Document Document Title
US08649239B2 Multi-bank random access memory structure with global and local signal buffering for improved performance
Disclosed are embodiments of a multi-bank random access memory (RAM) structure that provides signal buffering at both the global and local connector level for improved performance. Specifically, inverters are incorporated into the global connector(s), which traverse groups of memory banks and which transmit signals (e.g., address signals, control signals, and/or data signals) from a memory controller, and also into alternating groups of local connectors, which connect nodes on the global connector(s) to corresponding groups of memory banks, such that any of the signals that are received by the memory banks from the memory controller via the global and local connectors are buffered by an even number of inverters and are thereby true signals. Signal buffering at both the global and local connector level results in relatively fast slews, short propagation delays, and low peak power consumption with minimal, if any, increase in area consumption.
US08649233B2 Semiconductor device
A first data amplifier connects to a first memory cell identified by an X-address signal and a selection signal obtained by predecoding a Y-address signal. A second data amplifier connects to a second memory cell identified by the X-address signal and a delayed selection signal obtained by delaying the selection signal. A generator generates a delayed operation clock signal by delaying an operation clock signal of the first data amplifier. A timing controller receives a first control signal for controlling an operation of the first data amplifier and a second control signal for controlling an operation of the second data amplifier, outputs the first control signal to the first data amplifier at a timing according to the operation clock signal, and outputs the second control signal to the second data amplifier at a timing according to the delayed operation clock signal.
US08649227B2 Nonvolatile semiconductor memory device
When selectively erasing one sub-block, a control circuit applies, in a first sub-block, a first voltage to bit lines and a source line, and applies a second voltage smaller than the first voltage to the word lines. Then, the control circuit applies a third voltage lower than the first voltage by a certain value to a drain-side select gate line and a source-side select gate line, thereby performing the erase operation in the first sub-block. The control circuit applies, in a second sub-block existing in an identical memory block to the selected sub-block, a fourth voltage substantially identical to the first voltage to the drain side select gate line and the source side select gate line, thereby not performing the erase operation in the second sub-block.
US08649209B1 Memory element circuitry with reduced oxide definition width
Integrated circuits with memory circuitry are provided. The memory circuitry may include memory cell transistors and associated pass transistors. The memory cell transistors and the pass transistors may be formed using multiple strips of oxide definition (OD) regions coupled in parallel. The multiple OD strips may have reduced widths. The ratio of the distance from adjacent OD strips to a given OD strip to the width of the given OD strip may be at least 0.5. Forming memory circuitry transistors using this multi-strip arrangement may provide increased levels of stress that improve transistor performance. Each OD strip may have a reduced width that still satisfies fabrication design rules. Forming OD regions having reduced width allows the pass transistors to be overdriven at higher voltage levels to further improve transistor performance.
US08649192B2 Power supply with galvanic isolation
A power-supply includes a power-supply input. A transformer has a primary winding and a secondary winding separated galvanically from the primary winding. A controlled semiconductor switch has a control input in series circuit with the primary winding, which lies parallel to the power-supply input. A controllable control circuit for the semiconductor switch delivers a periodic control signal, which is controlled such that the output voltage on the secondary winding is kept at a desired value independent of the load, to the semiconductor switch. A voltage limiting circuit lies parallel to the input side of the primary winding. An output signal of the voltage limiting circuit acts on the switch state of the semiconductor switch to move the semiconductor switch to a stationary state, in which it generates no alternating current on the primary winding, when the voltage on the primary winding has exceeded a specified limiting value.
US08649185B2 Elastic conformal transducer apparatus
In one embodiment, a transducer apparatus comprises an elastomeric substrate and another elastomeric substrate. A plurality of transducer modules are mounted on the elastomeric substrate. A plurality of additional transducer modules are mounted on the other elastomeric substrate. Each transducer module of the plurality of transducer modules and the plurality of additional transducer modules comprises a transducer array having multiple transducer elements and an electronic circuitry coupled to the transducer array. The plurality of transducer modules and the plurality of additional transducer modules are mounted relative to each other whereby the plurality of additional transducer modules substantially cover any dead zones of the plurality of transducer modules.
US08649184B2 Signal conversion device with dual chip
The present invention provides a dual chip signal conversion device, comprising: a carrier, one side surface thereof being provided with at least a first contact and a second contact while the other side surface thereof being provided with at least a third contact and a fourth contact; a first chip disposed at one side surface of the carrier and electrically connected to the second and fourth contacts; a second chip disposed at one side surface of the carrier and electrically connected to the first chip; and an antenna disposed within the carrier and electrically connected to the second chip.
US08649182B2 Housing and method of fastening electronic card
A housing is usable for positioning selectively a first electronic card having a first locking hole and a second electronic card having a second locking hole, and includes a base plate, a connector for mating with the selected one of the first and second electronic cards, and a movable element including a lever body that has an end portion connected pivotally to the base plate and a third locking hole opposite to the end portion. The lever body is operable to move the third locking hole between a first position, where the third locking hole is aligned with the first locking hole to cooperatively receive a fastener for fastening one of the first and second electronic cards, and a second position, where the third locking hole is aligned with the second locking hole to cooperatively receive the fastener for fastening the other one of the first and second electronic cards.
US08649178B2 Heat dissipation module for electronic apparatus
A heat dissipation module for an electronic apparatus including a heat-generating structure is provided. The heat dissipation module includes a heat dissipation structure and a heat-conducting structure. The heat-conducting structure includes a heat-conducting portion and an extending portion. The heat-conducting portion is adhered between the heat-generating structure and the heat dissipation structure. The heat generated by the heat-generating structure is transmitted to the heat dissipation structure through the heat-conducting portion. The extending portion is connected to the heat-conducting portion and exposed to the heat-generating structure and the heat dissipation structure. When the extending portion is forced to move along a direction away from the heat-generating structure and the heat dissipation structure, the heat-conducting portion is deformed to release the adhesion between the heat-conducting portion and the heat-generating structure and the adhesion between the heat-conducting portion and the heat dissipation structure.
US08649174B2 Apparatus and article for separating intake air from exhaust air
An apparatus and article is disclosed for separating intake air from exhaust air. The apparatus discloses an intake port, coupled to conduct intake air; an exhaust port, coupled to conduct exhaust air; and an air-curtain port, coupled to conduct air-curtain air to separate at least a portion of the intake air conducted by the intake port from the exhaust air conducted by the exhaust port. The article discloses a ductwork shell article, having an intake vent, an intake chamber, an exhaust vent, an exhaust chamber, an air-curtain vent, and an air-curtain chamber; wherein: the air-curtain vent is in part located between the exhaust vent and the intake vent.
US08649172B2 Fixing assembly for fan module
A fixing assembly for a fan module is combined in a housing and includes at least one fixing base and at least one bottom pad. The fixing base has an accommodating space and a plurality of positioning portions in the accommodating space. The positioning portions are provided in pairs and symmetrical to each other. The locations of the positioning portions are designed for positioning various sizes of heat-dissipating fans. The bottom pad is configured to support the bottom of the fixing base. By this structure, various sizes of fan modules can be positioned in the housing.
US08649171B2 Mixed-flow ducted fan
In accordance with at least some embodiments, a computer system includes an enclosure (202) configured to hold at least one resource unit (204). The computer system also comprises a plurality of mixed-flow ducted fans units (400) selectively attached to the enclosure (202). Each mixed-flow ducted fan unit (400) comprises a duct (102) having an intake diameter, a bellmouth diameter, and an exhaust diameter. The bellmouth diameter is less than the intake diameter and the exhaust diameter.
US08649158B2 Capacitor arrangement and method for producing a capacitor arrangement
The present invention relates to a capacitor arrangement having a capacitor and a first terminal plate and a second terminal plate. The capacitor has a first contact face and a second contact face arranged opposite one another. The terminal plates are each connected to one of the contact faces and have protrusions on one end suitable for engaging in recesses in a power rail.
US08649151B2 Injector drive circuit
An injector drive circuit including: a step-up circuit generating a high voltage from a power supply; a first switching device connected to a path between the step-up circuit and an injector; a second switching device connected to the power supply; a third switching device connected between the injector and the ground; and a control unit operating the first, second and third switching device according to a value of current flowing through the injector; wherein the control unit has a unit turning on and off the second switching device in a period during which it turns on and off the first switching device a plurality of times; wherein the control unit has, as set values to control the current flowing through the injector, a first threshold defining a lower current limit, a second threshold defining an upper current limit and a third threshold, larger than the second threshold.
US08649149B1 Dual level surge protector circuit for telecommunication line
In accordance with a non-limiting example, a dual level surge protector adaptively selects the protection level required in response to any expected voltages that will be applied to the tip and ring lines. In one example, the surge protector has a first set value for responding to an applied battery voltage and a second set value for responding to a combination voltage that includes a battery voltage plus a ringing voltage.
US08649143B2 Improper voltage detection for electronic circuit breaker
A method of tripping a circuit breaker including sampling an AC line voltage at regular intervals during a first time period to generate a plurality of AC line voltage samples. Each sample of the set of AC line voltage samples is summed to generate a voltage area value. A controller determines whether the voltage area value exceeds a threshold. In response to the voltage area value exceeding the threshold, an amount determined as a function of the voltage area value is added to a count value. The circuit breaker is caused to trip in response to the count value equaling or exceeding a maximum count value.An improper line-to-neutral voltage can be detected by monitoring the line-to-neutral voltage and comparing it to a function such as a trip curve. Thus, components downstream from a circuit breaker, as well as the circuit breaker itself, can be protected from prolonged exposure to improper voltages, which can lead to component failure.
US08649141B2 By-pass diode structure for strings of series connected cells of a photovoltaic panel
A by-pass circuit includes a first power MOS with an intrinsic diode, a first conduction terminal coupled to a cathode, a second conduction terminal coupled to an anode, and a control terminal. A tank capacitor is coupled to the anode. A second MOS has a first and second conduction terminals, a control terminal, and a turn-on threshold smaller than that of the intrinsic diode, the first conduction terminal thereof coupled to the cathode and the control terminal coupled to the anode, so the first MOS turns on when the array of cells are sub-illuminated. An oscillator and charge pump are supplied through the second conduction terminal of the second MOS to charge the tank capacitor. A control circuit is coupled to the control terminal of the first power MOS to switch it based upon a voltage of the tank capacitor and sign of the voltage between the cathode and anode.
US08649124B2 Double shell writers
An apparatus illustratively includes a return pole (RP) and a shield. The RP has a first RP magnetic layer, a second RP magnetic layer, and a RP non-magnetic layer. The RP non-magnetic layer separates and magnetically decouples the RP first and second magnetic layers. The shield has a first shield magnetic layer, a second shield magnetic layer, and a shield non-magnetic layer. The shield non-magnetic layer separates and magnetically decouples the shield first and second magnetic layers. A method illustratively includes generating magnetic flux and collecting the magnetic flux through an inner magnetic shell.
US08649120B1 Systems and methods for gain compensation and re-timing in magnetic recording channels
A receiver for a hard disk drive system includes an analog front end module configured to receive a read-back signal and to output a digital read-back signal. An equalizer module is configured to generate a data vector based on the digital read-back signal. A detector module is configured to generate a decision vector based on the data vector. A gain module is configured to generate a scalar gain vector and to generate a revised data vector based on the data vector, the decision vector and the scalar gain vector. A back end module is configured to receive the revised data vector.
US08649119B2 Measuring variations in head-disk clearance in a hard disk drive
Methods and systems for measuring variations in head-disk clearance in a hard disk drive. User generated data is randomly selected at a controller of the hard disk drive wherein the user generated data is stored on a disk associated with the hard disk drive. A reference point associated with the user generated data is stored on a storage medium associated with the hard disk drive. The user generated data is read at the controller. The user generated data is analyzed with the reference point using more than two frequencies, at the controller, to obtain a variation in measurement of the head-disk clearance.
US08649116B2 Lens barrel and imaging optical system
A lens barrel of the present invention is provided with an electric section having a plurality of sliding portions that slide along the predetermined conductor pattern. The electric section is provided with a thin-sheet electric section body supporting the plurality of sliding portions, and a reinforcing portion is provided at the electric section body. Therefore, in the lens barrel 1, the reinforcing portion increases the deformation resistance of the electric section body that supports the sliding portions.
US08649113B1 Optical image capturing lens system
This invention provides an optical image capturing lens system comprising: a negative first lens element having a convex object-side surface and a concave image-side surface at the paraxial region; a positive second lens element; a negative third lens element; a positive fourth lens element having a convex image-side surface at the paraxial region; and a negative plastic fifth lens element having a convex object-side surface at the paraxial region as well as a concave at the paraxial region and convex at the peripheral region image-side surface, at least one of the object-side and image-side surfaces being aspheric. The optical image capturing lens system of the present invention effectively increases the angle of view to a proper range and suppresses the distortion. In addition, the present invention has a tighter arrangement of the lens elements and a smaller back focal length, and therefore is more appropriate for the compact device.
US08649111B2 Optical element, optical element module, electronic element module, and electronic information device
The present invention provides an optical element, comprising: a side surface where incident light undergoes diffuse reflection inside the optical element, between the outline of a top optical surface and a bottom optical surface; and an inclined surface for total reflection of diffuse reflection from the side surface, formed at least between the side surface and the bottom optical surface.
US08649110B2 Lens barrel
A lens barrel includes a fixed frame, a rotary frame provided inside the fixed frame, a first frame provided inside the rotary frame, an electronic component provided inside the first frame, and a flexible printed circuit board connected, at one end thereof, to the electronic component and connected, at the other end thereof, to the fixed frame. A gear part is provided at an outer circumferential surface of the rotary frame. In the first frame, a first protrusion outwardly protruding beyond the gear part in a radial direction about the optical axis is provided at a position corresponding to the flexible printed circuit board in a circumferential direction about the optical axis on a side of the gear part opposite to the object in the optical axis direction.
US08649101B2 Projection apparatus
A projection apparatus includes an illumination system providing an illumination light beam, a light valve disposed in a transmission path of the illumination light beam and converting the illumination light beam into an image light beam, a projection lens disposed in a transmission path of the image light beam, a first field lens, and a second field lens. The first field lens and the second field lens are disposed between the light valve and the projection lens and in the transmission paths of the illumination light beam and the image light beam. The first field lens is a positive meniscus lens with a first concave surface facing the projection lens. The second field lens is a positive meniscus lens with a second concave surface adjacent to the first field lens. The projection apparatus is capable of reducing a ghost image.
US08649094B2 Low thermal stress birefringence imaging lens
An imaging lens having reduced susceptibility to thermally-induced stress birefringence for imaging an object plane to an image plane; comprising: an aperture stop positioned between the object plane and the image plane; a first group of lens elements located on the object plane side of the aperture stop; and a second group of lens elements located on the image plane side of the aperture stop; wherein the lens elements immediately adjacent to the aperture stop are fabricated using glasses having a negligible susceptibility to thermal stress birefringence as characterized by a thermal stress birefringence metric; and wherein the other lens elements in the first or second groups of lens elements are fabricated using glasses having at most a moderate susceptibility to thermal stress birefringence as characterized by the thermal stress birefringence metric.
US08649091B2 Screen unit
A screen unit includes a screen, a screen holding unit which holds the upper end of the screen, a screen winding unit around which the screen is wound, a pantograph mechanism which expands and stores the screen, and adjusting units which control the position of the upper end of the screen when the screen is expanded. The adjusting units have a support member which has a screw portion, and an adjusting screw member rotatably provided on the corresponding support member. The support member shifts in accordance with rotation of the adjusting screw member.
US08649088B2 Microscope system
A microscope system stores, for each objective, the movement control information including a type flag indicating the type of an objective depending on the presence/absence of a soak or a type of the soak and a save distance for saving the stage or the objective switch unit by a predetermined distance. When a switch direction of objectives is input, and when there is a change in the type of the objective after the switch, the system stops an operation after the stage or the objective switch unit is moved according to the save distance, and recovers the stage or the objective switch unit to an original position after the operation direction input unit inputs an operation direction for the stage and the objective switch unit.
US08649083B2 Multi-zone mirrors
A multi-zone reflector having an opaque zone and a transflective zone. The reflector includes a supporting base, a lower reflecting layer disposed adjacent the supporting base, and an upper reflecting layer extending over the opacifying layer and the transflective zone of the reflector. The lower reflecting layer substantially completely covers the transflective zone, and the opacifying layer is disposed substantially outside the transflective zone adjacent to the lower reflecting layer. Over at least a portion of the transflective zone, the upper and lower reflecting layers have a common surface.
US08649078B2 Driver for optical deflector using complex-sinusoidal-wave drive voltages and method for setting the same
A driver for driving an optical deflector includes a mirror, a movable frame for supporting the mirror, a support body surrounding the movable frame, and a first group of piezoelectric actuators and a second group of piezoelectric actuators alternating with the first group of piezoelectric actuators. A first drive voltage for the first group of piezoelectric actuators has first repeated waves each with a first rising period. A second drive voltage for the second group of piezoelectric actuators has second repeated waves each with a second falling period corresponding to the first rising period of the first drive voltage and a second rising period corresponding to the first falling period of the first drive voltage. Frequencies of the first and second repeated waves exclude natural frequencies of a mechanically-vibrating system of the mirror with respect to the axis thereof depending upon the piezoelectric actuators.
US08649072B2 Imaging system, solid-state imaging device for the imaging system, and method for manufacturing the solid-state imaging device for the imaging system
Certain embodiments provide an imaging system including a light guiding member supported on a circuit substrate so as to be capable of lighting an object, an optical image-forming member and a solid-state imaging device. The optical image-forming member is arranged on the circuit substrate so as to have an optical axis thereof parallel to the circuit substrate, is arranged on the circuit substrate so as to be able to receive reflected light from the object, emits the reflected light in an oblique direction with respect to a surface of the circuit substrate, and forms an image at a predetermined distance position. The solid-state imaging device includes a light receiving surface that is oblique with respect to the circuit substrate surface, and is mounted on the surface of the circuit substrate so as to have the receiving surface positioned at a position where the image is formed.
US08649071B2 Image reading apparatus and image forming apparatus provided with the same
The image reading apparatus includes an LED, a light guiding body, and a photoelectric conversion element. The light guiding body has a plurality of prisms for diffusing light. The plurality of prisms includes: at least one first prism that is disposed on an incident surface side in the main scanning direction; and at least one second prism that is disposed on an opposite end side to the incident surface side in the main scanning direction. In the first prism, an angle of a prism incident plane with respect to the main scanning direction is greater than an angle of a prism anti-incident plane with respect to the main scanning direction. In the second prism, an angle of a prism incident plane with respect to the main scanning direction is smaller than an angle of a prism anti-incident plane with respect to the main scanning direction.
US08649070B2 Image forming optical element, image forming optical array, and image reading device
An image forming optical element is provided, in which an incident unit having a first lens face to which a light beam output from an original document (object) is input, an output unit having a second lens face outputting the light beam, and a bent unit connecting the incident unit and the output unit at an angle are integrally formed into a transparent medium. The bent unit has a reflection face reflecting the incident light beam input to the first lens face and guiding the light beam to the second lens face. The incident light beam is collected at any of the incident unit, the bent unit, and the output unit to form an intermediate image of the object, and the intermediate image is formed on the output side of the second lens face to form an erection image of the object.
US08649064B2 Printing device capable of printing image of image file
In order to correct image files to be printed in a printing device, there is provided a printing device including: an inputting unit that is configured to be capable of inputting an image file representing a motion image; a generating unit that is configured to extract a plurality of frame images from the image file and to generate a first output image in which the plurality of extracted frame images are laid out on a single page; correcting unit that is configured to correct the first output image and to generate a first corrected output image; and a printing unit that is configured to be capable of printing the first corrected output image.
US08649061B2 Laser print apparatus with dual halftones
A printing system comprises a memory configured to store image data representing an image. The printing system comprises a processor configured to perform a first digital halftone process on a first portion of the image and a second digital halftone process on a second portion of the image.
US08649058B2 Method to enhance detailed information
A method for enhancing detail information in rasterized, continuous tone images includes a function that enlarges the contrast of a pixel in a neighborhood of pixels when in that neighborhood one of the pixels has a value that is close to a white color. This is determined by selecting the whitest pixel in the neighborhood. The function shows a gradual transition between the situations in which the whitest pixel is close to the white color and in which the whitest pixel is far from the white color. The method results in a better rendering of fine print when the image is sent to a printing system that reproduces the image on receiving material. For small characters, the legibility is improved by application of this method.
US08649057B2 Operation apparatus, image forming apparatus, display control method, and medium for recording program
The operation apparatus according to the present disclosure includes a touch panel, a determination unit, a shrinkage rate calculating unit, a window shrinking unit, and a multi window display unit. The shrinkage rate calculating unit that calculates, in a case in which the determination unit determines that an input operation on the plurality of setting item keys is detected within a predetermined time period, a shrinkage rate allowing equal allocation of space for a predetermined number of setting condition input windows in a display region based on the setting item number, and a size of the display region in a case of displaying only one setting condition input window on the touch panel. The multi window display unit that displays in the display region the predetermined number of setting condition input windows that are shrunk by the window shrinking unit.
US08649051B2 Image composition device, image forming apparatus and computer readable medium storing program
An image composition device includes: a determination unit that determines an overlap state between respective pixel strings on corresponding lines in plural first image data pieces, having plural continuous pixels in the same color as a pixel string, including continuous coordinates with start point coordinate information and end point coordinate information of the pixel string, using the plural first image data pieces; and a composition unit that composes plural second image data pieces based on a result of determination by the determination unit.
US08649050B2 Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes: a memory buffer that has a plurality of band buffers for storing band data in which image data is divided into a plurality of bands; a data processing unit that performs a specific process with respect to the band data stored in the memory buffer; a storage unit having a storage area that store image data of a plurality of pages of an original of a specific size, storing processed band data that has been subjected to the specific process by the data processing unit into the storage area and, outputting a plurality of pieces of the processed band data stored in the storage area; and an output processing unit that performs a print process based on the plurality of pieces of the processed band data that is output from the storage unit.
US08649047B2 Dynamic ranking of service actions
Systems and methods for dynamically updating service ranks for a plurality of service actions for an electronic system are disclosed. A central computing system may receive a plurality of service actions prioritized in an order based on a service rank associated with each service action. Each service action may correspond to one or more operations performed to attempt to repair an electronic system. The central computing system may receive feedback information for one or more service actions from a first user pertaining at least to whether each service action successfully repaired a fault for the electronic system. The service rank for each service action may be updated based on at least the feedback information, and the order for the service actions may be modified based on the updated service ranks. The central computing system may provide one or more service actions to a second user based on the modified order.
US08649043B2 Methods of exporting print jobs from a print shop management program
A method implemented in a print shop management system for exporting print jobs from the print shop management program. The exporting method allows selection of an export job ticket format at the time of export. The export job ticket format may be a press device format suitable for consumption by a digital printing device, or an original input format that preserves the format of the original job ticket imported from an external program. For the press device format, an output job ticket in the requested format is generated from scratch based on job parameters stored in a job ticket database. For the original input format, a copy of the original job ticket is read from an input job ticket and exported; optionally, job parameters generated by the print shop management program may be incorporated into the copy of the input job ticket before exporting.
