Document Document Title
US08634048B2 Liquid crystal device with controlled thicknesses ratio of inorganic layers and method of manufacturing liquid crystal device
A liquid crystal device according to embodiments of the invention includes a first alignment layer that is disposed on the first substrate and includes a second alignment layer that is disposed on the second substrate. The first alignment layer includes a first inorganic layer and a second inorganic layer which having a column-like structure with an orientation angle different from an orientation angle of the column-like structure of the first inorganic layer. The second alignment layer includes a third inorganic layer and a fourth inorganic layer which having a column-like structure with an orientation angle different from an orientation angle of the column-like structure of the third inorganic layer. The ratio of the thickness of the second inorganic layer to the thickness of the first inorganic layer is different from the ratio of the thickness of the fourth inorganic layer to the thickness of the third inorganic layer.
US08634047B2 Liquid crystal display device and electronic apparatus
A liquid crystal display device includes a device substrate that includes a pixel electrode, a counter substrate that is formed opposite the device substrate and that includes a counter electrode, a liquid crystal layer that is formed between the device substrate and the counter substrate, a first alignment layer that is formed on a side of the device substrate which is closer to the liquid crystal layer, and a second alignment layer that is formed on a side of the counter substrate which is closer to the liquid crystal layer. The pixel electrode is made of a material having a work function smaller than that of a material for the counter electrode. The first alignment layer has substantially the same density as that of the second alignment layer, and the thickness d1 of the first alignment layer is greater than the thickness d2 of the second alignment layer.
US08634046B2 Optical element having an alignment layer for an optical anisotropic body
An optical element having an alignment layer for an optical anisotropic body, in which the generation of damages in the alignment layer is effectively prevented by providing an optical element having an alignment layer for an optical anisotropic body, wherein a stress releasing layer is formed as an underlying layer for the alignment layer.
US08634044B2 Display device and manufacturing method thereof
In a semi-transmission liquid crystal display device, two resist masks are required to form a reflective electrode and a transparent electrode; therefore, cost is high. A transparent electrode and a reflective electrode which function as a pixel electrode are stacked. A resist pattern which includes a region having a thick film thickness and a region having a thinner film thickness than the aforementioned region is formed over the reflective electrode by using a light exposure mask which includes a semi-transmission portion. The reflective electrode and the transparent electrode are formed by using the resist pattern. Therefore, the reflective electrode and the transparent electrode can be formed by using one resist mask.
US08634036B2 Transflective liquid crystal display device with barrier metal layer between ohmic-contact layer and source/drain electrode patterns and fabrication method thereof
A trans-reflective LCD and a manufacturing method thereof are provided to simplify a manufacturing process and improve yield by reducing the number of masks and implement high definition by preventing wavy noise. A first substrate divided into a pixel unit and first and second pad units is provided. Through a first mask process, a gate electrode and a gate line are formed in the pixel unit of the first substrate. Through a second mask process, an active pattern of an island type is formed on the gate electrode in a state when a first insulating layer is interposed. On the active pattern, an n+ amorphous silicon thin film pattern and a conductive layer pattern are formed. Through a third mask process, a source electrode and a drain electrode are formed in the pixel unit of the first substrate. A data line crosses the gate line to define a pixel area comprising a reflection unit and a transmission unit. Through the third mask process, a pixel electrode comprising a transparent conductive layer is formed in the transmission unit of the pixel area. Through a fourth mask process, a second insulating layer is formed on the first substrate. Through a fifth process, a reflection electrode comprising an opaque conductive layer is formed in the reflection unit of the pixel area. The first substrate is deposited with a second substrate.
US08634031B2 Remote control terminal and information processing apparatus
Provided is a remote control terminal, including: a first terminal-side wireless-communication unit configured to interactively communicate with a control-target information processing apparatus by using a first wireless communication system, to control the information processing apparatus; a second terminal-side wireless-communication unit configured to interactively communicate with the information processing apparatus by using a second wireless communication system, the second wireless communication system being higher in speed than the first wireless communication system; a camera unit configured to obtain video data; and a first controller configured to control the second terminal-side wireless-communication unit to transmit the video data obtained by the camera unit to the information processing apparatus by using the second wireless communication system.
US08634025B2 Stand-by mode transitioning
A device for rapidly instituting an active mode of a digital-television enabled system, the system including a first, volatile memory configured to load and store software instructions, includes: an input configured to receive first digital audio and video information; a first output configured to convey second audio and information toward a display regarding the first audio and video information; at least one second output configured to convey commands to, and receive information from, the first memory; and a processor configured to perform functions in accordance with software instructions stored in first and second memories and to cause the first memory to load software instructions for provision to the processor such that first instructions for processing at least one of the first audio information and the first video information are loaded and stored by the first memory with a higher priority than second instructions for performing other functionality.
US08634023B2 System for video frame synchronization using sub-frame memories
A circuit and a method of using the circuit for video frame synchronization are provided. The circuit includes a memory having a capacity less than a full video frame and a “first in first out” (FIFO) interface controlling the memory, further removing the post-read buffer in the memory, and overwriting the post-read buffer in the memory with new data. Some embodiments of the circuit for video frame synchronization provide a wide data bus having a high bandwidth interface to the memory circuit to allow reduced memory clock rate. Some embodiments of the circuit further include a processor that produces a clock signal and measures an input data rate. The processor controls the FIFO interface to generate an output data stream at a preselected frequency, with a preselected phase. More generally, other embodiments of the present invention provide a circuit wherein the processor may be used as a data rate converter and video input timing aberration filter.
US08634015B2 Image capturing apparatus and method and program for controlling same
An image capturing apparatus includes an image sensor provided in the neighborhood of an image plane of a photographing optical system for forming the image of a subject; pupil dividing member for forming images of a pair of light beams that have passed through different pupil regions of the photographing optical system; focus detection sensors arranged two-dimensionally for photoelectrically converting images of the pupil dividing member; and a correlation calculation unit which, in order to obtain one focus measurement value from one pair of two-dimensional images generated by the focus detection sensors and extending in the pupil dividing direction of the pupil dividing member and in a direction perpendicular to the pupil dividing direction, calculates the correlation between the pair of two-dimensional images while shifting the pair of two-dimensional images in the pupil dividing direction.
US08634011B2 Image sensor using light-sensitive device and method of operating the image sensor
Provided are an image sensor using a light-sensitive oxide semiconductor material as a light-sensitive device and a method of operating the image sensor for acquiring RGB values of incident light in the image sensor, the image sensor includes an array of a plurality of light-sensing cells wherein each of the light-sensing cells includes a light-sensitive oxide semiconductor layer that forms a channel region of an oxide semiconductor transistor. Electronic characteristics of the light-sensitive oxide semiconductor layer vary according to an amount of light irradiated onto the light-sensitive oxide semiconductor layer. Each of the light-sensing cells constitutes a single unit color pixel.
US08634002B2 Image processing device and method for image correction
An image processing device includes an input unit which inputs image data that is generated by an imaging element including specific pixels, first image generation pixels that are the image generation pixels adjacent to the specific pixels, and second image generation pixels that are the image generation pixels not adjacent to the specific pixels, and includes a luminance value generated by each of the pixels, and a color mixture correction unit which corrects color mixture such that a change value of luminance caused by light leaked from the specific pixels to the first image generation pixels is calculated based on luminance values of each of specific pixels adjacent to the first image generation pixels and correction of color mixture to the first image generation pixels caused by the leaked light is performed.
US08634001B2 Image processing apparatus, image processing program, image processing method, and image-pickup apparatus
An image processing apparatus configured to process an image taken by an image-pickup unit includes a memory configured to store a relationship between a color shift amount at positions that are symmetrical with respect to an origin of an image and a blur amount relating to a curvature of field at the positions symmetrical with respect to the origin of the image, a detector configured to detect a color shift amount at the positions that are symmetrical with respect to the origin of the image, an acquirer configured to acquire the blur amount relating to the curvature of field corresponding to the color shift amount detected by the detector based on the relationship stored in the memory, and a processor configured to execute image processing that is asymmetrical with respect to the origin so as to correct the blur amount relating to the curvature of field acquired by the acquirer.
US08633992B2 Focus detection device, photographic lens unit, image-capturing apparatus and camera system
A focus detection device includes: a focus detection unit that includes a pair of light-receiving element arrays and lens systems via which a pair of focus detection light fluxes are each guided to one of the pair of light-receiving element arrays, and detects an image shift amount based upon output signals output from the pair of light-receiving element arrays; an acquisition unit that obtains a plurality of sets of opening data pertaining to sizes and positions of a plurality of openings; a function value calculation unit that calculates, based upon the plurality of sets of opening data, a function value pertaining to a gravitational center distance between gravitational centers of a pair of overlapping areas where a pair of specific focus detection pupils overlap an exit pupil; and a conversion unit that converts the image shift amount to a defocus amount based upon the function value.
US08633990B2 Imaging apparatus, method of controlling the same, and program
An imaging apparatus includes a communication unit that executes data communication with a predetermined number of external devices, a search unit that searches for external devices that can executes data communication with the imaging apparatus, and a determination unit that, if the search unit finds a number of external devices that is greater than the predetermined number, determines with which of the external devices communication is to be activated. The determining unit is configured to, in case that the imaging unit executes an imaging process, preferentially activate communication with external devices that are used in the imaging process.
US08633987B2 Video processing system providing image pattern detection based upon image transition boundaries and related methods
A video processing system may include an input for receiving video data including video signal values for a corresponding plurality of image pixels and having an image pattern therein. The system may further include a processor coupled to the input for determining a series of video signal value differences for each pair of adjacent image pixels along at least one direction, detecting at least one image transition boundary based upon the series of video signal value differences, and detecting the image pattern based upon the at least one image transition boundary.
US08633984B2 Process of sequentially dubbing a camera for investigation and review
A system for and a method of creating a coherent video data stream of an object moving between a plurality of areas covered by a plurality of data collecting devices is provided. The method includes selecting a plurality of data collecting devices from the plurality of data collecting devices, synchronizing video data streams from the selected plurality of data collecting devices, substantially simultaneously reviewing the video data streams from the selected plurality of data collecting devices, specifying periods of interest for the video data streams from the selected plurality of data collecting devices, and sequentially combining portions of the video data streams into the coherent video data stream, the portions corresponding to the specified periods of interest.
US08633966B2 Information processing device, information processing method, program, and data structure
There is provided an information processing device enabling a content of 3D image to be appropriately reproduced from a recording medium. A virtual extent read out from a recording medium recorded with interleaved data obtained by dividing each of a base stream and an enhanced stream into extents Ext1 and Ext2, and arranging the Ext1 and Ext2 in an interleaved manner so that the Ext1 and Ext2 are adjacent to each other, and a file entry of a 2D reproduction file in which the Ext1 is stored in a reproducing order, and a 3D type 1 reproduction file in which the virtual extent is stored in a reproducing order, with a set of Ext1 and Ext2, which are adjacent to each other in the interleaved data, as the virtual extent, is divided into the Ext1 and Ext2 using the file entry of the 2D reproduction file.
US08633962B2 Video decoder which processes multiple video streams
In some embodiments, a spatially multiplexed output decoder may spatially multiplex video packets received in a time multiplexed video stream. A video stream with video packets from two or more sources may be received along with metadata. In some embodiments, a decoder may organize the video packets into respective buffers (e.g., each buffer including video packets for a respective video image). The spatially multiplexed output decoder may spatially multiplex the video images (which are made up of data from the respective video packets) into a video frame to be outputted (e.g., to a separate buffer). The video images in the video frame may then be demultiplexed in other parts of the system (e.g., in a virtual decoder) using information provided about the video frame (e.g., in metadata formed with the video frame).
US08633961B2 Mobile terminal and method of providing video calls using the same
A mobile terminal and a method of providing a video call using the same are disclosed. More particularly, a mobile terminal capable of supporting a video call while ensuring user's privacy by mounting a three-dimensional depth camera and a two-dimensional camera in the mobile terminal and a method of providing a video call using the same are disclosed. The mobile terminal of the present invention includes a 2D camera 200 capturing a 2D video and a 3D depth camera 210 capturing a 3D depth video; an individual image separation module 112 extracting boundary information between a user and a background by using depth information regarding a video captured by the 3D depth camera 210; a composite video generation module 114 separating the user video from the video captured by the 2D camera 200 by using the extracted boundary information and composing the separated user video and the set background video.
US08633960B2 Communication device for processing person associated pictures and video streams
A communication device (1, 1′, 1″) with at least one wireless communication channel is configured to receive digital pictures and/or video streams from at least one remote source. The communication device (1, 1′, 1″) is configured to test whether at least one person who is/are associated with said communication device by pre-stored person identification data is identifiable in the digital pictures and/or video streams of the remote source, and to process the digital pictures and/or video streams of the remote source only if the result of the person identification test is positive.
US08633958B2 Image processing method, and image processor
The present invention provides an image processing method which includes at least any one of image recording and image erasing, wherein a light irradiation intensity at a center position of the laser beam irradiated in the image recording is controlled; in the image recording, a first auxiliary line extended by a predetermined distance from a start point of each of image lines constituting an image in the opposite direction from the scanning direction and a second auxiliary line extended by a predetermined distance from an end point of each of the image lines in the scanning direction are prepared, and when the first and second auxiliary lines including an image line are continuously scanned, the image line is scanned with irradiating the laser beam, and the first and the second auxiliary lines are scanned without irradiating the laser beam to thereby record the image.
US08633954B2 System and method for forming an image on a substrate
A scanning laser having a wavelength compatible with a coating binder so as to cure it as the laser scans and irradiates the coating on a moving web. A system and method for curing flakes by providing a scanning laser which scans across a moving coated substrate in a magnetic field allows images to be formed as magnetically aligned flakes are cured into a fixed position. The images have regions of cured aligned flakes. The scanning laser cures the magnetically aligned flakes within it region it irradiates. Alternatively an array of lasers can be used wherein individual lasers can be switched on and off to fix irradiated coating as a moving web is moved at a high speed.
US08633953B2 Developer cartridge for image-forming device
A developer cartridge provided in an image-forming device has a developer side casing that includes a toner-accommodating chamber and a developing chamber; and a plate wall disposed in the developing chamber for partitioning a thickness-regulating blade from the toner-accommodating chamber. When a thickness-regulating blade scrapes excess charged toner off the developing roller, the plate wall prevents this charged toner from returning to the toner-accommodating chamber. A flexible wiper for cleaning toner detection windows is attached to an agitator for stirring toner in the toner-accommodating chamber via a fixing member. The fixing member includes a support plate and a gripping plate disposed opposite each other with a slit formed therebetween. The wiper is inserted into the slit and is fixed to the fixing member when a boss protruding from a restricting plate becomes inserted into a through-hole formed in the wiper.
US08633948B2 Single-pass and order-independent transparency in computer graphics using constant memory
A single-pass, order-independent method in support of rendering transparency effects into a computer generated image is provided. A geometric primitive of a scene is rasterized so as to convert the geometric primitive into a set of pixels. For at least each pixel or subpixel, a stipple pattern is selected from a set of unique stipple patterns. The set of unique stipple patterns is characterized by a select opacity value with the stipple pattern delimiting a unique set of pixels in the computer generated image which contributes to a visible surface determination.
US08633946B2 Interactivity with a mixed reality
Methods of interacting with a mixed reality are presented. A mobile device captures an image of a real-world object where the image has content information that can be used to control a mixed reality object through an offered command set. The mixed reality object can be real, virtual, or a mixture of both real and virtual.
US08633943B2 Image display apparatus, image display method, and program storage medium for arranging and displaying images of a plurality of tones
An image display apparatus includes a storage unit configured to store first images, a processor configured to change tones of first reduced images of the first images to first tones, and a display configured to display the first reduced images of the first images in a column direction or a row direction, and to display tone-changed reduced images of the first images in the row direction or the column direction.
US08633940B2 Method and system for texture compression in a system having an AVC decoder and a 3D engine
A texture compression engine of a graphics device receives an uncompressed texture of a 3D graphic application. The received uncompressed texture is transcoded into an AVC reference picture stream. A plurality of mipmaps is constructed from the received uncompressed texture. The texture compression engine determines a texture compression rate based on available memory capacities. The texture compression engine compresses the received texture and its mipmaps at the determined texture compression rate. The compressed texture and mipmaps are further transcoded into the AVC reference picture stream and stored. The transcoded texture and mipmaps comprise either RGB or YCbCr components for a RGB uncompressed texture. The transcoded texture and mipmaps comprise monochrome or luma components for an ARGB uncompressed texture. A graphics accelerator in the graphics device is operable to acquire the stored texture and mipmaps for a 3D graphics scene. The acquired texture and mipmaps are decompressed by AVC decoding.
US08633939B2 System and method for painting 3D models with 2D painting tools
An 2D layer containing texture coordinate information is inserted into a layered image snapshot of a 3D scene perspective. The layered image snapshot can be painted using 2D painting techniques and then imported back into the 3D scene by using the texture coordinate information to map modified pixels back into the 3D scene.
US08633938B2 List searching method and portable device using the same
A method and a portable device controls output of a display unit to display information accurately and clearly regardless of a background image. Disclosed is an arrangement for calculating a difference between an arbitrary expression value of an arbitrary screen configuration element to be displayed on a given area of the background image and an actual expression value of the given area of the background image. Each expression value includes at least one of a color and lightness. The arrangement automatically selects the expression value of the screen configuration element based on the calculation result. The screen configuration element is displayed at the given area of the background image based on the selected arbitrary expression value.
US08633934B2 Creating animations
Animation creation is described, for example, to enable children to create, record and play back stories. In an embodiment, one or more children are able to create animation components such as characters and backgrounds using a multi-touch panel display together with an image capture device. For example, a graphical user interface is provided at the multi-touch panel display to enable the animation components to be edited. In an example, children narrate a story while manipulating animation components using the multi-touch display panel and the sound and visual display is recorded. In embodiments image analysis is carried out automatically and used to autonomously modify story components during a narration. In examples, various types of handheld view-finding frames are provided for use with the image capture device. In embodiments saved stories can be restored from memory and retold from any point with different manipulations and narration.
US08633926B2 Mesoscopic geometry modulation
Techniques are provided for mesoscopic geometry modulation. A first set of mesoscopic details associated with an object is determined by applying a filter to an image of an object. Mesoscopic details included in the first set of mesoscopic details are detectable in the image of the object and are not detectable when generating a coarse geometry reconstruction of the object. A three-dimensional model for the object is generated by modulating the coarse geometry with the first set of mesoscopic details.
US08633922B2 Power supplying apparatus for organic light emitting display
There is provided a power supplying apparatus for an organic light emitting display in which a control circuit is provided between the input end of the power supplying apparatus and DC-DC converters for generating power sources in order to prevent a power sequence from being changed by the unintentional formation of a current path. The power supplying apparatus for an organic light emitting display includes a first switching element having a gate electrode coupled to a first node and coupled between an input end and an output end of the control circuit, a second switching element, to whose gate electrode a control signal is applied and which is coupled between the input end of the control circuit and the first node, and a third switching element, to whose gate electrode the control signal is applied and which is coupled between the first node and a ground.
US08633911B2 Force sensing input device and method for determining force information
The embodiments described herein provide devices, systems and methods that facilitate improved performance in an input device. The input device, for example, may include an input surface configured to rotate about a first axis, a proximity sensor configured to sense an input object in a sensing region proximate to the input surface of the input device, a force sensor configured to sense a force applied to the input surface of the input device, and a processing system communicatively coupled to the proximity sensor and the force sensor. The processing system may be configured to determine a position of the input object in the sensing region, and determine force information for the input object based upon the position of the input object, the force applied to the input surface, and a location of the force sensor relative to the first axis.
US08633909B2 Information processing apparatus, input operation determination method, and input operation determination program
An information processing apparatus includes: a touch detection unit detecting touch of an instruction object on an operation surface; a proximity detection unit detecting proximity of the instruction object to the operation surface; and a control unit determining whether the touch of the instruction object is a predetermined input operation based on the detection result, which is obtained by the touch detection unit when the touch detection unit detects the touch of the instruction object, and at least one of the detection results, which are obtained by the proximity detection unit before and after the touch of the instruction object.
US08633908B2 Method of fabricating electronic apparatus
A method of fabricating an electronic apparatus having an active region and a peripheral region surrounding the active region is described. A first main device and a second main device are provided. An optical clear liquid adhesive (OCLA) is applied between the first main device and the second main device and within the active region. A photo-mask having a transparent region and an opaque region is provided above the second main device, and the transparent region corresponds to the peripheral region. An OCLA diffusion process is performed such that the OCLA diffuses from the active region to the peripheral region. During the OCLA diffusion process, a first irradiating process with the photo-mask is performed, such that the OCLA diffusing to the peripheral region is partially cured. After removing the photo-mask, a second irradiating process is performed, such that the OCLA is completely cured.
US08633904B2 Touch identification for multi-touch technology
A method of operating a touch-sensing surface may include determining a first plurality of contact locations including a first contact location, determining a second plurality of contact locations including a second contact location, performing a first correlation process for correlating the second contact location with the first contact location when the number of contacts is less than or equal to a first threshold number, and performing a second correlation process for correlating the second contact location with the first contact location when the number of contacts is greater than a second threshold number.
US08633901B2 Handheld electronic device having a touchscreen and a method of using a touchscreen of a handheld electronic device
A handheld electronic device having a touchscreen and a method of using a touchscreen of a handheld electronic device are provided. In accordance with one embodiment, there is provided a method of controlling a handheld electronic device having a touchscreen display, comprising: determining a location of a touch input on a touch-sensitive input surface of the touchscreen display; determining one or more characteristics of a motion signal of a motion sensor of the handheld electronic device; and generating an input from one of at least two inputs associated with the location of the touch input in accordance with the characteristics of the motion signal.
US08633900B2 Screen display method for mobile terminal
A content display method for a mobile terminal is disclosed. The mobile terminal includes at least two hierarchical structures each having at least two contents at a level. The content display method includes: displaying, in response to selection of a content, a window associated with the selected content; displaying, in response to input of a multi-window display request, windows associated with contents at the same level as the selected content together on a single screen; and rearranging, in response to input of a window movement request, the content windows by window movement to display the rearranged content windows together on a single screen. As a result, same-level contents or application windows in execution can be displayed together on a single screen according to a user request. Hence, the user can readily transition between contents or applications with enhanced user convenience.
US08633898B2 Sensor arrangement for use with a touch sensor that identifies hand parts
Apparatus and methods are disclosed for simultaneously tracking multiple finger and palm contacts as hands approach, touch, and slide across a proximity-sensing, multi-touch surface. Identification and classification of intuitive hand configurations and motions enables unprecedented integration of typing, resting, pointing, scrolling, 3D manipulation, and handwriting into a versatile, ergonomic computer input device.
US08633893B2 Pointing device with solid-state roller
A solid-state roller on a pointing device with enhanced features. The solid-state design described herein allows the sensor to be placed on any shape of surface, such as one that has curvature in two directions. In one embodiment, a trench or downward curve contains sensors for detecting finger movement. The user's finger can thus bend about a knuckle in a curved motion to activate the sensor, requiring little or no movement of the finger up and down. The solid-state sensors can be of one of a number of designs. In one embodiment, multiple electrodes are contacted by a finger as it moves. Each electrode is coupled to a capacitive detection circuit, for detecting the change in capacitance as the electrode is contacted by the finger.
US08633892B2 Projection display device having a light combining unit
A projection display device (100) capable of providing a virtual keyboard function to the user, using a light source of a pico projector, is discussed. According to an embodiment, the projection display device includes a light source unit (110) configured to emit lights; a light combining unit (120) configured to generate a leakage light from the lights emitted by the light source (110) unit and to selectively combine the lights from the light source unit (110); an image projection unit (130) configured to project an image using the combined light from the light combining unit (120); and a virtual input unit (140) configured to project an input unit image (150) using the leakage light from the light combining unit (120).
US08633891B2 Protrusion pattern forming device with display function
A protrusion pattern forming device with a display function includes a transparent elastic sheet having an internal layer including colored liquid, and an actuator including a plurality of actuator elements disposed along one surface of the elastic sheet, each of the actuator elements changing its own shape in response to an application of a voltage, thereby allowing the surface of the elastic sheet to protrude. A protrusion pattern is formed on the elastic sheet, and a dot pattern corresponding to the protrusion pattern is displayed on the elastic sheet by selectively driving the plurality of actuator elements.
US08633885B2 Display panel driving apparatus
A display panel driving apparatus supplies pixel driving potentials corresponding to pixel data to the source lines of a display panel. The pixels are located at the intersections of the source lines and a set of scanning lines. For each pixel, the driving potentials are alternately positive and negative with respect to a common reference potential supplied to the display panel. While the display driving apparatus is latching the pixel data for the pixels on each scanning line, the output circuits of the display driving apparatus are disconnected from the source lines, allowing the source lines to return to the common reference potential, thereby avoiding unwanted current flows in the output circuits and unwanted distortion of the pixel driving waveforms.
US08633883B2 Liquid crystal display
The exemplary embodiment relates to a liquid crystal display device. The liquid crystal display panel according to the exemplary embodiment includes: a liquid crystal display panel on which a plurality of data lines cross a plurality of gate lines; a source drive IC that supplies data voltages to the data lines; a gate drive IC that supplies gate pulses to the gate lines; a system board equipped with a scaler that transmits data from the scaler with a first interface specification; an interface board that receives the data according to the first interface specification, and transmitting the data with a second interface specification; and a control board equipped with a timing controller receiving the data in the second interface specification and supplying the data to the source drive IC, and controlling the operating timing of the source drive IC and the gate drive IC; wherein a number of the data transmitting lines required in the second interface specification is less than a number of data transmitting line required in the first interface specification.
US08633875B2 Electroluminescent display panel and electronic apparatus
An electroluminescent display panel has pixel circuits for an active matrix driving system. At least one of the pixel circuits has a thin-film transistor in which a portion of a pattern of a metal wiring material above a channel layer of the thin-film transistor is disposed to shield the channel region of the thin-film transistor.
US08633873B2 Stable fast programming scheme for displays
A technique for improving the spatial and/or temporal uniformity of a light-emitting display by providing a faster calibration of reference current sources and reducing the noise effect by improving the dynamic range, despite instability and non-uniformity of the transistor devices. A calibration circuit for a display panel having an active area having a plurality of light emitting devices arranged on a substrate, and a peripheral area of the display panel separate from the active area is provided. The calibration circuit includes a first row of calibration current source or sink circuits and a second row of calibration current source or sink circuits. A first calibration control line is configured to cause the first row of calibration current source or sink circuits to calibrate the display panel with a bias current while the second row of calibration current source or sink circuits is being calibrated by a reference current. A second calibration control line is configured to cause the second row of calibration current source or sink circuits to calibrate the display panel with the bias current while the first row of calibration current source or sink circuits is being calibrated by the reference current.
US08633872B2 Semiconductor device, and display device and electronic equipment each having the same
Amplitude of a data line is made small, thereby reducing power consumption. Included are a first transistor to which a first scan signal is supplied through a first scan line; a second transistor to which a second scan signal is supplied through a second scan line; a third transistor which is turned on or off depending on a first signal supplied from a current supply line through the first transistor and a second signal supplied from a data line through the second transistor; a pixel electrode; and a light-emitting element which emits light by driving current flowing between the pixel electrode and a counter electrode. The first signal cuts electrical connection between the current supply line and the pixel electrode through the third transistor, and the second signal makes the current supply line and the pixel electrode electrically connected through the third transistor.
US08633869B2 Wireless augmented reality communication system
The system of the present invention is a highly integrated radio communication system with a multimedia co-processor which allows true two-way multimedia (video, audio, data) access as well as real-time biomedical monitoring in a pager-sized portable access unit. The system is integrated in a network structure including one or more general purpose nodes for providing a wireless-to-wired interface. The network architecture allows video, audio and data (including biomedical data) streams to be connected directly to external users and devices. The portable access units may also be mated to various non-personal devices such as cameras or environmental sensors for providing a method for setting up wireless sensor nets from which reported data may be accessed through the portable access unit. The reported data may alternatively be automatically logged at a remote computer for access and viewing through a portable access unit, including the user's own.
US08633868B2 Apparatuses for and methods of displaying three-dimensional images
An apparatus for displaying a three-dimensional (3D) image may include a plurality of display panels and a controller configured to apply image signals to each of the plurality of display panels. At least one of the display panels may include a transparent display panel. The plurality of display panels may be spaced apart from each other in a depth direction. A method of displaying a three-dimensional (3D) image may include displaying plane images on each of a plurality of display panels. At least one of the plurality of display panels may include a transparent display panel. The plurality of display panels may be spaced apart from each other in a depth direction.
US08633865B2 Radome, antenna device and radar apparatus
This disclosure provides a radome to be installed on an emission face side of an antenna, which includes an outer wall having a side cross-section formed in a substantially semi-circular shape to include the antenna therein, and an inner wall arranged between the outer wall and the antenna, and formed in a shape to substantially conform to the outer wall. A gap between the outer wall and the inner wall is wider near both ends on the circumference of the substantially semi-circular shape than at a substantially midpoint on the circumference of the substantially semi-circular shape.
US08633856B2 Compact single feed dual-polarized dual-frequency band microstrip antenna array
A dual-polarized stacked patch antenna array that operates at two different frequencies. The stacked patch antenna array has a single planar patch antenna subarray disposed on opposite sides of a dielectric structure. The stacked patch antenna array includes a ground plane that is common to each planar patch array antenna. Each planar patch antenna subarray is fed from a single coaxial probe disposed through the center of the stacked antenna array structure. Each patch in the planar patch array antenna subarray is electrically connected by microstrip elements. Each patch and microstrip element is arranged along the X and Y axial directions. A single additional microstrip element is placed in a diagonal orientation in each subarray to connect two patches oppositely oriented within the stacked antenna array structure.
US08633852B2 Signal verification
A first position of a satellite is calculated at a first time in dependence on received orbit data corresponding to an orbit path of the satellite. Anan orbit path of the satellite is modeled from the first position at the first time to a second time to determine a second position of the satellite at the second time. A third position of the satellite is then calculated at the second time in dependence on the received orbit data. The second position and third position are compared to determine a validity of the orbit data.
US08633851B2 Low power, space combined, phased array radar
A plurality of mini radars that make the radar system conformable to a structure that it is attached or built into. A radar system includes a clock, a plurality of frequency modulated/continuous wave (FM/CW) radar units in signal communication with the clock and a processor in signal communication with the plurality of FM/CW radar units. Each of the plurality of FM/CW radar units includes a row of antenna elements.
US08633843B2 System and method for chopping oversampled data converters
In accordance with an embodiment, a circuit includes an analog chopping circuit having a first input coupled to a system input and a second input coupled to a first chopping signal, an oversampled data converter having an input coupled to an output of the analog chopping circuit, where the oversampled data converter is configured to produce an oversampled digital signal at an output of the oversampled data converter. The circuit further includes a digital filter having an input coupled to the output of the oversampled data converter, and a digital chopping circuit including a first input coupled to the output of the oversampled data converter, and a second input coupled to a second chopping signal. The digital filter is configured to filter quantization noise generated by the oversampled data converter.
US08633842B2 Methods and apparatus for direct synthesis of RF signals using delta-sigma modulator
Methods and apparatus are provided for direct synthesis of RF signals using a delta-sigma modulator. An RF signal is synthesized from an input signal by quantizing the input signal using a quantizer, such as a one bit quantizer; determining a quantization error associated with the quantizer; generating an error prediction value using an error predictive filter, wherein the error predictive filter comprises one or more filter zeroes on a unit circle for one or more desired frequencies of f1, f2, . . . fn and one or more filter poles having a magnitude inside the unit circle and a frequency substantially equal to the one or more desired frequencies of f1, f2, . . . fn; and subtracting the error prediction value from the input signal. The filter poles have a magnitude that reduces a boost provided out-of-band.
US08633834B2 Alarm apparatus and alarming method
An alarm apparatus includes a first camera facing a first direction of a road, a second camera facing a second direction of the road, a first output device facing the first direction of the road, a second output device facing the second direction of the road, a processor, and a storage unit including a detecting module and a controlling module. The detecting module stores a first instruction executed by the processor, thereby the processor receives the images captured by the first and the second cameras and determines what is the state of the road condition. The controlling module stores a second instruction executed by the processor, thereby the processor controls the first and the second output devices to send out appropriate alarming signals.
US08633829B2 Camera security system
A camera security system for securely detecting, recording and alerting the authorities of an attempted intrusion into a safe or other secure storage device. The camera security system generally includes a secure storage device having a door, a combination lock for selectively opening the door of the secure storage device and a sensor for detecting the positioning and movement of the combination lock. A recording device and communications device are provided and adapted to activate upon movement of the combination lock from a preset position. The recording device will preferably be concealed within a dial grip of the combination lock. Upon activation, the recording device will begin recording audio and/or video of the intrusion and the communications device will transmit an alarm signal to emergency responders.
US08633828B2 System and method for safing and monitoring a plurality of vehicle sensors
A system and method for safing vehicle sensors includes two safety systems, each with a primary sensor for monitoring vehicle motion and activating its corresponding safety system in response to certain vehicle motions. Each sensor may act as a safing sensor for the other in the event that activation of a safety system is indicated by the primary sensor. Each sensor may also monitor the other prior to such an event, to detect a sensor malfunction before that sensor is needed to active a safety system.
US08633824B2 Charger
A charger for an electric power tool includes a charging unit for charging a secondary battery detachably attached to the charger; a notification unit for notifying an operation state of the charging unit by using a combination of a turn-on and turn-off of the notification unit; a brightness reducing unit for reducing a light brightness of the notification unit; and a controller for controlling the notification unit and the brightness reducing unit. If an operation state of the charging unit satisfies a specific condition, the controller controls the brightness reducing unit to reduce the light brightness of the notification unit.
