B2 Compositions for enhancing effects of other oral care compositions
An enhancing composition comprising a solvent and a base compound creates an alkaline environment for activating peroxide whiteners and accelerating the formation of free radicals from the peroxide to effect the oxidation of organic molecules causing staining of the dentition. In one embodiment, potassium hydroxide is dissolved in water to form a strongly alkaline liquid. A surfactant may also be included to clean the surfaces of the user's teeth in advance of application of the whitening composition. A peroxide may be added to the enhancing composition to provide a tooth whitening. Other additives for taste, texture, viscosity, and other oral care or oral hygiene purposes may also be included in the enhancing composition. The enhancing composition may be used for advance application to the dentition before a whitening compound. In addition, a rinse may be used after the whitening composition to neutralize the alkaline environment.
US08580214B2 Emission control system
Methods of treating mercury contaminated gas comprising: introducing a hydrogen halide selected from HBr and HI into a mercury contaminated gas stream containing a quantity of particulate matter at an introduction rate sufficient to create a concentration of at least 0.1 ppmvd; wherein greater than 50% of all particulate matter in the mercury contaminated gas stream is a native particulate matter; contacting a quantity of active bromine with the native particulate matter; creating a doped particulate matter; coating a filtration media with the doped particulate matter; and passing a portion of the mercury contaminated gas stream through the doped particulate matter on the filtration media and other related methods are disclosed herein.
US08580212B2 Process for preparing trichloroammineplatinate salt and the products obtained therein
The present invention relates to a process for preparing a trichloroammineplatinate salt by reacting a tetrachloroplatinate salt in aqueous solution in the presence of ammonium chloride and an alkali chloride with one or more carbonate salts selected from the group consisting of potassium, sodium and ammonium carbonate while keeping the pH value below 7 during the reaction; the product obtained therein and a use thereof.
US08580203B2 Fluidized bed reactor
A fluidized bed reactor is disclosed. The fluidized bed reactor includes a head; a first body part connected with the head, located under the head, the first body part having a first reaction pipe provided therein; a second body part connected with the first body part, located under the first body part, the second body part having a second reaction pipe provided therein; and a bottom part connected with the second body part, located under the second body part, the bottom part having a flowing-gas supply nozzle, a reaction gas supply nozzle, a heater and an electrode assembled thereto.
US08580194B2 Device for optoelectronically characterizing samples
Device (1) for optoelectronically characterizing samples by means of electrochemiluminescence (ECL), in which an electric voltage applied across a counter electrode (6) and a working electrode (2) on which the sample spots are disposed excites the sample to luminescence and a reading of the luminescence is taken using an optoelectronic component, characterized in that the optoelectronic component comprises an image detection component (4) with a photoactive layer (10) made from organic semiconductors between two electrode layers (11,14).
US08580191B2 Brass alloys having superior stress corrosion resistance and manufacturing method thereof
The present invention relates to a brass alloy having superior stress corrosion comprising: 59.0-64.0 wt % Cu, 0.6-1.2 wt % Fe, 0.6-1.0 wt % Mn, 0.4-1.0 wt % Bi, 0.6-1.4 wt % Sn, at least one element selected from Al, Cr and B, the balance being Zn and unavoidable impurities, wherein the content of Al is 0.1-0.8 wt %, the content of Cr is 0.01-0.1 wt %, the content of B is 0.001-0.02 wt %. The alloy according to the present invention does not contain toxic elements such as lead and antimony, has superior corrosion resistance and good cuttingability and is suitable for the accessories in the potable water supply systems produced by casting, forging and extruding.
US08580186B2 Flow control apparatus for molten metal
Exemplary embodiments of the invention relate to a flow control apparatus for control of molten metal flow through a trough. The apparatus includes a flow control element (e.g. a movable dam or flow restrictor) movable between an operating position and an inactive position. A guide element provides an elongated track having a first part extending generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the flow control element. One or more track followers are retained by the guide element and are movable along the track. An elongated arm is attached at one end to the flow control element and to the track follower at an opposite end. An actuator operably connects to the track follower to move the track follower along the track. The track causes the flow control element to move away from the operating position with a straight (non-pivoting) motion, but preferably causes the flow control element to pivot as it approaches the inactive position. The flow control apparatus may be combined with a connector unit for connecting sections of a metal-conveying trough or the like, or may be used directly with such trough or trough sections.
US08580183B2 Collection tubes apparatus, systems, and methods
Methods of producing collection tubes are presented. The methods include providing a separator substance that can rapidly polymerize in a short time to a desired hardness and disposing the separator substance within the lumen of the tube. The separator substance is formulated to have a density between an average density of a serum fraction of whole blood and a cell-containing fraction of whole blood, and to be flowable with whole blood. Upon centrifugation of a tube having blood, the separator substance forms a barrier between the whole blood fractions. The barrier rapidly hardens forming a solid barrier when triggered by a suitable energy source.