US08649040B2 Enhanced security printing method, and printing system and image forming device therefor
A printing method for printing a file stored on an external storage device attached to an image forming device includes steps of transmitting printing instruction information including first print instructing device information that specifies a print instructing device, from the print instructing device configured to issue a printing instruction to the image forming device, to the image forming device, determining whether the first print instructing device information included in the printing instruction information transmitted by the print instructing device is identical to second print instructing device information stored on the external storage device that specifies a print instructing device, and printing the file stored on the external storage device with the image forming device based upon the printing instruction information, when it is determined that the first print instructing device information is identical to the second print instructing device information.
US08649038B2 Image forming apparatus, image forming system and image forming method
An image forming apparatus includes: an image forming unit configured to form images based on image data transmitted from information processing apparatus of users including registered users and unregistered users; a setting unit configured to set permission information for each user based on a log of the image forming and limit information; a first judging unit configured to determine whether user identification information is attached to image data; a second judging unit configured to determine, based on the permission information that is set for an unregistered user, whether to permit execution of image forming of the image data, when the first judging unit determines that the user identification information is not attached to the image data.
US08649028B2 Image forming apparatus and method for establishing a connection with a USB device driver and application
An image forming apparatus has a connection terminal for connecting and disconnecting a plug-in device, which is configured to be plugged into the connection terminal. The image forming apparatus includes a driver controller that activates a device driver corresponding to the plug-in device in accordance with detection of insertion of the plug-in device. The device driver establishes a connection with an application in response to a connection request from the application that uses the plug-in device.
US08649027B2 Multifunction apparatus and non-transitory computer readable medium with a display program recorded thereon for multifunction apparatus
A multifunction apparatus having plurality types of functions and a display device that indicates one of the functions including: a selection device that is operated so as to select a function to be used among the plurality types of functions; and a display control device that makes the display device display information regarding the function selected with the selection device in an appearance that is different from appearances for rest of the plurality types of functions.
US08649011B2 Integrated analytical system and method
An analytical assembly within a unified device structure for integration into an analytical system. The analytical assembly is scalable and includes a plurality of analytical devices, each of which includes a reaction cell, an optical sensor, and at least one optical element positioned in optical communication with both the reaction cell and the sensor and which delivers optical signals from the cell to the sensor. Additional elements are optionally integrated into the analytical assembly. Methods for forming and operating the analytical system are also disclosed.
US08649007B2 Optical emission spectroscopic (OES) instrument with automatic top and bottom slit curtains
An optical emission spectroscopic (OES) instrument includes a spectrometer, a processor and an adjustable mask controlled by the processor. The adjustable mask defines a portion of an analytical gap imaged by the spectrometer. The instrument automatically adjusts the size and position of an opening in the mask, so the spectrometer images an optimal portion of plasma formed in the analytical gap, thereby improving signal and noise characteristics of the instrument, without requiring tedious and time-consuming manual adjustment of the mask during manufacture or use.
US08649001B2 Substrate for fingerprint contact
A substrate for fingerprint contact includes a plate, and the plate includes a first surface and a second surface. The first surface is an optical diffusing surface. The optical diffusing surface is used for being contacted by a finger, and features hazed particles. The second surface faces an optical imaging system. The optical diffusing surface of the plate helps to enhance light to be evenly emitted to the finger and weakens the unnecessary scattered light to the optical imaging system, so as to enhance the recognition rate of a fingerprint when the optical imaging system is used for intercept the light applied on a finger.
US08648997B2 Member with a cleaning surface and a method of removing contamination
A member with a cleaning surface for use in capturing particles in a lithographic apparatus is disclosed. The particles are captured by a plurality of projections which are arranged in a pattern. A sensor can be used to detect contaminant particles in the pattern.
US08648995B2 Liquid crystal display device and manufacturing method thereof
Relating to a method of manufacturing a liquid crystal display device, minimizing liquid crystal material loss and use of cleaning solvent, and providing a liquid crystal display device in which a seal pattern having few gap inconsistencies are taken as a objective. Liquid crystal material wraparound can be prevented by forming a seal stopper portion outside a peripheral seal portion, and in addition, by increasing the degree of symmetry of the seal pattern and by forming a damming portion between injection ports, gap inconsistencies within the liquid crystal display device can be reduced.
US08648986B2 Symmetric diffusion film and flat panel display applied with the same
A symmetric diffusion film (SDF) and a flat panel display applied with the same are provided. The SDF comprises at least two different materials of a first material having a first refractive index mixed with a second material having a second refractive index, and the first refractive index is different from the second refractive index. The flat panel display comprises a symmetric diffusion film (SDF) disposed at one side of the upper polarizer, and the upper polarizer adapting no compensation film.
US08648982B2 Optical film, polarizing plate and liquid crystal display device
There is provided an optical film having a small size change with a temperature change of a support of a pattern retardation film. An optical film includes: a support comprising a polymer having a moisture absorptivity of 0.5% or more; a first retardation region and a second retardation region, in which birefringence thereof is mutually different; and an optically anisotropic layer in which the first retardation region and the second retardation region are alternately patterned for every one line.
US08648969B2 Brightness adjusting device, display device, computer-readable recording medium, and brightness adjusting method
A brightness adjusting device of the present invention includes: a brightness setting section that accepts input of brightness change information that is an instruction to change a brightness setting value; a brightness adjusting section that performs brightness adjustment by either one of a first brightness adjusting unit and a second brightness adjusting unit having different characteristics from each other, in accordance with the instruction that is input from the brightness setting section; a determining section that determines whether or not the brightness adjustment of the brightness adjusting section switches from the first brightness adjusting unit to the second brightness adjusting unit; and an output section that outputs an alarm when the brightness adjustment of the brightness adjusting section is determined to switch from the first brightness adjusting unit to the second brightness adjusting unit based on a determination result of the determining section.
US08648967B2 Video signal processing device and method
A multiband signal generator generates multiband signals from 21 lines of input data by using a subset of N lines with each line delayed from 1 line to N lines respectively. M line buffers delay the multiband signals such that each line is delayed from 1 line to M lines respectively. An analyzer detects correlations between video data by selecting regions with a maximum size M×M in the multiband signals, and analyzes characteristics of the video data. A multiband signal generator generates multiband signals with cutoff frequencies based on an analysis result from the analyzer, by using the data from 1-line through N-line delayed multiband signal. An amplitude adjuster and synthesizer unit adjusts and synthesizes amplitudes of the multiband signals.
US08648955B2 Apparatus and method for acquiring light field data using variable modulator
Disclosed are an apparatus and method for acquiring light field data using a variable modulator. The apparatus varies a modulator located between an optical system and a sensor adaptively according to objects to be captured or a peripheral environment. Accordingly, 4-dimensional (4D) light field data optimized according to objects to be captured or according to changes in focal distance may be acquired.
US08648946B2 Image processing device, image processing method, and solid-state image pickup device
According to one embodiment, an image processing device includes a black level regulating unit. The black level regulating unit has a frame integration average holding unit. A frame integration average is an integration average of an optical black signal using a video frame as a unit. The frame integration average holding unit holds the frame integration average as a signal to be applied to a black level regulation of an effective pixel signal. The frame integration average holding unit updates the frame integration average when an image pickup condition is changed.
US08648941B2 Image processor, method of controlling the same, and storage medium
An image processor which is capable of performing correction of defective pixels without degrading image quality when synthesizing a plurality of still images. When a plurality of image data items are synthesized, a first reference value which is smaller than a second reference value for use in determining whether or not to correct pixel data forming the image data is compared with a pixel value indicated by each of synthesized pixel data items forming the synthesized image data, and first correction processing is performed in which the synthesized pixel data of the synthesized image data is corrected according to a result of comparison.
US08648939B2 Solid-state imaging device, drive method therefor, and electronic device
A solid-state imaging device includes: a normal pixel disposed in a pixel section capable of performing a global shutter, and including at least a photoelectric conversion part and a memory part adjacent to the photoelectric conversion part; and a leak-light correcting pixel disposed in the pixel section to correct degradation of an image quality originated from leak light leaked into the memory part.
US08648936B2 Image processing apparatus and image processing method
A recovery processing unit performs an image quality recovery processing of reducing a blur in an image using a filter to reduce a blur at an image height position for each image height on a line from the center position of the image to an end of the image.
US08648932B2 System, apparatus and methods for providing a single use imaging device for sterile environments
A system, apparatus and methods for providing a single use imaging device for sterile environments is disclosed and described. A single use high definition camera used for general purpose surgical procedures including, but not limited to: arthroscopic, laparoscopic, gynecologic, and urologic procedures, may comprise an imaging device that is a sterile and designed to ensure single use. The imaging device may have a single imaging sensor, either CCD (charge coupled device) or CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor), encased in a housing. The imaging device may further include the ability to be attached to an optical coupling device, using C-Mount threads or another proprietary or unique connection method. The imaging device may further include a cable to transmit data to and from a camera control unit.
US08648926B2 Imaging device and imaging device control method
An imaging device of the present invention comprises an imaging section for photoelectrically converting a subject image, and outputting image data, an aperture control section for narrowing subject light flux at a first aperture value and a second aperture value, a shooting control section for, in response to a release instruction, imaging a first image at the first aperture value and, reading out first image data from the imaging section while simultaneously carrying out a stopping down operation to the second aperture value, imaging a second image at the second aperture value and, reading out second image data from the imaging section, and an image processing section for detecting an amount of variation in contrast value for each location in the first image data and the second image data, and carrying out processing to blur at an intensity of blurring according to the amount of variation between each location.
US08648922B2 Medical image apparatus and medical image archiving apparatus
A medical image apparatus according to the embodiments has a medical image utilization apparatus and medical image archiving apparatus. The former has an acquisition part that acquires a requested frame rate for cases in which medical images are movie displayed on its display, and an designating part that designates an attention point with respect to one of the medical images displayed. The latter has a transmission speed measurement part that measures the data transmission speed between the former and the latter, an extraction part that, based on the requested frame rate, the attention point and the data transmission speed, extracts the region including the attention point for each of the medical images, and a transmission part that transmits an image of the extracted region to the display. The display displays, as a moving image, the images of the region extracted by said extraction part at said requested frame rate.
US08648915B2 Image processing apparatus and method
An image processing apparatus that records image data on a detachable storage medium in a previously set recording format is provided. The apparatus sets the recording format of image data, and determines whether or not a storage medium attached to an attachment unit has a communication function that communicates with a different apparatus than the image processing apparatus. If it is determined that the storage medium has a communication function, and that the recording format of image data that can be transferred by the communication function does not match the recording format that has been set, the apparatus issues a warning.
US08648906B2 Precision solder resist registration inspection method
A method is disclosed for operating a machine vision inspection system to determine a fluorescent imaging height for acquiring a fluorescent image for repeatably determining the location of a feature within the fluorescent material. The height of an exposed workpiece portion exposed outside of the fluorescent material is determined (e.g., using a height sensor or autofocus operations). The determined height is repeatable. The exposed portion has a characteristic height relative to the fluorescent material and/or features located therein. The fluorescent imaging height, which may be inside the fluorescent material, is determined relative to the determined height of the exposed portion. The fluorescent imaging height is determined such that it enhances the detection of the desired feature located within the fluorescent material in the resulting fluorescent image. For a variety of workpieces, the method provides automatic acquisition of appropriately focused fluorescent image more reliably than previously known methods.
US08648902B2 Image processing apparatus
In one embodiment, an element 106 transforms non-polarized light into plane polarized light with an arbitrary plane of polarization. A synchronizer 112 gives the element 106 an instruction to rotate the plane of polarization, thereby getting the plane of polarization of the illumination rotated and casting that polarized illumination toward the object. At the same time, the synchronizer 112 sends a shooting start signal to an image sensor 110, thereby getting video. The synchronizer 112 performs these processing steps multiple times. A captured video signal is sent to an image processing processor 108. Candidates for the azimuth angle of a surface normal are obtained based on an intensity maximizing angle image, the zenith angle of the surface normal is obtained based on a degree of intensity modulation image, and the ambiguity of the azimuth angle is solved, thereby generating a surface groove normal image.
US08648901B2 Imaging apparatus, imaging method and endoscope apparatus
A head separated type imaging apparatus includes a head unit and a main unit which are separated, the head unit imaging a subject and the main unit processing an imaging signal transmitted from the head unit. The head unit includes an imaging unit having a plurality of pixels and imaging the subject, and a storage unit storing correction information for pixels for which a data amount of correction information is larger than a predetermined threshold out of correction information correcting noise of the plurality of pixels and remaining correction data. The main unit includes a correction information obtaining unit obtaining the correction information for pixels for which the data amount of correction information is larger than the predetermined threshold in priority and then obtaining the remaining correction data, and a correcting unit correcting, when the correction information obtaining unit completes obtaining of the correction information for pixels for which the data amount of correction information is larger than the predetermined threshold, an image signal transmitted from the imaging unit of the head unit based on the obtained correction information.
US08648900B2 Video observation of a patient's face during a medical procedure while the patient is in a prone position
Apparatus that allows at least one feature of a patient's face to be observed while the patient is in a prone position includes a facial cushion, a video camera and a monitor. The facial cushion provides cranial support for a patient in a prone position during a medical procedure. The cushion has a frontal aperture that is dimensioned so that the facial feature of a patient wearing the facial cushion and in a prone position are visible through the at least one aperture. The video camera has a lens disposed for providing a sequence of video signals representing sequential images of the facial features that are visible through the frontal aperture. The monitor is coupled to the video camera for enabling the images of the at least one facial feature to be monitored. The images are monitored by a video monitor and/or a computer.
US08648898B2 Stereoscopic liquid crystal shutter glasses and stereoscopic image display system
According to one embodiment, stereoscopic liquid crystal shutter glasses include a left-eye liquid crystal shutter and a right-eye liquid crystal shutter. Each of the left-eye liquid crystal shutter and the right-eye liquid crystal shutter has a response time not more than 5 milliseconds. Each of the left-eye liquid crystal shutter and the right-eye liquid crystal shutter has a contrast ratio not less than 350:1. The contrast ratio is a value at an angle of sight of 30 degrees in left direction and in right direction.
US08648879B2 Apparatus and method for tracking augmented reality content
Provided are an apparatus and method for tracking augmented reality content using a mobile sensor. The method includes recognizing an augmented reality marker from an input image and calculating a position and posture of the recognized augmented reality marker, calculating a position and posture of augmented reality content corresponding to the augmented reality marker using the calculated position and posture of the augmented reality marker, synthesizing the augmented reality content with the input image using the calculated position and posture of the augmented reality content, and displaying the synthesized image, updating the position and posture of the augmented reality content using a 6-axis sensor when the augmented reality marker is not recognized in the input image; and synthesizing the augmented reality content with the input image using the updated position and posture of the augmented reality content, and displaying the synthesized image.
US08648878B2 Inferring diagram structure through implicit shape relationships
Information in a diagram is logically structured using lists, containers, and callouts without requiring the diagram author to explicitly define a structure or map any diagram contents to a structure. Logical relationships are inferred based on actions associated with shapes, groupings, and attributes of shapes/groupings taken by the author. Feedback mechanisms are provided to communicate an underlying structure to the author. Intelligent behaviors are enabled to expose manipulation of diagrams based on their logical structure.
US08648874B2 Method and system for providing edge antialiasing
A system and method for generating a graphical image on a display is disclosed. The graphical image is generated from data describing at least one object. The display includes a plurality of positions. Each of the plurality of positions has an area. The system and method include determining if a portion of the at least one object intersects a current position of the plurality of positions and providing an output if the portion intersects the current position. The method and system further include providing a mask for the portion if it is determined that the portion intersects the current position. The mask indicates an extent to which the at least one portion occupies the area of current position. The method and system further include utilizing the mask to provide antialiasing. The method and system also include repeating the determining, one mask providing, and utilizing steps for each of the plurality of positions.
US08648862B2 Method for automatically modifying a graphics feature to comply with a resolution limit
A method, system and computer readable media relating to automatically adjusting a graphics feature to compensate for a predetermined resolution limit. The method generally relates to automatically identifying, within a selected area of a graphics file, one or more portions of at least one graphics feature meeting predetermined criteria for adjustment, including criteria for defining a thin portion having a thickness less than the resolution limit. The method then automatically modifies only the identified one or more portions to have an adjusted thickness greater than the initial thickness. Additional criteria may be used to restrict which thin portions of the feature are actually modified.
US08648853B2 Anatomical recognition, orientation and display of an upper torso to assist breast surgery
Various methods, techniques or modules are provided to allow for the automated analysis of the 3-D representation of the upper front torso (i) to recognize 3-D anatomical features, (ii) to orient the subject with reference to their anatomy or a display, (iii) to determine dimensional analysis including direct point-to-point lines, 3-D surface lines, and volume values, (iv) to simulate the outcome with the addition of breast implants including breast and nipple positioning, (v) to assist in the selection of the breast implants, and/or (vi) to assist in the planning of breast surgery. The automated analysis is based on the analysis of changes in a 3-D contour map of the upper torso, orientation analysis of 3-D features and planes, color analysis of 3-D features, and/or dimensional analysis of 3-D features and positions of the upper torso.
US08648836B2 Hybrid pointing device
The present invention discloses a hybrid pointing device including an optical navigation module and a pointing module. The optical navigation module is configured to replace the conventional buttons of a convention pointing device, such as an optical mouse or a trackball mouse. The optical navigation module is configured to sense gestures of at least one object operated by a user to activate commands associated with particular programs running on the host. Since the optical navigation module is only configured to sense gestures of the object but not the movement of the hybrid pointing device relative to a surface, the resolution thereof is aimed to be sufficiently high enough for sensing gestures and no need to be relatively high.
US08648819B2 Touch screen element
A capacitive two-dimensional (2D) touch panel has three sets of interleaved electrodes. A first set of electrodes is spaced apart along the y-direction and these are galvanically connected to each other by a resistive strip connected at either end to a connection line. A second set of electrodes is also arrayed along the y-direction and these are galvanically connected to each other via a notionally non-resistive first connection. A third set of electrodes is also arrayed along the y-direction and these are galvanically connected to each other via a notionally non-resistive second connection. The second and third sets of electrodes are interleaved without galvanic cross-conduction to provide a gradient along the x-direction to resolve touch position in the x-direction. The first set of electrodes resolves touch position along the y-direction. Passive or active capacitive sensing techniques may be used to acquire the position information from the 2D touch panel.
US08648817B2 Portable game machine with touch panel display
A portable game machine with a display which also serves as a touch panel type input portion is comprised of means for detecting a contact between a finger of a player and a screen, means for computing a coordinate position of the finger on the screen, means for computing and determining the coordinate position where the object to be displayed on the display is displayed so as to separate a predetermined distance from the coordinate position of the finger and to create a gap between the object displayed on the display and a periphery of the finger contacted with the screen, and object display means for displaying the object at the computed and determined coordinate position on the display.
US08648813B2 Apparatus for processing input data
An apparatus for processing input data by means of instructions and outputting the processed data, comprising a central data processing unit, memory means in which the instructions are stored, data input means for inputting the data, and data output means for outputting the processed data, wherein said data input means are arranged for detecting a user's input motion in at least two dimensions, and wherein said data processing unit is arranged for determining representatives of the directions of the detected input motion, wherein the data processing unit is furthermore arranged for carrying out a predetermined instruction from the memory in dependence on the determined values of the representatives of the directions of the input motion and, providing a minimum length or direction has been exceeded, independently of the length or direction of the input motion.
US08648804B1 Joystick apparatus
An embodiment of the invention is directed to a Joystick apparatus comprising a housing for anchoring the Joystick to; a stem having an actuator connected to a first end, the stem having a second end terminating at a working tip, the stem having an intermediate portion adapted to interface with a pivot point supported by the housing; a flexible disc having a peripheral rim and a central portion, the peripheral rim being supported by the housing, the central portion being connected to the stem about the stem's pivot point; and a sensor located proximate to the working tip and being adapted to detect the motion of the working tip. A novel aspect of the invention is in the use of a flexible disc acting simultaneously as a joint and a spring, thereby simplifying construction of the Joystick.
US08648801B2 Aligned display navigation
Navigating on a display includes tracking motion of an input tool on a display, comparing a motion of the input tool to a threshold, and changing a position of the visible portion of a page of information on the display if the input tool motion exceeds the threshold. The position of the visible portion of the page of information on the display is constrained if the motion does not exceed the threshold.
US08648783B2 Apparatus and method for driving liquid crystal display
A driving apparatus and a method for a liquid crystal display wherein a picture can be inspected by a specific image signal when an image signal is not applied is provided. In the driving apparatus, an image signal processor extracts a complex synchronizing signal and a first image signal from a complex image signal input from an external source. An image signal generator generates a second image signal. An input signal detector counts the pulses in the complex synchronizing signal to generate a selection signal. An image signal selector selectively outputs any one of the first image signal from the image signal processor and the second image signal from the image signal generator in response to the selection signal. A data driver applies an output image signal selected and output by the image signal selector to the liquid crystal display panel.
US08648773B2 Three-dimensional display
A light ray controller has a circular frustum shape and is fitted in a circular hole of a top board such that its large diameter bottom opening faces upward. The light ray controller transmits a light ray while diffusing the light ray in a ridgeline direction and transmits the light ray straightforward without diffusing the light ray in a circumferential direction. A rotation module is provided under the table. One or more scanning projectors are provided on a circumference around an axis of the light ray controller on the rotation base of the rotation module. One or more scanning projectors are rotated by the rotation module. The controller controls one or more scanning projectors being rotated based on three-dimensional shape data stored in a storage.
US08648772B2 Amalgamated display comprising dissimilar display devices
A reflective display, such as an electrophoretic display (EPD), and an emissive display, such as a backlit liquid crystal display, may be combined to form an amalgamated display. This combination may include layering one display atop the other, alternating reflective and emissive display elements, or otherwise interspersing reflective and emissive display elements with one another. Images on the amalgamated display may be presented using either reflective or emissive modes or a combination of the two, depending upon factors such as refresh rate, power consumption, presence of color and/or video, and so forth.
US08648767B2 Communication device
There is provided a communication device that includes an antenna section including a plurality of loop coils that are combined in a polygonal pyramid shape, and a communication section configured to perform contactless communication with another communication device using the antenna section. The plurality of loop coils may include two adjacent loop coils, and magnetic fields generated by the two loop coils may have mutually opposite phases.
US08648762B2 Loop array antenna system and electronic apparatus having the same
An antenna device includes: a substrate; micro-strip and grounding portions that are respectively disposed on opposite first and second surfaces of the substrate, the former including a signal-feed section for feeding of signals and a plurality of first connecting sections electrically connected to the signal-feed section; and a plurality of first loop antennas arranged along a peripheral edge of the grounding portion, each including a first radiator portion disposed on the first surface and electrically connected to a respective one of the first connecting sections, and a second radiator portion disposed on the second surface, electrically interconnecting the first radiator portion and the grounding portion, and cooperating with the first radiator portion to form a loop.
US08648758B2 Wideband cavity-backed slot antenna
A wideband cavity-backed slot antenna includes an enclosure having a slot, a balun located proximate the slot, a feed extending through the enclosure to the balun, and a plurality of coupled lines proximate the balun and distal to a location at which the balun is coupled to the feed.