US08633816B2 Electronic reminder and monitoring system for healthcare infection control precautions
A system and method for monitoring personal protection items of a healthcare worker (gloves, gown, mask and respirator), using a user badge which stores data representing items worn by a worker, wirelessly communicating with the badge before the worker enters a patient zone (such as a patient room, bed area or exam table area), to see whether the worker has the required items. Patient beacons, located near patient room doors, near beds and other locations, store data representing the items required by workers who come in contact with, or close proximity to a patient, and wirelessly communicate with the badge. The patient beacon data can be set for the requirement of the patient, based on patient condition.
US08633813B2 Vehicle light system
One embodiment of the present application includes a vehicle illumination system. The vehicle illumination system comprises an input keypad configured to receive at least one input provided by a user. The vehicle illumination system also comprises a controller configured to receive input commands provided by the input keypad and to sequentially control a state of a plurality of output device drivers corresponding to a respective plurality of vehicle lamps. At least one indicator is configured to indicate to a user a condition associated with at least one of the plurality of output device drivers wherein the controller communicates with the indicator by means of a communications protocol.
US08633801B2 Battery authentication system, electronic device, battery, and battery charger
A battery authentication system according to the present invention includes a battery and an electronic device. The battery includes a battery authentication portion that includes battery identification information and performs authentication between the battery and the electronic device. The electronic device includes: a power source that supplies electric power from the battery to respective portions in the electronic device; a storage portion that stores the battery identification information of usable batteries; a device authentication portion that performs authentication of the battery; and a control portion that compares the battery identification information of the battery with the battery identification information stored in the storage portion. The control portion compares the battery identification information of the battery authenticated successfully in the device authentication portion with the battery identification information stored in the storage portion, and controls the power source based on a result of the comparison. According to the battery authentication system of the present invention, it is possible to recognize whether a battery mounted is authenticated or not, and accordingly to determine whether the battery can be used or not. Therefore, it is possible to permit the use of a genuine battery and a non-genuine battery and to eliminate a counterfeit battery.
US08633797B2 Rolling code security system
A rolling code transmitter is useful in a security system for providing secure encrypted RF transmission comprising an interleaved trinary bit fixed code and rolling code. A receiver demodulates the encrypted RF transmission and recovers the fixed code and rolling code. Upon comparison of the fixed and rolling codes with stored codes and determining that the signal has emanated from an authorized transmitter, a signal is generated to actuate an electric motor to open or close a movable barrier.
US08633761B2 Power amplifier insensitive to load impedance changes
Disclosed herein is a power amplifier insensitive to load impedance changes. According to the present invention, the power amplifier comprises a power amplification circuit which amplifies an input signal, an output matching circuit connected to an output terminal of the power amplification circuit to perform impedance matching between the power amplification circuit and an antenna load, and a 4-port coupler connected between the output matching circuit and the antenna load.
US08633749B2 Phase-locked loop (PLL) fail-over circuit technique and method to mitigate effects of single-event transients
A PLL fail-over circuit technique and method to mitigate the effects of single-event transients comprises providing a pair of substantially identical phase-locked loops and producing a respective delayed clock signal from each. The outputs of the phase-locked loops are monitored for errors comprising high frequency transients or differences in clock signal outputs from a reference frequency. A clock out signal is output representative of the first delayed clock signal if an error is detected in the second phase-locked loop and the second delayed clock signal is output if an error is detected in the first phase-locked loop.
US08633746B2 Semiconductor device and radio communication terminal mounting the same
A phase detector, which forms a semiconductor device, detects a phase difference between a reference signal and a feedback signal obtained by feeding back an output signal of an oscillator, and generates a phase difference value indicating a value in accordance with the phase difference. An amplifier amplifies the phase difference value at a gain determined in accordance with a control signal from outside the device. A filter smoothes an output value of the amplifier. The oscillator controls a frequency of the output signal in accordance with an output value of the filter.
US08633745B1 Circuits and related techniques for driving a high side of a half bridge circuit
A level shift circuit is configured to control a high side transistor of a half bridge circuit. The level shift circuit has composite current mirrors and other circuits that reduce the effect of transient voltages that are produced as the half bridge circuit is switched.
US08633744B1 Power reset circuit with zero standby current consumption
A power reset circuit with zero standby current consumption includes a power storage unit, first, second, and third voltage detection units, a switching unit, and a power reset unit. The power storage unit stores electric power by a supply voltage source. The first, second, and third voltage detection units are connected to the supply voltage source to start a switching circuit of the first, second, and third voltage detection units in accordance with a change in a normal supply stage, a shutdown stage, and a voltage ramp-up stage of the supply voltage source, control a voltage level of the power reset unit, and thereby generate the power reset signal. Accordingly, the power reset circuit does not consume current in a standby state (the normal supply stage of the supply voltage source) and thus is characterized by zero current consumption.
US08633740B2 Triangular waveform generator having differential output synchronized with external clock signal
One embodiment of the present invention relates to a waveform generator that includes a first pair of capacitors, a second pair of capacitors, an op amp and control logic. The op amp has inputs and provides a differential triangular waveform at its outputs as an output signal. The control logic includes capacitor control logic, ramp control logic, reset control logic and charge control logic. The capacitor control logic connects a current pair of the first and second capacitors to the inputs of the op amp. The ramp control logic provides ramp currents to the current pair. The reset control logic resets capacitors of a next pair to selected voltage(s), such as zero. The charge control logic charges the next pair of capacitors, typically after the next pair of capacitors has been driven to the selected voltage(s).
US08633739B2 Frequency divider circuit
Fractional frequency division is performed by sequentially selecting phase signals for division, where transitioning from a previous phase signal to a next phase signal for division occurs in response to not only the frequency-divided previous phase signal but also a second one of the phase signals. A phase transition that is triggered at least in part in response to a second phase signal having a phase that is greater (with respect to the phase signal sequence) than the phase of the next phase signal can aid minimization of signal glitches. The first frequency-divided signal can be further divided to produce a second frequency-divided signal having a 50-percent duty cycle.
US08633733B2 Voltage mode transmitter equalizer
A voltage mode transmitter equalizer has high efficiencies, yet consumes substantially constant supply current from the power supply and provides constant back-match impedance. The voltage mode transmitter equalizer is configured such that the output voltage of the signal to be output on a pair of transmission lines can be controlled according to the input data, but its return impedance is substantially matched to the differential impedance of the transmission lines and it draws substantially constant supply current from the power supply regardless of the output voltage of the signal. Further, an equalizer for a voltage-mode transmitter provides fine-granularity equalization settings by employing a variable pull-up conductance and a variable pull-down conductance. Conductance is varied by selectively enabling a plurality of conductance channels, at least some of which have resistance values that are distinct from one another.
US08633717B2 Method and device for determining impedance of depression
A method and the device for position detection are disclosed. The device comprises a plurality of strips intersecting each other to form a plurality of intersecting regions. A pair of depressed strips intersecting on an intersecting region contact to each other on a contact point to form a depressed intersecting region, wherein the contact impedance of the contact point is determined according to the position of the contact point and the voltages on the contact point of one and the other of the pair depressed strips.
US08633713B2 Internal pipe coating inspection robot
There is provided herein a robot-based electrical system for locating holidays within coated pipe that does not utilize a grounding wire. In a preferred arrangement, the robot will carry a metal rotating brush/capacitive pad combination and changes in the capacitance in the brush/pad circuit will be used to identify imperfections in the interior coating of the pipe and especially those located proximate a girth weld. In another preferred embodiment, a circumferential brush will be used that allows testing of the integrity of the internal coating throughout the length of the pipe as the robot travels the pipeline.
US08633707B2 Stacked via structure for metal fuse applications
A back end of the line (BEOL) fuse structure having a stack of vias. The stacking of vias leads to high aspect ratios making liner and seed coverage inside the vias poorer. The weakness of the liner and seed layers leads to a higher probability of electromigration (EM) failure. The fuse structure addresses failures due to poor liner and seed coverage. Design features permit determining where failures occur, determining the extent of the damaged region after fuse programming and preventing further propagation of the damaged dielectric region.
US08633692B2 High field NMR apparatus with excess cooling power and integrated helium re-liquification
A nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) apparatus (10) comprises a superconducting main field magnet coil system (14) which generates a homogeneous magnetic field of at least 3T, and a gradient coil system (15) which generates a gradient strength of at least 10 mTm−1, with a slew rate of at least 100 Tm−1s−1, wherein the main field magnet coil system (14) is arranged in a cryostat (12) with liquid helium and a refrigerator (16) in the form of a pulse tube cooler or a Gifford-McMahon cooler, and wherein an evaporation line (17a, 27a, 37a) is provided for helium that might evaporate from the cryostat. In all states of operation of the NMR apparatus (10) without gradient switching, the refrigerator provides a cooling capacity which is at least 0.3 W above the overall power loss of the cryostat, the evaporation line terminates in a buffer container (19, 29, 39, 39′) disposed outside of the cryostat for collecting the evaporating helium, and a return line (17b, 27b, 37b) is provided for returning the evaporated helium that has been collected in the buffer container into the cryostat. For this reason, a considerable amount of evaporating helium is saved, thereby considerably extending the refill cycles of liquid helium, which greatly disturb and obstruct normal work cycles and are disadvantageous for operation, in particular, in hospitals.
US08633679B2 Method and system for operating a portable electronic device in a power-limited manner
Improved techniques to manage operation of a portable electronic device having a substantially depleted battery when power is available from an external, power-limited source are disclosed. In one embodiment of the invention, the substantially depleted battery can be initially charged while a power-intensive operation is delayed. Once the battery has adequate charge to assist the external, power-limited source in powering the portable electronic device, the power-intensive operation can be performed. In this manner, power consumption of a portable electronic device can be managed so that reliable operation is achieved without exceeding limits on power being drawn from an external, power-limited source.
US08633676B2 Charging status display circuit and electronic device using the same
A charging status display circuit is used in an electronic device. The electronic device includes a power supply circuit, a rechargeable battery, and an interface circuit capable of electrically connecting with the rechargeable battery. The electronic device is powered by either the power supply circuit or the rechargeable battery. The rechargeable battery is charged by the power supply circuit via the interface circuit. The charging status display unit includes a light emitting diode for indicating whether the rechargeable battery is being charged, and a surface-contact diode for clamping a voltage between the light emitting diode and the interface unit at a predetermined value. The light emitting diode is connected in series between the power supply circuit and the interface circuit. The surface-contact diode is connected in parallel with the light emitting diode.
US08633673B2 Battery charging system for notebook computer
The apparatus includes an AC adapter input, a battery charger coupled to the input to charge a battery, a temperature sensor, and system logic to execute code stored on storage devices. The battery charger provides a charging current that is a function of temperature sensed by the temperature sensor. The charging current may also be a function of sensed barometric pressure, battery age, external temperature, a full charge capacity, and system power demand.
US08633667B2 Semiconductor integrated circuit device
A motor speed determining circuit determining a rotation speed of a motor is provided and a processing of generating motor driving waveform is switched in accordance with the rotation speed of the motor. A resolver signal outputted from a resolver 2 is converted to a digital value by an R/D converter 3, and inputted to a computing circuit of resolver value correction 5 via an R/D conversion interface 4. A current value of a motor M is converted to a digital value by an A/D convertor 8. The computing circuit of resolver value correction 5 computes a resolver correction value of the inputted digital signal and calculates positional data from a corrected resolver value. The computing circuit of motor control computes a current instruction value from a motor current value subjected to digital conversion by the A/D converter 8 and a motor current instruction value etc., and a motor waveform output circuit 7 generates a motor driving waveform from the current instruction value and outputs the same to a power module PM.
US08633655B2 LED (Light-Emitting Diode) output power adjusting device and method thereof
An LED (Light-Emitting Diode) output power adjusting device includes an analog/digital conversion and detection circuit, a computation and control unit, a digital/analog conversion control circuit, and a power supply circuit. The analog/digital conversion and detection circuit is connected to an LED based load to detect a forward voltage thereof and converts the forward voltage into an output of digital signal. The computation and control unit perform evaluation and computation on the digital signal of the forward voltage to obtain a digital current control signal indicating a corresponding current. The digital/analog conversion control circuit converts the digital current control signal into an analog current control signal, which is then fed to a constant current drive circuit of the LED based load to adjust an output power of the LED based load to approximate a constant power condition. The power supply circuit supplies working powers for the analog/digital conversion and detection circuit, the computation and control unit, and the digital/analog conversion control circuit. Also disclosed is an LED output power adjusting method.
US08633654B2 Light source driving apparatus
A light source driving apparatus is disclosed which includes a power supply including a power supply terminal connected to a first path through which a power source is supplied to a light source and including a feedback terminal for receiving a feedback of the power source supplied to the light source, a feedback resistor connected to the feedback terminal, and a current divider for branching a current flowing into the first path and supplying the branched current to the feedback resistor.
US08633653B2 Lighting control system with improved efficiency
A lighting system includes a plurality of fixtures, wherein each fixture includes a plurality of fluorescent lamps. A dimming ballast is operatively coupled to each fixture, each dimming ballast receives power from an outside source that is delivered to the fluorescent lamps within each corresponding fixture. A control module communicates with each dimming ballast, the control module receives a lighting level from an outside source, determines the most power efficient lighting solution and outputs a control signal to each dimming ballast related to the light output level of each lamp within each fixture.
US08633650B2 Dimmable light source with light temperature shift
An illumination device (1) comprises: mains input terminals (2, 3); a power source (30), having input terminals (31, 32) coupled to the mains input terminals and having three output terminals (33, 35, 34), one of said output terminals being a common output terminal (35). A first output (36) is defined by a first output terminal and said common output terminal; a second output (37) is defined by a second output terminal and said common output terminal. A first LED string (110) is connected to the first power source output in series with a first resistor (120). A second LED string (210) is connected to the second power source output in series with a second resistor (220). The power source is controllable to vary the voltage at the common output terminal within the range from the voltage at the first output terminal to the voltage at the second output terminal.
US08633642B2 Lamp part fixing by shape memory alloy in the discharge tube of fluorescent lamps
The present disclosure relates to a lamp part fixing device and method for lamp components made of shape memory alloy. The device includes a main body that carries, for example, a main or auxiliary amalgam, getter, etc. located at a desired position within a discharge tube of a fluorescent lamp. For example, the amalgam can be advantageously located at preselected axial locations and/or within a diffusion path. The main body is configurable between a first configuration and a second configuration. The first configuration allows the mount to move within the discharge tube when the shape memory alloy is below an alloy transition temperature. The second configuration of the main body allows for controlled placement and immobilization of the device within the discharge tube when the shape memory alloy is raised above the alloy transition temperature. The device is shaped in a generally planar or non-planar configuration.
US08633638B2 Piezoelectric resonator element, piezoelectric resonator, and acceleration sensor for reducing vibration sensitivity in at least one axis
A piezoelectric resonator element includes: a resonating arm extending in a first direction and cantilever-supported; a base portion cantilever-supporting the resonating arm; and an excitation electrode allowing the resonating arm to perform flexural vibration in a second direction that is orthogonal to the first direction. In the piezoelectric resonator element, the resonating arm includes an adjusting part adjusting rigidity with respect to a bend in a third direction that is orthogonal to the first and second directions.
US08633629B2 Dynamoelectric machine
A U phase winding, an X phase winding, a V phase winding, a Y phase winding, a W phase winding, and a Z phase winding are configured by mounting conductor wires so as to alternate repeatedly between 5π/6 short-pitch windings and 7π/6 long-pitch windings, and are mounted into the stator core in that order so as to be stacked sequentially in a radial direction so as to be offset by one slot each in a first circumferential direction.
US08633624B2 Liquid cooled electrical machine
Flow control apparatus for an electrical machine and comprising an arrangement of shaped chambers and passages for conveying a liquid coolant. The rate of heat transfer from certain portions of the machine to the coolant is determined by the varying velocity of the liquid through the chambers, resulting in a generally uniform cooling of those portions of the machine.
US08633618B2 Semiconductor device and radio communication device
To provide a fast charge means for a capacitor in a negative bias generation circuit. A capacitor is present in a down converter in a negative bias generation circuit. In order to perform fast charge, the capacitance of the capacitor is reduced and a necessary amount of charge is minimized. On the other hand, an external capacitance provided separately from the capacitor in the down converter is coupled directly to a power supply voltage and charged. After the capacitor in the down converter is charged, the external capacitance and the capacitor in the down converter are coupled in parallel. Due to this, it is made possible to aim at both the increase in charge speed and the improvement of resistance to ripple noise.
US08633613B2 Power converter
A power converter includes a DC input (26) connected to an inductive element (TR), a switch (T1) arranged to interrupt the inductive current cyclically with a predetermined cycle period, a plurality of load circuits (31, 32, 33), and a multiplexer (36) having a plurality of parallel channels (M1, M2, M3) between first and second output terminals (34, 38) of the inductive element (TR), wherein each channel includes one of the load circuits (31, 32, 33), and the multiplexer is adapted to make the channels conductive sequentially and periodically, and the multiplexer has a switching period that is a multiple of the predetermined cycle period of the switch (T1).
US08633607B2 Method, park controller and program element for controlling a wind farm
The disclosure relates to a method for controlling a wind farm, the wind farm includes at least two wind turbines, the method includes determining the required power, determining fatigue load versus power curves for each wind turbine, and based on the determined fatigue load versus power curves attributing different power settings to the wind turbines such that sum of the power settings of all wind turbines is equal to the required power. Furthermore, the invention concerns a park controller for controlling a wind farm and a program element for controlling a wind farm.
US08633602B2 Semiconductor device, and method and apparatus for manufacturing the same
According to one embodiment, a manufacturing method of a semiconductor device is disclosed. The method includes: stacking and adhering a second semiconductor chip on a first semiconductor chip via an adhesive layer; adjusting at least one of an elasticity modulus of the adhesive layer, a sink amount of the adhesive layer, a thickness of a protective film at a surface of the first chip, and an elasticity modulus of the protective film such that “y” in a following formula is 70 or less; and sealing the chips by a molding resin with filler particles. y=74.7−82.7a1+273.2a2−9882a3+65.8a4 a1: a logarithm of the modulus of elasticity [MPa] of the adhesive layer a2: the sink amount [mm] of the adhesive layer a3: the thickness [mm] of the protective film a4: a logarithm of the modulus of elasticity [MPa] of the protective film.
US08633600B2 Device and method for manufacturing a device
A device includes a semiconductor material having a first surface. A first material is applied to the first surface and a fiber material is embedded in the first material.
US08633599B2 Semiconductor chip with underfill anchors
Various semiconductor chips and methods of making the same are disclosed. In one aspect, a method of manufacturing is provided that includes forming a first opening in an insulating layer applied to a side of a semiconductor chip. The first opening does not extend through to the side. A second opening is formed in the insulating layer that exposes a portion of the side.
US08633584B2 Electronic assembly with electronic compontent and interconnection assembly connected via conductive bump and mating well
This specification describes techniques for manufacturing an electronic system module. The module includes flexible multi-layer interconnection circuits with trace widths as narrow as 5 microns or less. A glass panel manufacturing facility, similar to those employed for making liquid crystal display, LCD, panels is preferably used to fabricate the interconnection circuits. A multi-layer interconnection circuit is fabricated on the glass panel using a release layer. A special assembly layer is formed over the interconnection circuit comprising a thick dielectric layer with openings formed at input/output (I/O) pad locations. Solder paste is deposited in the openings using a squeegee to form wells filled with solder. IC chips are provided with gold stud bumps at I/O pad locations, and these bumps are inserted in the wells to form flip chip connections. The IC chips are tested and reworked. The same bump/well connections can be used to attach fine-pitch cables. Module packaging layers are provided for hermetic sealing and for electromagnetic shielding. A blade server or supercomputer embodiment is also described.
US08633583B2 Semiconductor package substrate and methods for forming same, in particular for MEMS devices
A semiconductor package substrate suitable for supporting a damage-sensitive device and a package substrate core having an upper and a lower surface. At least one pair of metal layers coats the upper and lower surfaces of the package substrate core. One pair of solder mask layers coats the outer metal layers of the at least one pair of metal layers. A plurality of vias is formed across the package substrate core and the at least one pair of metal layers. Advantageously, the plurality of vias is substantially distributed according to a homogeneous pattern in an area that is to be covered by the damage-sensitive device. A method for the production of such semiconductor package substrate is also described.
US08633582B2 Chip package and fabrication method thereof
A chip package is disclosed. The package includes a carrier substrate and at least one semiconductor chip thereon. The semiconductor chip has a plurality of conductive pads, where a plurality of first redistribution layers (RDLs) is disposed thereon and is electrically connected thereto. A single-layer insulating structure covers the carrier substrate and the semiconductor chip, having a plurality of openings exposing the plurality of first RDLs. A plurality of second RDLs is disposed on the single-layer insulating structure and is electrically connected to the plurality of first RDLs. A passivation layer is disposed on the single-layer insulating structure and the plurality of second RDLs, having a plurality of openings exposing the plurality of second RDLs. A plurality of conductive bumps is correspondingly disposed in the plurality of openings to be electrically connected to the plurality of second RDLs. A fabrication method of the chip package is also disclosed.
US08633576B2 Stacked chip-on-board module with edge connector
A module can include a module card and first and second microelectronic elements having front surfaces facing a first surface of the module card. The module card can also have a second surface and a plurality of parallel exposed edge contacts adjacent an edge of at least one of the first and second surfaces for mating with corresponding contacts of a socket when the module is inserted in the socket. Each microelectronic element can be electrically connected to the module card. The front surface of the second microelectronic element can partially overlie a rear surface of the first microelectronic element and can be attached thereto.
US08633575B1 IC package with integrated electrostatic discharge protection
There is disclosed an integrated circuit (IC) package or semiconductor package including integrated spark or arc gaps which are uniquely configured to reduce the susceptibility of the package to being damaged from an electrostatic discharge (ESD) event. In an exemplary embodiment, each arc gap is collectively defined by an arc gap extension integrally connected to and protruding from the die pad of the package, and a corresponding lead thereof.
US08633572B2 Low ohmic through substrate interconnection for semiconductor carriers
It is described a low ohmic Through Wafer Interconnection (TWI) for electronic chips formed on a semiconductor substrate (600). The TWI comprises a first connection extending between a front surface and a back surface of the substrate (600). The first connection (610) comprises a through hole filled with a low ohmic material having a specific resistivity lower than poly silicon. The TWI further comprises a second connection (615) also extending between the front surface and the back surface. The second connection (615) is spatially separated from the first connection (610) by at least a portion of the semiconductor substrate (600). The front surface is provided with a integrated circuit arrangement (620) wherein the first connection (610) is electrically coupled to at least one node of the integrated circuit arrangement (620) without penetrating the integrated circuit arrangement (620). During processing the TWI the through hole may be filled first with a non-metallic material, e.g. poly silicon. After forming integrated components (620) on top of the front surface the substrate (600) may be thinned and the non-metallic material may be substituted with the low ohmic material, which is in particular a metallic material.
US08633567B2 Devices including a P-I-N diode disposed adjacent a silicide in series with a dielectric material
A device is provided that includes a vertically oriented p-i-n diode that includes semiconductor material, a silicide, germanide, or silicide-germanide layer disposed adjacent the vertically oriented p-i-n diode, and a dielectric material arranged electrically in series with the vertically oriented p-i-n diode. The dielectric material is disposed between a first conductive layer and a second conductive layer, and is selected from the group consisting of HfO2, Al2O3, ZrO2, TiO2, La2O3, Ta2O5, RuO2, ZrSiOx, AlSiOx, HfSiOx, HfAlOx, HfSiON, ZrSiAlOx, HfSiAlOx, HfSiAlON, and ZrSiAlON. Numerous other aspects are provided.
US08633563B2 High-voltage integrated circuit device
A high-voltage integrated circuit device can include, in a surface layer of a p semiconductor substrate, an n region which is a high-side floating-potential region, an n− region which becomes a high-voltage junction terminating region, and an n− region which is an L-VDD potential region. A low-side circuit portion can be disposed in an n− region. Below a pickup electrode disposed in the high-voltage junction terminating region, a universal contact region in Ohmic contact with the pickup electrode can be disposed. The universal contact region has a p+ region and an n+ region that can be disposed in alternating contact along a surface of the p semiconductor substrate. By disposing the universal contact region in this way, the quantity of carriers flowing into the low-side circuit portion can be reduced when a negative surge voltage is input. Consequently, erroneous operation due to latchup of a logic portion can be minimized.
US08633553B2 Process for manufacturing a micromechanical structure having a buried area provided with a filter
A process for manufacturing a micromechanical structure envisages: forming a buried cavity within a body of semiconductor material, separated from a top surface of the body by a first surface layer; and forming an access duct for fluid communication between the buried cavity and an external environment. The method envisages: forming an etching mask on the top surface at a first access area; forming a second surface layer on the top surface and on the etching mask; carrying out an etch such as to remove, in a position corresponding to the first access area, a portion of the second surface layer, and an underlying portion of the first surface layer not covered by the etching mask until the buried cavity is reached, thus forming both the first access duct and a filter element, set between the first access duct and the same buried cavity.
US08633546B2 Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device and associated methods, the semiconductor device including a semiconductor substrate with a first well region, a first gate electrode disposed on the first well region, and a first N-type capping pattern, a first P-type capping pattern, and a first gate dielectric pattern disposed between the first well region and the first gate electrode.
US08633540B2 Integrated circuit with a laterally diffused metal oxide semiconductor device and method of forming the same
An integrated circuit with a transistor advantageously embodied in a laterally diffused metal oxide semiconductor device having a gate located over a channel region recessed into a semiconductor substrate and a method of forming the same. In one embodiment, the transistor includes a source/drain including a lightly or heavily doped region adjacent the channel region, and an oppositely doped well extending under the channel region and a portion of the lightly or heavily doped region of the source/drain. The transistor also includes a channel extension, within the oppositely doped well, under the channel region and extending under a portion of the lightly or heavily doped region of the source/drain.
US08633539B2 Trench transistor and manufacturing method of the trench transistor
A semiconductor device includes a semiconductor body including a first surface and a second surface. The semiconductor device further includes a trench structure extending into the semiconductor body from the first surface. The trench structure includes a first gate electrode part and a first gate dielectric part in a first part of the trench structure, and a second gate electrode part and a second gate dielectric part in a second part of the trench structure. A width of the trench structure in the first part is equal to the width of the trench structure in the second part. The semiconductor device further includes a body region adjoining the first and second gate dielectric parts at a side wall of the trench structure. A distance d1 between a bottom edge of the first gate dielectric part and the first surface and a distance d2 between a bottom edge of the second gate dielectric part and the first surface satisfies 50 nm
US08633536B2 Gate dielectric of semiconductor device
A method of fabricating a semiconductor device having a different gate structure in each of a plurality of device regions is described. The method may include a replacement gate process. The method includes forming a hard mask layer on oxide layers formed on one or more regions of the substrate. A high-k gate dielectric layer is formed on each of the first, second and third device regions. The high-k gate dielectric layer may be formed directly on the hard mask layer in a first and second device regions and directly on an interfacial layer formed in a third device region. A semiconductor device including a plurality of devices (e.g., transistors) having different gate dielectrics formed on the same substrate is also described.
US08633531B2 Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device may include, but is not limited to: a semiconductor substrate; a first insulating film; a conductive film; and a semiconductor film. The semiconductor substrate has a first hole. The semiconductor substrate has a first region into which a first impurity is introduced. The first region is adjacent to a side surface of the first hole. The first insulating film covers at least the side surface and a bottom surface of the first hole. The first insulating film has a second hole adjacent to the side surface of the first hole. The conductive film fills a bottom portion of the first hole. The semiconductor film is positioned over the conductive film. The semiconductor film fills the second hole and is in contact with the first region.
US08633525B2 Scratch protection for direct contact sensors
In capacitive sensor circuits where physical contact is required and excess pressure may be inadvertently applied to the sensor surface, aluminum is not sufficiently hard to provide “scratch” protection and may delaminate, causing circuit failure, even if passivation integrity remains intact. Because hard passivation layers alone provide insufficient scratch resistance, at least the capacitive electrodes and preferably all metallization levels within the sensor circuit in the region of the capacitive electrodes between the surface and the active regions of the substrate are formed of a conductive material having a hardness greater than that of aluminum, and at least as great as the lowest hardness for any interlevel dielectric or passivation material employed.
US08633518B2 Gallium nitride power devices
Enhancement mode III-nitride devices are described. The 2DEG is depleted in the gate region so that the device is unable to conduct current when no bias is applied at the gate. Both gallium face and nitride face devices formed as enhancement mode devices.
US08633516B1 Source/drain stack stressor for semiconductor device
The present disclosure provides a semiconductor device. The device includes a substrate, a fin structure formed by a first semiconductor material, a gate region on a portion of the fin, a source region and a drain region separated by the gate region on the substrate and a source/drain stack on the source and drain region. A low portion of the source/drain stack is formed by a second semiconductor material and it contacts a low portion of the fin in the gate region. An upper portion of the source/drain stack is formed by a third semiconductor material and it contacts an upper portion of the fin in the gate region.
US08633511B2 Method of producing semiconductor device packaging having chips attached to islands separately and covered by encapsulation material
A semiconductor device provided with: an island and an island which are separated from each other; leads which approach the islands at one end; a control element which is attached to the island and is connected to a lead through a thin metal wire; and a switching element which is attached to the island and is connected to the lead through a metal wire. Further, the thin metal wire and the thin metal wire are arranged so as to the intersect.
US08633508B2 Semiconductor element and a production method therefor
A semiconductor device according to the embodiment includes a growth substrate; a first buffer layer having a compositional formula of RexSiy (0≦x≦2, 0≦y≦2) over the growth substrate; and a group III nitride-based epitaxial semiconductor layer having a compositional formula of InxAlyGa1-x-yN (0≦x, 0≦y, x+y≦1) over the first buffer layer.
US08633503B2 Wafer level light emitting diode package and method of fabricating the same
An exemplary embodiment of the present invention discloses a wafer level light emitting diode package that includes a first substrate having an insulating-reflecting layer and an electrode pattern arranged on a surface of the first substrate, and a conductive via, a terminal on which the first substrate is arranged, a second substrate arranged on the first substrate, the second substrate including a cavity-forming opening, the cavity-forming opening exposing the electrode pattern, and a light-emitting chip arranged on the electrode pattern. The light-emitting chip is a flip-bonded light-emitting structure without a chip substrate, and the conductive via electrically connects the electrode pattern and the terminal.
US08633501B2 Light-emitting device having a patterned surface
The disclosure provides a light-emitting device comprising a substrate, an intermediate layer formed on the substrate, a first doped semiconductor layer with first conductivity-type formed on the intermediate layer, a second doped semiconductor layer with second conductivity-type formed on the first doped semiconductor layer, an active layer formed between the first doped semiconductor layer and the second doped semiconductor layer, and a patterned surface having a plurality of ordered pattern units; wherein the patterned surface is substantially not parallel to the corresponding region of the surface of the active layer.
US08633483B2 Recrystallization of semiconductor wafers in a thin film capsule and related processes
An original wafer, typically silicon, has the form of a desired end PV wafer. The original may be made by rapid solidification or CVD. It has small grains. It is encapsulated in a clean thin film, which contains and protects the silicon when recrystallized to create a larger grain structure. The capsule can be made by heating a wafer in the presence of oxygen, or steam, resulting in silicon dioxide on the outer surface, typically 1-2 microns. Further heating creates a molten zone in space, through which the wafer travels, resulting in recrystallization with a larger grain size. The capsule contains the molten material during recrystallization, and protects against impurities. Recrystallization may be in air. Thermal transfer through backing plates minimizes stresses and defects. After recrystallization, the capsule is removed.
US08633474B2 Photovoltaic device having transparent electrode formed with nanoparticles
A photovoltaic device is disclosed that includes a transparent front electrode formed by the self-assembly of conductive nanoparticles from an emulsion coated onto a substrate and dried. The nanoparticles self-assemble into a network-like pattern of conductive traces that define randomly-shaped transparent cells. The cells may be filled with various transparent filler materials and additional layers may be present in the device in addition to conventional components. Processes for forming the transparent electrode are also disclosed.
US08633470B2 Techniques and configurations to impart strain to integrated circuit devices
Embodiments of the present disclosure describe techniques and configurations to impart strain to integrated circuit devices such as horizontal field effect transistors. An integrated circuit device includes a semiconductor substrate, a first barrier layer coupled with the semiconductor substrate, a quantum well channel coupled to the first barrier layer, the quantum well channel comprising a first material having a first lattice constant, and a source structure coupled to the quantum well channel, the source structure comprising a second material having a second lattice constant, wherein the second lattice constant is different than the first lattice constant to impart a strain on the quantum well channel. Other embodiments may be described and/or claimed.
US08633464B2 In via formed phase change memory cell with recessed pillar heater
A method for fabricating a phase change memory device including a plurality of in via phase change memory cells includes forming pillar heaters formed of a conductive material along a contact surface of a substrate corresponding to each of an array of conductive contacts to be connected to access circuitry, forming a dielectric layer along exposed areas of the substrate surrounding the pillar heaters, forming an interlevel dielectric (ILD) layer above the dielectric layer, etching a via to the dielectric layer, each via corresponding to each of pillar heater such that an upper surface of each pillar heater is exposed within each via, recessing each pillar heater, depositing phase change material in each via on each recessed pillar heater, recessing the phase change material within each via, and forming a top electrode within the via on the phase change material.
US08633461B2 Radiation-shielding assemblies and methods of using the same
In one characterization, the present invention relates to a radiation-shielding assembly for holding a container having a radioactive material disposed therein. The assembly may, at least in one regard, be referred to as an elution shield and/or a dispensing shield. The assembly includes a body at least partially defining a cavity. There is at least one opening through the body into the cavity. The assembly may include a cap that at least generally hinders escape of radiation from the assembly through the opening. The cap may be releasably attached to the body in one orientation and may establish non-attached engagement with the body in another orientation. The assembly may include an adjustable spacer system for adapting the assembly for use with containers having different heights.