US08580175B2 Continuous curing and post-curing method
A method of continuous curing and post-curing of a plurality of extruded strands is provided. A plurality of extruded strands is wrapped through a plurality of spindle units rotatably connected to a rigid frame structure. A plurality of dual spindles are provided in a plurality of upper and lower spindle units, wherein each dual spindle comprises a free spinning roller and a driven roller. A chamber that comprises a dual function chamber configured for heating and cooling is supported on the rigid frame structure. The plurality of extruded strands is continuously transferred between the upper spindle units and the lower spindle units such that the plurality of extruded strands runs in a vertical fashion that continuously alternates between the lower spindle units and the upper spindle units. Each of the plurality of strands is transferred independently of each other and continuously passed through the chamber for continuous curing and post-curing.
US08580174B2 Method for texturing polymeric films and articles comprising the same
Disclosed herein is a method comprising deforming an organic polymer composition at a temperature below a glass transition temperature of an organic polymer in the organic polymer composition; the deforming being conducted by an application of a shear force, an elongational force, a compressive force, or a combination comprising at least one of the foregoing forces; the forces being applied to the organic polymer composition as it is disposed between a first roll that comprises a rubber surface and a second roll that comprises a textured metal surface; the deforming producing a textured film having a ratio of texturing of about 0.5 to about 3; the textured film having a thickness of about 5 to about 75 micrometers and an average roughness of about 0.3 to about 6 micrometers on opposing surfaces of the film.
US08580161B2 Fluidic devices comprising photocontrollable units
Photochromic materials that are useful for a variety of applications, including for making various unit functions of fluidic devices, particularly microfluidic devices, such as microchannels, valves and gates, using spiropyran materials, such as a polymeric composition comprising a spiropyran. In certain disclosed embodiments the spiropyran is admixed with a polymeric material. For example, the spiropyran may be intercalated into a polyalkylene or polyalkylene phthalate. The spiropyran also may be polymerized with at least one additional monomer to form a heteropolymer, such as by polymerization with styrene, styrene derivatives, acrylate and acrylate derivatives. The spiropyran compositions can be used to make, for example, a photoactuatable valve, a fluidic channel, etc. The valve may be associated with a microchannel, including photochromic microchannel. In certain disclosed embodiments, the valve, at least one microchannel, or both, are re-patternable by light exposure. Embodiments of a method for using a photochromic material in a microfluidic device also are disclosed. One disclosed embodiment concerns providing a microfluidic device comprising at least one re-patternable microchannel defined by a spiropyran photochromic material, at least one photoactuatable valve comprising the same or a different spiropyran photochromic material, or both. Spiropyran photochromic material is serially exposed to light of different wavelengths to move a fluid, to actuate a gate or valve, or both.
US08580157B2 Sulfide and photoelectric element
The sulfide has the following composition, and the photoelectric element uses the sulfide. (1) The sulfide contains Cu, Zn, and Sn as a principal component. (2) When x is a ratio of Cu/(Zn+Sn), y is a ratio of Zn/Sn (x and y being atomic ratios), and the composition of the sulfide is represented by the (x, y) coordinates, with the points A=(0.78, 1.32), B=(0.86, 1.32), C=(0.86, 1.28), D=(0.90, 1.23), E=(0.90, 1.18), and F=(0.78, 1.28), the composition (x, y) of the sulfide is on any one of respective straight lines connecting the points A→B→C→D→E→F→A in that order, or within an area enclosed by the respective straight lines.
US08580152B2 Methods for gasification of carbonaceous materials
The present disclosure is generally directed to process of gasification of carbonaceous materials to produce synthesis gas or syngas. The present disclosure provides improved methods of gasification comprising adding a molecular oxygen-containing gas and optionally adding water into said gasifier. This disclosure is also directed to process of production of one or more alcohols from said syngas via fermentation or digestion in the presence of at least one microorganism.
US08580136B2 Etching solution composition for metal thin film consisting primarily of copper
The problem of the present invention is to provide an etching solution composition that can etch with high accuracy a metal-laminated film pattern comprising thin films of copper and a copper alloy, can form an excellent pattern shape, and has practically excellent and stable characteristics with long solution life, and to provide an etching method using such etching solution composition. The present invention relates to an etching method for etching a metal-laminated film having a layer consisting of copper and a layer consisting of a copper alloy containing copper, using an etching solution composition comprising phosphoric acid, nitric acid, acetic acid and water, as well as to said etching solution composition.