US08648747B2 Method of downloading ephemeris data based on user activity
Ephemeris data is downloaded intelligently to a GPS-enabled wireless communications device based on user activity rather than at fixed predetermined intervals. Ephemeris data can be downloaded to enable both Aided GPS and Assisted GPS. The device can download ephemeris data based on the frequency of requests into an API communicating with a GPS driver, based on the detection of a new network, or a change in time zone of the network time. Intelligent, adaptive downloading of ephemeris optimizes the usage of bandwidth and the data charge to the user while ensuring that ephemeris data is cached to provide assistance for location-based services such as turn-based navigation.
US08648746B2 Network analyzer with an n-port network having at least two ports for measuring the wave parameters of a measurement object
A network analyzer includes an n-port network with two ports for measuring wave parameters of a measurement object. Each port has a feed for a radio-frequency signal from a signal source. Signal components of the radio-frequency signal fed into the respective port are reflected at the measurement object and the signal components of one or more radio-frequency signals fed into at least one other port are transmitted through the measurement object to the respective port are measured as wave parameters. The two ports are supplied with different radio-frequency signals, wherein frequencies or frequency bands are offset with respect to one another by a frequency offset. Reflected and transmitted signal components of the radio-frequency signals are measured at the same time at the two ports.
US08648744B2 Object detection apparatus
An object detection apparatus including: an electromagnetic wave radiating-receiver radiating an electromagnetic wave and receiving a reflection wave of the radiated electromagnetic wave; a reflection point identifying mechanism identifying, based on data regarding the reflection wave received by the electromagnetic wave radiating-receiver, a reflection point on a detection target object at which the radiated electromagnetic wave was reflected; and a representative point setting mechanism setting a representative point representing the position of the detection target object based on the reflection point identified by the reflection point identifying mechanism. The object detection apparatus outputs data regarding the set representative point. The representative point setting mechanism performs a correction prohibiting or minimizing a change of position of the representative point in the detection target object which occurs as a result of a change in a relative position between the detection target object and the moving body.
US08648739B2 Transmission interface and system using the same
A transmission interface includes a first pin, a second pin, a conversion unit, and a decoding unit. The conversion unit receives a serial input data stream via the first pin and receives a serial clock via the second pin. The conversion unit converts the serial input data stream to parallel input data and converts the serial clock to a parallel clock. The serial input data stream has a full swing form. The decoding unit receives and decodes the parallel input data and generates an input data signal according to the decoded parallel input data.
US08648735B2 Safety directional indicator
Provided is a safety directional indicator to improve highway safety. Embodiments of the invention include devices for guiding a driver of a vehicle in a desired direction, typically away from highway workers, pedestrians, curbs, and opposing lanes of traffic. Specifically included is a safety directional indicator system comprising a flexible belt with a plurality of light transmitting bars disposed along the belt and having a plurality of LEDs disposed at one elongated end of each light transmitting bar and in operable communication with a control system for illuminating the LEDs in a manner to indicate a direction for traffic. Safety devices according to the invention can be stand-alone devices, devices capable of being attached to objects or structures at a highway scene, or configured to be worn on a person's body. An object of the safety devices according to embodiments of the invention is to increase driver awareness of highway situations especially during conditions of restricted visibility.
US08648734B2 System and method for collecting data using wired sensors connected to wireless nodes
A system for collecting data includes a remote sensor assembly and a central data collection device. The remote sensor assembly has a data bus, a remote wireless node, and a plurality of remote sensor modules in wired communication with the remote wireless node via the data bus. Each of the remote sensor modules converts a sensed condition into data in response to a request from the remote wireless node. The central data collection device has a master wireless node for periodically wirelessly communicating with the remote wireless node. The remote wireless node collects data from each of the plurality of remote sensor modules and periodically transmits the data to the master wireless node. The remote sensor modules are interchangeable and new remote sensor modules may be added. The remote wireless node may detect the sequence of the attached remote sensor modules to enable three-dimensional mapping of the sensed conditions.
US08648728B2 Motion sensitive interlock for a vehicle having a breath analyzer
Apparatus for use with a vehicle is disclosed and comprises an interlock device. The device is adapted to, in use: at least while said vehicle is in motion, periodically generate a prompt; assess motion of said vehicle; at least when said vehicle is assessed by said device to be at rest, carry out an analysis operation wherein a breath sample is received and analyzed; and in the event that, within a predetermined period following a prompt, the device does not, while said vehicle is assessed to be at rest, carry out said analysis operation, enter an alarm state at least when the vehicle is in motion. The device can be adapted to carry out analysis operations only when the vehicle is assessed to be at rest.
US08648724B2 System and method for motivating or prompting hand washing
The invention relates to a system and method for motivating or prompting persons to wash hands. The system includes a sensor for detecting use of a toilet or a urinal, which sensor creates a first signal indicative of that use, and a signaling arrangement for issuing in response to the first signal at least one second signal reminding or prompting the person to use a cleansing agent dispenser.
US08648721B2 Security tag with integrated EAS and energy harvesting magnetic element
An EAS security tag for providing both EAS and battery recharging features within one tag. The tag includes a rechargeable battery and an antenna having a magnetic core and at least one coil winding disposed around at least a portion of the core. The antenna supplies a voltage corresponding to a first frequency or a second frequency when placed within a magnetic field. The tag also includes an EAS circuit having a resonant frequency corresponding to the first frequency, and an energy harvesting circuit having a resonant frequency corresponding to the second frequency, where the battery recharging circuit recharges the rechargeable battery. Depending upon the magnetic field that the tag is exposed to, either the EAS circuit is enabled thus allowing for EAS detection or the energy harvesting circuit is enabled allowing for the battery to be recharged.
US08648720B2 High security burglar alarm device
Improved, magnetic high security switch apparatus is provided for use in detecting relative movement between first and second members such as a door frame and door from a close position, wherein the members are proximal, and an open position, where the members are separated. The switch apparatus includes a magnetic shiftable ball switch assembly having an elongated housing and a shiftable ball therein, which traverses an oblique path of travel between respective switch states in response to relative movement between the first and second members. Preferably, the housing is oriented at an oblique angle relative to the horizontal in order to prevent defeat of the switch apparatus through use of an external defeat magnet.
US08648719B2 Container unit for the shipping, storage and protection of laboratory substances
A container unit for the storage and protection of laboratory substances includes a protective housing and at least one dosage-dispensing unit. The at least one dosage-dispensing unit includes a reservoir container and a dispensing head. To prepare the at least one dosage-dispensing unit for operation, the protective housing can be removed from the dosage-dispensing unit. The protective housing has a bottom part with at least one suitably shaped recess to provide a stable seat for the at least one dosage-dispensing unit, as well as a bell-shaped top. The top can be connected to the bottom part, so as to form a tightly sealed interior space. For transportation and storage purposes, the at least one dosage-dispensing unit is arranged in the interior space of the closed protective housing.
US08648707B2 Process for generating an alarm, control device and device for carrying out the process
A process is provided for generating an alarm if at least one monitored parameter (13) deviates from at least one preset value or value range, with the detection or determination of parameter (13) in case of its deviation. The process takes into account a verification interval (25) of limited duration in time and with adaptation of the time limitation of the verification interval (25) as a function of the extent of deviation of parameter (13) from the preset value or value range. A control device, a device for generating an alarm, a treatment devices, a digital storage medium, a computer program product as well as to a computer program are provided.
US08648703B2 Tire pressure monitoring apparatus and methods
A vehicle having a sensor apparatus includes a first mounting portion and a second mounting portion disposed on a side surface of a vehicle frame, wherein the first and second mounting portions are spaced apart in a vehicle length direction, wherein the first and second mounting portions configured to receive a load platform of the vehicle, a wheel assembly comprising a sensor transmitter, and a receiver mounted to the side surface between the first and the second mounting portions, the receiver configured to receive a signal from the sensor transmitter.
US08648699B2 Item tracking system and arrangement
An item tracking system including at least one signal emitting element directly or indirectly attached to a portion of at least one item, wherein at least a portion of the at least one signal emitting element extends from the at least one item. The system further includes a container, including: (i) a support surface configured to at least partially support the at least one item and having at least one opening extending therethrough, which is configured to at least partially receive at least a portion of the signal emitting element therethrough; and (ii) at least one signal receiving member configured for communication with the portion of the at least one signal emitting member extending through the at least one opening. An item tracking container and method of tracking are also disclosed.
US08648697B2 System and method for information service using network
Disclosed is an information providing system using a network. The information providing system comprises a tag for transmitting a tag identification code, a mobile communication terminal for receiving the tag identification code through a first network, generating map request data and transmitting the map request data together with the tag identification code, a first computer for transmitting the tag identification code and the map request data, which are received from the mobile communication terminal through a third network, through a second network, a third computer for providing map data through the second network, and a second computer for receiving the tag identification code and the map request data through the second network, receiving the map data from the third computer, and transmitting the map data to the first computer. The first computer transmits the map data to the mobile communication terminal through the third network.
US08648693B2 Key slot device for in-vehicle auxiliary key
A key slot capable of accommodating an auxiliary key, which is a vehicle key other than a master key. A key lock mechanism locks or unlocks movement of the auxiliary key in the key slot, thereby allowing the auxiliary key to be taken out of the key slot in accordance with a lending condition of the auxiliary key. An invalid key return prevention unit permits the auxiliary key to be returned to the key slot in accordance with a return condition of the auxiliary key. If the return condition is met, the invalid key return prevention unit causes the key lock mechanism to lock the auxiliary key in the key slot. If the return condition is not met, the invalid key return prevention unit does not allow the auxiliary key to be returned to the key slot.
US08648692B2 Accessing an automobile with a transponder
Accessing an automobile with a transponder is disclosed. A processor may determine if the transponder is within range and receive a signal with an identification code from the transponder. If the identification code is valid, user information for the automobile based on the identification code are retrieved. The processor may also process spoken commands if the identification code is valid.
US08648689B2 Method and system for detecting door state and door sensor failures
A system includes a controller that executes a method for determining failure of the door latch sensor using both the door latch sensor and a door lock sensor. If the door latch sensor is faulty, the controller adjusts an automatic feature of the vehicle based on a door lock signal instead of a door state signal. The controller is also configured to mark the door latch signal as faulty if the door latch system is not functioning properly by using a fault counter that tracks the door lock sensor.
US08648686B2 Resonant transformer and resonant converter employing same
A resonant transformer and resonant converter are disclosed. The resonant transformer includes a first bobbin, a first primary winding coil, plural first secondary winding coils, a second bobbin, a second primary winding coil, plural second secondary winding coils and a magnetic core assembly. The first bobbin includes a first winding section and plural single-trough second winding sections. Plural pins are arranged at the first winding section. The first primary winding coil is wound around the first winding section and connected with the pins. The first secondary winding coils are wound around respective single-trough second winding sections. The second bobbin includes a third winding section and plural single-trough fourth winding sections. The second primary winding coil are wound around the third winding section and connected with the pins at the first winding section of the first bobbin. The second secondary winding coils are wound around respective single-trough fourth winding sections.
US08648681B2 Magnetic structure production
Magnetic structure production may relate, by way of example but not limitation, to methods, systems, etc. for producing magnetic structures by printing magnetic pixels (aka maxels) into a magnetizable material. Disclosed herein is production of magnetic structures having, for example: maxels of varying shapes, maxels with different positioning, individual maxels with different properties, maxel patterns having different magnetic field characteristics, combinations thereof, and so forth. In certain example implementations disclosed herein, a second maxel may be printed such that it partially overwrites a first maxel to produce a magnetic structure having overlapping maxels. In certain example implementations disclosed herein, a magnetic printer may include a print head comprising multiple parts and having various properties. In certain example implementations disclosed herein, various techniques for using a magnetic printer may be employed to produce different magnetic structures. Furthermore, description of additional magnet-related technology and example implementations thereof is included herein.
US08648675B1 Transmission-line bend structure
A planar transmission line may include first and second spaced apart planar conductors. The transmission line may include a first section in which the first and second conductors extend along a first line in respective first and second parallel planes and are broadside coupled, and a second section extending from the first section along a second line transverse to the first line. The first and second conductors in the second section may include respective first portions extending in the respective first and second planes that are broadside coupled. The first conductor may include a second portion in the second section extending in the second plane, with the first portion of the second conductor and the second portion of the first conductor having adjacent edges that are edge-coupled.
US08648662B2 Oscillator circuit with a fast transient
An oscillator circuit for producing a frequency signal has a resonator element, an amplifier circuit and a coupling apparatus. The coupling apparatus connects the amplifier circuit to the resonator element for the duration of a switching-on process in the oscillator circuit.
US08648658B2 Generation of pre-distortion coefficients
There is disclosed a method for generating pre-emphasis coefficients for a pre-emphasis stage of a non-linear distorting device, the method comprising the steps of: capturing, for a given time period, samples of an input signal and samples of an output signal; determining the direction of an error between the captured samples; adjusting the input signal in a direction to reduce the error to generate an estimate of the pre-distorted input signal; generating updated pre-distortion coefficients in dependence on the estimate of the pre-distorted input signal and generated pre-distortion coefficients for one or more previous time periods.
US08648655B2 Modulator and an amplifier using the same
A linear amplification with nonlinear components (LINC) modulator is provided. The LINC modulator includes: a separator that generates a plurality of constant envelope signals from a source signal; a processor that receives an input signal and detects and removes a phase jump in phase trajectory of the input signal to generate a first signal having a continuous phase trajectory and a second signal having a discontinuous phase trajectory; and a quadrature modulator that mixes the first signal with the second signal to reconstruct the input signal.
US08648650B2 Integrated circuit with dynamic power supply control
Disclosed herein is an integrated circuit including: a timing signal distribution circuit configured to distribute a timing signal that indicates predetermined timing; a synchronous operation circuit configured to operate in synchronization with the distributed timing signal; a logic circuit configured to perform predetermined logical operation based on an operation result of the synchronous operation circuit; and a power supply section configured to supply a voltage lower than a timing signal distribution circuit drive voltage to drive the timing signal distribution circuit as a logic circuit drive voltage to the logic circuit.
US08648649B2 Voltage down converter
A voltage down converter includes a first driver having a first input terminal configured to generate a first voltage by using an external voltage in response to a first driving signal being inputted to the first input terminal, a control circuit configured to output the first driving signal to the first input terminal in response to a level of the first voltage, a second driver having a second input terminal configured to generate a second voltage by using the external voltage in response to the first driving signal or a second driving signal being inputted to the second input terminal, wherein the first driving signal is transferred from the first input terminal to the second input terminal through a conductive line, and a driving control circuit configured to generate the second driving signal and transferred to the second input terminal in response to a level of the second voltage.
US08648642B2 Low voltage analog switch
A switch for an analog signal may include a main MOS transistor whose source forms an input terminal of the switch and whose drain forms an output terminal of the switch, a capacitor having a first terminal permanently connected to the source of the main transistor, a circuit for charging the capacitor, and a first auxiliary transistor configured to connect the second terminal of the capacitor to the gate of the main transistor in response to a control signal. The charge circuit may include a resistor permanently connecting the second terminal of the capacitor to a power supply line. The capacitor and the resistor may form a high-pass filter having a cutoff frequency lower than the frequency of the analog signal.
US08648637B2 Slew rate boost circuit, output buffer having the same, and method thereof
A slew rate boost circuit for an output buffer and an output buffer circuit for a source driver having the same are provided. In an output buffer including a pull-up unit providing a buffer output signal in a first level by receiving a buffer input signal and performing pull-up operation and a pull-down unit providing a buffer output signal in a second level having opposite phase from the first level by receiving the buffer input signal and performing pull-down operation, the slew rate boost circuit includes a first comparator generating a first boost signal to boost pull-up operation of the pull-up unit of the output buffer by inputting a first input signal and a second input signal and a second comparator generating a second boost signal to boost pull-down operation of the pull-down unit of the output buffer by inputting the first input signal and the second input signal.
US08648635B2 Clock signal generators having a reduced power feedback clock path and methods for generating clocks
Memories, clock generators and methods for providing an output clock signal are disclosed. One such method includes delaying a buffered clock signal by an adjustable delay to provide an output clock signal, providing a feedback clock signal from the output clock signal, and adjusting a duty cycle of the buffered clock signal based at least in part on the feedback clock signal. An example clock generator includes a forward clock path configured to provide a delayed output clock signal from a clock driver circuit, and further includes a feedback clock path configured to provide a feedback clock signal based at least in part on the delayed output clock signal, for example, frequency dividing the delayed output clock signal. The feedback clock path further configured to control adjustment a duty cycle of the buffered input clock signal based at least in part on the feedback clock signal.
US08648633B1 Clock and data recovery circuit
The invention provides a clock and data recovery (CDR) circuit, including a phase locked loop (PLL) circuit, providing a reference voltage; a first delay device, delaying an input data so as to generate a first delay signal; an edge detector, generating an edge signal according to the first delay signal and the input data; a second delay device, delaying the edge signal according to a control signal so as to generate a second delay signal; a first gated voltage-controlled oscillator, generating an output recovery clock according to the second delay signal and the reference voltage; a phase detector, detecting a phase difference between the first delay signal and the output recovery clock so as to generate a phase signal and a output recovery data; and an amplifier, amplifying the phase signal by a factor so as to generate the control signal.
US08648632B2 Digital PLL circuit, semiconductor integrated circuit, and display apparatus
In a digital PLL circuit, a phase comparison circuit counts the numbers of transitions of a reference clock and an oscillation clock, sets a time taken until the number of transitions of the reference clock reaches a reference count value as a phase comparison time period, and detects, as a phase error value, a difference between a target count value, obtained based on a magnification value of a desired oscillating frequency with respect to the frequency of the reference clock and the reference count value, and the number of transitions of the oscillation clock in the phase comparison time period. A smoothing circuit smoothes the phase error value. A digitally-controlled oscillation circuit controls the frequency of the oscillation clock in accordance with the phase error value smoothed by the smoothing circuit.
US08648630B2 Systems and methods for driving transistors with high threshold voltages
System and method are provided for driving a transistor. The system includes a floating-voltage generator, a first driving circuit, and a second driving circuit. The floating-voltage generator is configured to receive a first bias voltage and generate a floating voltage, the floating-voltage generator being further configured to change the floating voltage if the first bias voltage changes and to maintain the floating voltage to be lower than the first bias voltage by a first predetermined value in magnitude. The first driving circuit is configured to receive an input signal, the first bias voltage and the floating voltage. The second driving circuit is configured to receive the input signal, a second bias voltage and a third bias voltage, the first driving circuit and the second driving circuit being configured to generate an output signal to drive a transistor.
US08648627B1 Programmable ultrasound transmit beamformer integrated circuit and method
An electrical waveform generating circuit has a programmable current source-driver. A digital switched current source is coupled to the programmable current source-driver and controlled by waveforms stored in the programmable current source-driver. A plurality of MOSFETs is coupled to the programmable current source driver. A first coupled inductor is connected to the plurality of high voltage MOSFETs. A transducer is coupled to the first coupled inductor.
US08648620B2 Programmable logic controller employing single-chip
A PLC includes a single-chip, a relay output module, an I/O module, a pulse output module, a relay, and a servo motor. The single chip includes a single-chip timer, a hardware watchdog, a 11.0592M crystal, and an A/D converter module. A system program is burned into an EEPROM of the single-chip. The relay connected to the relay output module. The servo motor is connected to the pulse output module. The system program includes a programming module and a control module. The programming module includes a main function and a function subroutine library, and the main function calls the subroutines of the function subroutine library. The control module scans the input signals from the I/O module during predetermined period, and then generates output signals according to the control commands generated by the programming module, to control output of the relay output module and the pulse output module.
US08648618B1 Method and module for judging status of power supplies
Method and module for judging status alterations of power supplies that are caused by changes of external power sources are provided. Through comparing first, second and third comparison voltages with a stabilized voltage of a voltage stabilization and energy storage element in a power factor correction unit, the status of the power supply can be judged, and an external power supply abnormal signal, a power supply abnormal signal or a power failure alert signal can be generated according to the status to allow a motherboard to perform loading regulation. The power failure alert signal is used to timely stop operation of the power supply, hence can resolve the problems of the conventional techniques such as delay notification, inaccurate judgment or complex composition of judgment circuit.
US08648616B2 Loaded printed circuit board test fixture and method for manufacturing the same
A test fixture for testing loaded printed circuit boards having a plurality of test points having a probe plate including an array of widely spaced high force spring test probes in compliant contact with solid translator pins located in a translator fixture removably positioned over the probe plate. The test fixture includes optimization software wherein translation of the test signals are optimized by providing the shortest interconnect distance in the x-y plane between the test points on the printed circuit board and the test probes in the probe plate. The fixture further includes an unpowered opens device for testing components on the loaded printed circuit board.
US08648612B2 Calibration of a distance measuring device
A device for using electromagnetic pulses to determine a distance to a surface includes a pulse generator, a real time sampler and a calibration unit having a signal generator for generating a calibration signal with a predefined frequency. In a calibration mode the real time sampler receives the calibration signal, and an average sample time delay of the sampler is determined based on the sampled calibration signal and the known calibration frequency. In a measurement mode, the real time sampler receives a reflection signal and the distance is determined based on a sampled reflection signal and the average sample time delay. Knowledge of the average delay of the sampler makes it possible to exactly determine the distance (in time and thus space) between two points in the sampled signal.
US08648611B2 RF sensing circuit with a voltage-controlled oscillator
An RF sensing circuit with a voltage-controlled oscillator comprises a low noise amplifier (LNA), a voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO), a frequency demodulating unit, a bandpass filter (BPF) and a digital signal processing unit. The VCO has an injection signal input port and a voltage input port, wherein the injection signal input port is electrically connected with an output of the LNA. The frequency demodulating unit is electrically connected with an output of the VCO and the BPF is electrically connected with an output of the frequency demodulating unit. The digital signal processing unit is electrically connected with an output of the BPF and the voltage input port of the VCO.
US08648607B2 Monitoring power usage
Disclosed are various embodiments for monitoring power usage. A plurality of power usage cycles are monitored using a controller. Each of the power usage cycles includes a plurality of current draw periods. Each of the current draw periods has a different average current draw. A current draw reading is determined to be abnormal when the current draw reading meets a threshold associated with one of the current draw periods, while the one of the current draw periods is predicted to be active. An action is performed when the current draw reading is determined to be abnormal.
US08648603B2 Deterioration degree calculating apparatus for secondary battery, vehicle equipped with the apparatus, and deterioration degree calculating method for secondary battery
A deterioration degree calculating apparatus for a secondary battery of the invention includes: obtaining a voltage value at a stop time of charge and discharge of a target secondary battery; obtaining a voltage value at a first start time of charge and discharge after that; obtaining an SOC of the target secondary battery at the stop time or at the start time; obtaining a length of an unused period from the stop time to the start time (an elapsed time); obtaining a self-discharge slope of the target secondary battery by dividing an absolute value of a difference between the voltage value at the start time and the voltage value at the stop time by the elapsed time; obtaining a temperature during an unused period by use of a self-discharge map in which the SOC and the self-discharge slope is recorded for each temperature; calculating a progress degree of deterioration of the target secondary battery during the unused period based on the obtained temperature and elapsed time; and accumulating the calculated deterioration progress degree to accurately calculate the deterioration degree of the secondary battery without continuously consuming electric power during the unused period.