US08633438B2 Ultrafast electron diffraction device
An ultrafast electron diffraction device for irradiating a sample with a bunch of electrons in an ultrashort pulse in order to perform an ultrafast analysis of the sample. The ultrafast electron diffraction device includes: a) a laser emitter for delivering an ultrashort pulse laser having a pulse width of not more than 1 ps onto a target which is a material for generating electrons at an intensity of not less than 1017 W/cm2; and b) a pulse compressor for rotating, in a magnetostatic field, a bunch of electrons generated from the target onto which the ultrashort pulse laser has been delivered so as to suppress the spread of the bunch of electrons in their traveling direction. The pulse compressor is composed of an entrance-side parallel-plate static magnet, one end of which is placed on the course of the bunch of electrons, and an exit-side parallel-plate static magnet.
US08633436B2 Data acquisition modes for ion mobility time-of-flight mass spectrometry
Methods, apparatus and systems for acquiring spectrometric data from analyte ions implement a combination of drift-type ion mobility (IM) separation and time-of-flight mass spectrometry (TOF MS). Both separation techniques are carried out in tandem while applying mass filtering with a wide window of ion isolation. One mode of operation entails utilizing a mass filter to limit ion packets to ions in a selected m/z range that remains constant over the entire course of data acquisition. Another mode entails utilizing the mass filter to limit ion packets to an m/z range that varies over the course of data acquisition.
US08633434B2 Apparatus and method for pulsed neutron generation including a high voltage power supply
An apparatus for irradiating an earth formation is disclosed. The apparatus includes: a carrier configured to be disposed in the formation; a neutron tube disposed at the carrier and located on an axis; and a high voltage power source disposed at the carrier and electrically connected to the neutron tube, the high voltage power source being offset from the axis.
US08633416B2 Plasmas and methods of using them
Plasma devices and methods for using such plasma devices in analytical measurements are disclosed. In certain examples, a low flow plasma may be operative using a total argon gas flow of less than about five liters per minute, and in some embodiments, a plasma argon gas flow of less than about four liter per minute. In other examples, a plasma produced using inductive and capacitive coupling is disclosed.
US08633413B2 Switchgear assembly with a contact gap
A switchgear assembly has a contact gap and an insulating material nozzle. The insulating material nozzle at least partly encloses the contact gap. A nozzle channel for the insulating material nozzle opens with a outlet opening in a hot gas space. A deflector element is disposed within the hot gas space which defines a deflector channel. The deflector channel has a segment which has an expanding cross-section in the stream direction of a switching gas in the hot gas space.
US08633412B2 Switch device and method of assembling snap action mechanism
A switch device includes a housing having a receiving portion; an operation member that receives a pressing operation; a plurality of fixed contact points provided in the receiving portion side by side at predetermined intervals; a plurality of movable contact points having contact point portions that come into sliding contact with the fixed contact points; and a snap action mechanism that drives the movable contact points when the operation member is pressed to a predetermined position.
US08633410B2 Switch
A switch is coupled to a switch support and includes a push button, a lock assembly, a tab, and a hook. The lock assembly includes an operation ring, which is rotated about the button between an unlock position to permit actuation of the button and a lock state to prohibit actuation of the button, and a lock ring, which is rotated integrally with the operation ring. When the operation ring is located at the lock position, the hook and the tab are arranged at the same position in a circumferential direction, which creates interference between the hook and the tab and blocks actuation of the button. When the operation ring is located at the unlock position, the hook and the tab are separated from each other in the circumferential direction, which avoids interference between the hook and the tab and permits actuation of the button.
US08633404B2 Gangable nail plate
A nail plate is attached to the outer surface of a wall stud to protect a utility from penetration by nails or other fasteners driven through a wall surface. The nail plate has a substantially rectangular shape with a width corresponding to the width of the stud. The nail plate has a first and second longitudinal ends with nail tabs for attaching the nail plate to the stud. The ends of the nail plate have at least one recess and at least one protruding portion where the protruding portion can mate with a recess of an adjacent nail plate is ganged together. The nail plates can have coupling members to couple a plurality of nail plates in series in an end to end fashion. The longitudinal ends of the nail plate enable the ends to abut each other with no open portions that can allow a fastener to pass though. In one embodiment the nail tabs extend in a longitudinal direction with respect to a longitudinal dimension of the nail plate. In another embodiment the nail tabs extend in a transverse direction with respect to the longitudinal dimension of the nail plate.
US08633400B2 Multilayer printed wiring board and method for manufacturing multilayer printed wiring board
A multilayer printed wiring board including a first interlayer resin insulation layer, a first conductive circuit formed on the first interlayer resin insulation layer, a second interlayer resin insulation layer formed on the first interlayer resin insulation layer and the first conductive circuit and having an opening portion exposing a portion of the first conductive circuit, a second conductive circuit formed on the second interlayer resin insulation layer, a via conductor formed in the opening portion of the second interlayer resin insulation layer and connecting the first conductive circuit and the second conductive circuit, and a coating layer having a metal layer and a coating film and formed between the first conductive circuit and the second interlayer resin insulation layer. The metal layer is formed on the surface of the first conductive circuit and the coating film is formed on the metal layer.
US08633378B2 Method of setting conditions for film deposition, photovoltaic device, and production process, production apparatus and test method for same
A photovoltaic device having a high conversion efficiency is produced in a stable manner. The conditions for film deposition of a microcrystalline silicon photovoltaic layer (4) in a photovoltaic device are set based on the Raman peak ratio within a Raman spectrum obtained at the substrate (1) side of the microcrystalline silicon layer (4), and the Raman peak ratio within a Raman spectrum obtained at the opposite side to the substrate (1).
US08633377B2 Light concentration apparatus, systems and methods
An optical concentrator is disclosed which includes an imaging, aplanatic optical element having a front surface with a one-way light admitting portion, a back surface with a reflective portion, and an interior region of refractive material disposed between the front and backs surfaces.
US08633375B2 Solar cell and method for Manufacturing the same
A solar cell and method of manufacturing the same includes a semiconductor substrate having a textured surface and including a plurality of recess portions and a plurality of flat portions, an emitter layer in the plurality of recess portions, a first doping region in at least one of the plurality of flat portions, and doped with a first conductive type impurity selected from one of p-type and n-type impurities, a second doping region in at least one of the plurality of flat portions, and doped with a second conductive type impurity selected from one of p-type and n-type impurities that differs from the first conductive type impurity, and first and second electrodes electrically connected to the first and second doping regions, respectively. The distance between the emitter layer and the first doping region is different from the distance between the emitter layer and the second doping region.
US08633348B2 Genetic vasectomy by overexpression of PRML-EGFP fusion protein in spermatids
The present invention provides a genetically-modified non-human animal whose somatic and germ cells contain an exogenous gene encoding a recombinant fusion protein, wherein the presence, and expression, of said recombinant fusion protein renders said genetically-modified non-human animal sterile. Tools for generating such sterile genetically-modified non-human animal as well as methods of use thereof are also provided.
US08633344B2 Aromatic transformation using UZM-39 aluminosilicate zeolite
A new family of coherently grown composites of TUN and IMF zeotypes has been synthesized and shown to be effective catalysts for aromatic transformation reactions. These zeolites are represented by the empirical formula. NanMmk+TtAl1-xExSiyOz where “n” is the mole ratio of Na to (Al+E), M represents at least one meta, “m” is the mole ratio of M to (Al+E), “k” is the average charge of the metal or metals M, T is the organic structure directing agent or agents, “t” is the mole ratio of N from the organic structure directing agent or agents to (Al+E), and E is a framework element such as gallium. The process involves contacting at least a first aromatic with the coherently grown composites of TUN and IMF zeotypes to produce at least a second aromatic.
US08633335B2 Retinoid prodrug compound
A compound represented by the following general formula (I): [R1 to R5 represent hydrogen atom, an alkyl group, or a trialkylsilyl group, X represents —NH—CO—, —CO—NH—, —N(COR6)—CO—, —CO—N(COR7)— (R6 and R7 represent a lower alkoxy group, or a carboxy-substituted phenyl group) etc.; and Z represents —Y—CH(R12)—COOH, —CHO, —CH═CH—COOH, or —COOR13 (Y represents a single bond, —CH2—, —CH(OH)—, —CO—, —CO—NH—, or —CO—NH—CH2—CO—NH—, R12 represents hydrogen atom or a lower alkyl group, and R13 represents hydrogen atom, —CH(R14)—COOH(R14 represents hydrogen atom, a lower alkyl group, or hydroxy group), —[CH2CH2—O]n—CH2—CH2—OH, —CH2—O—[CH2CH2—O]m—CH2—OH, or —[CH(CH3)—CO—O]p—CH(CH3)—COOH (m, n and p represent an integer of 1 to 100))], a salt thereof or an ester thereof, which has a property of being converted into a retinoid after absorption in vivo.
US08633331B2 Nanocomposite materials comprising metal-organic-framework units and methods of using same
The present invention relates to nanocomposite materials comprising: graphite-based material dispersed among transition metal-organic framework (MOF) units, wherein the graphite-based material is chemically linked to MOF units; wherein the graphite-based material is present in the range of about 5 wt. % to about 60 wt. % of the composite material.
US08633329B2 Titanium-containing precursors for vapor deposition
Disclosed are titanium-containing precursors and methods of synthesizing the same. The compounds may be used to deposit titanium, titanium oxide, strontium-titanium oxide, and barium strontium titanate containing layers using vapor deposition methods such as chemical vapor deposition or atomic layer deposition.
US08633325B2 Method for making insect repellent composition
Dihydronepetalactone, a minor natural constituent of the essential oil of catmints (Nepeta spp.) such as Nepeta cataria, has been identified as an effective insect repellent compound. Synthesis of dihydronepetalactone may be achieved by hydrogenation of nepetalactone, the major constituent of catmint essential oils. This compound, which also has fragrance properties, may be used commercially for its insect repellent properties, and methods for making an composition thereof are disclosed.
US08633324B2 Denibulin di-hydrochloride
MN-029 di-hydrochloride (MN-029.2HCl, Formula 2) is a potent vascular targeting agent. The present invention focuses on the synthesis and characterization of the di-hydrochloride salt MN-029 and the preparation of pharmaceutically acceptable formulations thereof. Methods are disclosed of using the compound and formulations thereof in the treatment of diseases that rely on the generation of neovasculature by angiogenesis for disease progression.
US08633321B2 Synthesis of (4-fluoro-3-piperidin-4-yl-benzyl)-carbamic acid tert-butyl ester and intermediates thereof
The present invention is an improved method for the preparation of (4-fluoro-3-pyridin-4-yl-benzyl)-carbamic acid tert-butyl ester, compound of formula I. The invention is directed to a method of synthesis for the compound of formula I in three steps, comprising formation of 5-((tert-butoxycarbonyl)aminomethyl)-2-fluorobenzeneboronic acid (compound 11), reaction of compound 11 under Suzuki coupling conditions to yield (4-fluoro-2-pyridin-4-yl-benzyl)-carbamic acid tert-butyl ester and selective hydrogenation of the aforementioned product under hydrogenation conditions yields compound I. The invention is also directed to the intermediates 5-((tert-butoxycarbonyl)amino-methyl)-2-fluorobenzeneboronic acid (compound 11), and (4-fluoro-3-pyridin-4-yl-benzyl)-carbamic acid tert-butyl ester (compound 13).
US08633319B2 7-(1H-pyrazol-4-yl)-1,6-naphthyridine compounds as Syk inhibitors
The present invention relates to a compound of formula (I): or a salt thereof; which is an inhibitor of spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) and therefore potentially of use in treating diseases resulting from inappropriate activation of mast and/or basophil cells, macrophages, and B-cells and related inflammatory responses and tissue damage, for instance inflammatory disease and/or allergic disorders, and in cancer therapy, specifically heme malignancies, chronic spontaneous urticaria and autoimmune conditions.
US08633316B2 Producing method of nitrogen containing condensed heterocyclic compound
Provided is a method for producing a nitrogen-containing condensed heterocyclic compound containing the step of: reacting a compound represented by Formula (1a) or Formula (1b) with a compound represented by Formula (2) under existence of cupper or a cupper ion, and a ligand to produce a nitrogen-containing condensed heterocyclic compound represented by Formula (3a) or Formula (3b):
US08633310B2 Therapeutic substituted lactams
Herein are described compounds having a structure or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein Y, A, and B are as described. Methods, compositions, and medicaments related thereto are also disclosed.
US08633302B2 Variable tangential flow filtration
The current invention reports a method for concentrating an immunoglobulin solution by tangential flow filtration wherein the transmembrane pressure and the cross-flow are variable.
US08633300B2 Selective reduction and derivatization of engineered proteins comprising at least one non-native cysteine
The present invention relates to method for selective reduction and derivatization of recombinantly prepared engineered proteins comprising at least one non-native cysteine, wherein the reduction reaction is conducted in the presence of a redox buffer or in the presence of a triarylphosphine reducing agent.
US08633296B1 Composite hydrogels for delivery of biologically active materials
A composite hydrogel comprises an amphiphilic triblock copolymer (ABA) and a loaded micelle bound by noncovalent interactions. The loaded micelle comprises a biologically active substance and an amphiphilic diblock copolymer (CD). The A blocks comprise a steroidal repeat unit (repeat unit 1) having both a backbone carbonate and a side chain bearing a steroid functional group. Each of the A blocks has a degree of polymerization of about 0.5 to about 4.0. The B block comprises a first poly(alkylene oxide) backbone. The C block comprises a second poly(alkylene oxide) backbone. The D block comprises a steroidal repeat unit (repeat unit 2) having both a backbone carbonate group and a side chain comprising a steroid functional group. The composite hydrogel is capable of controlled release of the biologically active substance.
US08633295B2 Blend of polylactic acid resin and copolyester resin, and molded product using same
A blend of polylactic acid resin and copolyester resin and a molded article using the same having superior impact resistance and heat resistance are disclosed. The blend of polylactic acid resin and copolyester resin includes: 5 to 95 weight % of polylactic acid resin; and 5 to 95 weight % of copolyester resin which is a copolymerization product of an acid component including terephthalic acid and a diol component including 5 to 99 mol % of 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol and 1 to 60 mol % of isosorbide(bio monomer), and has a repeated structure of an acid moiety derived from the acid component and a diol moiety derived from the diol component.
US08633291B2 Reactive liquid ceramic binder resin
A reactive liquid ceramic binder suitable for the production of ceramic products from ceramic powders is provided. The reactive liquid ceramic binder contains organo-modified siloxane compounds, wherein the liquid organo-modified siloxane compounds contain organoalkoxysiloxane units according to general formula (I) wherein R1=alkyl radical and/or aryl radical, R2═H and/or alkyl radical with 1 to 4 carbon atoms, a≧0 and ≦2, and b<0 and ≦3, with the proviso that a+b≧1 and ≦4.
US08633286B2 Catalyst compositions comprising support materials having an improved particle-size distribution
A catalyst composition that includes a support material having an improved particle-size distribution is provided. Processes for producing polyolefin composition also are provided. Polymers and films also are provided. An example of a catalyst composition is a supported multi-transition-metal catalyst composition that includes: (a) at least two catalyst components selected from the group consisting of: a nonmetallocene catalyst component and a metallocene catalyst component; (b) a support material that has a D50 of less than about 30 microns and a particle size distribution having a D90/D10 ratio of less than about 6; and (c) an activator.
US08633280B2 Methods of modifying polymers with highly active and selective metathesis catalysts
The present invention provides methods of depolymerizing and hydrogenating polymers using a transition metal catalyst represented by formula Ia or Ib: where the structural variables are defined herein.
US08633274B2 Aqueous dispersions of reactive gluing agents, method for the production and the use thereof
Aqueous dispersions of reactive sizes comprise cationic polymers comprising vinylamine units as a protective colloid, the protective colloid comprising less than 0.0001% by weight, based on the protective colloid, of diketenes.
US08633267B2 Liquid phosphite compositions having different alkyl groups
A composition comprising a mixture of at least two different alkylaryl phosphites, wherein some alkyl groups have a different number of carbon atoms than other alkyl groups and wherein the mixture is a liquid at ambient conditions.
US08633255B2 Saponified fatty acids as breakers for viscoelastic surfactant-gelled fluids
Fluids viscosified with viscoelastic surfactants (VESs) may have their viscosities affected (increased or reduced, e.g. gels broken) by the indirect or direct action of a composition that contains at least one fatty acid that has been affected, modified or reacted with an alkali metal base, an alkali earth metal base, ammonium base, and/or organic base compound, optionally with an alkali metal halide salt, an alkali earth metal halide salt, and/or an ammonium halide salt. The composition containing the resulting saponification product is believed to either act as a co-surfactant with the VES itself to increase viscosity and/or possibly by disaggregating or otherwise affecting the micellar structure of the VES-gelled fluid. In a specific, non-limiting instance, a brine fluid gelled with an amine oxide surfactant may have its viscosity broken with a composition containing naturally-occurring fatty acids in canola oil or corn oil affected with CaOH, MgOH, NaOH and the like.
US08633245B2 PAI-1 inhibitor
The compound represented by the following formula (I) and the like have PAI-1 inhibition activity;wherein: R1 represents a C6-10 aryl group which may be substituted or the like; T represents a single bond or the like; m represents 0 or 1; when m is 0, G represents —N—C(═O)—CO2H or the like; when m is 1, G represents an oxygen atom or the like; R2 represents a C6-10 aryl group which may be substituted or the like; E represents the following formula (II) wherein one of R31, R32, R33 and R34 represents the formula R1-T-, each of the other three independently represents a hydrogen atom or the like, and R35 represents the formula —X—Y′, a hydrogen atom or the like; X represents —CH2— or the like; Y′ represents a carboxy group or the like; M represents a single bond or the like.
US08633236B2 Compounds, compositions and methods
Compounds useful for treating cellular proliferative diseases and disorders by modulating the activity of KSP are disclosed.
US08633231B2 Substituted imidazolones, compositions containing such compounds and methods of use
The present invention relates to compounds of the general structure shown in Formula (A): (A): and includes pharmaceutically acceptable salts, solvates, esters, prodrugs, tautomers, and isomers of said compounds. Pharmaceutical compositions and methods of treatment are also included.
US08633227B2 Synthesis and novel salt forms of (R)-3-((E)-pyrrolidin-3-yl)vinyl)-5-tetrahydropyran-4-yloxy)pyridine
The present invention relates to (R)-3-((E)-2-(pyrrolidin-3-yl)vinyl)-5-(tetrahydropyran-4-yloxy)pyridine, its salt forms, and to processes for the commercial-scale production of these compounds in sufficient purity and quality for use in pharmaceutical compositions.
US08633214B2 Spiro (piperidine-4,2′-pyrrolidine)-1-(3,5-trifluoromethylphenyl) methylcarboxamides as NK1 tachikynin receptor antagonists
Compounds of formula (I) or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof processes for their preparation, compositions containing them, and uses thereof in the treatment of diseases and conditions for which antagonism of NK1 is beneficial.
US08633213B2 Crystalline form F of imatinib mesylate
Crystalline forms of imatinib mesylate (F, G, H, I and K) and their respective characterization are disclosed.
US08633204B2 4-methylpyridopyrimidinone compounds
The present invention is directed to novel 4-methylpyridopyrimidinone compounds of Formula (I), and to salts thereof, their synthesis, and their use as inhibitors of phosphoinositide 3-kinase alpha (PI3-Kα).
US08633199B2 Medicine consisting of concomitant use or combination of DPP-IV inhibitor and other diabetic medicine
The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a medicine which is excellent in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, diabetic complications or impaired glucose tolerance. The present invention provides a medicine characterized in that a compound represented by the following general formula (I), a salt thereof, or a solvate thereof, and at least one kind of other diabetic medicine: (wherein R1, R2, R3 and R4 are each a hydrogen atom, a trifluoromethyl group or a C1-3 alkyl group).
US08633198B1 Small molecule inhibitors of influenza A RNA-dependent RNA polymerase
Antiviral compositions and methods are contemplated that are especially effective in the treatment and prevention of influenza A viruses. Also presented are cellular assays to identify small molecule compounds having antiviral properties, particularly as it relates to detection of influenza A RNA-dependent RNA polymerase activity in a mammalian cell independent of other influenza A components. Preferred assays allow for identification of viral replication inhibitors that do not disrupt normal cellular activity.
US08633196B2 Benzenesulfonamide compounds, method for synthesizing same, and use thereof in medicine as well as in cosmetics
Benzenesulfonamide compounds having a structure of formula (I) are described. Also described, are methods for synthesizing the compounds and to the use thereof in pharmaceutical compositions for human or veterinary medicine and in cosmetic compositions.
US08633195B1 Method of inhibiting apolipoprotein-E expression comprising administering a triarylmethyl amine compound
This invention offers an effective method of inhibiting the expression of apolipoprotein E by mammalian cells. Apolipoprotein E is a protein that plays a significant role in the development of Alzheimer's Disease in humans. The method comprises administering an effective amount of a triarylmethyl amine compound having the general formula: wherein the R1 group may comprise acyclic amines and aliphatic amines. The R2 group may comprise one of three aryl varieties: aryl, substituted aryl, or heterocycle. Triarylamine compounds inhibit apolipoprotein E expression in mammalian cells. In one aspect of the invention the mammalian cells may be human cells, and more specifically may be human brain cells.
US08633192B2 Compositions and uses thereof
Compositions and their use in the treatment or prevention of hyperglycemia and related diseases or disorders are disclosed.
US08633188B2 Aminodihydrothiazine derivatives
A composition having BACE 1 inhibitory activity containing a compound represented by the general formula (I): wherein ring A is an optionally substituted carbocyclic group or an optionally substituted heterocyclic group; E is lower alkylene; X is S, O, or NR1; R1 is a hydrogen atom or lower alkyl; R2a, R2b, R3a, R3b, R4a and R4b is each independently a hydrogen atom, halogen, or hydroxy etc.; n and m are each independently an integer of 0 to 3; n+m is an integer of 0 to 3; R5 is a hydrogen atom or substituted lower alkyl; its pharmaceutically acceptable salt, or a solvate thereof.
US08633186B2 Modulation of chemosensory receptors and ligands associated therewith
The present invention includes methods for identifying modifiers of chemosensory receptors and their ligands, e.g., by determining whether a test entity is suitable to interact with one or more interacting sites within the Venus flytrap domains of the chemosensory receptors, and modifiers capable of modulating chemosensory receptors and their ligands. The present invention also includes modifiers of chemosensory receptors and their ligands having Formula (I), its subgenus, and specific compounds. Furthermore, the present invention includes ingestible compositions comprising the modifiers of chemosensory receptors and their ligands and methods of using the modifiers of chemosensory receptors and their ligands to enhance the sweet taste of an ingestible composition or treat a condition associated with a chemosensory receptor. In addition, the present invention include processes for preparing the modifiers of chemosensory receptors and their ligands.
US08633175B2 Compounds as antagonists or inverse agonists at opioid receptors
Novel compounds which are antagonists or inverse agonists at one or more of the opioid receptors, pharmaceutical compositions containing them, to processes for their preparation.
US08633173B2 Preparation and uses of 1,2,4-triazolo [1,5a] pyridine derivatives
This application relates, in part, to compounds of the general Formula I and/or salts thereof, wherein X, R1A, R1B, R2, R3, R4, and R5 are as defined herein. The application also relates to compositions and methods of inhibiting at least JAK2 in subjects in recognized need thereof for the treatment of diseases or disorders for which inhibition of at least JAK2 is indicated.
US08633171B2 Transparent oil gelling system
The invention relates to a gellant system for a polar oil comprising gellant effective amounts of silica, a sugar fatty acid ester and a long chain polymer. The gellant system of the invention is useful in gelling polar oils to produce transparent or translucent gels useful in topical compositions.
US08633168B2 Inhibitors of S-adenosyl-L-methionine decarboxylase
Novel mechanism-based inhibitors of S-adenosyl-L-methionine decarboxylase are provided. These compounds of formula (1) inhibit the life cycle of trypanosomes, and are useful to treat subjects infected with African trypanosomes. The invention includes pharmaceutical compositions and methods of using the compounds of formula (1).
US08633166B2 Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus active metabolites
This present provides kaempferol-3-(2-E,3-Z-di-p-coumaroyl)-rhamnoside, kaempferol-3-(2-Z-3-E-di-p-coumaroyl)-rhamnoside, and kaempferol-3-(2,3-di-Z-p-coumaroyl)-rhamnoside compounds useful as a new class of anti-bacterial agents. These compounds are extracted from Platanus occidentalis. These compounds were found to exhibit anti-bacterial activity against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).
US08633165B2 Neuroprotective effects of 2DG in traumatic brain injury
This invention provides methods for reducing the extent and progression of traumatic brain injury and its deleterious sequellae specifically cognitive decline, post-traumatic epilepsy, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other adverse consequences depending on the progression of the initial injury, comprising administering to a TBI victim in need thereof a therapeutically-effective amount of an antiglycolytic compound, particularly 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG) or glycolysis-inhibiting analogs thereof. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions of 2-DG or glycolysis-inhibiting analogs thereof for use in the methods of the invention.
US08633163B2 Template-fixed peptidomimetics
Template-fixed β-hairpin peptidomimetics of the general formula (I) wherein Z is a template-fixed chain of 4 α-amino acid residues which, depending on their positions in the chain (counted starting from the N-terminal amino acid) are Gly, or of certain types which, as the remaining symbols in the above formula, are defined in the description and the claims, and salts thereof, have the property to agonize or to antagonize GPCR receptors such as CXCR3, urotensin and CCR10. They can be used as medicaments to treat or prevent diseases such as cardiovascular disorders, dermatological disorders, endocrine system and hormone disorders, metabolic diseases, inflammatory diseases, neurological diseases, respiratory diseases, haematological diseases and cancer. These β-hairpin peptidomimetics can be manufactured by a process which is based on a mixed solid- and solution phase synthetic strategy.
US08633153B2 Transthyretin variants
The present invention provides a means for increasing the serum half-life of a selected biologically active agent by utilizing transthyretin (TTR) as a fusion partner with a biologically active agent. Specifically, the present invention provides substantially homogenous preparations of TTR (or a TTR variant)-biologically active agent fusions and PEG-TTR (PEG-TTR variant)-biologically active agent fusions. As compared to the biologically active agent alone, the TTR-biologically active agent fusion and/or PEG-TTR-biologically active agent fusion has substantially increased serum half-life.
US08633147B2 Modified silicone polymer as anti foam agent and detergent composition having the same
A modified silicone polymer as an anti foam agent, its preparation and detergent formulations involving selective organopolysiloxane antifoam composition/agent for use as fabric wash detergent adapted for excellent antifoaming effect in rinsing cycle with preferred defoaming effect in washing cycles. The anti foam agent for detergent formulations and the like is directed to not only save huge amount of waste water but also help to preserve massive amount precious clean water for desirable favorable use and application. It would provide for detergent formulations and the like which would favor both the washing and rinsing cycles and make washing of clothes/fabrics more convenient and user friendly apart from taking care of avoiding unnecessary wastage of valuable water and saving the environment from unnecessarily wastage of water in hand wash and/or semi automatic machine washing and the like.
US08633141B2 Thermally stable subsea control hydraulic fluid compositions
An aqueous hydraulic fluid composition comprising of one or more lubricants such as a monovalent metal salt, ammonium, or amine salt of a dicarboxylic acid, such as a C21 dicarboxylic acid is described in which the aqueous hydraulic fluid composition demonstrates increased thermal stability when exposed to elevated temperatures for a prolonged period of time while being able to tolerate the presence of 10% v/v synthetic seawater. The aqueous hydraulic fluid composition contains less than about 20% by weight (preferably none or substantially none) of an oil selected from the group consisting of mineral oils, synthetic hydrocarbon oils, and mixtures thereof. The hydraulic fluid hereof preferably comprises a cyclical or ring base tertiary amine with no hydroxyl functionality such as 1,4-dimethyl piperazine.
US08633140B2 Functionalized polydiacetylene sensors
A microarray includes a solid substrate having a surface, the surface having a plurality of binding spots and a plurality of reaction moieties bound to the binding spots. A reaction moiety includes a plurality of polyacetylene monomers, the polyacetylene monomers having a first coupling region and a second coupling region, the first coupling region having a first functional group operable to bind to the binding spot and the second coupling region comprising a second functional group operable to bind to an accessory molecule; and an accessory molecule having a binding region and an analyte reaction region, the analyte reaction region operable to selectively bind to the target analyte, and the binding region operable to bind to the second coupling region of the polyacetylene monomer. Upon binding a target analyte with the reaction moiety, a color change from the polyacetylene monomer occurs and the reaction moiety produces fluorescence.
US08633138B2 Method for depositing oxide films on textured metal pipes
Method of depositing a buffer layer of epitaxial metal oxide on a functionalised surface of a textured metal substrate, said method comprising the following steps: (1) a layer is deposited of a precursor of an oxide of the type A2−xB2+xO7 where A represents a metal of valency 3 or a mixture of several of these metals, and B a metal of valency 4, and x is a number between −0.1 and +0.1, from a solution of carboxylates of said metals A and B, (2) said layer of oxide precursor is left to dry, (3) heat treatment is carried out in order to pyrolyse said oxide precursor and to form the oxide, at least part of said heat treatment being carried out under a flow of reducing gas.
US08633137B2 High-temperature superconducting tape
Disclosed herein is a high-temperature superconducting tape, including: a substrate; a buffer layer formed on the substrate; and a high-temperature superconducting layer formed on the buffer layer, wherein the substrate is made of SUS310s or stainless steel containing 0.01-1% of silicon (Si) and 1-5% of molybdenum (Mo) and has an average metal crystal grain size of 12 μm or less, and the high-temperature superconducting layer is made of a ReBCO (ReBa2Cu3O7, Re=Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Dy, Ho, Y)-based superconductive material. The high-temperature superconducting tape is advantageous with the result that a high-grade superconducting layer can be deposited on the thin buffer layer and thus the critical current density of the high-temperature superconducting tape can be improved, thereby remarkably improving the characteristics of the high-temperature superconducting tape.
US08633118B2 Method of forming thin metal and semi-metal layers by thermal remote oxygen scavenging
Methods for forming thin metal and semi-metal layers by thermal remote oxygen scavenging are described. In one embodiment, the method includes forming an oxide layer containing a metal or a semi-metal on a substrate, where the semi-metal excludes silicon, forming a diffusion layer on the oxide layer, forming an oxygen scavenging layer on the diffusion layer, and performing an anneal that reduces the oxide layer to a corresponding metal or semi-metal layer by oxygen diffusion from the oxide layer to the oxygen scavenging layer.
US08633112B2 Thermal anneal of block copolymer films with top interface constrained to wet both blocks with equal preference
Methods for fabricating sub-lithographic, nanoscale microstructures utilizing self-assembling block copolymers, and films and devices formed from these methods are provided.
US08633104B2 Methods of manufacturing three-dimensional semiconductor devices
According to example embodiments, a methods includes forming a peripheral structure including peripheral circuits on a peripheral circuits region of a substrate, recessing a cell array region of the substrate to form a concave region having a bottom surface lower than a top surface of the peripheral structure, forming a stacked layer structure conformally covering the concave region, the stacked layer structure including a plurality of layers sequentially stacked and having a lowest top surface in the cell array region and a highest top surface in the peripheral circuits region, forming a planarization stop layer that conformally covers the stacked layer structure, and planarizing the stacked layer structure using the planarization stop layer in the cell array region as a planarization end point to expose top surfaces of the thin layers between the cell array region and the peripheral circuits region simultaneously with a top surface of the peripheral structure.
US08633102B2 Module comprising a semiconductor chip
A module includes a semiconductor chip having at least a first terminal contact surface and a second terminal contact surface. A first bond element made of a material on the basis of Cu is attached to the first terminal contact surface, and a second bond element is attached to the second terminal contact surface. The second bond element is made of a material different from the material of the first bond element or is made of a type of bond element different from the type of the first bond element.
US08633099B1 Method for forming interlayer connectors in a three-dimensional stacked IC device
A method is used with an IC device including a stack of dielectric/conductive layers to form interlayer connectors extending from a surface of the device to the conductive layers. Contact openings are created through a dielectric layer to a first conductive layer. N etch masks, with 2N−1 being less than W, 2N being greater than or equal to W, have spaced apart open etch regions and mask regions elsewhere. The stack of layers are etched only through W−1 contact openings to create extended contact openings extending to W−1 conductive layers; 2n−1 conductive layers are etched for up to half of the contact openings for each etch mask n=1, 2 . . . N. The contact openings are etched with different combinations of the etch masks' open etch regions. Interlayer connectors are formed in the contact openings.
US08633097B2 Single-junction photovoltaic cell
A method for forming a single-junction photovoltaic cell includes forming a dopant layer on a surface of a semiconductor substrate; diffusing the dopant layer into the semiconductor substrate to form a doped layer of the semiconductor substrate; forming a metal layer over the doped layer, wherein a tensile stress in the metal layer is configured to cause a fracture in the semiconductor substrate; removing a semiconductor layer from the semiconductor substrate at the fracture; and forming the single junction photovoltaic cell using the semiconductor layer. A single-junction photovoltaic cell includes a doped layer comprising a dopant diffused into a semiconductor substrate; a patterned conducting layer formed on the doped layer; a semiconductor layer comprising the semiconductor substrate located on the doped layer on a surface of the doped layer opposite the patterned conducting layer; and an ohmic contact layer formed on the semiconductor layer.
US08633095B2 Semiconductor device with voltage compensation structure
A semiconductor device with a high voltage compensation component is manufactured by etching a trench into an epitaxial semiconductor material doped with n-type dopant atoms and p-type dopant atoms and disposing a first semiconductor or insulating material along one or more sidewalls of the trench. The first semiconductor or insulating material has a dopant diffusion constant which is at least 2× different for the n-type dopant atoms than the p-type dopant atoms. A second semiconductor material is disposed in the trench along the first semiconductor or insulating material. The second semiconductor material has a different dopant diffusion constant than the first semiconductor or insulating material. More n-type dopant atoms or p-type dopant atoms are diffused from the epitaxial semiconductor material through the first semiconductor or insulating material into the second semiconductor material than the other type of dopant atoms so that a lateral charge separation occurs between the second semiconductor material and the epitaxial semiconductor material.