US08580135B2 Die and method of manufacturing same
A mold of the present invention includes: a base 12 made of glass or plastic; an inorganic underlayer 14 provided on a surface of the base 12; a buffer layer 16 provided on the inorganic underlayer 14, the buffer layer 16 containing aluminum; an aluminum layer 18a provided on a surface of the buffer layer 16; and a porous alumina layer 20 provided on a surface of the aluminum layer 18a. The porous alumina layer 20 has a plurality of recessed portions 22 whose two-dimensional size viewed in a direction normal to the surface is not less than 10 nm and less than 500 nm. The mold of the present invention has excellent adhesion between the aluminum layer and the base.
US08580134B2 Nanotextured cobalt-chromium alloy articles having high wettability and method of producing same
The present invention relates to articles comprising a cobalt-chromium alloy and bearing a surface oxide layer that has a thickness of 20 to 40 Å, is enriched in chromium relative to said article, and includes a plurality of indentions that, independently, have a diameter of from about 40 to about 500 nm. Such articles can be suitable for implantation in a mammal.
US08580120B2 Reduction in flushing volume in an adsorptive separation system
A process for separating a product from a multicomponent feedstream to an adsorption apparatus or system is described. The apparatus or system may comprise a moving-bed or a simulated moving-bed adsorption means. The product comprises at least one organic compound, such as an aryl compound with alkyl substitutes. In embodiments the conduits used to supply the feedstream to the apparatus or system are flushed with media of multiple grades. The improvement is a more efficient use of the desorbent. In embodiments the process achieves improvements in one or more of efficiency of adsorption separation, capacity of adsorption apparatus systems, and purity of product attainable by adsorption process.
US08580116B2 Near-critical fluid extraction process
A process for fractionating the constituents of a solution obtained by extracting plant or animal material with an aqueous-organic solvent where the aqueous-organic solvent is a mixture of water and a water-miscible organic solvent, generally including the steps of contacting the solution with a near-critical fluid to produce a raffinate phase containing high polarity constituents and water, and a near-critical fluid phase containing low to medium polarity constituents, separating the near-critical fluid phase from the raffinate phase, and recovering the low to medium polarity constituents from the near-critical fluid phase and the high polarity constituents from the raffinate phase.
US08580110B2 Blood treatment apparatus
A proposed blood treatment apparatus includes: a blood treatment unit, a pair of fluid pumps and a pair blood pumps. The blood treatment unit is configured to receive untreated blood and fresh blood treatment fluid, and emit treated blood and used blood treatment fluid. The fluid pumps are configured to pass blood treatment fluid through the blood treatment unit. The blood pumps are configured to extract untreated blood from a blood source, pass extracted blood through the blood treatment unit and deliver treated blood to a target vessel. Additionally, the fluid pumps are configured to control the operation of the blood pumps via the blood treatment fluid. Moreover, a flow control device is configured to control a trans-membrane flow between the blood side and the a fluid side of the blood treatment unit. Hence, for instance ultrafiltration can be adjusted to a desired level in a very straightforward manner.
US08580107B2 Process for removing sulfur from vacuum gas oil
A process for removing a sulfur compound from a vacuum gas oil feed includes contacting the vacuum gas oil feed comprising the sulfur compound with a VGO-immiscible ionic liquid to produce a vacuum gas oil and VGO-immiscible ionic liquid mixture, and separating the mixture to produce a vacuum gas oil effluent having a reduced sulfur content relative to the vacuum gas oil feed.
US08580101B2 Outdoor-suitable antique copper color aluminum material and process
A copper-substitute aluminum material made from a copper and cobalt anodizing process. The process includes the steps of: anodizing the aluminum material by submersing it in a basic sulfuric acid to build an anodic layer producing anodized aluminum material; combining copper and cobalt salts together in one bath; lowering the pH of the bath to between about 1.0 and about 3.0; coloring the anodized aluminum material electrolytically by submersing the anodized aluminum material in the bath of copper and cobalt salts; and applying an electrical current to the bath plating the copper and cobalt salts into the anodized aluminum material.
US08580091B2 Multi-layer mixed metal oxide electrode and method for making same
A composition and method of manufacture of electrodes having controlled electrochemical activity to allow the electrodes to be designed for a variety of electro-oxidation processes. The electrodes are comprised of a compact coating deposited onto a conductive substrate, the coating being formed as multiple layers of a mixture of one or more platinum group metal oxides and one or more valve metal oxides. The formation of multiple layers allows the concentrations of platinum group metal and valve metal to be varied for each layer as desired for an application. For example, an electrode structure can be manufactured for use as an anode in electroplating processes, such that the oxidation of the organic additives in the electrolyte is markedly inhibited. Another electrode can be manufactured to operate at high anodic potentials in aqueous electrolytes to generate strong oxidants, e.g., hydrogen peroxide or ozone.