US08648602B2 Battery impedance detection system, apparatus and method
Various aspects of the present disclosure are directed to monitoring battery cells. In accordance with various embodiments, an energy storage cell apparatus includes a current injection circuit that separately inject current into individual ones of a plurality of battery cells that store energy, and an impedance-detection circuit detects an impedance characteristic of each of the plurality of battery cells in response to the injected current. A filter circuit receives impedance data regarding the detected impedance characteristic and separates low-frequency components of the impedance data from high-frequency components of the impedance data. A memory circuit stores data corresponding to high-bandwidth data including both the low-frequency components and the high-frequency components, and an access circuit provides the low-frequency components for the plurality of battery cells to a battery pack controller. The access circuit further accesses and provides the stored high-bandwidth data for a subset of the individual battery cells to the battery pack controller based upon available bandwidth for communicating the high-bandwidth data.
US08648597B2 Antenna system and magnetic resonance imaging apparatus
An RF coil is provided with a hollow-shaped outer conductive element and strip-shaped conductive elements disposed along the outer conductive element in the axial direction. The strip-shaped conductive elements are disposed with uneven intervals to secure an internal space at a position where the strip-shaped conductive elements are not disposed. In order to obtain uniform sensitivity at the center section of the RF coil, the strip-shaped conductive elements and the outer conductive element are electrically connected via capacitors of which capacitances are adjusted so that a magnetic field component perpendicular to the center axis should be generated at a desired resonance frequency, and the strip-shaped conductive elements are axisymmetrically disposed with respect to the center axis of the outer conductive element. As a result, a comfortable examination space in a tunnel type MRI apparatus is achieved without increasing the manufacturing cost of the MRI apparatus.
US08648592B2 Semiconductor device components and methods
Semiconductor device components and methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, a semiconductor device component includes a conductive segment having a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface, a first end, and a second end opposite the first end. A first via is coupled to the second surface of the conductive segment at the first end. A second via is coupled to the first surface of the conductive segment at the second end, and a third via is coupled to the second surface of the conductive segment at the second end.
US08648589B2 Magnetoresistive sensor employing nitrogenated Cu/Ag under-layers with (100) textured growth as templates for CoFe, CoFeX, and Co2(MnFe)X alloys
A magnetoresistive sensor that has a free layer with a face centered cubic, 100 crystal orientation formed on an underlayer structure that has been deposited in the presence of nitrogen. The free layer can be constructed of CoFe, Co2(Mn(1-y)Fey)X (where 0≦y≦1 and X is Si, Ge, Sn, Al, Ga, or a combination thereof), CoFeX (where X is Si, Ge, Sn, Al, Ga, or a combination thereof). The under-layer can include a layer of Ta, a Cu layer formed over the layer of Ta and deposited using a process gas comprising about 20 percent nitrogen and a layer of Ag deposited over the layer of Cu and deposited using a process gas comprising about 50 to 100 percent nitrogen.
US08648586B2 Circuit for sensing load current of a voltage regulator
A circuit for sensing load current of a voltage regulator. The circuit includes a power transistor and a mirror transistor. A first transistor sizing circuit is coupled to the power transistor and is operable to control size of the power transistor based on a bias voltage of the power transistor, thereby regulating a first voltage for varying load conditions. The circuit also includes a feedback amplifier coupled to the power transistor and the mirror transistor. A transistor is coupled to the feedback amplifier and the mirror transistor. An analog to digital converter (ADC) is coupled to the transistor. A second transistor sizing circuit is coupled to the mirror transistor, the transistor, and the ADC. The second transistor sizing circuit is responsive to an output voltage to control size of the mirror transistor, thereby ensuring that accuracy of output voltage sensed by ADC is not limited by ADC's resolution.
US08648580B2 Regulator with high PSRR
A regulator for providing a low dropout voltage at an output node of the regulator is provided. An amplifier has a non-inverting input terminal for receiving an input voltage, an inverting input terminal and an output terminal. A first resistor is coupled between a ground and the inverting input terminal of the amplifier. A second resistor is coupled to the inverting input terminal of the amplifier. A first transistor is coupled between a voltage source and the second resistor. A current source coupled between the voltage source and a gate of the first transistor provides a bias current. A second transistor coupled between the first transistor and a current mirror has a gate coupled to the output terminal of the amplifier. The first and second transistors are different type MOS transistors. The replica unit generates the low dropout voltage according to a voltage of the output terminal of the amplifier.
US08648565B2 Power supply system of vehicle
A charging system of a vehicle for charging a vehicle-mounted power storage device includes a charger configured to receive electric power from a power supply external to the vehicle for charging the power storage device, a charging power sensing portion for sensing charging power supplied to the power storage device, and a charging control device for performing control on the charger by generating a power command value for the charger based on a target value. The charging control device detects a difference between charging power sensed by the charging power sensing portion and the target value and determines presence/absence of abnormality of the charger based on the detected difference.
US08648564B2 Power transmitting device
According to an embodiment, a power transmitting device includes a power supply unit, a power transmitting coil, a first switch, a piezoelectric element, and a first switch controller. The power supply unit is configured to generate a transmission power by using power supplied to a power input terminal. Once the first switch is turned on, the first switch electrically connects an external power supply and the power input terminal until the first switch is turned off next time. The piezoelectric element is disposed at a position at which a weight of a placed power receiving device can be detected. The piezoelectric element is configured to generate a detection power according to the weight of the placed power receiving device. The first switch controller is configured to generate a starting power by the detection power and switches the first switch to on by using the starting power.
US08648561B2 Method for driving a pulse width modulated controller
The present invention relates to a method for generating an electric control signal for controlling one or more switching elements of an inverter for driving an electric machine, such as a motor, the method comprising the steps of providing an electric control signal comprising a control frequency and a corresponding control period, dividing a first control period of said electric control signal into a plurality of switching periods, and providing a first switching PWM pulse within a first switching period of a first control period, and providing a second switching PWM pulse within a second switching period of said first control period, wherein the first switching PWM pulse is a minimum-filtered PWM pulse, and wherein the second switching PWM pulse is a corrected PWM pulse. The present invention further relates to an electronic control signal provided according to the before-mentioned method, and to an electronic control system for providing the before-mentioned method.
US08648551B2 Device for continuously reorienting a solar panel
A system and method are provided for continuously reorienting a solar panel array while maintaining a substantially stationary footprint for the solar panel. A cylindrically shaped knuckle is provided that is formed with a bottom surface and a top surface that is slanted relative to the bottom surface at a slant angle φ. One end of an upper pole is positioned against the top surface of the knuckle, and one end of a lower pole is positioned against the bottom surface of the knuckle. An upper and lower motor respectively connect the knuckle to the upper pole and the lower pole. These motors are used to continuously rotate the knuckle at an angular velocity ω relative to the upper and lower poles. When the knuckle rotates, the upper and lower poles remain stationary to allow the solar panel to continuously reorient while maintaining a substantially stationary footprint.
US08648550B2 Ambient light sensor auto-calibration in a lighting control system
A lighting system includes a master that controls a plurality of light fixtures via wireless RF communications. An ambient light sensor in the master is used to monitor total ambient light and to prevent excessive illumination. In an auto-calibration process, the master makes ambient light measurements A, B and C when the light fixtures are illuminating an area at a minimum setting, at a maximum setting, and at an intermediate setting, respectively. A first threshold is set to be approximately (B−A). A second threshold is set to be slightly larger than (B−A)+(B−C). In normal system operation, total ambient light measurements are taken and compared to the two thresholds. In one example, if detected brightness is lower than the first threshold then the system is set at its maximum illumination setting, whereas if detected brightness is greater than the second threshold then the system is set at its intermediate illumination setting.
US08648545B2 Reference voltage generating device, control device including the reference voltage generating device, and LED light emitting device using the control device
A control device and an LED light emitting device using the same are provided and technology of providing a high contrast ratio to the LED light emitting device and allowing the LED light emitting device to perform a stable operation is disclosed. The LED light emitting device includes a DC/DC converter reference voltage generator that generates a DC/DC converter reference voltage so that a minimum level of a channel voltage having a largest LED voltage drop agrees with a predetermined minimum reference voltage by detecting a plurality of channel voltages corresponding to LED voltage drops of each of a plurality of LED channels LED and an output voltage controller that controls an output voltage of the DC/DC converter using a distribution voltage corresponding to an output voltage and the DC/DC converter reference voltage.
US08648539B2 Multi-voltage and multi-brightness LED lighting devices and methods of using same
A single chip multi-voltage or multi-brightness LED lighting device having at least two LED circuits having at least two LEDs connected seπes, and electrically unconnected in a parallel relationship, a forward operating dπve voltage of at least six volts and are monolithically integrated on a single substrate, configurable by means of connecting the circuits so as to provide optional operating voltage level and/or desired brightness level wherein the electrical connection at the LED packaging level when the single chips are integrated into the LED package Alternatively, the LED package may have external electrical contacts that match the integrated chips within Optionally allowable, the drive voltage level and/or the brightness level select-ability may be passed on through to the exterior of the LED package and may be selected by the LED package user, the PCB assembly facility, or the end product manufacturer.
US08648530B2 Amalgam temperature maintaining device for dimmable fluorescent lamps
A fluorescent lighting device includes a ballast and a tube. An amalgam is located within the tube. A resistive heater is operatively coupled with the ballast, to receive electrical power from the ballast while the fluorescent lighting device is in an OFF state. The resistive heater is mounted near the amalgam to transfer heat to the amalgam while the fluorescent lighting device is in the OFF state.
US08648525B2 Transparent electrode, purifying method of conductive fibers employed in transparent electrode and organic electroluminescence element
Disclosed are a transparent electrode with excellent optical transmittance and conductivity, a purifying method of conductive fibers employed in the transparent electrode and an organic electroluminescence element with reduced luminance unevenness and long product lifetime employing the transparent electrode. The transparent electrode of the invention comprises a transparent substrate and provided thereon, a transparent conductive layer containing conductive fibers and a transparent conductive material, featured in that the content rate of conductive fibers with an aspect ratio of not less than 100 contained in the transparent conductive layer is 99.00% or more.
US08648519B2 Spark plug for internal combustion engine
A spark plug is provided with a ground electrode, a noble metal tip made of a Pt alloy, and a relieving layer tip made of a Pt alloy which has a linear expansion coefficient between that of the ground electrode and that of the noble metal tip.
US08648518B2 Compressor with snug perforated stator end-cover
A power driven component inside a compressor is disposed with a stator and rotors. The stator has an iron core in a circular ring and stator coils in a tightly wound manner. A vertical interval is formed between adjacent stator coils. A cover body is formed on the stator and a shield member that is formed with an upper portion along each stator coil and bending curve portions at two sides of the upper portion. Each bending curve portion is extended toward the interval from the upper portion. A sealed cover portion is connected between the bending curve portions of the upper portion and correspondingly seals each interval to reduce noise of the compressor and oil circulation rate.
US08648512B2 Generator with improved generation efficiency and rotational force
An improved generator for using waterpower, wave-power or wind-power, comprising; a set of magnet plates and coil plates for mounting on a rotating shaft in parallel, the magnets installed on the magnet plates and the generating coils installed on the coil plates with constant-intervals in radial direction, a plurality of blades obliquely installed on circumference of the magnet plates and coil plates with mutually opposite direction, an inner annular cylinder and outer annular cylinder mounted on the coil plates to form annular container for inserting the magnets. A plurality of induction coils installed on the inner annular cylinder, a plurality of electromotive coils installed on the outer annular cylinder for proximately contact with ends of the magnets. The magnet plates and coil plates rotate in mutually opposite direction to enhance the quality of generation and repulsive force. Thus, the rotational reaction force is continuously generated between the magnets and coil plates to enhance the rotational force.
US08648510B2 Actuator cover structure, actuator, and power transmitting apparatus
A cover structure of an actuator is provided in which a case of the actuator, which houses a conversion mechanism that converts input energy to mechanical motion, has a metal cover fastening portion and a cover member to which a metal fastening part that is fastened to the cover fastening portion is integrally attached. The cover member is formed by a metal cover portion and a resin cover portion. The metal cover portion has a center portion that covers part of the conversion mechanism, and an extended portion that extends from the center portion to the area near the metal fastening part so as to oppose the cover fastening portion. In this way, a vehicular power transmitting apparatus that discourages theft is provided by realizing an actuator with a strong cover fastening structure by making the fastening portion of the actuator be able to withstand intentionally inflicted damage without its weight being increased much.
US08648507B2 Stator assembly including a terminal block for an electric machine
An electric machine includes a housing having an outer surface and an inner surface that defines an interior portion. The housing also includes a connection zone having a first end portion that extends from the outer surface to a second end portion that is exposed to the interior portion. The connection zone includes a connection passage. A terminal block extends through the connection passage. The terminal block includes a non-electrically conductive member that is sealed against the connection passage, and an electrically conductive member covered by the non-electrically conductive member. The electrically conductive member includes a first end section that extends to a second end section through an intermediate section. The first end section has a first connection zone and the second end section has a second connection zone. The second connection zone is at an angle relative to the first connection zone.
US08648504B2 Vehicle drive motor
A vehicle drive motor, capable of efficiently cooling the motor stator without being accompanied by an increase in size, includes a stator having an annular stator core, provided in an inner periphery of a tubular motor casing, and a stator coil provided in the stator core, and a rotor on an inner side of the stator core and rotatable relative to the stator. The motor casing includes an oil supply passage and an oil discharge passage in the motor casing and opening at an inner diametric surface of the motor casing, which are opposite axially to each other. Stator core grooves communicated with the oil supply passage and the oil discharge passage extend axially in an outer diametric surface of the stator core. Accordingly, lubricant oil may flow from the oil supply passage towards the oil discharge passage through the stator core groove.
US08648503B2 Arrangement for acoustic decoupling of a stator of an electric motor
The invention relates to an arrangement for acoustic decoupling of a stator of an electric motor having two substantially cylindrical decoupling rings disposed on both sides of the stator and concentric to a motor shaft, each fixed to a front side of the stator on one side and each fixed to a housing enclosing the stator on the other side, and comprising recesses on the circumferential surfaces thereof. The decoupling rings hold the stator in a centered position at a distance from the housing. The recesses allow targeted acoustic decoupling. The invention is particularly applicable for electric motors in steering systems for motor vehicles.
US08648501B2 Systems and methods for providing protection circuitry to selectively handle multiple cable-types through the same port
This is generally directed to providing protection circuitry to selectively handle power-providing cables and headset cables that can couple to the same port of an electronic device. In some embodiments, the device can include a Headset Rx chip to communicate with the headset cable and a Power Rx chip to communicate with the power-providing cable. As the Headset Rx chip and the Power Rx chip can be coupled to the same contact of the device's port, these chips may prevent one another from operating correctly or may damage one another. Accordingly, in some embodiments, it can be determined whether a headset cable or a power-providing cable is coupled to the device. When a headset cable is coupled to the device, the protection circuitry can disconnect the Power Rx chip. Similarly, when a power-providing cable is coupled to the device, the protection circuitry can disconnect the Headset Rx chip.
US08648492B2 System and method of controlling a plurality of energy loads and energy supplies in a coordinated manner
The operation and/or power of a plurality of energy loads and/or energy supplies configured to supply power to the energy loads are managed in a coordinated manner. The coordinated control over the energy loads and/or energy supplies may enable the execution of missions including a one or more objectives by energy loads with an enhanced efficiency, autonomy, and/or effectiveness. Aspects of the planning and/or management of execution of the missions may be automated according to predetermined rules and/or criteria.
US08648483B2 Vertical axis wind turbine system
Wind turbine system. The system includes a lower wind speed vertical axis wind turbine operatively connected to a first electrical motor/generator and a higher wind speed vertical axis wind turbine operatively connected to at least one second electrical motor/generator. Electrical power from the first electrical motor/generator is directed to the at least one second electrical motor/generator and mag-lev system to cause the higher wind speed turbine to begin turning. A start-up assistance subsystem which acts like a local wind accelerator and produces a positive torque to assist in the start-up of a vertical axis wind turbine is also provided.
US08648482B2 Wind turbine, drive train assembly, wind turbine nacelle system, methods for converting rotational energy and methods for building a nacelle and for re-equipping a wind turbine
A wind turbine with a drive train connecting a drive unit with a generator assembly is provided. The generator assembly includes a first generator with a first stator and a first rotor, the first rotor being directly connected to the drive train, and at least a second generator indirectly coupled to the drive train via a gear box. Further, a drive train assembly, a wind turbine nacelle system, a method for converting rotational energy into electrical energy, a method of building a nacelle and methods of re-equipping a wind turbine are provided.
US08648474B2 Lead frame land grid array
A package includes a first plated area, a second plated area, a die attached to the first plated area, and a bond coupling the die to the second plated area. The package further includes a molding encapsulating the die, the bond, and the top surfaces of the first and second plated areas, such that the bottom surfaces of the first and second plated areas are exposed exterior to the package. Additional embodiments include a method of making the package.
US08648471B2 Nonvolatile semiconductor memory device including a via-hole with a narrowing cross-section and method of manufacturing the same
A nonvolatile semiconductor memory device comprises a semiconductor substrate; a cell array block formed on the semiconductor substrate and including plural stacked cell array layers each with a plurality of first lines, a plurality of second lines crossing the plurality of first lines, and memory cells connected at intersections of the first and second lines between both lines; and a plurality of via-holes extending in the stacked direction of the cell array layers to individually connect the first or second line in the each cell array layer to the semiconductor substrate. The via-holes are formed continuously through the plural cell array layers, and multiple via-holes having equal lower end positions and upper end positions are connected to the first or second lines in different cell array layers.
US08648470B2 Semiconductor device and method of forming FO-WLCSP with multiple encapsulants
A semiconductor device has a first semiconductor die including TSVs mounted to a carrier with a thermally releasable layer. A first encapsulant having a first coefficient of thermal expansion CTE is deposited over the first semiconductor die. The first encapsulant includes an elevated portion in a periphery of the first encapsulant that reduces warpage. A surface of the TSVs is exposed. A second semiconductor die is mounted to the surface of the TSVs and forms a gap between the first and second semiconductor die. A second encapsulant having a second CTE is deposited over the first and second semiconductor die and within the gap. The first CTE is greater than the second CTE. In one embodiment, the first and second encapsulants are formed in a chase mold. An interconnect structure is formed over the first and second semiconductor die.
US08648462B2 Semiconductor power module
A semiconductor power module includes an active element and a passive element serving as semiconductor elements each having a first electrode on a front surface and a second electrode on a back surface thereof, a heat pipe having a first region defined as arrangement parts of the active element and the passive element on its one end side and electrically connected to one of the first and second electrodes of the active element and the passive element arranged in the first region, a cooling fin arranged in a second region defined on the other end side of the heat pipe, and a heat pipe provided to sandwich the active element, the passive element, and the cooling fin arranged on the heat pipe along with the heat pipe and electrically connected to the other of the first and second electrodes of the active element and passive element.
US08648460B2 Thermal interface material with epoxidized nutshell oil
A thermal interface material comprises an epoxy resin derived from nutshell oil or an epoxidized dimer fatty acid, or both, and fusible metal particles substantially devoid of added lead. Optionally, the TIM comprises a catalyst for the epoxy functionality.
US08648457B2 Wiring pattern for touch integrated circuit
Electrodes on a touch sensor are connected with pins of an integrated circuit by wires. The wires connecting a first side of the integrated circuit go under the integrated circuit to the electrodes, and wires connecting a second side of the integrated circuit have segments extending away from the touch sensor under the integrated circuit.
US08648454B2 Wafer-scale package structures with integrated antennas
Wafer-scale packaging structures and methods are provided for integrally packaging antenna structures with semiconductor RFIC (radio frequency integrated circuit) chips to form compact integrated radio/wireless communications systems for millimeter wave (mmWave) and Terahertz (THz) applications. For example, a chip package includes an RFIC chip, an antenna structure and an interface layer. The RFIC chip includes a semiconductor substrate having an active surface and an inactive surface, and a BEOL (back end of line) structure formed on the active surface of the semiconductor substrate. The antenna structure includes an antenna substrate and a planar antenna radiator formed on a surface of the antenna substrate, wherein the antenna substrate is formed of a low loss semiconductor material. The interface layer connects the antenna structure to the BEOL structure of the RFIC chip.
US08648449B2 Electrical connectivity for circuit applications
According to example configurations herein, a leadframe includes a connection interface. The connection interface can be configured for attaching an electrical circuit to the leadframe. The leadframe also can include a conductive path. The conductive path in the leadframe provides an electrical connection between a first electrical node of the electrical circuit and a second electrical node of the electrical circuit. Prior to making the connection between the electrical circuit and the leadframe, the first electrical node and the second electrical node can be electrically isolated from each other. Subsequent to making connection of the electrical circuit with the leadframe, the conductive path of the leadframe electrically connects the first electrical node and the second electrical node together. Accordingly, the leadframe provides connectivity between nodes of an electrical circuit in lieu of having to provide such connectivity at, for example, a metal interconnect layer of an integrated circuit device.
US08648447B2 Semiconductor rectifier device
A semiconductor rectifier device using an SiC semiconductor at least includes: an anode electrode; an anode area that adjoins the anode electrode and is made of a second conductivity type semiconductor; a drift layer that adjoins the anode area and is made of a first conductivity type semiconductor having a low concentration; a minority carrier absorption layer that adjoins the drift layer and is made of a first conductivity type semiconductor having a higher concentration than that of the drift layer; a high-resistance semiconductor area that adjoins the minority carrier absorption layer, has less thickness than the drift layer and is made of a first conductivity type semiconductor having a concentration lower than that of the minority carrier absorption layer; a cathode contact layer that adjoins the semiconductor area; and a cathode electrode.
US08648442B2 Semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the same
A semiconductor device having a transistor circuit and a bleeder resistance circuit is provided in which fluctuations in resistance value of a bleeder resistor are reduced. In the transistor circuit, a barrier metal film and a interconnect film are layered as a metal film on an interlayer insulating film above transistor structure. In the bleeder resistance circuit, the interconnect film is layered as a metal film on the interlayer insulating film above the bleeder resistor formed from polysilicon film. Alternatively, the metal film in the bleeder resistance circuit includes the barrier metal film only in a portion where the metal film is connected to the bleeder resistor. This reduces stress to the bleeder resistor formed from a polysilicon film, and the resistance value of the bleeder resistor accordingly fluctuates less. In addition, since the metal film used as interconnect of the transistor circuit includes the barrier metal film, interconnect reliability is not impaired.
US08648437B2 Trench sidewall contact Schottky photodiode and related method of fabrication
A Schottky photodiode may include a monocrystalline semiconductor substrate having a front surface, a rear surface, and a first dopant concentration and configured to define a cathode of the Schottky photodiode, a doped epitaxial layer over the front surface of the monocrystalline semiconductor substrate having a second dopant concentration less than the first dopant concentration, and parallel spaced apart trenches in the doped epitaxial layer and having of a depth less than a depth of the doped epitaxial layer. The Schottky photodiode may include a metal filler in the parallel spaced apart trenches to form a Schottky rectifying contact with the doped epitaxial layer, an anode current distributor metal layer on a surface of the doped epitaxial layer and in electrical contact with the metal filler of the parallel spaced apart trenches, a dielectric passivation layer on the anode current distributor metal layer, and a conductive metal layer over the rear surface of the monocrystalline semiconductor substrate and configured to provide an ohmic contact with the cathode.