US08633094B2 GaN high voltage HFET with passivation plus gate dielectric multilayer structure
A method of fabricating a multi-layer structure for a power transistor device includes performing, within a reaction chamber, a nitrogen plasma strike, resulting in the formation of a nitride layer directly on a nitride-based active semiconductor layer. A top surface of the nitride layer is then exposed to a second source. A subsequent nitrogen-oxygen plasma strike results in the formation of an oxy-nitride layer directly on the nitride layer. The nitride layer comprises a passivation layer and the oxy-nitride layer comprises a gate dielectric of the power transistor device.
US08633092B2 Quantum well device
An apparatus includes a primary planar quantum well and a planar distribution of dopant atoms. The primary planar quantum well is formed by a lower barrier layer, a central well layer on the lower barrier layer, and an upper barrier layer on the central well layer. Each of the layers is a semiconductor layer. One of the barrier layers has a secondary planar quantum well and is located between the planar distribution of dopant atoms and the central well layer. The primary planar quantum well may be undoped or substantially undoped, e.g., intrinsic semiconductor.
US08633091B2 Chip package and fabrication method thereof
A chip package includes a substrate having a pad region, a device region, and a remained scribe region located at a periphery of the substrate; a signal and an EMI ground pads disposed on the pad region; a first and a second openings penetrating into the substrate to expose the signal and the EMI ground pads, respectively; a first and a second conducting layers located in the first and the second openings and electrically connecting the signal and the EMI ground pads, respectively, wherein the first conducting layer and the signal pad are separated from a periphery of the remained scribe region, and wherein a portion of the second conducting layer and/or the EMI ground pad extend(s) to a periphery of the remained scribe region; and a third conducting layer surrounding the periphery of the remained scribe region to electrically connect the second conducting layer and/or the EMI ground pad.
US08633088B2 Glass frit wafer bond protective structure
A bonded semiconductor device comprising a support substrate, a semiconductor device located with respect to one side of the support substrate, a cap substrate overlying the support substrate and the device, a glass frit bond ring between the support substrate and the cap substrate, an electrically conductive ring between the support substrate and the cap substrate. The electrically conductive ring forms an inner ring around the semiconductor device and the glass frit bond ring forms an outer bond ring around the semiconductor device.
US08633086B2 Power devices having reduced on-resistance and methods of their manufacture
A method for forming a support structure for supporting and handling a semiconductor wafer containing vertical FETs formed at the front surface thereof is provided. In one embodiment, a semiconductor wafer is provided having a front surface and a rear surface, wherein the front surface comprises one or more dies separated by dicing lines. The wafer is thinned to a predetermined thickness. A plurality of patterned metal features are formed on a thinned rear surface to provide support for the wafer, wherein each of the plurality of patterned metal features covers substantially one die, leaving the dicing lines substantially uncovered. The wafer is thereafter diced along the dicing lines to separate the one or more dies for later chip packaging.
US08633083B1 Apparatus and method for a metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor with source side punch-through protection implant
A metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET) with source side punch-through protection implant. Specifically, the MOSFET comprises a semiconductor substrate, a gate stack formed above the semiconductor substrate, source and drain regions, and a protection implant. The semiconductor substrate comprises a first p-type doping concentration. The source and drain regions comprise an n-type doping concentration, and are formed on opposing sides of the gate stack in the semiconductor substrate. The protection implant comprises a second p-type doping concentration, and is formed in the semiconductor substrate under the source region and surrounds the source region in order to protect the source region from the depletion region corresponding to the drain region.
US08633082B2 Method for fabricating high-gain MOSFETs with asymmetric source/drain doping for analog and RF applications
A method of fabrication of an analog, asymmetric Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor-Field-Effect-Transistor (MOSFET) is provided. The method may comprise forming a first gate oriented in a first direction over an active region of a semiconductor substrate, forming a second gate extending perpendicular to the first gate over a second active region, using a dual-directional implant process to form a reduced-HALO doped area on a drain side of the first gate and also for a HALO doped area for the second gate, while the source side of the first gate is covered by a resist. Additionally, the method may comprise forming a HALO doped area on the source side of the first gate using a quad-directional implant process using the mask also used for HALO implants of other digital-logic devices on the substrate, while the drain side of the gate is blocked by a resist.
US08633080B2 Methods of making multi-state non-volatile memory cells
A semiconductor device includes a region in a semiconductor substrate having a top surface with a first charge storage layer on the top surface. A first conductive line is on the first charge storage layer. A second charge storage layer is on the top surface. A second conductive line is on the second charge storage layer. A third charge storage layer is on the top surface. A third conductive line is on the third charge storage layer. A fourth charge storage layer has a first side adjoining a first sidewall of the first conductive line and a second side adjoining a first sidewall of the second conductive line. A fifth charge storage layer has a first side adjoining a second sidewall of the second conductive line and a second side adjoining a first sidewall of the third conductive line. Source and drain regions are formed in the substrate on either side of the semiconductor device.
US08633079B2 Method for fabricating a SONOS memory
A method for fabricating SONOS memory is disclosed. The method includes the steps of: providing a semiconductor substrate; forming a first silicon oxide layer, a silicon nitride layer, and a second silicon oxide layer on the surface of the semiconductor substrate; forming a hard mask on the second silicon oxide layer; patterning the hard mask, the second silicon oxide layer, the silicon nitride layer, and the first silicon oxide layer to form a patterned hard mask and a stacked structure; forming a gate oxide layer on surface of the patterned hard mask; removing the gate oxide layer and the patterned hard mask; forming a patterned polysilicon layer on surface of the stacked structure; and forming a source/drain region in the semiconductor substrate adjacent to two sides of the polysilicon layer.
US08633075B2 Semiconductor device with high voltage transistor
A method for manufacturing a semiconductor includes: forming an isolation region defining first, second and third active regions; implanting first impurity ions of a first conductivity type to form first, second and third wells; implanting second impurity ions of the first conductivity type to form first and second channel regions; implanting second impurity ions of a second conductivity to form a first drain region, such that a portion of the first channel region is overlapped with the first drain region; forming first, second and third gate electrodes, the first gate electrode superposing a portion of the first drain region and covering one lateral end of the first channel region; forming first insulating side wall spacers and a second insulating side wall spacer on a side wall of the first gate electrode; and implanting fourth impurity ions of the second conductivity type to form second drain/source regions.
US08633063B2 Integrated circuit packaging system with pad connection and method of manufacture thereof
A method of manufacture of an integrated circuit packaging system includes: forming a peripheral lead having a peripheral lead bottom side, a peripheral lead top side, a peripheral lead non-horizontal side, a peripheral lead horizontal ridge, and a peripheral lead conductive plate, the peripheral lead horizontal ridge protruding from the peripheral lead non-horizontal side; forming a central lead adjacent to the peripheral lead; forming a first top distribution layer on the peripheral lead top side; connecting an integrated circuit to the first top distribution layer; applying an insulation layer directly on a bottom extent of the first top distribution layer and a peripheral lead ridge lower side of the peripheral lead horizontal ridge; and attaching a heatsink to the central lead under the integrated circuit.
US08633046B2 Manufacturing method for semiconductor light-emitting element
Provided are a semiconductor light-emitting element that is capable of efficiently outputting blue color or ultraviolet light, and a lamp using the semiconductor light-emitting element.The semiconductor light-emitting element is obtained by a manufacturing method that, when manufacturing the semiconductor light-emitting element that comprises a compound semiconductor layer that includes at least a p-type semiconductor layer, and a transparent electrode that is provided on the p-type semiconductor layer, includes a step of forming a film comprising an oxide of indium and gallium, or forming a film comprising an oxide of indium, gallium and tin, in an amorphous state on the p-type semiconductor layer, so as to form a transparent conductive film, followed by a step of performing an annealing process on the transparent conductive film at a temperature of 200° C. to 480° C.
US08633045B2 Method for making epitaxial structure
A method for making epitaxial structure is provided. The method includes providing a substrate having an epitaxial growth surface, placing a carbon nanotube layer on the epitaxial growth surface, and epitaxially growing an epitaxial layer on the epitaxial growth surface. The carbon nanotube layer can be a carbon nanotube film drawn from a carbon nanotube array and including a plurality of successive and oriented carbon nanotubes joined end-to-end by van der Waals attractive force therebetween.
US08633033B2 Volumetric induction phase shift detection system for determining tissue water content properties
A method and apparatus of determining the condition of a bulk tissue sample, by: positioning a bulk tissue sample between a pair of induction coils (or antennae); passing a spectrum of alternating current (or voltage) through a first of the induction coils (or antennae); measuring spectrum of alternating current (or voltage) produced in the second of the induction coils (or antennae); and comparing the phase shift between the spectrum of alternating currents (or voltages) in the first and second induction coils (or antennae), thereby determining the condition of the bulk tissue sample.
US08633027B2 Knitted biodegradable silk fabric comprising yarn promoting ingrowth of cells and methods of making
Silk is purified to eliminate immunogenic components (particularly sericin) and is used to form fabric that is used to form tissue-supporting prosthetic devices for implantation. The fabrics can carry functional groups, drugs, and other biological reagents. Applications include hernia repair, tissue wall reconstruction, and organ support, such as bladder slings. The silk fibers are arranged in parallel and, optionally, intertwined (e.g., twisted) to form a construct; sericin may be extracted at any point during the formation of the fabric, leaving a construct of silk fibroin fibers having excellent tensile strength and other mechanical properties.
US08633026B2 Cytokine induction of selectin ligands on cells
Methods and compositions for treating cells with cytokines are provided herein.
US08633022B2 Dual-terminal amide hydrogelling agent
The invention relates to a benzamide derivative represented by formula (1): wherein k1 represents an integer from 0-4, m1 represents an integer from 1-100, and n1 represents an integer from 1-6. In addition, R1 represents a hydrocarbon group with 8-22 carbon atoms bonded to an oxygen atom wherein the oxygen atom is bonded to the adjacent ring of said derivative; R2 represents H or a hydrocarbon group with 1-22 carbon atoms bonded to an oxygen atom wherein the oxygen atom is bonded to the adjacent ring of said derivative; R3 represents H or a hydrocarbon group with 1-22 carbon atoms bonded to an oxygen atom wherein the oxygen atom is bonded to the adjacent ring of said derivative; and R2 and R3 are not H at the same time.
US08633018B2 Fusion protein containing a single-stranded DNA binding protein and methods for expression and purification of the same
The present invention provides an expression vector comprising a promoter and a polynucleotide sequence encoding a fusion protein. The present invention further provides a method for purification of an interest protein. The present invention also provides a fusion protein comprising a single-stranded DNA binding protein and an interest protein or polypeptide fused directly or indirectly with the COOH-terminus or NH2-terminus of the single-stranded DNA binding protein, wherein said fusion protein is capable of binding to single-stranded DNA.
US08633017B2 Device, a system and a method for monitoring and/or cultivation of microscopic objects
The present invention relates to a device, a system and a method for performing monitoring and/or cultivation of microscopic objects. Microscopic objects are in particular microscopic organisms like bacteria and cell cultures, such as cultivation objects like tissue samples and embryos, providing optimal and safe cultivation conditions for incubation during embryo development and for facilitating the selection of optimal embryos to be used in in vitro fertilization (IVF) by facilitating embryo handling for automated digital imaging and time-lapse microscopy.
US08633015B2 Flow-based thermocycling system with thermoelectric cooler
Thermocycling system, including methods and apparatus, for performing a flow-based reaction on a sample in fluid. The system may include a plurality of segments defining at least two temperature regions, and also may include a plurality of heating elements configured to maintain each temperature region at a different desired temperature. At least one of the heating elements may be a thermoelectric cooler operatively disposed to transfer heat to and/or from a temperature region The system further may include a fluid channel extending along a helical path that passes through the temperature regions multiple times such that fluid flowing in the channel is heated and cooled cyclically.
US08633013B2 Assays
A method for assaying a sample for each of multiple analytes is described. The method includes contacting an array of spaced-apart test zones with a liquid sample (e.g., whole blood). The test zones disposed within a channel of a microfluidic device. The channel is defined by at least one flexible wall and a second wall which may or may not be flexible. Each test zone comprising a probe compound specific for a respective target analyte. The microfluidic device is compressed to reduce the thickness of the channel, which is the distance between the inner surfaces of the walls within the channel. The presence of each analyte is determined by optically detecting an interaction at each of multiple test zones for which the distance between the inner surfaces at the corresponding location is reduced. The interaction at each test zone is indicative of the presence in the sample of a target analyte.
US08633012B2 Tailored oils produced from recombinant oleaginous microorganisms
Methods and compositions for the production of oil, fuels, oleochemicals, and other compounds in recombinant microorganisms are provided, including oil-bearing microorganisms and methods of low cost cultivation of such microorganisms. Microalgal cells containing exogenous genes encoding, for example, a lipase, a sucrose transporter, a sucrose invertase, a fructokinase, a polysaccharide-degrading enzyme, a keto acyl-ACP synthase enzyme, a fatty acyl-ACP thioesterase, a fatty acyl-CoA/aldehyde reductase, a fatty acyl-CoA reductase, a fatty aldehyde reductase, a fatty acid hydroxylase, a desaturase enzyme, a fatty aldehyde decarbonylase, and/or an acyl carrier protein are useful in manufacturing transportation fuels such as renewable diesel, biodiesel, and renewable jet fuel, as well as oleochemicals such as functional fluids, surfactants, soaps and lubricants.
US08633010B2 Fungal PepC inhibitor
The present invention relates to an isolated polypeptide having PepC inhibitory activity as well as to a method for producing a heterologous polypeptide of interest in an Aspergillus host cell comprising: (a) cultivating the Aspergillus host cell comprising a first and a second nucleic acid sequences under conditions conducive for the expression of the polypeptides encoded by the said first and second nucleic acid sequences, and wherein the first nucleic acid sequence encodes a heterologous polypeptide of interest and the second nucleic acid encodes the inhibitor polypeptide of the invention, and wherein the inhibitor polypeptide is expressed from a recombinant nucleic acid construct resulting in an increased level of the inhibitor polypeptide compared to an Aspergillus host cell not comprising the recombinant nucleic acid construct; and (b) recovering the heterologous polypeptide.
US08633008B2 Bacterium that can perform complete dechlorination of trichloroethene and the method to dechlorinate soils or ground water contaminated with trichloroethene using the bacterium
The bacterium that can perform complete dechlorination of trichloroethene, and the bacteria consortium containing the bacterium are provided, and the method to dechlorinate soils or ground water contaminated with trichloroethene using the bacterium is also provide.
US08633006B2 Polypeptides having alpha-glucosidase activity and polynucleotides encoding same
The present invention relates to isolated polypeptides having alpha-glucosidase activity and isolated polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides. The invention also relates to nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides as well as methods for producing and using the polypeptides.
US08633000B2 Process for the production of L-Citrulline
Processes for producing a suitable purity grade of L-Citrulline are disclosed. The processes can include contacting crude L-Citrulline in an aqueous solution with an adsorptive medium at a temperature above approximately 50° C. and below the temperature of denaturement for the L-Citrulline for an interval sufficient to remove at least one contaminant from the L-Citrulline. The processes can also include concentrating the dissolved L-Citrulline relative to the aqueous solution.
US08632991B2 Methods and compositions for treating bleeding disorders
Aspects of the invention include methods for enhancing blood coagulation in a subject. In practicing methods according to certain embodiments, an amount of a non-anticoagulant sulfated polysaccharide (NASP) is administered to a subject to enhance blood coagulation in the subject. Also provided are methods for preparing a NASP composition having blood coagulation enhancing activity. Compositions and kits for practicing methods of the invention are also described.
US08632980B2 Gene expression markers for prediction of patient response to chemotherapy
The present invention relates to gene sets useful in assessing prognosis and/or predicting the response of cancer, e.g. colorectal cancer to chemotherapy. In addition, the invention relates to a clinically validated cancer test, e.g. colorectal test, for assessment of prognosis and/or prediction of patient response to chemotherapy, using expression analysis. The present invention accommodates the use of archived paraffin embedded biopsy material for assay of all markers in the relevant gene sets and therefore is compatible with the most widely available type of biopsy material.
US08632979B2 Methods for determining agents that treat or prevent obesity and/or obesity related diseases and methods for treatment therewith
The present invention provides methods for determining a putative agent that treats or prevent obesity and/or obesity related diseases comprising contacting cells with the putative agent and measuring the activity and/or level of Maf1 and/or the activity and/or level of KIAA1875. The present invention also provides the agent identified by the methods herein and methods of treating or preventing obesity and/or obesity related diseases in a subject comprising administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of an agent that inhibits or downregulates Maf1 and/or activates or upregulates KIAA1875.
US08632976B2 Amplification of TRP1 for specific detection of Phytophthora ramorum
Phytophthora ramorum is currently a devastating disease for many plant species and infection presents significant economic problems, and in particular has lead to devastating effects on many specie of oak trees. The present invention provides methods and kits for selective detection of Phytophthora ramorum by amplification of indole-3-glycerol-phosphate synthase N-5′-phosphoribosyl anthranilate isomerase (trp1) in order to provide a method for detection of the presence of P. ramorum infection in a biological sample.
US08632966B2 Detection of biological molecules by differential partitioning of enzyme substrates and products
This invention relates to a method and apparatus for detecting a biological molecule associated with enzyme activity in a sample. The invention is applicable to detecting a microorganism associated with an enzyme in a sample such as water, food, soil, or a biological sample. According to a preferred embodiment of the method of the invention, a sample containing an enzyme of interest or a microorganism associated with the enzyme is combined with a suitable substrate, and a fluorescent product of the enzyme-substrate reaction is selectively detected. The fluorescent product is detected with a partitioning element or optical probe/partitioning element of the invention. In one embodiment the partitioning element provides for partitioning of only the fluorescent product molecule into the probe. The invention also provides an automated system for monitoring for biological contamination of water or other samples.
US08632964B2 Detection system
The present invention relates to methods of making nanoarrays for use in detecting species formed on the surface of the array using SE(R)RS. The methods can involve nanolithographic printing of a compound by dip pen nanolithographic printing. A SE(R)RS substrate can be used for the array and which can be selected from surfaces roughened by the oxidation-reduction cycle (ORC), island films, colloidal nanoparticles and surface-confined nanostructures. A coating or intermediate layer, such as a layer formed of nitrocellulose, can be provided between the compound and the SE(R)RS substrate. There are also provided arrays themselves and methods of using such arrays.
US08632951B2 Positive-working lithographic printing plate precursor for infrared laser and process for making lithographic printing plate
A positive-working lithographic printing plate precursor for infrared laser is provided that includes, layered sequentially above a support, a lower layer and an upper layer, the lower layer and/or the upper layer including an infrared absorbing agent, either the lower layer comprising an alkali-soluble group-containing graft copolymer or the upper layer comprising a sulfonamide group-, active imide group-, and/or amide group-containing graft copolymer, and the graft copolymer being a polyurethane resin having as a graft chain an ethylenically unsaturated monomer-derived constitutional unit. There is also provided a process for making a lithographic printing plate, the process including in sequence an exposure step of imagewise exposing by means of an infrared laser the positive-working lithographic printing plate precursor for infrared laser and a development step of developing using an aqueous alkali solution with a pH of 8.5 to 10.8.
US08632950B2 Cyanine dyes and lithographic printing plate precursors comprising such dyes
A lithographic printing plate precursor includes a cyanine dye, characterized in that the cyanine dye includes two different chromophoric groups, a chromophoric group that has its main absorption in the infrared region and another chromophoric group that has its main absorption in the visible light region. The cyanine dye has preferably a structure according to Formula I:
US08632948B2 Positive-working photoimageable bottom antireflective coating
The invention relates to a photoimageable antireflective coating composition capable of forming a pattern by development in an aqueous alkaline solution, comprising, (i) a polymer A soluble in a coating solvent and comprises a chromophore, a crosslinking moiety, and optionally a cleavable group which under acid or thermal conditions produces a functionality which aids in the solubility of the polymer in an aqueous alkaline solution and; (ii) at least one photoacid generator; (iii) a crosslinking agent; (iv) optionally, a thermal acid generator; (v) a polymer B which is soluble in an aqueous alkaline solution prior to development, where polymer B is non-miscible with polymer A and soluble in the coating solvent, and; (vi) a coating solvent composition, and (vii) optionally, a quencher. The invention also relates to a process for imaging the antireflective coating.
US08632944B2 Method of using mask film to form relief images
A mask-forming film has a transparent layer between the imageable layer and the carrier sheet, which transparent layer has a refractive index that is lower (by at least 0.04) than that of the carrier sheet or any immediately adjacent layer between it and the carrier sheet. This lower refractive index layer modifies the path of incident radiation during mask image transfer so as to provide steeper shoulder angles in the relief image solid areas. This mask film is used to form a relief image such as in a flexographic printing plate.
US08632933B2 Developer for electrostatic latent image development and image forming method
A developer for electrostatic latent image development including a positively chargeable toner and a fatty acid metal salt is used, in which the fatty acid metal salt is a metal salt selected from the group consisting of zinc, calcium, and magnesium salts of fatty acids of 12 to 20 carbon atoms and has a certain volume average particle diameter and particle size distribution.
US08632930B2 Method and apparatus for performing dark field double dipole lithography (DDL)
A method of generating complementary masks for use in a dark field double dipole imaging process. The method includes the steps of identifying a target pattern having a plurality of features, including horizontal and vertical features; generating a horizontal mask based on the target pattern, where the horizontal mask includes low contrast vertical features. The generation of the horizontal mask includes the steps of optimizing the bias of the low contrast vertical features contained in the horizontal mask; and applying assist features to the horizontal mask. The method further includes generating a vertical mask based on the target pattern, where the vertical mask contains low contrast horizontal features. The generation of the vertical mask includes the steps of optimizing the bias of low contrast horizontal features contained in the vertical mask; and applying assist features to the vertical mask.
US08632924B2 Solid oxide fuel cells and manufacturing method thereof
Provided are a solid oxide fuel cell and a method of manufacturing the same. The solid oxide fuel cell in which at least one or more unit modules are stacked and integrated with each other includes first and second solid electrolyte layers in which each of the unit modules includes a plurality of fuel electrodes spaced a predetermined distance from each other and each having a strip shape and first and second supports each including a plurality of slits each having the same strip shape as that of each of the fuel electrodes. The first and second solid electrolyte layers overlap with each other on lower and upper sides of the first support so that the fuel electrodes face each other within the slits of the first support, and the second support overlaps with a lower side of the first or second solid electrolyte layer overlapping with the lower side of the first support so that the slits of the second support are disposed perpendicular to the slits of the first support. The slits of the first and second supports define fuel paths and air paths, respectively.
US08632917B2 Organic electrolyte solution including vinyl-based compound and lithium battery using the same
An organic electrolyte solution includes a lithium salt; an organic solvent including a high permittivity solvent and a low boiling solvent; and a vinyl-based compound represented by Formula 1 below, wherein m and n are each independently integers of 1 to 10; X1, X2, and X3 each independently represent O, S, or NR9; and R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, and R9 are represented in the detailed description. The organic electrolyte solution of the present invention and a lithium battery using the same suppress degradation of an electrolyte, providing improved cycle properties and life span thereof.
US08632914B2 Triazolium and imidazolium salts and uses thereof
The present disclosure relates to certain new and known triazolium and/or imidazolium salts and to their therapeutic use, for example in methods of treating or preventing an infection by a Plasmodium or Babesia parasite in a subject in need thereof. The triazolium and imidazolium salts are compounds of the Formula (I) or (II): wherein R1-R4, R1′-R3′, R8-R11, X, X′, X″, Y, Y′ and Y″ are as defined in the disclosure.
US08632913B2 Secondary battery
A secondary battery includes a can having an open end and housing an electrode assembly; a cap assembly sealing the open end of the can; and an insulating case located between the electrode assembly and the cap assembly, the insulating case comprising folding protrusions protruding from a peripheral surface of the insulating case and oriented such that a first side of the folding protrusion contacts the insulating case and a second side of the folding protrusion contacts the can.
US08632910B2 Protection circuit board, secondary battery and battery pack
A protection circuit board, a secondary battery with the protection circuit board, and a battery pack comprising the secondary battery.A PTC device which is a secondary protection device is provided on the protection circuit board, and is installed in electrical connection with an electrode terminal of a bare cell of the secondary battery. According to a structural configuration where the PTC device is electrically connected to the bare cell while being installed on the protection circuit board, the PTC device sensitively responds to temperature changes of the bare cell to thereby cut off a flow of electric current. Due to such a structural configuration of the PTC device, formation of an electrode lead is excluded for electrical connection with the bare cell on the protection circuit board. Consequently, a pattern-forming area which is designed on the protection circuit board increases.
US08632908B2 Packing case comprising layers having different colors, secondary battery using the same, and method of manufacturing the secondary battery
A packing case for a battery including an inside layer, an outside layer, and a metal layer formed between the inside and outside layers, wherein the outside layer comprises at least one sub-layer having a color different than a color of the metal layer; and a secondary battery including the packing case; and a method of manufacturing the secondary battery.
US08632903B2 Redox flow battery and method of operating the same
A redox flow battery in which a positive electrode electrolyte stored in a positive electrode tank and a negative electrode electrolyte stored in a negative electrode tank are supplied to a battery element to charge and discharge the battery is provided, the positive electrode electrolyte in the redox flow battery containing a Mn ion as a positive electrode active material, the negative electrode electrolyte containing at least one of a Ti ion, a V ion, and a Cr ion as a negative electrode active material, in which the redox flow battery includes a negative-electrode-side introduction duct in communication with inside of the negative electrode tank from outside thereof, for introducing oxidizing gas into the negative electrode tank, and a supply mechanism for supplying the oxidizing gas into the negative electrode tank via the negative-electrode-side introduction duct.
US08632898B2 Battery system including batteries that have a plurality of positive terminals and a plurality of negative terminals
A lithium battery for use in a vehicle includes a container, a plurality of positive terminals extending from a first end of the lithium battery, and a plurality of negative terminals extending from a second end of the lithium battery. The plurality of positive terminals are provided in a first configuration and the plurality of negative terminals are provided in a second configuration, the first configuration differing from the second configuration. A battery system for use in a vehicle may include a plurality of electrically connected lithium cells or batteries.
US08632890B2 Nickel aluminide coating systems and coated articles
A method for forming a nickel aluminide based coating on a metallic substrate includes providing a first source for providing a significant portion of the aluminum content for a coating precursor and a separate nickel alloy source for providing substantially all the nickel and additional alloying elements for the coating precursor. Cathodic arc (ion plasma) deposition techniques may be utilized to provide the coating precursor on a metallic substrate. The coating precursor may be provided in discrete layers, or from a co-deposition process. Subsequent processing or heat treatment forms the nickel aluminide based coating from the coating precursor.
US08632885B2 Bundle of long thin carbon structures, manufacturing method thereof, and electronic device
In the bundle of long thin carbon structures of the present invention, end parts of the bundle are interconnected in a carbon network. The interconnected end parts form a flat surface. By this, an electrical connection structure with low resistance and/or a thermal connection structure with high thermal conductivity are obtained. The bundle of long thin carbon structures can be used suitably as a via, heat removal bump or other electronic element.
US08632884B2 Nanocomposites
The invention describes a nanocomposite particle comprising a nanoparticle having a surface comprising a silver salt, and at least one region of metallic gold on said surface. The invention also provides a nanocomposite material comprising said particles and processes for making the nanocomposite material, either by allowing gold in nanoparticles having a silver salt on the surface thereof to at least partially diffuse through the silver salt so as to form at least one region of metallic gold on said surface, or else by depositing metallic gold on the surfaces of nanoparticles having the silver salt on the surface thereof.
US08632873B2 Aligned nanoarray and method for fabricating the same
An elongated nanostructure is formed on a planar surface of a substrate such that the nanostructure is oriented generally perpendicularly to the surface. The nanostructure is then felled onto the surface such that it is oriented generally parallel to the surface.
US08632869B2 Metal alloys for the reflective or the semi-reflective layer of an optical storage medium
A silver-based magnesium alloy thin film is provided for the semi-reflective coating layer of optical discs. This alloy has moderate to high reflectivity and reasonable corrosion resistance in the ambient environment.
US08632863B2 Polymer film, optically-compensatory film, process for producing the same, polarizing plate and liquid-crystal display device
A polymer film that has: a ratio R (VT/VM) of a sound velocity in a transverse direction VT to a sound velocity in a machine direction VM of from 1.05 to 1.50; and an in-plane retardation Re(λ) and a thickness-direction retardation Rth(λ) satisfying formula (I): (I) 0≦Re(630)≦10, and |Rth(630)|≦25, wherein Re(λ) represents an in-plane retardation at a wavelength of λ (nm); and Rth(λ) represents a thickness-direction retardation at a wavelength of λ (nm).
US08632862B2 Vertical alignment layer and liquid crystal display including the same
A liquid crystal display includes: a first substrate and a second substrate facing each other; a pair of field generating electrodes disposed on the first substrate; a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate and including liquid crystal molecules having positive dielectric anisotropy; and at least one alignment layer disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate, wherein the alignment layer includes a main chain and at least one side chain connected to the main chain, and the side chain includes a vertical functional group or a polar group.
US08632861B2 Liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display device
Providing a liquid crystal composition satisfies at least one of characteristics like high maximum temperature of a nematic phase, low minimum temperature of the nematic phase, small viscosity, suitable optical anisotropy, large negative dielectric anisotropy, large specific resistance, high stability to ultraviolet light and high stability to heat or has a suitable balance regarding at least two of the characteristics. Providing an AM device has a short response time, a large voltage holding ratio, a large contrast ratio, a long service life and so forth. The liquid crystal composition has a negative dielectric anisotropy and contains a specific compound having large negative dielectric anisotropy as a first component, a specific two-ring compound having low minimum temperature and negative dielectric anisotropy as a second component and a specific two-ring compound having low viscosity as a third component. The liquid crystal display device contains the composition.
US08632845B2 Method of drying bioabsorbable coating over stents
Various embodiments of methods for coating stents are described herein. Applying a composition including polymer component and solvent to a stent substrate followed by exposing the polymer component to a temperature equal to or greater than a Tg of the polymer component is disclosed. Repeating the applying and exposing one or more times to form a coating with the result that the solvent content of the coating after the final exposing step is at a level suitable for a finished stent is further disclosed.
US08632844B2 Method for the manufacture of nerve regeneration-inducing tube
A method for manufacturing a nerve regeneration-inducing tube with excellent pressure resistance, shape recovery property, anti-kink property, film exfoliation resistance, resistance to invasion of outer tissues, and leakage resistance. The tubular body is formed by weaving together fibers made up of biodegradable polymer. The outer surface of the tubular body is coated multiple times with a collagen solution. The lumen of the tubular body is filled with collagen. Viscosity of the collagen solution that is first applied to the outer surface of the tubular body is between 2 to 800 cps. Viscosity of the collagen solution that is subsequently applied is higher than viscosity of the first applied collagen solution.
US08632841B2 Systems and methods for rotating and coating an implantable device
A method for applying a coating to an implantable device is disclosed. The method includes positioning an implantable device relative to an ultrasonic material delivery apparatus. The implantable device is rotated at a relative speed. The relative speed may be more than 120 revolutions per minute. An application material is applied to the implantable device using the ultrasonic material delivery apparatus. The relative speed may be sufficient to reduce the size of at least a portion of droplets of the application material. A system for rotating an implantable device is disclosed. The system includes an implantable device and a rotation system configured to rotate the implantable device. A longitudinal axis of the implantable device and a longitudinal axis of a rotation member of the rotation system may be offset a desired dimension. An inside diameter of the implantable device may be larger than an outside diameter of a rotation member.
US08632836B2 Nanosurface
The invention relates to a method for modification of a biocompatible component comprising the steps of a) providing a biocompatible component at least partly covered by metallic oxide; and b) treating at least a part of said component, which part is covered by said metallic oxide, with an aqueous composition comprising oxalic acid; whereby a modified metallic oxide is obtained. The invention also relates to a biocompatible component comprising a substrate having a surface comprising a) a microstructure comprising pits separated by plateus and/or ridges; and b) a primary nanostructure being superimposed on said microstructure, said primary nanostructure comprising depressions arranged in a wave-like formation.
US08632832B2 Direct dissolution
The present disclosure describes a method for the continuous dissolution of e.g. crystalline astaxanthin or canthaxanthin suspension in oil, by applying heat for a predetermined period using an in-line or optionally batch wise-process, followed by cooling the heated solution with an oil phase or heat exchanger. The resulting oil solution may be used as such or added directly to feed components which are turned into feed compositions by extrusion, compaction or granulation. Alternatively the oil solution is spray coated or directly loaded to extruded or compacted pellets and granulates. The disclosure avoids using formulated carotenoids prepared by known multi-step production methods requiring solvents, solvent removal, cooling and emulsification with an aqueous phase or precipitation and recovery steps. Thus the present invention is a more economical, efficient and environmentally friendly method to add nutrients and colorants to feed compositions instead of using colloid dispersed particulate hydrocolloid compositions.
US08632826B2 Cosmetic wrinkle treatment method based on a zanthoxylum bungeanum extract
The present invention relates to a cosmetic wrinkle treatment method which comprises the topical application of a Zanthoxylum bungeanum extract obtainable by extraction with carbon dioxide under hypercritical conditions. The present invention also relates to the use of such Zanthoxylum bungeanum extract for the preparation of topical compositions for the cosmetic treatment of skin wrinkles.
US08632818B2 Microcrystalline cellulose and calcium phosphate compositions useful as pharmaceutical excipients
Compositions containing calcium phosphate and microcrystalline cellulose are useful as excipients in the preparation of solid dosage forms containing active pharmaceutical ingredients, particularly those prepared by processes involving multiple compaction steps. The recompactibility performance of such compositions is improved through the use of calcium phosphate having a relatively small particle size, e.g., a median particle size of not more than about 20 microns or not more than about 10 microns.
US08632816B2 Compositions comprising solid particles entrapped in collapsed polymeric microspheres, and methods of making the same
The present invention relates to topical compositions containing solid particles that are stabilized via entrapment by microspheres and methods for making the same. Each of the microspheres contains a collapsed polymeric shell that has entrapped therein one or more solid particles. The solid particles are preferably formed of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide or both, which can readily be used either alone or in combination with other sunscreen agents to form sunscreen compositions of broader UV protection spectrum and enhanced photostability.