US08580089B2 System for the superposition of alternating current in electrolysis processes
A system is submitted here that permits superimposing an alternating current in the process of electrolytic refining of metals based on the use of power semiconductors without requiring an external source and which minimizes the utilization of passive elements, achieving a high efficiency solution applicable to high power industrial processes. The invention consists of the division of the cells involved in the metals electrolysis process in two groups of cells (3a) and 3b, both comprising a similar number of anode-cathode pairings, and with both groups linked by a common point for electrical connection (6), and interconnected by means of a bidirectional power converter (7). Said power converter (7) is connected to the common point for electrical connection 6 of the groups of cells (3a, 3b) and to the other two connection points of each group of cells, so that its operation permits transferring power from one group to the other. This, the adequate operation of the bidirectional power converter permits superimposing an alternating current of variable frequency and breadth between the groups of cells, of an average value of zero, taking advantage of the storage (charge) and power supply (discharge) characteristics of the cells utilized in the electrolytic processing of metals.
US08580079B2 Electrode carrier assemblies
In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electrode carrier assembly is provided including an electrode carrying annulus and a plurality of electrode mounting members. The electrode carrying annulus includes an electrode containment sidewall that forms an inner or outer radius of the electrode carrying annulus. The electrode carrying annulus further includes a plurality of radial sidewall projections that project radially away from the electrode containment sidewall. The radial sidewall projections each include an upward-facing tapered spacer including an upward-facing micro-mesa. The electrode mounting members each include a downward-facing tapered spacer including a downward-facing micro-mesa. The electrode mounting members are rotatably engaged with the electrode carrying annulus, and are configured to rotate between a free position and a bracketed position.
US08580078B2 Bevel etcher with vacuum chuck
A bevel etcher incorporating a vacuum chuck used for cleaning the bevel edge and for reducing the bending curvature of a semiconductor substrate. The bevel etcher includes a vacuum chuck and a plasma generation unit which energizes process gas into a plasma state. The vacuum chuck includes a chuck body and a support ring. The top surface of the chuck body and inner periphery of the support ring form a vacuum region enclosed by the bottom surface of a substrate mounted on the support ring. A vacuum pump evacuates the vacuum region during operation. The vacuum chuck is operative to hold the substrate in place by the pressure difference between the top and bottom surfaces of the substrate. The pressure difference also generates a bending force to reduce the bending curvature of the substrate.
US08580072B2 Process for producing a device for the intake or manipulation of a liquid
A device for the intake or manipulation of a fluid, in particular, a liquid, and a method for the production of a device of this type in which a flat, non-preformed covering film is laminated onto a carrier, a three-dimensionally shaped or convex chamber wall being formed solely by means of the laminating process. The chamber wall which forms a boundary of a chamber for the fluid is partially deformable. The device is simple to produce and can be used universally.
US08580069B2 Plastic bonding method
To provide a method of bonding two materials directly with each other, at least one of which is made of a plastic material, which method is applicable to bonding two materials, with no need to use any bonding agent and without allowing the materials to be exposed to high temperature and/or high pressures. In this method in which a first member made of a plastic material and a second member are bonded together, one surface of the first member to be bonded with the second member is irradiated with energy rays having a quantity of energies not lower than 4 eV, followed by directly bonding the first and second members together without any bonding agent being used.
US08580063B2 Method for producing endoscope flexible tube
A method for producing an endoscope flexible tube comprising the steps of: preparing a flexible tube assembly including a spiral tube formed by spirally winding a metal strip and a cylindrical mesh sleeve, covering the spiral tube, formed by knitting metal wires; covering the flexible tube assembly with an outer coat from one end toward the other end of the flexible tube assembly by using an extrusion molding machine wherein the outer coat has a lower layer formed of a thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer and an upper layer formed of a thermoplastic polyester elastomer and the total thickness of the upper layer and the lower layer is made constant; and annealing the covered flexible tube assembly at a temperature in the vicinity of the softening point of the layer lower in softening point of the upper layer and the lower layer after the step of covering the flexible tube assembly with the outer coat, wherein in the step of covering with the outer coat, the melt viscosity ratio (thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer/thermoplastic polyester elastomer; with reference to the exit temperature of the extrusion molding machine) between the thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer and the thermoplastic polyester elastomer is set to fall within a range from 1 to 35, and the thickness ratio between the upper layer and the lower layer is gradually varied in such a way that one of the upper layer and the lower layer has the maximum thickness at the one end and the one of the upper layer and the lower layer has the minimum thickness at the other end.
US08580053B2 Ta sputtering target and method for producing the same
A method for producing a Ta sputtering target including the following steps: (a) a step of forging a Ta ingot, comprising subjecting the Ta ingot to a forging pattern over at least 3 times, wherein each forging pattern is “a cold forging step comprising stamp-forging and upset-forging operations alternatively repeated over at least 3 times; (b) an in-process vacuum heat-treating step carried out between every successive two forging patterns to thus prepare a Ta billet; (c) a step of rolling the Ta billet to obtain a rolled plate; and (d) a step of vacuum heat-treating the rolled plate to obtain a Ta sputtering target. A sputtering target produced by the above method.
