Document Document Title
US08583100B2 Distributed remote base station system
A distributed base station system for high speed data transmission is disclosed. The system includes a plurality of remote antennas, each antenna being coupled to a router. The plurality of remote antennas is coupled to each other and is arranged into a network.
US08583095B2 Mobile terminal device
A mobile telephone includes a display, a memory which stores at least an originator name associated with a telephone number or a mail address as originator information, and a display controller which controls display in notifying the arrival of an incoming telephone call or incoming electronic mail. It is determined whether the mobile telephone is moved in a preset pattern based on output from an acceleration sensor in notifying the arrival of an incoming call. In the case where the mobile telephone is moved in the preset pattern, the display controller causes the display to display an originator name from originator information.
US08583093B1 Playing local device information over a telephone connection
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for playing local device information over a telephone connection. In one aspect, a method includes establishing, by a first electronic client communication device, an audio connection between the first electronic client communication device and a remote second electronic client communication device, determining that a user has selected a control of the first electronic client communication device, selecting, with a computer system and in response to determining that the user selected the control, text data that is associated with the user or the first client communication device, translating, with the computer system, the text data into a speech signal, and playing the speech signal to the remote second client device over the audio connection by electronically inserting the speech signal into the audio connection.
US08583087B2 Disambiguating ambiguous characters
In one general sense, information may be presented to a user by receiving one or more ambiguous characters that may be resolved to one of at least two disambiguated characters, exchanging at least one of the ambiguous characters with a host, receiving, from the host, results that reflect disambiguated terms related to the ambiguous characters exchanged with the host, rendering the results in a manner enabling the user to perceive which of the disambiguated terms will be used upon user selection of an aspect of the results, and enabling the user to select an aspect of the results to effect use of a corresponding one of the disambiguated terms.
US08583085B2 Mobile equipment, base station apparatus and communication control method
A mobile equipment makes a connection setting by setting a connection to a base station apparatus, and after a communication with the base station apparatus is disconnected, makes a re-connect request to a base station apparatus that is capable of continuing the communication. The mobile equipment is allocated with a mobile equipment identifier for identifying the mobile equipment when making the connection setting, and is notified of the mobile equipment identifier and an address of a network layer of the base station apparatus to which the connection setting is made. The mobile equipment includes a connection re-establishment message processor to generate a re-connect request that includes the address and the mobile equipment identifier, and to send the re-connect request to the base station apparatus that is capable of continuing the communication, and a connection control unit to re-establish the connection to the base station apparatus that is capable of continuing the communication. The connection control unit re-establishes the connection according to mobile equipment information related to the connection setting acquired by the base station apparatus that is capable of continuing the communication, based on the address and the mobile equipment identifier.
US08583084B2 Ping feature for electronic devices
A pinging electronic device, a pingable electronic device and a network for the devices are disclosed. The ping electronic devices comprising a ping function and a transmitter wherein the ping function is adapted to generate and the transmitter is adapted to transmit over an ad hoc wireless network at least one associated ping control message to at least one pingable electronic device paired to the pinging electronic device for actuation of at least one indicator element of the at least one pingable electronic device.
US08583080B2 Access control method for certain user targeted base station, base station apparatus and mobile communication management apparatus
In a mobile communication system including Home eNBs, information on mobile stations permitted to access each Home eNB can be easily registered, and the permitted mobile stations can be connected to the Home eNB substantially at the same time of the registration of the access permission. In order to control access to a certain user targeted base station, the information on mobile stations permitted to access the certain user targeted base station is supplied to the certain user targeted base station. Then, the information on the access permitted mobile stations is transmitted to a mobile communication management apparatus on a network. The access permitted mobile station registration is stored in the mobile communication management apparatus in association with the certain user targeted base station. When the access permitted mobile station has entered a location registration area covering the certain user targeted base station or exists in the location registration area, the mobile communication management apparatus transmits connection information for the certain user targeted base station to the mobile station.
US08583076B2 Emergency communication system and method
A method and system for providing an emergency contact service are disclosed. The emergency contact system monitors presence off users with respect to various user devices in order to determine at which devices each user is present. An emergency message is then transmitted to devices at which the user is present. The emergency contact service is then capable of receiving a confirmation message to confirm receipt of the emergency message. The emergency contact service can track the users by retrieving location information, such as a GPS location, associated with a device at which a user is present. The emergency contact service can then identify whether a user in is the vicinity of an emergency location, and transmit an emergency message to the user is the user is in the vicinity of the emergency location.
US08583073B2 Mixer and frequency converting apparatus
A mixer includes an adder that inputs a first high-frequency signal and a second high-frequency signal for local use, adds the first high-frequency signal and the second high-frequency signal, and outputs as an addition signal; a magnetoresistive effect element that includes a fixed magnetic layer, a free magnetic layer, and a non-magnetic spacer layer disposed between the fixed magnetic layer and the free magnetic layer, and is operable when the addition signal has been inputted, to multiply the first high-frequency signal and the second high-frequency signal included in the addition signal using a magnetoresistive effect to generate a multiplication signal; a magnetic field applying unit applying a magnetic field to the free magnetic layer; and a first impedance converting unit that is passive, inputs the multiplication signal outputted from the magnetoresistive effect element, converts the multiplication signal to a lower impedance than an input impedance, and outputs the converted signal.
US08583060B2 Polar modulator and method for generating a polar modulated signal
A polar modulator for generating a polar-modulated signal based on amplitude information and phase information includes a phase-locked loop which is implemented to enable a setting of a frequency depending on a control value to obtain a phase-locked loop output signal. The polar modulator further includes a modulation means which is implemented to combine an amplitude modulation signal derived from the amplitude information with the phase-locked loop output signal to generate the polar-modulated signal. The polar modulator further includes a control value generator which is implemented to high-pass filter an amplitude signal derived from the amplitude information, to obtain a high-pass filtered amplitude signal, wherein the control value generator is implemented to combine the high-pass filtered amplitude signal with a phase signal based on the phase information to generate the control value signal representing the control value.
US08583058B2 Method and system for chip-to-chip mesh networks
A wireless device comprising a plurality of chips may be operable to communicate wireless signals via a mesh network comprising a plurality of integrated directional antennas on the plurality of chips. Wireless signals may be communicated between the plurality of the chips and/or with devices external to the wireless device via the mesh network. Beam-formed wireless signals may be communicated via the plurality of integrated directional antennas. The plurality of chips may be integrated on a single package or on a plurality of packages, which may comprise one or more circuit boards. Wireless signals may be communicated with devices external to the single package via the mesh network. The directional antennas may comprise patch antennas and/or dipole antennas.
US08583056B2 Wireless/wired mobile communication device with option to automatically block wireless communication when connected for wired communication
A mobile wireless communication device also has at least one wired communication port. Enhanced security is achieved by permitting the device to automatically disable one or more wireless ports when connected to a wired port. Specific combinations/permutations of such automatic control may be effected by use of an IT Policy also resident on the device.
US08583050B2 Building influence estimation apparatus and building influence estimation method
Appropriate and easy estimation is achieved for influence of a building on a mobile communication terminal. A building influence estimation apparatus 10 to estimate influence of a building on a mobile communication terminal 20 has: a reception information acquiring unit 12 which acquires reception information indicative of a reception intensity of a radio wave received by the mobile communication terminal 20 from a base station 30 and indicative of the base station 30; a location information acquiring unit 13 which acquires location information indicative of a location where the radio wave was received; a reception intensity estimating unit 14 which estimates a reception intensity of the radio wave according to the location indicated by the location information; a comparing unit 15 which makes a comparison between the estimated reception intensity and the reception intensity of the radio wave indicated by the reception information; a building influence estimating unit 16 which estimates influence of the building, based on the result of the comparison; and an outputting unit 17 which outputs information indicative of the estimated influence of the building.
US08583049B2 Self-optimizing integrated RF converter
Techniques are disclosed for optimization of RF converters. The techniques can be employed, for instance, in RF converters implemented in semiconductor materials (system-on-chip, or chip set) or with discrete components on a printed circuit board. In any such cases, the RF converter system can be configured with one or more actuators to adjust performance, one or more sensor to assess the performance (e.g., linearity of RF converter) and parameters of interest (e.g., ambient temperature, and a control block for controlling the sensors and actuators. The configuration allows the RF converter to autonomously self-optimize for linearity or other parameters of interest such as gain, noise figure, and dynamic range, across a broad range of variables.
US08583047B2 Frequency band adaptive wireless communication
A system, apparatus and method is disclosed for multiband wireless communication. Frequency bands and/or transmission formats are identified as available within a range for wireless communication. Signal quality metrics for each frequency band are evaluated by a receiver to identify qualified frequency bands. The qualified frequency bands can be ranked according to one or more signal quality metrics, where the list of qualified bands can be communicated to a transmitter. The transmitter is arranged to evaluate the list of qualified bands and select a communication method based on the available frequency bands and a selected communication optimization scenario. Multiple frequency bands and communication methods can be utilized by the transmitter such that a combination of licensed, unlicensed, semilicensed, and overlapped frequency bands can be simultaneously used for communication. The receiver continually monitors communications and can report link performance to the transmitter for adaptive control of the selected communication methods.
US08583042B2 Channel randomization for backoff efficiency improvement
Methods and apparatus for solving problems caused by backoff procedures like that specified in the BLUETOOTH Link Layer Specification, by introducing selected randomizations of communication channels used for communication by scanning devices.
US08583038B2 Device and method for content searching between peer devices
A portable communication device is equipped to search for content stored on a target electronic device. The portable communication device transfers user-defined content search query to an electronic device via a near-field communications (NFC) module. The portable communication device receives search results from the electronic device via the NFC module and indicates to the user that search results have been received from the electronic device. The portable communication device facilitates content searching and data transfer between two devices.
US08583029B2 Satellite broadcast receiving and distribution system
A satellite system for transmission of signals of two different frequencies and polarizations simultaneously, and will accommodate two different polarity commands from different sources at the same time. The satellite system includes a satellite antenna that receives signals. A head-in frequency processor enables the different frequencies and polarizations to be transmitted simultaneously via a single coaxial cable. This single coaxial cable is coupled to a head-out receiver processor which is connected to a receiver. This configuration provides for the system that will permit for satellite broadcasting in locations that are not in the line-of-sight path to the satellites such as high-rises, hospitals, condominiums, schools, and the like.
US08583025B2 Image forming apparatus which decreases a sheet transportation speed difference between a registration device and a transfer device
An image forming apparatus includes a transfer material transportation device to transport a transfer material; a transfer device to transfer a toner image to the transfer material transported by the transfer material transportation device; a fusing device, disposed after the transfer device, to fuse a toner image on the transfer material transported by the transfer material transportation device; a registration device, disposed before the transfer device, to feed the transfer material, supplied from a sheet feeder, to the transfer device; and a biasing device, disposed for the registration device, to regulate movement of the registration device to decrease a speed difference between a transfer material transport speed generated by the transfer device and a transfer material transport speed generated by the registration device.
US08583020B2 Fixing device and image forming apparatus incorporating same
A fixing device includes a tubular belt holder, a rotatable flexible fuser belt, a contact member, a pressure member, and a heater. The tubular belt holder extends in an axial direction thereof. The fuser belt is looped into a generally cylindrical configuration around the belt holder. The tubular belt holder retains the fuser belt in shape as the belt rotates in a circumferential direction. The contact member and pressure member extend in the axial direction. The pressure member presses against the contact member through the fuser belt to form a fixing nip. The heater is disposed to heat a predetermined circumferential portion of the fuser belt. The belt holder includes a first circumferential section and a second circumferential section. The first circumferential section faces the heated portion. The second circumferential section faces upstream from the heated portion in the circumferential direction.
US08583019B2 Fixing device and image forming apparatus incorporating same
A fixing device includes an endless belt-shaped fixing member; a pressing member; a contact member provided inside a loop formed by the fixing member and pressed against the pressing member via the fixing member to form a nip between the pressing member and the fixing member, a laminated heater facing an inner circumferential face of the fixing member to heat the fixing member, connected to an external power source, and including a heat generation sheet that includes a heat-resistant resin in which conductive particles to receive electricity from the external power source and generate heat are unevenly dispersed throughout the heat-resistant resin to have a dispersal gradient of increasing particle dispersion density from an inner face toward an outer face of the heat generation sheet; and a heater support to support the laminated heater along the inner circumferential face of the fixing member.
US08583005B2 Process cartridge and image forming apparatus
A process includes an image bearing member unit; a developing unit; a shaft provided in either the image bearing member unit or the developing unit at an end portion of the process cartridge with respect to an image bearing member axial direction; and an opening, provided in the unit at the end portion, engaged with the shaft to permit movement of the developing unit relative to the image bearing member unit. The opening defines a first contact portion, when the process cartridge is mounted to a main assembly, contacting the shaft to permit movement of the developing unit, and defines a second contact portion, when the second contact portion contacts the shaft when the process cartridge is mounted to the main assembly and does not receive a driving force from the main assembly, contacting the developing unit so the shaft and the first contact portion are in contact.
US08583003B2 Tubular skiving seal for a rotary toner metering mechanism and methods for forming the tubular skiving seal
A skiving seal for blocking toner from entering a gap between adjacent a rotatable member in a toner container system of an image forming apparatus. The skiving seal includes a flexible sheet having a surface and a length. The skiving seal includes a tubular portion formed by folding the flexible sheet over itself from an edge extending along the length of the flexible sheet without creasing the fold and adhesively adhering a portion of the folded portion of the flexible sheet to the surface of the flexible sheet along the length of the flexible sheet. The skiving seal includes an adhesive-coated area unobstructed on the surface of the flexible sheet for adhesively affixing the skiving seal in the toner container system.
US08583001B2 Developing device and process cartridge
A developing device includes a developing container, provided with an opening, for containing a developer; a developing roller, provided at the opening, for forming a developer image on an image bearing member; a seal member, provided at the opening along an end portion of the developing roller, for preventing toner leakage from a gap between the opening and the developing roller; and a developer supplying roller, including a core material and a cylindrical elastic member which is provided around the core material and is contacted to the developing roller, for supplying the developer to the developing roller. The cylindrical elastic member has an end surface and a central portion with respect to a longitudinal direction thereof. The end surface has an outer diameter larger than that of the central portion so as to be in non-contact with the seal member.
US08582999B2 Process cartridge and electrophotographic apparatus having electrical connection
A process cartridge includes an image carrier unit which is equipped with an image carrier, on which an electrostatic latent image is formed, and a developer supply unit which supplies developer to the image carrier unit 11. The image carrier unit and the developer supply unit are configured to be attached and detached with respect to an apparatus main body in which the units are accommodated. Electrical contacts are provided to form electrical connection between the image carrier unit 11 and the developer supply unit 9 in a mounted state in the apparatus main body.
US08582997B2 Image forming apparatus
In an image forming apparatus, a controller performs development of toner patterns corresponding to a first halftoning method and a second halftoning method. One of the toner patterns contains first patch images for the first halftoning method, and another one contains second patch images for the second halftoning method. The controller performs development of only one out of both a first patch image (one of the first patch images) and a second patch image (one of the second patch images) if an absolute value of a difference between the number of dots in the first patch image and that in the second patch image is equal to or less than a predetermined value and an absolute value of a difference between the number of dot-level edges in the first patch image and that in the second patch image is equal to or less than a predetermined value.
US08582991B2 Fixing device and image forming apparatus incorporating same
A fixing device includes a separator presser that presses against a plurality of separators to separate the plurality of separators from a fixing rotary body that contacts an opposed rotary body to form a fixing nip therebetween through which a recording medium bearing a toner image passes. A single driver is connected to the separator presser to separate the separator presser from the plurality of separators. An entering recording medium detector is disposed upstream from the fixing nip in a conveyance direction of the recording medium to detect the recording medium. A controller is connected to the driver to control the driver based on a detection signal sent from the entering recording medium detector to change a contact time period for which the plurality of separators contacts the fixing rotary body.
US08582990B2 Recording-medium imaging device and image forming apparatus
An effective image area can be properly corrected in accordance with the quantity of light from an irradiation unit by selecting, as the effective image area, pixels having light quantities more than or equal to a threshold value that allows accurate acquisition of a surface image of a recording medium, on the basis of a light quantity distribution of the light from the irradiation unit. This reduces the influence of mounting accuracy of the irradiation unit, and allows the recording medium to be identified accurately.
US08582989B2 Image forming apparatus with replaceable developer holder
A process cartridge includes a toner reservoir. A first controller calculates a consumed amount of toner based on image data. A toner bottle is attached to the process cartridge. The toner bottle includes a toner chamber that holds the toner therein and supplies the toner into the reservoir. The toner bottle includes a first memory holding first information on a first amount of toner in the toner chamber and first identification information on the toner bottle. A second memory holds second information on a second amount of toner in the reservoir and second identification information on the toner bottle. If the first and second identification information do not coincide, it is determined that the toner bottle has been replaced and then the first information and the second information are updated based on the first information, the second information, and a capacity of the toner chamber.
US08582986B2 Inventory management device and inventory management method
Provided is an inventory management device, connected over a network to groups of image processing devices, for managing inventory, by device group, of consumable supplies used in the image processing devices. The inventory management device includes an inventory information storage unit that stores inventory information by device group and an inventory supplement selection unit that selects supplies to supplement the inventory. The inventory information includes, in association for each supply, an inventory amount, an image processing device identifier, a device group identifier, a maximum inventory amount for the device group, and a projected replacement timing. When a supply is replaced, the inventory supplement selection unit refers to the inventory information for the device group of the image processing device in which the supply was replaced to select supplies to supplement the inventory without exceeding the maximum inventory amount, starting from the supply with the earliest projected replacement timing.
US08582981B2 Optical transmitter and control method therefor
The disclosed optical transmitter and control method include performing phase modulation of a light propagating through a corresponding optical path in accordance with a data signal, supplying bias voltages for regulating an operating point of each of phase modulation performed, imparting a predetermined phase difference, supplying bias voltages for phase difference regulation and coupling lights output from the corresponding optical paths. The optical transmitter includes superimposing a pilot signal on either one of bias voltages where the pilot signal has a frequency lower than a frequency of a bit rate of the data signal, and performing a feedback control in accordance with a result of monitoring.
US08582977B2 Optical transmission system and optical transmission method
An optical transmission system includes: a two-lightwave generator for generating optical signals having wavelengths λ1 and λ2 from laser light; a photodetector for detecting a microwave signal M12 from two optical signals distributed by an optical coupler; an optical modulator for frequency-shifting the two optical signals; a Faraday reflector for reflecting the two optical signals; an optical coupler for mixing the two optical signals that have been reflected by the Faraday reflector, frequency-shifted again, transmitted by an optical fiber, and guided by a polarization beam splitter, with two optical signals distributed by an optical coupler; an optical demultiplexer for wavelength-dividing four mixed optical signals into optical signals having the wavelengths λ1 and λ2; photodetectors for detecting respective beat signals of the wavelength-divided optical signals having λ1 and λ2; and a phase difference detector for detecting a phase difference between the beat signals of the optical signals having λ1 and λ2.
US08582971B2 Method and apparatus to deploy fiber optic based access networks
Methods and apparatus to deploy fiber optic based access networks are disclosed. An example access network comprises a first fiber optic cable segment to couple an optical access head-end to a first pedestal and to transport user data, a second fiber optic cable segment to couple the first pedestal to a second pedestal and to transport a first portion of the user data to the second pedestal, a drop cable segment to couple the first pedestal to a customer premises and to transport a second portion of the user data to the customer premises, and a switch at the first pedestal to route the first portion of the user data between the first and second fiber optic cable segments and to route the second portion of the user data between the first fiber optic cable segment and the drop cable segment.
US08582965B2 Image capturing apparatus, method for controlling image capturing apparatus, and method for predicting photometric value
An image capturing apparatus comprises: a photometry unit configured to perform photometry on a subject and output a photometric value; an obtaining unit configured to obtain a plurality of photometric values from the photometry unit during a predetermined period of time; and a calculation unit configured to perform a prediction calculation to predict a luminance of the subject based on the plurality of photometric values obtained by the obtaining unit.
US08582959B2 Apparatus for recording and/or playing back catalog information
A storage medium which stores catalog information and a catalog information recording and/or playback apparatus and method therefor. Using the method, catalog information including a still picture and additional information together with audio data are recorded on a storage medium such as a digital versatile disk (DVD), which is an optical record storage medium, and the catalog information is played back during playback of the audio data, to thereby provide various information on the audio data. Also, the apparatus includes a buffer memory for catalog playback which maintains a predetermined standard and compatibility, and is capable of real-time reading during playback of the audio data, and automatically plays back the catalog content, corresponding to the playback state of the audio data, when there is no additional selection of a user.
US08582957B2 Methods and apparatus for visually displaying recording timer information
The various embodiments described herein generally provide apparatus, systems and methods which facilitate the display of television recording information to. More particularly, television recording information is presented visually to a user in a recording information menu. The visual recording information menu includes a time axis, and recording timers associated with particular television programs are presented as visual representations along the time axis. In the case that multiple television receiving resources are available, a resource axis may separately present recording timers associated with each of the disparate television receiving resources.
US08582941B2 Micromodule cables and breakout cables therefor
Micromodule breakout cables are constructed to pass selected burn tests while maintaining a desired degree of accessibility and durability. The micromodule cables can be incorporated in data centers and are robust enough to serve as furcation legs while allowing hand accessibility. The cables can incorporate optical fibers with low delta attenuation and can have low skew.
US08582940B2 Fiber optic cables with extruded access features and methods of making fiber optic cables
Cables are constructed with embedded discontinuities in the cable jacket that allow the jacket to be torn to provide access to the cable core. The discontinuities can be longitudinally extending strips of polymer material coextruded in the cable jacket.
US08582936B2 Separating and combining single-mode and multimode optical beams
Techniques for combining initially separate single mode and multimode optical beams into a single “Dual Mode” fiber optic have been developed. Bi-directional propagation of two beams that are differentiated only by their mode profiles (i.e., wavefront conditions) is provided. The beams can be different wavelengths and or contain different modulation information but still share a common aperture. This method allows the use of conventional micro optics and hybrid photonic packaging techniques to produce small rugged packages suitable for use in industrial or military environments.
US08582931B1 Optical XOR gate
An optical XOR gate is formed as a photonic integrated circuit (PIC) from two sets of optical waveguide devices on a substrate, with each set of the optical waveguide devices including an electroabsorption modulator electrically connected in series with a waveguide photodetector. The optical XOR gate utilizes two digital optical inputs to generate an XOR function digital optical output. The optical XOR gate can be formed from III-V compound semiconductor layers which are epitaxially deposited on a III-V compound semiconductor substrate, and operates at a wavelength in the range of 0.8-2.0 μm.
US08582923B2 Image processing apparatus, image processsing method, and program
An image processing apparatus includes: a representative value calculation unit calculating a representative value from an input first image signal; an interpolation unit interpolating the representative value calculated by the representative value calculation unit using a second image signal input after the first image signal; and an adjustment processing unit blending the interpolated image signal and the second image signal so that an output ratio of the image signal interpolated by the interpolation unit is smaller when a variation amount of an image corresponding to the second image signal with respect to an image corresponding to the first image signal is large in comparison to a case when the variation amount is small.
US08582918B2 Imaging device, image composition and display device, and image composition method
An imaging device of the present invention comprises an imaging section for forming a subject image and outputting image data, a face detection section for detecting a person's face based on the image data, a decoration image selection section for selecting a decoration image from a plurality of decoration image data, in accordance with a face detected by the face detection section, and a first combining section for combining the selected decoration image and the face image. Also, an image composition and display device of the present invention comprises a storage section for storing image data, a decoration image selection section for selecting a decoration image from a plurality of decoration image data, in accordance with a face detected from image data, and a first combining section for combining the selected decoration image and the face image.
US08582917B2 Data conversion method and data conversion device
A data conversion method and a data conversion device convert a large cubic three-dimensional image data to a plurality of pieces of small cubic one-dimensional image data, or convert a plurality of pieces of small cubic one-dimensional image data to a large cubic three-dimensional image data. The data conversion method includes the following steps, marking a three-dimensional index on three-dimensional image data; converting the three-dimensional index to a writing sequence index; inputting the three-dimensional image data to a buffer memory in sequence according to the writing sequence index; computing a reading sequence index according to the writing sequence index; outputting data blocks from the buffer memory in sequence according to the reading sequence index. Through the method and the device, use of the memory is reduced, and time for conversion is lowered.
US08582916B2 Noise reduction of images
A method of reducing noise in an image, comprising: a) for each pixel being examined in the image, selecting a set of search pixels; b) calculating a value of one or more features of a neighborhood of each search pixel, and a value of corresponding features of a neighborhood of the pixel being examined; and c) calculating a reduced noise grey value for each pixel being examined, based on raw or transformed grey values of its search pixels, with greater sensitivity to those with one or more feature values similar to those of the pixel being examined; wherein calculating the value of at least one feature comprises calculating a characteristic of a distribution of raw or transformed grey values of pixels in the neighborhood, other than a mean grey value of all pixels in the neighborhood.
US08582911B2 Image restoration device, image restoration method and image restoration system
An image restoration device, an image restoration method, and an image restoration system are provided. The image restoration device includes a point spread function estimation unit, and an image restoration filter unit. The point spread function estimation unit receives an image signal and estimates a Point Spread Function (PSF) from the received image signal. The image restoration filter unit receives the image signal and the PSF, generates an image restoration filter coefficient from the PSF, and filters the image signal according to the image restoration filter coefficient to output the filtered image signal.
US08582906B2 Image data compression and decompression
Compression and decompression of image data, including a first image of an object. The first image may be divided into portions. For each portion, it may be determined whether the portion includes a part of the object. The image data may be compressed based on said determining. If a threshold ratio of portions that do not include a part of the object is reached, portions including a part of the object may be compressed according to a first compression method and portions not including a part of the object may not be compressed, where background information is stored for the portions not including a part of the object. If the threshold ratio of portions that do not include a part of the object is not reached, each portion of the object may be compressed according to the first compression method. The compressed data may be decompressed in a reverse fashion.
US08582905B2 Methods and systems for rate control within an encoding device
This disclosure describes techniques for adjusting encoding variables of an encoding device. In response to a request to resize a segment of data, an encoding module adjusts at least one encoding variable used to encode one or more subsequent segments of data such that the subsequent segments of data are encoded at a bit rate that is different than the bit rate at which the subsequent segments of data would have been encoded had there been no request to resize. At some point, the encoding module re-adjusts the encoding variables used to encode the segments of data such that the subsequent segments of data are encoded to achieve a desired encoding result. For example, the encoding module may re-adjust the encoding variables after a period of time or may incrementally adjust the encoding variables until the encoding variables result in achieving the desired encoding result.
US08582904B2 Method of second order prediction and video encoder and decoder using the same
A method and apparatus for second order prediction are provided. In the decoding method, the reconstruction of decoded picture comprises second order prediction and compensation and second prediction storage. The second order prediction and compensation comprises first prediction and compensation and second prediction and compensation, input of which includes reconstructed first order residue and second order residue. The encoding method comprises second order prediction and second prediction storage. Second order prediction consists of first prediction and second prediction, input of which includes reconstructed first order residue and second order residue, and it will generate bit-stream accordingly. This invention will eliminate redundancy using second order prediction encoding and decoding method, so that coding efficiency will be improved.
US08582903B2 Efficient macroblock header coding for video compression
The coded block parameters used to code blocks of image samples into structures called macroblocks are compressed more efficiently by exploiting the correlation between chrominance and luminance blocks in each macroblock. In particular, the coded block pattern for chrominance and luminance are combined into a single parameter for the macroblock and jointly coded with a single variable length code. To further enhance coding efficiency, the spatial coherence of coded block patterns can be exploited by using spatial prediction to compute predicted values for coded block pattern parameters.
US08582892B2 Method and apparatus for face determination
Provided are a method and an apparatus for processing digital images, and more particularly, a method and an apparatus for face determination, wherein it is determined if a subject is a true subject based on distance information regarding a distance to the subject and face detection information. In an embodiment, the face detecting apparatus is a digital image processing apparatus and includes a digital signal processor for determining if a subject is a true subject based on distance information regarding a distance to the subject and face length information.
US08582887B2 Image processing system, learning device and method, and program
The present invention relates to an image processing system, a learning device and method, and a program which enable easy extraction of feature amounts to be used in a recognition process. Feature points are extracted from a learning-use model image, feature amounts are extracted based on the feature points, and the feature amounts are registered in a learning-use model dictionary registration section 23. Similarly, feature points are extracted from a learning-use input image containing a model object contained in the learning-use model image, feature amounts are extracted based on these feature points, and these feature amounts are compared with the feature amounts registered in a learning-use model registration section 23. A feature amount that has formed a pair the greatest number of times as a result of the comparison is registered in the model dictionary registration section 12 as the feature amount to be used in the recognition process. The present invention is applicable to a robot.
US08582886B2 Compression of text contents for display remoting
Embodiments of the invention compress an image that contains a representation of text. Embodiments take an image of graphical data and determines one or more portions of that image that have a high probability of containing text. Embodiments then take each such portion of the image and determines one or more rows of text within each portion (where text does, in fact, exist within the portion). The embodiments then traverse each vertical band of pixels of each row to determine sub-glyphs. Where a particular sub-glyph is encountered for the first time, the embodiments cache that sub-glyph, and send it (or a compressed representation thereof) to a client in a remote presentation session. Where a particular sub-glyph has been cached already, the embodiments send a reference to that cached vertical band to the client.
US08582885B2 Image providing device, image processing method, image processing program, and recording medium
When assigning an acquired image to a region that satisfies conditions where the acquired image can be assigned, the acquired image is not wasted as much as possible. An image providing device acquires an image specified by a user, searches for a region satisfying conditions where the acquired posted image can be assigned, and assigns the acquired image to the searched region. If there is no region that satisfies the conditions where the acquired posted image can be assigned, the image providing device further divides any one of regions to which no image is assigned into a plurality of regions, assigns the acquired image to a region satisfying conditions where the acquired image can be assigned among a plurality of regions formed by division, and causes a mosaic image in which the acquired image is placed to be displayed based on assignment.
US08582882B2 Unit for and method of segmentation using average homogeneity
A segmentation unit included an assignment unit configured to assign a first pixel of a first image of a sequence of images to a segment comprises an assignment unit, and to assign a first homogeneity value to the first pixel on basis of the first image. An averaging unit is configured to calculate an average homogeneity value for the first pixel by averaging the first homogeneity value and a second homogeneity value being determined for a second pixel of a second image of the sequence of images. The first and second pixels are related by a motion vector. A comparing unit is configured to compare the average homogeneity value with a threshold in order to assign the first pixel to the segment.
US08582880B2 Method and apparatus for calculating features of image data
A feature extraction apparatus includes a pixel feature calculator configured to calculate a plurality of pixel features for each of pixels included in a plurality of pieces of image data; a co-occurrence frequency calculator configured to calculate co-occurrence frequencies of the pixel features by comparing the pixel features among corresponding pixels in the pieces of image data; and a co-occurrence frequency output unit configured to output the co-occurrence frequencies.
US08582877B2 Distortion of digital images using spatial offsets from image reference points
A method for distorting a digital image comprising receiving the coordinates of one or more than one image reference point defined by a user within the digital image, receiving one or more than one spatial offset assigned by the user and associated with the coordinates of the one or more than one defined image reference point, providing a mixing function algorithm embodied on a computer-readable medium for distorting the digital image, calculating an offset matrix by applying the mixing function algorithm based on the one or more than one spatial offset and the coordinates of the one or more than one defined image reference point; and distorting the digital image by application of the offset matrix. A graphic tag may be associated with each of the defined image reference points and displayed over the digital image, and the assignment of the spatial offset may be accomplished by movement of the graphic tag with the pointing device. Abstract image reference points may be used to limit distortion.
US08582867B2 Learning-based pose estimation from depth maps
A method for processing data includes receiving a depth map of a scene containing a humanoid form. Respective descriptors are extracted from the depth map based on the depth values in a plurality of patches distributed in respective positions over the humanoid form. The extracted descriptors are matched to previously-stored descriptors in a database. A pose of the humanoid form is estimated based on stored information associated with the matched descriptors.
US08582866B2 Method and apparatus for disparity computation in stereo images
A method and system for generating a disparity map. The method comprises the steps of generating a first disparity map based upon a first image and a second image acquired at a first time, acquiring at least a third image and a fourth image at a second time, and determining one or more portions comprising a difference between one of the first and second images and a corresponding one of the third and fourth images. A disparity map update is generated for the one or more determined portions, and a disparity map is generated based upon the third image and the fourth image by combining the disparity map update and the first disparity map.
US08582864B2 Fault inspection method
A fault inspection method and apparatus in which the scattergram is separated or objects of comparison are combined in such a manner as to reduce the difference between an inspection object image and a reference image. As a result, the difference between images caused by the thickness difference in the wafer can be tolerated and the false information generation prevented without adversely affecting the sensitivity.
US08582859B2 Determining foreshortening optimal view maps taking into account the shape of the vessel cross-section in cardiovascular X-ray systems
In clinical reality, the cross section of the lesions is frequently asymmetric. For clinical purposes it is crucial to find an X-ray view that gives a projection image where the minimum luminal cross section of the lesion is shown. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a system is proposed, wherein the system is adapted to perform the steps of a method of identifying modifications of an elongated element located in an object of interest. The method might comprise the steps of generating a plurality of projections of the object of interest, wherein the projections have different projection angles, determining geometrical aspects of the elongate element in each of the projections, calculating an index on the basis of the geometrical aspects, indicating projections having a desired value of the index.
US08582857B2 Dual-energy material identification method and apparatus with undersampling
A dual-energy material identification method and system with under-sampling is disclosed. A CT image of the object is obtained by using the CT image reconstruction method, while the dual-energy projections are under-sampled to obtain a few samples. Photoelectric coefficient integral and Compton coefficient integral are computed from these dual-energy projection data. The CT image is segmented into regions with image processing technique, and the regions are labeled. The length by which a few dual-energy rays crosses each labeled region is computed, and an equation system is established with dual-energy preprocessing dual-effect decomposition reconstruction method to compute Photoelectric coefficient and Compton coefficient, and then atomic number and electron density of material in each region are computed. The material of the object can be identified with the atomic number.