US08632796B2 Calcium phosphate/sulfate-based bone implant composition
A bone implant composition, the composition comprising calcium sulphate and slowly soluble source of calcium, orthophosphate and hydroxyl ions. The composition may be provided in powder or granulated form.
US08632788B2 Parenteral formulation for epothilone analogs
A process for formulating certain epothilone analogs for parenteral administration is disclosed wherein the analog is dissolved in a mixture of at least 50% by volume tertiary-butanol in water, the mixture is lyophilized, the resulting lyophilized product is packaged in one vial with a sufficient amount of solvent comprising anhydrous ethanol and a suitable nonionic surfactant in a second vial. All steps are carried out with protection from light. In use, the contents of the second or diluent vial are added to the lyophilized product and mixed to constitute the epothilone analog and the resulting solution is diluted with a suitable diluent to produce a solution for intravenous injection containing the epothilone analog in a concentration of from about 0.1 mg/mL to about 0.9 mg/mL. A preferred surfactant is polyethoxylated castor oil and a preferred diluent is Lactated Ringer's Injection.
US08632785B2 Clostridial toxin pharmaceutical composition containing a gelatin fragment
A botulinum toxin pharmaceutical formulation comprising a botulinum toxin and a low molecular weight recombinant or native gelatin fragment suitable for administration to a human patient, and methods for treating patients with various diseases and afflictions using the formulation.
US08632783B2 Compositions for immunising against Staphylococcus aureus
Staphylococcus aureus Hla polypeptides having various deletions, insertions, and/or mutations which are useful for immunization are provided herein. Also provided herein are Hla heptamers which are non-haemolytic. Additionally, an effective Staphylococcus aureus vaccine may require several antigenic components, and so various combinations of S. aureus antigens, including Hla polypeptides having deletions, insertions, and/or mutations, are identified for use in immunization. These polypeptides may optionally be used in combination with S. aureus saccharides.
US08632776B2 Protofibril-binding antibodies and their use in therapeutic and diagnostic methods for Parkinson's disease, dementia with lewy bodies and other α-synucleinopathies
Antibodies and fragments thereof have high affinity for human α-synuclein protofibrils and low binding of α-synuclein monomers, wherein the antibodies or fragments have specified Complementarity Determining Region (CDR) sequences. Compositions comprise such an antibody or fragment and methods of detecting α-synuclein protofibrils use such an antibody or fragment. In further embodiments, methods of preventing, delaying onset of or treating a neurodegenerative disorder with α-synuclein pathology comprise administering such an antibody or fragment, and such an antibody or fragment is used in the manufacture of a pharmaceutical composition for treatment of a neurodegenerative disorder with α-synuclein pathology. Such an antibody or fragment is used in the diagnosis or monitoring of the development of a neurodegenerative disorder with α-synuclein pathology, and in methods for reducing or inhibiting α-synuclein aggregation by administration of such an antibody or fragment.
US08632773B2 Antibody composition with altered Fab sialylation
The present invention relates to a population of antibodies enriched from an antibody preparation, wherein the enriched population of antibodies has an altered amount of sialylation in the Fab region of the antibodies as compared to the antibody preparation prior to enrichment. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method of enriching a population of antibodies from an antibody preparation, wherein the enriched population of antibodies has an altered amount of sialylation in the Fab region of the antibodies as compared to the antibody preparation prior to enrichment. The present invention also relates to the population of antibodies of the invention for use in medicine, a pharmaceutical composition comprising the populations of antibodies of the invention and the use of the population of antibodies of the invention in the prevention and/or treatment of atherosclerosis, cancer and infections such as bacterial, viral or fungal infections.
US08632763B2 Use of a copolymer in the form of a solubiliser for a poorly water-soluble compound
The use of copolymers obtained by free-radical polymerization of a mixture of i) 30 to 80% by weight of N-vinyllactam, ii) 10 to 50% by weight of vinyl acetate, and iii) 10 to 50% by weight of a polyether, with the proviso that the total of components i), ii) and iii) equals 100% by weight, as solubilizers for slightly water-soluble substances.
US08632753B2 Multivalent constructs for therapeutic and diagnostic applications
The invention provides compositions and methods for therapeutic and diagnostic applications.
US08632752B2 In vivo copper-free click chemistry for delivery of therapeutic and/or diagnostic agents
The present application discloses compositions and methods of synthesis and use involving click chemistry reactions for in vivo or in vitro formation of therapeutic and/or diagnostic complexes. Preferably, the diagnostic complex is of use for 18F imaging, while the therapeutic complex is of use for targeted delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs or toxins. More preferably, a chelating moiety or targetable construct may be conjugated to a targeting molecule, such as an antibody or antibody fragment, using a click chemistry reaction involving cyclooctyne, nitron or azide reactive moieties. In most preferred embodiments, the click chemistry reaction occurs in vivo. In vivo click chemistry is not limited to 18F labeling but can be used for delivering a variety of therapeutic and/or diagnostic agents.
US08632751B2 Scanning suspension comprising a particle with a diameter of at least 1 micrometer
The invention provides a scanning suspension comprising a particle which is capable of at least in part disturbing a magnetic field, wherein said particle comprises a diameter of at least 1 μm, and use thereof for obtaining a scanning image. Preferably, said particle comprises holmium and a composition capable of essentially maintaining its structure during irradiation. A particle of the invention is suitable for preparing a kit of parts, comprising a diagnostic and a therapeutic composition which both comprise particles of the invention with essentially the same chemical structure, wherein said therapeutic composition is more radioactive than said diagnostic composition. Said kit of parts is especially suitable for treatment of a tumor. First, the distribution of a particle of the invention within an individual can be determined with a scanning image obtained with said scanning composition. Subsequently, a radioactive therapeutic composition can be administered, wherein a suitable dose of said therapeutic composition is derived from said scanning image.
US08632746B1 Process for the manufacturing of ferric sulfate from column oxidation of ferrous sulfate
A process for producing ferric sulfate has the steps of reacting iron and water and sulfuric acid within a digester so as to produce a blend of ferric sulfate and ferrous sulfate, forming a column having an interior volume and an upper end in which the column has inert random packing material therein, passing the blend of the ferric sulfate and ferrous sulfate to the upper end of the column, introducing oxygen into the column at the upper end of the column, intimately mixing the oxygen with the blend of ferric sulfate and ferrous sulfate by gravity flowing the oxygen and the blend of ferric sulfate and ferrous sulfate downwardly through said random packing material in said column, and discharging the ferric sulfate from the interior volume of the column.
US08632735B2 System and method for titrating liquids
A system for titrating liquids, with a syringe or tip, comprising a holding device and at least one tag and a metering equipment, comprising an additional holding device for holding the syringe or tip on the holding device, a reading device for reading the tag of the syringe or tip held by the additional holding device, a driving device having a motor, which is detachably coupled with a plunger of the syringe when the same is held by the additional holding device, or which is coupled with a plunger which is arranged in a cylinder which is coupled with the tip via a fluid conduit, when the same is held by the additional holding device, an operating device for operating the metering equipment and a control device, connected with the operating device, the reading device and the driving device, which controls the movement of the plunger depending of the tag of the inserted syringe or tip.
US08632724B2 Method and apparatus for forming titanium-aluminium based alloys
Disclosed herein are reactors and methods for forming alloys based on titanium-aluminium or alloys based on titanium-aluminium inter-metallic compounds. The reactor comprises a first section having an inlet through which precursor material comprising titanium subchlorides and aluminium can be introduced. The first section is heatable to a first temperature at which reactions between the titanium subchlorides and aluminium can occur, and further comprises a gas outlet via which any gaseous by-product formed can be removed. The reactor also comprises a second section which can be heated to a second temperature at which reactions of material transferred from the first section can occur to form the titanium-aluminium based alloy, a gas driver adapted in use to cause any gaseous by-product formed in the reactions in the second section to move in a direction towards the first section, and an intermediate section between the first and second sections. The intermediate section can be heated to an intermediate temperature at which at least a portion of material transferred from the first section can accrete and form a cake on a surface of the intermediate section and at which gaseous by-product formed in the reactions in the second section can be received and condensed. The reactor also comprises a removing apparatus for removing caked material from the surface of the intermediate section and transferring it to the second section.
US08632722B2 Bottle with extended neck finish and method of making same
A blow molded synthetic resin bottle has a body and an elongated neck with the body providing a shoulder extending about the base of the neck. The neck has a first collar extending thereabout spaced adjacent the shoulder and at least one additional collar extending thereabout adjacent the upper end of the neck. The resin in the neck is substantially unoriented. To produce the bottle, a synthetic resin preform is injection molded with a generally tubular body and the elongated neck. This preform is placed in a blow mold cavity having a body receiving portion and a neck receiving portion that has a recess extending thereabout seating the first collar therein. The additional collar is disposed outwardly of the mold cavity and is disposed on the upper surface of the mold.
US08632716B2 Method of manufacturing metallic decorative member
There is provided a method for manufacturing a metallic decorative member without a weld line at low cost including: starting injections of molten molding material into a cavity formed by a set of dies from a plurality of gates provided at the cavity; and stopping respectively the injections of the molten molding material from the plurality of gates at different times so as to make dynamic pressure of the molten molding material injected from one gate smaller than dynamic pressure of the molten molding material injected from the other gate at a position on which heads of flows of the molten molding material injected from the one and the other gates contact each other.
US08632715B2 Contoured flat mold
Particular embodiments of the present invention include a contoured tire tread, and a mold and method for forming the contoured tread. In a particular embodiment, a mold is provided for forming a contoured tread, the mold including a first mold member and a second mold member. The first and second mold members are reversibly displaceable from each other from a first, closed position in which the first and second members substantially enclose a mold cavity, to a second open position in which the first and second members are displaced from each other. The first mold member contains a mold cavity adapted to contain a polymeric material and having inner wall members and sipe-forming members. The first mold member having a contoured mold cavity bottom surface, and the second mold member having a contoured molding surface.
US08632714B2 Mold structures, and method of transfer of fine structures
A mold and a pattern transfer method using the same for a nanoprinting technology. The mold can be released from a substrate accurately and easily. The mold, which is used for forming a fine pattern on a substrate using a press machine, comprises a release mechanism.
US08632700B2 Methods and compositions for ink jet deposition of conductive features
Disclosed is an electrically conductive feature on a substrate, and methods and compositions for forming the same, wherein the electrically conductive feature includes metallic anisotropic nanostructures and is formed by injetting onto the substrate a coating solution containing the conductive anisotropic nanostructures.
US08632693B2 Wetting agent for semiconductors, and polishing composition and polishing method employing it
To provide a wetting agent for semiconductors and a polishing composition whereby the wettability of a semiconductor substrate surface can be improved, and microdefects such as particle attachments can be remarkably reduced.A wetting agent for semiconductors, comprising a water soluble polymer compound having a low viscosity and water, and a polishing composition. A 0.3 wt % aqueous solution of the water soluble polymer compound has a viscosity of less than 10 mPa·s at 25° C.
US08632688B2 Plasma processing apparatus and plasma processing method
In a plasma processing apparatus in which a wafer is processed while supplying radio frequency power to electrodes disposed in a sample stage in a processing chamber within a reactor via a matching box, by matching a specific value of power at transition points of data values of at least two kinds among characteristic data including light emission intensity of the plasma, magnitude of its time variation, a matching position of the matching box, and a change of a value of a voltage of the radio frequency power supplied to the electrodes detected by varying the power to a plurality of values during the processing with a value detected by using characteristic data which is detected during the processing executed on a wafer of the same kind in a different reactor, the differences of the states inside the processing chamber or plasma among a plurality of semiconductor processing apparatuses or reactors are reduced.
US08632686B2 Apparatus and method for removing water content from organic solvents
An apparatus and method to remove water content in organic solvents characterized in that it comprises treatment tank 10 to which organic solvent is introduced, solvent inlet section 1 that introduces the organic solvent, solvent outlet section 2 from which the treated organic solvent is discharged, inert gas inlet section 3 from which inert gas is introduced, treatment gas outlet section 4 from which gas is discharged, cooling treatment tank 20 in which the treatment gas is cooled and the gas and liquid are separated, treatment gas inlet section 5 from which the treatment gas is introduced, recovered liquid outlet section 6 from which the separated liquid organic solvent is discharged, and waste gas outlet section 7 from which the separated gas is discharged, and that the water content in the organic solvent is removed by having the inert gas flow over the entire liquid surface of the organic solvent inside treatment tank 10.
US08632679B2 Chromatography column and method of maintenance
A chromatography column and method of maintenance is described which does not require the use of a hoist or crane for disassembly. The method provides improved operator safety by reducing the need for the operator to work below a suspended or supported load within the column. Furthermore, the removal or replacement of column components is facilitated by providing access to the interior of the column and by the provision of a handling device.
US08632677B2 Aquarium bottom cleaner system
An aquarium cleaner system for cleaning the bottom surface of an aquarium. The system has a suction means with a suction body. The suction body has an open enlarged lower end, an open upper end and a propeller system. There is also a filter with an opening fluidly connected to the open upper end of the suction body, an impurities entrapment surface and a fluid return surface. There is further provided a controller for turning on or off the suction means according to a preprogrammed schedule and a random position effecter, such that when a new cleaning position is desired, the suction means is terminated for a first predetermined duration so that the suction body causes the aquarium bottom cleaner to rise from the current cleaning position before turning on the suction means for a second predetermined duration.
US08632674B2 Heavy metal passivator/trap for FCC processes
The present invention provides a catalyst mixture comprising FCC catalysts and a metal passivator/trap and use thereof in trapping metal contaminants during the catalytic cracking of hydrocarbon feedstocks.
US08632672B2 Stainless steel anodes for alkaline water electrolysis and methods of making
The corrosion resistance of stainless steel anodes for use in alkaline water electrolysis was increased by immersion of the stainless steel anode into a caustic solution prior to electrolysis. Also disclosed herein are electrolyzers employing the so-treated stainless steel anodes. The pre-treatment process provides a stainless steel anode that has a higher corrosion resistance than an untreated stainless steel anode of the same composition.
US08632670B2 Controlled flow of a thin liquid film by electrowetting
Apparatus and methods for controllably wetting a microstructured surface.
US08632667B2 Deterioration signal generation device for oxygen sensor
A deterioration signal generation device for an oxygen sensor having a power supply different than a power supply connected to an external device, including a connection unit for electrically connecting the ground lines of the respective power supplies; a first acquisition unit for electrically connecting to a first output line at a reference potential side and to a second output line at a sensor potential side of the oxygen sensor, to obtain first and second potentials, respectively; an operation unit that calculates a first differential value between the first and second potentials; a processing unit that performs an operation on the first differential value; a second acquisition unit that acquires a third potential of a first input line at a reference potential side of the external device; and an output unit that generates the deterioration signal by superposing the second differential value on the third potential.
US08632647B2 Method of controlling tread shrinkage during curing
In particular embodiments, a method of forming a retreaded tire includes the steps of: applying a tread to a tread-engaging portion of a tire carcass, the tread having an initial width and a layer of cushion gum interposed between the tread and tire carcass; placing a curing membrane about the tread to form a tire curing assembly having a compartment between the membrane and tread; placing the tire curing assembly in a vessel chamber; pressurizing the chamber to a predetermined pressure; heating the chamber to a predetermined temperature; pressurizing the compartment to a pressure greater than 14.7 psia and less than the chamber pressure to provide a pressure differential, the step initializing after the step of pressurizing the chamber initializes and whereby a final tread width is provided that is equal to 98.0% or more of the initial tread width when the initial tread width is approximately 290-500 mm.
US08632640B2 Dishwasher
The present invention relates to a dish-washer (1) having a single push-button (3) which is utilized by the user to select all of the programs.
US08632633B2 In-situ growth of engineered defects in graphene by epitaxial reproduction
Engineered defects are reproduced in-situ with graphene via a combination of surface manipulation and epitaxial reproduction. A substrate surface that is lattice-matched to graphene is manipulated to create one or more non-planar features in the hexagonal crystal lattice. These non-planar features strain and asymmetrically distort the hexagonal crystal lattice of epitaxially deposited graphene to reproduce “in-situ” engineered defects with the graphene. These defects may be defects in the classic sense such as Stone-Wales defect pairs or blisters, ridges, ribbons and metacrystals. Nano or micron-scale structures such as planar waveguides, resonant cavities or electronic devices may be constructed from linear or closed arrays of these defects. Substrate manipulation and epitaxial reproduction allows for precise control of the number, density, arrangement and type of defects. The graphene may be removed and template reused to replicate the graphene and engineered defects. As such, expensive and time-consuming techniques can be justified to create the template. The capability to control the defect pattern in graphene enables the creation of structured devices such as waveguides, resonant cavities and electron devices in graphene.
US08632631B2 High SRI systems for cementitious applications
High SRI cementitious systems comprising integral concrete coloring admixtures, toppings, dry-shake hardeners, and other cementitious systems are provided. The high-SRI cementitious systems comprise one or more IR reflective pigments and other components to make-up the cementitious system, depending on the application. The high-SRI cementitious systems of the invention may be in the form of mixtures which increase the total solar reflectivity (TSR or albedo) and the Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) of concrete. The high-SRI cementitious systems may be toppings mixed with water for application to existing concrete surfaces, dry-shake hardeners for application to freshly-placed plastic concrete, or the IR reflective pigments may be mixed into integrally colored concrete in various forms, such as conventional cast-in-place concrete, lightweight concrete, pervious concrete and concrete building panels, pavers or masonry units.
US08632615B2 Method and system for producing synthetic gas from biomass by high temperature gasification
The invention relates to a method and a system for producing synthetic gas from biomass by high temperature gasification, including: feeding raw material, carbonizing, pulverizing the charcoal, and transporting charcoal powder to the gasification furnace for gasification. Prior to pulverizing, the charcoal is reduced to a normal pressure by a decompression feeding system of charcoal, pulverized into powders, and transported to a supercharging feeding system of charcoal powder by normal pressure transport gas. The pressurized charcoal powder is transported to gasifier. The high-temperature charcoal at an outlet of carbonization furnace is cooled to 60-200° C. by a cooler, and transported into the decompression feeding system to be depressurized. The charcoal powder with pressurized is ejected to gasifier by an ejector, pyrolysis gas produced from carbonization furnace is used as carrier gas, and the ratio of solid to gas in the transportation pipe for charcoal powder is controlled at between 0.03 and 0.45 m3/m3 by adjusting the amount of pyrolysis gas for transportation. The temperature of the carbonization furnace is controlled at between 400° C. and 600° C. by adjusting the amount of oxygen.
US08632614B2 Autothermal method for the continuous gasification of carbon-rich substances
The invention relates to an autothermic method for the continuous gasification of substances (14) rich in carbon in a vertical processing chamber (100) having a calcination zone (C) and an oxidation zone (D), in which the calcinated substances rich in carbon oxidize with gas containing oxygen, wherein the gaseous reaction products are withdrawn at the top (G) of the vertical processing chamber (100). The vertical processing chamber is configured in the shape of a vertical shaft furnace (100), which is continuously flowed through from the top to the bottom by a bulk product (13) conducted in a cycle, which itself is not oxidized, wherein the substances (14) rich in carbon are added to the bulk product (13) before entering (3) the furnace, and the gas containing the oxygen is introduced in and/or beneath the oxidation zone (D), whereby the rising gas flow is facilitated. An after-cooling zone (F), in which the bulk product is cooled to below 100° C., is configured by introducing at least part of the gas containing the oxygen at the lower end (4) of the vertical processing chamber (100).
US08632598B2 Convertible glenoid implant
A shoulder implant assembly constructed in accordance to one example of the present disclosure includes a frame member, a cup, and a glenosphere. The frame member can have a central hub and a first arm extending therefrom. The frame member can be configured to selectively and alternatively couple with first shoulder implant components in a traditional shoulder configuration and with second shoulder implant components in a reverse shoulder configuration. The cup can have a concave surface that is configured to articulate with a humeral head component. The cup can be selectively coupled to the frame member in the traditional shoulder configuration. The glenosphere can have an outer articulating surface that is configured to articulate with a second cup. The glenosphere can be selectively coupled to the frame member in the reverse shoulder configuration.
US08632594B2 Intervertebral device and method of use
An intervertebral disc replacement device is disclosed and includes a first implantable member having a first anchor plate and a concave body detachably coupled to the first anchor plate, and a second implantable member having a second anchor plate and a convex body detachably coupled to the second anchor plate, the convex body configured to engage the concave body in movable relation thereto.
US08632592B2 Expandable vertebral body replacement device and method
Vertebral body replacement apparatuses, systems, and methods are provided. In various examples, an implantable device is configured to be inserted between a first vertebral body and a second vertebral body. The implantable device includes a first endplate configured to contact the first vertebral body. A second endplate is configured to contact the second vertebral body. An expansion bladder is disposed between and coupled to the first endplate and the second endplate. The expansion bladder includes a first chamber and a second chamber. The first chamber and the second chamber are sealed from fluid communication with one another. An injection port is disposed through one of the first endplate or second endplate. The injection port includes a first channel in fluid communication with the first chamber and a second channel in fluid communication with the second chamber.
US08632589B2 IOL insertion system with semi-automatic trailing haptic configuration management
A system and method for performing an ocular surgical procedure is provided. The system is configured to provide an IOL having a trailing haptic to an eye and includes a pair of interlockable telescoping elements, having generally an inner and outer component configured to hold the IOL and be brought together into a locking position, the locking position maintaining the trailing haptic in an advantageously altered orientation. The system also includes a plunger configured to receive force and transmit the force to the IOL and the trailing haptic in the advantageously altered orientation.
US08632585B2 Apparatus for treating a heart valve, in particular a mitral valve
An apparatus for treating a heart valve apparatus includes at least two anchoring elements designed to be anchored at the annulus and/or heart wall of the valve to be treated. Each anchoring element has a support surface. At least one linking element includes a central branch and two curved side branches, one of which is designed to be engaged on the support surface of an anchoring element, while the other is designed to be engaged on the support surface of another anchoring element, the linking element then being designed to be pivoted to a position such that the anchoring elements interconnect and in which the ends of the central branch are located in the vicinity of the support surfaces.
US08632572B2 Method and associated instrumentation for installation of spinal dynamic stabilization system
In one embodiment, a spinal stabilization apparatus includes a vertebral anchor having a head portion and a bone attachment portion. An elongate, flexible guide is removably coupled to the head portion of the vertebral anchor and has a channel extending longitudinally thereof and communicating with a slot in the head portion of the anchor. An elongate cord may be received within the channel to facilitate inserting and securing a spacer between pairs of anchors installed into adjacent vertebrae of a person's spine.
US08632561B2 Surgical cutting device and method for performing surgery
A surgical cutting device and method for performing surgery using such is provided. The surgical device includes a handpiece or other, a stationary outer cannula connected to the base, a rotatable inner cannula connected to the base, an inner elongated shaft member connected to a distal interior surface of the lumen of the outer cannula, and a tissue cutting opening. The inner cannula includes a plurality of blades that interact with a plurality of ridges on the inner elongated shaft upon rotation of the inner cannula facilitating maceration of tissue within the lumen to prevent clogging of the device.
US08632548B2 Intracorporeal elongation device with a permanent magnet
A first part (1) comprises means (11) for connection to the body and receives in a sliding manner a second part (2) that comprises means (21) for connection to the body. A permanent magnet (3) is mounted in rotation relative to the first part (1). Step-down gears (51, 52) transform its movements into a rotation, alternately in one direction and in the other, of an input shaft (41) with a gear reduction ratio. A free wheel (43) drives an output shaft (42) when the input shaft (41) turns in one direction. The output shaft (42) is blocked in the other direction by retaining means (44). Transmission means (61, 62) transform the rotation of the output shaft (42) into a displacement of the second part (2) relative to the first part (1). The invention permits the production of bone prostheses allowing growth, of intramedullary nails allowing elongation or movement of bone, of spinal distraction or compression rods, or of bone distractors or intercostal distractors, and also of implantable remote-controlled pumps.
US08632545B2 Bone plates and bone plate assemblies
The invention relates to bone plate assembly having bone plate and bone screws for compressing and locking of bone plates for stabilizing fractured fragments of a bone.
US08632541B2 Self-centring elbow fixation device without guide wire
A first arched slot or slit connection element (15) and a second linear slot or slit connection element (19, 21) are provided for cursors (13, 30) which can slide and be locked along said slots or slits; the connection element engaged with the humeral stem is self-centring and is provided with a hinge (32, 34) defining the articulation axis of the elbow, when—after repeated flexion-extension—said cursor is no longer subject to significant movements.
US08632540B2 Surgical instrument for tissue removal
An electrosurgical instrument for removal of tissue from a patient. The electrosurgical instrument includes a handle portion having a pair of end effectors configured to remove tissue, connected to and supported by the handle portion for relative movement generally toward one another. One of the end effectors includes a conductive cutting portion that is configured to receive electrical energy from an electrical energy source. The other of the end effectors includes an opposing portion. The opposing portion is brought into a position generally opposing the conductive cutting portion during relative movement of the end effectors toward one another. When electrical energy is conducted through the conductive cutting portion, removal and cauterization of the tissue from the patient is facilitated.
US08632536B2 Electrosurgical pencil including improved controls
The present disclosure relates to electrosurgical devices having a plurality of hand-accessible variable controls. An electrosurgical device configured for connection to a source of electrosurgical energy is provided and includes a housing; an electrical circuit supported within the housing, the electrical circuit being connectable to the source of electrosurgical energy; and a controller slidably supported on the housing, wherein the controller is configured to exert a force on the electrical circuit to affect a change in the electrical circuit and to exert a force on a surface of the housing to provide a tactile feedback to a user of the electrosurgical device as the controller is moved relative to the housing.
US08632532B2 Catheter with tissue protecting assembly
A medical probe includes an elongate member having a proximal end and a distal end, an ablative element mounted to the distal end of the elongate member, and a cage assembly mounted to the distal end of the elongate member, the cage assembly at least partially covers the ablative element. A method of treating tissue in a body includes inserting an ablative element in the body, placing the ablative element adjacent the tissue, and maintaining a distance between the ablative element and the tissue using a protective catheter element that circumscribes at least a portion of the ablative element.
US08632531B2 Indirect fluid flow measurement
A system is for thermal ablation and includes (a) a heating element heating an ablation fluid flowing through an ablation device and to a target region of a body and (b) a computing arrangement controlling power supplied to the heating element supplying power to heat the ablation fluid to a desired temperature. The computing arrangement reduces the supplied power when a detected ablation fluid temperature exceeds a desired temperature and increases the supplied power when the detected ablation fluid temperature is below the desired temperature. The computing arrangement monitors a percentage of heat supplied by the heating arrangement to heat the fluid to the desired temperature as a function of a maximum amount of heat which the heating element is capable of supplying.
US08632530B2 Systems and methods for prostate treatment
A vapor delivery needle is provided that may include any of a number of features. One feature of the energy delivery probe is that it can apply condensable vapor energy to tissue, such as a prostrate, to shrink, damage, denaturate the prostate. In some embodiments, the needle can ablate a continuous lobe region in the prostate parallel to the urethral wall. Another feature of the vapor delivery needle is that it can introduce a cooling fluid into the urethra during treatment. Methods associated with use of the energy delivery probe are also covered.
US08632520B2 Vein closure and injection kits and methods
Kits, apparatus, devices and methods for treating varicose veins caused by an incompetent venous junction (e.g., the saphenofemoral and/or saphenopopliteal junctions) are disclosed. The kits may include a sheath, a vein closure device, and an injection device. Alternatively, a vein closure device may include an integral injection channel and injection device. Methods may include injecting a vein with a sclerosing agent through a needle that extends in a direction that is not aligned with a longitudinal axis of a sheath or shaft.
US08632510B2 Nanochanneled device and related methods
A capsule configured for in vivo refilling of a thereapeutic agent. In certain embodiments, the capsule may contain methotrexate.
US08632509B2 Injection device with electronic detecting means
An injection device for injecting a dose of drug, e.g. insulin for diabetes treatment, in which energy is stored in a spring member during dose setting. The stored energy is released and used for driving an injection mechanism during injection of a previously set dose. The injection device further comprises means for electronically detecting the amount of a set dose and/or means for electronically detecting the amount of an injected dose. The electronic detecting means allows storage and/or logging of data relating to injections performed using the injection device.
US08632507B2 Auto-injector
An auto-injection device has a housing with a medicament container disposed within; a dose setting mechanism for setting a dose of a medicament; a drive nut and a plunger rod operably connected, with an energy accumulator operably connected to the dose setting mechanism; and an activating mechanism and a positioning mechanism operably connected to the plunger rod for locking the plunger rod from being displaced. The positioning mechanism includes a locking nut arranged to cooperate with fixed, flexible locking features for locking the locking nut from rotation. A resilient member arranged inside the plunger rod is configured to allow the plunger rod to be resiliently and axially displaced when the locking nut is unlocked.
US08632501B2 Device for the rapid injection of local anesthesia through a plurality of needles
This device is a compressible chamber designed to inject a liquid medication through a plurality of needles. It is a self-contained, rapidly deployed device that replaces a classic syringe. It consists of a shallow chamber that is closed on one end and sealed on the other with a sliding elastomeric seal. A rigid ring slides up into the chamber that has multiple small double-ended needles mounted through the periphery of the ring perpendicularly so as to be able to perforate the seal of the chamber with the proximal end and simultaneously penetrate the subcutaneous tissues with the distal end thus allowing medication to flow from the chamber into the tissues when pressure is applied to the top of the chamber. The needles are also imbedded in, or juxtapose to a ring of compressible dye-containing material that serves to conceal the needles and provide demarcation of the area injected.
US08632499B2 Infusion pump assembly
An infusion pump assembly includes a locking tab and a pump barrel inside a pump barrel housing, where the pump barrel accommodates a reservoir assembly. The reservoir assembly includes a reservoir and a plunger rod. The infusion pump assembly also includes a locking disc at a terminus of the pump barrel. The locking disc includes a clearance hole for the plunger rod. The locking disc also includes at least one locking tab notch in close proximity with the locking tab. The locking tab is in moveable engagement with the locking tab notch, and the reservoir moves the locking tab from a locked position to an unlocked position when the plunger rod is inserted through clearance hole. The locking disc rotates upon torque being applied to the reservoir assembly, the locking disc rotating from a non-loaded position to a loaded position with respect to the plunger rod and a drive screw.
US08632491B2 Catheter mounted automatic vessel occlusion and fluid dispersion devices
Catheter or guidewire mounted automatic vessel occlusion and fluid dispersion devices that expand to occlude or partially occlude a vessel when a fluid is flowing in the catheter or guidewire, and that automatically collapse when fluid flow is stopped. Each occlusion device has an elastic skeleton covered with a flexible cover coupled thereto and may have a hole(s) or openings in its distal or proximal end thereof to allow controlled flow through the desired end of the occlusion device. The fluid may be a flush fluid for enabling or improving the performance of imaging devices and image enhancing fluids, of treatment fluids for localized treatment of a vessel or tissues in communication with the vessel and/or of the transmission of energy to the vessel wall and adjacent tissues. Various embodiments are disclosed.
US08632484B1 Brace for arm or elbow region including angularly-displaced muscle/tendon engaging portions
Systems and methods are disclosed for providing supplemental support to the arm and/or elbow region of an individual. In one exemplary implementation, a brace for a user's arm is provided comprising a rigid element including arm-engaging portions and a strap of flexible material configured to encircle the arm. Moreover, the exemplary rigid element and strap may be further characterized in that the strap comprises an elastic nature or portion that provides a force (such as a compressive or constraining force) to the user's arm, the arm-engaging portions include muscle/tendon-engaging regions that each engage the user's arm along a leading face/edge, with various leading faces/edges corresponding to the muscle/tendon-engaging regions being positioned in relationship with each other to apply a desired pressure or force to the user's arm.
US08632483B2 Systems, devices, and methods for mechanically reducing and fixing bone fractures
A frame is sized and configured to support a reduced bone fracture of an individual. A guide assembly on the frame carries a bone fixing device guide that defines a guide path along which a bone fixing device can be advanced into a region of the reduced bone fracture. A linkage system couples the bone fixing device guide to the frame for articulation of the guide path among a plurality of desired orientations with respect to the reduced bone fracture. A guide bushing is included. Which includes packaging that maintains the guide bushing in a sterile condition prior to insertion into the bone fixing device guide.
US08632478B2 Pillow with mechanism for simulated respiration
A pillow with simulated respiration includes a pair of impervious panels that are joined together to form a rectangular shaped enclosed body and a mechanism for inflating/deflating the body periodically to simulate an individual's breathing. The pillow may also include a cushion on top of the body with an electric heating pad on top of the cushion together with a pair of vibrators. The vibrators each have an elongated shape and are constructed and dimensioned to message an individual's neck and upper shoulders when the individual's head is placed on the cushion. The pillow also includes a textile cover with a zipper on one side thereof and a satin pillow case.
US08632471B2 Pulsimeter sensor using hall device
The present invention relates to a noninvasive medical pulsimeter sensor using a hall device. By forming a pulse-sensing part array with a hall device as a magnetic sensor, over the skin-contacting part which consists of a magnetic material, the present invention increases the integrity of sensors, enables to understand the spatial characteristics of the pulse which cannot be determined by the conventional pressure sensors, minimize the time for searching the pulse, and is applicable widely to portable pulsimeters and the likes.
US08632470B2 Assessment of pulmonary vascular resistance via pulmonary artery pressure
Methods and systems for assessing pulmonary or systemic vascular resistance in a patient using pressure measurements are disclosed. An illustrative method of measuring pulmonary vascular resistance includes electrically inducing a retrograde pressure pulse within the heart, sensing at least one arterial pressure parameter in response to the retrograde pressure pulse using a pressure sensor located within a pulmonary artery, and computing a value of the pulmonary vascular resistance using the at least one sensed arterial pressure parameter. Data from multiple pulmonary vascular resistance assessments can be taken over an extended period of time within the patient to aid in detecting an underlying cardiac or pulmonary condition such as cardiogenic pulmonary edema.