US08580052B2 Method for the heat treatment of castings using an air quench and system for implementing the method
The invention relates according to a first aspect to a method for the heat treatment of a batch of castings, in which an air quench is applied to the castings of the batch that are arranged in a single layer. The invention also extends to a system for the heat treatment of a batch of castings that includes a ventilation system in order to cause a flow of cooling air, characterized in that it includes means for placing the castings of the batch in a single layer and means for bringing the single layer of castings beneath the ventilation system so as to apply an air quench to the single layer comprising the castings of the batch.
US08580051B2 Method of processing steel and steel article
A method of processing steel includes carburizing a martensitic stainless steel work piece to produce a carburized case by utilizing in combination, (i) a composition of the martensitic stainless steel work piece, (ii) a preselected carbon concentration in the carburized case, and (iii) a preselected grain size of the martensitic stainless steel work piece such that the carburized case predominately forms carbides of composition M6C, M2C, M23C6 or combinations thereof. The martensitic stainless steel work piece is then heated to substantially solution the metal carbides. The work piece is then quenched at a cooling rate that is sufficient to avoid substantial precipitation of any carbides during cool down to the martensite start temperature, then given a low temperature temper. In so doing, the carburized case hardened martensitic stainless steel will have balanced mechanical, tribological and corrosion resistance properties for high performance bearing and gear components.
US08580034B2 Low-temperature dielectric formation for devices with strained germanium-containing channels
A method of forming a semiconductor device includes providing a substrate in a vacuum processing tool, the substrate having a strained Ge-containing layer on the substrate and a Si layer on the strained Ge-containing layer, maintaining the substrate at a temperature less than 700° C., and generating a soft plasma in the vacuum processing tool. The Si layer is exposed to the soft plasma to form a Si-containing dielectric layer while minimizing oxidation and strain relaxation in the underlying strained Ge-containing layer. A semiconductor device containing a substrate, a strained Ge-containing layer on the substrate, and an Si-containing dielectric layer formed on the strained Ge-containing layer is provided. The semiconductor device can further contain a gate electrode layer on the Si-containing dielectric layer or a high-k layer on the Si-containing dielectric layer and a gate electrode layer on the high-k layer.
US08580033B2 Method for producing a single crystal of semiconductor material
A single crystal of semiconductor material is produced by a method of melting semiconductor material granules by means of a first induction heating coil on a dish with a run-off tube consisting of the semiconductor material, forming a melt of molten granules which extends from the run-off tube in the form of a melt neck and a melt waist to a phase boundary, delivering heat to the melt by means of a second induction heating coil which has an opening through which the melt neck passes, crystallizing the melt at the phase boundary, and delivering a cooling gas to the run-off tube and to the melt neck in order to control the axial position of an interface between the run-off tube and the melt neck.
US08580027B1 Sprayed on superoleophobic surface formulations
Fluoroalkylsilane-treated metal oxide particles and a fluoroelastomeric binder are dispersed in a fluorinated solvent with a low boiling point and applied to a substrate via spray deposition. The spray deposition process rapidly produces a conformal coating that features low surface energy and surface topography with a large range of characteristic length scales and re-entrant curvature, thereby imparting superoleophobicity. The degree of superoleophobicity is readily adjusted by means of altering the ratio of particles to binder. The choice of particle and binder result in coatings with thermal stability for thousands of hours at temperatures up to 200 degrees Celsius as well as desirable mechanical characteristics.
US08580020B2 Tank with containment chamber and gas scrubber
The invention relates to a fluid storage tank having an interior volume and a floor and having an internal spill containment chamber comprising a vent gas scrubbing apparatus or scrubber. The chamber may be defined by a containment wall which completely separates the chamber from the tank interior volume. The containment wall may comprise an exterior portion which extends beyond the tank wall. The scrubber is disposed within the chamber and comprises a gas inlet passing through the containment wall into the tank interior volume, a gas outlet for venting scrubbed gases, and a gas scrubbing chemical storage and circulation system.
US08580019B2 Apparatus and method of optimized acid gas and toxic metal control in gasifier produced gases
An apparatus and method is presented for removing acid gases and other trace contaminants to very low levels in combustible gases generated from thermal gasification of biomass or refuse-derived fuels. The invention includes optimization of geometric variables, temperature and pressure set points via use of a pressurized bubbling fluidized bed reactor to convert granular raw (non-activated) sorbents and auto-generated biochar sorbents) into activated, highly dispersed, and ideally sized particles for removing acid gases and toxic metals. The system can incorporate a generated gas cooler, a gas-sorbent contact chamber or zone, and a novel filter (with or without additional gas cooling and residence time stages).