US08582853B2 Device, system and method for automatic detection of contractile activity in an image frame
A device, system and method for automatic detection of contractile activity of a body lumen in an image frame is provided, wherein image frames during contractile activity are captured and/or image frames including contractile activity are automatically detected, such as through pattern recognition and/or feature extraction to trace image frames including contractions, e.g., with wrinkle patterns. A manual procedure of annotation of contractions, e.g. tonic contractions in capsule endoscopy, may consist of the visualization of the whole video by a specialist, and the labeling of the contraction frames. Embodiments of the present invention may be suitable for implementation in an in vivo imaging system.
US08582844B2 Medical image processing device and method
Extraction means configured to extract a blood vessel region from medical image data, detection means configured to perform evaluation regarding the shape or signal value distribution information in the periphery of a blood vessel including blood vessel contour points and the margin of blood vessel contour points in the blood vessel region extracted by the extraction means and detecting an abnormal portion on the basis of the evaluation result, and display means configured to display information regarding the abnormal portion detected by the detection means are provided.
US08582842B2 Image display device, method and program
A pair of static magnetic field generating means disposed so as to sandwich a space in which an examination target is disposed, magnetic field generating means that applies high-frequency magnetic field and gradient magnetic field to an examination target disposed in the static magnetic field, and reception means that receives a nuclear magnetic resonance signal generated by the examination target are provided. The reception means has a predetermined coil pattern, and contains a reception coil which can be formed in a cylindrical shape. The reception coil has a flexible portion and a rigid portion which are alternately arranged along the peripheral direction when it is designed in a cylindrical shape, and the flexible portion has a flexible board on which a part of the predetermined coil pattern is mounted, and a bubble-containing organic resin portion covering both the surfaces of the flexible board.
US08582834B2 Multi-image face-based image processing
Some embodiments provide a method for detecting and/or identifying a set of faces in a video frame and performing a set of image processing operations based on locations of the set of faces. In particular, the method identifies a set of respective locations of the set of faces in the video frame and applies one or more image processing operations based on the locations of the set of faces found in the video frame. The image processing operations include color correction operations, non-color correction operations, and image processing operations that modify areas inside or outside of the detected and/or identified faces. Additionally, some embodiments provide a graphical user interface for automatically applying image processing operations to an area of a video frame isolated by an ellipse-shaped mask. Furthermore, some embodiments provide a system for automatically applying image processing operations to an area of a video frame isolated by an ellipse-shaped mask.
US08582831B2 Personal identification device and method
A personal identification device including: an image pickup unit; a guide unit to set a finger to be captured; a light source which emits light adapted to be transmitted through the finger and incident on the image pickup unit; an image operating unit which generates a vein pattern from an image picked by the image pickup unit for personal identification, wherein the image operating unit is adapted to detect a contour of the set finger, calculate a width of the contour, and normalize the image based on a magnification determined by using the width of the contour.
US08582830B2 System and method for applying a reflectance modifying agent to change a persons appearance based on a digital image
A computer-controlled system determines attributes of a frexel, which is an area of human skin, and applies a reflectance modifying agent (RMA) at the pixel level to automatically change the appearance of human features based on one or more digital images. The change may be based on a digital image of the same frexel, for as seen in a prior digital photograph captured previously by the computer-controlled system. The system scans the frexel and uses feature recognition software to compare the person's current features in the frexel with that person's features in the digital image. It then calculates enhancements to the make the current features appear more like the features in the digital image, and it applies the RMA to the frexel to accomplish the enhancements. Or the change may be based on a digital image of another person, through the application of RMAs.
US08582825B2 Device and method for displaying full azimuth angle domain image data
A device, system, and method for displaying seismic image data may include computing, from a wide-azimuth data set, a discrete data set associated with an image function at a seismic image point. The discrete data set may be mapped onto a continuous curved three-dimensional surface. The mapped data set may be projected onto a continuous planar surface. The projected data may be displayed as a planar disk. A plurality of continuous planar surfaces, each representing a single image point, may be assembled to form a three-dimensional body, representing a seismic gather of image points. The three-dimensional body may be displayed. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US08582811B2 Unsupervised parameter settings for object tracking algorithms
A method for automatically optimizing a parameter set for a tracking algorithm comprising receiving a series of image frames and processing the image frames using a tracking algorithm with an initialized parameter set. An updated parameter set is then created according to the processed image frames utilizing estimated tracking analytics. The parameters are validated using a performance metric that may be manually or automatically preformed using a GUI. The image frames are collected from a video camera with a fixed set-up at a fixed location. The image frames may include a training traffic video or a training video for tracking humans.
US08582810B2 Detecting potential changed objects in images
A method of detecting potential changed objects in a first image and a second image, where the first and second images at least partially overlap. The method includes obtaining data describing first and second images and detecting sets of objects in images. A common coordinate system for the sets of objects is calculated. Objects in the sets are eliminated based on positions of the objects and objects outside an area of overlap of the images are eliminated. Data indicating the zero or more remaining objects in the sets is output to indicate potential changed objects.
US08582807B2 Systems and methods for determining personal characteristics
Systems and methods are disclosed for determining personal characteristics from images by generating a baseline gender model and an age estimation model using one or more convolutional neural networks (CNNs); capturing correspondences of faces by face tracking, and applying incremental learning to the CNNs and enforcing correspondence constraint such that CNN outputs are consistent and stable for one person.
US08582794B2 Speaker with acoustic damped port
Systems, methods, and devices for improving speaker performance with an acoustic damped port are disclosed. In accordance with various embodiments of the present invention, a damping material is placed around a vented frame of a speaker driver, and substantially covers or fills the vents of the frame. In some embodiments, the damping material results in improved impedance matching with acoustic delay, without required dimensional tuning (as with conventional ports). In some embodiments, it also reduces the air velocity gradients minimizing higher order frequency distortion components. In some embodiments, the damping material also acts as an absorber of energy by coupling to the sound wave. In some embodiments, low-frequency performance is improved in a small-scale design.
US08582787B2 Preamplifier circuit for a microelectromechanical capacitive acoustic transducer
Described herein is a preamplifier circuit for a capacitive acoustic transducer provided with a MEMS detection structure that generates a capacitive variation as a function of an acoustic signal to be detected, starting from a capacitance at rest; the preamplifier circuit is provided with an amplification stage that generates a differential output signal correlated to the capacitive variation. In particular, the amplification stage is an input stage of the preamplifier circuit and has a fully differential amplifier having a first differential input (INP) directly connected to the MEMS detection structure and a second differential input (INN) connected to a reference capacitive element, which has a value of capacitance equal to the capacitance at rest of the MEMS detection structure and fixed with respect to the acoustic signal to be detected; the fully differential amplifier amplifies the capacitive variation and generates the differential output signal.
US08582785B2 Method and apparatus to enhance low frequency components and medium frequency components of audio signal
A method and apparatus to enhance one or more low-frequency components and one or more medium-frequency components of an audio signal. The method includes performing filtering on the input audio signal using a plurality of band-pass filters, generating a plurality of harmonic-frequency signals using a plurality of audio signals resulting from the performing filtering operation, and mixing the plurality of harmonic-frequency signals with the input audio signal.
US08582782B2 Method and device for audio recording
An earpiece (100) is provided. The earpiece can include an Ambient Sound Microphone (111) configured to capture ambient sound, an Ear Canal Microphone (123) configured to capture internal sound in the ear canal, a memory (208) configured to record at least a portion of the history of the ambient sound and the internal sound, and a processor (121) configured to save a recent portion of the history responsive to an event.
US08582769B2 Secure communication over passive optical network (PON) with quantum encryption
Systems and methods to communicate securely includes communicating quantum encryption data on a first wavelength-division multiplexing passive optical network (WDM-PON); and communicating data over separate classical channels of a second WDM-PON, wherein the second WDM-PON synchronizes with the first WDM-PON while providing data communication over the classical channels.
US08582765B2 Masking of data in a calculation
A method and a circuit for ciphering or deciphering data with a key by using at least one variable stored in a storage element and updated by the successive operations, the variable being masked by at least one first random mask applied before use of the key, then unmasked by at least one second mask applied after use of the key, at least one of the masks being dividable into several portions successively applied to the variable and which, when combined, represent the other mask.
US08582760B2 Method and system of managing and filtering electronic messages using cryptographic techniques
Undesirable electronic messages, such as the unsolicited broadcast e-mail known as spam, is not only a nuisance, but wastes both computer and user resources. Conversely, desirable electronic messages with sensitive content is important to secure, so that it is not forged, tampered or revealed. Accordingly, the present invention provides cryptographic methods that simultaneously secures electronic communication and helps fight spam.
US08582758B2 Apparatus and a method for calculating a multiple of a point an elliptic curve
A device and a method for calculating a multiple of a point on an elliptic curve from the right to the left by repeated point doubling and point addition. Each point doubling is evaluated with an extended set of coordinates and each point addition is evaluated by taking as input a restricted set of the extended set of coordinates. The at least one coordinate of the extended set that is not part of the restricted set is stored in a memory between each iteration of the point doubling. This can enable speeding up the calculations as compared to prior art solutions. Also provided is a computer program product.
US08582750B2 Connection recovery in a call center
In one embodiment, a method includes detecting termination of a first connection between a first caller and a first agent during a communication session between the first caller and the first agent. The method also includes storing information indicating a state of the communication session at the termination of the first connection, and communicating the information to the first agent or to a second agent in response to establishment of a second connection between the first caller and the first agent or the second agent to facilitate a continuation of the communication session.
US08582745B1 Simultaneous mutual call handling
A device detects that a first user device is calling a second user device while the second user device is calling the first user device, and sends a notification to the first user device or the second user device indicating that the first user device and the second user device are calling one another. The device receives a response to the notification indicating that the first user device and the second user device are to be connected for a call, designates the first user device or the second user device as a call originator, and connects the first user device and the second user device for the call.
US08582741B2 Unification of rosters in a communication system
In one embodiment, a method for unifying rosters is provided. A client receives an escalation request associated with a first roster and responds to the escalation request. The client subscribes to the first roster as a participant in response to accepting the escalation request or subscribes to the first roster as an observer in response to denying the escalation request. The client identifies a second roster within the first roster that the client is not subscribed to and subscribes to the first roster as an observer. The client updates an entry associated with the client in the second roster to indicate that the client is subscribed to the first roster as one of a participant or an observer. The client additionally updates an entry associated with the client in the first roster to indicate that the client is subscribed to the second roster as an observer.
US08582739B1 Providing access to communication plans via multiple access methods
One computer-implemented method includes identifying a plurality of communication plans, identifying a first communication associated with a first access method and associated with a first attribute, determining a first communication plan associated with the first communication from the plurality of communication plans, the determination based at least in part on the first attribute associated with the first communication, identifying a second communication different than the first communication and associated with the first access method, the second communication associated with a second attribute different than the first attribute, and determining a second communication plan associated with the second communication from the plurality of communication plans, the determination based at least in part on the second attribute associated with the second communication, wherein the first and second communication plans are associated with a prepaid pay-as-you-go or subscription monetary values.
US08582736B2 Communication device and communication system
A communication system includes a data processing device that communicates with a communication device via a first transmission link. The communication device includes a first communication controller that controls communication with the data processing device via the first transmission link, and a second communication controller that controls communication via a second transmission link which is different from the first transmission link. The communication device also includes a transmitter that transmits transmission data sent via the first transmission link through the second transmission link, a canceller that cancels transmission of the transmission data through the second transmission link upon receiving a canceling command via the first transmission link, and an observer that observes whether the communication via the first transmission link, which transmits the transmission data to the communication device, is enabled, in response to receiving the transmission data via the first transmission link.
US08582724B2 E911 location server
A system including a location server configured to receive registration data from an IP device and a location database configured to store location information of the IP device, wherein the location server queries the location database to determine whether the registration data matches the location information stored at the location database.
US08582717B2 Concentration measuring method and fluorescent X-ray spectrometer
In the present invention, a fluorescent X-ray analysis is made for a sample such as a liquid fuel including an object component such as sulfur. A background related to scattered X-rays and a system peak is subtracted from a fluorescent X-ray intensity of the object component, which is obtained from a spectrum acquired by the fluorescent X-ray analysis. A correction corresponding to the composition of the sample is performed for the fluorescent X-ray intensity obtained by subtracting the background. A calibration curve representing the relation between a value, which is obtained after performing the correction for the fluorescent X-ray intensity obtained by subtracting the background, and a concentration of the object component is preset. The concentration of the object component in the sample is calculated on the basis of the calibration curve.
US08582711B2 Clock change device and clock change method
A clock change method includes: converting the serial data synchronized to a first clock into parallel data; latching the serial-to-parallel converted data into a designated data storing circuit with a latch timing that occurs once in every a number of clock cycles of a second clock; and converting the latched parallel data into the serial data synchronized to the second clock, and wherein: each time a packet of serial data synchronized to the first clock is received, a timing adjustment is performed to adjust the latch timing so that the latch timing occurs a predetermined time after occurrence of a conversion timing for converting the serial data synchronized to the first clock into the parallel data.
US08582707B2 Programmable universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter (UART) based on reference frequency
In one embodiment, a method includes determining pre-calculated information. The pre-calculated information is used to determine a counter pattern for a reference clock. The counter pattern include, for at least one data bit, a number of reference clock cycles of the reference clock that is determined based on a frequency of the reference clock and a data rate of a serial data stream. The serial data stream is sampled to read a plurality of data bits based on the counter pattern. A data bit is sampled based on the number of reference clock cycles associated with the data bit.
US08582693B2 Wireless receiver applicable to multiple coexisting positioning systems
Wireless receiver for receiving a plurality of co-existing wireless signals respectively from different positioning systems, includes an analog frontend and an analog-to-digital converting unit. The analog frontend is arranged to convert bands of the co-existing wireless signals into a plurality of corresponding intermediate bands by a local frequency and to provide an intermediate signal including the intermediate bands. The analog-to-digital converting unit is coupled to the analog frontend, and is arranged to convert the intermediate signal to a digital signal, wherein an operation band of the analog-to-digital converting unit covers the plurality of intermediate bands.
US08582690B2 Apparatus and method for determining signal power
An apparatus for determining signal power comprise an oscillating circuit and a determining circuit. The oscillating circuit generates an oscillating signal. When a to-be-detected signal has signal power greater than a threshold, the oscillating signal has a first frequency; when the signal power is smaller than the threshold, the oscillating signal has a second frequency. The determining circuit determines whether the oscillating signal has either the first frequency or the second frequency, and generates a determination result accordingly.
US08582688B2 Method, apparatus, and system for channel estimation
In the field of communications technologies, a method, an apparatus, and a system for channel estimation are provided. The method for channel estimation includes the following steps. An error signal returned by a terminal is received, where the error signal is an error signal of at least two tones in a downlink frequency band. Channels of the at least two tones are obtained according to the error signal. The channels of the at least two tones are interpolated, and channels of remaining tones in the downlink frequency band are obtained. In the method, the apparatus, and the system for channel estimation, a convergence speed of the channel estimation is improved by reducing data of error signals returned by the terminal.
US08582684B2 Interference alignment for channel-adaptive waveform modulation
Embodiments provide an apparatus and method for interference alignment for channel-adaptive waveform modulation. The method includes obtaining at least a part of a first matrix and a part of a second matrix for the impulse response function of a communication channel. The method further includes designing a set of one or more linearly independent waveforms based on at least the obtained parts of the first and second matrices such that a first subspace spanned by the linearly independent waveforms when multiplied by the obtained part of the first matrix at least partially overlaps a second subspace spanned by the linearly independent waveforms when multiplied by the obtained part of the second matrix.
US08582682B2 Digital broadcasting transmission/reception devices capable of improving a receiving performance and signal processing method thereof
Disclosed is a digital broadcasting transmission/reception system having an improved reception performance and a signal-processing method thereof. A digital broadcasting transmitter comprises a TS stream generator for inputting robust and normal packets having stuff bytes in predetermined positions and generating dual TS stream by inserting the robust packets between the normal packets; a randomizer for randomizing the dual TS stream; a stuff byte exchanger for replacing the stuff bytes of a randomized data streams from the randomizer to a predetermined known data; and an encoder for encoding a data streams to which the known data is inserted. Accordingly, the present invention detects the known data from a signal received from a reception side and uses the detected known data for synchronization and equalization, so that the digital broadcasting reception performance can be improved at poor multipath channels.
US08582681B2 Signal receiver apparatus and waveform shaping method
A signal receiver apparatus includes a waveform shaping data storage device storing waveform shaping data of a signal transmitted with a given timing from a signal transmitter device of a plurality of signal transmitter devices which are coupled to the signal receiver apparatus for each of the plurality of signal transmitter devices, and a waveform shaping device reading waveform shaping data of the signal transmitter device in the plurality of signal transmitter device from the waveform shaping data storage device when a signal from the signal transmitter device is received, and shaping a waveform of a received signal from the signal transmitter device.
US08582672B2 System and method for wireless communications using spatial multiplexing with incomplete channel information
A system and method for wireless communications using spatial multiplexing with incomplete channel information is provided. A method for wireless communications includes receiving a reference signal from a communications device, computing at least one first beamforming vector from the received reference signal, selecting at least one second beamforming vector from channel statistics, and transmitting information to the communications device. The reference signal is transmitted using a subset of antennas used for data reception at the communications device, and the transmitting uses the at least one first beamforming vector and the at least one second beamforming vector.
US08582668B2 Soft repetition code combiner using channel state information
An embodiment is a method and apparatus to decode a signal using channel information. A channel state estimator generates a tone value representing channel information. A quantizer quantizes the tone value. A combiner combines de-interleaved symbols weighed by the quantized tone value. A comparator compares the combined de-interleaved symbols with a threshold to generate a decoding decision.Another embodiment is a method and apparatus to decode a signal using averaging. A channel estimator provides a channel estimate. A multiplier multiplies a quantized output of a demodulator with the channel estimate to produce N symbols of a signal corresponding to a carrier. A de-interleaver de-interleaves the N symbols. An averager averages the N de-interleaved symbols to generate a channel response at a carrier.
US08582664B2 Method and device for creating a video sequence representative of a digital video sequence and associated methods and devices for transmitting and receiving video data
Creation of a video sequence representative of a digital video sequence, wherein the digital video sequence is divided into a plurality video sections. For at least one of the video sections of the digital video sequence, at least one video portion of the video section is selected, a video segment is determined comprising the at least one selected video portion, at least one item of identification information is associated with the determined video segment for identification of the corresponding video section, at least one item of location information is also associated with the determined video segment for location within the digital video sequence of the at least one video portion included in the segment, and the determined segment is inserted in the video sequence representative of the digital video sequence.
US08582652B2 Method and apparatus for selecting a coding mode
A method and apparatus for selecting a coding mode for a block of a current picture are disclosed. For example, the method selects a coding mode in accordance with a cost function, for coding the block, wherein the cost function comprises a coding distortion parameter and a number of coding bits parameter, wherein said coding distortion parameter is measured in accordance with at least one of: between a prediction residual and a reconstructed prediction residual, or between a transformed prediction residual and a dequantized transformed prediction residual, wherein the number of coding bits parameter is computed in accordance with at least one of: from a true number of compressed bits resulting from coding said block, directly from a plurality of bins, or directly from a plurality of quantized transform coefficients.
US08582650B1 Manipulation of media streams in the compressed domain
An integrated circuit receives a compressed input stream having a first compression format. A media processing module converts the compressed input stream to an intermediary compression format for processing without fully decompressing the compressed input stream. After processing, a compressed output stream having a second compression format is generated from the intermediary compression format. Processing is dynamically adjusted responsive to changing network conditions. Optionally, the integrated circuit can receive live, raw video, partially encode it into the intermediary compression format, process it with the media process module as well as take the intermediary compression format, decode and output the live, raw video.
US08582628B2 Transmitting apparatus, receiving apparatus, transmitting/receiving system, and image display system
A data reception unit 21 of a reception device 20n receives calibration data to detect a data reception state or a clock reception state in the reception device 20n from a data transmission unit 11 of a transmission device 10. A decoder unit 24 causes a transmission unit 26 to send out calibration sample data that a sampler unit 23 obtained by sampling calibration data to the transmission device 10. A control unit 15 of the transmission device 10 detects a data reception state or a clock reception state in the reception device 20n based on calibration sample data received from the reception device 20n and controls the data transmission unit 11 and a clock transmission unit 12 based on the detection result.
US08582624B2 Method and apparatus for enhancing the accuracy of the estimated covariance matrix in wideband-CDMA systems
A set of channelization codes to be monitored is divided into two groups. The first group includes those codes for which an associated symbol modulation and transmit-diversity scheme is known. In the second group are those codes that are characterized by an unknown symbol modulation or unknown transmit-diversity scheme. The quality of the transmission of each code is then evaluated, using a metric. The metric in turn is used to determine whether the code should be used in estimating the covariance matrix by correlating the RAKE data corresponding to the code (i.e., by computing a correlation matrix for the code) or by first subtracting the channel estimates from the channel samples before correlation (i.e., by computing a covariance matrix for the code). An impairment covariance matrix is computed from the covariance matrices and correlation matrices so computed.
US08582618B2 Surface-emitting semiconductor laser device in which an edge-emitting laser is integrated with a diffractive or refractive lens on the semiconductor laser device
A surface-emitting semiconductor laser device that includes an edge-emitting laser formed in layers of semiconductor material disposed on a semiconductor substrate, a polymer material disposed on the substrate laterally adjacent the layers in which the edge-emitting laser is formed, a diffractive or refractive lens formed on an upper surface of the polymer material, a side reflector formed on an angled side reflector facet of the polymer material generally facing an exit end facet of the laser, and a lower reflector disposed on the substrate beneath the polymer material. Laser light passes out of the exit end facet and propagates through the polymer material before being reflected by the side reflector toward the lower reflector. The laser light is then re-reflected by the lower reflector towards the lens, which directs the laser light out the device in a direction that is generally normal to the upper surface of the substrate.
US08582617B2 Semiconductor laser
An 830 nm broad area semiconductor laser having a distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) structure. The semiconductor laser supports multiple horizontal transverse modes of oscillation extending within a plane perpendicular to a crystal growth direction of the laser, in a direction perpendicular to the length of the resonator of the laser. The resonator includes a diffraction grating in the vicinity of the emitting facet of the laser. The width of the diffraction grating in a plane perpendicular to the growth direction and perpendicular to the length of the resonator is different at first and second locations along the length of the resonator. The width of the diffraction grating along a direction which is perpendicular to the length of the resonator increases with increasing distance from the front facet of the semiconductor laser.
US08582614B2 Laser amplification system and method for generating retrievable laser pulses
The invention relates to a laser amplification system for generating retrievable laser pulses having at least one laser source, in particular with a pulse selector arranged downstream thereof for the targeted selection of amplifiable laser pulses, a laser medium for amplifying laser pulses generated by the laser source and a loss modulator, wherein the loss modulator is arranged and connected such that said modulator modulates the amplification of the laser pulses by the laser medium by loss generation so that the retrievable laser pulses are provided with a predefined pulse time and/or pulse energy. Before an amplification process for one of the laser pulses, the current amplification of the laser medium is determined and the loss generation is controlled by the loss modulator depending on the current amplification of the laser medium.
US08582612B2 Optical amplifier for microwave bursts
The various laser architectures described herein provide increased gain of optical energy as well as compensation of optical phase distortions in a thin disk gain medium. An optical amplifier presented herein provides for scalable high energy extraction and gains based on a number of passes of the signal beam through a gain medium. Multiple, spatially separate, optical paths may also be passed through the same gain region to provide gain clearing by splitting off a small percentage of an output pulse and sending it back through the amplifier along a slightly different path. By clearing out the residual gain, uniform signal amplitudes can be obtained.
US08582607B2 Geographically-diverse redundant servers over optical connections with managed path differential delay
The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for geographically-diverse redundant servers and the like interconnected via wavelength division multiplexed (WDM) systems with managed path differential delay of the WDM systems. The present disclosure provides transport systems and methods incorporating absolute time references, such as global positioning system (GPS) time references and/or the like, and selective buildout delays, such as first-in, first-out (FIFO) buildout delays and/or the like. In one exemplary embodiment, the transport systems and methods of the present invention are used in conjunction with the International Business Machine Corporation (IBM) Geographically-Dispersed Parallel Sysplex (GDPS) integrated, automated application and data availability solution to meet and/or exceed the associated 10 microseconds transmit/receive path differential delay requirement. Other comparable uses are also contemplated herein, as will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art.
US08582604B2 Uniquely decodable codes and decoder for overloaded synchronous CDMA systems
A recursive method for constructing uniquely decodable codes for overloaded synchronous CDMA systems, where large signature codes with growing overloading factors are reconstructed from the small ones. A class of uniquely decodable signature matrices (or encoders) for overloaded synchronous CDMA are also devised. A decoder for synchronous CDMA systems to extract the user data by a number of comparisons with respect to some predefined thresholds.
US08582603B2 Method and apparatus for configuring protocol header in wireless communication system
Provided are a method of configuring a protocol header in a wireless communication system, and a communication apparatus and method using the protocol header configuration method. The protocol header may include a fixed length physical layer (PHY) header containing information associated with the number of Media Access Control (MAC) service data units, a variable length PHY header containing information associated with a segment constituting a payload, a MAC header containing information associated with the MAC service data units, and a Header Check Sequence (HCS) checking an error regarding a combination of the fixed length PHY header, the variable length PHY header, and the MAC header.
US08582601B2 Terminal access method and terminal
The present invention discloses a terminal access method and a terminal, wherein the method comprises: calculating a length of an access message body of an access message (201); constructing an access time-slot according to a configured length of an access message prefix and the length of the access message body (202); transmitting the access message prefix to a base station when the access time-slot is aligned (203); and transmitting the access message body to the base station (204). The present invention shortens the access time of the terminal, improves the access rate of the terminal and the utilization ratio of the access channel, increases the access capability of the system, and reduces the collision probability of access messages.
US08582592B2 Wireless resource allocation methods and apparatus
Methods and apparatus for assigning and using resources corresponding to discontinuous portions of bandwidth are described. A single assignment may be used to assign multiple disjoint portions of bandwidth to be used by a wireless terminal, e.g., at the same time, as an uplink or downlink band. Different portions of bandwidth allocated to a terminal may have different numbers and/or locations of guard subcarriers with relevant guard subcarrier information being communicated to the wireless terminal in a broadcast signal or being determined from stored information. The disjoint portions of bandwidth allocated for use to a terminal may be separated by a carrier band, e.g., 1.25 MHz or more, which is not available for use, e.g., because it is owned by another service provider. Some embodiments are implemented using OFDM signals wherein a wireless terminal may generate or receive an OFDM symbol including subcarriers, e.g., tones corresponding to the different discontinuous portions but not the bandwidth separating the discontinuous portions.
US08582589B2 Use of wireless circuit-switched connections for transferring information requiring real-time operation of packet-switched multimedia services
A system includes a terminal, a wireless access network, a multimedia core network and a network device, which connects the wireless access network to the multimedia core network, expanded location updating to the registration procedure of the multimedia core network, and performs double registration of the user to the multimedia core network. The terminal performs expanded location updating relaying the registration point identity of the multimedia core network, the user's phone number and the private user identity to the network device in connection with normal location updating signaling. In the double registration performed by the network device, two addresses are registered for the user of the terminal, one of which is associated with the domain name of the terminal in question or a numeric IP address, and the other to a domain name of the network device or a numeric IP address.
US08582583B2 Multiple-processor wireless mobile communication device
A wireless mobile communication device includes a first processor configured to execute a software application and a second processor configured to manage wireless communication over a wireless network. The processors are located in the same communication device and configured for one of the processors to send data to the other processor under a protocol. In accordance with this protocol, if the sending processor does not receive a receipt acknowledgement for the sent data from the other processor before the end of a resend time period measured from when the data was sent, then the sending processor resends the data to the other processor after the end of the resend time period. However, the sending processor does receive the acknowledgement before the end of the resend time period, then the sending processor does not resend the data to the other processor.
US08582582B2 In-band control plane and management functionality in optical level one virtual private networks
A method performed by an optical node, operating as a first network edge device of an optical layer one virtual private network (L1VPN), includes generating, by a first module of the optical node, a first optical data frame, where the first optical data frame includes an L1VPN overhead, and where the L1VPN overhead includes a control plane communication field; generating, by a second module of the optical node, a first control plane message for a second network edge device of the optical L1VPN, where the second network edge device is connected to the first network edge device across a provider network via an optical L1VPN link; incorporating, by the first module, the first control plane message into the control plane communication field of the first optical data frame; and transmitting, by the first module, the first optical data frame to the second network edge device via the optical L1VPN link.
US08582580B2 System and method to provide multiple private networks using PBB/TE
A system and method are supplied to provide multiple private networks. The system can include a Provider Backbone Bridge Traffic Engineering (PBB/TE) interface or interfaces configured to receive a plurality of data stream types each associated with an Instance Service Identifier (I-SID) from a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) or public carrier Ethernet. A plurality of local area network (LAN) ports can be configured to communicate data to a plurality of LANs. A switching process is provided between the PBB/TE interface and the LAN ports. The switching process can be configured to bind individual data stream types from subdivided data streams each represented by an I-SID to each of the respective LAN ports. In addition, the switching process can communicate packets between the PBB/TE interface and the bound LAN ports
US08582579B2 Priority packet processing
A network node in a vehicular network processes packets based on a prioritization scheme. The prioritization scheme uses packet type, priority, source, destination, or other information to determine a priority of the packets. Packets can be stored in one of multiple queues organized according to packet type, or other criteria. In some cases, only one queue is used. The packets are time stamped when put into a queue, and a time to live is calculated based on the timestamp. The time to live, as well as other factors such as packet type, packet priority, packet source, and packet destination can be used to adjust a packet's priority within the queue. Packets are transmitted from the queues in priority order. In some cases, the network node can identify a top-priority packet, and transmit the top priority packet without first storing the packet in the queue.
US08582565B1 System for streaming audio to a mobile device using voice over internet protocol
This disclosure describes embodiments of systems and methods that use protocols and techniques that can stream audio from a video device to a separate device while reducing or eliminate audio/video synchronization errors. In some embodiments, these systems and methods use Voice over IP (VoIP) technology to stream audio to mobile devices with low latency, resulting in little or no user-perceivable delay between the audio stream and corresponding video presentation. As a result, users can enjoy both the audio and video of any video display in an establishment. In addition, the systems and methods described herein may be implemented in the home or other locations to allow viewers who may be hard of hearing to listen to audio clearly via headphones.
US08582550B2 Bounded power-save-polling (BPS)
In accordance with at least some embodiments, a system comprises an access point and a station in communication with the access point. The station has at least two network technology subsystems subject to coexistence interference. The station selectively implements bounded Power Save (PS)-Polling (BPS) logic to handle communications between the station and the access point. The BPS logic operates to confine PS-Poll transmissions starts to one of two separate windows during a medium grant duration of the station.
US08582548B2 Frequency division multiple access schemes for wireless communication
Techniques for transmitting data using single-carrier frequency division multiple access (SC-FDMA) multiplexing schemes are described. In one aspect, data is sent on sets of adjacent subbands that are offset from one another to achieve frequency diversity. A terminal may be assigned a set of N adjacent subbands that is offset by less than N (e.g., N/2) subbands from another set of N adjacent subbands assigned to another terminal and would then observe interference on only subbands that overlap. In another aspect, a multi-carrier transmission symbol is generated with multi-carrier SC-FDMA. Multiple waveforms carrying modulation symbols in the time domain on multiple sets of subbands are generated. The multiple waveforms are pre-processed (e.g., cyclically delayed by different amounts) to obtain pre-processed waveforms, which are combined (e.g., added) to obtain a composite waveform. A cyclic prefix is appended to the composite waveform to generate the multi-carrier transmission symbol.
US08582547B2 High frequency circuit, high frequency component and communication device
An inventive high frequency circuit includes a switch circuit (SPDT1), connected to an antenna terminal (Ant1), using a field-effect transistor for switching between a connection with first to third transmitting terminals (Tx1-1, Tx2-1, Tx3-1) and a connection with first to third receiving terminals (Rx1-1, Rx2-1, Rx3-1); a transmitting-side triplexer (Trip1) for branching a transmitting path connected to the switch circuit into transmitting paths of first to third frequency bands; and a receiving-side triplexer (Trip2) for branching a receiving path connected to the switch circuit into receiving paths of the first to third frequency bands. The switch circuit can be formed as an IC to downsize the circuit. For example, in constructing the high frequency circuit with a laminated module using a ceramic laminated substrate or the like, particularly when the number of triplexers occupying a large space is large, the switch circuit is formed as an IC and mounted on the laminated body, whereby the whole structure can be downsized.
US08582543B2 Wireless communication device and access point connection method
A wireless communication device is quickly connectable to an access point of a destination service area without wasting power when the wireless communication device moves from a service area to a different one. When a state change detector of the wireless communication device detects that the received radio field intensity of the radio wave from the connected access point lowers to a threshold or less, a service area information acquirer acquires information on the service area where the wireless communication device is present and information on a neighboring service area. A profile information acquirer acquires profile information corresponding to the service area information. A priority order setter sets the order of priority to the acquired profile information in such a way that the access point of a neighboring service area neighboring to the service area formed by the connected access point is precedingly connected. According to the profile information to which orders of priority are set, a request for connection to the access point is made.
US08582532B2 Predictive roaming between subnets
A network device of a subnet determines predictive roaming information for a wireless client. Predictive roaming information can identify the wireless client and a home network subnet of the wireless client. The network device provides predictive roaming information associated with a wireless client to neighboring subnets. Neighboring subnets store received predictive roaming information, and use the predictive roaming information if the wireless client roams to them.