US08632469B2 Devices, systems, and methods for mapping organ profiles
Devices, systems, and methods for the localization of body lumen junctions and other intraluminal structure are disclosed. Various embodiments permit clinicians to identify and locate lesions and/or anatomical structures within a lumen and accurately place leads and/or devices within a lumen, through determining the intralumen conductance and/or cross-sectional area at a plurality of locations within the body lumen.
US08632468B2 Method, system and devices for transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) procedures
Systems and methods for assisting/performing image-guided transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) procedures in a portion of an anatomy of a patient include a guide needle portion having a hollow tube with a bend toward its distal tip, and a puncture needle portion that includes at least one position indicating element at its tip. The puncture needle is slidably mounted within the hollow tube of the guide needle such that a distal tip of the puncture needle can be extended from an opening in the distal tip of the guide needle and used to place a shunt between the portal and hepatic veins of a patient. The position indicating element of the puncture needle is used to produce a display of the puncture needle relative to a target vessel, including a projected path of the puncture needle that can be adjusted to accurately locate a shunt.
US08632463B2 Gateway platform for biological monitoring and delivery of therapeutic compounds
The invention relates to methods and devices for remote or distributed continuous monitoring of physiologically relevant states. The invention provides for methods to automatically detect deviations or other states in physiological parameters and automatically alert a measured subject, user or other authorized party. The device provides for a universal platform for sensors, and further provides for the automatic compensation or distribution of devices or bioactive agents at appropriate levels and/or intervals in response to deviations or other states sensed in various physiological parameters.
US08632456B2 Pump with one-touch release
A pump that comprises a fluid reservoir, a pump bulb, a plurality of tubing, and at least one inflatable penile cylinder. The pump comprises a pump body, an inlet valve within the pump body, an exhaust valve within the pump body and in fluid communication with the inlet valve, and a deflate valve within the pump body and in fluid communication with the inlet valve and the exhaust valve. The deflate valve enables one-touch release by (i) providing a voluntarily-activated fluid bypass so that fluid from the at least one inflatable penile cylinder can return to the fluid reservoir through at least one of the plurality of tubing without sustained activation of the deflate valve, and (ii) closing upon subsequent inflation of the at least one inflatable penile cylinder when such inflation is initiated by squeezing the pump bulb so that fluid does not flow back to the fluid reservoir.
US08632444B2 Portable workout apparatus having a pivotally mounted exercise bar
An exercise device is disclosed that is useful for performing various exercises including Pilates exercises. The exercise device includes a pilates tower having first and second sides. A first padded surface extends horizontally from the first side of the pilates tower. The first padded surface pivotally mounts to the pilates tower. A second padded surface extends horizontally from the pilates tower. A third padded surface is removably attached to the first padded surface. A pivot frame pivotally attaches to the pilates tower. The pivot frame extends over the second padded surface in one embodiment. In addition, the pivot frame can include a first horizontal bar. The exercise device can also include a second horizontal bar for use as a plie bar.
US08632442B2 Weight control apparatus for a weight training machine
Disclosed is a weight control apparatus for a weight training machine. The weight control apparatus includes a plurality of stacks which are fitted to a pair of guides standing upright between supports on a base such that the stacks slidably move up and down, and which have rectangular locking holes; a body arranged on a front surface of the base, in which the body has a plurality of insertion holes corresponding to the locking holes of the stacks and is provided at an upper portion thereof with a holder; and a cover arranged on the front surface of the body and having a plurality of locking pin members inserted into the insertion holes. Each locking pin member includes a rectangular stopper having a recess inwardly recessed, protrusions protruding from both sides of the recess, and locking protrusions protruding from both sides of the stopper; a shaft pin connected to a front end of the stopper; a button arranged on a front end of the shaft pin; and a conical coil spring arranged between the button and the shaft pin.
US08632441B2 Multi-function exerciser
A multi-function exerciser includes a main frame. Two first universal joint units and two second universal joint units are respectively provided at two sides of the main frame. Two action units are pivotally connected to the first and second universal joint units. The two axes of the first and second universal joint units at the same side are at the same level and perpendicular to each other. Thus, the user can swing forward and rearward as well as left and right when standing on the footrests of the two action units for a forward split and a side split. Besides, because the two axes are at the same level and perpendicular to each other, the user can stand with one foot and lift another foot to do an oval turning for getting strong muscles in the legs.
US08632427B2 Golf green slope reading aid
The present invention provides a golf aid for determining the slope of putting green or other area of a golf course. More specifically, the invention provides a device for calibrating suspending Optionally, the device includes a ball marker and can include tools for assembling the device in a golf club.
US08632423B2 Golf ball
The present invention is to a golf ball having an equator at latitude 0° and two poles; and an equator region defined by latitudes 0 to 25°, a shoulder region defined by latitudes from more than 25° to less than 65°, and a pole region defined by latitudes 65° to 90°; and a dimple pattern on the surface of the golf ball having an average dimple volume of the equator region Ve, an average dimple volume of the shoulder region, Vs, and an average dimple volume of the pole region, Vp such that the ratio Vs/Ve is less than 0.97 and the ratio Vp/Vs is less than 0.97.
US08632421B2 Golf club head
A golf club head according to one or more aspects of the present invention may include a main cavity having at least one auxiliary cavity and a base surface. An insert may be associated with the base surface and may comprise at least two contact elements, with a bridge member disposed therebetween. Different contact elements of the insert may be disposed in separate respective auxiliary cavities, such that each contact element may be associated with the base surface. The bridge member of the insert may be dissociated from the base surface. Moreover, a surface coating may be selectively applied to the head to permit a durable adhesive bond between the insert and the base surface.
US08632419B2 Golf club head
A golf club head (20) having optimized ball speed robustness is disclosed. The golf club head (20) preferably has one or more channels (100, 110, 120) disposed proximate to a striking face (40), and in some embodiments the one or more channels (100, 110, 120) substantially encircle the striking face (40).
US08632406B2 Player tracking communication mechanisms in a gaming machine
A disclosed a player tracking unit provides a multimedia interface with a display and an interface to one or more sound projection devices and a multimedia board for processing digitally formatted program files for output on the multimedia interface. The player tracking unit may provide menus of audio and video programs, such as a menu for a musical jukebox or a menu for a video-on-demand service. Using a “TV-like” interface, a user may be able to select a program to output on the multimedia interface and control playback features of the program.
US08632400B2 Gaming device with personality
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to gaming devices that provide audio-visual animated characters in response to game play. The character has a personality that may be encouraging, taunting or another quality. A plurality of expressions of the personality is presented, between one extreme and another, dependant upon the history of game outcomes.
US08632393B2 Gaming machine with loyalty bonus
A gaming machine is provided, which awards loyalty points to players playing the game who have identified themselves to the machine. The machine is arranged to award loyalty points to the player and to play two game means wherein, the first or base game may be provided by the slot machine game as a stand alone function with no dependence upon a supporting communications network, the second game may be linked game in which a plurality of network connected machines (50) participate with control of the game being provided by a central game controller (60), while the communications network (62) is controlled by a network controller (61). A first game mode is available to all players and a second enhanced game mode is made available to players who have reached a predetermined threshold of loyalty points.
US08632389B2 Gaming system and a method of gaming
A gaming system comprising a selector arranged to select a plurality of symbols from a set of symbols for display in a display area at a plurality of display positions and to select a plurality of win line elements. The gaming system is arranged to define a special win line when a plurality of win line elements are contiguously displayed across the display area, and an outcome generator arranged to determine a game outcome based on symbols displayed along the special win line if a special win line is defined. A corresponding method is also disclosed.
US08632388B2 Gaming device and method of providing an adjusted paytable for a number of future plays of a game
One embodiment of the present disclosure provides a game operable upon a wager by a player which initially employs an initial or default paytable. The gaming device enables a player to place wagers on plays of the game. The gaming device displays the game outcomes and provides the player with any awards based on the game outcomes in accordance with the default paytable. Upon an occurrence of a triggering event, a bonus mode is triggered. In one embodiment, when the bonus mode is triggered, the gaming device offers to replace the default paytable with a different one of the paytables for a limited number of future plays of the game, if the player agrees to make an additional wager on each of those future plays of the game. If the player chooses to accept the offer, the gaming device determines outcomes and provides any awards for the limited number of future plays in accordance with the new paytable, as long as the player continues placing the additional wager for each of those plays. If the player chooses not to accept the offer to replace the default paytable with a new paytable, the gaming device displays the number of future plays of the game without requiring the additional wager and provides any awards for those plays in accordance with the default paytable.
US08632378B2 Micro-abrasive blasting device for dental applications and methods
A micro-abrasive blasting device comprises a mixing chamber, a delivery conduit extending from external the mixing chamber to the mixing chamber and a discharge conduit extending from the mixing chamber. Abrasive material may selectively be sealed in the chamber by positioning the discharge conduit to abut the inlet port. The chamber may be spherical to deliver consistent powder perturbation at all mixing chamber orientations. Methods of using the device are disclosed. Methods of making the device by blow molding are disclosed.
US08632377B2 Ultrasonic trimming method
An ultrasonic trimming method is composed of steps, driving a cutter blade having a flat plate shape and supported by an arm at an end of an articulated robot via an ultrasonic oscillator, the cutter blade being driven by the arm while the cutter blade is ultrasonically vibrated; cutting a workpiece secured by a workpiece securing portion; and during, operation for cutting, moving the cutter blade held attached to the articulated robot to the position at where the cutting edge is brought into contact with the grindstone, maintaining the cutter blades attitude such that a plane containing the cutting edge thereof contacts the grindstone, and grinding the cutter blade by pressing the cutter blade against a grinding member by the arm while the cutter blade is ultrasonically vibrated, the grinding member being disposed within a movable range of the cutter blade driven by the articulated robot.
US08632374B2 Salvage suit for shipwrecks
The present invention relates to a salvage or safety suit worn by a person escaping a shipwreck. The suit includes a receptacle structured to receive and enclose a person's body and a head opening for entering the receptacle. The receptacle is layered to provide flotation and thermo-insulation properties to the suit.
US08632373B2 Foldable watercraft fin
Foldable or collapsible watercraft fins are described. Preferred examples of such fins are foldable surfboard, paddleboard, and kayak fins, one or more of which can be attached to a surfboard, paddleboard, or kayak.
US08632368B2 Electrical connector with separable contacts
A contact sub-assembly is provided for an electrical connector. The contact sub-assembly includes a printed circuit and an array of mating contacts. Each mating contact includes a terminating end portion and a mating interface. The contact sub-assembly also includes an array of circuit contacts that is discrete from the array of mating contacts. Each circuit contact is engaged with and electrically connected to the printed circuit. Each circuit contact is separably engaged with and electrically connected to the terminating end portion of a corresponding one of the mating contacts such that the array of circuit contacts electrically connects the array of mating contacts to the printed circuit.
US08632361B2 Electrical connector
An electrical connector is provided in the present invention, including a plurality of electrical terminal groups, a metal housing, a metal positioning seat and a fixing member. The metal housing has a plurality of terminal-receiving grooves, each of which can accommodate two electrical terminal groups. A contact end of the electrical terminal group extends forward within the metal housing, and a connection end of the electrical terminal group extends downward out of the metal housing. The fixing member has a first bending sheet and a second bending sheet, which are perpendicular to each other and respectively connected to the metal housing and the metal positioning seat for fixing the metal positioning seat to the metal housing. The electrical connector of the present invention uses the metal housing to enhance the electromagnetic shielding effect, have a better heat dissipation efficacy and improve the stability of the connection structure.
US08632353B2 Motor programming tool
A motor programming tool is disclosed for associating with a connection block of a motor and sending signals to a programmable controller of the motor, where the connection block includes a plurality of terminals coupled to the controller. The programming tool includes a tool body with an interface generally corresponding with the connection block of the motor, wiring operable to carry the signals, and a plurality of terminal connecting assemblies to associate with the motor terminals. The tool body includes a shiftable locking mechanism operable to selectively secure the tool body relative to the electrical connection block of the motor. The locking mechanism includes a pivotable latch moveable between an open position, wherein the connecting assemblies are freely moveable into and out of contact with the motor terminals, and a closed position, wherein at least a portion of the pivotable latch is in contact with the motor and the connecting assemblies are restricted from moving out of contact with the motor terminals.
US08632348B2 Electrical cord with tamper resistant mechanism
An electrical cord including a plug on a first end and at least one socket on a second end opposite the first end, a protective shutter assembly disposed within the at least one socket, the shutter assembly including a first and second shutter members positioned proximate the cover assembly and each of the first and second shutter members is at least partially aligned with separate cover openings in the cover assembly and being configured to move from a closed position to an open position in response to engaging at least one plug blade, a third shutter member positioned behind the first shutter member, a fourth shutter member positioned behind the second shutter member, and wherein the first and second shutter members pivot from the closed position to the open position and the third and fourth shutter members slide from the closed position to the open position.
US08632342B2 Training system for an article of footwear
A training system for an article of footwear is disclosed. The training system includes a method of training an athlete to use an article of footwear with a shape correcting member to perform various types of skills including passing a ball. The method can be implemented on a computer, mobile device or as an instruction booklet. The training system provides a total training solution for an athlete that is designed to enhance specific athletic skills.
US08632341B2 Products and methods for providing education with a virtual book
A product and method for providing a read along educational activity to a user are provided. The product is a single data storage medium containing both book information and associated, coordinated audio narration information. The book information comprises visual images of a book, including pages of a book, moving images of the pages being turned, text on the pages of the book, and pictures or illustrations related to the book or story. The user views the book information on a video screen, as if it were an actual book, while listening to the associated and coordinated audio narration. The product also comprises supplemental features to enhance the read along activity and assist in learning.
US08632328B2 Device for arranging a dough layer on a conveyor
The invention relates to a device for arranging a dough layer on a conveyor, comprising a funnel with a receiving chamber for receiving dough, a discharge opening into which the receiving chamber debouches, and means for applying an oil film to at least a part of the inner side of the receiving chamber, wherein at least a part of the inner wall of the receiving chamber is convex on the interior of the funnel in a section parallel to a direction of the receiving chamber toward the discharge opening. The invention also relates to a method for arranging a dough layer on a conveyor.
US08632318B2 Pumping mud by electrohydrodynamic propulsion
A section of riser casing urges drilling mud through the riser, either upward from the sea floor to reduce head pressure or downward toward the wellbore. The section of riser casing may use an electromagnet, two or more electrodes, or a combination of electromagnets and electrodes to urge drilling mud having electrohydrodynamic properties through the riser casing.
US08632310B2 Rotor blade and method of making same
A helicopter rotor blade includes a structural composite skin defining a cavity therein; a composite spar disposed within the cavity and adhesively bonded to the skin, a portion of the spar exhibiting a C-shape in cross section; and a foam core disposed within the cavity and adhesively bonded to the skin. The structural composite skin forms an external, closed box structure configured to transmit mechanical loads encountered by the rotor blade.
US08632304B2 Turbocharger diffuser
A housing (410, 510, 610, 700, 800, 900) for a turbocharger (400, 500, 600) is provided. The housing (410, 510, 610, 700, 800, 900) has an impeller chamber (403, 503, 603), diffuser (450, 550, 650, 750, 850, 950) and scroll (420, 520, 620, 720, 820, 920) in fluid communication with each other. The diffuser (450, 550, 650, 750, 850, 950) can have a curved shape and/or a bend (455) in proximity to a tip (408, 508, 608, 609) of the impeller (405, 505, 605). The curved shape can be defined by one or more radii of curvature (RC, RC1, RC2). The diffuser (450, 550, 650, 750, 850, 950) can extend in a radial direction that is non-orthogonal to the center line of the turbocharger (400, 500, 600). The housing (410, 510, 610, 700, 800, 900) can be for a compressor section of the turbocharger (400, 500, 600).
US08632302B2 Compressor performance adjustment system
A compressor performance adjustment system includes a compressor chassis defining an inlet passageway, a diffuser passageway coupled to the inlet passageway, and a return passageway extending from the diffuser passageway. At least one inlet vane is located in the inlet passageway. At least one diffuser vane is located in the diffuser passageway. At least one return vane is moveably coupled to the compressor chassis and located in the return passageway. The return vanes may be adjusted without disassembling the compressor chassis in order to adjust the flow incident on compressor components and adjust the performance of a compressor.
US08632288B2 Anti cross-thread bolt
An anti cross-thread bolt which prevents the bolt from being cross-threaded without the need for correcting its posture by a pilot portion. The bolt is screwed into a female screw having a nominal diameter D and an inner diameter D1. At the tip of a regular thread part formed on the bolt shank, a small-diameter thread part is formed by one pitch or more, the small-diameter thread part having an outer diameter d which is larger than an inner diameter D of the female screw and smaller than (D+D1)/2. When the bolt is obliquely screwed into the female screw, the small-diameter thread part is brought into contact with the female screw at one point, but the bolt is allowed to rotate around the point. Thus, the occurrence of cross-threading is prevented.
US08632277B2 Retaining wall soil reinforcing connector and method
An apparatus and method of connecting an earthen formation to a concrete facing of a mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) structure. A one-piece connector having a stem and a tab, wherein the stem is connected to a soil reinforcing element embedded within the earthen formation and the tab is connected to a facing anchor attached to the concrete facing. The connection allows soil reinforcing mats to swivel in a horizontal plane, but also to shift vertically in reaction to MSE settling or thermal expansion/contraction of an MSE structure.
US08632270B2 Retractable lamp pen
A lamp pen includes a pen body, a refill, a conductive rotating slide, a lamp, and a cartridge holding a battery. The rotating slide is electrically connected to the battery. A conductive bar on a surface of the slide abuts an end of the cartridge, which comprises a helical surface forming higher and auxiliary higher slots disposed at a highest point of the surface. A first lead of the lamp is connected to the battery, and a second lead is affixed within the higher slot. Rotating the slide causes the conductive bar to engage either the higher slot or auxiliary higher slot, pushing the cartridge downward so that the refill extends out of the pen tip. When the higher slot is engaged, the second lead of the lamp connects to the conductive bar, the electric circuit completes, and the lamp illuminates.
US08632268B2 Implement having a reaction and delivery system
A reaction and delivery implement (100) that includes a handle (103) configured for user manipulation, a head (102) having a plurality of agent housing regions (120,130), the first agent housing region (120) housing a first agent and the second agent housing region (130) housing a second agent, the first and second agents being different is described. The head is configured to facilitate both prevention of intermixing of the first and second agents in a storage position as well as reaction of the first and second agents through intermixing in a delivery position so as to produce and apply a third agent to a contacted surface when in the delivery position. The reaction and delivery implement may be an oral care implement such as a toothbrush. The implement may also be motorized and may be used with a wide array of reactions.
US08632263B2 Optical module mounting unit and optical module
An optical module includes a module housing body including an electrical connection section for electrically connecting the electronic substrate and the optical module to each other and a housing section for housing the optical module, where the module housing body is mounted on the electronic substrate in such a manner that an electrical connection terminal of the electronic substrate and the electrical connection section is connected to each other and a fixing member for maintaining a state in which an electrical connection terminal of the optical module has contact with the electrical connection section in the module housing body. The optical module is housed in the housing section and is fixed in a removable manner by the fixing member, and the optical waveguide and the optical element are configured to be optically coupled to each other in a state in which the optical module is fixed.
US08632258B2 Optical connector adapter with shutter
An optical connector adapter allowing a stopper member to be arranged at ends of an insertion hole while being overlaid on a shutter member is provided.In the optical connector adapter, a first base plate of the shutter member is fitted into a bottom wall recess, a second base plate of the stopper member is fitted into the bottom wall recess while being overlaid on the first base plate of the shutter member, first both side plates of the shutter member are fitted into a sidewall recess, and the second both side plates of the stopper member are fitted into the sidewall recess while being overlaid on the first both side plates of the shutter member.
US08632253B2 Bearing unit of a shaft of a pressure generating device
A bearing unit rotatably supports a shaft of a pressure generating device, such a boost pressure generating device of an internal combustion engine. The bearing unit includes at least a first rolling-element bearing and a second rolling-element bearing, each rolling-element bearing having an inner ring and an outer ring. An annular space is defined between the respective inner and outer rings and rolling elements are disposed in the annular space. At least one volume element is disposed in the annular space and at least partially fills the annular space in an axial area.
US08632248B2 Linear guide device
A seal member is a member including a lip, a seal base, a first extension section smaller in thickness than the seal base, and a first locking section, all of which are formed to be continuous in the cross-sectional direction. A retainer plate includes a base accommodating concave section for accommodating the seal base, and a first engagement concave section for accommodating the first locking section, and controls the first locking section to prevent the seal member from falling off. The first locking section is accommodated in the first engagement concave section with gaps left in the thickness and cross-sectional directions.
US08632245B2 Temperature sensor
A temperature sensor is provided that can easily make possible stuffing with the filler or burying of the temperature detector element so that faster temperature response can be achieved. A temperature sensor has a closed-bottom tubular shaped case, a temperature detector element inserted and accommodated in the case, and a filler filled in the case and sealing the temperature detector element. The temperature sensor is provided with a filler flowing portion formed in a relative gap between the case and the temperature detector element along an insertion direction of the temperature detector element and having a gap relative to the temperature detector element larger than that relative to the remainder portion of the gap.
US08632238B2 Surface light source device
A surface light source device has a point light source disposed opposite a light incident surface of a light guide plate. The light guide plate includes a light introduction part, and a light guide plate body having a thickness smaller than a maximum thickness of the light introduction part. The light introduction part includes an inclined surface inclined from a surface in a portion having a thickness larger than the thickness of the light guide plate body toward an end of the surface of the light guide plate body. The light guide plate body has a light exit pattern for reflecting the light in the light guide plate body to output the light from a light exit surface. In a region close to the point light source of the light guide plate body, the thickness of the light guide plate body increases gradually with distance from the point light source.
US08632237B2 Light guide plate with adjustable illumination angle, illumination device with adjustable illumination angle, and method for adjusting illumination angle thereof
A light guide plate with an adjustable illumination angle and an illumination device using the same are provided. The light guide plate has a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The second surface further has a plurality of deformable microstructures thereon. The deformable microstructures will be deformed when an external force is applied to the deformable microstructures. The illumination device has a light source and a light guide plate that is disposed next to the light source. A light beam emitted from the light source enters into the light guide plate and leaves the light guide plate via reflecting or refracting by the deformable microstructures. By applying a different external force to the light guide plate, the deformation of the deformable microstructures will be varied. Therefore, the illumination angle of the light beam could be changed according to the deformation of the deformable microstructures.
US08632231B1 Mechanic's light
A mechanic's light incorporating illuminating light emitting diodes; a support frame having a light supporting end and a light covering end; a first hinge pivotally interconnecting the support frame's light supporting end and light covering end; and a second hinge pivotally interconnecting the illuminating light emitting diodes and the support frame's light supporting end, the support frame's ends being pivotably moveable between a protective “clam shell” position and an opened use position.
US08632227B2 Heat removal system and method for light emitting diode lighting apparatus
One heat removal assembly includes a plurality of fins configured to receive heat from a light emitting diode. In the plurality of fins, two adjacent fins are separated by a gap width, and each fin has a fin length. The heat removal assembly also includes a duct configured to draw a stack-effect airflow through the plurality of fins to remove heat from the plurality of fins. The gap width separating two adjacent fins and the fin length of each of the fins are configured to prevent boundary layer choking the plurality of fins. The heat removal assembly also includes a conductor and a thermal storage system configured to receive heat from the light emitting diode.
US08632220B2 LED street lamp and a street lamp fixing device
A street lamp fixing device includes a LED module, a heat dissipation device, a lamp holder, a metal plate and a connector. The heat dissipation device has a lamp holder mounting recess cooperating with the metal plate for locking the lamp holder. Moreover, an LED street lamp with natural convection devices accelerates the airflow within the street lamp to a faster speed to enhance heat exchange, whereby the lifespan of the LED street lamp is extended and the weight and size of the street lamp are reduced.
US08632214B1 Light modules with uninterrupted arrays of LEDs
A light fixture includes multiple LED modules where each LED module includes a substrate on which one or more LED's are disposed. The LED modules can interface with one another in a variety of different configurations, such that when adjacent LED modules interface with one another, there is a substantially continuous array of LED's across the LED modules. Electrical connectors or other means for powering the LED modules are disposed such that they do not impact the continuity of light across adjacent LED modules.
US08632211B2 Flat LED lighting device
A flat LED lighting device may include a flat LED light source having a plurality of light emitting diodes (LED) devices, a diffuser for scattering a light from the LED devices, a glare preventive member for preventing as a side glare, and an intermediate layer provided between the diffuser and the glare preventive member. The intermediary layer may have a different refractive index than the diffuser. The glare preventive member may include a transparent plate and a plurality of micro-lenses on the transparent plate for changing a distribution of the light.
US08632202B2 White LED, backlight using same, and liquid crystal display device conforming to EBU standard
In a embodiment, a white LED for a backlight of a liquid crystal display device conforming to the EBU standard includes an ultraviolet (purple) light-emitting element, and a phosphor layer which contains 1 to 10 wt % of a green phosphor including a divalent europium-activated silicate phosphor, 40 to 80 wt % of a blue phosphor including at least one selected from a divalent europium-activated halo-phosphate phosphor and a divalent europium-activated aluminate phosphor, and 10 to 50 wt % of a red phosphor including at least one selected from a europium-activated lanthanum oxysulfide phosphor and a europium-activated yttrium oxysulfide phosphor.
US08632201B2 Display device with integrated photovoltaic cells, with improved luminosity
A display device, in particular digital display screen, with integrated photovoltaic cells, including (a) an array of image zones emitting light or backlit by a light source placed behind the array of image zones, (b) an array formed by a plurality of photovoltaic cells and a plurality of orifices, in which array two neighboring photovoltaic cells form an orifice, and (c) a lenticular array making it possible to focus the light emitted by the image zones into the orifice between two neighboring photovoltaic cells. The lenticular array of the display device is positioned between the array of image zones and the array of photovoltaic cells.
US08632199B2 Lamp apparatuses
A lamp apparatus include a lamp body, at least an alternating current light-emitting diode and a plug. The alternating current light-emitting diode is disposed on a lamp body. The plug is electrically connected to the alternating current light-emitting diode. In lamp apparatuses utilizing AC LED, heat generated thereby is almost concentrated on chips. Compared with conventional lamp apparatuses utilizing DC LEDs, heat generated thereby is distributed on chips and outer rectifier. In lamp apparatuses utilizing AC LEDs, heat generated thereby is almost concentrated on chips because AC LEDs operate directly with AC electric power, omitting a rectifier and preventing power loss during operation of power rectification. Therefore, the heat accumulated on the chips of the AC LEDs is enough to be used to evaporate essential oil. In another embodiment, the invention utilizes low-resistance pure water surrounding the AC LED to dissipate its heat.
US08632196B2 LED lamp incorporating remote phosphor and diffuser with heat dissipation features
An LED lamp or bulb is disclosed that comprises a light source, a heat sink structure and a remote phosphor carrier having at least one conversion material. The phosphor carrier can be remote to the light sources and mounted to the heat sink so that heat from the phosphor carrier spreads into the heat sink. The phosphor carrier can have a three-dimensional shape, and can comprise a thermally conductive transparent material and a phosphor layer, with an LED based light source mounted to the heat sink such that light from the light source passes through the phosphor carrier. At least some of the LED light is converted by the phosphor carrier, with some lamp embodiments emitting a white light combination of LED and phosphor light. The phosphors in the phosphor carriers can be arranged to operate at a lower temperature to thereby operate at greater phosphor conversion efficiency and with reduced heat related damage to the phosphor. The lamps or bulbs can also comprise a diffuser over the phosphor carrier to distribute light and to conceal the phosphor carrier.
US08632195B2 Catoptric objectives and systems using catoptric objectives
In general, in one aspect, the invention features an objective arranged to image radiation from an object plane to an image plane, including a plurality of elements arranged to direct the radiation from the object plane to the image plane, wherein the objective has an image side numerical aperture of more than 0.55 and a maximum image side field dimension of more than 1 mm, and the objective is a catoptric objective.
US08632185B2 Intraoperative estimation of intraocular lens power
Apparatus for performing intraocular implant surgery, including surgical apparatus for performing intraocular implant surgery, an autorefraction device associated with the surgical apparatus, wherein the autorefraction device is configured to perform autorefraction on the aphakic eye to provide one or more aphakic refraction measurements, and a processor connected to the autorefraction device, wherein the processor is configured to process the aphakic refraction measurements and provide the user of the apparatus with information regarding the power of the intraocular lens.
US08632184B2 Self guided subjective refraction instruments and methods
A refraction device determines a refraction end point to provide corrective optics for a test subject. The device includes an adjustable optical system providing corrective optics to the test subject and an adjustable viewing target disposed along an optical path such as to be viewable through the adjustable optical system by a test subject. The adjustable viewing target includes a directional indicator linked synchronously to at least two choices of corrective optics presented to the test subject.
US08632181B2 SS OCT interferometry for measuring a sample
An SS OCT interferometry device for measuring a sample, in particular from an eye. The device interferometrically generates a measuring signal and from the signal a depth-resolved contrast signal of the sample by spectral tuning of the central wavelength of the measurement radiation of a measuring signal, and has a control unit for this purpose. The device includes a sample motion detector, which provides a motion signal indicating movement of or in the sample, the control unit uses the motion signal to correct the measuring signal with respect to measuring errors that are caused by a movement of or in the sample before or during the generation of the depth-resolved contrast signal.
US08632177B2 Method for determining the inset of a progressive addition lens
A method for determining the value of the inset of a progressive addition lens according to a wearer comprising the steps of: providing convergence data, determining from the convergence data the inset of the progressive addition lens considering at least the convergence data and the prismatic effect of the progressive addition lens.
US08632164B2 Liquid ejecting apparatus
A liquid ejecting apparatus includes a platen disposed with a gap from a nozzle plate of a recording head and supporting a recording medium in ejecting, and an platen application voltage generating unit generating an electric field having a direction different from an electric field generated between an individual external electrode of a piezoelectric vibrator and nozzles, between the nozzle plate and the platen, in which the intensity of the electric field generated by the applied-to-plate voltage generating unit is set in between the maximum electric field intensity and the minimum electric field intensity between the individual external electrode and the nozzles.
US08632161B2 Liquid ejection head and image forming apparatus including the liquid ejection head
A liquid ejection head includes a common-chamber formation member including a common chamber to supply liquid to pressure chambers communicating nozzles for ejecting liquid droplets, a flexible thin-film member to form part of a wall face of the common chamber, and a thin-film support member bonded to the thin-film member with glue. The support member has an opening or a recessed portion at least partially having a shape that is broad in an area proximal to a first surface of the support member bonded to the thin-film member and becomes narrower as an area of the opening or the recessed portion is more distant from the first surface. The opening or the recessed portion is sealed with the thin-film member. A portion of the thin-film member corresponding to the opening or the recessed portion has the glue on only a periphery area of the portion that contacts the support member.
US08632160B2 Image forming apparatus including recording head for ejecting liquid droplets
An image forming apparatus includes recording heads, head holders, a carriage, a guide member, a reference member, and a pressing member. The recording heads have nozzles to eject liquid droplets. The holders hold the recording heads. The carriage is reciprocally movable in a main scanning direction and holding the holders. The guide member is disposed along the main scanning direction to guide the carriage along the main scanning direction. The reference member is disposed parallel to the guide member in the carriage to hold the holders. The pressing member presses at least one of the holders toward at least another of the holders. The holders have reference faces to contact each other in the main scanning direction to determine relative positions of the holders. With the recording heads positioned based on the reference faces of the holders, the recording heads are held by the holders.
US08632156B2 Paper floating detection apparatus, paper conveyance apparatus and image recording apparatus
A paper floating detection apparatus is arranged at a conveyance path of a conveyance device which holds paper on a conveyance surface and conveys the paper in a conveyance direction while causing a surface of the paper to face a droplet ejection head. The detection apparatus includes: a light emission unit and a light reception unit arranged to face each other across the conveyance path, such that an optical path of detection light emitted from the light emission unit and received by the light reception unit is substantially perpendicular to the conveyance direction, floating up of the paper from the conveyance surface being detected by detecting that the conveyed paper has shielded the detection light; and an air flow diverting guide member which is arranged in a periphery of the optical path and configured to prevent inflow of air having a temperature differential sufficient to affect the optical path.
US08632153B2 Printing system having multiple sided pattern registration
A printing system includes a media transport system and first and second printheads that print first and second patterns on first and second sides of the media, respectively. An image registration system includes a fiducial including an origin and first and second sides. A first camera captures a first fiducial image of the first side and origin and a first pattern image of the first pattern. A second camera captures a second fiducial image of the second side and origin and a second pattern image of the second pattern. A registration controller processes the first and second fiducial images and pattern images to determine a relative position of the first and second patterns. A print controller, controlling printhead operation, adjusts the registration of subsequently printed patterns on at least one of the first and second sides of the media based on the determined relative pattern position.
US08632144B2 Food storage drawer and container
Here is disclosed a nearly air tight storage container for storing goods. The container includes a drawer having walls, an open top and a circumscribing rim surrounding the open top. The container further includes a housing for containing the drawer. The housing has a top wall and opposite side walls. The top wall has an underside with a peripheral rim. The side walls of the housing and the side walls of the drawer permitting the drawer to slide in and out of the housing between an open position and a closed position wherein the drawer is fully contained within the housing. The top wall of the housing is inclined such that when the drawer is in its closed position the top wall of the housing closes off the open top of the drawer with the circumscribing rim of the drawer sealing against the peripheral rim of the housing.
US08632141B2 Sliding apparatus with self-closing means
A sliding apparatus with a self-closing unit. The apparatus includes a rail bracket provided on each of opposite sides of a main body to face a movable rail, having a cover space spaced apart from the main body, and supporting a fixed rail in a direction towards the movable rail. A self-closing unit is provided at a predetermined position on the fixed rail and secured to the rail bracket. A cover protrudes from each of the opposite sides of the storage part to surround the sliding apparatus and the self-closing unit, and moves along with the storage part to be inserted into the cover space when the storage part is closed. A drive part is provided at a predetermined position on the cover, protrudes towards the self-closing unit, and moves along with the storage part to be latched by the self-closing unit.