US08648429B2 Semiconductor having chip stack, semiconductor system, and method of fabricating the semiconductor apparatus
In one embodiment, a semiconductor device includes a plurality of semiconductor chip stacks mounted on a substrate. Bonding terminals disposed on the substrate correspond to the chip stacks, such that at least one chip in each chip stack may be directly connected to a bonding terminal on the substrate and at least one chip in the chip stack is not directly connected to the bonding terminal. The semiconductor chip stacks may each act as one semiconductor device to the outside.
US08648427B2 Electronic device including an integrated circuit with transistors coupled to each other
An electronic device, including an integrated circuit, can include a buried conductive region and a semiconductor layer overlying the buried conductive region, wherein the semiconductor layer has a primary surface and an opposing surface lying closer to the buried conductive region. The electronic device can also include a first doped region and a second doped region spaced apart from each other, wherein each is within the semiconductor layer and lies closer to primary surface than to the opposing surface. The electronic device can include current-carrying electrodes of transistors. A current-carrying electrode of a particular transistor includes the first doped region and is a source or an emitter and is electrically connected to the buried conductive region. Another current-carrying electrode of a different transistor includes the second doped region and is a drain or a collector and is electrically connected to the buried conductive region.
US08648424B2 Semiconductor device including transistors having embedded source/drain regions each including upper and lower main layers comprising germanium
A semiconductor device includes a substrate having a channel region, a gate insulation layer on the channel region, a gate electrode on the gate insulation layer, and source and drain regions in recesses in the substrate on both sides of the channel region, respectively. The source and drain regions include a lower main layer whose bottom surface is located at level above the bottom of a recess and lower than that of the bottom surface of the gate insulation layer, and a top surface no higher than the level of the bottom surface of the gate insulation layer, and an upper main layer contacting the lower main layer and whose top surface extends to a level higher than that of the bottom surface of the gate insulation layer, and in which the lower layer has a Ge content higher than that of the upper layer.
US08648423B2 Semiconductor devices including buried-channel-array transistors
Provided is a semiconductor device in which a short margin between a storage contact plug and a bit line contact plug may be increased. The device includes a substrate including isolation regions and active regions defined by the isolation regions, gates disposed in the substrate and configured to intersect the active regions and define source regions and drain regions in the active regions, an interlayer insulating layer disposed on the substrate, bit line contact plugs configured to penetrate the interlayer insulating layer and contact the drain regions, and first bit line structures and second bit line structures disposed on the interlayer insulating layer. The first bit line structures include first bit line conductive patterns and first bit line spacers covering sidewalls of the first bit line conductive patterns. The second bit line structures include second bit line conductive patterns configured to contact the bit line contact plugs to be substantially parallel to the first bit line conductive patterns and first bit line spacers covering sidewalls of the second bit line conductive patterns and sidewalls of the bit line contact plugs.
US08648420B2 Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device includes an input/output pad, and a data transfer unit configured to form a parasitic diode between the input/output pad and a power supply terminal thereof to discharge an introduced electrostatic discharge (ESD), and form a data transfer path between the input/output pad and an internal circuit in response to a control signal.
US08648418B2 Controlled localized defect paths for resistive memories
Controlled localized defect paths for resistive memories are described, including a method for forming controlled localized defect paths including forming a first electrode forming a metal oxide layer on the first electrode, masking the metal oxide to create exposed regions and concealed regions of a surface of the metal oxide, and altering the exposed regions of the metal oxide to create localized defect paths beneath the exposed regions.
US08648397B2 Semiconductor device, active matrix substrate and display device
A switching element (a semiconductor device) (18) having a top gate electrode (21) and a bottom gate electrode (23) is provided with a silicon layer (a semiconductor layer) (SL) that is arranged between the top gate electrode (21) and the bottom gate electrode (a light-shielding film) (23) and that has a source region (24), a drain region (28), a channel region (26), and low-concentration impurity regions (25, 27). Furthermore, the bottom gate electrode (23) is arranged so as to overlap the channel region (26), a part of the low-concentration impurity region (25), which is adjacent to the source region (24), and a part of the low-concentration impurity region (27), which is adjacent to the drain region (28). The bottom gate electrode (23) is controlled so as to have a prescribed potential.
US08648389B2 Semiconductor device with spacer layer between carrier traveling layer and carrier supplying layer
A nitride semiconductor device is disclosed. The device includes a stack of semiconductor layers including the channel layer, the spacer layer, and the doped layer. The spacer layer is made of AlN while the doped layer is InAlN. A feature of the embodiment is that the spacer layer has a thickness of 0.5 to 1.25 nm.
US08648382B2 Planar light emitting device having structure for brightness uniformity and a compact area of non-light emitting part
Planar light emitting device includes: anode and cathode feeding parts formed on first surface side of transparent substrate and electrically connected to quadrilateral planar anode and cathode, respectively; quadrilateral frame shaped anode auxiliary electrode formed at the whole circumference of surface of the planar anode; anode feeding auxiliary electrode integrally and continuously formed to the auxiliary electrode and laminated on anode feeding part. Light emitting part is formed of a region where only organic layer intervenes between the planar anode and cathode. Distance between predetermined two parallel sides of the four sides of the light emitting part and the peripheral border of the transparent substrate is smaller than distance between the other two parallel sides and the peripheral border. The cathode and anode feeding parts are located along said other two parallel sides. The anode feeding part is located at each side, in width direction, of the cathode feeding part.
US08648374B2 Light emitting diode device including a heat-radiation/light-reflection member
A light emitting diode device includes: a cathode lead frame; an anode lead frame which is electrically insulated from the cathode lead frame; a light emitting diode chip which is electrically connected to the cathode lead frame and the anode lead frame respectively; a synthetic resin member which forms an indentation receiving the light emitting diode chip and fixes the cathode lead frame and the anode lead frame; and a metallic heat-radiation/light-reflection member which covers at least a portion of the indentation and covers an upper surface of the synthetic resin member.
US08648364B2 Flat panel display including an opaque film to block an eternal light reflected from a thin film transistor (TFT) and a capacitor
A flat panel display with a black matrix and a fabrication method of the same. The flat panel display has an insulating substrate at the upper part of which a pixel electrode is equipped; an opaque conductive film formed on the front surface of the insulating substrate except at the pixel electrode; an insulating film equipped with a contact hole exposing a portion of the opaque conductive film; and a thin film transistor equipped with a gate electrode, and conductive patterns for source/drain electrodes connected to the opaque conductive film through the contact hole.
US08648356B2 Light emitting diode for harsh environments
A light emitting diode for harsh environments includes a substantially transparent substrate, a semiconductor layer deposited on a bottom surface of the substrate, several bonding pads, coupled to the semiconductor layer, formed on the bottom surface of the substrate, and a micro post, formed on each bonding pad, for electrically connecting the light emitting diode to a printed circuit board. An underfill layer may be provided between the bottom surface of the substrate and the top surface of the printed circuit board, to reduce water infiltration under the light emitting diode substrate. Additionally, a diffuser may be mounted to a top surface of the light emitting diode substrate to diffuse the light emitted through the top surface.
US08648355B2 Semiconductor light emitting device having one or more recesses on a layer
Disclosed is a semiconductor light emitting device. The semiconductor light emitting device comprises a substrate; a light emitting structure comprising a first conductive semiconductor layer, an active layer and a second conductive semiconductor layer on the substrate; an electrode layer on the second conductive semiconductor layer; and an electrode on the electrode layer, wherein the substrate comprises a plurality of convex portions, wherein the electrode layer comprises a plurality of holes corresponding to a region of at least one of the plurality of convex portions of the substrate, wherein an insulating material is disposed in the plurality of holes on the light emitting structure.
US08648351B2 Epitaxial substrate and method for manufacturing epitaxial substrate
Provided is a crack-free epitaxial substrate having excellent breakdown voltage properties in which a silicon substrate is used as a base substrate thereof. The epitaxial substrate includes: a (111) single crystal Si substrate and a buffer layer including a plurality of composition modulation layers each formed of a first composition layer made of AlN and a second composition layer made of AlxGa1-xN (0≦x<1) being alternately laminated. The relationship of x(1)≧x(2)≧ . . . ≧x(n−1)≧x(n) and x(1)>x(n) is satisfied, where n represents the number of laminations of each of the first and the second composition layer, and x(i) represents the value of x in i-th one of the second composition layers as counted from the base substrate side. Each of the second composition layers is formed so as to be in a coherent state relative to the first composition layer.
US08648348B2 Light emitting device, light emitting device package, and lighting system
Provided is a light emitting device according to one embodiment including: a substrate which has protrusions on the C-face, and of which unit cells are constructed in a hexagonal structure; a semiconductor layer which is formed on the substrate, in which empty spaces are formed in sides of the protrusions, and of which unit cells are constructed in a hexagonal structure; and a light emitting structure layer comprising a first conductive semiconductor layer, a second conductive semiconductor layer, and an active layer formed between the first conductive semiconductor layer and second conductive semiconductor layer which are formed on the semiconductor layer, wherein the A-face of the substrate and the A-face of the semiconductor layer form an angle of greater than zero degree, and the protrusions include the R-faces.
US08648336B2 Method for fabrication of layered heterojunction polymeric devices
Method for growing multilayer polymer based hetexjunction devices which uses selective breaking of C—H or Si—H bonds without breaking other bonds leading to fast curing for the production of layered polymer devices having polymer heterojunctions deposited by the common solution-based deposition methods.
US08648335B2 Organic light emitting diode display
An organic light emitting diode display includes: a substrate; a first electrode positioned on the substrate; an organic layer positioned on the first electrode; a transflective layer positioned on the organic layer; an organic emission layer positioned on the transflective layer; and a second electrode positioned on the organic emission layer.
US08648330B2 Nanowire field effect transistors
A method for forming a nanowire field effect transistor (FET) device includes forming a nanowire over a substrate, forming a liner material around a portion of the nanowire, forming a capping layer on the liner material, forming a first spacer adjacent to sidewalls of the capping layer and around portions of the nanowire, forming a hardmask layer on the capping layer and the first spacer, removing an exposed portion of the nanowire to form a first cavity partially defined by the gate material, epitaxially growing a semiconductor material on an exposed cross section of the nanowire in the first cavity, removing the hardmask layer and the capping layer, forming a second capping layer around the semiconductor material epitaxially grown in the first cavity to define a channel region, and forming a source region and a drain region contacting the channel region.
US08648315B1 Accelerator having a multi-channel micro-collimator
An ion accelerator includes a plasma ion source and a micro-collimator. The micro-collimator has a plurality of channels. The length-to-width ratio of each channel is greater than five, and the channel width is less than one micron. The ion source is coupled to the micro-collimator such that ions from the ion source pass into the channels, and then through the plurality of channels. In one specific example, the ion source produces cold ions that have only a small amount of lateral momentum. Each channel is an individually gated acceleration channel that is formed into a solid dielectric material. Ions are accelerated down the acceleration channel. The ion accelerator forms a part of an ionjet head of a Direct Write On Wafer (DWOW) printing system. The DWOW printing system is useful in semiconductor processing in that it can direct write an image onto a 300 mm diameter wafer in one minute.
US08648314B1 Fast neutron imaging device and method
A fast neutron imaging apparatus and method of constructing fast neutron radiography images, the apparatus including a neutron source and a detector that provides event-by-event acquisition of position and energy deposition, and optionally timing and pulse shape for each individual neutron event detected by the detector. The method for constructing fast neutron radiography images utilizes the apparatus of the invention.
US08648303B2 Compact infrared light detector and method for producing the same, and an infrared light detector system comprising the infrared light detector
An infrared light detector having a sensor chip (4), which includes a thin-film element (5) made from a pyroelectrically sensitive material, having an electrical insulator (27), at least one electronic component (17, 18) having a thin-film design, which forms part of a readout electronics unit, and a thin-film membrane (2), on which the sensor chip (4) and the electronic component (17, 18) are mounted side by side in an integrated manner such that the electronic component (17, 18) is electrically conductively coupled to the thin-film element (5). A signal amplifier (22), with which, in co-operation with the electronic component (17, 18), an electrical signal emitted from the sensor chip (4) can be amplified, can be connected to the electronic component (17, 18).
US08648302B2 Thermal detector, thermal detection device, electronic instrument, and thermal detector manufacturing method
A thermal detector includes a substrate; a support member supported on the substrate with a cavity interposed therebetween; a heat-detecting element formed on the support member; a first light-absorbing layer formed on the heat-detecting element and the support member so as to be in contact with the heat-detecting element; and a second light-absorbing layer formed on the first light-absorbing layer so as to be in contact with the first light-absorbing layer. The second light-absorbing layer has a higher refractive index than the first light-absorbing layer. A first wavelength resonates between a surface of the support member and an upper surface of the second light-absorbing layer, and a second wavelength, which is different from the first wavelength, resonates between an interface, at which the first light-absorbing layer and the second light-absorbing layer are in contact with each other, and the upper surface of the second light-absorbing layer.
US08648288B2 Pixels, imagers and related fabrication methods
Pixels, imagers and related fabrication methods are described. The described methods result in cross-talk reduction in imagers and related devices by generating depletion regions. The devices can also be used with electronic circuits for imaging applications.
US08648285B2 Remotely guided gun-fired and mortar rounds
A system for guiding a gun-fired or mortared round towards an intended target, the system including a round having: a forward facing image pick-up device for capturing image data; a first transceiver; guidance device for varying a flight path of the round; and a first processor. The system further including a control platform remotely located from the round, the control platform having: a second transceiver; a second processor; an input device; and a display. Where the first processor transmits image data from the image pick-up device through the first transceiver to the second processor through the second transceiver, the second processor transmits guidance information from the second transceiver to the first processor through the first transceiver and the first processor controls the guidance device based on the guidance information to guide the round towards the intended target.
US08648284B2 Composite materials and devices comprising single crystal silicon carbide heated by electromagnetic radiation
A composite material that increases in temperature upon exposure to electromagnetic radiation includes single crystal silicon carbide whiskers and fibrils in a matrix material. Also disclosed are heat-generating objects that include the composite material, and a method of generating heat.
US08648283B2 Insulator for electric heater and heat assembly with the same in washing machine
An insulator for an electric heater is configured to allow a heater coil to expand/contract uniformly, and permit an easy fitting of the heater coil thereto. The insulator includes a body part formed of an insulating material, a coil seating part at an end of the body part for supporting the heater coil, and a seating slot between the coil seating part and the body part for inserting the heat coil.
US08648269B2 Keyless solenoid release unit
A electrically operated blocking device used to block the operation of electrical or mechanical equipment without using a system of deadbolt locks, keys, and electrically operated key traps. The electrically operated blocking device preferably includes a blocking shaft used to block the operation of electrical equipment such as, e.g., switches, circuit breakers and other similar electrical equipment, or mechanical equipment such as, e.g., valves, cams, gears, doors or any moving device or device operator, and preferably includes a keyless solenoid release unit (KSRU) used to control a plunger that locks the blocking shaft into place and unlocks the blocking shaft to allow the blocking shaft to move freely along its axis.
US08648268B2 Electro-mechanical microwave switch
A switch for selectively routing electrical signals, particularly microwave signals, in a printed circuit board includes a rotatable contact that is connected to a shaft. A first motor is configured to rotate the shaft and a second motor is configured to axially move the shaft to lift the contact from the printed circuit board. A position controller produces driving signals that are received by the first and second motors to lift the contact from the printed circuit board, rotate the contact to a desired position and lower the contact to the circuit board.
US08648267B2 Weight measurement device with load transmission member whose position is changeable
A weight measurement device has a housing that includes a base, a platform located above the base and on which a subject is placed or stands, and a chamber defined by the base and the platform. At least one load cell is contained in the chamber and is supported by the base. A load transmission member is located between the platform and the load cell. A bracket is fixed to the base. An elastic deformation part is located around the load transmission member and connected to the bracket and to the load transmission member. The elastic deformation part has an elasticity that is greater than that of the load transmission member, and allows the load transmission member to change in position with respect to the bracket when force is transmitted from the platform via the load transmission member to the load cell.
US08648266B2 Multiple force-measuring device, force-measuring module, and method for monitoring a condition of the multiple force-measuring device
A multiple force-measuring device, especially a multiple weighing device has at least two force-measuring modules. Each force-measuring module includes a force-measuring cell and a power delivery means. The power delivery means of at least one of the force-measuring modules in this arrangement is connected, directly or through a junction element, to a control cable that is connected to a power supply unit. The force-measuring modules are connected directly to each other through a module-connection cable that transfers electrical power therebetween.
US08648263B2 Wiring board and method of manufacturing wiring board
A wiring board and a method of forming a wiring board including a first substrate, a second substrate having a smaller mounting area than a mounting area of the first substrate, and a base substrate laminated between the first substrate and the second substrate such that the first substrate extends beyond an edge of the second substrate. An IVH (Interstitial Via Hole) penetrates the base substrate.
US08648261B2 Printed circuit board
A printed circuit board comprises a circuit substrate, an electrically conductive cloth structure, and a shielding structure. The circuit substrate comprises a base layer, a grounded circuit layer, and a connecting pad formed on the grounded circuit layer. The cloth structure comprises an anisotropic conductive adhesive connected to the connecting pad, an insulating layer, and a metallic deposition layer arranged between the anisotropic conductive adhesive and the insulating layer. The shielding structure comprises a shielding metal layer, an adhesive matrix, and a number of electrically conductive particles electrically connected to the shielding metal layer. The insulating layer defines a number of through holes corresponding to the particles, the particles is arranged in the through holes respectively and electrically connected the metallic deposition layer and the shielding metal layer. A method for manufacturing the above PCB is also provided.
US08648259B2 Accordion-style grommet with shape-influencing stiffeners
A grommet for housing electrical wires constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure includes a mounting structure, a tube, and a plurality of stiffeners. The mounting structure is configured to mount to a panel of a vehicle, the mounting structure defining a first passage extending therethrough. The tube extends from the mounting structure and defines a second passage in communication with the first passage. The tube includes a corrugated portion having a plurality of ridges and a plurality of grooves interposed between the plurality of ridges. The stiffeners are interposed between those of the plurality of ridges that are disposed within a zone of the corrugated portion. The stiffeners extend partially around a circumference of the tube.
US08648257B2 Insulation material composition for DC power cable and the DC power cable using the same
An insulation material composition for a direct current (DC) power cable and the DC power cable using the same are provided. A direct current (DC) power cable insulation material composition includes 0.5 to 5 parts by weight of surface-modified nano-sized cubic magnesium oxide, per 100 parts by weight of a polyethylene base resin.
US08648253B1 Machine and process for continuous, sequential, deposition of semiconductor solar absorbers having variable semiconductor composition deposited in multiple sublayers
A method of manufacture of I-III-VI-absorber photovoltaic cells involves sequential deposition of films comprising one or more of silver and copper, with one or more of aluminum indium and gallium, and one or more of sulfur, selenium, and tellurium, as compounds in multiple thin sublayers to form a composite absorber layer. In an embodiment, the method is adapted to roll-to-roll processing of photovoltaic cells. In an embodiment, the method is adapted to preparation of a CIGS absorber layer having graded composition through the layer of substitutions such as tellurium near the base contact and silver near the heterojunction partner layer, or through gradations in indium and gallium content. In a particular embodiment, the graded composition is enriched in gallium at a base of the layer, and silver at the top of the layer. In an embodiment, each sublayer is deposited by co-evaporation of copper, indium, gallium, and selenium, which react in-situ to form CIGS.
US08648248B2 Photovoltaic assemblies incorporating an optical element having internal inclusions configured for maximum conversion efficiency
A photovoltaic assembly includes an optical element comprising a body having opposed planar major surfaces with a plurality of open-mouthed inclusions (grooves) formed on the light output surface. Each groove has a closed apex with an included apex angle. The body is formed from a material having an index of refraction of at least 1.3 and an induced absorbance rate ΔAbs/Dose less than or equal to about 0.4. The optical element is attached to a photovoltaic cell using an adhesive having an index of refraction in the range from about 1.34 to 1.50. The apex angle is selected such that light incident upon the body is conveyed the light output surface by the mechanism of total internal reflection from the boundary walls of the grooves and/or without retro-reflection toward the incident surface. The thickness of the adhesive layer and the dimension of the mouth of the grooves are selected such that light incident on the surface of the photovoltaic cell is not obscured by conductor lines on the cell's surface.
US08648245B1 AMTEC power system with thermal block
An AMTEC power system including a housing that defines a cold chamber and a hot chamber, an insulative material disposed between the cold chamber and the hot chamber, the insulative material including carbon foam, and at least one AMTEC cell received in the housing, the AMTEC cell extending into both the cold chamber and the hot chamber.
US08648241B2 Key determination apparatus and storage medium storing key determination program
A manipulator information obtaining unit obtains at least a note name corresponding to a manipulator manipulated. A storage device includes a register configured to store at least possible note names, note names in a history of manipulators manipulated, and key candidates, and a first table configured to store diatonic scale notes for each of the key candidates. A key determination unit compares the note names in a history of manipulators manipulated with the diatonic scale notes for each of the key candidates and determines whether there is a key candidate in which all of the note names in the history of the manipulators coincide with any of the diatonic scale notes of the key candidate, thereby determining a key of a musical composition played by the manipulation of the manipulators, and storing the determined key in the register.
US08648230B2 Regulatory regions preferentially expressing in non-pollen plant tissue
Regulatory regions are shown which regulate expression of an operably linked heterologous nucleic acid molecule in plants. Promoters are described which express at lower levels in pollen cells that in other plant cells. Methods of using such promoter to regulate expression of an operably linked nucleic acid molecule are described. A polyadenylation nucleotide sequence from soybean is further shown.
US08648228B2 MSCA1 nucleotide sequences impacting plant male fertility and method of using same
Nucleotide sequences of a Msca1 gene, critical to male fertility in plants are described, with DNA molecule and amino acid sequences set forth. Promoter sequences and their essential regions are also identified. The nucleotide sequences are useful in impacting male fertility in plants.
US08648220B2 Process for producing ethanol using a crude vinyl acetate feed
Converting a crude vinyl acetate feed to ethanol by hydrogenating the acetic acid and ethyl acetate in the crude vinyl acetate feed. The crude vinyl acetate feed may comprise acetic acid and/or ethyl acetate, as well as vinyl acetate and minor amounts of vinyl propionate. The crude vinyl acetate feed may be obtained from an azeotrope column as either a sidestream or a bottom stream in a vinyl acetate production process.
US08648219B2 Method for purifying glycerin and products obtained therefrom
A method and system for purifying crude glycerin is provided in which a mixture is formed by blending glycerin, water, an organic solvent, and an acid. The acid being capable of reacting with soap impurities to form lipids that are soluble in the organic solvent and ionic salts that are soluble in the glycerin and water. Liquid-liquid extraction separates and partitions the organic solvents and lipids away from the glycerin, water, and ionic salts with the organic solvent and lipids being reclaimed for future use. Any residual trace amount of organic solvent that remains in the glycerin and water is separated and removed through the use of a clarifier system, with the formation of micro-bubbles arising from a diffuser facilitating the separation. Prior to collection of the purified glycerin product, the ionic salts are removed from the mixture through the use of an ionic exchange resin, electrodialysis, or electrodeionization, followed by the water being removed by evaporation. The resulting purified glycerin exhibits a purity level on the order of about 99.7% or more.