US08582529B2 Resource management for mobility between different wireless communications architectures
A method of and apparatus for handover between a 3GPP based network and a non-3GPP network is disclosed where a policy update to a new gateway is requested. A confirmation of the policy update is sent from the policy and charging rules function (PCRF) to the 3GPP packet data network gateway (PDN GW). The new gateway also confirms the policy update to the currently serving gateway. The tunnel endpoints and radio resources are released between the PDN GW and the evolved Packet Data Gateway (ePDG), thereby freeing the resources previously used by the wireless transmit/receive unit (WTRU). A release acknowledgement is sent from the serving gateway to the PCRF confirming the policy update process is complete. The method may be used for handover between 3GPP and non-3GPP networks and vice versa. The method and apparatus may be practiced over the S2b or S2c interfaces.
US08582528B2 Apparatus for managing media independent handover and method using the same
A method and apparatus for managing a Media Independent Handover (MIH) service is provided. The MIH service management method includes setting state information of a Media Independent Handover Function (MIHF), and managing MIH services based on the set state information of the MIHF.
US08582520B2 Method and apparatus for wideband conferencing
A method and apparatus for wideband voice and optional data conferencing over a telecommunications network channel between at least two wideband communications devices. An exemplary method comprises establishing an audio link, verifying wideband capability between the at least two wideband communications devices, training modems of the at least two wideband communications device to line conditions, and adjusting the telecommunications connection line conditions between the communications devices. Once a wideband connection has been established, audio and data may be simultaneously exchanged.
US08582510B2 Method and apparatus for handling random access channel responses
A method and apparatus for supporting a random access using a random access channel (RACH) are disclosed. Each of a plurality of wireless transmit/receive units (WTRUs) sends a random access request to a base station on an uplink RACH preamble. A RACH Response, sent by the base station, is received by each WTRU. A control signal portion of the RACH Response indicates the location of the RACH Response message portion. The RACH Response control signal comprises multiple control channel elements (CCE), where each WTRU is allocated a respective CCE to provide its unique RACH Response control signal. The WTRU is configured to locate its intended CCE from among the multiple CCEs sent by the base station.
US08582506B2 Method of transmitting and receiving HARQ feedback, and mobile station and base station apparatus using the same method
A method for transmitting and receiving a hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) feedback, and a mobile station and a base station using the same are disclosed. A method for allowing a mobile station to transmit a HARQ feedback in a wireless communication system includes receiving two downlink bursts or one downlink burst including two codewords from a base station, and transmitting an ACK/NACK feedback corresponding to either each downlink burst of the received two downlink bursts or each codeword of one downlink burst including the two codewords to the base station. An orthogonal sequence is applied to the ACK/NACK feedback of the mobile station so that the resultant ACK/NACK feedback is transmitted via a first HARQ feedback channel (HFBCH) included in a single HARQ mini tile (HMT).
US08582496B2 Channel-occupancy efficient, low power wireless networking
An apparatus and method are provided for efficiently sharing a single wireless channel and for providing improved power saving. Automatic beacon “sliding” establishes a round-robin contention-free channel schedule among multiple IBSSs. Entering an idle state immediately following communication after a beacon saves power. Further power savings occur when presumptions of pending traffic may be made.
US08582490B2 Method for determining placement of internet taps in wireless neighborhood networks
Disclosed is a method for determining the placement of ITAPs in wireless neighborhood networks. The method disclosed provides for efficient integration of multi-hop wireless networks with the Internet by placing ITAPs at strategic locations. Initially the method provides for the formulation of the ITAP placement problem under three wireless models. For each model, methods are developed to efficiently place ITAPs in the networks. The methods aim to minimize the number of required ITAPs while guaranteeing users' bandwidth requirements. Next, a fault tolerance version of the placement method is presented that provides bandwidth guarantees in the presence of failures. Finally the methods are extended to take into account variable traffic demands by developing an approximation algorithm to simultaneously optimize ITAP placement based on demands over multiple periods.
US08582485B2 Scheduled clear to send (CTS) for multiple user, multiple access, and/or MIMO wireless communications
Scheduled clear to send (CTS) for multiple user, multiple access, and/or MIMO wireless communications. Before sending transmissions, a request to send (RTS)/clear to send (CTS) exchange takes place between a transmitting wireless communication device and multiple receiving wireless communication devices may take place therein. The transmitting wireless communication device (e.g., an AP) may generate and transmit a multi-user request to send (mRTS) frame to a number of receiving wireless communication devices (e.g., STAs). The mRTS frame can include information and instructions therein to direct the manner by which all or a subset of the receiving wireless communication devices are to provide CTS responses back to the transmitting wireless communication device. The mRTS frame may be an OFDMA frame, a MU-MIMO frame, or a combination thereof. The CTS responses may be received in accordance with any one or combination of OFDM signaling, OFDMA signaling, and MU-MIMO signaling.
US08582475B1 System and method for blended PSTN and computer network customer support interactions
The present disclosure includes a system and method for blended telephone network and computer network customer support interactions. The system may include a web server, one or more controllers, a telephone exchange, a monitoring server, and one or more client devices. The method may include receiving a multimedia support request, establishing a multimedia communications session, instructing a telephony application associated with the multimedia communications session to place a telephone call, routing and connecting the telephone call to an available endpoint, identifying the available endpoint when the telephone call is connected to the available endpoint, and transmitting an invitation to participate in the multimedia communications session to the available endpoint.
US08582469B2 Peer-to-peer network including routing protocol enhancement
Methods, apparatuses and systems that enhance the operation of peer-to-peer networks with routing protocols. In a particular implementation, peer nodes of a peer-to-peer network use an enterprise routing protocol to construct p2p network routing tables that support identification of peer nodes implementing a distributed hash table. This allows each peer node on the p2p network to know about every other node, and to learn, within IP network routing convergence times, of the arrival, departure, and failure of peer nodes in the p2p network. It also allows for single hop queries to other peer nodes.
US08582448B2 Method and apparatus for power throttling of highspeed multi-lane serial links
A method for managing the power consumption of an information handling system including a multi-lane serial link having a lane setting that identifies the number of active lanes in the multi-lane serial link. The method may include determining a number of lanes required for the multi-lane serial link based on one or more I/O devices connected to the information handling system, triggering a reduction of the lane setting of the multi-lane serial link if the lane setting of the multi-lane serial link is greater than the determined number of lanes required, and automatically reducing power to the multi-lane serial link in response to the reduction of the lane setting.
US08582444B2 Method for detecting hardware faults by determining a ratio of released connections
The present invention provides a method of detecting a faulty network element in a network, the network comprising at least a plurality of first network elements having a first network element type, and at least a plurality of second network elements having a second network element type. The method comprises the steps of: a) selecting one of the plurality of first network elements and one of the plurality of second network elements; b) attempting to set up a connection between said selected first network element and said selected second network element; c) repeating steps a) and b) for further selected first and second network elements; d) for each of the plurality of first network elements and for each of the plurality of second network elements, counting a number of connections that are released as the result of a fault; and e) for a particular one of the first or second network elements, on the basis of said number of connections that are released in said particular network element as a result of a fault, determining whether said particular network element is faulty.
US08582441B2 Data transmission method for HSDPA
In the data transmission method of an HSDPA system according to the present invention, a transmitter transmits Data Blocks each composed of one or more data units originated from a same logical channel, and a receiver receives the Data Block through a HS-DSCH and distributes the Data Block to a predetermined reordering buffer. Since each Data Block is composed of the MAC-d PDUs originated from the same logical channel, it is possible to monitor the in-sequence delivery of the data units, resulting in reduction of undesirable queuing delay caused by logical channel multiplexing.
US08582439B1 Buffer overflow prevention for network devices
A network device including a buffer and a processor. The buffer is configured to store a packet received by the network device. The buffer has a predetermined size. The packet includes a first transmit window size for a first communication session handled by the network device. The processor is configured to modify the first transmit window size based on i) the predetermined size of the buffer, and ii) a second transmit window size for a second communication session handled by the network device. The second communication session is different than the first communication session.
US08582429B2 Resource allocation and signalings for group scheduling in wireless communications
Method and apparatus for resource allocation formatting, signaling, and procedures in wireless communications, the method reducing signal overhead. Wireless transmit/receive units are divided into one or more semi-static groups. Resource allocation takes place to a group and the resource sets are signaled to an individual unit needing the resources. The method is applied to resource allocation for services, including both real time and non real time services.
US08582426B2 Reception of redundant and non-redundant frames
The present disclosure relates to highly available communication networks, e.g., for industrial or utility applications such as substation automation. The devices are connected to two redundant lines through two independent transceivers and bus controllers, i.e. the physical layer and the link layer of the corresponding protocol stack is duplicated. For seamless operation, a sender sends frames simultaneously over both lines and a receiver accepts whichever frame of a pair comes first and ignores the late frame. An exemplary method is disclosed for discarding duplicate frames at the link layer without considering the higher protocol layers, based on a counter inserted in the frame and an algorithm for rejection, with a corresponding means to detect which frames operate according to the redundancy protocol.
US08582423B2 Multi-chassis inter-process communication
Aggregation Switches connected via a virtual fabric link (VFL) are each active and able to communicate via an inter-process communication (IPC) using an IPC Virtual Local Area Network (IPC VLAN). A sub-set of Customer-facing ports (CFPs) of each Aggregation Switch are coupled to the VFL and assigned to the IPC VLAN to enable communication therebetween.
US08582422B2 Access point configuration propagation
A method of access point configuration propagation includes receiving, at a controller, a connectivity request from a number of access points; with a master controller, creating a configuration for the access points; and sending configuration data based on the created configuration to a number of slave controllers. A master controller for propagating access point configurations within a wireless network system includes a processor that creates a configuration for each of a number of access points requesting connectivity within the wireless network system, and a data storage device that stores configuration data based on the created configuration in an access point configuration table.
US08582418B2 Packet mode auto-detection in multi-mode wireless communication system, signal field transmission for the packet mode auto-detection, and gain control based on the packet mode
A method for automatically detecting a packet mode in a wireless communication system supporting a multiple transmission mode includes: acquiring at least one of data rate information, packet length information and channel bandwidth information from a transmitted frame; and determining the packet mode on the basis of the phase rotation check result of a symbol transmitted after a signal field signal and at least one of the data rate information, the packet length information and the channel bandwidth information acquired from the transmitted frame.
US08582416B2 Heat-assisted magnetic recording medium and magnetic recording and reading apparatus
The heat-assisted magnetic recording medium of the present invention has a substrate, an under layer formed on the substrate, and a magnetic layer formed on the under layer, in which the magnetic layer includes an alloy having a L10 structure as a principle component, and the under layer is constituted by a first under layer made of an amorphous alloy or an alloy having a microcrystalline structure, a second under layer made of Cr or an alloy which contains Cr as a principle component and has a BCC structure, a third under layer made of a metal or an alloy having a BCC structure with a lattice constant of 2.98 Å or more, and a fourth under layer made of MgO.
US08582404B2 Recording medium, reproduction and recording method, reproduction and recording device
Obtain an expanded address without altering the bit number of an address which is embedded in a wobble. Generate a virtual bit which is not recorded on a disc, and which is expressed by the disparity from the rules and the presence or absence of information embedded in part or all of the wobble address.
US08582397B2 Creating, directing and steering regions of intensity of wave propagation in inhomogeneous media
Known time reversal methods consist of three steps which may be listed as (i) the recording of signals and (ii) the time reversing of the recorded signals, and (iii) the transmission of the time-reversed signals. The first and third steps of the above process are retained, but the second step is modified. The empirical signal is transformed to fit mathematical forms taught by the mathematics of singularity and catastrophe theory that ensure a structural stability to the waveforms that will be received, when the time reversed signals are transmitted again. This structural stability ensures robustness of the waveform and the predominant direction of the flux of energy of the waveform, and improves controllability of the location of the high magnitude regions of the energy flux despite limited knowledge of the exact properties of the medium. Applications to drug delivery in the brain, and geophysical applications are envisaged.
US08582393B2 Method and apparatus for controlling temperature of an acoustic transducer
Embodiments relate to monitoring the temperature of a transducer and controlling the temperature as a function of adjusting one or more characteristics of the transducer.
US08582386B2 Internal voltage generator and semiconductor memory device including the same
A semiconductor device including an internal voltage generator circuit that provides an internal voltage having a different level depending on the operation speed is provided. The semiconductor device includes an internal voltage generator circuit configured to receive operation speed information to generate an internal voltage having a different level depending on the operation speed; and an internal circuit operated using the internal voltage.
US08582381B2 Temperature based compensation during verify operations for non-volatile storage
A non-volatile storage system that performs programming and reading processes. The programming process includes coarse/fine programming and verify operations. Programming is verified by testing for two different threshold voltage levels while applying the same voltage level to the control gate of a memory cell by testing for current levels through the memory cells and adjusting the current levels tested for based on current temperature such that the difference between the two effective tested threshold voltage levels remains constant over temperature variation.
US08582379B2 Single ended sensing scheme for memory
A memory having a single-ended sensing scheme includes a bit line, a memory cell coupled to the bit line, and a precharge circuit. The precharge circuit is configured to precharge the bit line to a precharge voltage between a power supply voltage and a ground.
US08582378B1 Threshold voltage measurement device
A threshold voltage measurement device is disclosed. The device is coupled to a 6T SRAM. The SRAM comprises two inverters each coupled to a FET. Power terminals of one inverter are in a floating state; the drain and source of the FET coupled to the inverter are short-circuited. Two voltage selectors, a resistor, an amplifier and the SRAM are connected in a negative feedback way. Different bias voltages are applied to the SRAM for measuring threshold voltages of two FETs of the other inverter and the FET coupled to the other inverter. The present invention uses a single circuit to measure the threshold voltages of the three FETs without changing the physical structure of the SRAM. Thereby is accelerated the measurement and decreased the cost of the fabrication process and measurement instruments.
US08582376B2 Timing adjustment circuit for a memory interface and method of adjusting timing for memory interface
According to one embodiment, a timing adjustment circuit for a memory interface is presented. The circuit is provided with a gate circuit, an original gate signal generation circuit, a high impedance prevention unit, an impedance control unit and a gate leveling circuit. The gate circuit performs gating of a data strobe signal outputted from a memory. The original gate signal generation circuit generates an original gate signal based on information of a read latency and a burst length. The high impedance prevention unit to prevent the data strobe signal from being in a high impedance state. The impedance control unit controls execution and release of operation of the high impedance prevention unit. The gate leveling circuit outputs a timing adjusted gate signal to the gate circuit based on the original gate signal and the data strobe signal.
US08582366B2 Semiconductor device using charge pump circuit
A semiconductor device including a plurality of capacitance units connected in parallel between a first voltage and a second voltage. Each of the plurality of capacitance units includes: a capacitance element connected with the first voltage; and a capacitance disconnecting circuit connected between the second voltage and the capacitance element. The capacitance disconnecting circuit includes a non-volatile memory cell with a threshold voltage changed based on a change of a leakage current which flows from the capacitance element, and blocks off the leakage current based on a rise of the threshold voltage of the non-volatile memory cell when the leakage current exceeds a predetermined value.
US08582360B2 Read method for nonvolatile memory device, and data storage system using the same
Provided is a method for reading data from a nonvolatile memory device. In the method, a read method includes a first read step including reading a first memory cell of the nonvolatile memory device by applying a first set of read voltages to the first memory cell. The read method further includes a second read step including reading the first memory cell by applying a second set of read voltages and none of the voltages in the first set to the first memory cell when it is determined that the first read step results in an error and cannot be corrected with error correction. The second read step is performed by using data resulting from the first read step.
US08582354B1 Method and apparatus for testing a resistive memory element
Methods and apparatus for testing a resistive memory element are provided. In an example, an initial test resistor in a resistance network coupled to a first input of a sense amplifier is selected, where the resistive memory element is coupled to a second input of the sense amplifier and an output of the sense amplifier is measured. Another test resistor is selected based on the output of the sense amplifier and both the measuring the output step and the selecting another test resistor step are repeated until the output of the sense amplifier changes. A resistance of the resistive memory element is estimated based on the last test resistor selected, where the selected test resistors and the resistive memory element pass respective currents having substantially similar amplitudes and are coupled to respective access transistors having substantially similar properties.
US08582349B2 Semiconductor device
An object is to provide a semiconductor device which includes a memory cell capable of holding accurate data even when the data is multilevel data. The semiconductor device includes a memory cell holding data in a node to which one of a source and a drain of a transistor whose channel region is formed from an oxide semiconductor. Note that the value of off-state current (leakage current) of the transistor is extremely small. Thus, after being set to have a predetermined value, the potential of the node can be kept constant or substantially constant by turning the transistor off. In this manner, accurate data can be stored in the memory cell.
US08582345B2 Nonvolatile semiconductor memory device
A nonvolatile semiconductor memory device comprises a three-dimensional cell array block in which a plurality of cell array layers are stacked, each of the cell array layers including a plurality of first lines, a plurality of second lines configured to intersect the first lines, and a plurality of memory cells disposed at each of intersections of the first and second lines and each including a variable resistance element configured to store an electrically rewritable resistance value as data in a nonvolatile manner, and a reading control circuit for reading data from the memory cells under a condition set in respective groups to which one or more cell array layers having a common electric property of the memory cells belong.
US08582334B2 Semiconductor device, power converter and method for controlling the power converter
Disclosed is a semiconductor device which includes: a semiconductor element 200 including a first metal-insulator-semiconductor field-effect transistor 200a and a second metal-insulator-semiconductor field-effect transistor 200b which is connected in parallel with the first metal-insulator-semiconductor field-effect transistor; and a control section which controls the operation of the semiconductor element. The control section controls the semiconductor element so that in a forward direction mode, current flows in a forward direction through the first and second metal-insulator-semiconductor field-effect transistors but that in a reverse direction mode, current flows in the reverse direction through the first metal-insulator-semiconductor field-effect transistor but does not flow through the second metal-insulator-semiconductor field-effect transistor.
US08582333B2 Integration of switched capacitor networks for power delivery
Switched capacitor networks for power delivery to packaged integrated circuits. In certain embodiments, the switched capacitor network is employed in place of at least one stage of a cascaded buck converter for power delivery. In accordance with particular embodiments of the present invention, a two-stage power delivery network comprising both switched capacitor stage and a buck regulator stage deliver power to a microprocessor or other packaged integrated circuit (IC). In further embodiments, a switched capacitor stage is implemented with a series switch module comprising low voltage MOS transistors that is then integrated onto a package of at least one IC to be powered. In certain embodiments, a switched capacitor stage is implemented with capacitors formed on a motherboard, embedded into an IC package or integrated into a series switch module.
US08582330B2 High voltage and frequency distributed power system
A switching power supply transmits power between a single front end including electromagnetic interference filtering and power factor correction circuits to an output end at a high voltage and high frequency from which any desired DC voltage or waveform may be readily and directly derived with high efficiency in order to reduce size and weight of components including transformers at the output end and allow greater variety of connection wiring of reduced weight and volume to be used. The high frequency is limited at the low frequency end by the frequency at which significant power can be transferred through, for example, a ferrite core or other transformer of sufficiently low volume to accommodate closely spaced loads or power converters and at the high frequency end by the wavelength in the connection wiring such that 1/10 wavelength is greater than one thousand feet. Branches of the power distribution system which are not desired to be in use can be operated at zero power and be brought back on line within milliseconds, when needed. Power distribution among respective branches of the power distribution system can be controlled by varying the high frequency of power transmission and appropriate filtering.
US08582327B2 Method and apparatus for a control circuit responsive to an impedance coupled to a control circuit terminal
A method, in a power supply controller, of responding to an increase in current through a terminal of the power supply controller, is disclosed. The method includes regulating the terminal to a first voltage level and sensing a magnitude of a first current through the terminal while the controller is regulating the terminal to the first voltage level. The method also includes providing an initial response by the power supply controller in response to the magnitude of the first current exceeding a first threshold current level and then regulating the terminal to a second voltage level after the magnitude of the first current exceeds the first threshold current level. The magnitude of a second current through the terminal is sensed while the controller is regulating the terminal to the second voltage level and the controller determines a final response based on the magnitude of the second current.
US08582317B2 Method for manufacturing a semiconductor component and structure therefor
A semiconductor component and a method of manufacturing the semiconductor component that reduces parasitic elements. A semiconductor chip is coupled to a semiconductor chip receiving area of a support structure. The semiconductor chip has at least two power semiconductor devices. A drain contact of a first power semiconductor device is coupled to a source contact of a second power semiconductor device and the drain and source contacts of the first and second power semiconductor devices are joined to the semiconductor chip receiving area. Another semiconductor chip may be bonded to a second semiconductor chip receiving area of the support structure. An energy storage element may be coupled between the source contact of the first power semiconductor device and the drain contact of the second semiconductor device. A protective structure may be formed over the semiconductor chips and the energy storage element.
US08582316B2 Electronic device display alignment system
A display alignment system aligns an internal display device with an outer cover glass such that planes defined by both are substantially parallel. A subject electronic device includes an outer housing having a back portion and multiple mounting bosses, a transparent display cover coupled to the outer housing, a display device disposed between the back portion and the display cover, and mounting brackets coupling the display device to the mounting bosses. The exact positions of the mounting brackets are adjusted to compensate for the specific dimensions of the mounting bosses, outer housing and/or display device, which is done using a separate assembly fixture having spring-loaded and locking pins to record individual mounting boss heights. Recorded boss heights are used to position the mounting brackets on sides of the display device so that the combination thereof is customized for the recorded outer housing and mounting bosses.
US08582307B2 Wireless communication apparatus
A wireless communication apparatus in one embodiment includes a bag body and a radio frequency device. The bag body has at least a first slot, which extends to an edge of the bag body. The radio frequency device including a wireless integrated circuit chip is for radio-frequency signal transmission or receiving, and is disposed across a portion of the first slot and coupled to two connection ends of the bag body so that the bag body between the two connection ends serves as an inductance circuit. The inductance circuit of the two connection ends of the bag body is based on metallic material. An impedance of the inductance circuit is for conjugate matching with that of the radio frequency device and is determined according to a plurality of geometric parameters including: a distance from the edge to the wireless integrated circuit chip, and size of the first slot.
US08582303B2 Mounting apparatus for fan
A mounting apparatus for a fan includes a mounting frame adapted to mount the fan, a chassis, a handle, and a positioning assembly. The chassis comprises a side plate. The handle is rotatably attached to the mounting frame and defines a slot. The positioning assembly is mounted to the side plate and comprises a mounting post and two limiting boards. The mounting frame is mounted between the two limiting boards. The mounting post is located between the two limiting boards and engaged in the slot.
US08582300B2 Holding device for hard disk drive
A holding device includes a loading frame and two mounting plates. The loading frame includes a base portion for loading an HDD and a pair of sidewalls perpendicularly extending from the base portion. The sidewalls are parallel to each other. Each sidewall includes two sliding ribs substantially perpendicularly extending from a surface thereof away from the other sidewall. The two mounting plates are opposite to each other. Each mounting plate includes two guiding rails substantially perpendicularly extending from a surface thereof toward the other mounting plate. The two sliding ribs of each sidewall are configured to be slid into the two guiding rails of a corresponding mounting plate.
US08582299B1 System with movable computing devices
A system for providing computing resources includes a mounting bar and one or more computing devices supported on the mounting bar. The computing devices are coupled to the mounting bar such that the computing devices can slide along the mounting bar from one position to another while the computing devices remains in service and installed on the mounting bar.
US08582291B2 Power conversion apparatus
In a power conversion apparatus, electronic components and a cooler are integrated in a frame as an internal unit. The internal unit is fixed within a case through the frame. The frame has such a shape that the electronic components are surrounded by the frame, and includes a first wall section, and second and third wall sections extending from both sides of the first wall section. The cooler includes a coolant introduction tube and a coolant discharge tube. The coolant introduction tube and the coolant discharge tube project outward from to the frame. The first to third wall sections include a support wall section supporting at least one of the coolant introduction tube and the coolant discharge tube, and a frame wall section not supporting the coolant introduction tube and the coolant discharge tube. The thickness of the support wall section is larger than the thickness of the frame wall section.
US08582289B2 Docking station and electronic device
A docking station includes a housing, and a connecting mechanism rotatably received in the housing. The connecting mechanism includes an interface. The connecting mechanism rotates from a first position exposed out of the housing to a second position hidden in the housing. When the connecting mechanism rotates to the first position, the interface is exposed out of the housing. When the connecting mechanism rotates to the second position, the interface is hidden in the housing.
US08582288B2 Retaining mechanism and an electronic device having the same
A retaining mechanism, used for retaining an electronic component including a support bracket having an end part formed with an engaging hole, includes a mounting block having a mounting hole for receiving the end part of the support bracket, and a through hole communicating with the mounting hole. A seat body covers the mounting block, and has a bolt hole communicating with and disposed above the through hole, and a limiting slot communicating with one side of the bolt hole. A locking bolt includes a shank disposed slidably in the bolt hole, and a stopper block connected transversely to the bottom portion and slidable upward and downward along the limiting slot. The shank has a bottom portion adapted to engage releasably the engaging hole when the through hole is aligned with the engaging hole.
US08582285B2 Mounting apparatus for expansion card
A mounting apparatus for an expansion card includes a chassis, a mounting frame, a hull, and a mounting member. The mounting frame is secured to the chassis and is adapted to secure a first end of an expansion card. The hull is secured to the chassis, and is adapted to maintain a second end of the expansion card opposite to the first end. The mounting member is rotatably attached to the hull, and comprises two limiting boards. The mounting member is rotatable between a lock position and an open position. In the lock position, the mounting member abuts the top surface of the expansion card. In the open position, the mounting member disengages from the expansion card.
US08582283B2 Fixing mechanism for fixing a display device
A fixing mechanism for fixing a display device includes a display casing whereon a hole is formed, a shielding wall connected to a side of the display casing, and a bracket wedged inside the shielding wall in a detachable manner and installed on the side of the display casing. An opening is formed on the bracket. The fixing mechanism further includes a screwing component. An end of the screwing component passes through the hole on the display casing and is screwed inside the opening on the bracket. The other end of the screwing component is installed inside a wall mount. The shielding wall is for shielding the end of the screwing component.
US08582282B2 Display apparatus
Disclosed with are a display apparatus. The apparatus includes a display module; a front panel disposed on a front of the display module; a first supporting member including a plurality of surfaces formed in directions perpendicular to each other, a first surface of the plurality of surfaces being fixed to the front panel and a second surface being fixed to the display module; and a bezel formed on an outer edge region of the display apparatus to surround a edge of the front panel.
US08582273B2 Surge absorbing circuit and electric device using the same
A surge absorbing circuit capable of absorbing surge stably without affecting a signal on a signal line even in the case of a high frequency signal, and an electronic device using the surge absorbing circuit. The surge absorbing circuit includes at least one surge suppression circuit, the at least one surge suppression circuit including, with respect to the same signal line at least: a power supply; a diode connected between the signal line and the power supply; and a power supply line for connecting the diode and the power supply to each other. In each of the at least one surge suppression circuit, a direction of the diode and a voltage of the power supply with respect to the signal line are determined so that the diode is reversely biased.
US08582269B2 Overcurrent protection apparatus for secondary battery, protection method and battery pack
An overcurrent protection apparatus for a secondary battery includes a main relay, an auxiliary relay connected in parallel with the main relay, a current limiting resistor connected in series with the auxiliary relay and a controller for detecting an overcurrent and protect the battery module. The controller turns on the main relay and turns off the auxiliary relay in a normal state where the battery module is recharged by the generator. When the overcurrent is detected, the controller turns on the auxiliary relay and turn off the main relay so that a limited current flows through the current limiting resistor.
US08582266B2 Current-monitoring apparatus
A local area networking apparatus comprises a power stage for connecting to a network cable for carrying carry power and data. The power stage comprises a main current flow path which includes a switch comprising at least one transistor positioned in the main current flow path and a current monitoring apparatus for monitoring current flow in the main current flow path, and wherein the current monitoring apparatus comprises a sensor which is not placed in series with the main current flow path. The current monitoring apparatus can comprise a current mirroring stage which is arranged to mirror current flowing in the main current flow path to a monitoring current flow path. The switch can be implemented as a set of switches.
US08582263B2 Digitally controlled AC protection and attenuation circuit
A protection and attenuation circuit for sensitive AC loads is described. The circuit provides AC power protection and attenuation utilizing high-efficiency switch-mode techniques to attenuate an AC power signal by incorporating a bidirectional, transistorized switch driven from a pulse width modulation signal, PWM. The circuit monitors characteristics of the AC power signal driving a known load and characteristics of the load or other elements and determines the duty cycle of the pulse width modulated signal, PWM, based upon the duration and amplitude of the over-voltage, over-current, over-limit or other event.
US08582255B2 Core-saturated superconductive fault current limiter and control method of the fault current limiter
A core-saturated superconductive fault current limiter and a control method of the fault current limiter. The fault current limiter includes a superconductive magnet (2), a core (4), an AC winding (5), a cryostat system, a monitor system (7) and a DC control system (6). The output of the DC control system (6) is connected to the two terminals of the superconductive magnet (2). The DC control system (6) is also connected to the monitor system (7). The core (4) has an unequal section core structure. The control method includes: controlling the current which is flowing through the superconductive magnet (2) for limiting the fault current in the power net (1) in the case of a short circuit fault event.
US08582254B2 Switching array having circuitry to adjust a temporal distribution of a gating signal applied to the array
A Micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) switching array includes circuitry, which may be coupled to a gate line of the array to adjust a temporal distribution of a gating signal applied to a plurality of MEMS switches that make up the switching array. The temporal distribution may be shaped to reduce a voltage surge that can develop in the switches during switching of electrical current. This voltage surge reduction is conducive to improving the durability of the array.
US08582251B2 Magnetic sensor with non-rectangular geometry
Various embodiments generally relate to a magnetic sensor, and more specifically to a magnetoresistive read head sensor. In one such exemplary embodiment, a magnetic sensor comprises a sensor stack and magnetic bias elements positioned adjacent opposite sides of the sensor stack. At least one of the bias elements has a non-rectangular shape, such as substantially trapezoidal or parallelogram shapes having non-perpendicular corners.
US08582248B2 Magnetoresistive sensor, including non-magnetic conducting layer embedded in shielding layer and magnetic head, head gimbal assembly and disk drive unit with the same
A MR sensor comprises a first shielding layer, a second shielding layer, a MR element and a pair of hard magnet layers sandwiched therebetween, and a non-magnetic insulating layer formed at a side of the MR element far from an air bearing surface of a slider. The MR sensor further comprises a first non-magnetic conducting layer formed between the first shielding layer and the MR element, and the first non-magnetic conducting layer is embedded in the first shielding layer and kept separate from the ABS. The MR sensor of the invention can obtain a narrower read gap to increase the resolution power and improve the reading performance, and obtain a strong longitudinal bias field to stabilize the MR sensor so as to increase the total sensor area and, in turn, get an improved reliability and performance. The present invention also discloses a magnetic head, a HGA and a disk drive unit.
US08582246B2 Individually adjusting a position of an access head element on a head assembly
A tape storage device includes a head assembly having plural access head elements to access data on respective data tracks on a storage tape. A controller, responsive to information contained in at least one of the data tracks, is provided to individually adjust a lateral position of at least one of the access head elements independently of at least one other head element.
US08582244B2 Flexure and head suspension with flexure
A flexure has a metal base plate, an insulating layer formed on the metal base plate, a wiring pattern formed on the insulating layer, a read-write head connected to a first end of the wiring pattern, and terminals for external connection that are adjacent to each other and are connected to a second end of the wiring pattern. The flexure includes a hole formed through the insulating layer in the vicinity of respective one of the adjacent terminals and an exposed part being a part of the metal base plate that is exposed through the hole to the terminals. A distance between the respective one of the adjacent terminals and the exposed part exposed through the hole in the vicinity thereof is shorter than a distance between the adjacent terminals.
US08582243B2 Suspension with supporting pieces, head gimbal assembly and disk drive unit with the same
A suspension for a HGA comprises a flexure having a suspension tongue arranged for supporting a slider, which comprising a stainless steel layer and a dielectric layer formed thereon. The dielectric layer has a top surface and bottom surface, a plurality of bonding pads are formed on the top surface at a leading portion of the suspension tongue and arranged for connecting with the slider, and at least two separate supporting pieces are formed on the bottom surface and located at a corresponding position with the bonding pads, thereby releasing stress generated on the bonding pads. The invention also discloses a HGA and a disk drive unit with the same. The invention can release the stress generated on the bonding pads of the suspension, reduce the temperature impact to the suspension, and in turn, reduce thermal crown change of the slider, thereby improving the reading and writing performance.
US08582237B2 Selectively magnetic write gap insert
A selectively magnetic insert that is capable of enhancing magnetic writing, such as in use as a data transducing head. In accordance with various embodiments, a write pole is in contact with a selectively magnetic insert that decouples the write pole from at least one adjacent shield in response a powered operation.
US08582235B2 Magnetic write head with structured trailing pole
The invention is directed to a magnetic write head configured for writing to a magnetic medium, such as, a magnetic tape along a longitudinal direction x. The magnetic write head includes a trailing pole with a first face of height r1; a leading pole with a second face, each of the first face and second face being arranged to face the magnetic medium in operation; and a magnetic gap of height g between the trailing pole and the leading pole. The height r1 and the height g are such that r1≦1.0 g and each of the height g and the height r1 is measured parallel to said longitudinal direction x.
US08582230B2 Hard disk drive, method for estimating back electromotive force, and method for controlling velocity of head
According to one embodiment, a hard disk drive includes a head, a voice coil motor, a driving circuit, an identification unit, a storage unit, and an estimation unit. The head is configured to perform write/read of information to a storage medium. The voice coil motor is configured to move the head. The driving circuit is configured to drive the voice coil motor, based on a command signal. The identification unit is configured to identify at least one parameter of a discrete-time model. The discrete-time model represents a transfer function from the command signal to a voltage drop quantity by an inductance of a coil of the voice coil motor. The storage unit is configured to store the parameter. The estimation unit is configured to estimate a back electromotive force of the coil, based on the discrete-time model including the parameter.