US08580003B2 Exhaust gas purifying device
Provided is an exhaust gas purifying device structured such that a gas sensor or the like can be easily arranged while an installation length of gas purifying filters can be formed compact. The exhaust gas purifying device includes the gas purifying filters for purifying an exhaust gas discharged from an engine, inner cases internally provided with the gas purifying filters, and outer cases internally provided with the inner cases. Provided are sets of the gas purifying filters, the inner cases and the outer cases, and flange bodies connecting plural sets of outer cases are offset with respect to a connection boundary position of plural sets of gas purifying filters.
US08580002B2 Multistage separation system
A “bolt on” static separator is disclosed for use in conjunction with a rotating separator to handle higher liquid volumes that are not able to be effectively separated by the rotating separator alone. The static separator may be positioned upstream of the rotating separator, generally right in front of the rotating separator, i.e., immediately ahead of the inlet to the rotating separator and generally attached directly to the front end of the rotary separator. The static separator may include a significant change in flow path direction that is sufficient to cause coarse fluid separation. The output of the static separator is in communication with the input of the rotating separator. Additionally, the drain of the static separator is in communication with the drain of the rotating separator and is at the same pressure.
US08580000B2 Indirect heat-drying apparatus, indirect heat-drying method of drying substance to be dried, and method and apparatus for producing solid fuel
The present invention provides an indirect heat-drying apparatus that is resistant to adhesion of the substance to be dried on heating pipes and gives a product having a desired and stabilized liquid content.The present invention relates to an indirect heat-drying apparatus, comprising two indirect-heating rotary dryers, i.e., the first and second indirect-heating rotary dryers that are arranged in series so that the dried substance from the first indirect-heating rotary dryer is supplied to and dried in the second indirect-heating rotary dryer as the substance to be dried; and a carrier gas-supplying means of supplying the carrier gas co-currently in the first indirect-heating rotary dryer and counter-currently in the second indirect-heating rotary dryer, with respect to the flow direction from the substance to be dried.
US08579994B2 Method for producing a solid-state cell and a solid-state cell
A method for producing a solid-state cell which makes it possible to produce a highly reliable solid-state cell that suppresses a decrease in the thickness of the solid electrolyte layer and a short circuit between the positive and negative electrodes, and which is highly flexible in the size and shape of the solid electrolyte layer and electrodes. The method comprising: a structure preparing step for preparing a first structure, a second structure, or a third structure, a solid electrolyte material powder layer, and a positive electrode material powder layer are stacked, in this sequence; an insulating member disposing step for disposing a heat-resistant insulating member which is in contact with an outer periphery of the structure in the stacking direction of the structure and surrounds the outer periphery; and a heat-compressing step for heat-compressing the structure and heat-resistant insulating member, in the stacking direction of the structure.
US08579991B2 Hand prosthesis and force transmission device
A hand prosthesis includes a chassis to which at least one finger prosthesis is articulated. The finger prosthesis is swivelable about at least one swiveling axis by a drive that is connected to the finger prosthesis via a force transmission device. The force transmission device does not yield to tension and is flexible.
US08579981B2 Expanding interbody implant and articulating inserter and method
A device to space vertebral members with first and second members that may have at least one ramped section. The first and second members may be positioned in a vertically overlapping arrangement with interior sides of the members facing together. The device may be positionable between a first orientation with the ramped section of the first member positioned away from the ramped section of the second member, and a second orientation with the ramped section of the first member positioned against the ramped section of the second member. The device may include a greater height measured between the exterior sides in the second orientation than in the first orientation.
US08579974B2 Method for drilling angled osteal tunnels
Methods for drilling an angled osteal tunnel into a bone by drilling or punching at least one first tunnel portion into the bone from a first surface location on the bone, the at least one first tunnel portion having an interior end within the bone and then drilling or punching at least one second tunnel portion into the bone from a second surface location on the bone using a guide component to guide a drill to the interior end of the first tunnel portion, whereby the at least one first tunnel portion and the at least one second tunnel portion intersect and connect at an angle, resulting in an angled osteal tunnel.
US08579965B2 Methods of implanting an implantation device
The implant implantation unit (2), at a determined position in the tubular element (51) with a wall comprising a cavity (50), is pushed there by a catheter (60) and the unit comprises deformable feelers (31) to, under the control of remote activation elements (42), change from a stowed form to a deployed functional form, to detect the cavity (50) and position itself there with reference to the position of the cavity.