US08632134B2 Carriage for a recovery plough
A traction carriage for an underground mining plow, comprising a traction carriage body which can be inserted into a cavity in a plow body and which on the rear side of a guide recess has a front part whose ends pointing in the direction of travel form stop surfaces for interacting with counterstop surfaces in the cavity of the plow body. According to the invention, a damping device having a damping action in both directions of travel is integrated into the front part of the traction carriage. In order to provide a low-maintenance damping device which allows a more favorable transmission of force between the stop surface on the traction carriage and the counterstop surface on the plow body, the coupling piece can be moved relative to the stop surfaces counter to the restoring force of a damping system of the damping device that is arranged between the stop surfaces.
US08632133B2 Water sprays for dust control on mining machines
This invention refers to innovative water sprays applications to significantly improve coal and quartz dust control around a continuous miner. Significant dust control is achieved through utilizing different types of sprays at locations on the top and sides of the miner chassis to create water curtains or shrouds of water around zones of high dust concentration and zones of high concentration dust transport. This is called “multiple lines of defense” spray system (MLD.) This invention also provides a method of reducing dust around a continuous miner by configuring a spray system, located at the top or sides of the cutter boom, thereby improving control of respirable dust.
US08632124B2 Reclining ride down child seat
The child safety seat includes a seat body having a seat bottom and a seat back. The seat bottom is slidably connected to a first portion of the base and the seat back is slidably connected to a second portion of the base. The seat body is movable relative to the base, namely, between a resting position and ride down position. A dampening member is connected between the seat body and the base for dampening/retarding the movement of the seat body from the resting position to the ride down position. The dampening member is preferably partially oriented yarn that is no longer usable after use, such as in the event of an accident. The recline angle of the seat body relative to the base is adjustable.
US08632115B2 Hatch system for a motor craft, in particular for an automobile vehicle
Hatch system (1) for a motor craft, in particular for an automobile vehicle, for example, the hatch (1) being mounted articulated about a substantially horizontal fixed main rotation axis (A) supported by the chassis of the motor craft, and being movable about the main rotation axis (A) manually or automatically by drive means (5) between a closed position and an open position, characterized in that, during a phase of movement of the hatch (1), the drive means (5) driving rotation of the hatch (1) about the main rotation axis (A) actuate means (7) for maneuvering the hatch (1) in rotation in the opposite direction about a secondary rotation axis (B), the combination of these two movements in rotation causing the hatch (1) to move in a substantially vertical plane without necessarily causing lateral movement of the hatch during this phase of movement of the hatch (1).
US08632107B2 Rear structure of vehicle
A vehicle includes a rear bumper that extends in a vehicle width direction at a rear section of a vehicle body and that has a recess bulging toward a front side of the vehicle body, and a reflector attached to the recess. The recess has an opening for fixing the reflector to the rear bumper. The reflector has an attachment portion attached to the opening and a guide wall portion extending in the vertical direction. The recess has a first return hole at a position corresponding to an area below the vertical wall portion.
US08632106B2 Drive unit comprising a blocked functional element for a central locking mechanism
A drive unit (1) comprising at least one electric drive motor (2) that moves a functional element (3), wherein the functional element (3) assumes, during its movement, a stop position (4) for switching off an electric drive motor (2), and at least one frictional element (6) cooperating with the functional element (3), wherein the frictional element (6) is disposed along a segment of a motion pathway (5) before the functional element (3) reaches the stop position (4). In addition, a motor vehicle lock (10) having a central locking mechanism (11) with such a drive unit (1).
US08632091B2 Drawbar pin retention device
In an example embodiment, an automatic engaging drawbar pin retention device includes a biased locking plate configured to retain a drawbar pin within a drawbar bore. The locking plate may be movably coupled to a drawbar clevis between a pin-lock to at least partly cover the bore and prevent removal of the drawbar pin and a pin-unlock condition.
US08632090B2 Coaxial tube holder
A coaxial tube holder is provided, which essentially has a holder major body having an aperture for tightening and holding fork tube of bicycle. The holder major body has an abutment segment provided on the bottom side thereof, which is abutted against bearing seat body of head tube. An ornamental cover is inserted outside the holder major body. Then the assembly can be finished very easily and securely between the head tube and the fork tube by the holder major body. Further, the ornamental cover can be made in different color or to be transparent, or to have decorative body having pattern, veins or characters images thereon, so that the overall design can be more novel and dazzling to attract more consumer groups to purchase. Hence, benefit of enhancing competitiveness of industry can be achieved.
US08632089B1 Mechanism for converting reciprocal motion to rotary motion
A mechanism for converting reciprocal motion to rotary motion. A pair of driving members are mounted to undergo reciprocal up-and-down movement about a first axis. A pair of driving chains are drivingly connected to the respective driving members so that reciprocal up-and-down movement of the driving members transmits respective driving forces to the driving chains. A driven member is mounted for undergoing rotational motion in one direction of rotation about a second axis different from the first axis. A drive unit transfers, via the driving forces of the driving chains, reciprocal up-and-down movement of the driving members to rotational motion of the driven member in the one direction of rotation.
US08632088B2 Mobile ergonomic exercise tricycle apparatus and method
A mobile ergonomic exercise tricycle apparatus and related method of use, comprising: two front wheels; one rear wheel; two front handles, one for each hand of a rider; two pedals, one for each foot of the rider; and a connection between the pedals and the rear wheel such that actuation of the pedals by the rider's feet rotates the rear wheel to move the tricycle forward; wherein: the tricycle does not comprise any seat for sitting; and the pedals are positioned relative to the front handles such that when the rider's feet are atop the pedals and the rider's hands are touching the front handles, the rider is forced into a substantially upright, standing position when the apparatus is at rest and in motion.
US08632080B2 Child carrier assembly for a shopping cart
A child seat assembly for use in a shopping cart and secured to the hinged rear gate of the shopping cart that is configured for lifting to expose a rear opening for nesting like carts. The child seat is secured in the lower one-third portion of the shopping cart rear wall height by hinged connections, such that the seat assembly is movable between a use and a non-use configuration, and the seat assembly is suspended in position by a strut member connected to the seat back and the rear gate at a position above the seat bottom.
US08632077B2 Multilayer static gasket with bead compression limiter
A multilayer static cylinder head gasket has at least one metal functional layer and a metal distance layer having registered openings. The functional layer has a full bead located radially outwardly from and extending about its opening. The opening in the distance layer is formed in a first portion having a first thickness. A second portion of the distance layer extends radially outwardly from the opening and the first portion, wherein the second portion has a second thickness that is less than the first thickness. A compression limiter is formed in at least one of the functional layer or the distance layer. The compression limiter prevents the full bead from being completely flattened, which in turn maintains the full bead in high sealing pressure against the distance layer relative to the remaining portion of the functional layer and also prevents premature fatigue cracks from forming in the full bead.
US08632075B2 Seal assembly and method for flowing hot gas in a turbine
According to one aspect of the invention, a seal assembly includes a mounting structure coupled to an inner static structure in a turbine. Further, the seal assembly includes a brush seal member coupled to the mounting structure, wherein the brush seal member includes a first end that is in sealing contact with a rotor and a second end in sealing contact with a stator and wherein the brush seal member includes a plurality of bristles.
US08632073B2 Methods and apparatus for a seal
Methods and apparatus for a seal according to various aspects of the present invention include a seal operating in conjunction with a housing and a removable cover. A portion of the seal is attached to the housing and another portion of the seal is attached to the removable cover to enclose a joint between the housing and the removable cover. A cutter cuts the seal, which allows the removable cover to be removed.
US08632071B2 Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus is provided that, even when a recording material is conveyed with a short interval between papers, reduces mistaken detection of a jam without reducing throughput of image formation. To accomplish this, when an interval between papers is not detected by a sensor that is disposed upstream in a conveyance direction but is detected by a sensor that is disposed downstream in the conveyance direction, there is a high possibility of determining that a jam has been generated in which recording material wraps around a fixing roller, but even in such a case, discharge processing is executed normally without a determination that a jam has been generated in which recording material has wrapped around a fixing roller, by using a recording material size and a time period of detection of the interval between papers.
US08632065B2 Sheet processing apparatus
The sheet processing apparatus processes a sheet having an image formed thereon by an image forming apparatus. The sheet processing apparatus includes a sheet folding unit for folding the sheet having an image formed thereon, a sheet tray loaded with the sheet folded by the sheet folding unit to be taken out, and a control unit for controlling the sheet processing apparatus as a whole. The sheet tray includes a mechanism capable of adjusting an angle with a virtual plane and a detection device detecting a change of the angle with the virtual plane. The control unit prohibits ejection from the sheet folding unit to the sheet tray, based on the detection result of the detection device and the content of the folding processing by the sheet folding unit.
US08632060B2 Bumper for manipulator
A bumper includes a supporting member, a base, a flange, a connecting arm, and a resetting assembly. The base is fixedly connected to the supporting member. The connecting arm has a rotating portion rotatably positioned between the flange and the supporting member. The resetting assembly includes a resisting member and an elastic member. The resisting member is slidably connected to the supporting member. The elastic member is configured for producing an elastic force to drive the resisting member to resist the rotating portion of the connecting arm. One of the rotating portion and the resisting member defines a receiving groove, and the other one of the rotating portion and the resisting member defines a restricting protrusion rotatably engaging in the receiving groove.
US08632048B2 Dual by-pass for diaphragm type flushometers
A flush valve diaphragm is provided. The diaphragm includes at least two by-passes orifices. Each by-pass orifice in the diaphragm has a by-pass associated therewith. Each by-pass having a passage therethrough, allows communication with the control chamber above the diaphragm with an inlet chamber below the diaphragm. The diaphragm also integrates the function of locating and providing sealing means to the flush valve system's aux valve mechanism.
US08632042B2 Tilt and swivel mounting for monitors and other devices
A tilt and swivel mounting device may include a base member, a first disc in contact with the base member, and a second disc in contact with the first disc. The first disc may be restricted to moving substantially in a first direction relative to the base member. The second disc may be restricted to moving substantially in a second direction, wherein the second direction is substantially perpendicular to the first direction relative to the first disc. A cover may be attached to the base member for housing the first and second discs in an assembly compressible in response to a user rotatable control. A support base may be attached to an axial shaft, and the axial shaft may be axially coupled to the assembly.
US08632039B2 Device for mounting wireless device case
First mounting ring and second mounting ring are fixed to wireless device case using fastening screws. First mounting ring and second mounting ring are fitted to measurement display section from above, and co-mounting bolt is passed through rings to fasten the rings together. This configuration allows a wireless device to be disposed independent of a meter, and the wireless device can be easily mounted to the meter.
US08632038B2 Method and apparatus for adjusting heights of objects
Embodiments include methods and apparatus for adjusting heights of objects. One embodiment is a leg adjusting assembly that has a housing connected to a leg of a table. A foot mechanism extends outwardly from the housing and from the leg. When a force is applied to the foot mechanism with a foot of a user, a rod vertically moves in the housing and adjusts a height of the table.
US08632033B2 Thrust reverser actuation
A thrust reverser drive arrangement for driving a thrust reverser cowl for movement relative to first and second guide tracks is described which comprises a first actuator located, in use, close to the first guide track, a second actuator located, in use, close to the second guide track, and a third actuator, the actuators being arranged to be driven in synchronism and at the same speed by a drive motor to drive the cowl for movement, the third actuator being of smaller size and/or weight than the first and second actuators, and wherein the third actuator is provided with a load limiter to limit the transmission of loads through the third actuator in the event that the third actuator is subject to a compressive loading greater than a predetermined level. The invention further relates to a load limiter device suitable for use in such an arrangement.
US08632029B1 Material crusher
A material crusher system including a body, a lid, an outlet, and a feed tube disposed through the lid for receiving particulate. The system can include a centrifugal assembly within the body for receiving and crushing the particulate. A motor can be connected to the centrifugal assembly for controlling a rotating plate. A variable frequency drive can be connected to the motor for optimizing a rotation speed of the rotating plate, thereby preventing over-crushing of the particulate. The system can include a plurality of anvil holders disposed around an anvil ring with an anvil in each anvil holder. Each anvil can be impacted by the particulate and a downdraft can carry the particulate from the anvil to the outlet. The system can include a gas purge system for pressurizing a shaft bearing on the motor, enabling for continuous use of the ultrafine material crusher system.
US08632025B2 System and method for ground material characterization in a grinding system
A stream of ground particles is characterized by irradiating it with electromagnetic radiation and detecting electromagnetic radiation emitted from the irradiated particles. The detecting system includes an imaging system and a color image sensor for imaging the particles by way of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the particles. The color image sensor has sensor image elements for spectrally selective detection of the electromagnetic radiation.
US08632011B2 Systems and methods for illuminating a scan volume of an optical code reader
Methods and systems of illuminating a scan volume of an optical code reader are disclosed. In an example configuration, an illumination source associated with the optical code reader is set to a first illumination mode based on a user-configurable parameter that at least partially defines a first depth of field of the optical code reader when the illumination source illuminates the scan volume; while the illumination source is in the first illumination mode, the scan volume is monitored for an indication of whether an object is detected in the scan volume; and if an object is detected in the scan volume while the illumination source is in the first illumination mode, the illumination source is set to a second illumination mode.
US08632009B2 Near field magnetic coupling antenna and RFID reader having the same
A near field magnetic coupling antenna may include a plurality of annularly arranged radiators and an annular conductive portion. The annular conductive portion may include a plurality of conductive segments. A first gap may be formed between any two adjacent radiators. Each conductive segment may partially overlap two adjacent radiators and any two adjacent conductive segments may be separated by a second gap. Two adjacent radiators may be associated with a feed point and a ground point, respectively, and the feed point and the ground point may be disposed in the proximity of the first gap.
US08632007B2 Automated transaction machine
An automated retail terminal in which a plurality of goods and/or services are provided in an integrated system. The integrated system generally avoids duplicating hardware or functions in the course of delivering the goods or services offered, so for example in a combination ATM and Internet kiosk the same credit card or smart card reader is used for both the ATM and the Internet kiosk functions, the same control screen activates the ATM functions and the Internet functions, and etc.
US08631988B2 Surgical stapler having an articulation mechanism
An articulation mechanism for use with a surgical instrument includes a shaft, a first member disposed in mechanical cooperation with the articulation shaft, a second member disposed in mechanical cooperation with the shaft, and a flexible shaft having proximal and distal portions. The flexible member is operatively coupled to the first and second members. Upon rotation of the articulation shaft, at least one of the first and the second members moves longitudinally with respect to the other of the first and second members between a first position where the first and second members are approximated to each other and a second position where the first and second members are spaced apart from each other. This longitudinal motion causes the distal portion of the flexible member to articulate relative to the proximal portion.
US08631983B2 Holder
A holder and vehicle storage system are provided for securely retaining objects, such as in the glove compartments of automobiles, trucks, boats, etc. The holder may be mounted to the inside of a glove compartment door such that it is out of sight when the glove compartment door is closed. The vehicle storage system uses a conventional latch mechanism to mount the holder to the door without the need for additional fasteners. An object may be retained within the holder through the use of two undercut tabs for snap-fit reception of the object. The holder and vehicle storage system may be used to hold electronic instruments having sensitive components that would otherwise be damaged during movement of a vehicle.
US08631982B2 Safe attached to the hitch of a vehicle
A safe is provided comprising a main box having a predetermined size, such that the safe may also be used as a step; a lockable flip lid pivotally connected to the inside of said main box; a top lid, pivotally connected to the upper edge of said main box such that it disguises the said flip lid, and configured such that it is capable of being used as a step; and means for locking the safe to the hitch of a vehicle.
US08631981B2 Holster and locking device
A handgun holster with an accessory mounting block and a holster locking device are disclosed. The holster locking device may be mounted on the holster. The holster locking device includes a member for securing a rear end of a handgun. The holster locking device includes a frame. The interior surface of the frame may comprise first and second guide members such that the first and second guide members may be disposed in first and second guide grooves in the holster accessory mounting block. Also disclosed is a passage in the frame. A cantilever on the holster accessory mounting block may be disposed in the passage to engage the frame and lock the handgun holster to the holster locking device.
US08631973B2 Single-use cartridges for the storing and dispensing of dental two-component impression materials
Single-use cartridges for the storing and dispensing of dental two-component impression materials have a closable external chamber with a cylinder-shaped external wall, a cylindrical closable internal chamber that is arranged coaxially or eccentric therein, a mixing element including housing and mobile mixer that is to be mounted separately or connected firmly to the external chamber at its inlet end. Either the internal cylindrical chamber is arranged such that it can be rotated and forms the drive shaft for the mobile mixer part of the mixing element, or the drive shaft extends parallel to the central axis through the internal cylindrical chamber or forms the central axis. The content of the chambers can be dispensed by means of conveying means whose axial thrust motions can be controlled independent of each other.
US08631947B2 Cyclone separator
A preferred embodiment of the invention relates to a cyclone separator for a vacuum toilet system, with a casing; an input-side swirl generator, whose input openings impart a swirl to the inflowing fluid; a separating wall arranged in the casing, which encloses the fluid stream in the cyclone separator ring-like and whose interior cross section tapers downstream; and a collection tank in the casing for receiving and accumulating constituents separated out of the fluid. In addition, the invention relates to a wastewater tank and vacuum toilet system having such a cyclone separator.
US08631945B1 Method for screening fine industrial minerals using a vibrating high speed screening unit
A method for screening mixed particulate into multiple sized particulate simultaneously in a low dust high safety environment.
US08631941B2 Ampoule dispenser assembly and process
A dispenser assembly has a rupturable inner container and a cover member. The rupturable inner container contains a first flowable material. The cover member encapsulates the inner container. The cover member is impregnated with a second material, wherein the inner container is rupturable wherein the first flowable material contacts the cover member and interacts with the second material to form a mixture.
US08631932B2 Chime-engaging package for containers
A carrier comprising a top panel, a first side panel foldably connected to the top panel, a second side panel foldably connected to the top panel, a first bottom panel connected to the first side panel by at least one first strut, and a second bottom panel connected to the second side panel by at least one second strut. At least one container-receiving portion can comprise a first retaining feature and an opposing second retaining feature. At least a portion of the first retaining feature or the second retaining feature is disposed in the first side panel or the second side panel. A container can be retained by at least one of the first retaining feature and the second retaining feature. At least a portion of at least one of the first bottom panel and the second bottom panel is disposed between the container and the top panel.
US08631930B2 Link chain for chain conveyors and horizontal chain links therefor
A link chain for chain conveyors for use in mining, with vertical chain links having a constant cross-sectional profile provided on the inside with a circular arc and on the outside preferably with a flat section, and with horizontal chain links having front sections, longitudinal limbs and an oval inner opening. The longitudinal limbs on the outer sides comprising at least adjacent to the upper and lower sides a spherical shaped surface and/or the horizontal chain links comprising on the transition of the front sections into the longitudinal limbs corner areas, wherein the longitudinal limbs on their top side and bottom side at least in the corner areas are partially provided with a cavity.
US08631927B2 Track with overlapping links for dry coal extrusion pumps
A chain for a particulate material extrusion pump includes a plurality of links, each of the plurality of links having a link body and a link ledge, wherein each link ledge of the plurality of links at least partially overlaps the link body of an adjacent one of the plurality of links.
US08631912B2 Brake caliper
A brake caliper for a disk brake is disclosed. The brake caliper includes a caliper housing defining a bore that extends along a bore axis. A piston of an actuating device is mounted within the bore so as to be movable along the bore axis in an application direction and a return direction. A sealing arrangement is at least partially provided between the piston and the bore. The sealing arrangement includes a sealing ring positioned in a radial groove. A base surface of the groove is formed in the direction of the bore axis and oriented antiparallel with respect to the bore axis such that the groove base surface approaches the bore axis in the application direction.
US08631910B2 Device for collecting a trailing cable
In a device for collecting a trailing cable, particularly of a construction lift, having cable tray comprising an opening through which the trailing cable can be deposited into or guided out from the cable tray, the cable tray has an elongated cross-section and is disposed and configured such that the trailing cable can be deposited in the cable tray in meanders.
US08631907B2 Elevator machine frame
An example elevator machine frame assembly (30) includes a plurality of support plates (32) configured to support at least selected portions of an elevator machine including a traction sheave (24). The support plates each comprise a plurality of mounting surfaces (50) that are aligned within a plane that intersects with an axis of rotation (56) of a traction sheave that is supported by the frame assembly. A plurality of support rods (36) are connected to the support plates (32). The support rods maintain a desired spacing between the plates and a desired alignment of the plates relative to each other. In a disclosed example, the support rods include a sound dampening material (44) such as sand in an interior of the rods.
US08631905B2 Ladder apparatus
The present invention is directed to a ladder apparatus capable of being mounted to a vehicle. The ladder apparatus generally comprises a mounting support, a main ladder support for receiving an extension ladder, and a torsion support. The mounting support, the main ladder support and the torsion support are pivotally connected so that the apparatus can be raised from a retracted home position to an extended position. When the apparatus is in the extended position it can be set to a desired height and/or rotational position.
US08631891B2 Method and apparatus for controlling a hybrid powertrain system
A vehicular powertrain system includes an engine, an electro-mechanical transmission and an electric machine arranged in an input-split hybrid configuration. A control system for the powertrain system includes a control module signally connected to a plurality of input devices and configured to execute program code stored on a computer readable medium to control the powertrain. The program code monitors operator inputs, determines an intent to service the vehicle based upon the operator inputs, commands the electric machine to generate a net torque output of zero, and controls the engine speed correlative to an operator depression of an accelerator pedal.
US08631886B2 Structure of electric vehicle
This disclosure provides a structure of an electric vehicle, which includes an engine, an electric generator for being driven by the engine, a battery for being supplied and charged with generated power at least from the electric generator, and a motor for being supplied with power from the battery to drive driving wheels. The engine, the electric generator, and a power transmission device for transmitting a motive force of the engine to the electric generator are integrally formed to constitute a power generation unit. The power generation unit is arranged inside an engine room so that at least the engine is located rearward from wheel axles of left and right front wheels.
US08631884B2 Pressure reversing valve assembly for a down-the-hole percussive drilling apparatus
A pressure reversing valve for a down-the-hole percussive drilling (“DHD”) apparatus has a first valve pressure surface, a second valve pressure surface and a third valve pressure surface. The first valve pressure surface engages an internal surface of a housing of the DHD hammer. The second valve pressure surface is in communication with a high pressure port of the DHD hammer. The third valve pressure surface is in communication with a passageway that extends through a distributor within the DHD hammer. The valve also includes a valve passageway that extends through the valve and which is in communication with a first volume of the DHD hammer. The first volume is formed by surfaces of the distributor and the third valve pressure surface.
US08631881B2 Inserting and extracting underground sensors
Devices and methods for placing sensors underground are described. A preferred device has a first structure and a second structure that are placed into the ground. A third structure is connected to a portion of the first structure. The second structure is removed from the ground, leaving sensors or other equipment underground.
US08631879B1 Compact floating row cleaner
A floating row cleaner assembly comprising a tool arm row cleaner mount, a row cleaner frame mounting plate, a row cleaner frame pivotally attached to the tool arm row cleaner mount and the row cleaner frame mounting plate. The periphery of the u-shaped row cleaner frame is composed of a combination of angled and curved portions to reduce the length and width of the frame to allow row cleaners to be used in combination with a coulter, or other tillage tool, and planter row unit spacing below 30 inches, while allowing necessary clearance between the row cleaner(s) and the coulter for terrain responsive operation.
US08631877B2 Apparatus and methods for inflow control
A first tubular member disposed within a second tubular member, and an annulus formed therebetween. The second tubular member can have a first and second packer disposed about an outer diameter thereof. The first packer can have a slip. The packers can be in fluid communication with the inner diameter of the first tubular member via one or more flow ports formed through the first tubular member. One or more inflow control devices can be disposed between the packers.
US08631872B2 Complex fracturing using a straddle packer in a horizontal wellbore
A method of inducing fracture complexity within a fracturing interval of a subterranean formation is provided. The method comprises defining a stress anisotropy-altering dimension, providing a straddle-packer assembly to alter a stress anisotropy of a fracturing interval, based on defining the stress anisotropy-altering dimension, isolating a first fracturing interval of the subterranean formation with the straddle-packer assembly, inducing a fracture in the first fracturing interval, isolating a second fracturing interval of the subterranean formation with the straddle-packer assembly, inducing a fracture in the second fracturing interval, wherein fracturing the first and second fracturing intervals alters the stress anisotropy within a third fracturing interval, isolating the third fracturing interval with the straddle-packer assembly, and inducing a fracture in the third fracturing interval. The straddle-packer assembly comprises a first packer, an injection port sub-assembly above the first packer, and a second packer above the injection port sub-assembly.
US08631861B1 Packing unit for reciprocating pump polished rod
A packing unit is provided for use with a well having a reciprocating pump and polished rod. Packing assembly seals, a barrier fluid and a pressure transmitter cooperate with housed components to regulate the pressure on either side of a first packing sub-assembly and to pressure one side of a second packing sub-assembly. The barrier fluid is contained above the first packing sub-assembly and below the second packing sub-assembly with well fluids and accompanying pressures being contained below the first packing sub-assembly, such that, if leakage occurs, relatively clean barrier fluids are leaked instead of well fluids. The well fluids pressure and barrier fluid pressure are substantially balanced across the first packing sub-assembly. The first packing sub-assembly and second packing sub-assembly include components allowing their respective packing seals to move with, and remain sealed against, the polished rod when it deviates angularly or translationally from the initial vertical orientation.
US08631855B2 System for dissipating heat energy
A sustainable system for cooling at least one electronic device, for example a Light Emitting Diode (LED), and preferably a plurality of electronic devices, using at least one heat absorbing material contained within a housing that it is in thermal communication with the electronic devices. The heat absorbing materials may be present individually or in combinations thereof in order to achieve the desired heat absorption effect; the housing may include multiple chambers containing heat absorbing materials or combinations thereof.
US08631854B2 Continuous casting method and apparatus for producing preliminary profiles, in particular double T preliminary profiles
With a continuous casting method for producing preliminary profiles, in particular double T preliminary profiles, the downwardly flowing cooling water is pushed out of the internal curve of the preliminary profile strand (3) via the profile flanges and discharged using water nozzles (21, 22) aligned substantially to the crossover from the bar (4) to the respective flange (5, 6) by means of the diverting water delivered via the water nozzles (21, 22). In this way the excessive cooling caused by downwardly running cooling water is largely avoided in the internal curve of the preliminary profile strand.
US08631852B2 Investment castings and process
An investment casting process is provided in which a molten aluminum metal is cast into a refractory mold and thereafter cooled to solidify the metal in the mold. The improvement includes the step of cooling the mold and solidifying the metal therein which is carried out by placing the mold in a chamber adapted to retain a liquid. The mold is mounted in a stationary condition in the chamber. A coolant liquid is introduced into the chamber to immerse the mold in the liquid while maintaining the mold in a stationary condition.
US08631835B2 System for injecting mortar into a container
A method of injecting mortar into a container fastened to a first tank and to a second tank, the first tank communicating with the container via a first orifice and the second tank communicating with the container by a second orifice, the method comprising the following operations: a continuous circulation of a first stream of mortar is made to flow in a circulation loop; during the continuous circulation, a second stream of mortar is drawn off from the circulation loop, the second stream being smaller than the first stream of mortar; the second stream of mortar is injected into the container, ensuring that there is dynamic confinement of the gaseous effluents; and the appearance of mortar in the second tank is monitored and, when this appearance is detected, the removal of mortar from the circulation loop is brought to an end.
US08631831B2 Multi-compliant tubing
In various embodiments, aspiration tubing connecting a handpiece to a surgical console may include a high compliant section, a transition section, and a low compliant section. In some embodiments, the high compliant section may have a lower durometer and/or different geometry than the low compliant section. The transition section may take a number of forms, including a connector or a continuous section of tubing that gradually increases in durometer and/or changes geometry through the length of the tubing. In the various embodiments, the high compliant section may provide flexibility near the handpiece to make the handpiece easier to hold and maneuver while the low compliant section may reduce the effects of occlusion break surge. In some embodiments, the high compliant section may include, for example, ribs, stiffening rings, a stiffening sleeve, or a stiffening sock to increase the stiffness of the high compliant section.
US08631817B2 Central vacuum inlet valve assembly
A subassembly for use in a vacuum inlet valve assembly for a central vacuum system, the subassembly having a valve body with a wiring compartment and at least one press connection detent means and a reversible mounting flange for connecting to the valve body. The mounting flange includes an attachment portion, a mounting flange wall sized and shaped to cover an open side of wiring compartment and press catch connection elements sized and shaped to interact with the detent to secure the mounting flange to the valve body. Also disclosed is a vacuum inlet valve assembly comprising the above subassembly in combination with a cover plate having a rectangular door, a hinge located on a long side of the rectangular door, and a face plate with a vacuum connection opening. In an alternate embodiment the valve body includes a perimeter wall, attachment openings internal but adjacent to said perimeter wall and a snap fit cover to close an open wall of a wiring compartment.
US08631807B2 Method and apparatus for orthodontic floss aid
A flossing tool for persons wearing braces. A floss support head is attached at an acute angle with respect to a handle. The head includes two spaced-apart support elements where the first support element closest to the handle is thinner than the distance between the teeth and the arch-wire. A disposable plastic embodiment includes a floss strand affixed in an injection molding process to ends of the support elements; a tapered portion of the first support element which allows the device to pivot without interference from the arch-wire; and a broadened spatula tip for securing an end of the floss strand. The end of the first support element may be curved outwardly. Another embodiment includes a wire head with floss support loops.
US08631801B2 Pressure regulating systems for expandable insertion devices
Earpieces and expandable insertion devices are provided. An earpiece includes an ambient sound microphone (ASM); an ear canal microphone (ECM); an ear canal receiver (ECR); and an inflatable sealing section. The sealing section includes at least one pressure valve. The at least one pressure valve opens when the pressure in the sealing section is greater than an ambient pressure.
US08631799B2 Respiratory therapy system including a nasal cannula assembly
A nasal cannula for supplying a respiratory gas to a patient and a method of treating a patient with sleep disorder. The nasal cannula comprises a pair of spaced apart supply lines which each have a head at one end thereof with a discharge opening located therein. The opposite end of each supply line is connectable to a high flow respiratory gas source. Each head is sized to be snugly received and retained within one of the nasal cavities of the patient while forming a sufficient leakage passage, between a portion of inwardly facing nasal cavity skin of a patient and a portion of an exterior surface of the head, to facilitate exhausting of any excess respiratory gas supplied to the patient through the leakage passage and also facilitate inhalation of any room air required in excess of the respiratory gas to be supplied to the patient.
US08631791B2 Apparatus and methods for administration of positive airway pressure therapies
The present invention provides an apparatus and methods for the administration of positive airway pressure therapies. The apparatus can include a housing, a blower and a mask. The housing is configured to be stably secured on the head of a patient. The blower is secured relative to the housing. A mask in fluid communication with the blower is configured to communicate pressurized air produced at least in part by the blower to the airways of a user.
US08631788B2 Artificial gills for deep diving without incurring the bends and for scavenging O2 from and dispelling CO2 into water or thin air
The invention provides a system whereby oxygen can be derived from seawater or from thin air at higher altitudes while simultaneously eliminating carbon dioxide from the blood. This allows prolonged underwater liquid breathing at greater depths without suffering from the bends or, alternatively, the ability of workers to breathe underwater or at high altitudes without having to rely upon air tanks or the like. The artificial gill comprises a plurality of concatenated modules each containing a semi-permeable membrane operative to transfer oxygen in a first direction and carbon dioxide in a second direction across the membrane. By providing multiple concatenated interconnected modules, oxygen becomes concentrated to allow breathing thereof. Because the system is connected in series with a person's blood supply, CO2 produced in the body is extracted and disposed of via the artificial gill. The semipermeable membrane preferably comprises a plurality of tubular fibers, each with a relatively large lumen when compared to present day blood oxygenators arranged as a bundle in a housing such that seawater or rarefied air passes over the exterior surfaces of the fibers while blood or Hgb flows through the lumens. The larger diameter fibers reduce hemolysis and clotting.
US08631786B2 Method, systems and sensor for detecting humidity
Methods systems and device for detecting humidity in air through use of an ammonia sensor included in the exhaust of an engine, such as a diesel engine are provided. In one example, a method for an engine having an exhaust with an ammonia sensor includes adjusting an operating parameter in response to ambient humidity, the ambient humidity based on a first ammonia sensor reading at a first exhaust air-fuel-ratio and a second ammonia sensor reading at a second exhaust air-fuel-ratio.
US08631785B2 Method for detecting deviations of injection quantities and for correcting the injection quantity, and injection system
A method provides for detecting deviations of injection quantities for injections into internal combustion engines, as carried out for example by common-rail systems. At least one deviation of at least one injection quantity is detected by determining at least one deviation, from a predefined value in each case, of at least one value of at least one variable controlling an actuator of the injector and/or indicating at least one state of the actuator.
US08631776B2 Assembled camshaft
An assembled camshaft includes an outer hollow camshaft body and an inner camshaft body disposed within the outer hollow camshaft body and mounted so as to rotate relative to it by a predetermined angle. The camshaft also includes at least two separate cam elements. A first cam element is connected with the inner camshaft body so as to rotate with it, and is disposed so as to rotate relative to the outer hollow camshaft body. A second cam element has at least two partial cam elements, in such a manner that a first partial cam element is disposed on the outer hollow camshaft body, so as to rotate with it, and a second partial cam element is connected with the inner camshaft body, so as to rotate with it, and is disposed so that it can be rotated relative to the outer hollow camshaft body.