US08582229B1 Pushpin assembly
A pushpin assembly for a spiral track writer is provided. The pushpin assembly includes a body, a bushing, and a pushpin. The body mounts on a pushpin arm of a spiral track writer. A cavity is defined in the body and extends between a first opening and a second opening of the body. The bushing slide fits within the cavity such that an inner wall of the cavity surrounds the bushing. The bushing surrounds a shaft portion of the pushpin. A tip portion of the pushpin extends through the first opening and engages an actuator arm of a headstack assembly of a hard disk drive for writing spiral tracks onto a media disk. A longitudinal force greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold exerted on the tip portion results in the bushing and the pushpin being displaced in a longitudinal direction relative to the body.
US08582227B2 Lowest power mode for a mobile drive
A hard disk drive enters a low power mode to reduce power consumption. To maintain communication with a host device, a communication interface remains energized along with a circuit portion storing configuration data for the communication interface. The hard disk drive may have a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface to provide two-way communication to external data processing equipment. The hard disk drive may have a system on a chip (SoC) core to issue the low power mode entry command. During the low power mode, circuitry for external communication is kept in an active state.
US08582224B1 System and method for off-track write prevention and data recovery in multiple head optical tape drives
In an optical tape drive having optical heads for writing data in tracks on an optical tape, each track having an off-track threshold, a system and method are disclosed for off-track write prevention. The system includes multiple actuators, each actuator configured to control a position of an associated optical heads. The system also includes a controller configured to determine a position of each of the optical heads relative to an associated track on the optical tape and to prevent, in response to an event causing an optical heads to have a position outside the off-track threshold of the associated track, only that optical head from writing data to the optical tape and to buffer a stream of data for that optical head for later processing.
US08582218B2 Endoscope for oblique viewing
An endoscope for oblique viewing including an image pickup device, a front lens group having a positive refractive power, a prism disposed on the CCD side of the front lens group, and a rear lens group disposed on the CCD side of the prism and having a positive refractive power.
US08582208B2 Method and apparatus for manufacturing a security document comprising a lenticular array and blurred pixel tracks
A method of manufacturing a display device, in particular a security document, includes providing m images of an object, wherein m is at least equal to 2, dividing each image into n sets adjacent arrays (l1,1, l1,2 . . . l1,n), . . . , (lm1, lm2, . . . lmn) of picture elements, spaced at a mutual distance δ, applying the images in an interlaced manner on an image layer in sets of interlaced arrays (l11, l21 . . . lm1), . . . , (l1n, l2n . . . lmn) below a lens structure having line-shaped lens elements over the image layer with one line shaped lens element overlying a corresponding set of adjacent arrays, wherein upon applying the arrays onto the image layer, and/or upon providing the lens elements, each array of picture elements is provided onto the image layer in an out of focus manner to form a blurred array or each array is imaged by the lens elements to form a blurred array, wherein a mutual distance of the edges of adjacent blurred arrays is smaller than the mutual distance δ.
US08582206B2 Laser-scanning virtual image display
A virtual-image projector comprises a laser configured to form a narrow beam, first and second dilation optics, first and second redirection optics each having a diffraction grating, and a controller. The first dilation optic is arranged to receive the narrow beam and to project a one-dimensionally dilated beam into the second dilation optic. The second dilation optic is arranged to receive the one-dimensionally dilated beam and project a two-dimensionally dilated beam. The first and second redirection optics are each operatively coupled to a transducer. The first redirection optic is arranged to direct the narrow beam into the first dilation optic at a first entry angle. The second redirection optic is configured to direct the one-dimensionally dilated beam into the second dilation optic at a second entry angle. The controller is configured to bias the transducers to vary the first and second entry angles.
US08582205B2 Lens barrel and optical apparatus including the same
The lens barrel has an image blur correction function for correcting an image blur, including: a movable member movable in a direction orthogonal to an optical axis while holding a lens and a driving magnet; and a fixed member for positioning the movable member in an optical axis direction and holding a driving coil and a magnetic member, in which: the driving magnet and the magnetic member constitute a driving portion for moving the movable member in the direction orthogonal to the optical axis; and in a plane orthogonal to the optical axis, a width of the magnetic member in a direction orthogonal to a direction of driving the movable member is larger than a width of the driving magnet in the direction orthogonal to the direction of driving the movable member.
US08582202B2 Observing device and method
When it is detected that a solid immersion lens comes into contact with the semiconductor device, the lens is caused to vibrate by a vibration generator unit. Next, a reflected light image from the lens is input to calculate a reflected light quantity of the reflected light image, and it is judged whether a ratio of the reflected light quantity to an incident light quantity is not greater than a threshold value. When the ratio is greater than the threshold value, it is judged that optical close contact between the lens and the semiconductor device is not achieved, and the lens is again caused to vibrate. When the ratio is not greater than the threshold value, it is judged that optical close contact between the lens and the semiconductor device is achieved, and an observed image of the semiconductor device is acquired.
US08582201B2 Inexpensive variable rep-rate source for high-energy, ultrafast lasers
System for converting relatively long pulses from rep-rate variable ultrafast optical sources to shorter, high-energy pulses suitable for sources in high-energy ultrafast lasers. Fibers with positive group velocity dispersion (GVD) and self phase modulation are advantageously employed with the optical sources. These systems take advantage of the need for higher pulse energies at lower repetition rates so that such sources can be cost effective.
US08582199B2 Electrophoretic composition, microcapsule and electrophoretic display device
Disclosed is an electrophoretic composition including a dye, a non-water-soluble dispersion medium, and charged particles, wherein the dye includes in a molecule thereof at least two color forming moieties including a first color forming moiety and a second color forming moiety, the first color forming moiety having a maximum absorption wavelength that is the shortest maximum absorption wavelength among the at least two color forming moieties, the second color forming moiety having a maximum absorption wavelength that is the longest maximum absorption wavelength among the at least two color forming moieties, a difference between the maximum absorption wavelength of the first color forming moiety and the maximum absorption wavelength of the second color forming moiety being from 50 nm to 400 nm, and the first color forming moiety and the second color forming moiety being bonded through a covalent bond.
US08582192B2 Polarizing photochromic articles
Provided are photochromic articles that include a substrate, a primer layer that includes a first photochromic compound, and a photochromic-dichroic layer over the primer layer that includes a photochromic-dichroic compound. The first photochromic compound and the photochromic-dichroic compound each are selected such that the photochromic-dichroic compound has an absorbance of less than or equal to 0.1 at the wavelength of peak absorbance of the underlying first photochromic compound. The present invention also relates to such photochromic articles that further include a topcoat layer over the photochromic-dichroic layer. The topcoat layer can include a second photochromic compound that has an absorbance of less than 0.1 at the wavelength of peak absorbance of the underlying photochromic-dichroic compound. The photochromic articles provide, for example, a combination of linear polarizing properties, and reduced percent transmittance when in a colored or darkened state, such as when exposed to actinic light.
US08582175B2 Image processing method, image processing apparatus, image processing program, and program storing medium
An image processing method causes a computer to execute calculating a reference ink use amount considering a black level of image data of an initial image as a reference level; calculating a relation between a correction value of each black level and the ink use amount from a state of using no ink to the reference level; calculating a proper correction value of the black level corresponding to a target ink use amount input by a user in the relation between each black level and the ink use amount; and generating image data of a correction image representing the initial image by the proper correction value and displaying the correction image on a display.
US08582170B2 Image forming apparatus, print control method, and storage medium for controlling user of executing gray-out print settings
An image forming apparatus may include an acquisition unit, a setting unit, and an instruction unit. The acquisition unit acquires print data from an information processing apparatus. The setting unit receives a user operation executed via an input device and configured to execute a print setting for the print data. The instruction unit instructs the acquisition unit to acquire the print data based on a print instruction for executing printing and instructs the setting unit to receive an input by the user operation for executing a print setting for the print data.
US08582165B2 Document processing apparatus
A document processing apparatus includes: a unit configured to detect a leading-edge point of an object in a page; a unit configured to calculate an association of objects to determine whether they should be merged into one based on the area matching rate between the leading-edge points of the objects; a unit configured not only to slide the objects in a normally appropriate direction for merging but also to perform fine-tuning in the vicinity thereof so as to derive a maximum area matching rate and improve the completeness of finished form of merging; a unit configured to merge the mating leading edges of the objects and further merge sets of overlapping objects; a unit configured to calculate the association by comparing attribute values included in the objects instead of using the area matching rate between the mating leading-edge points thereof, depending on a kind of the objects; and a unit configured to reduce the merged objects so that they fit into one page.
US08582163B2 Systems and methods for improving performance of trigonometric and distance function calculations during printing and display
Consistent with disclosed embodiments, systems and methods for optimizing printing of a print job comprising graphics by a printer are presented. In some embodiments, the method calculating optimal granularity for the print job, based on specified resolution and page size; generating at least one trigonometric table with the calculated granularity; determining if a job command in the print job comprises a trigonometric function; and, if so, obtaining at least one trigonometric value from the at least one trigonometric table based on information in the job command. A similar process may be used to optimize printing by reducing the number of distance calculations performed by using sub tables.
US08582159B2 Control device for controlling light source element and image forming apparatus with control device built therein
Provided is a control device for controlling a light source element configured to irradiate light for reading an image on a document including: a drive portion configured to selectively apply a first drive voltage and a second drive voltage lower than the first drive voltage to the light source element; a detector configured to detect a light quantity of reflected light of the light irradiated to the image; and a control portion configured to control the drive portion and switch between applications of the first drive voltage and the second drive voltage, wherein the control portion controls the drive portion based on a threshold period set in relation to an elapsed period from an application time of the first drive voltage and a threshold light quantity set in relation to the light quantity of the reflected light.
US08582155B2 Wireless location based rendering job delivery system and method
A wireless location based rendering job delivery system and method. An account with respect to a remote recipient can be subscribed to a globally accessible network cloud and GPS location data with respect to the remote recipient can be transmitted to the network cloud via a mobile communication device. A rendering job including job metadata with respect to a submitter can be transmitted to the network cloud and a list of recipients capable of receiving the rendering job in the network cloud can be provided. The rendering job metadata can be matched along with the recipient GPS location data to determine an appropriate print center in order to submit the rendering job. The rendering job can then be delivered to the recipient based on the location data thereby maintaining complete privacy.
US08582152B2 Image forming apparatus with multi-view display
An image forming apparatus comprises: an operation part having a display area and operable to receive an input from a user; a first display part operable to display, in a part of the display area, (i) a first image to be visible only from a range of a first viewing angle and (ii) a second image to be visible only from a range of a second viewing angle that does not overlap with the range of the first viewing angle; an audio output part operable to output an audio explaining the first image; and a second display part operable, while the audio explaining the first image is being output, to display, in a remaining part of the display area, a notification indicating that the audio explaining the first image does not correspond to the second image, such that the notification is visible from the range of the second viewing angle.
US08582149B2 Printing setting application apparatus, method, and program involving filtering processing
A print setting display device includes: a print job data acquiring section which acquires print job data representing printing targets classified in accordance with a plurality of classification units; and a print setting acquiring section which acquires setting completion information representing print settings corresponding to the classification units; and a display control section which allows a predetermined display unit to display information representing the printing targets, the classification units, and the setting completion information.
US08582143B2 Image reading apparatus and control method
An image reading apparatus comprising a conveying unit configured to convey a document; a reading unit configured to read an image of the document conveyed by the conveying unit; a storage unit configured to store data of the image read by the reading unit; a transfer unit configured to transfer the data stored in the storage unit to an external unit during a reading operation of the reading unit; and a reading control unit configured to control the reading unit to perform or stop the reading operation according to a threshold value related to a free space available for storing the data in the storage unit.
US08582139B2 Driver upgrading
Methods, systems, and arrangements enable the maintenance of driver settings when upgrading from an old driver having a first name to a new driver having a second different name. In certain described implementations, a driver upgrade is effectuated by first ascertaining driver settings for a peripheral and then upgrading a driver for the peripheral to an upgraded driver by replacing the former with the latter. After driver replacement, the driver settings for the peripheral are reestablished despite that the driver replacement entails changing driver names. Exemplary implementations may be directed to updating printer drivers in Microsoft Windows® operating system environments. Exemplary implementations may also include driver upgrading using an installation utility or driver upgrading using a new driver.
US08582137B2 Method and system for managing security of a remote device using a multifunction peripheral
A multifunction peripheral that can set appropriate criteria of security levels for another device, and improves usability while lowering a risk of data alteration, information leakage and the like by including a holding part 11 holding therein security criteria set for the image processing functions in one-to-one correspondence; a receiver 12 that receives, from an external terminal, a request for an access that is necessary for executing at least one of the image processing functions; an acquisition part 13 that acquires, from the external terminal, security information that is a security indicator regarding the access from the external terminal; a judgment part 15 that judges whether or not one of the security criteria set for the at least one of the image processing functions is met, based on the acquired security information; an access controller 16 that permits the access if the judgment part 15 judges affirmatively, and prohibits the access or permit the access with a limitation if the judgment part 15 judges negatively; and an execution part 19 that executes the at least one of the image processing functions, if the access controller permits the access.
US08582133B2 Cable label forming apparatus, tape printing apparatus, method of forming cable label for cable label forming apparatus and program
Provided herein is a cable label forming apparatus having an edit screen display device, a selection candidate display instructing device, and a selection candidate display device. The selection candidate display device displays a last selected candidate among the plurality of selection candidates on a priority basis in a normal edit screen when displaying the plurality of selection candidates is instructed, and displays a specific candidate among the plurality of selection candidates on a priority basis in a cable label forming edit screen when displaying the plurality of selection candidates is instructed.
US08582131B2 Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes a document reader, a storage for storing image data, an image output unit and a control unit. The control unit includes a display image generator for generating a display image, a display panel and a control unit-side controller having a function of presenting the display image based on the image data input in a preview representation and an output processing function of implementing an output process. As the output processing function, two schemes are provided: a first output scheme wherein, when image data has been input through the input unit, the images are output after displaying the images to be output in a preview representation on a display panel, and a second output scheme wherein, when image data has been input through the input unit, the image is directly output without displaying the image to be output in a preview representation on the display panel.
US08582128B2 Image-formation control device, image-formation control method, and computer program product
A device includes: a receiver receiving a displacement of an image formation target area in a sub-scanning direction from a reference position on a continuous form with side portions having holes and with a page boundary per a length; a calculator calculating marker lengths of markers marking upper and lower ends of a page of the continuous form based on the displacement, a shortest distance to the holes from the page boundary, and a reference length for when the displacement is not specified for the markers; another calculator calculating start positions of the markers based on the displacement, the distance, the reference length, and a length of the target area in the sub-scanning direction; and a controller performing, with respect to an apparatus, control of the image formation of the markers in the side portions from the start positions over the marker lengths.
US08582121B2 Article recognition apparatus and article processing apparatus using the same
An article recognition apparatus includes a marker having four or more unit pattern marks which are provided at a predetermined positional relationship on an article to be recognized and which are formed in such a way that a density pattern sequentially changes from a center position to a periphery of the pattern marker. The article recognition apparatus also includes an imaging tool that is disposed opposite the article to be recognized and that captures an image of the marker; a supporting mechanism that supports the imaging tool so as to enable setting of the imaging tool at least at a non-face-up measurement position; and a layout information recognition block that recognizes layout information about a position and an attitude of the article to be recognized.
US08582117B2 Systems and methods for calibrating an optical non-contact surface roughness measurement device
A calibration apparatus for an optical non-contact surface roughness measurement device allowing for quick, accurate, and repeatable device calibration is described. In certain embodiments, the calibration apparatus may include a base, one or more calibration surfaces coupled to a top surface of the base, and an alignment collar coupled to the top surface of the base defining a window exposing the one or more calibration surfaces. By utilizing the mechanical structure of the alignment collar and base, the optical non-contact surface roughness measurement device may be accurately aligned with respect to the calibration surfaces, allowing for repeatable calibration measurements.
US08582112B2 Double pass interferometer with tilted mirrors
An interferometer of the present invention includes a PBS2 which splits light into reference light and measurement light, a reference mirror which reflects the reference light entering the reference mirror from a first direction, a measurement mirror which reflects the measurement light entering the measurement mirror from a second direction, a lens system which reflected lights from the reference mirror and the measurement light enter, a reflective device which reflects light from the lens system, and a light receiving device which receives multiplexed light, wherein the reference mirror and the measurement mirror are in a conjugate relation with respect to the reflective device, and at least one of the reference mirror and the measurement mirror is tilted so that its normal direction differs from the first and the second direction.
US08582110B2 Apparatus for low coherence optical imaging
The present invention relates to an apparatus for low coherence optical imaging, and more particularly to an apparatus for low coherence optical imaging which can obtain the information of the different depths of a sample simultaneously. The apparatus comprises a phase transformation unit or a beam shift unit. The phase transformation unit or beam shift unit transforms and reflects the reference light, such that the reflected reference light comprises different phases at the different positions of a cross-section. When the reference light and a information light from the sample are superimposed on a photo detector, the information of the different depths of the sample is obtained. By using the apparatus of the present invention, the elements, the volume, and the cost of the apparatus are reduced. Because of only two-dimensional scanning is required, the scanning rate is improved.
US08582104B2 Optical device for detection of an agent
In certain embodiments, a system for detecting an agent includes a resonator device configured to receive an agent. The resonator device is additionally configured to transmit light received from a light source. The transmitted light has a known characteristic in the absence of the received agent and an altered characteristic in the presence of the received agent. The system further include a lens positioned between the resonator device and a detector array. The lens is configured to focus the transmitted light onto one or more detectors of the detector array, the one or more detectors of the detector array operable to generate a signal corresponding to the transmitted light. The system further includes a processing system operable to determine whether the agent is present based on the signal generated by the one or more detectors of the detector array.
US08582095B2 Spectrometer measuring head for analyzing characteristic variables of liquid, pasty or solid substances
A spectrometer measuring head has a pivotally mounted mirror (1) and at least one source of optical radiation (2) or a device for uncoupling optical radiation are arranged in a housing (6) in such a manner that the optical radiation is incident, by orientating the mirror either on a reference body (3) in the housing or on the substance (14) that is to be analyzed via a window (7) of the housing. The mirror is mechanically coupled to a drive (4) or to a flexing resonator in the housing.
US08582086B2 Range measurement device
A range measurement device is disclosed. The device comprises a flash laser radar configured to produce a first laser pulse at a first time. The device receives, at a second time, reflections of the first laser pulse from at least one object within a 360 degree field of view. The device further comprises a timing electronics module, an image sensor in communication with the timing electronics module, a mirror element coupled between the image sensor and the laser radar, and a lens. The mirror element includes a first reflector configured to disperse the reflections of the first laser pulse within at least a portion of the 360 degree field of view and a second reflector configured to collect returning reflections of the first laser pulse from the at least one object into the image sensor. The lens is configured to focus the returning reflections onto the image sensor.
US08582078B2 Test method for determining reticle transmission stability
Methods, systems and apparatus for monitoring the state of a reticle by providing a reticle having a device exposure region in an imaging tool, defining one or more image fields across the device exposure region, and transmitting energy through the device exposure region. A detector detects the energy in the image field(s) at one or more testing intervals and a system control generates a transmission profile of average energy transmissions for each image field. Using this transmission profile, the state of the reticle is then determined at each testing interval followed by taking action based on the reticle state. The state of the reticle identifies whether the device exposure region has been deleteriously degraded, and as such, the reticle is no longer suitable for use. This is accomplished by determining if any average energy transmission of any image field across the reticle exceeds an allowable energy transmission threshold.
US08582076B2 Method of manufacturing liquid crystal panel comprising application of seal printing plate including mesh portion
A method of manufacturing a liquid crystal panel including two glass substrates, which face each other and are bonded by a circumference seal of a display area, and which hold a liquid crystal therebetween, comprising the steps of: disposing a seal printing plate comprising a mesh cross-points; and applying the circumference seal on either one of the two glass substrates by using the seal printing plate, wherein the mesh cross-points of the seal printing plate contact with a light shielding region of pixels in the display area.
US08582064B2 Liquid crystal display device
Disclosed is an MVA type liquid crystal display device (LCD 100A) forming four domains in which liquid crystal molecules fall in different directions that are about 90° apart. The MVA type liquid crystal display device includes a plurality of pixels arranged in a matrix of rows and columns, which pixels are horizontally long pixels having longer sides extending in the row direction. Each pixel includes two first electrodes (21a and 21b) arranged side by side along the row direction. Preferably, at least one of the two first electrodes (21a and 21b) has a first corner section including a first edge that is parallel to the row direction and a second edge that is parallel to the column direction, and the first substrate further includes an electrode layer (16c) overlapping at least a portion of the first edge or the second edge of the first corner section. According to the present invention, display quality deterioration caused by disturbed alignment of liquid crystal molecules occurring near the edges of the pixel electrodes can be suppressed.
US08582058B2 Lighting system including wiring over electrode
It is an object of the present invention to provide a lighting system having favorable luminance uniformity in a light-emitting region when the lighting system has large area. According to one feature of the invention, a lighting system comprises a first electrode, a second electrode, a layer containing a light-emitting substance formed between the first electrode and the second electrode, an insulating layer which is formed over a substrate in a grid form and contains a fluorescence substance, and a wiring formed over the insulating layer. The insulating layer and the wiring are covered with the first electrode so that the first electrode and the wiring are in contact with each other.
US08582057B2 Liquid crystal display and method of manufacturing the same
Disclosed is a liquid crystal display which includes a first display panel including a plurality of pixel electrodes, a second display panel facing the first display panel, and a liquid crystal layer interposed between the first display panel and the second display panel, and a method of manufacturing the liquid crystal display panel. The second display panel includes a light emitting element displaying a color, an insulating layer disposed on the light emitting element and including a rubbed surface, a polarization layer disposed on the insulating layer and opposite to the light emitting element with respect to the insulating layer, and a common electrode disposed on the polarization layer and facing the pixel electrode.
US08582055B2 Backlight device and display apparatus
A backlight device according to an embodiment includes: first and second light emitting units configured to emit light; and a semi-transmissive reflector placed between the first light emitting unit and the second light emitting unit. The semi-transmissive reflector has a higher reflectance with respect to light incident on a first face facing the first light emitting unit than a reflectance with respect to light incident on a second face facing the second light emitting unit, the semi-transmissive reflector has a higher transmittance with respect to the light incident on the second face than a transmittance with respect to the light incident on the first face.
US08582052B2 Discrete LED backlight control for a reduced power LCD display system
Backlit LCD displays are becoming commonplace within many vehicle applications. The unique advantage of this invention is that it optimizes system power savings for display of low dynamic range (LDR) images by dynamically controlling spatially adjustable backlighting. This is accomplishes through use of a control technique that takes into account the sequential nature of the video display process.
US08582047B2 Display device and window manufacturing method for the display device
According to an embodiment of the present invention, a display device includes a body, a display part disposed inside of the body, and configured to display information, a first window disposed on a front surface of the display part and maintaining a distance from the body and the display part, and a second window provided between the body and the first window.
US08582027B2 Image pick-up apparatus
An image pick-up apparatus includes a lens module, a base plate, and an image sensor. The lens module includes a lens barrel and an optical lens received in the lens barrel. The base plate has two opposite surfaces and a rectangular through hole defined between the two surfaces. The image sensor is fixed to the base plate. The image sensor has a top surface facing the lens module. The top surface includes a rectangular exposed portion in the through hole. The exposed portion includes a rectangular optically effective region configured for capturing images. A distance between neighboring long sides of the optically effective region and the exposed portion being greater than 0.47 times of a length of the through hole, and a distance between the neighboring short sides of the optically effective region and the exposed portion being greater than 0.27 times of the length.
US08582023B2 Electronic device with a storage case and lid which is openable/closable and lockable with storage case
An electronic device capable of generating a click force when a lid member is operated to be opened or closed, without increasing the number of parts. The electronic device includes a storage case formed with a first shaft hole in which a pivot shaft of a battery lid is positioned when the battery lid is locked with the storage case and a second shaft hole in which the pivot shaft is positioned when the battery lid is released from locking with the storage case. A hook portion of the storage case is disposed to face a space extending between the first and second shaft holes, and pivoted in a direction to expand the space when the pivot shaft is moved between the first and second shaft holes than when the pivot shaft is positioned in the first or second shaft hole.
US08582010B2 Image sensor
The invention relates to an image sensor, in particular to a CMOS image sensor, for digital cameras, having a plurality of pixels arranged in rows and columns, wherein the respective pixel comprises: a light sensitive detector element to generate electrical charge from incident light during an exposure procedure, a readout node, a transfer gate to which a transfer control pulse can be applied to allow a charge transfer from the detector element to the readout node, and a reset device to reset a charge present in the readout node to a reference value. The image sensor furthermore has a control device for the control of the transfer gate and of the of the reset device of the respective pixel. The control device is designed so that the respective pixel is read out in a plurality of readout steps during the ongoing charge generation in a single exposure procedure, and indeed such that a respective transfer control pulse is applied to the transfer gate for each of the plurality of readout steps and a respective readout result is then produced; wherein the reset device is activated between the transfer control pulses of the respective exposure procedure; and wherein only the last transfer control pulse enables a complete charge transfer of the respective charge present in the detector element to the readout node.
US08582004B2 Noise-cancelling image sensors
An image sensor that has a plurality of pixels within a pixel array coupled to a control circuit and to one or more subtraction circuits. The control circuit may cause an output transistor coupled to a pixel to provide a first reference output signal, a common reset output signal, and a first sense-node reset output signal, between which a subtraction circuit may form a weighted difference to create a noise signal. The control circuit may cause the output transistor to provide a second sense-node reset output signal, a light response output signal and a second reference output signal, between which a subtraction circuit may form a weighted difference to create a normalized light response signal. The light response output signal corresponds to the image that is to be captured by the sensor. The noise signal may be subtracted from the normalized light response signal to generate a de-noised signal.
US08582001B2 Exposure control for high dynamic range image capture
A device and methods are provided for producing a high dynamic range (HDR) image of a scene are disclosed and claimed. In one embodiment, method includes setting an exposure period of an image sensor of the digital camera and capturing image data based on the exposure period. The method may further include checking the image data to determine whether the number of saturated pixels exceeds a saturation threshold and checking the image data to determine whether the number of cutoff pixels exceeds a cutoff threshold. The method may further include generating a high dynamic range image based on image data captured by the digital camera, wherein the high dynamic range image is generated based on a minimum number of images to capture a full dynamic range of the scene.
US08581993B2 Information processing device and computer readable recording medium
An information processing device that is connected to a projecting device that projects an annotation image input from an external, terminal a projection area including an object and a background, and is connected to an image capture device that captures an image of the projection area including the object and the background, includes: a detecting unit that detects movement of the object from an image captured by the image capture device; an extracting unit that extracts a changed region that is caused in the captured image by the movement of the object; and a processing unit that performs processing on at least one of the captured image and the annotation image, when the annotation image exists in the changed region.
US08581992B2 Image capturing apparatus and camera shake correction method, and computer-readable medium
An image capturing apparatus includes: an image capturing unit capturing an image of an object; an image capture controller that causes the image capturing unit to capture first color component images having a first color component by multi-shot exposure, and causes the image capturing unit to capture second and third color component images, a displacement information acquiring unit that acquires displacement information; an image adding unit that aligns and adds the first color component images based on the displacement information to generate an added image; a calculator that calculates a first point spread function based on the displacement information; a first correcting unit that corrects the second and third color component images using the first point spread function; and a combining unit that combines the added image with the corrected second and third color component images.
US08581983B2 Vehicle interior classification system and method
A vehicle interior classification system and method determines a classification relating to the interior of the vehicle, such as the occupancy status of a vehicle seat or the state of alertness of a vehicle driver, from one or more images of an appropriate portion of the interior of the vehicle acquired with an image capture device. The acquired images may be processed to limit the dynamic range of the images to obtain a resultant image that includes one or more regions of interest which are less than the total field of view of the image capture device. The resultant images are processed to extract information about features in the image. The set of coefficients produced with suchprocessing can be reduced to a subset of the total number of coefficients, the members of the subset being selected for their ability to discriminate between the classifications defined for the system.
US08581981B2 Optical imaging system for unmanned aerial vehicle
An optical imaging system and associated methods for capturing images from an aircraft, such as a UAV. A camera unit on-board the aircraft is remotely controlled from an image control station. The image control station receives image data from the camera unit, and also delivers control signals for determining a viewing mode of the image.
US08581975B2 Infrared defect detection system and method for the evaluation of powdermetallic compacts
A pulsed thermography defect detection apparatus including active and passive infrared (IR) thermography for non-destructive testing (NDT) of powdermetallic (P/M) components for on-line and off-line inspection.
US08581974B2 Systems and methods for presence detection
Systems and methods are provided for presence detection using an image system. The image system may be a camera that is integrated into an electronic device. In some embodiments, the image system can accommodate multiple operating modes of the electronic device. For example, when the electronic device is operating in a normal power mode, control circuitry of the image system can detect when a user has left and is no longer using the electronic device. When the electronic device is operating in a power saving mode, the control circuitry can detect user presence (e.g., when a user has come back to the electronic device). In some embodiments, the control circuitry can adjust for both gradual and sudden light changes.
US08581970B2 Living body observation device
A light source unit, which is connected to a control unit and an endoscope, radiates a pre-determined light quantity of white light based on a signal from the control unit. The light source unit includes a lamp as a white light source, an infrared cut filter, a light quantity limiting filter, being inserted/removed on an optical path, for limiting light quantity in a pre-determined wavelength region of white light, a filter insertion/removal driving unit for inserting/removing the light quantity limiting filter on an optical path, and a condensing lens for outputting white light. For example, when a transmission rate of a blue band is 100%, the light quantity limiting filter limits transmission rates of other bands to 50%. This improves S/N in discrete spectral image generation with illumination light in a visible light region.
US08581967B2 Three-dimensional (3D) display method and system
A method is provided for a three-dimensional (3D) display system. The method includes obtaining a plurality of original images of a plurality of viewpoints in a 3D image for display, and determining an actual size of a display window on a display device configured to display the 3D image. The method also includes adjusting an average parallax value between at least two of the plurality of original images based on the actual size of the display window. Further, the method includes creating a new 3D image with a desired average parallax based on the adjusted plurality of original images, and sending the new 3D image to the display device for display.
US08581965B2 Means and facility for 3D imaging
A means for 3D imaging takes two plane pictures of an object in different angles and respectively projects the correspondent images of the object toward users' eyes. Accordingly, the visual data would be transmitted to user's brain and integrated to construct a solid vision. A facility for 3D imaging comprises a multiple image projector consisting of a displaying unit installed on a refracting unit. Wherein, the displaying unit performs a plurality of images, and the refracting unit adopts an optical unit. Thereby, image beams generated by the displaying unit would travel through the refracting unit and deflect by a certain angle. Accordingly, the images shot from two different angles would be respectively projected into user's eyes, and a solid vision could be constructed.
US08581954B2 Mobile communication terminal that delivers vibration information, and method thereof
A mobile communication terminal and a method for transferring vibration information are disclosed. The mobile communication terminal detects a movement of the mobile communication terminal caused by a user of the mobile communication terminal during a voice communication between the mobile communication terminal and a call partner terminal, generates vibration information corresponding to the movement of the mobile communication terminal, and transmits the generated vibration information to the call partner terminal, or receives vibration information generated by a call partner terminal during a voice communication between the mobile communication terminal and the call partner terminal and generates vibration corresponding to the movement of the call partner terminal, so as to enable the user of the mobile communication terminal and the call partner in communication with each other to share their emotion and feelings through the vibrations of the mobile communication terminal and the call partner terminal.
US08581952B2 Light-emitting device, driving method of light-emitting device, light-emitting chip, print head and image forming apparatus
A light-emitting device includes: plural light-emitting chips each having plural light-emitting elements, and each being designated, as a control target for lighting up or not lighting up, by two to Q designation signals (Q is an integer of two or more); and a selection signal generating part that selectively transmits P selection signals (P is an integer of three or more where P>Q) as the designation signals to designate each of the plural light-emitting elements as the control target, the designation signals for each of the plural light-emitting chips including a combination of two to Q selection signals taken from the P selection signals.
US08581949B2 Laser marking method
The present invention relates to a laser marking method which is capable of changing the grey level of a marking even in the case of a high processing speed. The laser marking method forms a marking pattern on a marking object by irradiating the marking object with pulsed light oscillated from a pulsed light source of a MOPA structure in which a semiconductor laser outputting directly-modulated pulsed light is used as a seed light source. At this time, the pulse duration of the pulsed light is changed in order to change a gray level of the marking pattern to be formed. In this way, a peak power of the pulsed light is changed by changing the pulse duration, so that it is possible to positively change the gray level of the marking pattern without changing the processing speed.
US08581944B2 Image forming apparatus and method for detecting position deviation
An image forming apparatus includes a photoconductor drum, a first printer head that forms a first pattern on the photoconductor drum and has a first end part, a second printer head that forms second and third patterns on the photoconductor drum and has a second end part that overlaps the first end part in a main scanning direction, a detection sensor that detects the densities of first and second test patterns formed at an area of the photoconductor drum at which the first and second end parts overlap, the first test pattern being formed by combining the first and second patterns, the second test pattern being formed by combining the first and third patterns, and a determination part that determines a deviation direction between the first and second printer heads by comparing the densities detected by the detection sensor.
US08581938B2 Information processing apparatus, information processing method and program for magnifying a screen and moving a displayed content
An information processing apparatus according to the present invention includes: an input position detecting unit for detecting a position of an operator positioned on an operation input unit; a direction detecting unit for detecting a moving direction of the operator based on time change of the position of the detected operator; a magnification change unit for changing a magnification of a screen in accordance with a number of the operator detected by the input position detecting unit; and a display content moving unit for moving a content displayed on the screen along the moving direction of the operator detected by the direction detecting unit.