US08579963B2 Transcatheter prosthetic heart valve delivery device with stability tube and method
A device for percutaneous delivery of a stented prosthetic heart valve. The device includes a sheath, a handle, and an outer stability tube. The sheath includes a distal capsule and a proximal shaft. The handle has a housing maintaining an actuator mechanism that is coupled to the shaft. The actuator mechanism is configured to selectively move the shaft, and thus the capsule, relative to the housing. The stability tube is coupled to the housing and is coaxially received over the shaft such that the shaft is slidable relative to the stability tube. In a delivery state, the capsule encompasses the prosthetic valve. In a deployed state, the capsule is withdrawn from the prosthetic valve. The shaft slides relative to the stability tube in transitioning from the loaded state to the deployed state. When used with an introducer device, the stability tube frictionally isolates the sheath.
US08579955B2 Anti-arrhythmia devices and methods of use
An apparatus and method of use are disclosed for treating, preventing and terminating arrhythmias. In particular, the apparatus is implantable within or on various tissues and structures and is used to prevent or block conduction of aberrant impulses. A variety of methods of the present invention may be used to attack arrhythmias by short-circuiting impulses, inducing fibrosis, ablating tissue or inducing inflammation. In addition, the device and methods may also be used to treat aneurysms. The device may also be used to treat hypertension, and to function as a blood pressure regulator.
US08579953B1 Devices and methods for therapeutic heat treatment
Devices and methods for providing therapeutic heating are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the system includes a device body configured to provide heat to a portion of skin. The device body also includes a low-level heating region and a high-level heating area. The low-level heating region provides a continuous amount of heat at a first temperature, and the high-level heating area provides an intermittent amount of heat at a second temperature greater than the first temperature.
US08579946B2 Anatomical distal radius fracture fixation plate
A fixation plate includes a set of threaded peg holes adapted to individually receive fixation pegs therethrough and non-threaded alignment holes having a relatively smaller diameter than the peg holes and preferably sized to closely receive a K-wire. The alignment holes are located between the peg holes. One peg hole is configured for aligning the plate during an osteotomy procedure, while other peg holes are configured for use after fracture reduction and receive K-wires to temporarily secure the plate to the bone and determine whether pegs inserted through adjacent respective peg holes will be properly located before drilling relatively larger holes for such pegs.
US08579937B2 Tool member cover and cover deployment device
A surgical instrument including a tool member cover and a cover deployment device are disclosed. The cover is supported adjacent to or on the tool assembly of the surgical instrument and is movable from a first position in which the tool assembly is uncovered to a second position in which the tool assembly is at least partially encompassed by the cover. The deployment device is provided for moving the cover from the first position to the second position.
US08579935B2 Tissue fasteners and related deployment systems and methods
Surgical tissue fasteners and related deployment systems and methods are disclosed. A tissue fastener used to join multiple tissue layers includes a first member, a second member, and a connecting member connecting the first and second members. In some embodiments, the first and second members are configured to expand from a delivered state to a deployed state in which the fastener secures the tissue layers together. In other tissue fastener embodiments the connecting member has an elastic compressive spring force for applying a substantially constant force on the tissue layers for adjusting a length of the connecting member between the first and second members.
US08579933B2 Patent foramen ovale closure device
A device for deploying a mechanical closure device for closing a passageway in a body, for example a patent foramen ovale (PFO) in a heart. The deployment device has a first tubular structure having proximal and distal ends. A second tubular structure is substantially coaxial to and slideably engaged within the first tubular structure. The second tubular structure has a first substantially linear shape when constrained within the first tubular structure, and a second curvilinear shape when telescopically extended from the distal end of the first tubular structure. A third tubular structure is substantially coaxial to and slideably engaged within the second tubular structure. The third tubular structure is configured to provide sufficient rigidity to push the mechanical closure device from the distal end of the second tubular structure, and provide sufficient flexibility to assume a curvilinear shape when deflected by the second tubular structure.
US08579927B2 Systems and methods for remote endarterectomy
Systems and methods for remote endarterectomy are disclosed. In an embodiment, a device for remote endarterectomy includes an elongated member, having a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal axis therebetween; an endarterectomy unit at the distal end of the elongated member formed by a first member engaged to a second member in a substantial secure alignment with the second member, wherein the endarterectomy unit has a circumferential enclosure configured to separate a plaque core from a blood vessel and an open region surrounded by the enclosure and configured to receive the separated plaque core therethrough; and an actuator coupled to the proximal end of the elongated member for translating the first member relative to the second member across the open space to transect the plaque core received in the open space.
US08579925B2 Medical clamp
A medical clamp includes a lower arm assembly, an upper arm assembly, and a belt. The upper arm assembly is pivotally connected to the lower arm assembly. The lower arm assembly and the upper arm assembly are configured for clamping relative to one another. The belt is connected to the lower arm assembly and the upper arm assembly and is configured for forming a loop therebetween.