US08648216B2 Synthetic navel orangeworm pheromone composition and methods relating to production of same
One or more embodiments of the invention are directed to the synthetic methods for making lepidopteran pheromones including navel orangeworm pheromones. The synthetic methods involve novel, efficient, and environmentally benign steps and procedures.
US08648214B2 Processes suitable for the preparation of salmeterol
The present invention relates to processes for the preparation of 4-hydroxy-α′-[[[6-(4-phenylbutoxy)hexyl]amino]methyl]-1,3-benzenedimethanol 1-hydroxy-2-naphthoate (salmeterol xinafoate) (12a), the preparation of 4-hydroxy-α′-[[[6-(4-phenylbutoxy)hexyl]amino]methyl]-1,3-benzenedimethanol (salmeterol) (11), the preparation of protected N-[6-(4-phenylbutoxy)hexyl]amine intermediates (7), and the preparation of 6-substituted (4-phenylbutoxy)hexane intermediates (5), shown below, wherein X is a leaving group and Pg is a protecting group.
US08648212B2 Process for preparing solutions of radiation-sensitive, free-radically polymerizable organic compounds
A description is given of a process for preparing solutions of radiation-sensitive, free-radically polymerizable organic compounds, where a first starting compound, which has an acid halide group, and a second starting compound, which has an alcoholic hydroxyl group, are esterified with one another in a solvent or in a solvent mixture. The solvent comprises one or more ketones having a boiling point of below 150° C. under atmospheric pressure (1 bar), or the solvent mixture is composed to an extent of at least 50% by weight of said ketones. One of the two starting compounds has at least one radiation-sensitive group and the other of the two starting compounds has at least one ethylenically unsaturated, free-radically polymerizable group. A description is also given of corresponding solutions of radiation-sensitive, free-radically polymerizable organic compounds and of their use for preparing radiation-crosslinkable, free-radically copolymerized copolymers, more particularly for hotmelt pressure-sensitive adhesives or aqueous polymer dispersions.
US08648210B2 Method for purifying lipid material
The present invention relates to a method for purification of lipid material originating from biological material. In the method the lipid material comprising acylglycerols and phosphorus impurities and at least one added nonpolar solvent and at least one added polar solvent is provided into a reaction zone whereby at least a two phase system comprising a nonpolar phase and a polar phase is formed. The phase system is heated in the closed reaction zone under mixing at a temperature from 150° C. to 300° C. and at a pressure wherein said solvents are in subcritical state, preferably of below 100 bar, dependent on the vapor pressure of the selected solvents, until the phosphorus impurity is removed from the polar phase. Subsequently, the nonpolar phase including the purified oil comprising acylglycerols is separated and recovered from said phase system.
US08648205B2 Metal complexes of N-heterocyclic carbenes
The present invention generally relates to metal complexes of N-heterocyclic carbenes that contain one or more additional active moieties and/or groups therein. In one embodiment, the present invention relates to metal complexes of N-heterocyclic carbenes that contain an anti-fungal and/or anti-microbial moiety and/or group in combination with one or more additional active moieties and/or groups selected from fluoroquinolone compounds or derivatives thereof; steroids or derivatives thereof; anti-inflammatory compounds or derivatives thereof; anti-fungal compounds or derivatives thereof; anti-bacterial compounds or derivatives thereof; antagonist compounds or derivatives thereof; H2 receptor compounds or derivatives thereof; chemotherapy compounds or derivatives thereof; tumor suppressor compounds or derivatives thereof; or C1 to C16 alkyl heteroatom groups where the heterotatom is selected from S, O, or N. In still another embodiment, the present invention relates to metal complexes of N-heterocyclic carbenes that contain an anti-fungal and/or anti-microbial moiety and/or group in combination with two or more additional active moieties and/or groups selected from fluoroquinolone compounds or derivatives thereof; steroids or derivatives thereof; anti-inflammatory compounds or derivatives thereof; anti-fungal compounds or derivatives thereof; anti-bacterial compounds or derivatives thereof; antagonist compounds or derivatives thereof; H2 receptor compounds or derivatives thereof; chemotherapy compounds or derivatives thereof; tumor suppressor compounds or derivatives thereof; or C1 to C16 alkyl heteroatom groups where the heterotatom is selected from S, O, or N.
US08648202B2 Bis(perfluoroalkyl)phosphinous acids and derivatives and use thereof
The invention relates to bis(perfluoroalkyl)phosphinous acids, bis(perfluoroalkyl)thiophosphinous acids and derivatives, the synthesis thereof and the use thereof, in particular for the synthesis of air-stable metal complexes for catalytic processes.
US08648198B2 Phenylethanolamine-based NMDA receptor antagonists
Described herein are enhanced N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonists, pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and their methods of use and treatment, e.g., of Formula (I): wherein one or more of R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, or the ring formed by the joining of R1 and R2, is a hydrophobic moiety which confers enhanced antagonist activity as compared to existing NMDA receptor antagonists, e.g., ifenprodil. Compounds described herein are designed based on the discovery that ifenprodil binds within the allosteric domain of the GluN1/GluN2B NMDA receptor, particularly at the interface between GluN1 and GluN2B subunits. In silico methods are further described herein.
US08648192B2 2-oxo-1,2-dihydropyridin-4-ylboronic acid derivatives
The present invention relates to a compound of formula (I) wherein R1, R2 and n are as defined herein. The invention also relates to processes for making the compounds of formula (I) and methods of using the compounds of formula (I) as reagents in organic synthesis.
US08648190B2 Process for producing 2-hydroxymethylmorpholine salt
The invention relates to a production method of a 2-hydroxymethylmorpholine salt, which includes crystallization from a solution containing 2-hydroxymethylmorpholine of formula (1) 1,4-oxazepane compound of formula (2) and an acid.
US08648177B2 Lyophilization methods, compositions, and kits
Method for lyophilization is provided, in particular methods for lyophilization of formulations comprising AT III. Also provided are compositions prepared by therefrom. Also provided are kits comprising the compositions and/or lyophilized products.
US08648167B1 Polymer scaffold degradation control via chemical control
A variety of polymers and copolymers suitable for use as biologically compatible constructs and, as a non-limiting specific example, in the formation of degradable tissue scaffolds as well methods for synthesizing these polymers and copolymers are described. The polymers and copolymers have degradation rates that are substantially faster than those of previously described polymers suitable for the same uses. Copolymers having a synthesis route which enables one to fine tune the degradation rate by selecting the specific stoichiometry of the monomers in the resulting copolymer are also described. The disclosure also provides a novel synthesis route for maleoyl chloride which yields monomers suitable for use in the copolymer synthesis methods described herein.
US08648162B2 Adherence substance, pressure sensitive adhesive sheet and its use
To provide an adherence substance which has a low viscosity and good coatability, can be made solvent free, has a low adhesive strength, of which increase with time is small, has good adhesion to a substrate, has excellent adhesion to an adherend and excellent removability, and has a good wettability. An adherence substance which is obtained by curing a curable composition comprising a silyl group-containing polymer (S) obtained by introducing a hydrolyzable silyl group to a molecular terminal of a polyurethane prepolymer obtained by reacting a polyol compound with a polyisocyanate compound, and which has a peel adhesive strength of at most 8N/25 mm.
US08648161B2 Polyacrylic acid (salt) -based water-absorbent resin and a method for producing it
The purpose of the present invention is to improve the water absorption of a water-absorbent resin without sacrificing the productivity, production cost, safety, and so on. Provided is a sustainable and renewable water-absorbent resin with excellent whiteness, which is suitable for mass consumption as disposal diapers or the like, and which can dispense with excessive purification of raw material acrylic acid. Also provided is a process for the production of a water-absorbent resin, which comprises: a step of preparing acrylic monomers; a step of polymerizing the monomers; and a step of drying the obtained aqueous gel, wherein the monomers at the time of polymerization contain at least 400 ppm of propionic acid.
US08648159B2 Crosslinkable vinyl ester copolymers and their use as low-profile additives
The invention relates to cross-linkable vinylester-copolymers obtained by means of radically initiated polymerisation of a) one or more vinyl esters and b) one or more ethylenically unsaturated, epoxy functional monomers, and by a subsequent reaction that is analogous to polymerisation of the thus obtained base polymers with one or more ethylenically unsaturated acids g), such that at least one ethylenically unsaturated, polymerizable group is introduced into each base polymer. Said invention is characterised in that the cross-linkable vinylester-copolymers have molecular weights of Mn of ≧6.500 g/mol.
US08648158B2 Continuously operated method for producing copolymers
The invention relates to a process for the preparation of copolymer in a continuous mode of operation in a polymerization apparatus, comprising a polymerization reactor having feed lines and an outflow, free radical polymerization initiator, an acid monomer and polyether macromonomer being passed as monomeric starting materials into the polymerization reactor through the feed lines, initiator, monomeric starting materials and copolymer-containing reaction composition thermostated at −20 to +120° C. being present in the polymerization reactor, copolymer-containing reaction composition being discharged from the polymerization reactor through the outflow, the introduction of the polyether macromonomer into the polymerization reactor being effected separately from the acid monomer in a manner such that the polyether macromonomer is mixed with the initiator, monomeric starting materials and copolymer-containing reaction composition in the polymerization reactor and comes into contact with the acid monomer for the first time thereby.
US08648155B2 Polyether ether ketone/polyphenylene sulfide blend
The present description discloses a polymeric composition which is a melt-processed alloy comprised of (a) a polyarylene sulfide resin, (b) a polyaryl-ether-ketone resin, and a reactive compound which results in (c) a graft copolymer of the polyarylene sulfide resin and/or the polyaryl-ether-ketone resin in addition to the starting resins. Exemplary melt-processed polymeric compositions can be made by reacting an alkoxy silane with the polyarylene sulfide resin and/or the polyaryl-ether-ketone resin to produce a graft copolymer of a portion of one or both of the resins, sufficient to render the composition uniform and homogeneous. It is normally preferred for the exemplary organosilane compound, to be an amino silane. The subject invention further reveals an insulated wire comprising (1) an electrical conductor and (2) a layer of the melt-processed alloy composition; and fiber reinforced composites comprising fibers substantially fully impregnated with the alloy polymeric composition.
US08648152B2 Polyfunctional dimethylnaphthalene formaldehyde resin, and process for production thereof
The present invention provides a polyfunctional dimethylnaphthalene formaldehyde resin which is polyfunctional, rich in reactivity and useful as a variety of raw materials to be modified, specifically a dimethylnaphthalene formaldehyde resin obtained by allowing (1) one kind or two or more kinds of a dimethylnaphthalene having one methyl group on each of two benzene rings in a naphthalene ring thereof and selected from the group consisting of 1,5-dimethylnaphthalene, 1,6-dimethylnaphthalene, 2,6-dimethylnaphthalene, 1,7-dimethylnaphthalene, 1,8-dimethylnaphthalene and 2,7-dimethylnaphthalene; and (2) formaldehyde to react with each other in the presence of water and an acid catalyst, the polyfunctional dimethylnaphthalene formaldehyde resin having a mean value of the number of hydrogen atoms substituted by the reaction among the six hydrogen atoms directly bonded on the naphthalene ring in the dimethylnaphthalene of from 1.8 to 3.5.
US08648146B2 Activated solid support and method
Disclosed is a method for activating a solid support material with epoxy groups and for immobilizing ligands thereon, utilizing phase transfer catalytic conditions. The method permits the introduction of epoxy groups and specific nucleophilic ligands on the support material with a high level of substitution. Furthermore, the invention provides a general method for immobilizing a ligand for use in a wide variety of chromatographic separation procedures such as ion exchange chromatography, hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC), reverse phase chromatography (RPC), or affinity chromatography.
US08648141B2 Styrene butadiene rubber with novel styrene incorporation
The present invention relates to improved compositions of SSBR rubber. The improved compositions exhibit sufficient or improved balance of characteristics such as rolling resistance, HBU, abrasion, grip, and/or tear. The compositions may be made in an efficient, cost-effective manner.
US08648136B2 Structures incorporating polymer-inorganic particle blends
Polymer-inorganic particle blends are incorporated into structures generally involving interfaces with additional materials that can be used advantageously for forming desirable devices. In some embodiments, the structures are optical structures, and the interfaces are optical interfaces. The different materials at the interface can have differences in index-of-refraction to yield desired optical properties at the interface. In some embodiments, structures are formed with periodic variations in index-of-refraction. In particular, photonic crystals can be formed. Suitable methods can be used to form the desired structures.
US08648134B2 Polymer processing aids
A polymer composition comprises a polymer matrix, a first fluorine-containing processing aid, and a second processing additive system that is substantially free of fluorine and that comprises: (a) a lubricant and (b) a surfactant.
US08648117B2 Methods and compositions for treating cancer metastasis
The present invention provides methods and compositions for treating cancer metastasis by cyclohexenone compounds.
US08648115B2 Anti-oomycetes
The present invention relates to the use of compounds of general formula (I) or of a salt thereof as anti-oomycetes and to a method for combating plant pathogens using said compounds.
US08648105B2 Diarylthiohydantoin compounds
The present invention relates to diarylthiohydantoin compounds and methods for synthesizing them and using them in the treatment of hormone refractory prostate cancer.
US08648100B2 Roflumilast for the treatment of pulmonary hypertension
The invention relates to the use of Roflumilast, Roflumilast N-Oxide or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of either for the treatment of pulmonary hypertension. The invention additionally relates to the use of Roflumilast, Roflumilast N-oxide or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of either in combination with a PDE5 inhibitor or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof for the treatment of pulmonary hypertension.
US08648098B2 Pirfenidone therapy and inducers of cytochrome P450
The present invention relates to methods involving avoiding adverse drug interactions with pirfenidone and CYP inducers, such as smoking.
US08648093B2 Salt and crystalline forms thereof of a drug
A crystalline form of a drug, ways to make it, compositions containing it and methods of treatment of diseases and inhibition of adverse physiological events using it are disclosed.
US08648090B2 Indole alkaloid derivatives having opioid receptor agonistic effect, and therapeutic compositions and methods relating to same
Indole alkaloid derivatives having an opioid receptor agonistic effect, their synthesis, and therapeutic compositions containing these derivatives, and methods of treating conditions with these compounds and therapeutic compositions, are provided.
US08648086B2 5,6-bicyclic heteroaryl-containing urea compounds as kinase inhibitors
The present invention provides 5,6-bicyclic heteroaryl-containing urea compounds of Formula I or II and use of the same for treating conditions mediated by protein kinase such as VEGFR2, c-Met, PDGFRβ c-Kit, CSF1R, or EphA2.
US08648071B2 Hydrazonamide compounds that modulate Hsp90 activity
The present invention relates to substituted hydrazonamide compounds. The invention further relates to methods of inhibiting the activity of Hsρ90 in a subject in need thereof and methods for treating hyperproliferative disorders, such as cancer, in a subject in need thereof comprising administering to the subject a substituted hydrazonamide compound of the invention, or a pharmaceutical composition comprising such a compound.
US08648070B2 Bicyclic ring system substituted sulfonamide functionalised phenols as medicaments
This invention relates to bicyclic ring system substituted sulfonamide functionalized phenols of general formula 1, their use as inhibitors of CXCR2 activity, pharmaceutical compositions containing the same, and methods of using the same as agents for treatment and/or prevention of respiratory or gastrointestinal complaints or diseases, inflammatory diseases of the joints, skin, or eyes, diseases of the peripheral or central nervous system or cancers, as well as pharmaceutical compositions which contain these compounds.
US08648060B2 Use of 3-alpha-androstanediol in combination with a 5-HT1a agonist, in the treatment of sexual dysfunction
The invention relates to the field of male and/or female sexual dysfunction. The invention specifically relates to the use of 3-alpha-androstanediol, preferably in combination with a 5-HT1A agonist. Optionally, said 3-alpha-androstanediol and said 5HT1a agonist are further combined with a type 5 phosphodiesterase (PDE5) inhibitor.
US08648055B2 Virucidal properties of various forms of sophorolipids
A method for neutralizing or inactivating a virus, and neutralizing or inactivating HIV using sophorolipids having antiviral properties produced by synthesizing the sophorolipid by fermentation of Candida bombicola in a fermentation media to form a natural mixture of lactonic sophorolipids compounds and non-lactonic sophorolipids compounds and utilizing the natural mixture as an antiviral agent, and/or separating the lactonic sophorolipids from the natural mixture to form a lactonic fraction and mixing all remaining fractions to form a non-lactonic fraction and utilizing the lactonic fraction and/or the non-lactonic fraction as an antiviral agent, and sophorolipid compounds for use as antiviral agents.
US08648053B2 Antisense oligonucleotides that target a cryptic splice site in Ush1c as a therapeutic for Usher syndrome
The present invention provides a method for treating Usher's syndrome in a human subject including administering to the human subject an oligonucleotide having 8 to 30 linked nucleosides having a nucleobase sequence comprising a complementary region comprising at least 8 contiguous nucleobases complementary to a target region of equal length within exon 3 of an Usher RNA transcript.
US08648052B2 Prevention of chlamydia infection using SIRNA
The present invention provides methods and compositions useful in the treatment or prevention of Chlamydia infections. The methods and compositions inhibit the entry of Chlamydia into a host cell expressing EMP2 by interfering with the interaction between the Chlamydia and EMP2. The compositions include EMP2 nucleic acids and polypeptides as well as anti-EMP2 antibodies.
US08648047B2 Methods and compositions for inhibition of multi-drug resistance by hyaluronan oligomers
Pharmaceutical compositions and methods for sensitizing multi-drug resistant cancer or radiation resistant cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents are provided. Compositions include ligands of hyaluronan receptors, including glycosaminoglycans such as hyaluronan oligomers and derivatives of these oligomers, hyaluronan binding proteins, antibodies specific for hyaluronan receptors, hyaluronan mimetics, inhibitors of hyaluronan synthesis, and stimulators of hyaluronan degradation.
US08648037B2 Macrocyclic proline derived HCV serine protease inhibitors
The present invention discloses compounds of Formula I or pharmaceutically acceptable salts, esters, or prodrugs thereof: which inhibit serine protease activity, particularly the activity of hepatitis C virus (HCV) NS3-NS4A protease. Consequently, the compounds of the present invention interfere with the life cycle of the hepatitis C virus and are also useful as antiviral agents. The present invention further relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising the aforementioned compounds for administration to a subject suffering from HCV infection. The invention also relates to methods of treating an HCV infection in a subject by administering a pharmaceutical composition comprising the compounds of the present invention.
US08648033B2 Organic carbonates with vanilla odor
The invention relates to a method to confer, enhance, improve or modify the odor properties of a perfuming composition or of a perfumed article, by adding to the composition or article an effective amount of at least a compound of formula (I) wherein R1 represents a C1-3 hydrocarbon group; R2 represents a C1-3 hydrocarbon group; and one R3 represents a C1-3 hydrocarbon group, and the other R3 represents a hydrogen atom. The invention also relates to perfuming compositions and perfuming consumer products containing these compounds.
US08648028B2 Capsule with organic/inorganic hybrid wall
The present disclosure relates to a capsule having a core and a shell surrounding the core. The shell comprises a polymeric material produced by reacting a component (A) with a component (B). Component (A) comprises a polysiloxane bearing one or more amino groups and component (B) comprises one or more polyisocyanates. The disclosure also relates to processes for producing the capsules, methods of using the capsules, and to products containing the capsules.
US08648025B2 Personal care compositions with silicones and polyhydroxy quaternary ammonium salts
A personal care composition is provided with a silicone compound and being aesthetically modified for improved skinfeel with a polyhydroxy quaternary ammonium salt of structure (I): wherein X− is selected from the group consisting of chloride, bromide, hydroxyl, sulphate, phosphate, methosulphate, carboxyl, citrate and tartrate; and (ii) from about 0.05 to about 50% of silicone by weight of the composition.
US08648022B2 Lubricating oil for refrigerator and hydraulic fluid composition for refrigerator using the same
The present invention proposes a lubricating oil for refrigerators comprising, as the base oil, a polyester-based derivative or a polyvinyl ether derivative and a polycarbonate-based oxygenated compound; a polyoxyalkylene glycol derivative; or a polyester-based derivative or a polyvinyl ether derivative and a polyoxyalkylene glycol derivative. The lubricating oil exhibits excellent miscibility with a refrigerant having one carbon atom and no chlorine atoms and, in particular, with difluoromethane and provides a hydraulic fluid composition exhibiting excellent antiwear, lubricity and stability.
US08648018B2 Crosslinked swellable polymer
The invention is directed to stable crosslinked water-soluble swellable polymers, methods for making same, and their various uses in the hygiene and medical arts, gel electrophoresis, packaging, agriculture, the cable industry, information technology, in the food industry, papermaking, use as flocculation aids, and the like. More particularly, the invention relates to a composition comprising expandable polymeric microparticles having labile crosslinkers and stable crosslinkers, said microparticle mixed with a fluid and an unreacted tertiary crosslinker that is capable of further crosslinking the microparticle on degradation of the labile crosslinker so as to form a stable gel. A particularly important use is as an injection fluid in petroleum production, where the expandable polymeric particles are injected into a well and when the heat and/or pH of the well cause degradation of the labile crosslinker and when the particle expands, the tertiary crosslinker crosslinks the polymer to form a stable gel, thus diverting water to lower permeability regions and improving oil recovery.
US08648007B2 Vaporization and transportation of alkali metal salts
An apparatus and method for vaporizing and transporting an alkali metal salt is shown. The apparatus has a first conduit capable of transporting an alkali metal salt solution and a second conduit in fluid communication with the first conduit, the second conduit capable of transporting steam so that the alkali metal salt is dissipated into the steam forming a solution that can be transported, such as to a remote reaction zone. The solution can be transported via a third conduit that is capable of being heated by a heat source. The method can be used to add a promoter to a dehydrogenation catalyst during a dehydrogenation reaction.
US08648006B2 Electroless plating in microchannels
Novel methods of electroless plating are described. Catalyst coatings can be applied within microchannel apparatus. Various reactions, including combustion and steam reforming, can be conducted over electroless catalyst coatings.
US08647995B2 Fusion formable silica and sodium containing glasses
Sodium containing aluminosilicate and boroaluminosilicate glasses are described herein. The glasses can be used as substrates or superstrates for photovoltaic devices, for example, thin film photovoltaic devices such as CIGS photovoltaic devices. These glasses can be characterized as having strain points ≧535° C., for example, ≧570° C., thermal expansion coefficients of from 8 to 9 ppm/° C., as well as liquidus viscosities in excess of 50,000 poise. As such they are ideally suited for being formed into sheet by the fusion process.
US08647981B1 Methods of forming patterns, and methods of forming integrated circuitry
Some embodiments include methods of forming a pattern. First lines are formed over a first material, and second lines are formed over the first lines. The first and second lines form a crosshatch pattern. The first openings are extended through the first material. Portions of the first lines that are not covered by the second lines are removed to pattern the first lines into segments. The second lines are removed to uncover the segments. Masking material is formed between the segments. The segments are removed to form second openings that extend through the masking material to the first material. The second openings are extended through the first material. The masking material is removed to leave a patterned mask comprising the first material having the first and second openings therein. In some embodiments, spacers may be formed along the first and second lines to narrow the openings in the crosshatch pattern.