US08581926B2 Systems for advanced editing and rendering of images
A system of editing and rendering an on-screen image, by:storing 3D data of an object; storing a 2D image of surroundings of the object; and displaying a 2D image of the object concurrently with the 2D image of the surroundings of the object; editing the 3D image of the object; and rendering the edited 3D image of the object.Optionally, editing the image includes: editing the image in a 2D viewer; editing the image by interactive ray tracing when it is not possible to edit the edit the image in a 2D viewer; and editing the image by a hardware accelerated offline render path when it is not desirable to edit the image by interactive ray tracing.Optionally, rendering the edited 3D data of the object includes: rendering the image by an interactive ray tracing; rendering the image by a hardware accelerated render path when it is not desirable to render the image by interactive ray tracing; and rendering the image by an offline software rendering when it is not desirable to render the image by a hardware accelerated render path.In optional aspects, the 3D image data set can be tagged with user-defined properties that may optionally be edited in pop-up or drop-down menus.
US08581921B2 Image display device and image adjustment method
An image display device includes: an external light measurement unit measuring the illuminance of an external light a plurality of times, and generating a measurement value indicating the illuminance; a storage unit storing history data which shows the measurement values, and color mode data which shows a correspondence between the illuminance and a color mode; a determination unit, based on the history data, determining whether or not it is a changed condition wherein the illuminance changes upward or downward, or the illuminance fluctuates; and an adjustment unit, in the event that it is not the changed condition, determining the color mode to be applied based on the measurement values and the color mode data, and adjusting the color or brightness of an image in accordance with the color mode, and in the event that it is the changed condition, continuing the adjustment currently being applied as the image adjustment.
US08581920B2 Utilizing masked data bits during accesses to a memory
Embodiments of an apparatus that uses unused masked data bits during an access to a memory are described. This apparatus includes a selection circuit, which selects data bits to be driven on data lines during the access to the memory. This selection circuit includes a control input that receives a data mask signal, which indicates whether a set of data bits is to be masked during the access to the memory. During the access to the memory, the selection circuit selects either the set of data bits to be driven when the data mask signal is not asserted, or an alternative set of values to be driven when the data mask signal is asserted.
US08581918B2 Method and system for efficiently organizing data in memory
A method and system for efficiently organizing data in memory is provided. Exemplary aspects of the invention may include storing linear data and block data in more than one DRAM device and accessing the data with one read/write access cycle. Common control signals may be used to control the DRAM devices and the address lines used to address each DRAM device may be independent from one another. The data read from the DRAM devices may be reordered to make the data more suitable for processing by applications.
US08581913B2 Data processing apparatus and image processing apparatus
A data processing apparatus in which pipeline processing is performed comprises a control unit that controls a data processing sequence, a first processing unit that begins first data processing by inputting data on the basis of a start signal, outputs data subjected to the first data processing, and outputs a completion signal to the control unit after completing the first data processing, and a second processing unit that begins second data processing by inputting the data subjected to the first data processing on the basis of a start signal, outputs data subjected to the second data processing, and outputs a completion signal to the control unit after completing the second data processing. The control unit outputs a following start signal to the first processing unit and the second processing unit upon reception of the completion signal of the first data processing and the second data processing respectively.
US08581896B2 Power supply for receiving different input voltages and organic light emitting display device using the same
A power supply configured to receive at least one of a first input voltage and a second input voltage and to generate a voltage of a first pixel power and a voltage of a second pixel power, includes: a voltage sensing unit for generating voltage sensing signals corresponding to the first input voltage and the second input voltage; a first power generating unit for receiving the first input voltage and generating the voltage of the first pixel power corresponding to the voltage sensing signals; a second power generating unit for receiving the second input voltage and generating the voltage of the first pixel power corresponding to the voltage sensing signals; and a third power generating unit for receiving the first input voltage and the second input voltage, utilizing the first input voltage or the second input voltage, and generating the voltage of the second pixel power corresponding to the voltage sensing signals.
US08581891B2 Light sensor noise suppression arrangement and method therefor
A light sensor arrangement is used to detect ambient light conditions. According to an example embodiment, a light detector arrangement (e.g., 110) generates an output in response to light incident thereupon. An averaging-type circuit (e.g., 160) samples the generated output for overlapping time intervals, and combines the sampled output to form a new output that characterizes the incident light. The overlapping time intervals 5 (e.g., 221-261) are chosen such that the new output is generally flicker-free for incident light generated using one of at least two different power supply frequencies.
US08581885B2 Writing device, display sheet, and electronic device
A writing device for displaying an image on a display layer having a containing portion in which electrophoretic particles are contained, includes: a casing; a power supply provided in the casing; an electrode portion which is provided in the casing and is electrically connected to the power supply; and a conductive portion which is provided in the casing and is electrically connected to the power supply, wherein display of the image is performed by electrically connecting the electrode portion to the display layer so that the conductive portion is electrically connected to the display layer.
US08581884B2 Touch sensing apparatus and method of operating the same
A touch sensing apparatus is controlled to determine the position of one or more objects (7) that interact with a touch surface (1). The apparatus includes a group of emitters (2) arranged to emit light to illuminate at least part of the touch surface (1), a light detector (4) arranged to receive light from the group of emitters (2), and a processing element (7). Each emitter (2) is controlled to transmit a code by way of the emitted light such that the code identifies the respective emitter (2). The codes may at least partly be transmitted concurrently. The codes may be selected such that a value of an autocorrelation of each code is significantly higher than a value of a cross-correlation between any two codes of different emitters (2). The processing element processes an output signal from the light detector (4) to separate the light received from the individual emitters (2) based on the transmitted codes, and to determine the position of the object/objects (7) based on the light received from the individual emitters (2), e.g. using triangulation or image reconstruction such as an algorithm for transmission tomography.
US08581880B2 Capacitive touch display panel
A capacitive touch display panel includes a display panel, an outer substrate, and a capacitive touch device. The capacitive touch device is disposed between the outer substrate and the display panel. The capacitive touch device includes a plurality of first transparent electrodes, at least one transparent bridge line, a plurality of second transparent electrodes, at least one non-transparent bridge line, and at least one patterned low reflective layer. The patterned low reflective layer is disposed on an opposite side of the non-transparent bridge line with respect to the display panel. The patterned low reflective layer and the non-transparent bridge line are overlapped to each other in a vertical projective direction.
US08581876B1 Stand alone active storage unit for memory devices
An active, portable, stand alone memory device storage unit, comprising a housing containing a plurality of memory device receptacles, a touch sensitive display screen, and a programmed processor circuit coupled to the plurality of receptacles and the touch sensitive display. The unit provides access to each memory device installed in a receptacle to determine its identity, contents, capacity occupied, etc. and enables viewing the data stored on a memory device or transferring portions of the data from one device memory device to another, either inside or outside the storage unit, all without connecting the storage unit to a computer.
US08581870B2 Touch-sensitive button with two levels
A touch-sensitive depressible button with multiple depression thresholds is provided. When the button is depressed to a first depression threshold, the touch sensor can be switched from a low-power, non-sensing state to a sensing state. When the button is depressed to a second depression threshold, the touch sensor can sense the touch context and input can be generated based on the depression and the touch context. In this way, the touch-sensitive depressible button with multiple depression thresholds can facilitate timely switching of the touch sensor to a sensing state.
US08581866B2 User input device and electronic apparatus including the same
A user input device and electronic apparatus are provided. The user input device includes a first substrate on which first electrodes are formed; a second substrate disposed to be spaced apart from the first substrate, and on which second electrodes are formed; an electro-rheological fluid contained in a gap between the first substrate and the second substrate; and one or more lighting keypad units disposed on the second substrate. Each of the lighting keypad unit includes one or more key symbols which are different from one another. The electronic apparatus includes one or more user input devices.
US08581864B2 Information processing device, operation input method and operation input program
Disclosed herein is an information processing device including a contact detection unit configured to detect a contact operation for an operation surface, an approach detection unit configured to detect an approach operation for the operation surface, and a control unit configured to recognize the contact operation and the approach operation as a series of operation inputs when the contact operation and the approach operation are continuously detected.
US08581861B2 Pointer detection apparatus and pointer detection method
A pointer detection apparatus includes a conductor pattern with first conductors disposed in a first direction and second conductors disposed in a second direction that crosses the first direction, and a code string signal production circuit for producing signals based on orthogonal code strings with phases different from each other and supplying the produced signals to the first conductors. The apparatus also includes a signal detection circuit connected to the second conductors for detecting a signal corresponding to a variation of electrostatic capacitance between the conductor pattern and a pointer, an analog to digital conversion (ADC) circuit for converting the signal output from the signal detection circuit into a digital signal comprising a word string of multiple bits, and a correlation detection circuit for determining correlation values between the code strings and the word string. The apparatus also includes a memory for storing correlation values successively output from the correlation detection circuit, wherein the pointer is detected based on the correlation values.
US08581851B2 Method and device for character input having a base character component and a supplemental character component
A device which has a display, a memory, a processor and a first input and a second input. The device is configured to receive input through said first corresponding to a base character component and to receive input through said second corresponding to a supplemental character component. The supplemental character component and the base character component are thereby combined to form a character input.
US08581849B2 Electronic device system utilizing a character input method
A character input method is implemented in a device with a plurality of keys. If a key is activated by a first operation matching a first input pattern, a first route is selected to traverse a plurality of characters corresponded by the key during presentation of the plurality of characters. If the first key is activated by a second operation matching a second input pattern, the plurality of characters corresponded by the first key are orderly retrieved and presented according to a second route in response to operations on the first key. The order for presenting two characters corresponded by the first key in the first route is reversed in the second route.
US08581848B2 Hybrid pointing device
There is provided a hybrid pointing device including an optical navigation module, a pointing module and a switching module. The optical navigation module is configured to sense gestures of at least one object operated by a user to activate commands associated with particular programs running on the host. The pointing module is configured to detect a movement between the hybrid pointing device and a working surface. The switching module is configured to active the optical navigation module or the pointing module according to a deformation of a touch plate.
US08581834B2 Electro-optical device
An electro-optical device includes: a display section that has a plurality of pixels; a control value acquisition section that acquires an initial value of a control value c which is used when an image is displayed on the display section; a calculation section that decreases the control value c whenever the image of the display section is rewritten; and a control section that selects one driving method from a plurality of driving methods on the basis of the control value c and rewrites the image of the display section by using the selected driving method.
US08581830B2 Light source driver, method of driving the same and devices including the same
A light source driver including an adjusting circuit configured to adjust a voltage applied to each of a plurality of light source channels in response to a plurality of comparison signals and a comparison circuit configured to compare a minimum voltage among output voltages of the respective light source channels with a plurality of reference voltages and output the plurality of comparison signals.
US08581827B2 Backlight unit and liquid crystal display having the same
A liquid crystal display includes a liquid crystal panel that displays an image signal, a backlight unit supplying light to the liquid crystal panel, and a backlight control circuit to scan the backlight unit. The backlight control circuit supplies a pulse width modulation signal to rows of the backlight unit, which are adjacent to rows being scanned, such that the rows adjacent to the rows being scanned have a brightness lower than a brightness of the rows being scanned.
US08581823B2 Liquid crystal display device and driving method thereof
A liquid crystal display (LCD) device and a driving method can produce reduced direct current image sticking and flicker. An LCD panel for the LCD device has liquid crystal cells having a common same color in each horizontal line and has columns of liquid crystal cells having a repeating sequence of color, a timing controller for generating a polarity control signal such that the polarity control signal is varied at intervals of one frame period, a data driving circuit supplying data voltages to the data lines in response to the polarity control signal, and a gate driving circuit supplying scan pulses to the gate lines. The liquid crystal cells include first liquid crystal cell groups supplied with data voltages having polarities inverted from polarities the previous frame period, and second liquid crystal cell groups supplied with data voltages having polarities identical to the polarities supplied in the previous frame period.
US08581816B2 Liquid crystal display and driving method thereof
A liquid crystal display, the liquid crystal display comprises a plurality of gate lines which includes a first gate line, a transformation gate line, and a second gate line; a data line; and a pixel, wherein the pixel includes a first liquid crystal capacitor which includes a first sub-pixel electrode and a common electrode and a second liquid crystal capacitor which includes a second sub-pixel electrode and a common electrode; a first switching element connected to the first gate line, the data line, and the first sub-pixel electrode; a second switching element connected to the first gate line, the data line, and the second sub-pixel electrode; a third switching element connected to the transformation gate line and the second switching element; a transformation capacitor which includes a first terminal connected to the second gate line and a second terminal connected to the third switching element; and a first period where a gate-on voltage Von is applied to the first gate line and a second period where the gate-on voltage Von is applied to the transformation gate line do not overlap each other and, a gate-off voltage Voff is applied to the second gate line during the second period.
US08581813B2 Display device, method of manufacturing the same and display panel for the same
A display device includes a display panel, an application module, a printed circuit film and a driving unit. The display panel includes a plurality of pixel portions formed in a display area, at least one output pad formed in a first peripheral area that is formed at a first side of the display area and at least one connection line electrically connected to the output pad. At least one application module disposed adjacent the display panel. At least one printed circuit film electrically connects the output pad to the application module. The driving unit includes a pixel driving section electrically connected to the pixel portions to drive the pixel portions and an application driving section electrically connected to the connection line to drive the application module.
US08581803B2 Video presenting network management
Resources of a video presenting network having plural outputs can be configured. A provisional configuration can be supported. Configuration of inputs can be performed separately from configuration of outputs. Interdependencies between network resources can be considered to restrict provided options to those co-functional with a provisional configuration. A client can use a set of functions provided by a service to traverse the configuration solution space. The functions can support a transactional configuration approach. Responsibility for considering interdependencies can be delegated to a video driver, such as a video miniport.
US08581801B2 Droopy bowtie radiator with integrated balun
An antenna element and balun are described. The antenna includes a plurality of droopy bowtie antenna elements disposed on dielectric block and a feed point. The balun includes a central member having dielectric slabs symmetrically disposed on external surfaces thereof. At least one end of the balun is provided having a shape such that conductors on the dielectric slabs of the balun can be coupled to the the droopy bowtie antenna elements.
US08581794B1 Circular antenna array systems
Antenna arrays providing high gain during wireless communications are highly desirable for many applications including, but not limited to, multiple-in multiple-out (MIMO) streams and video transmissions. Optimized antenna arrays should also ensure ease of manufacture, thereby enhancing commercial viability. Circular antenna arrays including horn antennas or Yagi antennas are described, each circular antenna array ensuring ease of manufacture.
US08581793B2 RFID antenna with asymmetrical structure and method of making same
An RFID antenna comprised of a first arm, load element, and second arm together providing a complex impedance match to one or more load circuits contained within the load element for operation at one or more frequency bands. The load element is comprised of one or more load circuits. Load circuits are further comprised of one or more RFID transponders, energy scavengers, microcontrollers, and associated sensor circuits. The first and second arms are different in length and shape resulting in an asymmetrical antenna structure along the major axis. The first arm, the load element, and the second arm all comprise radiative electromagnetic structures for ultra high frequency and higher bands of operation. Embodiments provide an antenna with Faraday coils located within the arms operating in one or more of low frequency and, high frequency bands.
US08581783B2 Metamaterial-based direction-finding antenna systems
Method embodiments are disclosed to determine arrival directions of electromagnetic signals that have a known signal frequency and a known guided signal wavelength. These methods are realized with an antenna configured to define, at the signal frequency, at least one metamaterial cell between first and second signal ports. They then include the step of rotating the antenna until the differential power from the first and second signal ports is substantially zero and then determining the arrival direction as a normal to the metamaterial cell. In other method embodiments, the antenna is stationary and a differential power is determined wherein the differential power is defined as the difference between received powers from the first and second ports. The arrival direction of electromagnetic signals are then determined from the differential power.
US08581781B2 Interferometric methods and systems
An interferometer estimates at least one interferometric parameter of one or more signals emitted from a source. The interferometer has an array of antennas and at least one phase detector configured to determine a plurality of phase measurements of the one or more source signals. A combined estimator processes the plurality of phase measurements to provide estimates of at least one sought parameter, representing the at least one interferometric parameter, and at least one noise parameter associated with the plurality of phase measurements. A postprocessor processes estimates of the at least one sought parameter based on at least one noise parameter received from the combined estimator to improve an estimate of the at least one interferometric parameter. The combined estimator is configurable to produce a maximum likelihood estimate of the at least one sought parameter using at least one noise parameter calculated based on the plurality of phase measurements.
US08581772B2 Method, apparatus, and system to remotely acquire information from volumes in a snowpack
A method, apparatus, and system to remotely acquire information from volumes in a snowpack and to analyze the information are disclosed. Electromagnetic energy is transmitted remotely to a region of interest in a snowpack and data about reflections are processed to determine reflection values for different volumes within the snowpack. The frequency of the transmit signal is modulated and the positions from which energy is transmitted and received are changed to create a two-dimensional synthetic aperture that allows reflections from three-dimensional volumes to be discriminated and resolved. The electromagnetic energy is transmitted to ensure that it arrives at the snowpack at shallow grazing angles to maximize returns from volumes in the snow and to minimize boundary reflections from the ground.
US08581770B2 Zero-power sampling SAR ADC circuit and method
A switched-capacitor circuit (10, 32 or 32A) samples a first signal (VIN+) onto a first capacitor (C1 or CIN1) by switching a top plate thereof via a summing conductor (13) to a first reference voltage (VSS) and switching a bottom plate thereof to the first signal. A second signal (VIN−) is sampled onto a second capacitor (C3 or CIN3) by switching a top plate thereof to the second signal and switching a bottom plate thereof to the first reference voltage. After the sampling, the top plate of the second capacitor is coupled to the top plate of the first capacitor. The bottom plate of the second capacitor is coupled to the first reference voltage. The bottom plate of the first capacitor is coupled to a second reference voltage (VDD or VREF), to thereby cancel at least a portion of a common mode input voltage component from the first conductor (13), hold the sampled differential charge on the summing conductor and establish a predetermined common mode voltage thereon, and prevent the summing conductor from having a voltage which allows the leakage of charge therefrom. The switched-capacitor circuit may be a SAR, an integrator, or an amplifier.
US08581747B2 Pedestrian support system
Disclosed is a pedestrian support system that supports the movement of a pedestrian through the use of tags. This pedestrian support system comprises: a plurality of tags having an information storage unit and that are placed on a cable that extends over a traveled path; a guide device that is held by a pedestrian that is traveling along a sidewalk and that is capable of non-contact communication with the tags, and a central control device, comprising a database in which tag map information is recorded, that uses that tag map information to creates path information having tag IDs that are in the order of tags that are located along a path from a starting location to a destination location and directly or indirectly sets that path information in the guide device. The guide device reads the tag IDs from the tags, compares the read tag IDs with the tag IDs in the path information to identify the location on the path where the pedestrian is walking, and provides information such as advancement direction to support the movement of the pedestrian.
US08581736B2 Assessing structural repair integrity
A strain measurement device to assess the integrity of a structural repair to a surface comprises a detector, a processor, and a memory module coupled to the processor. The memory module comprises logic instructions stored in a computer readable medium which, when executed by the processor, configure the processor to use the detector to obtain a first strain measurement from an external strain indicator, use the detector to obtain a second strain measurement from the measurement sensor after at least one stress test is applied to the structural repair, and generate a signal when a difference between the first strain measurement and the second strain measurement exceeds a threshold.
US08581734B2 Management system for managing bulk material inside a silo using a set of load cells and an accelerometer
Management System for managing bulk material inside a silo, that includes: load cells bolted to brackets that are welded to the legs of the silo; an electronic device that measures the weight from the load cells and transmits that information via radio to a gateway that connects to the Internet, a photovoltaic panel to obtain power from solar energy; a set of Supercaps to operate at night-time, a thermistor to compensate for temperature, a XYZ accelerometer to detect movement of the silo and its inclination, a real time clock and a radio communications channel.
US08581733B2 Portable electronic device
A drop detection part that detects drop of the device into the water, a light emitting body disposed in the housing, and a light-emission control circuit that makes the light emitting body emit light when the drop detection part detects the drop into the water are provided, and the rear face of the housing is made translucent, a lower part of a sealing member sealing the front housing and the rear housing is also made translucent, and a cover part covering the light emitting body is formed on this translucent part.
US08581732B2 Noninvasive multi-parameter patient monitor
Embodiments of the present disclosure include a handheld multi-parameter patient monitor capable of determining multiple physiological parameters from the output of a light sensitive detector capable of detecting light attenuated by body tissue. For example, in an embodiment, the monitor is capable of advantageously and accurately displaying one or more of pulse rate, plethysmograph data, perfusion quality, signal confidence, and values of blood constituents in body tissue, including for example, arterial carbon monoxide saturation (“HbCO”), methemoglobin saturation (“HbMet”), total hemoglobin (“Hbt”), arterial oxygen saturation (“SpO2”), fractional arterial oxygen saturation (“SpaO2”), or the like. In an embodiment, the monitor displays a line associated with a patient wellness level.
US08581716B2 Vehicle crash hazard notice system
An apparatus and method for deploying vivid notice to a first responder, wherein the deploying event is triggered by the vehicle crash motion or by signal from the vehicle's own crash detection system, and the vivid notice is coded to the particular hazard present at the vehicle crash site and includes at least one visual notice, auditory notice, or olfactory notice, and may include a combination of any of the three notices, or all three at once.
US08581710B2 Systems and methods for haptic confirmation of commands
Systems and methods for haptic confirmation of commands are disclosed. For example, one system includes a microphone; a housing configured to be contacted by a user, and an actuator in communication with the housing, the actuator configured to output a haptic effect to the housing. The system also includes a processor in communication with the microphone and the actuator, the processor configured to receive speech information from the microphone; recognize the speech information and determine a command associated with the speech information. If the speech information is recognized and the command is determined, the processor is configured to generate an actuator signal configured to cause the actuator to output a haptic effect, and transmit the actuator signal to the actuator. Otherwise, the processor is configured generate a second actuator signal configured to cause the actuator to output a second haptic effect; and transmit the second actuator signal to the actuator.
US08581700B2 Wearable device
A wearable device is worn by a person participating in an event in which a plurality of other people are participating and wearing other wearable devices. The wearable device includes a request unit for transmitting a request signal to other wearable devices that are in a predetermined range, and receiving a response to the request signal from each of the other wearable devices, and a communication unit for determining, with use of the received responses, one or more of the other wearable devices to be a communication partner, and performing data communication with the determined one or more other wearable devices. The data received in the communication is data collected by the one or more other wearable devices determined to be communication partners, and the data is used as a profile component when creating a profile of the event.
US08581680B2 Connecting device adaptable to different contactors
A device for connecting a terminal of an operating coil of an electromagnetic contactor, the device having a first connecting piece electrically connected to a terminal of the operating coil, a second connecting piece arranged in the contactor opposite a surface of the contactor so as to be accessible from the outside of the insulating body of the contactor in order to enable the electrical connection between the contactor and an outside module, and at least one connecting member including a first connecting portion arranged to ensure the electric contact with the first connecting piece according to at least two different relative positions between the first connecting portion and the first connecting piece, and a second connecting portion arranged to ensure the electric contact with the second connecting piece according to at least two different relative positions between the second connecting portion and the second connecting piece.
US08581672B2 Frequency synthesis
An apparatus including a spin torque oscillator configured to receive an input electric current and to produce a radio frequency output signal; and a tunable current source for providing an input electric current to the spin torque oscillator.
US08581667B2 Tuning voltage range extension circuit and method
A circuit includes a first path including a first transistor and a first current source. The first transistor is responsive to a tuning voltage. The circuit also includes a tuning voltage range extension circuit responsive to the tuning voltage. The tuning voltage range extension circuit is configured to selectively change current supplied by the first path as the tuning voltage exceeds a capacity threshold of the first transistor.
US08581665B2 Doherty amplifier
A Doherty amplifier includes: an input distributor; a coupler; a plurality of Doherty circuit connected between the input distributor and the coupler; wherein each of Doherty circuits has a carrier amplifier, a peaking amplifier, a distributor distributing a input signal to the carrier amplifier and the peaking amplifier, and a combiner that transforms an output impedance of the carrier amplifier and combines outputs of the carrier amplifier and the peaking amplifier.
US08581658B2 Charge pump
A charge pump circuit comprises a first node, a second node, and at least one capacitance stage coupled between the first node and the second node. Capacitance stages of the at least one capacitance stage are coupled in series. A capacitance stage of the at least one capacitance stage includes a capacitive device and a voltage limiter coupled in parallel with the capacitor. The voltage limiter is configured to limit a voltage dropped across the capacitor. The capacitive device and the voltage limiter are configured such that a first current flowing through a first branch having the voltage limiter is more than a second current flowing through a second branch having the capacitive device.
US08581647B2 System and method of stabilizing charge pump node voltage levels
A method includes tracking a tuning voltage at a first circuit coupled to a first drain node of a first supply of a charge pump. The method also includes tracking the tuning voltage at a second circuit coupled to a second drain node of a second supply of the charge pump. The method further includes stabilizing a first voltage of the first drain node and a second voltage of the second drain node responsive to the tuning voltage.
US08581644B2 System and method providing bandwidth adjustment in integral path of phase locked loop circuitry
A system incorporating and method of operating phase locked loop circuitry. In one embodiment, having programmable circuitry for adjustment of loop dynamics, a VCO has a first input terminal for selecting phase and frequency characteristics of an output signal and an output terminal on which the output signal is provided. A detector generates first VCO input signals indicative of phase and frequency differences between the VCO output signal and a reference signal. Circuitry digitizes the first VCO input signals and generates an integral path input signal therefrom. Slow integral path circuitry comprising, a first transistor device and a programmable low pass filter: receives the integral path input signal, and provides a low pass filtered version of the integral path input signal to control conduction through the first transistor device and provide a first adjustment signal for adjustment of the frequency of the VCO output signal.
US08581643B1 Phase-lock loop-based clocking system, methods and apparatus
In part, the invention relates to an optical coherence tomography system that includes one or more phased-locked loop circuits. In one embodiment, the phased-locked loop circuit includes a phase detector, a loop filter, and a voltage controlled oscillator wherein the phased-locked loop circuit is configured to generate a sample clock. The optical coherence tomography system can include an analog to digital converter having a sample clock input, an interferometric signal input, and a sample data output, the analog to digital converter configured to receive the sample clock and sample OCT data in response thereto. In one embodiment, the phased-locked loop circuit is configured to lock on a first signal in less than or equal to about 1 microseconds.
US08581639B2 Differential output circuit
A differential output circuit is controlled according to its mode of operation. While in the first mode, the differential output circuit controls a current flow through a variable current source according to an impedance of the variable current source, and while in the second mode, the differential output circuit compares a voltage at a monitored node and a reference voltage and controls the current flow through the variable current source to make the voltage at the monitored node to be equal to the reference voltage.
US08581637B2 Low-power, low-latency power-gate apparatus and method
A low-power, low-latency power-gate (LPLLPG) circuit is used to shut off or otherwise reduce power that is provided to electronic component(s), such as in a sleep or standby mode. ON-rush current is controlled by sizing at least one transistor in the power-gate circuit, and power consumption of the power-gate circuit in both standby state and active state is reduced by not using additional delay elements. Ramping up a gated voltage supply with low ON-rush current is performed by applying/using logic rather than delay signals. This logic does not turn ON transistors in the power-gate circuit until the gated voltage supply has ramped up close to a level of an ungated voltage supply. By not using additional delay cells, faster turn OFF of the gated voltage supply is obtained.
US08581623B2 Lookup table, semiconductor integrated circuit, method for making lookup table and method for making semiconductor integrated circuit
A lookup table includes a single via layer having 2N via insertion portions corresponding to 2N input patterns provided from N input terminals; and a via inserted into at least one of the via insertion portions, the via connecting the input terminal and an output terminal.
US08581613B2 Transmission-modulated photoconductive decay measurement system
A system and method for measuring recombination lifetime of a photoconductor or semiconductor material in real time and without physically contacting the material involving positioning the sample material between a transmitter and a receiver so that electromagnetic signals, preferably radio frequency signals, traveling from the transmitter to the receiver pass through the sample material. The electromagnetic signals are modulated as they pass through the sample material depending on the carrier density and conductivity of the sample material. The modulated electromagnetic signals received by the receiver are then analyzed to determine the carrier recombination lifetime of the sample material.
US08581608B2 Apparatus and method for detecting abnormality in solar cell power generation system
The present invention provides an apparatus for easily detecting an abnormal status of power generation of a solar cell panel in a solar cell power generation system having the power generation of 1 MW or higher.The present invention provides an abnormality detecting apparatus for a solar cell power generation system including a plurality of solar cell strings each having a plurality of solar cell modules connected to each other in series and a backflow preventing diode connected to a power output terminal of each of the solar cell strings, characterized in that the abnormality detecting apparatus further includes measuring means for measuring a current flowing in the backflow preventing diode; and that the measuring means is supplied with electric power from both terminals of the backflow preventing diode.
US08581602B2 Method and apparatus for nondestructive measuring of a coating thickness on a curved surface
An improved method and apparatus for non-destructive measurements of coating thicknesses on a curved surface by measuring components of the microwave energy reflected from the surface. Preferred embodiments of the present invention provide a portable microwave thickness detector with a rounded rocker-type base allowing the microwave beam to be moved through a range of angles with respect to the target surface. An optical alignment system determines when the microwave angle of incidence is at a desired angle when the components of the reflected microwave energy are measured. Preferred embodiments of the present invention also provide a portable microwave thickness detector which maintains a constant standoff distance between the between the microwave detector and the sample to be measured.
US08581597B2 Application of wideband sampling for arc detection with a probabilistic model for quantitatively measuring arc events
An arc detection system for a plasma generation system includes a radio frequency (RF) sensor that generates first and second signals based on a respective electrical properties of (RF) power that is in communication with a plasma chamber. A correlation module generates an arc detect signal based on the first and second signals. The arc detect signal indicates whether an arc is occurring in the plasma chamber and is employed to vary an aspect of the RF power to extinguish the arc.
US08581596B2 Current leakage detector of construction machine
An inverter is forcibly operated to supply electric power to a motor, thereby performing detection of a current leakage, on condition that a power-on operation is performed, that the motor is stopped, and that determination as to occurrence or non-occurrence of the current leakage has not yet been made even once after the power-on.
US08581592B2 Downhole methods and assemblies employing an at-bit antenna
Logging tools and methods employing an at-bit loop antenna to acquire azimuthal resistivity measurements proximate to the bit enable low-latency geosteering signals to be generated. In some embodiments, the at-bit antenna is part of a bottom hole assembly that includes a drill bit, a mud motor, and a resistivity tool. The mud motor is positioned between the at-bit antenna and the resistivity tool. The resistivity tool includes at least one loop antenna that is not parallel to the at-bit loop antenna. The at-bit antenna is part of an at-bit module that, in some embodiments, transmits periodic electromagnetic signal pulses for the resistivity tool to measure. In other embodiments, the at-bit module measures characteristics of electromagnetic signal pulses sent by the resistivity tool and communicates the measured characteristics to the resistivity tool via a short hop telemetry link.
US08581582B2 MRI non-contrast time-slip angiography using variably positioned cine sub-sequence
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system using an MRI gantry and controlling computer system includes at least one programmed computer configured to effect a cardiac-triggered time-SLIP (spatial labeling inversion pulse) MRI data acquisition sequence for imaging blood perfusion in imaged patient tissue and employing therewithin an MRI cine sub-sequence. The sub-sequence is positioned in the time domain to encompass at least part of a predetermined (e.g., diastolic) cardiac time interval of the patient. Processing acquired data from the time-SLIP data acquisition sequence generates a sequence of MRI cine frame images having respectively associated different effective BBTI (black blood time to inversion) time intervals. Identifying one of the MRI cine frame images as acceptable, thereby effectively also determines an appropriate BBTI time interval for the patient. The system then outputs a time-SLIP image based on the determined appropriate BBTI time interval to at least one of (a) a display, (b) a remote system or (c) a non-transitory storage medium.
US08581574B2 Logarithmic mean-square power detector
A mean square power detector in accordance with one or more embodiments includes a gain or attenuation circuit comprising a plurality of gain or attenuation elements arranged for generating a plurality of amplified or attenuated versions of a radio frequency (RF) input signal. The mean square power detector also includes a plurality of mean square detectors coupled to the gain or attenuation circuit. Each of the mean square detectors receives a different one of the plurality of amplified or attenuated versions of the RF input signal. Each of the plurality of mean square detectors generates an output signal representative of the mean square power of the RF input signal for a different input signal level range. A summing element is coupled to the plurality of mean square detectors for combining the output signals of the plurality of mean square detectors to generate a signal representative of the mean square or root mean square of the RF input signal.
US08581573B2 Circuit for measuring the effective current of a signal to be monitored
The present invention relates to a circuit for measuring an effective current (ieff(t)) of a signal to be monitored (i(t)), where the circuit includes means for making a continuous reference signal (iDC(t)) depend on the signal to be monitored (i(t)) so that the effective current (iDCeff(t)) of the continuous reference signal (iDC(t)) is equal to the effective current (ieff(t)) of the signal to be monitored (i(t)).
US08581570B2 Frequency error detection apparatus
Embodiments are provided: a known signal extraction circuit a distributing arrangement circuit which distributes a known signal in a fixed section; a frequency conversion circuit which causes the distributed output to be a frequency-domain signal; a delay detection circuit which determines an amount of phase variation between adjacent frequency components in the frequency-domain signal; a distributing arrangement circuit which distributes a signal of the same sequence as the known signal described above in a fixed section; a frequency conversion circuit which causes the distributed output to be a frequency-domain signal; a delay detection circuit which determines an amount of phase variation between adjacent frequency components in the frequency-domain signal; a correlation operation circuit which obtains a correlation value between two delay detection outputs; and a peak detection circuit which detects one or more high power peaks among the correlation values and obtain frequency difference from a reference value.