US08579917B1 Surgical staple remover with removable front end
A surgical staple remover apparatus includes a handle located at a rear of the apparatus, a housing having an interior volume and a distal opening, and an insert element located in the distal opening, wherein the insert element comprises at least two sidewalls and an upward sloped jaw element comprising a pair of parallel jaws. The apparatus includes an arm having a hook element and a lever mechanically coupled to the arm, wherein moving the lever closer to the handle results in the hook element pressing against a crown of a surgical staple, deforming the surgical staple for removal and moving the surgical staple towards the rear. The surgical staple remover apparatus further includes a strip element, such that when the hook element moves the surgical staple towards the rear, the surgical staple is moved under the strip element and held in place by same.
US08579897B2 Bipolar forceps
In various surgical techniques, a bipolar forceps can be used to seal a vessel in two locations such that the vessel can be incised at a location positioned intermediate the two seal locations. The bipolar forceps can include a cutting element which can be configured to incise the vessel. In various embodiments, the cutting element can include a sharp edge which can be moved relative to the vessel. In at least one embodiment, the cutting element can be electrically connected to a source of energy. The bipolar forceps can include first and second electrodes positioned within first and second jaw members, respectively, wherein at least one of the jaw members can include a substantially tapered profile and can be configured to pull the vessel away from the surrounding soft tissue. Such jaw members can include ridges, teeth, and/or a textured outer surface configured to grip the soft tissue and/or vessel.
US08579888B2 Medical probes for the treatment of blood vessels
Devices and methods for thermally-mediated treatment of blood vessels to elicit an immune response to cause rapid endothelial growth over at least portions of an implant or stent to prevent adverse events such as restenosis. Devices and methods for thermally-mediated treatment to inhibit contraction of vessels to elicit an immune response to cause rapid endothelial growth over at least portions of a stent to prevent adverse events such as restenosis.
US08579886B2 Accordion style cable stand-off
A cable stand-off for use with an electrosurgical system includes an accordion body portion having a plurality of panels, and a plurality of hinges. Each panel has at least one hole formed therethrough. The holes of the plurality of panels are axially aligned with one another. The plurality of hinges couples adjacent panels to one another. In one embodiment, the hinges couple adjacent panels in a tip-to-tail fashion. The accordion body portion may be made of a flexible material. Each panels may further include at least one slot extending from a hole to an edge of the panel.
US08579878B2 Hanger label for a liquid bag and method for attaching a label to a liquid-filled bag
A special label is adapted for labeling of infusion bags containing a liquid. The bag is labeled only in a small partial area, which does not contain any liquid. For safe labeling capable of being automated, the label consists of a special film composite, which makes it possible to form a flap with special hinge properties. By virtue of the special fastening options, accidental detachment of the label from the infusion bag is prevented.
US08579869B2 Needle mounting system and a method for mounting a needle assembly
A needle mounting system and methods for mounting a needle assembly on a needle mount are disclosed. The needle mounting system includes a needle hub having protrusions extending radially inward. A needle mount has a plurality of slots to receive the protrusions. The slots have a first portion that defines a passageway substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the needle mount and a second portion substantially perpendicular to the axis. The needle hub and mount provide a method wherein a needle assembly may be mounted on an injection device without completely rotating the needle hub relative to the needle mount.
US08579863B2 Catheter patch
The present invention relates to a patch, which can be used to secure catheters, wound drainage devices, and/or drug delivery devices, when said catheter and related devices are inserted into the body. The invention also can deliver antimicrobial substances to the site of insertion of a catheter and related devices into a body as well as other medicinal factors, such as wound and tissue healing factors that may be desired to be delivered to the site of insertion.
US08579848B2 Active drainage systems with pressure-driven valves and electronically-driven pump
An IOP control system for implantation in an eye of a patient is disclosed. The IOP control system includes a drainage tube configured to convey aqueous humor from an anterior chamber of an eye and includes a pressure-driven valve system in fluid communication with the drainage tube and configured to control flow rates of the aqueous humor. The valve system includes a plurality of pressure-driven valves arranged to operate in cooperation with each other. The IOP control system may include an electronic pump system to further regulate flow.
US08579844B1 Traction device and associated method for increasing intervertebral space and lengthening the spine
A therapeutic traction device for increasing intervertebral spaces along a cervical spine of a user includes a user interface, a controller, a neck rest section, a crossbar provided with first and second clamps, a curvilinear back pad connected to an anterior side of the crossbar, and a utility box connected to a posterior side of the crossbar. The utility box includes a rectilinear driven rod partially seated within the utility box and statically mated to the neck rest section, and a mechanism for linearly reciprocating the driven rod along a first vertical travel path defined posterior of the back pad such that the neck rest section is synchronously raised and lowered above the crossbar. In this manner, the back pad remains statically mated to the crossbar while the neck rest section is raised and lowered along a second vertical travel path defined anterior of the first vertical travel path.