US08647974B2 Method of fabricating a semiconductor chip with supportive terminal pad
Various semiconductor chip input/output structures and methods of making the same are disclosed. In one aspect, a method of manufacturing is provided that includes providing a semiconductor chip that has a first conductor pad and a passivation structure. A second conductor pad is fabricated around but not in physical contact with the first conductor pad to leave a gap. The second conductor pad is adapted to protect a portion of the passivation structure.
US08647966B2 Method and apparatus for dicing die attach film on a semiconductor wafer
In one aspect of the present invention, a method of sawing a semiconductor wafer will be described. A semiconductor wafer is positioned in a wafer sawing apparatus that includes a sawing blade and a movable support structure that physically supports the semiconductor wafer. The semiconductor wafer is coupled with the support structure with various layers, including a die attach film, an adhesive and a base film. The die attach film is cut with the sawing blade. During the cutting operation, a contact portion of the sawing blade engages one of the layers and moves at least partly in one direction. While the contact portion of the sawing blade engages the layer, the support structure moves in the opposite direction. Various aspects of the present invention relate to arrangements and a wafer sawing apparatus that involve the aforementioned sawing method.
US08647953B2 Method for fabricating first and second epitaxial cap layers
A method for fabricating a metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) device is described, including following steps. Two recesses are formed in a substrate. A first epitaxy growth process is performed, so as to form a first semiconductor compound layer in each of the recesses. A second epitaxy growth process is performed with an epitaxial temperature lower than 700° C., so as to form a cap layer on each of the first semiconductor compound layers. Each of the cap layers includes a second semiconductor compound layer protruding from a surface of the substrate. The first and the second semiconductor compound layers are composed of a first Group IV element and a second Group IV element, wherein the second Group IV element is a nonsilicon element. The content of the second Group IV element in the second semiconductor compound layers is less than that in the first semiconductor compound layers.
US08647945B2 Method of forming substrate contact for semiconductor on insulator (SOI) substrate
A semiconductor structure is provided that includes a material stack including an epitaxially grown semiconductor layer on a base semiconductor layer, a dielectric layer on the epitaxially grown semiconductor layer, and an upper semiconductor layer present on the dielectric layer. A capacitor is present extending from the upper semiconductor layer through the dielectric layer into contact with the epitaxially grown semiconductor layer. The capacitor includes a node dielectric present on the sidewalls of the trench and an upper electrode filling at least a portion of the trench. A substrate contact is present in a contact trench extending from the upper semiconductor layer through the dielectric layer and the epitaxially semiconductor layer to a doped region of the base semiconductor layer. A substrate contact is also provided that contacts the base semiconductor layer through the sidewall of a trench. Methods for forming the above-described structures are also provided.
US08647944B2 Semiconductor device and semiconductor device manufacturing method
A semiconductor device including a semiconductor substrate having a logic formation region where a logic device is formed; a first impurity region formed in an upper surface of the semiconductor substrate in the logic formation region; a second impurity region formed in an upper surface of the semiconductor substrate in the logic formation region; a third impurity region formed in an upper surface of the first impurity region and having a conductivity type different from that of the second impurity region; a fourth region formed in an upper surface of the second impurity region and having a conductivity type different from that of the second impurity region; a first silicide film formed in an upper surface of the third impurity region; a second silicide film formed in an upper surface of the fourth impurity region and having a larger thickness than the first silicide film.
US08647937B2 Deep depleted channel MOSFET with minimized dopant fluctuation and diffusion levels
CMOS devices are fabricated with a channel layer having minimized dopant fluctuation and diffusion. Embodiments include forming a dummy gate, on a substrate, between a pair of spacers, forming, in the substrate, a source and drain separated by a ground plane layer, removing the dummy gate from the substrate, forming a cavity between the pair of spacers, forming, after removal of the dummy gate, a channel layer on the substrate, forming a high-k layer on the channel layer and on side surfaces of the cavity, and forming a replacement gate in the cavity.
US08647932B2 Manufacturing method of thin film transistor
Disclosed are a thin film transistor and a method of manufacturing the thin film transistor. An electrode layer of the thin film transistor includes a seed layer formed of a transparent conductive material doped with indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO) and a main layer formed of a transparent conductive material. The thin film transistor includes a substrate, a gate electrode on the substrate, a gate insulation film on the substrate to cover the gate electrode, a semiconductor layer disposed on the gate insulation film in a region corresponding to the gate electrode, an electrode layer having a double layer structure and disposed on the gate insulation film in a manner such that a topside portion of the semiconductor layer is exposed through the electrode layer, and a passivation layer on the gate insulation film to cover the semiconductor layer and the electrode layer.
US08647927B2 Microwave circuit package
A microwave circuit package having a ball grid array, BGA, soldered on to a planar major surface of a metal housing of the package for the electrical connection of the ports of the microwave circuit through RF signal paths to an adjacent electrical device. Each of the RF signal paths comprises a pin electrically connected to a respective port of the microwave circuit package, projecting normally through an opening in the said major surface from which it is electrically insulated, and soldered to a ball of the BGA; the pin and the surrounding balls of the BGA, which are soldered to the metal housing, constituting a coaxial RF signal path.
US08647923B2 Method of manufacturing semiconductor device
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device includes the steps of forming a plurality of first integrated circuits on the surface side of a first semiconductor substrate; forming a plurality of second integrated circuits in a semiconductor layer that is formed on a release layer provided on a second semiconductor substrate; bonding the two semiconductor substrates so that electrically bonding portions are bonded to each other to form a bonded structure; separating the second semiconductor substrate from the bonded structure at the release layer to transfer, to the first semiconductor substrate, the semiconductor layer in which the plurality of second integrated circuits are formed; and dicing the first semiconductor substrate to obtain stacked chips each including the first integrated circuit and the second integrated circuit.
US08647919B2 Light-emitting display device and method for manufacturing the same
Provided is a method to manufacture a light-emitting display device in which a contact hole for the electrical connection of the pixel electrode and one of the source and drain electrode of a transistor and a contact hole for the processing of a semiconductor layer are formed simultaneously. The method contributes to the reduction of a photography step. The transistor includes an oxide semiconductor layer where a channel formation region is formed.
US08647916B2 Method for manufacturing solar cell using a single target
Methods for manufacturing a solar cell are provided. The method may include forming a lower electrode on a substrate, forming a light absorption layer on the lower electrode, forming a buffer layer on the light absorption layer, and forming a window layer on the buffer layer. The window layer may include an intrinsic layer and the transparent electrode which have electric characteristics different from each other, respectively. The intrinsic layer and the transparent electrode may be formed by a sputtering process using a single target formed of metal oxide doped with impurities.
US08647913B2 Image sensor, method and design structure including non-planar reflector
A solid state image sensor, a method for fabricating the solid state image sensor and a design structure for fabricating the solid state image sensor structure include a substrate that in turn includes a photosensitive region. Also included within solid state image sensor is a non-planar reflector layer located over a side of the photosensitive region and the substrate opposite an incoming radiation side of the photosensitive region and the substrate. The non-planar reflector layer is shaped and positioned to reflect uncaptured incident radiation back into the photosensitive region while avoiding optical cross-talk with an additional photosensitive region laterally separated within the substrate.
US08647912B2 Solar cell and method for manufacturing solar cell
The present invention is a solar cell 500 comprising the substrate 510 made of a crystalline semiconductor, an i-type semiconductor layer 520a and an i-type semiconductor layer 520b each made of an amorphous semiconductor, and a first-conductivity type semiconductor layer 530 and a second-conductivity type semiconductor layer 540 each made of an amorphous semiconductor, in which by catalytic chemical vapor deposition in which catalyzers decompose raw gas when being heated by receiving an electric current, the i-type semiconductor layer 520a is formed on the principle plane 515a by the catalyzer placed at the position facing the principle plane 515a, the i-type semiconductor layer 520b is formed on the principle plane 515b by the catalyzer placed at the position facing the principle plane 515b are formed on the i-type semiconductor layer 520a and the i-type semiconductor layer 520b on the substrate 510.
US08647910B2 Masking pastes and processes for manufacturing a partially transparent thin-film photovoltaic panel
The present invention relates to masking pastes and methods for removing portions of the back electrode and photovoltaic junction from a photovoltaic laminate to create a partially transparent thin-film photovoltaic panel. Such panels may be useful in window and sun-roof applications. This method can be used to edge-delete and electrically isolate a photovoltaic panel and to reduce the reflectivity of the sun-facing substrate surface.
US08647892B2 Inline process control structures
A method for process control is disclosed. The method includes performing an etching process on a semiconductor substrate forming a structure and a test structure having a pattern and a releasing mechanism coupled to the pattern; and monitoring the pattern of the test structure to determine whether the etching process is complete.
US08647889B2 Luminescent polymer cyclic amplification
The present invention is directed to a luminescent immunoassay method for detecting an analyte in a liquid sample with high sensitivity. The invention provides a unique combination of (i) using a probe having a small sensing surface area for binding analyte molecules, (ii) using a high molecular weight branched polymer conjugated with multiple binding molecules and multiple luminescent labels, and (iii) cycling the probe having immunocomplex formed back to the reagent vessel and amplification vessel 1-10 times and repeating the reaction with the reagent and the amplification polymer, to improve the sensitivity of detection level. For each cycling, the luminescent signal is increased significantly over the noise.
US08647886B1 Apparatus, method, system for the determination of the aggregation rate of red blood cells
The present invention generally relates to an apparatus, method, system for the determination of the aggregation rate of red blood cells. More specifically, the invention concerns a method, system, and the relative apparatus used to determine the aggregation rate of red blood cells, and other parameters related to these, such as viscosity, deformability, elasticity, density, in the field of in vitro medical analyses, using optical systems after or during inducted forces for red blood cell disruption and redistribution generated by ultrasound waves.
US08647866B2 ZCYTOR17 heterodimeric cytokine receptor polynucleotides
Novel polypeptide combinations, polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides, and related compositions and methods are disclosed for zcytor17-containing multimeric or heterodimer cytokine receptors that may be used as novel cytokine antagonists, and within methods for detecting ligands that stimulate the proliferation and/or development of hematopoietic, lymphoid and myeloid cells in vitro and in vivo. The present invention also includes methods for producing the multimeric or heterodimeric cytokine receptor, uses therefor and antibodies thereto.
US08647863B2 Minicircle vector production
A plasmid is provided comprising the following functional units: a prokaryotic origin of replication, a marker sequence, two specific recombinase recognition sequences and a multiple cloning site, whereby it comprises a gene coding for a sequence specific recombinase, whereby the units are arranged on the plasmid in such a way that the plasmid is divided into a miniplasmid and a minicircle upon expression of the sequence specific recombinase, said miniplasmid comprising the prokaryotic origin of replication, the marker sequence and the gene for the sequence specific recombinase and said minicircle comprising the multiple cloning site.
US08647862B2 Method of increasing the gas-liquid interface in a fermentation process
When using the equipment and method in accordance with this invention, it is possible to implement biotechnological production e.g. in biorefineries in such a way that it is possible to make use of the phenomena of the gas-liquid interface and interfaces between other phases by means of a moving process solution and gas led into it. This way, production and post-treatment methods can also be integrated, and desired acceleration of reactions and cost reductions can be achieved.
US08647857B2 Processes for the digestion of colanic acid
The present disclosure generally relates to processes employing polypeptides having colanic acid-degrading activity. The processes generally involve contacting a biological material with a polypeptide capable of digesting colanic acid. Additional process steps, such as chromatographic separation steps, are also described.
US08647846B2 Container and method for production of biomembrane
A method and a container for production of a biomembrane are disclosed in the present invention. The biomembrane produced in the method and in the container of the present invention can be processed into a mask, wherein processes for changing the shape of the biomembrane are unnecessary. The mask produced from the biomembrane can be efficient to maintain the skin, and to supply the moisture thereto.
US08647845B2 Method for producing sugar
Provided is a method for efficiently producing sugar and simultaneously efficiently producing ethanol. A method for producing sugar characterized by comprising a pretreatment step in which a plant-origin sugar solution is fermented by a microorganism having no sucrose-degrading enzyme and a step for producing sugar from the fermented sugar solution. A method for producing sugar characterized by comprising a pretreatment step in which a plant-origin sugar solution is fermented by a microorganism in the presence of a sucrose-degrading enzyme inhibitor and a step for producing sugar from the fermented sugar solution.
US08647842B2 Methods for producing a fusion protein capable of binding VEGF
The present invention provides methods for producing a fusion protein capable of binding vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF). The methods of the invention comprise growing recombinant cells in suspension culture, wherein the recombinant cells contain an expression vector comprising a nucleic acid molecule encoding a fusion protein that binds VEGF, and isolating the fusion protein from the suspension culture. The fusion protein may comprise a VEGF receptor component having an immunoglobulin-like (Ig) domain 2 of a first VEGF receptor, an Ig domain 3 of a second VEGF receptor, and a multimerizing component.
US08647841B2 Artificial chromosome vector
According to the present invention there is provided a method of producing a protein in a eukaryotic cell line, comprising the steps of a) providing a backbone of an artificial chromosome, b) recombining the nucleic acid encoding said protein into said backbone to generate an expression vector, c) introducing said expression vector into a eukaryotic host cell line to obtain a eukaryotic expression cell line, d) cultivating said expression cell line to produce said protein, and e) isolating said protein. The invention further relates to respective vectors and transgenic cell lines.
US08647840B2 In vivo unnatural amino acid expression in the methylotrophic yeast Pichia pastoris
The invention provides orthogonal translation systems for the production of polypeptides comprising unnatural amino acids in methylotrophic yeast such as Pichia pastoris. Methods for producing polypeptides comprising unnatural amino acids in methylotrophic yeast such as Pichia pastoris are also provided.
US08647837B2 Artificial tissue constructs comprising alveolar cells and methods for using the same
The present invention comprises artificial tissue constructs that serve as in vitro models of mammalian lung tissue. The artificial tissue constructs of the present invention comprise functionally equivalent in vitro tissue scaffolds that enable immunophysiological function of the lung. The constructs can serve as novel platforms for the study of lung diseases (e.g., interstitial lung diseases, fibrosis, influenza, RSV) as well as smoke- and smoking-related diseases. The artificial tissue constructs of the present invention comprise the two components of alveolar tissue, epithelial and endothelial cell layers.
US08647833B2 Method for in vitro assay of the circulating tissue factor, and use in the detection of coagulation diseases
The invention concerns the field of hemostasis, in particular blood coagulation disorders linked to an abnormal expression of tissue factor, and to physiopathological phenomena correlated with over-expression of the factor. The present invention provides a method for assaying the activity of circulating tissue factor in a biological sample. The method of the invention is carried out in vitro, in particular on a blood sample collected from a patient.
US08647828B2 Intracellular targeting of molecules via syndecan-4
The present invention provides methods for intracellular and/or nuclear targeting of an agent capable of specifically binding to syndecan-4. The present invention further provides methods for the modification of the intracellular and/or nuclear targeting of said agent, as well methods for identifying compounds capable of modifying the syndecan-4 delivery pathway. The present invention further provides experimental kits to perform the methods according to the invention.
US08647822B2 Determining whether a test compound modulates PD-1 activity in activated immune cells using gene expression profiles
Modulation of PD-1 activity in the presence or absence of an agent as measured by a gene expression profile of at least two genes is provided. Reagents, kits, methods and uses thereof for the modulation of immune function comprise the identification of modulators of PD-1 activity.
US08647821B2 Method and apparatus for combined electrochemical synthesis and detection of analytes
Described are devices and methods for detecting binding on an electrode surface. In addition, devices and methods for electrochemically synthesizing polymers and devices and methods for synthesizing and detecting binding to the polymer on a common integrated device surface are described.
US08647811B2 Positive-working lithographic printing plate precursors
A positive-working lithographic printing plate precursor has an outermost imageable layer that is present at a dry coverage weight of at least 0.7 g/m2 and up to and including 1.6 g/m2 and comprises a primary polymeric binder comprising recurring units of a hydroxyaryl acetal or a hydroxyaryl ester, or recurring units of both a hydroxyaryl acetal and a hydroxyaryl ester. The outermost imageable layer also contains an alkali-soluble secondary vinyl polymer that is not a primary polymeric binder and a non-polymeric polyhydric phenol. These precursors comprise an infrared radiation absorber to make them sensitive and imageable using infrared radiation. After imaging, the precursors can be processed (developed) using an relatively low pH developer such as a silicate- or metasilicate-free developer.
US08647807B2 Photosensitive resin composition, photosensitive dry film and method for forming pattern
A photosensitive resin composition comprising: a vinyl-based polymer (I) obtained by polymerizing a monomer mixture containing a monomer (a) having a phenolic hydroxyl group; a vinyl-based polymer (II) obtained by polymerizing a monomer mixture containing a carboxyl group-containing vinyl monomer (b), and having a weight average molecular weight of 20,000 to 100,000, provided that the vinyl-based polymer (I) is excluded; a quinonediazide compound (III); and a compound (IV) represented by following formula (5).[In the formula, Y is a hydrocarbon group of 1 to 6 carbon atoms; l and m are each independently an integer of 1 to 3; n is 1 or 2; p and q are each independently 0 or 1.].
US08647806B2 Photosensitive resin composition, photosensitive dry film and method for forming pattern
The present invention is related to a photosensitive resin composition containing: a vinyl-based copolymer (I) obtained by polymerizing a monomer mixture containing a monomer (a) having a phenolic hydroxyl group and a carboxyl group-containing vinyl monomer (b); a quinonediazide compound (II) and a compound (III) represented by the following formula (5), and to a photosensitive dry film and a method for forming a patter by using the photosensitive resin composition.According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a photosensitive resin composition which can form a resist film in which the occurrence of crack is suppressed, the film reduction of the unexposed area is suppressed, and sensitivity and resolution are excellent, and to provide a photosensitive dry film and a method for forming a pattern by using the photosensitive resist composition [In the formula, Y is a straight or branched hydrocarbon group of 1 to 6 carbon atoms; 1 and m are respectively independently an integer of 1 to 3; n is 1 or 2; p and q are respectively independently 0 or 1.]
US08647804B2 Method of preparing carrier for electrophotography, carrier for electrophotography, developer for electrophotography, process cartridge and image forming apparatus
A method of preparing carrier for electrophotography, which includes a core material and a coating material layer formed on the surface of the core material, including coating a coating material of the coating material layer on the core material; and burning the coating material by an induction heater, wherein the induction heater applies an alternative current to parallely-located plural coil circuits including a conductive wire including the shape of a coil to generate a magnetic line changing its direction and intensity for inductively heating the core material to heat the coating material.
US08647800B2 Toner
Provided is a toner capable of suppressing the bleeding of wax to the surface of the toner to maintain a high electrophotograph property while maintaining a broad fixing temperature range and capable of reducing interior contamination in long-term use. The toner includes toner particles, each of which contains a binder resin, a colorant, and a wax. The toner has a softening point of 75° C. or more and 110° C. or less measured by a constant-pressure-extrusion-type capillary rheometer. The wax is a hydrocarbon wax composed of a hydrocarbon compound. The hydrocarbon wax has specific abundance ratios each corresponding to a specific carbon number range of hydrocarbon compounds.
US08647798B2 Photoreceptor, process cartridge and image forming apparatus
A photoreceptor including an electroconductive substrate; a photosensitive layer on the electroconductive substrate; and a protection layer on the photosensitive layer, wherein the protection layer includes a radical polymerizable compound having three or more radical polymerizable groups without a charge transportable group, a monofunctional radical polymerizable compound having a specific charge transportable group and a non-radical polymerizable compound having a specific charge transportable group.
US08647793B2 Solid proton conductor for fuel cell and fuel cell using the same
A solid proton conductor for a fuel cell and a fuel cell employing the solid proton conductor, the solid proton conductor including a sulfonated polymer, and a hydrophilic polymer having an acid group, constituting a polymer solvent, providing a proton mobile path.
US08647788B2 Fuel cell module
A fuel cell module (1) with a fuel cell (2), a residual gas burner (4) and a heat exchanger (6). The service life of the module (1) can be improved by at least one compensator (27) for establishing a flow-carrying connection between the residual gas burner (4) and the heat exchanger (6).
US08647782B2 Fuel cell system and control method thereof
A fuel cell system is provided that can establish, for a long time period, a stack to an idling stop state. The fuel cell system includes: an idling stop control means for setting the stack to an idling stop state by, decreasing both a supplied amount of air to the stack and generated electric current produced from the stack to less than during the idling power generation; and a discharge valve control means for determining whether there is a necessity to discharge nitrogen or generated water inside of the anode system, and for opening the purge valve or drain valve in a case of there being a necessity. The discharge valve control means shortens valve open times (PO2, DO2) of the purge valve and drain valve during idling stop to less than the valve open times (PO1, DO1) thereof during idling power generation.
US08647780B2 Materials useful as electrolytic solutes
The invention concerns novel ionic compounds with low melting point whereof the onium type cation having at least a heteroatom such as N, 0, S or P bearing the positive charge and whereof the anion includes, wholly or partially, at least an ion imidide such as (FXI0)N—(OX2F) wherein X1 and X2 are identical or different and comprise SO or PF, and their use as solvent in electrochemical devices. Said composition comprises a salt wherein the anionic charge is delocalised, and can be used, inter alia, as electrolyte.
US08647779B2 Nonaqueous electrolyte composition and nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery
A nonaqueous electrolyte composition includes: a nonaqueous solvent; an electrolyte salt; a matrix resin; a filler; and a surfactant.
US08647770B2 Bismuth-tin binary anodes for rechargeable magnesium-ion batteries
A rechargeable magnesium-ion battery includes a first electrode, a second electrode, and an electrolyte layer between the first electrode and the second electrode. The electrolyte includes a source of magnesium ions, such as a magnesium salt. The first electrode includes an active material, the active material including tin and bismuth, for example as a binary combination of Sn and Bi, such as a solid solution or intermetallic compound.
US08647769B2 Lithium-sulphur battery with high specific energy
The invention provides for a method of discharging a chemical source of electric energy in two stages. The chemical source of electric energy comprises a positive electrode (cathode) including sulphur or sulphur-based organic compounds, sulphur-based polymeric compounds or sulphur-based inorganic compounds as a depolarizer, a negative electrode (anode) made of metallic lithium or lithium-containing alloys, and an electrolyte comprising a solution of at least one salt in at least one aprotic solvent. The method comprises the steps of configuring the chemical source of electric energy to generate soluble polysulphides in the electrolyte during a first stage of a two stage discharge process, and selecting the quantity of sulphur in the depolariser and the volume of electrolyte in a way that after the first stage discharge of the cathode, the concentration of the soluble polysulphides in the electrolyte is at least seventy percent (70%) of a saturation concentration of the polysulphides in the electrolyte.
US08647763B2 Battery coolant jacket
A battery coolant jacket for use with a plurality of cells is provided, the jacket comprised of a hollow enclosure configured to permit a liquid coolant to flow through the enclosure, entering via a coolant inlet and exiting via a coolant outlet; a plurality of cell apertures that extend completely through the hollow enclosure, where each cell aperture is sized to fit a cell; and a plurality of coolant segregation walls that are integrated into the hollow enclosure and separate the cells into groups of cells, and where each coolant segregation wall forms a barrier between the cell group contained within that coolant segregation wall and the liquid coolant flowing through the hollow enclosure. The coolant jacket may include at least one flow control wall integrated within the hollow enclosure that controls the coolant flow pathway between the enclosure's coolant inlet and outlet, for example causing the coolant flow pathway to alternate directions between adjacent cell groups.