US08581569B2 Supply independent current reference generator in CMOS technology
A current reference generator including a current network, a bias network, and a loop amplifier. The current network includes first and second transistors of a first conductivity type and third, fourth and fifth transistors of a second conductivity type. The first, third and fifth transistors are series-coupled between voltage supply lines forming a first current path, and the second and fourth transistors are series-coupled between the supply lines forming a second current path. The control terminals of the first and second transistors are coupled together and the control terminals of the third and fourth transistors are coupled together. The bias network biases the fifth transistor. The loop amplifier is coupled to the current network and is operative to maintain constant current level through the first and second current paths independent of voltage variations of the supply lines and at very low supply voltage.
US08581564B2 Switching power supply apparatus
A switching power supply apparatus includes: an output transistor to generate an output voltage from an input voltage based on an ON/OFF control of the output transistor; a reference voltage generating unit to generate a reference voltage; a ripple injection unit to inject a ripple component into the reference voltage to generate a ripple reference voltage; a comparator to compare a feedback voltage with the ripple reference voltage to generate a comparison signal; and a switching controller to perform the ON/OFF control of the output transistor based on the comparison signal.
US08581562B2 SIDO power converter and driving method thereof
The present invention relates to a Single Inductor Double Output (SIDO) power converter, which includes a power-stage circuit, a current detector, a slope compensation device, at least two error amplifiers, a comparing unit, a mode exchange circuit, a logical device and a driver. The SIDO current converter achieves an optimal SIDO power converting efficiency by controlling a full-current mode. Furthermore, different power transferring modes, under a variety of loadings, are used to address the issue of cross regulation and at meanwhile solving output voltage ripples and transient response to ensure the SIDO power converter a more flexible usage environment and better output performance.
US08581556B2 Protection circuit and battery pack having current varying circuit to vary current flowing through power terminal
A protection circuit includes a detector to detect an overcharging or an excessive discharging of a battery, from a voltage of a power terminal coupled to the battery, a controller to generate a control signal to stop the charging or the discharging of the battery when a detection of the overcharging or the excessive discharging is continuously detected by the detector for a predetermined time, and a current varying circuit to vary a current flowing through the power terminal only for a certain time when the detector detects the overcharging or the excessive discharging of the battery.
US08581548B2 Integrated cell balancing system, method, and computer program for multi-cell batteries
A cell balancing software program that executes on a computer system embedded inside a multi-cell battery and includes a means to control an external charging system. When a charge imbalance is detected between the cells, a cell balancing algorithm is selected from a plurality of cell-balancing algorithms and is executed. The executed algorithm causes a charge request, which specifies desired charging parameter(s), to be generated, and the charge request is transmitted to the external charging system. After the external charging system charges the battery according to the charge request, the effectiveness of the cell-balancing algorithm can be evaluated and stored in a history. The history can be used to select cell balancing algorithm(s) for future cell balancing.
US08581545B2 Power exchange system
A power exchange system for exchanging power between a power supply system of an installation and a battery of a vehicle includes an installation-side charger/discharger, a vehicle-side charger/discharger coupled to the installation-side charger/discharger to exchange the power, and a vehicle-side controller having a determination section and a setting section. The determination section determines whether the installation is equipped with an installation-side controller that controls power distribution in the power supply system. The setting section sets one of the installation-side controller and the vehicle-side controller as a power command center based on a result of determination by the determination section. The power command center commands one of the installation-side charger/discharger and the vehicle-side charger/discharger to charge/discharge the battery based on information of the battery and information of the power supply system.
US08581542B2 Receive antenna arrangement for wireless power
Exemplary embodiments are directed to wireless charging. An electronic device may comprise at least one receive antenna integrated within an electronic device and configured to receive wireless power from a wireless transmit antenna. Further, the at least one receive antenna may be spaced from each conductive component within the electronic device having a clearance therebetween adapted to enable formation of a magnetic field around the loop conductor.
US08581539B2 Efficient circuit for brushless low cogging machine with congruent stator
Simple AC circuitry driving a brush-less motor having a rotor consisting of alternate polarity permanent magnet poles, with the rotor journaled in a stator with a like number of wound poles having only two free ends for energizing. The motor is using only two AC electronic switches for starting and accelerating, and an AC switch to run the motor at synchronous speed. It has higher efficiency than previously known circuits, uses less parts and is less costly.
US08581534B2 Method and motor driving circuit for adjusting rotational speed of motor
A method for adjusting rotational speed of a motor is also disclosed. The method includes determining whether an input voltage of the motor enters into a predetermined voltage range; generating a pulse width modulation signal when the input voltage of the motor enters into the predetermined voltage range; and driving the motor to rotate according to the pulse width modulation signal.
US08581519B2 Current-switching LED driver using DAC to ramp bypass currents to accelerate switching speed and reduce ripple
A light-emitting diode (LED) driver provides faster rise and fall times for LED current to reduce image sticking and other interference. A standard DC-DC converter provides a sum current that is slowly ramped up and down by a bypass current digital-to-analog converter (DAC). A digital value to the bypass current DAC is ramped up or down before an LED current is turned on or off. When the LED current is turned on, current is shifted from a bypass path to a path through the LED, maintaining a constant sum current from the DC-DC converter. When a different LED is turned on, current is shifted from one LED's path to the other LED's path. Separate LED current DAC's in each LED path and in the bypass path can share the sum current with digital precision. Using a single DAC for the sum current and switches in each path reduces cost.
US08581518B2 Triac dimmer compatible switching mode power supply and method thereof
Triac dimmer compatible switching mode power supplies used as LED drivers are disclosed herein. A PFC controller is configured in the switching mode power supplies. With the PFC controller, the current keeping the triac in the on-state is supplied by the DC/DC converter, and the LC resonance is reduced.
US08581513B1 Battery powered wireless DMX led lighting system
A DMX based wireless, light emitting device and system including wireless modules that are battery powered and wirelessly receive and transmit DMX to other modules or a controller device. The modules can optionally be hard wired to both a DMX signal and external power supply. An integrated processor can independently control a pre-selected lighting effects, channels, addresses, programs and other light effect features.
US08581512B2 Light source module, lighting apparatus, and illumination device using the same
A light source module includes: a light source unit including a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) electrically connected to each other; a characteristic setting unit for setting characteristic information on electrical characteristics of the LEDs; a first pin base having a first electrode and a second electrode; and a second pin base having a third electrode and a fourth electrode, wherein a direct current (DC) voltage supplied from a lighting apparatus is applied between the first electrode and the second electrode or between the third electrode and the fourth electrode, a constant voltage is supplied to an anode side of the LEDs of the light source unit, and the characteristic setting unit is connected between the first and second electrodes and/or between the third and fourth electrodes.
US08581509B2 Driving circuit having a power factor correction (PFC) function
A driving circuit having a power factor correction (PFC) function includes a power converter, a harmonic wave generator, a voltage divider, and a modify element. The power converter receives AC power to convert to DC power. The harmonic wave generator generates a harmonic wave from the DC power. The voltage level of the harmonic wave is decreased by the voltage divider to generate a comparing signal. The modify element compares the comparing signal and a feedback current signal of the LED to regulate the DC power accordingly for power-supplying the LED stably. Therefore the power factor (PF) of the driving circuit is enhanced.
US08581504B2 Switching power converter control with triac-based leading edge dimmer compatibility
In at least one embodiment, a controller allows triac-based dimmer to properly function and dim a load whose voltage is regulated by a switching power converter. In at least one embodiment, the switching power converter includes a switch to control voltage conversion of an input voltage to the switching power converter, wherein phase delays are introduced in the input voltage by a triac-based dimmer during a dimming period. In at least one embodiment, the controller is configured to control the switch of the switching power converter to establish an input resistance of the switching power converter during a dimming portion of the input voltage, wherein the input resistance allows the triac-based dimmer to phase modulate a supply voltage to the dimmer so that an output voltage of the dimmer has a substantially uninterrupted phase delay during each half-cycle of the supply voltage during the dimming period.
US08581502B2 Circuit for light emitting diodes, related integrated circuit and control method
A control circuit controls driving of an LED and a current-controlled device controls current through the LED. The current-controlled device has a control node. The control circuit has a driving circuit and a fault detector. In the driving circuit, a first comparator compares a current-setting signal with a sensing signal to generate a first comparison signal. Based on the first comparison signal, a buffer generates a driving signal to the control node and drives the current-controlled device. Within the fault detector, a second comparator compares the first comparison signal with the driving signal, generating a second comparison signal. A third comparator compares the driving signal with a threshold voltage, generating a third comparison signal. A fourth comparator compares the sensing signal with the current-setting signal, generating a fourth comparison signal. A decision maker enables or disables the driving circuit according to the second, third, and fourth comparison signals.
US08581500B2 System for manufacturing power supply unit and method for manufacturing power supply unit, and flicker measurement apparatus
A method of manufacturing a power supply unit (PSU) is provided. The method includes providing at least one PSU supplying a dimming signal to at least one light source, performing a first test for electrical characteristics of the at least one PSU, detecting light emitted from the at least one light source, measuring a flicker of the at least one light source, and performing a second test for a state of the at least one PSU based on a flicker measurement result, and packing a PSU determined to be in a normal state among the at least one PSU, as a result of the first test and the second test.
US08581496B2 Self-igniting long arc plasma torch
A plasma torch is formed from a hollow electrode forming a first gap to an isolated plasma tube, the isolated plasma tube forming a second gap with a plasma outlet tube having electrically common plasma tubes which terminate into a plasma outlet. The first gap and second gap of the isolated plasma tubes are fed by a source of plasma gas such that when a voltage is applied across the electrodes, plasmas initially form across the first plasma gap and second plasma gap. The formed plasmas spread laterally until the plasmas are formed entirely from electrode to electrode and self-sustaining. Plasma gasses which are fed to the plasma torch can be metered on both sides of the electrodes to steer the plasma arc attachment axially over the extent of the hollow electrodes, thereby reducing surface wear and increasing electrode life.
US08581490B2 Light-emitting diode die packages and illumination apparatuses using same
The present invention relates to an LED die package, which has a light-emitting diode die having a sapphire layer, a first doped layer doped with a p- or n-type dopant, and a second doped layer doped with a different dopant from that doped in the first doped layer. A surface of the sapphire layer opposite to the surface on which the first doped layer is disposed is formed with generally inverted-pyramidal-shaped recesses and overlaid with a phosphor powder layer. Each of the first and the second doped layers has an electrode-forming surface formed with an electrode, on which an insulation layer is disposed and formed with exposure holes for exposing the electrodes. The exposure holes are each filled with an electrically conductive linker.
US08581479B2 Light-emittng device having a resin to control directivity to enhance luminous efficiency
A light-emitting device includes a first lead frame, a light-emitting element fixed to the first lead frame, and a second lead frame electrically connected via a metal wire to the light-emitting element. In addition, the light-emitting device includes a resin that covers the first lead frame, the light-emitting element, and the second lead frame, and functions as a transmission medium for light emitted from the light-emitting element. The resin has a side surface which is perpendicular to the face to which the light-emitting element has been fixed, and an upper surface. The resin surfaces are configured so that the angle of incidence of a portion of the light emitted from the light-emitting element to the side surfaces is larger than a critical angle needed for total reflection of the light incident on the side surfaces.
US08581478B2 Cooling member for semiconductor light emitting elements
A cooling member for at least one semiconductor light emitting element, in particular an LED, may include a mounting cavity for accommodating at least part of a control electronics unit, whereby the cooling member is composed of multiple cooling member parts, whereby each of which cooling member parts includes part of a wall of the mounting cavity.
US08581454B2 Handheld device with thermal padding
A handheld device comprises a housing, a motor, and a thermally conductive pad disposed in a space between the motor and the housing. Heat generated by the motor can be conducted by the thermal pad to the housing or to an internal fluid passage generally extending the length of the motor. In some embodiments, the thermal pad is configured to maintain the temperature of the housing in accordance with industry guidelines.
US08581449B2 Portable power source to provide power to an electronic device via an interface
A portable power source is configured for use with an electronic device. The portable power source cooperates and communicates with the electronic device via a peripheral bus to which the electronic device is attachable. The portable power source includes circuitry to process a power request signal from the electronic device to determine whether a device connected to a bus interface of the portable power source is requesting power from the portable power source.
US08581441B2 Distributed inverter and intelligent gateway
A system and apparatus for generating power. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a power module for coupling to a DC power source via a DC bus, wherein the power module (i) converts a first power from the DC power source to a second power, and (ii) comprises a maximum power point tracking module unit for dynamically adjusting a load voltage of the DC power source; an AC bus; and a controller, physically separate from the power module and coupled to the power module via the AC bus, for operatively controlling the power module.
US08581438B2 Providing power to powered device having multiple power supply inputs
A system for providing power to a load, having first and second power supply inputs respectively responsive to first and second input signals from first and second power supply sources to supply power to the load. For example, the first power supply input may be configured for supplying the load with power received from a communication link, such as an Ethernet link, and the second power supply input may be configured for supplying the load with power from an auxiliary power source. A power converter is provided to produce an output signal for supplying power to the load in response to the second input signal. The power converter is controlled to produce the output signal in accordance with a value of the first input signal.
US08581435B2 Wind turbine having multiple power generating elements
Embodiments of the present disclosure include a wind turbine and a method of operating thereof. The wind turbine includes a central rod comprising an electrical coil and at least one rotating assembly configured to rotate around the central rod. The rotating assembly includes a wheel and a plurality of airfoils disposed around a perimeter of the wheel. The wind turbine also includes a magnet coupled to the at least one rotating assembly and configured to rotate around the central rod.
US08581431B2 Completely submerged wave energy converter
A wave energy converter apparatus comprising at least two members joined by a connector movable so as to allow displacement of the members relative to one another in response to waves in water where the apparatus is located. The apparatus also includes an energy converter for converting motion of the connector to electrical energy, and a device for storing and/or transporting elsewhere the energy produced. The members, when in use and located in a body of water, are non-floating and completely submerged, the apparatus, as a whole, being neutrally buoyant. A member is additionally provided for maintaining each of the submerged members substantially at rest relative to the surrounding water with which they are in contact, such that the submerged members move under wave-induced action substantially in the same manner as a water particle would move under wave-induced action if located in the same region as the respective submerged member.
US08581428B2 Wind turbine comprising insulation monitoring system
The present invention concerns a wind turbine comprising a generator, a controller and a measurement equipment connected to the generator, the measurement equipment being adapted to measuring at least one quality parameter indicating the quality of generator insulation of the generator, and the measurement equipment being adapted to transmitting the at least one quality parameter to the controller, wherein the controller is adapted to evaluate the at least one quality parameter according to a quality criterion and set up an alarm signal in accordance with the evaluation. Further, the invention relates to a method for upgrading a wind turbine.
US08581423B2 Double solid metal pad with reduced area
An integrated circuit structure includes a bond pad; an Mtop pad located directly underlying the bond pad; an Mtop-1 pad having at least a portion directly underlying the Mtop pad, wherein at least one of the Mtop pad and the Mtop-1 pad has a horizontal dimension smaller than a horizontal dimension of the bond pad; a plurality of vias interconnecting the Mtop pad and the Mtop-1 pad; and a bond ball on the bond pad. Each of the Mtop pad and the Mtop-1 pad has positive enclosures to the bond ball in all horizontal directions.
US08581419B2 Multi-chip stack structure
A multi-chip stack structure including a first chip, a second chip, a shielding layer, and a plurality of conductive bumps is provided. The second chip is stacked on the first chip. The second chip has a plurality of through silicon via (TSV) structures to conduct a reference voltage. The shielding layer and the plurality of conductive bumps are disposed between the first chip and the second chip, and are electrically connected to the plurality of TSV structures. The shielding layer can isolate noises and improve signal coupling between two adjacent chips.
US08581418B2 Multi-die stacking using bumps with different sizes
A device includes a first die having a first side and a second side opposite to first side, the first side includes a first region and a second region, and a first metal bump of a first horizontal size formed on the first region of the first side of the first die. A second die is bonded to the first side of the first die through the first metal bump. A dielectric layer is formed over the first side of the first die and includes a first portion directly over the second die, a second portion encircling the second die, and an opening exposing the second region of the first side of the first die. A second metal bump of a second horizontal size is formed on the second region of the first side of the first die and extending into the opening of the dielectric layer. The second horizontal size is greater than the first horizontal size. An electrical component is bonded to the first side of the first die through the second metal bump.
US08581415B2 Semiconductor device and a method of manufacturing the same
For simplifying the dual-damascene formation steps of a multilevel Cu interconnect, a formation step of an antireflective film below a photoresist film is omitted. Described specifically, an interlayer insulating film is dry etched with a photoresist film formed thereover as a mask, and interconnect trenches are formed by terminating etching at the surface of a stopper film formed in the interlayer insulating film. The stopper film is made of an SiCN film having a low optical reflectance, thereby causing it to serve as an antireflective film when the photoresist film is exposed.
US08581411B2 Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device comprises a GaAs substrate having a first major surface and a second major surface opposite to each other; a first metal layer composed of at least one of Pd, Ta, and Mo on the first major surface of the GaAs substrate; and a second metal layer composed of a Ni alloy or Ni on the first metal layer.
US08581407B2 Electronic system modules and method of fabrication
This specification describes techniques for manufacturing an electronic system module. The module includes flexible multi-layer interconnection circuits with trace widths of 5 microns or less. A glass panel manufacturing facility, similar to those employed for making liquid crystal display, LCD, panels is used to fabricate the interconnection circuits. A polymer base layer is formed on a glass carrier with an intermediate release layer. Alternate layers of metal and dielectric are formed on the base layer, and patterned to create an array of multi-layer interconnection circuits on the glass panel. A thick layer of polymer is deposited on the interconnection circuit, and openings formed at input/output (I/O) pad locations. Solder paste is deposited in the openings to form wells filled with solder. After dicing the glass carrier to form separated interconnection circuits, IC chips are stud bumped and assembled using flip chip bonding, wherein the stud bumps on the components are inserted into corresponding wells on the interconnection circuits. The IC chips are tested and reworked to form tested circuit assemblies. Methods for connecting to testers and to other modules and electronic systems are described. Module packaging layers are provided for hermetic sealing and for electromagnetic shielding. A blade server embodiment is also described.
US08581405B2 Integrated circuit having a semiconductor substrate with barrier layer
An integrated circuit having a semiconductor substrate with a barrier layer is disclosed. The arrangement includes a semiconductor substrate and a metallic element. A carbon-based barrier layer is disposed between the semiconductor substrate and the metallic element.
US08581403B2 Electronic component mounting structure, electronic component mounting method, and electronic component mounting board
In an electronic component mounting structure, a semiconductor element (an electronic component) provided with an electrode pad and a board provide with an electrode pad corresponding to the electrode pad are connected via a conductive material portion. On a surface of the board, there is formed solder resist having an opening regulating an area of the electrode pad. The conductive material portion is formed to protrude from a surface of the solder resist. An elastic coefficient of the conductive material portion is lower than that of the solder resist. A solder bump and the conductive material portion are connected via a metal layer. The conductive material portion is formed to have an area larger than that of the opening of the solder resist. An edge of the conductive material portion is adhered to a portion of the surface of the solder resist. Thus, in a case of mounting an electronic component on a board by flip-chip connection, a reliability of connection can be secured.
US08581400B2 Post-passivation interconnect structure
A semiconductor device includes a passivation layer, a first protective layer, an interconnect layer, and a second protective layer successively formed on a semiconductor substrate. The interconnect layer has an exposed portion, on which a barrier layer and a solder bump are formed. At least one of the passivation layer, the first protective layer, the interconnect layer and the second protective layer includes at least one slot formed in a region outside a conductive pad region.
US08581399B2 Metal bump structure
A semiconductor device comprises a substrate comprising a major surface and a plurality of metal bumps on the major surface. Each of the plurality of metal bumps comprises a metal via on the major surface and a metal pillar on the metal via having an overlay offset between the metal pillar and metal via. A first metal bump of the metal bumps has a first overlay offset and a second metal bump of the metal bumps farther than the first metal bump to a centroid of the substrate has a second overlay offset greater than the first overlay offset.
US08581394B2 Semiconductor package module and electric circuit assembly with the same
Disclosed herein is a semiconductor package module. The semiconductor package module includes a circuit substrate having an external connection pattern; electronic components mounted on the circuit substrate; a molding structure having a structure surrounding the circuit substrate so as to seal the electronic components from the external environment; and an external connection structure of which one portion is connected to the external connection pattern and the other portion is exposed to the outside of the molding structure.
US08581393B2 Thermally conductive LED assembly
A thermally conductive LED assembly is disclosed. The thermally conductive LED assembly includes an elongate conductor cable having a first conductor and a second conductor extending along a length of the elongate conductor cable and a thermally conducting and electrically insulating polymer layer disposed between first conductor and second conductor and a second electrically insulating polymer layer is disposed on the first conductor or second conductor. The electrically insulating polymer layer having a thermal impedance value in a range from 2.5 to 15 C.°-cm2/W and a plurality of light emitting diodes are disposed along the length of the elongate conductor cable. Each light emitting diode is in electrical communication with the first conductor and the second conductor.
US08581390B2 Semiconductor device with heat dissipation
A semiconductor assembly includes a semiconductor device and a connecting structure. The semiconductor device includes an interconnect region over a semiconductor substrate and a pillar layer having a plurality of pillar contacts on the interconnect region. The pillar layer also includes a plurality of radial heat conductors that have at least a portion overlying a heat source that is within and overlies the semiconductor substrate. Each radial heat conductor extends a length radially from the heat source that is at least twice as great as the diameter of the pillars. The connecting structure includes a connecting substrate that supports a first corresponding pillar contact that is in contact with a first pillar contact of the plurality of pillar contacts. The first connecting structure further includes a heat conductor, supported by the substrate, in contact with a first radial heat conductor of the plurality of radial heat conductors.
US08581386B2 Chip package
An embodiment of the invention provides a chip package, which includes: a semiconductor substrate having a device region and a non-device region neighboring the device region; a package layer disposed on the semiconductor substrate; a spacing layer disposed between the semiconductor substrate and the package layer and surrounding the device region and the non-device region; a ring structure disposed between the semiconductor substrate and the package layer, and between the spacing layer and the device region, and surrounding a portion of the non-device region; and an auxiliary pattern including a hollow pattern formed in the spacing layer or the ring structure, a material pattern located between the spacing layer and the device region, or combinations thereof.
US08581383B2 3-D semiconductor die structure with containing feature and method
A die-on-die assembly has a first die (10) and a second die (50). The first die (10) has a first contact extension (28,42) and a peg (32,44,45) extending a first height above the first die. The second die (50) has a second contact extension (68) connected to the first contact extension and has a containing feature (62) extending a second height above the second die surrounding the peg. The peg extends past the containing feature. Because the peg extends past the containing feature, lateral movement between the first and second die can cause the peg to come in contact with and be constrained by the containing feature. The peg and containing feature are thus useful in constraining movement between the first and second die.
US08581380B2 Integrated circuit packaging system with ultra-thin die
An integrated circuit packaging system with ultra-thin die is provided including providing an ultra-thin integrated circuit stack, having a vertical sidewall contact, including providing a semiconductor wafer having an active side, forming a solder bump on the active side of the semiconductor wafer, forming a support layer over the solder bump and the active side of the semiconductor wafer, forming an ultra-thin wafer from the semiconductor wafer and singulating the ultra-thin integrated circuit stack for exposing the vertical sidewall contact, mounting the ultra-thin integrated circuit stack on a substrate, and coupling the substrate to the vertical sidewall contact.
US08581376B2 Stacked dual chip package and method of fabrication
The present invention is directed to a lead-frame having a stack of semiconductor dies with interposed metalized clip structure. Level projections extend from the clip structure to ensure that the clip structure remains level during fabrication.
US08581373B2 Tape package
A tape package providing a plurality of input and output portions each having a minimum pitch. The tape package includes a tape wiring substrate including first and second wirings, and a semiconductor chip mounted on the tape wiring substrate, and including a first edge, a first pad disposed adjacent to the first edge, and a second pad disposed to be farther spaced apart from the first edge than the first pad, where the first wiring is connected to a portion of the first pad that is spaced from the first edge by a first distance, and where the second wiring is connected to a portion of the second pad that is spaced from the first edge by a second distance that is greater than the first distance.
US08581365B2 Bipolar junction transistor with layout controlled base and associated methods of manufacturing
The present technology discloses a bipolar junction transistor (BJT) device integrated into a semiconductor substrate. The BJT device comprises a collector, a base and an emitter. The collector is of a first doping type on the substrate; the base is of a second doping type in the collector from the top surface of the semiconductor device and the base has a base depth; and the emitter is of a first doping type in the base from the top surface of the semiconductor device. The base depth is controlled by adjusting a layout width in forming the base.
US08581362B2 Wireless communication devices with in-package integrated passive components
Embodiments of the present disclosure can be used to both reduce the size and cost and improve the performance and power consumption of next generation wireless communication devices. In particular, embodiments enable board and semiconductor substrate area savings by using the fabrication package (which encapsulates the semiconductor substrate) as a design element in the design of next generation wireless communication devices. Specifically, embodiments use the substrate of the fabrication package to integrate into it components of the wireless radio transceiver (which are conventionally integrated into the semiconductor substrate) and other discrete components of the communication device (which are conventionally placed on the board of the device). As such, reduced board and semiconductor area can be realized.
US08581361B2 Semiconductor apparatus
A power supply wiring and a pad are arranged on a first wiring layer. Then, the power supply wiring and the pad are arranged so as not to be mutually overlapped. Signal wirings are arranged on a second wiring layer. Another signal wiring is arranged on a layer different from the second wiring layer. The other signal wiring is arranged below the pad so as to be overlapped with the pad. The signal wirings and the other signal wiring are mutually connected by a plug. A buffer is arranged between the pad and the other signal wiring.
US08581351B2 Replacement gate with reduced gate leakage current
Replacement gate work function material stacks are provided, which provides a work function about the energy level of the conduction band of silicon. After removal of a disposable gate stack, a gate dielectric layer is formed in a gate cavity. A metallic compound layer including a metal and a non-metal element is deposited directly on the gate dielectric layer. At least one barrier layer and a conductive material layer is deposited and planarized to fill the gate cavity. The metallic compound layer includes a material having a work function about 4.4 eV or less, and can include a material selected from tantalum carbide and a hafnium-silicon alloy. Thus, the metallic compound layer can provide a work function that enhances the performance of an n-type field effect transistor employing a silicon channel.
US08581345B2 Charge-balance power device comprising columnar structures and having reduced resistance, and method and system of same
An embodiment of a charge-balance power device formed in an epitaxial layer having a first conductivity type and housing at least two columns of a second conductivity type, which extend through the epitaxial layer. A first and a second surface region of the second conductivity type extend along the surface of the epitaxial layer on top of, and in contact with, a respective one of the columns, and a second and a third surface region of the first conductivity type extends within the first and the second surface region, respectively, facing the surface of the epitaxial layer. The columns extend at a distance from each other and are arranged staggered to one another with respect to a first direction and partially facing one another with respect to a second direction transversal to the first direction.
US08581343B1 Electrical connectivity for circuit applications
According to example configurations herein, a leadframe includes a first conductive strip, a second conductive strip, and a third conductive strip disposed substantially adjacent and substantially parallel to each other. A semiconductor chip substrate includes a first array of switch circuits disposed adjacent and parallel to a second array of switch circuits. Source nodes in switch circuits of the first array are disposed substantially adjacent and substantially parallel to source nodes in switch circuits of the second array. When the semiconductor chip and the leadframe device are combined to form a circuit package, a connectivity interface between the semiconductor chip and conductive strips in the circuit package couples each of the source nodes in switch circuits of the first array and each of the multiple source nodes in switch circuits of the second array to a common conductive strip in the leadframe device.
US08581341B2 Power MOSFET with embedded recessed field plate and methods of fabrication
Semiconductor power devices, and related methods, wherein a recessed contact makes lateral ohmic contact to the source diffusion, but is insulated from the underlying recessed field plate (RFP). Such an insulated RFP is here referred to as an embedded recessed field plate (ERFP).
US08581340B2 Semiconductor device of which breakdown voltage is improved
A semiconductor device includes: a semiconductor substrate; a gate electrode formed on the semiconductor substrate through a gate insulating film; a source diffusion layer and a drain diffusion layer formed on both sides of the gate electrode, respectively, in the semiconductor substrate; and a field drain section formed below the gate electrode in the semiconductor substrate so as to be positioned between the gate electrode and the drain diffusion region and include an insulator. The field drain section includes: a first insulating film configured to be contact with the semiconductor substrate, and a second insulating film configured to be formed on the first insulating film and has a dielectric constant higher than a dielectric constant of the first insulating film.
US08581334B2 Via structures and semiconductor devices having the via structures
A via structure may include a first conductive pattern, a buffer pattern, and a second conductive pattern. The first conductive pattern may be on an inner wall of a first substrate and the inner wall may define a via hole passing at least partially through the first substrate. The buffer pattern may be on the first conductive pattern and the buffer pattern may partially fill the via hole. The second conductive pattern may be on a top surface of the buffer pattern in the via hole.
US08581324B2 Area-efficient electrically erasable programmable memory cell
Electrically erasable programmable “read-only” memory (EEPROM) cells in an integrated circuit, and formed by a single polysilicon level. The EEPROM cell consists of a coupling capacitor and a combined read transistor and tunneling capacitor. The capacitance of the coupling capacitor is much larger than that of the tunneling capacitor. In one embodiment, field oxide isolation structures isolate the devices from one another; a lightly-doped region at the source of the read transistor improves breakdown voltage performance. In another embodiment, trench isolation structures and a buried oxide layer surround the well regions at which the coupling capacitor and combined read transistor and tunneling capacitor are formed.
US08581322B2 Nonvolatile memory device and method for making the same
A method for making a nonvolatile memory device includes the following steps. A conductive structure is formed, wherein the conductive structure has a first top portion. The first top portion is converted into a second top portion having a domed surface.
US08581312B2 Thin film transistor array panel and manufacturing method thereof
A thin film transistor array panel includes: a substrate including a display area and a drive region in which a driving chip for transmitting a driving signal to the pixels is located; a gate line in the display area; a storage electrode line; a gate driving pad coupled to the driving chip; a gate insulating layer; a first semiconductor layer on the gate insulating layer and overlapped with a gate electrode protruding from the gate line; a second semiconductor layer formed on the gate insulating layer and overlapped with a sustain electrode protruding from the storage electrode line; a data line crossing the gate line in an insulated manner and a drain electrode separated from the data line; and a pixel electrode coupled to the drain electrode, and the drain electrode comprises a drain bar facing the source electrode, and a drain extender overlapped with the second semiconductor layer.
US08581309B2 Semiconductor device
An object is to realize high performance and low power consumption in a semiconductor device having an SOI structure. In addition, another object is to provide a semiconductor device having a high performance semiconductor element which is more highly integrated. A semiconductor device is such that a plurality of n-channel field-effect transistors and p-channel field-effect transistors are stacked with an interlayer insulating layer interposed therebetween over a substrate having an insulating surface. By controlling a distortion caused to a semiconductor layer due to an insulating film having a stress, a plane orientation of the semiconductor layer, and a crystal axis in a channel length direction, difference in mobility between the n-channel field-effect transistor and the p-channel field-effect transistor can be reduced, whereby current driving capabilities and response speeds of the n-channel field-effect transistor and the p-channel field-effect can be comparable.
US08581299B2 Semiconductor device
In a semiconductor device, at least one of the ratio (collector contact area/collector active area) in the High Side IGBT and the ratio (contact area on p+ region/p+ region area) is higher than the ratio in the Low Side IGBT. Thus, it is possible to develop without substantial changes and reduce the development burden.
US08581295B2 Semiconductor light-emitting diode
A semiconductor light-emitting diode includes an electrically conductive substrate transmissive to light-emitting wavelengths, and semiconductor layers including a light-emitting layer, on the substrate. A principal-surface electrode is located on the semiconductor layers and a rear-surface electrode having an opening is located on the rear surface of the substrate. The width of the opening is L, the distance between the rear-surface electrode and the light-emitting layer is t, L≦2 t, and the rear-surface electrode covers no more than 40% of the rear surface of the substrate.
US08581274B2 Integrated semiconductor light-emitting device and its manufacturing method
An integrated compound semiconductor light-emitting-device capable of emitting light as a large-area plane light source. The light-emitting-device includes plural light-emitting-units formed over a substrate, the light-emitting-units having a compound semiconductor thin-film crystal layer, first and second-conductivity-type-side electrodes, a main light-extraction direction is the side of the substrate, and the first and the second-conductivity-type-side electrodes are formed on the opposite side to the light-extraction direction. The light-emitting-units are electrically separated from each other by a light-emitting-unit separation-trench. An optical coupling layer is formed between the substrate and the first-conductivity-type semiconductor layer. The optical coupling layer is common to the plurality of light-emitting-units, and capable of optical coupling of the plurality of light-emitting-units and distributing a light to the entire light-emitting-device.
US08581266B2 Light-emitting element, light-emitting device, lighting device, and electronic device
An object is to provide a light-emitting element which exhibits light emission with high luminance and can be driven at low voltage. Another object is to provide a light-emitting device or an electronic device with reduced power consumption. Between an anode and a cathode, n (n is a natural number of two or more) EL layers are provided, where between a first EL layer and a second EL layer, a first layer containing any of an alkali metal, an alkaline earth metal, a rare earth metal, an alkali metal compound, an alkaline earth metal compound, and a rare earth metal compound, a second layer containing a material having a high electron-transporting property in contact with the first layer, and a region containing a material having a high hole-transporting property and an acceptor material in contact with the second layer are provided in this order from the anode side.