US08631774B2 Valve timing control apparatus and valve timing control mechanism
A valve timing control apparatus includes a partitioning portion in a driven-side rotary member for partitioning the fluid pressure chamber into an advance angle chamber and a retard angle chamber, a restricting member in the driven-side rotary member and projectable and retractable relative to a driving-side rotary member, a restricting recess in the driving-side rotary member and restricting a relative rotational phase to a predetermined range in association with projection of the restricting member therein, a locking member disposed in the driven-side rotary member and projectable and retractable relative to the driving-side rotary member, a locking recess formed in the driving-side rotary member and locking the relative rotational phase to the predetermined phase in association with projection of the locking member therein, a communication passage formed between the restricting member and the locking member, and an urging passage for feeding fluid for projecting the restricting member into the restricting recess.
US08631767B1 Livestock grooming
An apparatus and associated method for a livestock grooming device having a first canister containing a first blower that selectively imparts an airflow through an outlet of the first canister, and further having a second canister containing a second blower that selectively imparts another airflow through an outlet of the second canister. A manifold fluidly connects both outlets to a manifold outlet. A backflow preventer device between the second blower and the manifold outlet selectively prevents the airflow from the first canister from entering the outlet of the second canister.
US08631757B2 Solution deposition assembly
Methods and devices are provided for improved deposition systems. In one embodiment of the present invention, a deposition system is provided for use with a solution and a substrate. The system comprises of a solution deposition apparatus; at least one heating chamber; at least one assembly for holding a solution over the substrate; and a substrate curling apparatus for curling at least one edge of the substrate to define a zone capable of containing a volume of the solution over the substrate. In another embodiment of the present invention, a deposition system for use with a substrate, the system comprising a solution deposition apparatus; at heating chamber; and at least assembly for holding solution over the substrate to allow for a depth of at least about 0.5 microns to 10 mm.
US08631754B1 Articulating base water sports tower
A water sports tower is pivotably attached to a watercraft through an articulating base structure. A joint is supplied joining lower ends of uprights of the tower to gunwales of the watercraft. The joints are configured to join each of the lower ends of the uprights through the joint to the gunwale. The joint includes a follower element opposite a reference element with the reference fixed to the gunwale of the watercraft and the follower element fixed to the lower ends of the uprights of the tower. A pair of links, including a short link and a long link, join portions of the reference and portions of the follower. A driver is preferably provided between at least two of the elements of the joint, such as between the follower and the reference. The driver can supply an additional force to assist in raising and lowering of the tower relative to the watercraft.
US08631750B2 Sewing machine
A sewing machine includes a needle bar, a needle bar base, a base frame, a guide member, and a fixing member. A sewing needle is attachable to a lower end portion of the needle bar. The needle bar base is configured to support the needle bar to allow the needle bar to be moved in an up-down direction. A first engagement portion is provided to a lower end portion of the needle bar base. The base frame is configured to swingably support an upper end portion of the needle bar base. A second engagement portion is provided to a lower end portion the base frame. A guide member includes a third engagement portion configured to engage with the first engagement portion and guide movement of the first engagement portion in a predetermined direction and a fourth engagement portion configured to engage with the second engagement portion.
US08631748B2 Intra-cassette security device for banking equipment
A banking equipment intra-cassette security device (1) being assembled under the lid (T) of a cassette (C) storing money bills (A). The device (1) includes a main block (2) equipped with cavities (3) filled with pyrotechnical material (5), which can be ignited by a wick (9) which is activated by a metallic filament (11) electrically powered by the cassette (C) circuit.
US08631746B2 Rail car cover system
A rail car cover system that includes a rail car, a first cover section and a second cover section. The rail car has an opening. The first cover section is operably attached to the rail car. The first cover section includes a first closure mechanism. The second cover section is operably attached to the rail car. The second cover section includes a second closure mechanism. The first cover section and the second cover section are both movable between a closed configuration and an open configuration. When in the closed configuration, the first closure mechanism engages the second closure mechanism to maintain the first cover section and the second cover section in the closed configuration.
US08631745B2 Method and apparatus for tensioning a cable
A method for tensioning a cable uses a tensioning installation comprising a pulley over which the cable passes, a support trolley for the mobile pulley, on a guide rail and one or several linear actuators to move the trolley. The method allows for coupling an actuator, in a first position between a first support point fixed relative to the rail and a second support point fixed relative to the trolley such that the trolley moves on a first segment of the rail and the actuator is controlled as a function of the set tension of the cable decoupling the actuator from its first position; and coupling an actuator, in a second position between a third support point fixed relative to the rail and a fourth support point fixed relative to the trolley, at least one of the third support point or the fourth support point being distinct from the first support point and the second support point such that the trolley moves on a second segment of the rail and the actuator is controlled as a function of the set tension of the cable. A cable tensioning installation and a cable transport installation are described.
US08631733B2 Miter saw
A miter saw is provided with a base unit on which target material is placed, a table unit rotatably provided on the base unit, a swing unit for swinging up and down above the table unit, and a cutting unit provided on the swing unit and having a flat motor provided with a rotor having an output shaft and a coil disc provided with a plurality of coil pieces arranged in the circumferential direction about the output shaft when seen in the direction of the axis of the output shaft and a stator having a magnet arranged such that magnetic flux passes through the coil disc in the direction of the axis of the output shaft, and a rotating blade rotation shaft on which a rotating blade can be mounted and positioned substantially parallel to the direction of the axis of the output shaft of the flat motor, and a power transfer unit that transfers the power of the flat motor to the rotating blade.
US08631718B2 Caulking coupling device, switch and transmission switch
A punch includes a first caulking surface and a second caulking surface caulking margins of which axially differ in depth and sequentially formed in a peripheral direction, and includes a regulating surface opposing an outer peripheral surface of a caulking process portion to the first caulking surface of the first and second caulking surfaces, which has a deeper caulking margin, wherein the regulating surface regulates radial fillet movement by caulking of the caulking process portion to promote the fillet movement to the second caulking surface of the first and second caulking surfaces, which has a less deep caulking margin.
US08631716B2 Connection of an accessory to a vessel
A device for connecting to a vessel an accessory has an active portion that includes a first, second and third member and a chamber. The first member ensures rigid attachment of the device to the vessel, defines a passageway, acts as a holder for the second member and as a translation guide between a first distal state and a second proximal state, contributes as a guide for the third member and participates in defining the chamber. The second member acts as a holder for the third member rigidly attached thereon, defines a mobile member capable of sliding between the first distal state and the second proximal state. The third member includes a head, and acts as a holder for the accessory rigidly attached thereon, defines a mobile member capable of sliding between the first distal state and the second proximal state, ensures in the first distal state the tight closing of the opening using the head, ensures in the second proximal state a protection of the active proximal portion using the head, and participates in defining the chamber.
US08631715B2 Method for quantitative transfer of analytes
A method for transferring a quantity of analytes comprising at least stages of: predisposing a substantially homogeneous mixture of a predetermined initial quantity of at least an analyte and a liquid, obtaining a known concentration value or known amount of the analyte in the mixture; introducing into the mixture at least a collecting portion (3) of a sampling device (1) having a support body (2), the collecting portion (3) comprising a plurality of fibers (6) attached to and arranged on a first portion (2a) of the support body (2) by means of flocking, in order to define a flocked collecting portion (3) or a flocked tampon, such as to collect a part of the mixture on the collecting portion (3); and extracting the collecting portion (3) of the sampling device (1) of the mixture, retaining on the sampling portion (3) a predetermined known quantity of the mixture to be transferred.
US08631702B2 Hemitoroidal resonator gyroscope
One exemplary embodiment is directed to a vibratory structure gyroscope having a substrate having a top surface. The vibratory structure gyroscope can also include a resonator having a hemitoroidal shape, the resonator including a stem and an outer lip that surrounds the stem, the stem attached to the top surface of the substrate and the outer lip located apart from the top surface to allow the resonator to vibrate.
US08631697B2 Measuring device, container and system for monitoring and managing a container
A measuring device for detecting a filling status of a containing cavity suitable for containing non-homogenous objects of various nature includes a capacitive device that is positionable near the containing cavity and configured for detecting a variation in electric capacity caused by the presence of the objects so as to determine the filling status. A container is provided with the measuring device. A system is provided including the measuring device and a station configured for receiving and processing data provided by the measuring device, the system being configured for managing and monitoring the filling status and planning intervention activities on the containing cavity. The system is used for monitoring and managing urban waste.
US08631691B2 Abnormality detection device for EGR device
An abnormality detection device for detecting abnormalities in an EGR device for an internal combustion engine with a supercharger. The abnormality detection device includes an O2 sensor which is installed in an EGR path and disposed on the exhaust path side relative to the EGR valve, and an A/F sensor which is installed in the exhaust path and disposed downstream of a connecting portion between the exhaust path and the EGR path.
US08631690B2 Exhaust treatment methods and systems
A control method for monitoring a selective catalytic reduction (“SCR”) device is provided. A control method includes adjusting an existing efficiency threshold based on a dosing adaptation value to determine an efficiency threshold. The dosing adaptation value represents an adjusted value of a supply of reductant based on a determined deviation of a downstream NOx concentration value to an expected NOx concentration. The control method includes comparing the efficiency threshold with a determined efficiency of the SCR device. The control method includes generating a message based on comparing the efficiency threshold with the determined efficiency of the SCR device.
US08631680B2 Method for the calibration of a flow measurement in a flow system, and flow system for carrying out the method
A flow rate of a fluid in a flow system is determined based on one or more parameters of the flow system, the parameters not including the flow rate itself. The flow rate is also measured with a calibration sensor, and the measured flow rate is used to calibrate how the flow rate is determined.
US08631671B2 Internal mandrel and method
A method and system for forming a part from a workpiece including a hollow portion, using a mandrel and a conventional press such as a stamping press includes filling the hollow portion of the workpiece with a mandrel material and transforming the mandrel material to form a mandrel. The mandrel material is removable from the formed part and may be recycled to form a mandrel for another workpiece.
US08631658B2 Method and system for enhancing power output of renewable thermal cycle power plants
A steam reheat process is provided to enhance a thermal power cycle, and particularly a renewable steam thermal cycle. An oxyfuel combustion gas generator is provided which combusts a hydrogen and/or carbon containing fuel with an oxidizer of primarily oxygen to generate products of combustion including steam and/or carbon dioxide. Water from the thermal cycle is directed to the reheater for mixing with the products of combustion within the reheater to generate a working fluid containing steam. This steam is routed through a turbine or other expander and power is outputted from the system. The water is optionally thereafter condensed and at least partially routed back to the thermal cycle. Any carbon dioxide within the working fluid can be separated in a condenser downstream of the expander for capture of the carbon dioxide, such that increased power output for the thermal power cycle is achieved without atmospheric emissions.
US08631651B2 Hydraulic system thermal contraction compensation apparatus and method
An apparatus for compensating for fluid contraction in a hydraulic powered telescoping boom may include a monitor determining the elevation angle of the telescoping boom, a supply of hydraulic fluid, and a fluid control responsive to the monitor. The fluid control provides the hydraulic fluid from the supply to a hydraulic cylinder controlling extension of the telescoping boom when the elevation angle exceeds a predetermined threshold angle to compensate for thermal contraction of hydraulic fluid and thus prevent uncommanded boom retraction. A method in accordance with the invention is also disclosed.
US08631650B2 Hydraulic system and method for control
A hydraulic system is disclosed having at least two hydraulic circuits. The disclosed system apportions flow between the two hydraulic circuits based on an assumed flow rate that is held constant in both power-limited and non-power-limited conditions.
US08631648B2 Diesel turbine SCR catalyst
A system for treating exhaust gases from an engine is described. The system includes, the exhaust gases routed from the engine to atmosphere through an exhaust passage, the system comprising: an injector directing a spray of reductant into the exhaust gases routed from the engine to atmosphere; an exhaust separation passage that separates an exhaust gas flow received from the engine into a plurality of separate exhaust gas flows; a plurality of oxidation catalysts, each of which receives one of the plurality of separate exhaust gas flows; a flow combining passage that receives the plurality of separate exhaust gas flows and combines them into a re-combined exhaust gas flow; a turbocharger that receives the re-combined exhaust gas flow from the flow combining passage; and a selective catalytic reduction catalyst positioned downstream of the turbocharger.
US08631645B2 Thermal management systems for efficient lean operating engines
A thermal management system includes a catalytic converter module that determines whether a catalytic converter is active. A selective catalytic reduction (SCR) catalyst module determines whether a SCR catalyst is active. An engine control module adjusts an air and fuel ratio of an engine to operate at a stoichiometric ratio and retards spark of the engine when the catalytic converter is not active. The engine control module at least one of performs post fuel injection and directly injects fuel into an exhaust system of the engine when the catalytic converter is active and the SCR catalyst is not active.
US08631638B2 Method, system and apparatus for providing water to a heat engine via a dammed water source
A method, system and apparatus are provided that provide water to a heat engine via a dammed water source. The water may be tapped for cooling of and/or injection into a heat engine. Further, steam from operation of the heat engine and/or directing exhaust gases of a heat engine into a water flow in an exit channel may be collected and harnessed for power generation in a steam-driven power generator, for industrial heating purposes and other industrial uses, and/or for cooling and subsequent use as potentially more pure water. Additionally, water mist may be sprayed into the exhaust gases for sound suppression purposes.
US08631633B2 Method for sealing a continuous tubular package and a group actuating the method
A method is described for sealing a continuous tubular packaging (20), which is fed in a vertical direction, the continuous tubular packaging (20) being shaped as a continuous tubular element (20) exhibiting with a closed bottom (5), in which products are contained, and a group (1) for actuating the method. The group (1) comprises: sealing means (4), configured such as to act in a transversal direction with respect to the continuous tubular packaging (20) in order to separate an inner volume thereof, such that a closed stick pack (2), containing said products, and a new closed bottom (5) are formed; and compression means (8, 9) arranged downstream of the sealing means (4) with respect to the feeding direction (W) of the continuous tubular packaging (20), which are configured such as to compress the continuous tubular packaging (20), consequently eliminating air fluid contained therein, and which are activatable prior to sealing the continuous tubular packaging (20) with the sealing means (4). The method comprises steps of: sealing the continuous tubular packaging (20) in order to separate the internal volume thereof, thus forming a closed stick pack (2), containing the products, and a new closed bottom (5); and compressing the continuous tubular packaging (20), with a consequent evacuation of air fluid contained internally thereof, before sealing the continuous tubular packaging (20).
US08631630B2 Closure head for container closure machines and container closure machine
The invention relates to a closure head for container closure machines (1) for closing bottles or similar containers with closures, having a head part, having a receptacle formed on a head part and open on the bottom of the closure head and the head part for one closure each, wherein the receptacle forms at least one radial and at least one axial contact surface relative to an axis of the receptacle for the closure received in the receptacle, and wherein the radial contact surface for at least force-fit retaining of the closure in the receptacle is formed of at least one displaceable segment displaceable at least radially to the axis of the receptacle at least in the area of the radial contact surface.
US08631629B1 Roof mounting assembly
A mounting system for a roof-mounted structure comprises: a roof having a surface; a shaft having a first end opposing a second end, and including a roof fastening portion at the first end and secured within the roof, an anchor portion for securing the roof-mounted structure at the second end, a drive part and a radially projecting shoulder surface oriented toward the roof fastening portion; and a washer positioned on the surface of the roof and disposed on the shaft such that the shoulder surface urges the washer into watertight sealing contact with the surface of the roof.
US08631622B2 Non-squeaking wood flooring systems and methods
Wood-based flooring systems with click-type interlocking joint systems include a protective film system covering the contact surfaces of the click system. The protective film system includes one or more sheets of a material with low moisture transmissivity and a low coefficient of friction. In this way, the contact surfaces of the click system are protected against undue humidity absorption and frictional rubbing to thereby avoid squeaking after installation. In some embodiments there are four film sheets covering the entirety of all four click surfaces, in others there is one film sheet covering the entirety of all four click surfaces, in others there is film covering the entirety of only the two longitudinal click surfaces, in others there is film covering the entirety of only the two tongue click surfaces, and in others there is film covering only the contact surfaces of the click surfaces.
US08631621B2 Panel and fastening system for such panel
A fastening system for floor panels, which has profiles on small faces of the panels. Opposite retaining profiles match so that similar panels can be interlinked. The panels have opposite first retaining profiles configured so on a panel in first line, a new panel can be locked in second line by attaching the new panel to the installed panel at an angle relative to the installed panel and then swiveling it down into the plane of the installed panel. The panel has opposite second retaining elements that have corresponding hook elements. A hook connection can be established by a hook element of the new panel and hook element of a panel already installed in second line by swiveling the new panel. Every hook connection is associated with an additional locking element that prevents the release of the hook connection in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the installed panels.
US08631617B2 Wall panel system
A wall paneling system including at least one finish wall panel configured to prevent moisture from entering an interior of the wall panel and having a finish with a predetermined finished characteristic thereon and a drainage system configured to remove moisture directed into the drainage system by the at least one wall panel.
US08631601B2 Automatic or semiautomatic rifle with folding clamshell buttstock
An automatic or semiautomatic blackrifle type rifle having a receiver and a bolt carrier movably coupled to the receiver. An action system is connected to the bolt carrier for cycling the bolt carrier in the receiver. A folding butt stock is connected to the receiver, the folding butt stock being both foldable and collapsible.
US08631595B2 Excavating apparatus with swivel mount employing swivel adapter with gear bearings having gears with divergent thickness
A swivel adapter mount can be mounted on the end of a boom of excavating equipment, such as a crawler excavator or on a backhoe. Rotation of the swivel adapter mount will impart rotation to an implement, such as bucket, mounted on the boom. This rotation is not possible with a conventional wrist joint on the boom of an excavator or backhoe. With the bucket swiveled using this swivel adapter mount, a slope may be defined on the sides of a ditch, by only using the backhoe or excavator. The implement can be swiveled or tilted about transverse axes as will as being manipulated by a conventional wrist joint. Gear bearings having gear teeth of divergent thickness are employed on the swivel adapter.
US08631594B1 Variable width screed attachment
An improved variable width screed device that attaches to an industrial vehicle, such as an excavator, having a push blade and controlled arm mechanism. The position of the controlled arm mechanism determines the width of the screed. The screed width can be instantaneously adjusted along a spectrum of widths by modifying the radial position of the controlled arm mechanism.
US08631593B1 Snow removal device
A manually driven, skid mounted removal device for clearing accumulated snow has a structural member with a generally “U” shaped handle. A handle first end is located on a first anterior vertical support middle. A handle second end is located on a second anterior vertical support middle. The handle is located at an angle between 0 and 90 degrees with respect to a ground surface. The device has a generally wedge shaped blade located on a top of the structural member.
US08631587B2 Impact-attenuation members with lateral and shear force stability and products containing such members
Impact-attenuation members include: (a) an impact-attenuating member and (b) a shear resistant member engaged with the impact-attenuating member. Another example impact-attenuation member includes a shear resistant member having a continuous wall that bulges outward on opposing sides when in an uncompressed base orientation. The shear resistant members may be structured and arranged to allow bending or compression against impact forces in one direction (e.g., when landing a step or a jump), but remain highly stable against shear or lateral forces in another direction (e.g., in a side-to-side direction). Such impact-attenuation members may be used in footwear products, including in athletic footwear.
US08631559B2 Method of assembling induction rotors
A method of assembling an induction rotor includes inserting a plurality of conductor bars into a stack of disks, placing first and second end rings onto respective axial ends of the stack, thereby inserting ends of the conductor bars into corresponding slots in the respective end rings, compressing the slots against the conductor bars by impacting the end rings, and applying an electric current through the end rings and conductor bars. The compressing and the applying of current bond end rings and conductor bars together by simultaneous mechanical and electrical heat.
US08631548B2 Method for producing crystallographically oriented ceramic
A method for producing a piezoelectric/electrostrictive body containing a crystallographically oriented ceramic including a particle-preparing step of preparing pseudocubic particles having substantially a cubic shape; a dispersing step of dispersing the pseudocubic particles in a solvent; a particle section-forming step of forming a seed section and a matrix section directly or indirectly on a base, the seed section being formed by arranging the dispersed pseudocubic particles in a predetermined plane direction, the matrix section being formed from matrix particles having a desired composition; and a firing step of firing the seed section and matrix section formed on the base.
US08631544B1 Cable clamp strap
A device for handling or storing one or more items including a first jaw having a ratcheting engagement member, a second jaw having a ratcheting engagement member, a pivot rotatably connecting the first jaw and the second jaw, a strap proximate the pivot, and wherein manipulating the strap imparts movement on the pivot.
US08631543B2 Zipper pre-gather device
A zipper pre-gather device which is operable for providing proper alignment of two sides of a zipper tape prior to being fed through a slider, thereby preventing the slider from becoming unintentionally engaged with sections of the foldable, stowable roof or parts of the foldable window. The zipper pre-gather device incudes a slider pivotally attached to a pre-gather device. The pre-gather device has two entrances, one for receiving each side of the zipper tape, which are operable with two exits. The entrances of the pre-gather device are of a large width and height in relation to the exits, and are operable for providing proper alignment between two sides of a zipper tape, prior to the two sides of the zipper tape being fed into the slider.
US08631539B2 Accessory wand storage assembly for use with vacuum appliances, and vacuums using the same
A vacuum extension wand accessory storage assembly for use with a wet/dry vacuum that improves user access to the wands while simultaneously preventing accidental loss or dislodgement of the wands when the vacuum is not in use. The wand storage design includes the combination of a channeled, shaped surface formed in the bottom of the vacuum collection drum and an accessory attachment system on the bottom of the vacuum appliance having both front and rear securement assemblies which in combination secure the extension wands in place below the collection drum of the vacuum appliance in the event of vacuum transportation, lifting, or storage.
US08631514B2 Protective element for sports pads and the like
An impact resistant insert for a protective pad and having a stiffener layer of impact resistant, thermoformable material retaining a preset curve at ambient temperature such as to substantially return to the preset curve upon deformation, the stiffener layer becoming temporarily more flexible under heat such that the preset curve can be modified to a different preset curve with the stiffener layer subsequently maintaining the different preset curve at ambient temperature. Also, an impact resistant insert for a protective pad and having a front layer of flexible material, a stiffener layer of multicell material having front and rear surfaces with the front surface being connected to the front layer, the stiffener layer being substantially resistant to impact forces, retaining a preset curve and substantially returning to the preset curve upon deformation, and a rear layer of flexible material connected to the rear surface of the stiffener layer.
US08631513B1 Disposable and reusable germ screen
Screen covers, devices, systems and methods of using the covers. The screen cover can have dome shaped front configuration and capital A rear side configuration that can be formed from a pliable material having a waterproof coated surface. The screen cover can have a closed front side, closed top, closed sides and an elastic band across the back having openings above and below the band. The screen cover can be disposable or reusable. Methods of using and removing the screen cover include removing the cover without contaminating the other hand that removes the cover.
US08635705B2 Computer system and method with anti-malware
In some embodiments, approaches may provide an out-of-band (OOB) agent to protect a platform. The OOB agent may be able to use non-TRS methods to measure and protect an in-band security agent. In some embodiments, a manageability engine can provide out of band connectivity to the in-band and out-of-band security agents and provide access to the system memory resources without having to rely on OS services. This can be used for a trusted anti-malware and remediation service.
US08635703B1 Performance benchmarking for simulated phishing attacks
Described herein are methods, network devices and machine-readable media for conducting a simulated phishing attack on a first group of individuals, and performing an analysis of the group's performance to the simulated attack. In the analysis, an aggregate performance of the first group is compared with an aggregate performance of individuals from a second group. Standardizing the simulated phishing attacks for individuals from both the first and second groups is necessary in order for the performance of the first group to be fairly or meaningfully compared to the performance of the second group. To ensure uniformity in the simulated phishing attacks, messages thereof may be constructed from template messages, the template messages having placeholders for individual-specific and company-specific information.
US08635701B2 Secure browser-based applications
Techniques are provided for execution of restricted operations by computer program code in web browsers, where the code is permitted to invoke restricted operations if implicit or explicit consent is received. Such techniques may include generating a risk rating for a computer program code component, where the component includes at least one component operation for executing at least one restricted system operation; and prompting a user for permission to execute the restricted system operation, wherein the prompt includes the risk rating and a description of the component operation. The program code may include script code associated with a web page that invokes a web browser plugin, which in turn invokes the restricted system operation. The code may invoke the restricted system operation in response to receiving an input from a user via the web browser, where the input is for causing an action associated with performing the operation, the action implicitly granting consent to perform the operation.
US08635698B2 Antivirus system and method for removable media devices
A removable media device, which may be a USB attached device or other type of removable media device, includes a software program located on the device which upon startup or access, the software program scans one or more of electronic files stored on the removable media device and electronic files being transferred to or from the electronic media device and to or from a host computing system for the detection of viruses therein. The software program is further configured to block the transfer of detected virus-containing electronic files and to disallow the copy or writing of files to or from the removable media device to or from a host computing system that can not be scanned. The software program is further configured to block the encryption of files being written to a removable media device if such device contains hardware or software encryption if such files can not be scanned.
US08635695B2 Multi-method gateway-based network security systems and methods
Systems and methods for detecting and preventing network security breaches are described. The systems and methods present a gateway-based packet-forwarding network security solution to not only detect security breaches but also prevent them by directly dropping suspicious packets and connections. The systems and methods employ multiple techniques to detect and prevent network security breaches, including stateful signature detection, traffic signature detection, and protocol anomaly detection.
US08635691B2 Sensitive data scanner
A method and system of scanning a client for sensitive data. A server may receive, from the client, a request to scan the data stored in the data storage of the client for sensitive data. In response to receiving the request, the server may provide the client with a scanner, which causes the client to carry out functions including: (a) scanning the data stored in data storage to identify sensitive data; (b) collecting data based on the identified sensitive data; and (c) reporting the collected data. The server may then receive the collected data from the client and responsively analyze the data. The server may also provide feedback about the identified sensitive data to the client or another server.
US08635690B2 Reputation based message processing
Methods and systems for processing electronic communications based upon reputation. Reputation of an entity associated with the electronic communication can be generated. The communication can be placed in a queue based upon the reputation. The queued communication can be processed based upon updated information about the entity.
US08635683B2 Method to improve fraud detection on conference calling systems by detecting re-use of conference moderator passwords
An embodiment of the invention provides a method for detecting fraudulent use of a moderator passcode in a conference calling system. The method sets a threshold number of moderator passcodes permitted in a conference call. The total number of moderator passcodes entered into the conference call is determined and compared to the threshold number with a processor. The conference call is allowed to continue if the threshold number exceeds the total number of moderator passcodes entered into the conference call. If, however, the total number of moderator passcodes exceeds the threshold number of moderator passcodes, the processor performs validation actions and/or alert actions.
US08635659B2 Audio receiver modular card and method thereof
A television and a method are provided. The television includes a display, a first network interface to a packet-based network, a first modular card receptacle coupled to the first network interface, and an audio receiver modular card coupled to the first modular card receptacle, the audio receiver modular card to process audio data, wherein the television is operable to display video content on the display promptly upon receipt of a user request.
US08635658B2 Broadcast social and media navigation system
Methods for providing access to third-party content related to a television program of interest to a user via a single user interface. When a user schedules a recording of a television program, the metadata associated with the television program is obtained. At least one broadcast network content provider and at least one non-broadcast network content provider are queried for content relevant to the metadata. Content received from the at least one broadcast network content provider and the at least one non-broadcast network content provider is aggregated by type of media and stored. A navigation strip is rendered providing access to the recorded television program and the content received from the at least one broadcast network content provider and the at least one non-broadcast network content provider.
US08635654B2 Wireless audio distribution system and method for an in-flight entertainment system
A wireless communication system for a vehicle includes a seat or overhead video display unit, a control and audio unit that is associated with and located remotely with respect to the video display unit, a first wireless transceiver associated with the video display unit, a second wireless transceiver associated with the control and audio unit, where the first and second wireless transceivers are linked together for communication. The video display unit receives audiovisual content and splits audio content for transmission to the control unit. The control unit can similarly transmit control and selection information to the video display unit.
US08635648B1 Information descriptor and extended information descriptor data structures for digital television signals
According to an aspect, there is provided a digital television (DTV) data stream including program and system information protocol (PSIP) data associated with content of the DTV data stream, the PSIP data including a virtual channel table (VCT) and an event information table (EIT), the EIT comprising: a source identification field identifying a source of an associated event in a DTV data stream; an event identification field indicating an identification of the event; a start time field indicating a star time of the event; a title field indicating a title of the event; and a descriptor comprising: a descriptor tag identifying the descriptor as a genre descriptor, a descriptor length indicating a total length of the descriptor; and at least one category code for an associated event in a DTV data stream, each category code specifying genre, program type, or category information of the associated event, wherein the at least one category code specifies at least one of a set of basic categories.
US08635647B2 Program guide apparatus
A method acquires program guide information in an image signal receiver, and program guide method and apparatus using the same. In the program guide apparatus, information immediately required by a user is obtained first, and information of less preferential channels is obtained next, thus presenting a smooth interface to the user. The method of acquiring program guide information for channels includes acquiring the program guide information for each channel by scanning accessible channels while a received program is not displayed. The program guide apparatus includes a tuner tuning a channel, a program guide information detector, a memory, a key input, a microprocessor, and a character signal generator.
US08635639B1 Identifying an end of a television program
A system, computer-readable storage medium storing at least one program, and a computer-implemented method for identifying an end of a television program is described. During a scheduled presentation of a television program, a determination is made that the television program is within a predetermined time interval including a time when the television program is scheduled to end. Subtitles for the television program are monitored during the predetermined time interval. When a sequence of strings in the subtitles corresponds to a known sequence of strings in an aggregation of subtitles indicating that the television program has ended, at least one client device is notified that the television program has ended.
US08635637B2 User interface presenting an animated avatar performing a media reaction
This document describes techniques and apparatuses enabling a user interface for presenting a media reaction. The techniques receive media reactions of a person to a media program, such as the person laughing at one point of a comedy show, then smiling at another point, and then departing at a third point. The techniques may present these and other media reactions in a user interface through which a user may interact.
US08635636B2 Optical recording apparatus with limiting members for the flexible cable
An optical recording apparatus includes a traverse, a control circuit board, a shield substrate and an flexible flat cable (FFC). The traverse includes a spindle motor for rotating an optical disc and an optical pickup head for reading and/or writing the optical disc, the optical pickup head moves along a radial direction of the optical disc when reading and/or writing the optical disc. The FFC electrically connects the optical pickup head and the control circuit board and transmits signals between them, and a portion of the FFC adjacent to the second end is bent to facing the shield substrate. The shield substrate includes at least two limiting members, and the at least two limiting members are positioned at two opposite sides of the portion of the FFC facing the shield substrate to enable the portion of the FFC facing the shield substrate to move along the first direction.
US08635635B2 Factoring middleware for anti-piracy
Embodiments are disclosed that relate to hindering unauthorized use or distribution of a middleware program contained within an application. One example embodiment provides a method for hindering unauthorized use or distribution of a middleware program contained within an application. The method comprises acquiring factored middleware code, the factored middleware code having a missing function residing on a remote computing device, and building an application around the factored middleware code such that the application is configured to call to the remote computing device for execution of the missing function during use. The application may be configured to send a call to the remote computing device for execution of the missing function during use.
US08635633B2 Image forming apparatus, function adding method, and computer-readable recording medium
An image forming apparatus includes an application platform including at least one interface having an implementation that is blank, and an applying part configured to apply at least one additional program, capable of being dynamically added to another program, to the interface.
US08635631B2 System and method for consolidated information handling system component drivers
An information handling system which includes plural processing components operable to process information wherein at least one processing component has plural region-specific modes of operation, a driver package associated with the at least one processing component wherein the driver package has plural region-specific drivers, and an encrypted key stored on a processing component wherein the encrypted key designates one of the plural region-specific drivers to manage the processing component.
US08635627B2 Method, medium and apparatus storing and restoring register context for fast context switching between tasks
A method, medium and apparatus for storing and restoring a register context for a fast context switching between tasks is disclosed. The method, medium and apparatus may improve overall operating speed of a system by increasing the speed of context switching. The method may include adding an update code for updating information of live registers to a task file that includes a code of a task to perform a specified function, converting the task file having the update code added thereto into a run file, updating the information of the live registers with the update code during running of the task using the run file, and storing a live register context according to the updated information of the registers.
US08635626B2 Memory-aware scheduling for NUMA architectures
A topology reader may determine a topology of a Non-Uniform Memory Access (NUMA) architecture including a number of, and connections between, a plurality of sockets, each socket including one or more cores and at least one memory configured to execute a plurality of threads of a software application. A core list generator may generate, for each designated core of the NUMA architecture, and based on the topology, a proximity list listing non-designated cores in an order corresponding to a proximity of the non-designated cores to the designated core. A core selector may determine, at a target core and during the execution of the plurality of threads, that the target core is executing an insufficient number of the plurality of threads, and may select a source core at the target core, according to the proximity list associated therewith, for subsequent transfer of a transferred thread from the selected source core to the target core for execution thereon.
US08635623B2 Multi-layer print workflow architecture job ticket generation utilizing user selectable real-time device capabilities
A multi-layer workflow architecture for a print shop is disclosed. The workflow architecture includes a workflow front end, service bus, and service providers. The workflow front end provides an interface to print shop operators. The service providers are each associated with a device in the print shop. The service bus represents the layer between the workflow front end and the service providers. In operation, the service providers report device capabilities for devices to the service bus. The workflow front end receives the device capabilities from the service bus, and provides the device capabilities to a user to allow the user to define a job ticket based on the device capabilities. The service bus identifies the processes defined in the job ticket, and identifies the service providers operable to provide the processes. The service bus then routes process messages to the identified service providers to execute the processes on the devices.
US08635620B2 Hardware device for processing the tasks of an algorithm in parallel
A hardware device for concurrently processing a fixed set of predetermined tasks associated with an algorithm which includes a number of processes, some of the processes being dependent on binary decisions, includes a plurality of task units for processing data, making decisions and/or processing data and making decisions, including source task units and destination task units. A task interconnection logic means interconnect the task units for communicating actions from a source task unit to a destination task unit. Each of the task units includes a processor for executing only a particular single task of the fixed set of predetermined tasks associated with the algorithm in response to a received request action, and a status manager for handling the actions from the source task units and building the actions to be sent to the destination task units.