US08581263B2 Laser-induced flaw formation in nitride semiconductors
An embodiment is a method and apparatus to induce flaw formation in nitride semiconductors. Regions of a thin film structure are selectively decomposed within a thin film layer at an interface with a substrate to form flaws in a pre-determined pattern within the thin film structure. The flaws locally concentrate stress in the pre-determined pattern during a stress-inducing operation. The stress-inducing operation is performed. The stress-inducing operation causes the thin film layer to fracture at the pre-determined pattern.
US08581260B2 Semiconductor device including a memory
Plural kinds of thin film transistors having different film thicknesses of semiconductor layers are provided over a substrate having an insulating surface. A channel formation region of semiconductor layer in a thin film transistor for which high speed operation is required is made thinner than a channel formation region of a semiconductor layer of a thin film transistor for which high withstand voltage is required. A gate insulating layer of the thin film transistor for which high speed operation is required may be thinner than a gate insulating layer of the thin film transistor for which high withstand voltage is required.
US08581253B2 Display substrate and method of manufacturing the same
A display substrate includes a first light blocking pattern formed on a base substrate, a first switching element, a second light blocking pattern formed on the base substrate, and a first sensing element. The first light blocking pattern is configured to block visible light and transmit infrared light. The first switching element includes a first semiconductor pattern, a first source electrode, a first drain electrode, and a first gate electrode. The second light blocking pattern is configured to block the visible light and transmit the infrared light. The first sensing element is configured to detect the infrared light, and includes a second semiconductor pattern, a second source electrode, a second drain electrode, and a second gate electrode.
US08581243B2 Thin-film transistor and process for its fabrication
A bottom gate type thin-film transistor constituted of at least a substrate, a gate electrode, a gate insulating layer, a semiconductor layer, a source electrode and a drain electrode. At an interface between the gate electrode and the gate insulating layer, the interface has a difference between hill tops and dale bottoms of unevenness in the vertical direction, of 30 nm or less.
US08581241B2 Polymer compound, net-like polymer compound produced by crosslinking the polymer compound, composition for organic electroluminescence element, organic electroluminescence element, organic EL display, and organic EL lighting
An object of the invention is to provide a polymer compound having a high hole transport capacity, excellent in electrochemical stability, and suitable to film formation according to a wet film formation method. Another object of the invention is to provide an organic electroluminescence element having a high current efficiency, a low drive voltage, and a long derive lifetime. The polymer compound has a crosslinking group bonding to the arylamine moiety in the repeating unit via at least one single bond therebetween.
US08581237B2 Light-emitting element
The light-emitting element comprises a first electrode, a second electrode, and a light-emitting layer between the first electrode and the second electrode, in which a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer are stacked from the first electrode side, the first layer contains a first light-emitting substance and a first organic compound, the second layer contains a second light-emitting substance and a second organic compound, the third layer contains the first light-emitting substance and a third organic compound, the amount of the first light-emitting substance is larger than the amount of the first organic compound, the amount of the second organic compound is larger than the amount of the second light-emitting substance, and the amount of the third organic compound is larger than the amount of the first light-emitting substance. A light-emitting element with such a structure can have high emission efficiency.
US08581235B2 Resonance tunneling devices and methods of manufacturing the same
Provided are a resonance tunneling device and a method of manufacturing the resonance tunneling device. The resonance tunneling device includes a substrate, a plurality of electrodes disposed on the substrate, and a nanoparticle layer disposed between the electrodes, and doped with an impurity. The nanoparticle layer uses the impurity to exhibit resonance tunneling where a current peak occurs at a target bias voltage applied between the electrodes.
US08581234B2 Deposition method and manufacturing method of light-emitting device
Part of a material layer is deposited on a deposition target surface of a second substrate by steps of providing a first substrate having a light absorption layer and a material layer in contact with the light absorption layer over one of surfaces; making a surface of the first substrate over which the material layer is formed and a deposition target surface of a second substrate face to each other; depositing part of the material layer on the deposition target surface of the second substrate in such a manner that irradiation with laser light of which repetition rate is greater than or equal to 10 MHz and pulse width is greater than or equal to 100 fs and less than or equal to 10 ns is performed from the other surface side of the first substrate to selectively heat part of the material layer overlapping with the light absorption layer.
US08581222B2 Phase change memory device comprising bismuth-tellurium nanowires
The present invention relates to a phase change memory device comprising bismuth-tellurium nanowires. More specifically, the bismuth-tellurium nanowires having PRAM characteristics may be prepared by using a porous nano template without any high temperature process and said nanowires may be used in the phase change memory device by using their phase change characteristics to identify memory characteristics.
US08581216B2 Manufacturing method of semiconductor device, method for controlling ion beam, and ion implantation apparatus
The ion implantation apparatus includes a source head, an extraction electrode having a slit trough which a part of an ion beam outputted from the source head passes, a magnet for curving a trajectory of the ion beam passed through the slit, a target to be irradiated with the ion beam outputted from the magnet, an electric current measuring device facing an ion exit port of the source head through the slit of the extraction electrode, and a control portion for controlling a position of the extraction electrode based on a measured result of the current measuring device in a state that production of a magnetic field from the magnet is stopped.
US08581198B2 Apparatus and method for detecting radiation
An apparatus and method for detecting radiation, which can improve the resolution of a radiation image and contribute to the simplification of the manufacture of the apparatus, are provided. The apparatus includes an upper electrode layer transmitting radiation; a first photoconductive layer becoming photoconductive upon exposure to the radiation and thus generating charges therein; a charge trapping layer trapping therein the charges generated in the first photoconductive layer and serving as a floating electrode; a second photoconductive layer becoming photoconductive upon exposure to rear light for reading out a radiation image; a lower transparent electrode layer charged with the charges trapped in the charge trapping layer; a rear light emission unit applying the rear light to the second photoconductive layer via the lower transparent electrode layer in units of pixels; and a data processing unit reading out a signal corresponding to the charges trapped in the charge trapping layer from the lower transparent electrode layer and generating a radiation image based on the read-out signal.
US08581195B2 System and method for assaying radiation
A system for assaying radiation includes a sample holder configured to hold a liquid scintillation solution. A photomultiplier receives light from the liquid scintillation solution and generates a signal reflective of the light. A control circuit biases the photomultiplier and receives the signal from the photomultiplier reflective of the light. A light impermeable casing surrounds the sample holder, photomultiplier, and control circuit. A method for assaying radiation includes placing a sample in a liquid scintillation solution, placing the liquid scintillation solution in a sample holder, and placing the sample holder inside a light impermeable casing. The method further includes positioning a photomultiplier inside the light impermeable casing and supplying power to a control circuit inside the light impermeable casing.
US08581190B2 Charged particle beam apparatus and geometrical aberration measurement method therefor
Disclosed is a scanning charged particle microscope provided with an aberration measuring means that measures high-order geometrical aberration at high precision and high speed. An image obtained by a single-hole aperture and an image obtained by a multiple-hole aperture arranged in a region larger than that for the single-hole aperture are deconvoluted, an aberration quantity is determined based on the profiles of beams tilted in a plurality of directions and the obtained quantity is fed back to an aberration corrector.
US08581188B2 Electron detector including one or more intimately-coupled scintillator-photomultiplier combinations, and electron microscope employing same
An electron detector includes a plurality of assemblies, the plurality of assemblies including a first assembly having a first SiPM and a first scintillator made of a first scintillator material directly connected to an active light sensing surface of the first SiPM, and a second assembly having a second SiPM and a second scintillator made of a second scintillator material directly connected to an active light sensing surface of the second SiPM, wherein the first scintillator material and the second scintillator material are different than one another. Alternatively, an electron detector includes an assembly including an SiPM and a scintillator member having a front surface and a back surface, the scintillator member being a film of a scintillator material directly deposited on to an active light sensing surface of the SiPM.
US08581183B2 Calibration function for time-of-flight mass spectrometers with extreme mass accuracy
A calibration function for time-of-flight mass spectrometers that converts ion times of flight into mass to charge ratios, takes into account not only the time of flight of a specific ionic species, but also the ion signal intensity of that ionic species. Use of the conversion function reduces nonsystematic deviations of the calculated mass values from the true mass values previously experienced in time of flight mass spectrometers.
US08581180B2 Method and device for measuring glow discharge spectrometry in pulsed mode
The present invention relates to a device for measuring glow discharge spectrometry in pulsed mode, which includes an RF electric field generator in pulsed mode, a discharge lamp, an impedance matching device for transferring the electric power supplied by the generator to the discharge lamp and a mass spectrometer suitable for measuring at least one signal representative of an ionised plasma species. According to the invention, the device includes a measurement system suitable for measuring a signal representative of the impedance mismatch ΔΩ between the generator and the discharge lamp, said measurement system including a fast acquisition system, synchronized with the pulses and suitable for supplying the impedance matching device with a signal representing the impedance mismatch ΔΩ for at least one part of said pulses. The device enables continuous impedance adaptation.
US08581173B2 Fiber optic transceiver module having a molded cover in which an optical beam transformer made of an elastomer is integrally formed
An FOT module is provided that has a molded cover in which an optical beam transformer is integrally formed. The molded cover includes at least a nontransparent molded part that is secured to a mounting structure, such as a molded leadframe or a PCB, on which at least one active optical device is mounted. The material of which the nontransparent molded part is made has a CTE that matches, or nearly matches, the CTE of the body of the mounting structure. Consequently, exposure of the FOT module to temperature variations will not result in delaminations at the interface of the mounting structure and the nontransparent molded part.
US08581166B2 Optoelectronic shutter, method of operating the same and optical apparatus including the optoelectronic shutter
An optoelectronic shutter, a method of operating the same, and an optical apparatus including the optoelectronic shutter are provided. The optoelectronic shutter includes a phototransistor which generates an output signal from incident input light and a light emitting diode serially connected to the phototransistor. The light emitting diode outputs output light according to the output signal, and the output signal is gain-modulated according to a modulation of a current gain of the phototransistor.
US08581159B2 Control method for a cooktop and cooktop for carrying out said method
A method and cooktop include a cooktop panel, a cooking zone, and an induction heating device disposed below the cooktop panel. First, second and third heat sensor units are disposed beneath the cooktop panel in a region of a measuring spot. The first heat sensor unit is configured to measure heat flow from substantially only the cooktop panel. The second and third heat sensor units are configured to measure heat flow from the cooktop panel and a cooking utensil disposed thereon. A light source is provided for measuring an emissivity of the bottom of the cooking utensil. An auxiliary heater heats the region of the measuring spot. An electrical control system calculates a ratio from signals of the second and third heat sensor units and determines an actual temperature of the bottom of the cooking utensil from the ratio by using a temperature of a lower surface of the cooktop panel measured by the first sensor unit and a value of the emissivity of the cooking utensil bottom.
US08581154B2 Method for effectuating temperature control in roller grills
The present invention provides a method for effectuating temperature control in roller grill assembly. Some embodiments provide a roller grill assembly which provides enhanced measurement by utilizing temperature probes located in convective air streams generated in the roller tube. Certain embodiments also provide an improved method for maintaining of a food product temperature by utilizing an intermediate holding mode. Finally, certain embodiments provide improved current control by limiting the number of heating circuits of a food heater that may be simultaneously enabled such that the current draw does not exceed a maximum current draw.
US08581153B2 Method of detecting abnormal placement of substrate, substrate processing method, computer-readable storage medium, and substrate processing apparatus
A method of detecting an abnormal placement of a substrate W, which is carried out when a substrate W placed on a substrate table 3, in which a heater 6a, 6b is disposed, is processed by heating. The method of detecting an abnormal placement of the substrate comprises the steps of: during processing of the substrate W, based on information about an electric output to the heater 6a, 6b or information about a measured temperature of the substrate table 3, detecting of a maximum value and a minimum value of the electric output or the measured temperature, or an integrated value of the electric output or the measured temperature; and judging of the abnormal placement of the substrate based on the maximum value and the minimum value detected, or the integrated value detected.
US08581152B2 Multi-zone heating system
A heating system is disclosed including a cabinet, at least one heating pad subassembly, and a plurality of couplings. The cabinet has walls defining an interior heating chamber. The heating pad subassembly is disposed on an exterior surface of the walls of the cabinet and includes a heating element and a plurality of openings formed there through. The plurality of couplings includes a plurality of coupling first portions disposed on the exterior surface of the walls and a plurality of coupling second portions coupled to the plurality of coupling first portions. At least a portion of the plurality of couplings extend through the plurality of openings in the heating pad subassembly, thereby coupling the heating pad subassembly to the cabinet.
US08581143B2 X-ray microscopy for characterizing hole shape and dimensions in surgical needles
A novel method of characterizing laser drilled boreholes is disclosed. The method uses x-ray microscopy for dimensional characterization. The x-ray output may be processed to control manufacturing equipment in automated production systems, including laser drilling systems and swaging apparatus.
US08581141B2 Laser machining apparatus using laser beam introduced into jet liquid column
A laser machining apparatus comprising jet liquid, a laser beam, and a laminar flow forming channel for supplying jet liquid to a nozzle. The channel includes a distribution channel formed by a cavity, an interconnecting channel disposed to communicate with said channel downstream in an axial direction of the nozzle and formed by an annular cavity around the axis of the nozzle to provide a narrower flow passage, and a liquid reservoir chamber. Said chamber has an outer peripheral edge communicating with the interconnecting channel over an entire circumference of the annular shape. An outer peripheral surface and an outer peripheral surface of the chamber form a continuous surface and an inner peripheral wall surface and an inner peripheral surface of the channel are both formed as an inclined inward surface that is downstream, the inner peripheral surface and the inner peripheral wall surface forming a planar continuous surface.
US08581139B2 Electrode and electrode holder with threaded connection
A threaded connection for an electrode holder and an electrode in a plasma arc torch is provided. The threaded connection has relatively low height, and the engaged portion of a male threaded portion of the electrode and a female threaded portion of the electrode holder are positioned at least partially within a nozzle chamber. In one inventive aspect, the nominal pitch diameter of the electrode is less than the minor diameter of the electrode. In another, the width of the root area of the electrode thread is wider than the width of the root area of the electrode holder thread by at least about 35%. The width of the root area of the electrode is at least about 15% wider than the width of the crest portion of the electrode. As such, the less consumable of the two parts, the electrode holder, is provided with a thread that is less likely to be worn and damaged. In one particular embodiment, the crest profile of the electrode is that of a Stub Acme thread separated by a larger root profile.
US08581134B2 Method and apparatus for dry granulation
The invention provides, inter alia, a method for producing granules from a powder, characterized in that compaction force is applied to the powder to produce a compacted mass comprising a mixture of fine particles and granules and separating and removing fine particles and/or small granules from the other granules by entraining the fine particles and/or small granules in a gas stream. Also provided are apparatus for use in the process and tablets formed by compression of the resultant granules.
US08581128B2 Breaker
A breaker includes a contact unit provided in an airtight container. The contact unit has fixed contact points and a movable contact point which selectively contacts with the fixed contact points. Further, the breaker include a movable shaft having a part projecting outward from the airtight container, for moving the movable contact point to and from the fixed contact points, and a metal member for ensuring airtightness of the airtight container. The metal member has one end fixed to the airtight container and the other end fixed to the movable shaft and is extensible and contractible in accordance with the movement of the movable shaft. Moreover, the breaker includes a lever unit for moving the movable shaft between a closed position where the movable contact point is in contact with the fixed contact points and an open position where the movable contact point is separated from the fixed contact points.
US08581127B2 Key structure with scissors-type connecting member
A key structure includes a keycap, a scissors-type connecting element, a membrane module, a light-emitting element and a base plate. The light-emitting element is used for emitting light beams. The keycap has a protrusion structure for blocking the light beams and preventing the light beams from leaking out through the gap between said keycap and said base plate. The base plate has a slot corresponding to the protrusion structure. When the keycap is depressed, the membrane module is pressed by the protrusion structure to be subject to deformation, so that a deformed part of the membrane module is inserted into the slot of the base plate. In such way, the hand feel of depressing the keycap is not adversely affected.
US08581126B1 Integrated automotive horn/light apparatus and method
An apparatus and method for simultaneously operating the horn and light systems of a motorized vehicle is provided. The controller used to operate the systems can be a single controller that operates the horn when a certain range of pressure is applied to the controller and operates the horn and lights systems when a stronger pressure is applied. The system can include a dedicated horn operating system controller independent of the dual function controller to eliminate the need for differing pressures to operate the horn and light systems substantially simultaneously. Also disclosed are apparatuses and methods to coordinate a vehicle braking system with the vehicle horn and light systems to improve the reception of safety and/or emergency warnings.
US08581118B2 Seal structure, method of forming seal structure, wire body, and electronic apparatus
A seal structure capable of achieving a waterproof structure at low cost while being flexibly adaptable to design change of a wire member, a method of forming the seal structure, a wire body and an electronic apparatus using them are provided. A seal structure 15 for sealing through holes 33, 43 of housings 31, 41 in which a wire member 20 is inserted is configured to include a covering C that includes a spacer member 11 disposed on one side of the through hole, secures the spacer member 11, the wire member 20 and the housings 31, 41 to each other and seals them.
US08581116B2 Component carrier
A component carrier is described for fastening a component on a mounting wall having a through-opening, including a receptacle device for the component, an installation device for establishing a fixation of the component carrier on the mounting wall, and a retaining device for the pre-fixation of the component carrier in the through-opening. The retaining device includes a pin structure and a rib structure extending along the pin structure, the pin structure and rib structure forming a fixation area, using which the retaining device is fixable in the through-opening. Furthermore, the retaining device includes a securing structure situated on the free end of the pin structure opposite to the rib structure, which prevents the retaining device from being pulled out of the through-opening.
US08581114B2 Packaged structure having magnetic component and method thereof
A packaged structure having a magnetic component and a method of manufacturing the same are provided. The packaged structure includes an insulating substrate having a ring-typed recess, an island portion and a surrounding portion defined by the ring-typed recess, wherein the ring-typed recess is laterally between the island portion and the surrounding portion. The packaged structure further includes a ring-typed magnetic component placed in the ring-typed recess; an upper wiring layer above the insulating substrate and a lower wiring layer under the insulating substrate; an inner plated through hole vertically passing through the island portion and connecting the upper wiring layer and the lower wiring layer; an outer plated through hole vertically passing through the surrounding portion and connecting the upper wiring layer and the lower wiring layer, wherein the inner plated through hole, the outer plated through hole, the upper wiring layer and the lower wiring layer form a coil of wire surrounding the ring-typed magnetic component.
US08581113B2 Low cost high frequency device package and methods
A low-cost high-frequency electronic device package and associated fabrication method are described wherein waveguide structures are formed from the high frequency device to the package lead transition. The package lead transition is optimized to take advantage of waveguide interconnect structure.
US08581111B2 Mounting structure
A mounting structure includes an electronic component mounted on a circuit board. Land electrodes are disposed on a board body and are connected to outer electrodes of the electronic component through solders, respectively. A distance from each of the land electrodes to a top of the corresponding solder is not larger than about 1.27 times a distance from each of the land electrodes to an exposed portion of a capacitor conductor exposed at an end surface of the electronic component, the capacitor conductor being positioned closest to the circuit board.
US08581110B2 Printed circuit board and method of manufacturing the same
A mounting region is provided at an approximately center of one surface of an insulating layer. A conductive trace is formed so as to outwardly extend from inside of the mounting region. A cover insulating layer is formed in a periphery of the mounting region so as to cover the conductive trace. A terminal of the conductive trace is arranged in the mounting region, and a bump of an electronic component is bonded to the terminal. A metal layer made of copper, for example, is provided on the other surface of the insulating layer. A pair of slits is formed in the metal layer such that a region being opposite to the electronic component is sandwiched therebetween. Each slit is formed so as not to divide the metal layer into a plurality of regions.
US08581109B2 Method for manufacturing a circuit board structure
The present publication discloses a method for manufacturing a circuit-board structure. In the method, a conductor layer is made, which comprises a conductor foil and a conductor pattern on the surface of the conductor foil. A component is attached to the conductor layer and at least some conductor material of the conductor layer is removed from outside the conductor pattern.
US08581106B2 Submount
A submount with an electrode layer having excellent wettability in soldering and method of manufacturing the same are disclosed. A submount (1) for having a semiconductor device mounted thereon comprises a submount substrate (2), a substrate protective layer (3) formed on a surface of the submount substrate (2), an electrode layer (4) formed on the substrate protective layer (3) and a solder layer (5) formed on the electrode layer (3) wherein the electrode layer (4) is made having an average surface roughness of less than 1 μm. The reduced average surface roughness of the electrode layer (4) improves wettability of the solder layer (5), allowing the solder layer (5) and a semiconductor device to be firmly bonded together without any flux therebetween. A submount (1) is thus obtained which with the semiconductor device mounted thereon is reduced in heat resistance, reducing its temperature rise and improving its performance and service life.
US08581104B2 Wiring board and method for manufacturing the same
A wiring board includes an insulation layer containing a resin and a silica-type filler and having a roughened surface, and a conductive layer formed on the roughened surface of the insulation layer and having a first conductive portion and a second conductive portion positioned adjacent to the first conductive portion. The roughened surface of the insulation layer has a roughness under the first conductive portion, a roughness under the second conductive portion, and a roughness between the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion, and the roughness between the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion is set less than at least one of the roughness under the first conductive portion and the roughness under the second conductive portion.
US08581099B2 Photovoltaic junction box
A photovoltaic junction box includes a housing, a circuit board received in the housing, a plurality of metal brackets, and a plurality of bypass diodes. The plurality of metal brackets are secured to the circuit board, each of the plurality of metal brackets defines a receiving space receiving a spring sheet. The plurality of bypass diodes are respectively secured to the plurality of metal brackets and electrically connected to the circuit board. Each of a plurality of ribbons is clamped between the spring sheet and a corresponding metal bracket, and the ribbon directly and electrically contacts the corresponding metal bracket.
US08581093B2 Optoelectronical semiconductor device
An optoelectronical semiconductor device having a bonding structure comprises a first optoelectronical structure, a second optoelectronical structure, and a transparent bonding structure formed in-between.
US08581089B2 Module having a plurality of thermoelectric elements
A module having a plurality of thermoelectric elements electrically connected in series, each being made of at least one n-layer and at least one p-layer made of thermoelectric material with a pn-transition implemented along a boundary layer. A temperature gradient parallel to the boundary layer between a hot and a cold side of each thermoelectric element can be applied or detected. Resistances of the electrical contacts of the individual thermoelectric elements are reduced and the thermal connection to a heat sink or heat source is improved for generating a temperature gradient along the boundary layer. The substrate and the thermoelectric elements are produced in separate processes, and the thermoelectric elements are adhered to previously structured, thermally and electrically conductive regions of the substrate using different adhesives for the cold and hot side of each thermoelectric element.
US08581068B1 Maize variety hybrid X18B721
A novel maize variety designated X18B721 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 X18B721 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X18B721 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X18B721, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X18B721. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X18B721.
US08581066B1 Maize variety hybrid X08A148
A novel maize variety designated X08A148 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 X08A148 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X08A148 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X08A148, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X08A148. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X08A148.
US08581064B1 aize variety inbred PH18MF
A novel maize variety designated PH18MF and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH18MF with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH18MF 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 PH18MF or a locus conversion of PH18MF with another maize variety.
US08581053B2 Soybean variety A1025921
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated A1025921. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety A1025921. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety A1025921 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety A1025921 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods.
US08581046B2 Brassica gat event DP-073496-4 and compositions and methods for the identification and/or detection thereof
Compositions and methods related to transgenic glyphosate tolerant Brassica plants are provided. Specifically, the present invention provides Brassica plants having a DP-073496-4 event which imparts tolerance to glyphosate. The Brassica plant harboring the DP-073496-4 event at the recited chromosomal location comprises genomic/transgene junctions within SEQ ID NO: 2 or with genomic/transgene junctions as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 12 and/or 13. The characterization of the genomic insertion site of the event provides for an enhanced breeding efficiency and enables the use of molecular markers to track the transgene insert in the breeding populations and progeny thereof. Various methods and compositions for the identification, detection, and use of the event are provided.
US08581029B2 Genetic loci associated with Fusarium solani tolerance in soybean
The invention relates to methods and compositions for identifying soybean plants that are tolerant, have improved tolerance or are susceptible to Fusarium solani infection (the causative agent of sudden death syndrome or SDS). The methods use molecular genetic markers to identify, select and/or construct disease-tolerant plants or identify and counterselect disease-susceptible plants. Soybean plants that display tolerance or improved tolerance to Fusarium solani infection that are generated by the methods of the invention are also a feature of the invention.
US08581017B2 Conformable wound dressing
A wound dressing comprising an absorbent pad, an adhesive layer, and a backing layer is described, along with a dressing support layer configured to retain and deliver the wound dressing to a wound, the dressing support layer having a radial configuration that forms a plurality of alternating covered and uncovered portions of the backing layer along the perimeter of the wound dressing.
US08581016B2 Process for producing alkylated aromatic compound and process for producing phenol
The present invention provides an industrially practical process where a ketone and an aromatic compound are directly reacted to obtain a corresponding alkylated aromatic compound in a single reaction step. The process for producing an alkylated aromatic compound is characterized in that it comprises reacting an aromatic compound, a ketone and hydrogen in the presence of a solid acid substance and a catalyst composition comprising at least one metal selected from the group consisting of Co, Re, Ni and a platinum group metal.
US08581015B2 Apparatus for restoring waste plastic to oil
Apparatus and method for restoring plastics to oil, thereby efficiently recycling waste plastics, comprises a decomposer, an oil reduction body, a cooling tank, and a filter and emission part. The decomposer comprises a decomposition space comprising an opening to receive the plastic, a heating coil inside the decomposer to heat the decomposition space to pyrolyze the plastic, and a pyrolyzing gas exhaust pipe to exhaust pyrolyzing gas produced in pyrolyzing the plastic. The oil reduction body is divided into a cooling space and a oil catchment space by a partition. The cooling tank provides cooling water to the cooling space to cool and reduce the pyrolyzing gas to oil, which is collected in the oil catchment space.
US08581002B2 Process for working up diacetone acrylamide solutions for the preparation of pure diacetone acrylamide
Improved process for working up diacetone acrylamide solutions, obtained by reaction of acetone or diacetone alcohol with acrylonitrile and sulfuric acid and subsequent dilution and neutralization, in which a) the organic phase obtained subsequent to the neutralization, which comprises the crude diacetone acrylamide, is hydrolyzed by addition of an aqueous alkaline solution in order to remove acrylamide, then b) after phase separation has been carried out, the organic phase, which comprises the crude diacetone acrylamide, is neutralized by addition of an acid, and c) in succession, low-boiling-point byproducts are removed by distillation in the presence of one or more polymerization inhibitors, then t-butylacrylamide is removed by distillation and, finally, the diacetone acrylamide is isolated by product distillation, and d) the diacetone acrylamide thus obtained is converted into its final form.
US08580986B2 Process for the production of fatty acid alkyl esters
Disclosed is an improved process for the production of fatty acid lower alkyl esters according to formula (I) R1CO—OR2  (I) in which R1CO represents a linear or branched acyl moiety having from about 6 to about 22 carbon atoms and 0 to 6 double bonds and wherein R2 is a linear or branched alkyl moiety having 1 to 6 carbon atoms, by transesterification of triglycerides or fatty acid esters using C1-C6 aliphatic alcohols, which includes the steps of (a) providing an aqueous mixture of aliphatic C1-C6 alcohol by fermenting in a first reactor a carbon source comprising carbohydrates and/or glycerol produce a fermentation broth comprising said aliphatic C1-C6 alcohol, (b) providing in a second reactor a triglyceride and/or an ester of a fatty acid, together with a biocatalyst capable of effecting a transesterification reaction, (c) transferring said aqueous aliphatic C1-C6 alcohol mixture obtained from said first reactor into said second reactor to provide a two-phase system, and (d) effecting the transesterification reaction to produce said fatty acid lower alkyl ester and a glycerol- or alcohol-containing aqueous phase. The products thus obtained are particularly useful as components of the fuel known as biodiesel.
US08580982B2 Use of structured catalyst beds for preparing ethylene oxide
The present invention relates to a process for preparing ethylene oxide by reaction of ethylene with oxygen in the presence of at least one silver-comprising catalyst, wherein the reaction takes place in a reactor which has a catalyst packed bed having at least two zones (i) and (ii) and the silver content of the catalyst in zone (i) is lower than the silver content of the catalyst in zone (ii). The catalyst packed bed preferably has a further zone (a) with which the reaction mixture comes into contact before the zones (i) and (ii). According to the invention, the silver content of the catalyst in the zone (a) is higher than the silver content of the catalyst in zone (i).
US08580975B2 Synthesis of macrocyclic cancer chemotherapy agents and methods of use
Herein are described a process for forming a quaternary carbon useful in the preparation of macrolactones, an enantioselective synthesis of (+)-peloruside A, and methods for treating a patient in need of relief from cancer or a cancer-related disease. The described processes are useful for preparing compounds containing quaternary carbons, including structural analogs and derivatives of peloruside A.
US08580971B2 Alkyl-analide producing method
New pyrazolylcarboxanilides of the formula (I) in which R and R1 have the meanings given in the description, a plurality of processes for the preparation of these substances and their use for controlling undesired microorganisms, and novel intermediates and their preparation.
US08580967B2 Methyl 3-(benzyloxy)-1-(2,2-dihydroxyethyl)-4-oxo-1,4-dihydropyridine-2-carboxylate and processes for the preparation thereof
The present invention features compounds that are prodrugs of HIV integrase inhibitors and therefore are useful in the delivery of compounds for the inhibition of HIV replication, the prevention and/or treatment of infection by HIV, and in the treatment of AIDS and/or ARC. For example, the present invention includes methyl 3-(benzyloxy)-1-(2,2-dihydroxyethyl)-4-oxo-1,4-dihydropyridine-2 -carboxylate of the formula P-8: and processes for the preparation thereof.
US08580965B2 Substituted sulfonamide compounds
Substituted sulfonamide compounds with bradykinin receptor (B1R) modulating activity; processes for the preparation thereof, pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds, and methods of using such compounds to treat or inhibit pain and/or other disorders and/or disease states.
US08580955B2 Purification method and production method for cellobiose
The present invention provides a method for purifying cellobiose which comprises the steps of (A) preparing a cellobiose-containing sugar solution; (B) increasing the rate of cellobiose present in the sugar solution relative to the total saccharides present therein up to at least 50% by mass; and (C) crystallizing cellobiose; and a method for preparing cellobiose having a high content of the α-anomer thereof which comprises the step of drying a cellobiose-containing sugar solution having a rate of cellobiose of at least 90% by mass relative to the total saccharides present therein while maintaining the sugar solution at a temperature ranging from 80 to 95° C. These methods of the present invention permit the economical preparation of cellobiose having considerably improved purity and recovery rate, without using any complicated process. Moreover, the present invention also permits the preparation of cellobiose highly soluble in water.
US08580952B2 Glyoxal free purified cationic polygalactomannan
A glyoxal and boron free purified cationic polygalactomannan may be prepared by reacting a polygalactomannan flour, a nonionically derivatized polygalactomannan flour, or a mixture thereof, with a cationising reagent, adjusting the pH to be from about 4 to about 6; cross-linking the cationic with glyoxal, and filtering and water washing the cationic polygalactomannan to produce a glyoxalated purified cationic polygalactomannan containing not more than 70% by weight of water. In some cases it may be desirable to introduce a buffering agent to the glyoxalated purified cationic polygalactomannan to regulate the pH to from 8.0 to about 9.5, when measured at 1% (dry matter) in water. In other cases, it may be desirable to remove water to produce glyoxal free purified cationic polygalactomannan in powder form. Such compounds are particularly useful in personal care products.
US08580950B2 Aldehyde-functionalized polysaccharides
Novel aldehyde-functionalized polysaccharide compositions containing pendant dialdehyde groups are described that are more stable in aqueous solution than oxidized polysaccharides. The aldehyde-functionalized polysaccharides may be reacted with various amine-containing polymers to form hydrogel tissue adhesives and sealants that may be useful for medical applications such as wound closure, supplementing or replacing sutures or staples in internal surgical procedures such as intestinal anastomosis and vascular anastomosis, tissue repair, preventing leakage of fluids such as blood, bile, gastrointestinal fluid and cerebrospinal fluid, ophthalmic procedures, drug delivery, and preventing post-surgical adhesions.
US08580930B2 Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) binding proteins
The present invention provides a family of binding proteins that bind and neutralize the activity of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), in particular human HGF. The binding proteins can be used as diagnostic and/or therapeutic agents. With regard to their therapeutic activity, the binding proteins can be used to treat certain HGF responsive disorders, for example, certain HGF responsive tumors.
US08580926B2 Gene and protein expression profiles associated with the therapeutic efficacy of irinotecan
The present invention includes gene and protein expression profiles indicative of whether a cancer patient is likely to respond to treatment with irinotecan. By identifying such responsiveness, a treatment provider may determine in advance those patients who would benefit from such treatment, as well as identify alternative therapies for non-responders. The present invention further provide methods of using the gene and/or protein expression profiles and assays for identifying the presence of a gene and/or protein expression profile in a patient sample.
US08580923B2 Self-assembling peptide amphiphiles and related methods for growth factor delivery
Amphiphilic peptide compounds comprising one or more epitope sequences for binding interaction with one or more corresponding growth factors, micellar assemblies of such compounds and related methods of use.
US08580916B2 Stable solution of the polymer prepared from N,O-heterocycles and its preparation method and use
A stable solution of the polymer prepared from N,O-heterocyclic compound and its preparing method are provided, wherein the stable solution is prepared by making the N,O-heterocyclic compound of formulae I or II carry out a ring-opening polymerization: wherein R1 to R3, W1, W2, m, n, p and q are as defined in the specification. The stable solution can be used as a hardener for curing epoxy resin.
US08580913B2 Polyimide resin
A polyimide resin which is satisfactory in solvent solubility and heat resistance, has a low coefficient of water absorption and is excellent in adhesive properties and a method for manufacturing the same, a film containing the subject polyimide resin and a metal-clad laminate including an adhesive layer composed of the subject polyimide resin are provided.The polyimide resin is a polyimide resin containing a molecule having a repeating unit represented by a structure of any one of the following formulae (1) to (3) in a specified proportion, whose molecular end is capped by an end-capping agent.
US08580912B2 Biodegradable nitric oxide generating polymers and related biomedical devices
Disclosed herein is a biodegradable nitric oxide-generating polymer comprising a nitric oxide-releasing N2O2− (NONOate) functional group. The polymer can be applied to various medical devices for the treatment of various diseases such as thrombosis and restenosis.
US08580903B2 Flame retardant, production method therefor, and flame retardant thermoplastic resin composition comprising the same
The aim is to provide a flame retardant for thermoplastic resins that has a high flame-retardant imparting effect, and that produces a thermoplastic resin composition with superior moldability and workability that does not easily bleed out and a molded body with superior resistance to heat-moisture and chemicals; and a flame retardant for thermoplastic resins that has a high flame-retardant imparting effect, and that produces a flame retardant with a heat resistance to working temperatures of 300° C. or higher and a molded body with superior resistance to reflow heat and chemicals. Disclosed is a flame retardant, which is a specific flame retardant for thermoplastic resins comprising the reaction product of a nitrogen-containing compound and a phosphorous-containing compound, that is insoluble in toluene and comprises in the range of 5 to 10 wt % of phosphorus atoms. The aforementioned flame retardant may have a weight average molecular weight (Mw) in the range of 2,000 to 10,000, or may have a ratio of at least 1 wt % of crosslinking components within the flame retardant components.
US08580901B2 Crosslinkable coating compositions containing polyurethane
An aqueous crosslinkable coating composition that includes a PU polymer and a vinyl polymer bearing carbonyl groups (i.e., a carbonyl-functional vinyl polymer) and/or latex polymer. The composition also preferably includes carbonyl-reactive amine and/or hydrazine functional groups.
US08580899B2 Process for producing moldings with an increase in the melt stiffness
A process for producing moldings with condensing-up of a polyamide molding composition by means of a compound having at least two carbonate units, wherein a) a polyamide molding composition is made available, b) a mixture of the polyamide molding composition and the compound having at least two carbonate units is prepared, c) the mixture is, if appropriate, stored and/or transported and d) the mixture is subsequently processed to produce the molding, with the condensing-up occurring only in this step, and the molding is a hollow body or hollow profile having an external diameter of at least 30 mm and a wall thickness of at least 1 mm, effects a significant increase in the melt stiffness combined with moderate processing presssures, which considerably simplifies the production of these moldings.
US08580888B2 Two-part, cyanoacrylate/cationically curable adhesive systems
Two part cyanoacrylate/cationically curable adhesive systems are provided, which contain vinyl ethers.
US08580885B2 Rubber composition and pneumatic tire using the same
This invention provides a rubber composition highly balancing flexibility at a low temperature and a low rolling resistance, which is formed by compounding a low-molecular weight conjugated diene-based polymer (B) having at least one functional group, an aromatic vinyl compound content of less than 5% by mass and a weight average molecular weight as measured without terminating by modification through a gel permeation chromatography and converted to polystyrene of not less than 2,000 but less than 150,000 and a filler (C) into a high-molecular weight rubber component (A) having a weight average molecular weight as measured without terminating by modification through a gel permeation chromatography and converted to polystyrene of not less than 150,000.
US08580883B2 Latex binders, aqueous coatings and paints having freeze-thaw stability and methods for using same
Disclosed are latex polymers and an aqueous coating compositions having excellent freeze-thaw stability, open time, stain resistance, low temperature film formation, foam resistance, block resistance, adhesion, water sensitivity and a low-VOC content. The latex polymers and aqueous coating compositions include at least one latex polymer derived from at least one monomer copolymerized or blended with an alkoxylated compound, for example an alkoxylated tristyrylphenol or an alkoxylated tributylphenol. Also provided is an aqueous coating composition including at least one latex polymer, at least one pigment, water and at least one freeze-thaw additive.
US08580880B2 Method for stabilising liquid mercury using sulfur polymer cement, via mercury sulfide
The invention relates to a method for stabilizing liquid mercury using sulfur polymer cement, via mercury sulfide. The method for stabilizing liquid mercury by the production of sulfur polymer cement comprises (a) transformation of the liquid mercury into mercury sulfide (metacinnabar) by a chemical reaction, under stoichiometric conditions, between mercury and elemental sulfur; and (b) production of sulfur polymer cement by incorporating the mercury sulfide produced in the previous step into a stable mixture consisting of aggregates, elemental sulfur and sulfur polymer.
US08580874B2 Polymer-modified asphalt compositions
A modified-asphalt composition prepared by introducing a diene end-capped block copolymer with a molten asphalt composition.
US08580873B2 Aqueous dispersion comprising a (meth)acrylic polymer and a vinyl acetate polymer
The present invention relates to an aqueous dispersion comprising (a) at least one (meth)acrylic polymer; (b) at least one vinyl acetate polymer selected from vinyl acetate homopolymer and vinyl acetate copolymers comprising in polymerized form vinyl acetate and ethylene; (c) water; and (d) optionally up to 50% by weight of an inorganic filler, based on the total weight of the aqueous dispersion, wherein the weight ratio of (meth)acrylic polymer(s) (a) to vinyl acetate polymer(s) (b) is from 70:30 to 30:70. The aqueous dispersion may be used as a joint compound or sealing compound.
US08580870B2 Manufacturing methods for the production of carbon materials
The present application is generally directed to activated carbon materials and methods for making the same. The disclosed methods comprise rapidly freezing synthetically prepared polymer gel particles. The methods further comprise drying, pyrolyzing, and activating steps to obtain an activated carbon material of high porosity. The disclosed methods represent viable manufacturing processes for the preparation of activated carbon materials.
US08580866B2 Dry powder polymer finish
A dry powder composition for preparing a dry form of an acrylic finish is provided. The dry powder composition includes: calcium carbonate filler, coalescing aid, pH adjuster, and an acrylic-based re-dispersible polymer in powder form. In various embodiments, aggregate, silica sand, titanium dioxide, cellulose thickener, biocide, clay, cellulose fiber, mica filler, and/or defoamer are added. The dry powder composition can further comprise a hydrophobic agent. The dry powder can be mixed with a volume of water to produce a wet coating for application to a substrate.
US08580860B2 Foamable alcoholic composition
A foamable composition includes greater than about 40 weight percent of an alcohol, based upon the total weight of the alcoholic composition, and a foaming surfactant selected from gemini surfactants, sulfuric acid esters, di-esters, C10-34 fatty alcohols, polyquaternium polymers, and combinations thereof.
US08580859B2 Methionine analogs and methods of using same
Provided are methionine analogs which may be useful for inhibiting protein synthesis, inhibiting microbial growth and/or treating infectious diseases. In some instances, the analogs exhibit bactericidal, antibacterial, anti-infective, antimicrobial, sporicidal, disinfectant, antifungal and/or antiviral properties. Also provided are methods of treatment and methods of preparation, as well as kits and unit dosages.
US08580853B2 Analgesic composition and method of making the same
A soluble aspirin composition, comprising: (i) granules including aspirin, heat-treated bicarbonate salt, pharmaceutically-acceptable resin and surfactant, in mixture with: (ii) crystalline particles of pharmaceutically-acceptable acid; and (iii) crystalline particles of heat-treated bicarbonate salt; wherein the soluble aspirin composition when introduced to water undergoes reaction of the crystalline particles of pharmaceutically-acceptable acid with the heat-treated bicarbonate salt and the aspirin to effect effervescing action and disintegration of the granules with conversion of the aspirin to an acetylsalicylate compound of the bicarbonate salt cation so that the composition rapidly dissolves in the water without occurrence of undissolved residue. The composition is solublizable within 30 seconds in cool to cold water to provide an effervescent analgesic solution that can be readily orally administered to an individual in need of analgesia.
US08580850B2 Anhydrous and hemihydrate crystalline forms of an (R)-baclofen prodrug, methods of synthesis and methods of use
Crystalline (3R)-4-{[(1S)-2-methyl-1-(2-methylpropanoyloxy)propoxy]carbonylamino}-3-(4-chlorophenyl)butanoic acid anhydrate and crystalline (3R)-4-{[(1S)-2-methyl-1-(2-methylpropanoyloxy)propoxy]carbonylamino}-3-(4-chlorophenyl)butanoic acid hemihydrate, pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds, methods of making and methods of using the same are disclosed.
US08580849B2 Hydrous gel and production process and use of the hydrous gel
A hydrous gel substantially comprising at least two polymers selected from the group consisting of polyacrylic acid, sodium polyacrylate and partially neutralized polyacrylate, and water, the polymers being crosslinked by containing an aluminum compound, wherein the pH when the hydrous gel is 100-fold diluted with purified water is from 6.5 to 8.5. A hydrous gel which can stably hold an ascorbic acid or a derivative thereof, has high gel strength, exhibits good adhesion to an adherend and causes no liquid syneresis can be provided.
US08580834B2 Small molecule modulators of hepatocyte growth factor (scatter factor) activity
The present invention provides compounds having formula (I): and pharmaceutically acceptable derivatives thereof, wherein R1, R2 and B are as described generally and in classes and subclasses herein, and additionally provides pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and methods for the use thereof for the treatment of any of a number of conditions or diseases in which HGF/SF or the activities thereof, or agonists or antagonists thereof have a therapeutically useful role.
US08580831B2 Fluorinated aminotriazole derivatives
The invention relates to fluorinated aminotriazole derivatives of formula (I), wherein A, R1 and R2 are as defined in the description, their preparation and their use as pharmaceutically active compounds.
US08580827B2 Anti-Francisella agents
A series of celecoxib derivatives defined by Formula I: were prepared and evaluated for their ability to inhibit the gram-negative bacteria Francisella tularensis. Pharmaceutical compositions including celecoxib derivatives and their use in methods for treating or preventing infection by Francisella tularensis in a subject are described.
US08580822B2 Compositions, synthesis, and methods of using indanone based cholinesterase inhibitors
The present invention provides novel indanone derivatives which can be advantageously used for treating and/or preventing of a medical condition for which inhibition of a cholinesterase is desired.
US08580821B2 Serotonin transporter (SERT) inhibitors for the treatment of depression and anxiety
The present invention relates to trans-derivatives of formula wherein R1, R2, R3, and the dotted line are as defined herein and to pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salts thereof. The compounds of formula I are good inhibitors of the serotonin transporter (SERT inhibitors) and simultaneously, they have good activity on the NK-1 receptor (dual effect). By virtue of their efficacy as SERT inhibitors, the compounds in the present invention are particularly useful for the treatment of CNS disorders and psychotic disorders, in particular in the treatment or prevention of depressive states and/or in the treatment of anxiety.
US08580819B2 Deuterated N-ethyl-N-phenyl-1,2-dihydro-4-hydroxy-5-chloro-1-methyl-2-oxoquinoline-3-carboxamide, salts and uses thereof
The subject invention provides deuterated N-ethyl-N-phenyl-1,2-dihydro-4-hydroxy-5-chloro-1-methyl-2-oxoquinoline-3-carboxamide, its salts and uses.
US08580818B2 Combination drug containing probucol and a tetrazolylalkoxy-dihydrocarbostyril derivative with superoxide supressant effects
This invention relates to a combination drug comprising a combination of a tetrazolylalkoxy-dihydrocarbostyril derivative of the formula: wherein R is cycloalkyl, A is lower alkylene, and the bond between 3- and 4-positions of carbostyril nucleus is single bond or double bond, or a salt thereof and Probucol, which is useful for preventing and treating cerebral infarction including acute cerebral infarction and chronic cerebral infarction, arteriosclerosis, renal diseases (e.g. diabetic nephropathy, renal failure, nephritis), and diabetes owing to synergistic superoxide suppressant effects of the combination.
US08580817B2 1-(1-OXO-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinolin-7-YL)urea derivatives as N-formyl peptide receptor like-1 (FPRL-1) receptor modulators
The present invention relates to novel 1-(1-Oxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinolin-7-yl)urea derivatives, processes for preparing them, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use as pharmaceuticals as modulators of the N-formyl peptide receptor like-1 (FPRL-1) receptor.
US08580814B2 Methods of using (+)-1,4-dihydro-7-[(3S,4S)-3-methoxy-4-(methylamino)-1-pyrrolidinyl]-4- oxo-1-(2-thiazolyl)-1,8-naphthyridine-3-carboxylic acid for treatment of cancer
Methods of treating, preventing or managing cancer, including certain leukemias are disclosed. The methods encompass the administration of enantiomerically pure (+)-1,4-dihydro-7-[(3S,4S)-3-methoxy-4-(methylamino)-1-pyrrolidinyl]-4-oxo-1-(2-thiazolyl)-1,8-naphthyridine-3-carboxylic acid. Also provided are methods of treatment using this compound with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, biological therapy or immunotherapy. Pharmaceutical compositions and single unit dosage forms suitable for use in the methods are also disclosed.
US08580798B2 Substituted pyrimidine derivatives useful in the treatment of cancer and other disorders
Substituted pyrimidine derivatives of formula (I), salts, metabolites, prodrugs and diastereoisomeric forms (both isolated stereoisomers and mixtures of stereoisomers) thereof (wherein A=pyrimidine) pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds and the use of those compounds or compositions for treating hyper-proliferative and angiogenesis disorders, as a sole agent or in combination with other active ingredients, e.g., cytotoxic therapies.
US08580793B2 Use of kinase inhibitor for the treatment of thymoma
The invention provides a low molecular weight ATP-competitive CDK inhibitor and TRKA inhibitor of formula (I) for use in the treatment of thymoma and thymic carcinoma. The compound can be administered together with one or more cytotoxic or cytostatic agents.
US08580792B2 Inhibitor compounds and cancer treatment methods
A synergistically effective combination of an anti-cancer agent and a therapeutic compound, such as an mTOR-Rictor complex inhibitor, a Serine 473 phosphorylation inhibitor, an AKT2 inhibitor, or a combination thereof, for use in the treatment of cancer, and methods and uses thereof. Also included are methods and uses of a thiosemicarbazone for treating a cancer in a mammal in need thereof characterized by over-expression of RAS, by an EGFR mutation, and/or by over-expression of AKT2.
US08580787B2 Compositions and methods for reducing activation of alpha-1 receptors
The invention generally relates to compositions and methods for reducing activation of a-1 adrenergic receptors. The compositions comprise highly selective a-2 adrenergic receptor agonists, at low concentrations, such as below 0.05% weight by volume. The compositions preferably comprise brimonidine. The compositions preferably have pH between about 5.5 and about 6.5.
US08580784B2 Method for treating a disease related to the glucocorticoid receptor
A method for preventing or treating a disease related to the glucocorticoid receptor involving administering a pharmacologically effective amount of a 1,2-dihydroquinoline compound.
US08580780B2 6 substituted 2, 3,4,5 tetrahydro-1H-benzo[d]azepines as 5-HT2C receptor agonist
The present invention provides 6-substituted 2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-benzo[d]azepines of Formula I as selective 5-HT2C receptor agonists for the treatment of 5-HT2C associated disorders including obesity, obsessive/compulsive disorder, depression, and anxiety: where: R6 is —S—R14; and other substituents are as defined in the specification.
US08580779B2 1,2-bis-sulfonamide derivatives as chemokine receptor modulators
The present invention relates to novel bis-sulfonamide derivatives, processes for preparing them, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use as pharmaceuticals as modulators of chemokine receptors.
US08580766B2 Glycosaminoglycan composition and method for treatment and prevention of interstitial cystitis
The invention provides compositions and methods useful for the treatment and/or prevention of interstitial cystitis and/or a related urinary tract condition in man or in animals. Specifically, provided are compositions specially formulated for direct instillation into the bladder and/or parenteral use in the treatment and/or prevention of interstitial cystitis. Compositions adapted for direct instillation into the bladder and/or for systemic administration are provided comprised of therapeutic amounts of: chondroitin sulfate in combination with hyaluronan (hyaluronic acid) are provided. Compositions adapted for direct instillation into the bladder and/or for systemic administration are also provided comprised of therapeutic amounts of: chondroitin sulfate, hyaluronan (hyaluronic acid) and N-acetyl D-glucosamine.
US08580764B2 Combinational compositions and methods for treatment of cancer
The present invention provides methods of treating a cell proliferative disorder, such as lung cancer and breast cancer, by administering to a subject in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of a pyrroloquinolinyl-pyrrole-2,5-dione compound or a pyrroloquinolinyl-pyrrolidine-2,5-dione compound, such as (−)-trans-3-(5,6-dihydro-4H-pyrrolo[3,2,1-ij]quinolin-1-yl)-4-(1H-indol-3-yl)pyrrolidine-2,5-dione, in combination with a therapeutically effective amount of a second anti-proliferative agent, such as gemcitabine.
US08580762B2 Substituted purine and 7-deazapurine compounds
The present invention relates to substituted purine and 7-deazapurine compounds. The present invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds and methods of treating disorders in which DOT1-mediated protein methylation plays a part, such as cancer and neurological disorders, by administering these compounds and pharmaceutical compositions to subjects in need thereof.
US08580756B2 Short oligomer antagonist compounds for the modulation of target mRNA
The invention provides LNA gapmer oligomers of between 10-20 nucleobases in length, which have a total of 1-3 phosphodiester internucleoside linkages. Such oligomers have been found to have superior bioavailability and have also been found to selectively accumulate in kidney cells.
US08580755B2 Methods and compositions for treating inflammatory conditions
The present invention is directed to methods of treating an inflammatory condition in a patient. This method includes providing a therapeutic agent that is a vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-3 (VEGFR-3) agonist or a nucleic acid molecule encoding a VEGFR-3 agonist. The present invention is further directed to pharmaceutical compositions and therapeutic systems for treating an inflammatory condition.
US08580752B2 Aromatic amides as potentiators of bioefficacy of anti-infective drugs
The present invention relates to an aromatic substituted pentadienoic acid amides and there use in combination of specific amounts of aromatic amides i.e. 4-alkyl-5-(substituted phenyl)-2(E),4(E)-pentadienoic acid amides, its geometrical isomers or their dihydro or tetrahydro derivatives and an anti-infective drug useful in potentiating the bioefficacy of antiinfective drug. The combination of the present invention is useful in the treatment of certain infections and disease at lower concentration of anti-infectives necessary to inhibit the growth of microbial strains and may also find applications in reducing the resistance in microorganisms.
US08580750B2 Composition for moderating alcohol metabolism and for reducing the risk of alcohol induced diseases
The present invention is directed to a composition of matter, in particular a food composition, dietary or food supplementation, and pharmaceutical composition, respectively. The composition of matter reduces the risk of neuropathy, neurodegenerative diseases including late-onset Alzheimer's disease, and cancer, in particular of pancreatic, esophageal, oropharyngolaryngeal, liver, colorectal, lung and/or breast cancer, in particular the drug and/or alcohol induced risk of said diseases. In this respect, the present invention is also directed to a composition of matter; in particular a food composition, dietary or food supplementation, and pharmaceutical composition, respectively, which supports and/or moderates the alcohol degradation process within the human body.
US08580740B2 Bone resorption inhibitory food material for inhibiting bone resorption
A milk protein fraction having following properties (1) to (4) is excellent in bone resorption inhibitory effect, and is useful for preventing or treating bone diseases: (1) the milk protein fraction is derived from milk; (2) the milk protein fraction is a fraction containing a protein having a molecular weight of 12,000 to 16,000 Daltons; (3) the milk protein fraction has a basic amino acid content of 18 to 20 wt % in the constitutional amino acid composition, and the ratio of the amount of a basic amino acid(s) to the amount of an acidic amino acid(s) is 0.7 to 0.9; and (4) the milk protein fraction has a bone resorption inhibitory effect.
US08580738B2 Methods for treatment of reperfusion injury and other cardiac conditions
The present invention discloses methods to prevent and treat cardiovascular disorders, hi certain aspects the methods are drawn to releasing endogenous calcitonin-gene related peptide from intrinsic cardiac adrenergic cells within the heart. In further aspects, a combination of a β2 adrenergic receptor agonist (β2-AR agonist) and a vasodilator can be used in treating reperfusion injury.
US08580728B2 Use of fragrance compositions for the prevention of the development of indole base malodours from fecal and urine based soils
The use of fragrance compositions comprising fragrance compounds selected among: aldehydes, α,β-unsaturated aldehydes, alcohols, ketones, and mixtures thereof in any home and personal care product, each fragrance compound being able to restrict the formation of indole to less than 0.01 ppm (wt/wt) after 24 hours incubation at room temperature in an airtight sealed vessel of suitable fresh human urine containing 0.28% by weight of each fragrance compound in order to prevent the development of indole based malodours from faecal and urine based soils.
US08580722B2 Portable cleaning article and the forming method thereof
A portable cleaning article includes a coated capsule and cleaning agent, in which the cleaning agent is contained within the coated capsule, the characteristic in that: the coated capsule having a thin-film layer and an oil layer that is coated over the surface of the thin-film layer to form a portable cleaning article. When the coated capsule is brought into contact with water by the user, the coated capsule dissolves in water for the cleaning agent to exert its cleaning function.
US08580719B2 Lubricating oil composition for internal combustion engine
A lubricating oil composition for internal combustion engines which comprises a base oil comprising mineral oils and/or synthetic oils and polyisobutylene having a weight-average molecular weight of 500,000 or higher. Consumption of the engine oil can be decreased by using the above composition. In particular, consumption of the engine oil can be decreased even when the above composition is used as the engine oil of the energy saving type using a base oil having a low viscosity.
US08580716B2 Overbased magnesium oxide dispersions
Overbased MgO dispersions with high magnesium content and acceptably low viscosities are reproducibly prepared without gel formation by heating to 280-360° C. a mixture of MgO, selected dispersants, low MW carboxylic acids, water and a combination of high boiling hydrocarbon and organic diluent, wherein water is more than 8%, typically more than 10% of the reaction mixture. No additional solubilizing or dispersing agents, promoters or reactants such as carbon dioxide, amines, alcohols etc are needed to obtain the desired dispersions. Compositions such as lubricating oils and fuels containing the overbased magnesium dispersions as additives are also disclosed.
US08580712B2 Bis(dialkylamide) compounds and diverse applications thereof
Novel bis(dialkylamide) compounds having the formula: R2R3NOC—R1a—CONR4R5 are particularly useful solvents, for example in plant-protection formulations.
US08580711B2 Decreasing or preventing sub-surface geological matter contamination by agrochemicals
Method of exposing agricultural substrates (plant matter 10, animal matter 12) to agrochemicals (A); method of decreasing or preventing sub-surface geological matter (20, 22) contamination resulting from exposing agricultural substrates to agrochemicals; composition [(A)/(T)] 30 used therein; article-of-manufacture including the composition. Includes exposing agricultural substrates to composition including combination (mixture) of an agrochemical and at least one transforming agent capable of decreasing or eliminating concentration of the agrochemical which contacts sub-surface geological matter (at temporally varying times, and at spatially varying depths). Before entering sub-surface geological matter, transforming agent exhibits inactivity for decreasing agrochemical concentration, and inactivity for affecting or/and interfering with agrochemical functionality with respect to agricultural substrates. Transforming agent co-migrates and is co-distributed with agrochemical within and throughout sub-surface geological matter, and exhibits activity for decreasing or eliminating agrochemical concentration therein. Transforming agent activity is exhibited at spatially varying depths, at temporally varying times, within sub-surface geological matter.
US08580703B2 Additive component for the improvement of the performance of olefin polymerisation catalysts
The present invention relates to a catalyst composition for polymerising olefin monomers to polyolefins comprising a catalyst component and a first additive component. The first additive component is a fossil and may for example be obtained from coal.
US08580698B2 Method for fabricating a gate dielectric layer
A method for fabricating the gate dielectric layer comprises forming a high-k dielectric layer over a substrate; forming an oxygen-containing layer on the high-k dielectric layer by an atomic layer deposition process; and performing an inert plasma treatment on the oxygen-containing layer.
US08580674B2 Fabrication of atomic scale devices
This invention concerns the fabrication of nano to atomic scale devices, that is electronic devices fabricated down to atomic accuracy. The fabrication process uses either an SEM or a STM tip to pattern regions on a semiconductor substrate. Then, forming electrically active parts of the device at those regions. Encapsulating the formed device. Using a SEM or optical microscope to align locations for electrically conducting elements on the surface of the encapsulating semiconductor with respective active parts of the device encapsulated below the surface. Forming electrically conducting elements on the surface at the aligned locations. And, electrically connecting electrically conducting elements on the surface with aligned parts of the device encapsulated below the surface to allow electrical connectivity and tunability of the device. In further aspects the invention concerns the devices themselves.
US08580669B2 Method for fabricating semiconductor device
A method for forming a semiconductor device is disclosed. A method for forming a semiconductor device includes forming a first bit line contact over a semiconductor substrate, forming a second bit line contact that is coupled to the first bit line contact and has a larger width than the first bit line contact, and forming a bit line over the second bit line contact. When using the semiconductor device having a buried gate, although the bit line is formed to have a small width and the bit line pattern is misaligned, the method prevents incorrect coupling between a bit line and a bit line contact, so that it basically deteriorates unique characteristics of the semiconductor device.
US08580668B2 Method of forming ohmic contact layer and method of fabricating light emitting device having ohmic contact layer
A method of manufacturing an ohmic contact layer and a method of manufacturing a top emission type nitride-based light emitting device having the ohmic contact layer are provided. The method of manufacturing an ohmic contact layer includes: forming a first conductive material layer on a semiconductor layer; forming a mask layer having a plurality of nano-sized islands on the first conductive material layer; forming a second conductive material layer on the first conductive material layer and the mask layer; and removing the portion of the second conductive material on the islands and the islands through a lift-off process using a solvent. The method ensures the maintenance of good electrical characteristics and an increase of the light extraction efficiency.
US08580659B2 Method of fabricating high-mobility dual channel material based on SOI substrate
The present invention discloses a method of fabricating high-mobility dual channel material based on SOI substrate, wherein compressive strained SiGe is epitaxially grown on a conventional SOI substrate to be used as channel material of PMOSFET; Si is then epitaixally grown on SiGe, and approaches such as ion implantation and annealing are employed to allow relaxation of part of strained SiGe and transfer strain to the Si layer thereon so as to form strained Si material as channel material of NMOSFET. With simple process and easy realization, this method can provide high-mobility channel material for NMOSFET and PMOSFET at the same time, well meeting the requirement of simultaneously enhancing the performance of NMOSFET and PMOSFET devices and therefore providing potential channel material for CMOS process of the next generation.
US08580656B2 Process for inhibiting corrosion and removing contaminant from a surface during wafer dicing and composition useful therefor
Adherence of contaminant residues or particles is suppressed, corrosion of exposed surfaces is substantially reduced or eliminated during the process of dicing a wafer by sawing. A fluoride-free aqueous composition comprising a dicarboxylic acid and/or salt thereof; a hydroxycarboxylic acid and/or salt thereof or amine group containing acid, a surfactant and deionized water is employed.
US08580651B2 Methods for manufacturing a trench type semiconductor device having a thermally sensitive refill material
Methods for manufacturing trench type semiconductor devices involve refilling the trenches after high temperature processing steps are performed. The methods allow thermally unstable materials to be used as refill materials for the trenches of the device. Trench type semiconductor devices containing thermally unstable refill materials are also provided. In particular, methods of manufacturing and devices of a trench type semiconductor devices containing organic refill materials are provided.
US08580650B2 Lateral superjunction extended drain MOS transistor
An integrated circuit containing an extended drain MOS transistor with deep semiconductor (SC) RESURF trenches in the drift region, in which each deep SC RESURF trench has a semiconductor RESURF layer at a sidewall of the trench contacting the drift region. The semiconductor RESURF layer has an opposite conductivity type from the drift region. The deep SC RESURF trenches have depth:width ratios of at least 5:1, and do not extend through a bottom surface of the drift region. A process of forming an integrated circuit with deep SC RESURF trenches in the drift region by etching undersized trenches and counterdoping the sidewall region to form the semiconductor RESURF layer. A process of forming an integrated circuit with deep SC RESURF trenches in the drift region by etching trenches and growing an epitaxial layer on the sidewall region to form the semiconductor RESURF layer.
US08580634B1 Methods of forming 3-D semiconductor devices with a nanowire gate structure wherein the nanowire gate structure is formed prior to source/drain formation
In one example, the method disclosed herein includes forming a fin comprised of a semiconducting material, wherein the fin has a first, as-formed cross-sectional configuration, forming a patterned hard mask above the fin, wherein the patterned hard mask has an opening that exposes a portion of the fin, performing a fin reflow process through the opening in the patterned hard mask on the exposed portion of the fin to define a nanowire structure having a cross-sectional configuration that is different from the first cross-sectional configuration, and forming a gate structure that extends at least partially around the nanowire structure.
US08580630B2 Methods for forming a metal gate structure on a substrate
Methods for forming a metal gate structure on a substrate are provided herein. In some embodiments, a method for forming a metal gate structure on a substrate having a dielectric layer formed on the substrate may include depositing a metal layer while providing a process gas comprising oxygen to form an oxygen doped work function layer atop the dielectric layer; and depositing a metal gate layer atop dielectric layer.
US08580628B2 Integrated circuit contact structure and method
An integrated circuit having a mis-alignment tolerant electrical contact is formed by providing a semiconductor containing substrate over which is a first FET gate laterally bounded by a first dielectric region, replacing an upper portion of the first FET gate with a second dielectric region, applying a mask having an opening extending partly over an adjacent source or drain contact region of the substrate and over a part of the second dielectric region above the first FET gate, forming an opening through the first dielectric region extending to the contact region and the part of the second dielectric region, and filling the opening with a conductor making electrical connection with the contact region but electrically insulated from the first FET gate by the second dielectric region. A further FET gate may also be provided having an electrical contact thereto formed separately from the source-drain contact.
US08580622B2 Method of making integrated circuit embedded with non-volatile programmable memory having variable coupling
A programmable non-volatile device is made with a floating gate that functions as a FET gate that overlaps a portion of a source/drain region and allows for variable coupling through geometry and/or biasing conditions. This allows a programming voltage for the device to be imparted to the floating gate through variable capacitive coupling, thus changing the state of the device. Multi-state embodiments are also possible. The invention can be used in environments such as data encryption, reference trimming, manufacturing ID, security ID, and many other applications.
US08580620B2 Method of manufacturing semiconductor device
To aim at improvement of reliability of a semiconductor device of flip chip connection type. In assembling a BGA of flip chip connection type, when a semiconductor chip is solder-connected by a flip chip connection, because solder precoat is formed on the surface of a land on the side of an undersurface of a wiring substrate, the connection between the land and a solder ball, which is an external terminal, is solder-connection, and therefore, it is possible to increase impact resistance of a connection part between the land and the solder ball and to aim at improvement of reliability of the BGA.
US08580616B2 Methods of forming fully embedded bumpless build-up layer packages and structures formed thereby
Methods of forming a microelectronic packaging structure and associated structures formed thereby are described. Those methods may include a die embedded in a coreless substrate, wherein a mold compound surrounds the die, and wherein the die comprises TSV connections on a first side and C4 pads on a second side of the die, a dielectric material on a first side and on a second side of the mold compound; and interconnect structures coupled to the C4 pads and to the TSV pads. Embodiments further include forming packaging structures wherein multiple dies are fully embedded within a BBUL package without PoP lands.
US08580614B2 Embedded wafer-level bonding approaches
A method includes providing a carrier with an adhesive layer disposed thereon; and providing a die including a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface. The die further includes a plurality of bond pads adjacent the second surface; and a dielectric layer over the plurality of bond pads. The method further includes placing the die on the adhesive layer with the first surface facing toward the adhesive layer and dielectric layer facing away from the adhesive layer; forming a molding compound to cover the die, wherein the molding compound surrounds the die; removing a portion of the molding compound directly over the die to expose the dielectric layer; and forming a redistribution line above the molding compound and electrically coupled to one of the plurality of bond pads through the dielectric layer.
US08580609B2 Semiconductor device with embedded interconnect pad
A semiconductor device comprising: a lower semiconductor package that comprises a first set of one or more semiconductor dies, an upper semiconductor package that is stacked on the lower semiconductor package, the upper semiconductor package comprises a second set of one or more semiconductor dies, and a first interconnect pad that is embedded in a top side of the lower semiconductor package to couple the upper semiconductor package to the lower semiconductor package.
US08580606B2 Method of forming resistance variable memory device
A method of forming a resistance variable memory device, the method including forming a diode on a semiconductor substrate; forming a lower electrode on the diode; forming a first insulating film on the lower electrode, the first insulating film having an opening; forming a resistance variable film filling the opening such that the resistance variable film includes an amorphous region adjacent to a sidewall of the opening and a crystalline region adjacent to the lower electrode; and forming an upper electrode on the resistance variable film.
US08580601B2 Pixel sensor cell with a dual work function gate electrode
Pixel sensor cells, methods of fabricating pixel sensor cells, and design structures for a pixel sensor cell. The pixel sensor cell has a gate structure that includes a gate dielectric and a gate electrode on the gate dielectric. The gate electrode includes a layer with first and second sections that have a juxtaposed relationship on the gate dielectric. The second section of the gate electrode is comprised of a conductor, such as doped polysilicon or a metal. The first section of the gate electrode is comprised of a metal having a higher work function than the conductor comprising the second section so that the gate structure has an asymmetric threshold voltage.
US08580594B2 Method of fabricating a semiconductor device having recessed bonding site
The present disclosure provides a method including providing a first substrate; and forming a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) device on a first surface of the first substrate. A bond pad is formed on at least one bonding site on the first surface of the first substrate. The bonding site is recessed from the first surface. Thus, a top surface of the bond pad may lie below the plane of the top surface of the substrate. A device with recessed connective element(s) (e.g., bond pad) is also described. In further embodiments, a protective layer is formed on the recessed connective element during dicing of a substrate.