US08647756B2 Magnetic tape and method for producing the same
A magnetic tape produced by cutting a magnetic sheet with a wide breadth into a tape having a predetermined width using a cutting device, in which the magnetic sheet has a magnetic layer containing magnetic powder and a hinder formed on one surface of a non-magnetic substrate having a thickness of 4 μm or less, and a center line average height (Ra) along a roughness curve of a cut edge of the magnetic tape is from 0.08 to 0.25 μm.
US08647755B2 Perpendicular magnetic recording medium and manufacturing method thereof
Embodiments of the present invention provide a perpendicular magnetic recording medium with less medium noise, excellent overwrite characteristics, and scratch resistance. According to one embodiment, when an Ar gas with addition of a micro-amount of oxygen is used upon forming an upper Ru intermediate layer, a micro-structure of a magnetic layer formed thereon can be formed in a state where no magnetic oxide region is segregated and the magnetic crystal grains are isolated. In this case, a gas pressure for forming the upper intermediate layer is set to 5 Pa or more and 12 Pa or less which is a region much higher compared with 0.5 Pa or more and 1 Pa for the lower Ru intermediate layer. Since writing by a head becomes difficult remarkably in the perpendicular magnetic medium having magnetic crystal grains promoted for isolation, a second magnetic layer for facilitating magnetization reversal by lowering the oxide concentration and somewhat strengthening coupling between particles only in the magnetic layer on the side of the surface is formed to a layer above the first magnetic layer as a main part.
US08647737B2 Method for fabrication of crack-free ceramic dielectric films
The invention provides a process for forming crack-free dielectric films on a substrate. The process comprise the application of a dielectric precursor layer of a thickness from about 0.3 μm to about 1.0 μm to a substrate. The deposition is followed by low temperature heat pretreatment, prepyrolysis, pyrolysis and crystallization step for each layer. The deposition, heat pretreatment, prepyrolysis, pyrolysis and crystallization are repeated until the dielectric film forms an overall thickness of from about 1.5 μm to about 20.0 μm and providing a final crystallization treatment to form a thick dielectric film. Also provided was a thick crack-free dielectric film on a substrate, the dielectric forming a dense thick crack-free dielectric having an overall dielectric thickness of from about 1.5 μm to about 20.0 μm.
US08647735B2 Heating article including coloured heat indicator with improved visability and precision
This invention relates to a heating article (1) comprising a substrate (2) of which one of the surfaces (21) is equipped with a design (4), in the form of a coating layer with at least one pattern (41, 42), which comprises a thermochromic pigment composition with at least one SC thermochromic pigment that is lipid-sensitive under heat. According to the invention, the thermochromic pigment composition includes at least one thermostable pigment and composite pigment grains (43), which each include a core (430) including the semiconducting thermochromic pigment, and a solid, transparent and continuous envelope (431), formed by a mineral or organomineral material. The thermochromic pigment composition shows a reversible change in color in a thermal color-change area with an amplitude of no more than 40° C. within the range of variation of said temperature T1 of use.
US08647725B2 Cellulose acylate film, polarizing plate and liquid crystal display device
A cellulose acylate film, containing an acyl-modified compound of a reduction product of a ketone compound-formaldehyde polymer, a polarizing plate containing the film as transparent protective film, and a liquid crystal display device having the polarizing plate.
US08647717B2 Packaging materials with enhanced thermal-insulating performance
A method for preparing a thermo-insulating packaging material including steps of providing a first paper-based substrate, applying a fluid thermal-insulating composition onto the first paper-based substrate, the thermal-insulating composition including a filler, an organic binder, a plasticizer, and water, applying a second paper-based substrate over the thermal-insulating composition such that the thermal-insulating composition is positioned between the first paper-based substrate and the second paper-based substrate to form a structure, and drying the structure.
US08647712B2 Method for manufacturing fuser members
The present teachings describe a process that includes obtaining a composition of particles comprising fluorine containing particles and aerogel particles. The composition is mixed at a resonant frequency of a mixing system containing the composition. The composition is powder coated onto a substrate and cured to form a release layer on the substrate.
US08647710B2 Coated substrate with a curved surface, and a method for production of a coated substrate such as this
A method for production of a substrate having a patterned optical coating on a curved surface is provided. The method includes applying a masking to a sub-area of the curved surface applying an optical coating using a vacuum deposition method, and removing the masking. A coated substrate, which can be produced in particular by the method described above, is also provided. The coated substrate includes a curved surface that is provided with at least one patterned optical coating. The at least one patterned optical coating is provided on at least one sub-area of the curved surface and is missing on at least one adjacent sub-area.
US08647709B2 Anti-icing coatings and methods
A method of inhibiting or preventing bonding between snow or ice and a substrate. The method includes applying an adhesive to the substrate, broadcasting an aggregate onto the adhesive, the aggregate having the capacity to receive an anti-icing chemical into the aggregate, and applying the anti-icing chemical onto the aggregate so that at least a portion of the anti-icing chemical is received into at least a portion of the aggregate.
US08647688B2 Method of fermenting wort
The present invention relates to a continuous method of fermenting wort, said method comprising: -fermenting wort with a biologically active yeast to produce an alcohol containing fermented liquid; -introducing the fermented liquid containing at least 10 g/l of biologically active yeast into a maturation vessel; -separately removing yeast containing sediment and supernatant liquid from the vessel; and -optionally recirculating at least a part of the yeast containing sediment to the wort fermentation; wherein the residence time of the fermented liquid in the maturation vessel exceeds 6 hours. The present method offers the advantage that it combines maturation and yeast separation into one processing step, whereas conventional continuous processes require at least two separate processing steps, one for yeast separation and one for maturation. Secondly, the present method is very robust as the relatively high residence time that is needed for maturation ensures that effective sedimentation is achieved under virtually all conditions.
US08647680B2 Methods and compositions for treatment of lesioned sites of body vessels
Methods and compositions for inducing apoptosis of cells, such as macrophages, at a lesioned site of a body vessel are disclosed herein. Nitric oxide can be directly or indirectly delivered to a treatment site to increase macrophage apoptosis. Delivery can include site specific delivery of nitric oxide gas, nitric oxide in aqueous solution or a substance(s) which releases nitric oxide or causes nitric oxide to be generated from an endogenous source. Delivery can be achieved by a delivery system such as a catheter assembly, stent or other suitable device.
US08647676B2 Antimicrobial composition from copepods
The present invention relates to an antimicrobial composition, and to a process for the preparation of such a composition. The invention also relates to the use of such an antimicrobial composition. The present invention further relates to the use of the antimicrobial composition as a pharmaceutical.
US08647672B2 Method for producing a cross-linked polyacrylate polymer implant material
The invention relates to an implant material comprising a polymer which is partially cross-linked by means of a metal acrylate salt.
US08647667B2 Controlled release hydrocodone formulations
A solid oral controlled-release dosage form of hydrocodone is disclosed, the dosage form comprising an analgesically effective amount of hydrocodone or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and controlled release material.
US08647659B2 Intracameral sustained release therapeutic agent implants
Described herein are intracameral implants including at least one therapeutic agent for treatment of at least one ocular condition. The implants described herein are not anchored to the ocular tissue, but rather are held in place by currents and gravity present in the anterior chamber of an eye. The implants are preferably polymeric, biodegradable and provide sustained release of at least one therapeutic agent to both the trabecular meshwork and associated ocular tissue and the fluids within the anterior chamber of an eye.
US08647655B2 Biocompatible polyacrylate compositions for medical applications
A composition comprising a structural component comprising linear acrylic homopolymers or linear acrylic copolymers and a biobeneficial component comprising copolymers having an acrylate moiety and a biobeneficial moiety is disclosed. A medical article comprising the composition in the coating thereof and a method of fabricating the medical article are also disclosed.
US08647653B2 Water containing powder composition
A powdery composition, comprising: a) core-shell particles having a shell of hydrophobic or hydrophobized particles; and b) a carrier powder comprising a carrier and at least one of an at least partially water soluble liquid and a water reactive substrate reversibly bound to the carrier by at least one of the capillary action, absorption and adsorption is provided. The core-shell particles have a core, comprising: water; and 0 to 10 wt. % of a total core weight of a dissolved or emulsified material. The carrier comprises at least one material selected from the group consisting of silica, a silica-metal mixed oxide, phyllosilicate, starch, hollow glass spheres, nylon, sugar, cyclodextrines and polysaccharides, and a weight ratio of the carrier powder to the core-shell particles is from 1/1 to 1/9. A creamy composition is manufactured from the powdery composition-by an energy input in form of pressure, shear, temperature, vibration and/or solvent addition, the energy input being sufficient to release the liquid water or the liquid aqueous phase from the core-shell material and subsequently dissolving or flushing the produce or products from the carrier.
US08647651B2 Synergistic mixtures of C6- to C12-alkanediols and tropolone (derivatives)
Antimicrobial mixtures comprising or consisting of: one or more branched or unbranched alkanediols having 6-12 carbon atoms, one, two or more compounds chosen from the group consisting of the tropolones of the formula (I) wherein the substituents R1, R2, R3, R4 and R5 independently of one another have the following meaning: H; linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated, aliphatic hydrocarbon radical having up to 30 C atoms; OH; OR6, wherein R6 is a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated, aliphatic hydrocarbon radical having up to 30 C atoms; COOH; COOR7, wherein R7 is a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated, aliphatic hydrocarbon radical having up to 30 C atoms; NO2; NH2; F, Cl, Br, I; are described.
US08647641B2 Mycobacterium tuberculosis vaccine
The present invention relates to the use of live mycobacterium of the M. tuberculosis complex for preparing a medicament, wherein the function of the zmp1-gene is inactivated, pharmaceutical compositions prepared from such mycobacteria as well as a method for the treatment and/or prophylaxis of a disease or medical condition using said pharmaceutical composition.
US08647627B2 Composition for a cancer vaccine
Pharmaceutical compositions useful as vaccines are described containing a purified surface or excreted protein qualitatively or quantitatively associated with a type of cancer, at least one interleukin (IL), and at least one colony stimulating factor (CSF), where the purified surface or excreted protein is provided in an amount sufficient to induce an immune response in an individual administered the composition. Such compositions can be used in methods for treating individuals having cancer, and for inducing an immunotherapeutic response in the same.
US08647625B2 Anti-CD154 antibodies
The present invention provides peptides, and fragments thereof, and antibodies, or fragments thereof comprising the same, wherein the peptide comprises at least one amino acid substitution compared to wild type 5c8 antibody. The present invention also provides compositions and methods of treating CD154-related diseases or disorders in a subject.
US08647618B2 Method of cancer treatment
A method and composition for treating cancer comprising administering to a patient an effective amount of attenuated Salmonella typhimurium containing a plasmid carrying the coding sequence encoding a truncated human interleukin-2 and optionally an oil containing a high antioxidant concentration.
US08647616B2 Agents and method for treating inflammation-related conditions and diseases
Gene-modified, inflammation-specific monocytes that comprise a 1-alpha-hydroxylase gene, where the 1-alpha-hydroxylase gene is expressed to produce functional 1-alpha-hydroxylase enzyme when the monocytes transdifferentiate into gene-modified, inflammation-specific macrophages. Gene-modified, inflammation-specific macrophages that comprise a 1-alpha-hydroxylase gene. A method for treating one or more than one inflammation-related condition or disease, the method comprising administering gene-modified, inflammation-specific monocytes that comprise a 1-alpha-hydroxylase gene, where the 1-alpha-hydroxylase gene is expressed to produce functional 1-alpha-hydroxylase enzyme when the monocytes transdifferentiate into gene-modified, inflammation-specific macrophages.
US08647612B2 Dithiol compounds, derivatives, and treatment of presbyopia
Dithiol compounds and derivatives thereof are disclosed. The agents are useful for treating ocular disease, especially presbyopia and cataract.
US08647611B2 Composition containing a polyol and a reaction product
The invention relates to a composition comprising at least one hyperbranched polyol having at least two hydroxyl groups and at least one reaction product of at least one oil-soluble high carbon polar modified polymer and at least one polyamine.
US08647609B2 Composite powder for simultaneously blocking infrared and ultraviolet rays and cosmetics composition using the same
Disclosed is composite powder comprising infrared-ray blocking particles; and ultraviolet-ray blocking particles coated onto one surface of each of the infrared-ray blocking particles, and cosmetics composition using the same, wherein the composite powder using both the infrared-ray blocking particle and the ultraviolet-ray blocking particle enables to simultaneously block the infrared and ultraviolet rays. Thus, if the composite powder of the present invention is applied to the cosmetics, it is possible to minimize the rough wrinkles, irregular pigmentary deposits, loss of skin elasticity, disturbance of skin barrier function, skin damages such as cancer of the skin, and skin aging, and also to boost SPF (Sun Protection Factor) and PA (Protection Factor of UVA) of the related art sunscreen. Especially, the present invention uses the composite powder prepared by coating one surface of the infrared-ray blocking particle with the ultraviolet-ray blocking particles, instead of mixing powder prepared by simply mixing the infrared-ray blocking particle and the ultraviolet-ray blocking particle. That is, since the small-sized ultraviolet-ray blocking particles are coated onto and stably fixed into the surface of the infrared-ray blocking particle, it is possible to prevent aggregation of the ultraviolet-ray blocking particles, thereby preventing deterioration in uniformity of adhesion to the skin, and deterioration of the ultraviolet-ray blocking efficiency.
US08647608B2 Therapeutic dental composition and related methods
Dental compositions are provided comprising a compound of Formula I or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: wherein n is an integer from about 2 to about 5.
US08647595B2 Method for separating radioactive copper using chelating-ion exchange resin
Disclosed is a method for rapidly separating radioactive copper from nickel that contains radioactive copper and radioactive cobalt, which comprises dissolving nickel that contains radioactive copper and radioactive cobalt in an acid solution and leading it to pass through a chelating-ion exchange resin-filled column to thereby make nickel, radioactive copper and radioactive cobalt held by the chelating-ion exchange resin, and then leading an acid solution to pass through the chelating-ion exchange resin-filled column to elute nickel and radioactive cobalt, and thereafter leading an acid solution having a higher concentration than that of the previous acid solution to pass through the chelating-ion exchange resin-filled column after nickel and radioactive elution therefrom to thereby elute radioactive copper.
US08647593B2 Magnetic microplate assembly
Magnetic microplate assemblies are disclosed for assaying of biological activated magnetic particles from a supernatant. The assemblies include a magnetic microplate holder and a microplate including a plurality of wells for retaining the magnetic particles. The microplate holder includes a plurality of magnets for attracting the magnetic particles to the wells and a plurality of detents for securing the microplate in the holder. The detents allow the microplate to be tightly retained in the holder when the assembly is turned over to discard supernatant and wash buffer applied to rinse supernatant from the magnetic particles.
US08647592B2 Method for transport of suspensions containing mechanically sensitive material
Method for transport of suspensions containing mechanically sensitive material with a sample-transporting device comprising transport conduits and at least one system for accelerating a sample or aliquot through the transport conduit from at least two burets.
US08647577B2 Chemical coating of microwell for electrochemical detection device
The described embodiments may provide a method of fabricating a chemical detection device. The method may comprise forming a microwell above a CMOS device. The microwell may comprise a bottom surface and sidewalls. The method may further comprise applying a first chemical to be selectively attached to the bottom surface of the microwell, forming a metal oxide layer on the sidewalls of the microwell, and applying a second chemical to be selectively attached to the sidewalls of the microwell. The second chemical may lack an affinity to the first chemical.
US08647573B2 Automated diagnostic kiosk for diagnosing diseases
An automated and autonomous diagnostic apparatus that is capable of dispensing collection vials and collections kits to users interesting in collecting a biological sample and submitting their collected sample contained within a collection vial into the apparatus for automated diagnostic services. The user communicates with the apparatus through a touch-screen monitor. A user is able to enter personnel information into the apparatus including medical history, insurance information, co-payment, and answer a series of questions regarding their illness, which is used to determine the assay most likely to yield a positive result. Remotely-located physicians can communicate with users of the apparatus using video tele-medicine and request specific assays to be performed. The apparatus archives submitted samples for additional testing. Users may receive their assay results electronically. Users may allow the uploading of their diagnoses into a central databank for disease surveillance purposes.
US08647564B2 High-strength steel sheet with excellent low temperature toughness and manufacturing thereof
There is provided a high-strength steel plate having acicular ferrite and bainite as a main microstructure and an austenite/martensite (M & A) as a second phase under the control of a cooling rate above the austenite transformation temperature. The high-strength steel plate comprises: carbon (C): 0.03 to 0.10 wt %, silicon (Si): 0.1 to 0.4 wt %, manganese (Mn): 1.8 wt % or less, nickel (Ni): 1.0 wt % or less, titanium (Ti): 0.005 to 0.03 wt %, niobium (Nb): 0.02 to 0.10 wt %, aluminum (Al): 0.01 to 0.05 wt %, calcium (Ca): 0.006 wt % or less, nitrogen (N): 0.001 to 0.006 wt %, phosphorus (P): 0.02 wt % or less, sulfur (S): 0.005 wt % or less, and the balance of iron (Fe) and other inevitable impurities. The method for manufacturing a high-strength steel plate may be useful to economically and effectively manufacture a high strength steel, which is able to secure excellent properties such as high strength and high toughness since the acicular ferrite and bainite may be effectively formed without adding expensive elements such as molybdenum (Mo).
US08647555B2 Processing method for in-mold coating integrative system
A processing method for in-mold coating integrative system is used in cooperation with an injection molding machine. The injection molding machine comprises a rotatable work platform and a combination of at least one male mold and at least two female molds. The rotatable work platform is divided averagely into several work areas, and the processing proceeds sequentially in each work area by the rotation of the rotatable work platform. The processing method comprises following steps: injection molding a solid workpiece firstly, and leaving the solid work-piece on the male mold; rotating the rotatable work platform; performing surface coloring; rotating the rotatable work platform; injecting UV top-coat, the top-coat female mold is made of light-directing material and has a die cavity and a UV paint cavity on the surface of the solid workpiece, and a UV top-coat layer is injected into the UV paint cavity through a paint channel; irradiating the UV top-coat layer by a UV top-coat hardening lamp; and demolding to achieve a finished product. The method is of benefit to mass production, and can reduce labor cost and processing cost.
US08647553B2 Stretch sheet and process of producing the same
In a process of producing a stretch sheet, a strip-shaped laminate sheet 10A having an elastically stretchable elastic layer 1 and substantially inelastic, inelastic fiber layers 2 and 3 partially joined to each other at bonds 4 or a strip-shaped fibrous sheet containing an elastic component and a substantially inelastic component and having embossed regions formed by embossing in parts is stretched in directions starting from the bonds 4 or the embossed regions to obtain a stretch sheet 10. The stretch sheet has raised ridges and recessed grooves extending in the direction perpendicular to the stretch direction, and the bonds 4 or the embossed regions are present in the ridges.
US08647547B2 Processing of lignocellulosic and related materials
A method for processing lignocellulosic precursors that includes the following steps: A. provide a suitably sized lignocellulosic precursor with less than 11% moisture content; B. pack a hydrothermal processing vessel with between 1 and 3 times the free flow volume of the lignocellulosic precursor; C. subject the lignocellulosic precursor in the hydrothermal processing vessel to steam below 100 bar for up to 10 minutes; E. explosively decompress to ambient pressure; and then dry the resultant lignocellulosic product to below about 15% moisture content.
US08647546B2 Method for manufacturing friction material, friction material and braking device
A plurality of hard particles 102 is arranged in a mold 302 which suppresses movement of the hard particles 102 so as to be close to each other, and the hard particles 102 arranged in the mold 302 are fixed with resin 103, thereby forming a friction surface 101. Therefore, a pad 100a in which the plurality of hard particles 102 is arranged on the friction surface 101 can be more easily manufactured.
US08647545B2 Method to manufacture at least a component of a blade of a wind-turbine
A method, machine and blade of a wind-turbine are disclosed. At least a component of a blade includes at least one layer of a composite structure. The layer is built up by a number of unconnected single roving-bundles, which are aligned unidirectional and which shows a common direction. The roving-bundles are laid down automatically into a forming tool.
US08647543B2 Fiber reinforced cellular foam product
Fiber reinforced polymer foam articles are disclosed. Through the system and process of the present disclosure, fibers can be incorporated into the foam article during an injection molding process while minimizing fiber breakage. Thus, foam articles can be produced having relatively long fibers. For instance, when using a feed stock containing fibers having a length greater than about 0.7 cm, such as from about 1 cm to about 1.3 cm, foam articles can be produced in which at least about 10% by volume of the fibers have a length greater than 3 mm and wherein at least about 1% by volume of the fibers have a length greater than about 7 mm.
US08647542B2 Method of forming a rebate in a surface of a slip form cast core using a rebate form with ferrule support
A formwork system for use in slip form casting central cores of high rise buildings provides a rebate form for a rebate at the level of each floor slab which is subsequently to be cast. The rebate form is designed to carry ferrules to be cast into the core at the level of the rebate to provide anchoring points for incorporation of reinforcement associated with the floor slab. The ferrules are carried from the rebate form via plugs which are stripped from the ferrules after casting when the rebate form and main slip form to which it is attached is withdrawn.
US08647537B2 Oxide sintered body and sputtering target
An oxide sintered body includes indium oxide and gallium solid-solved therein, the oxide sintered body having an atomic ratio “Ga/(Ga+In)” of 0.001 to 0.12, containing indium and gallium in an amount of 80 atom % or more based on total metal atoms, and having an In2O3 bixbyite structure.
US08647532B2 Anticorrosive composition
The present invention relates to the discovery that melanoidins, and higher molecular weight fractions of products containing melanoidins, provide significant corrosive inhibition, which render these melanoidins suitable for use as anticorrosive agents in corrosive environments. In addition to being highly anticorrosive, the melanoidins of the present invention are environmentally friendly and non-toxic, and can be found in animal food and in human foodstuffs.
US08647513B2 Method for collecting oil with modified clay
The present invention provides a method for collecting oil with a modified clay. By mixing the modified clay and oil, the oil can be adsorbed to the clay. The modified clay is obtained by intercalating a hydrophobic polymer such as acidified poly(oxyalkylene)-amine into layered silicate clay, mica or talc to enlarge the interlayer space. The modified clay thus becomes hydrophobic and adsorption to the oil is promoted.
US08647507B2 Membrane cartridge
Disclosed is a membrane cartridge used in a submerged membrane separator. A peripheral portion of a filtration membrane is joined to the surface of a filtration plate. A portion higher than the surface of the filtration plate corresponding to the peripheral edge of the filtration membrane is formed on the surface of the filtration plate further on the outer side than the peripheral edge of the filtration membrane.
US08647500B2 Integrated gas and liquid phase processing of biocomponent feedstocks
A mineral feed can be hydrotreated in a trickle-bed reactor or other stage in a continuous gas-phase environment. The effluent from the hydrotreatment stage can be separated to remove gas-phase impurities. The remaining liquid effluent from the hydrotreating stage can then be introduced, in total or in part, into a second stage/reactor. A feed of biocomponent origin can also be introduced into the second stage/reactor. The second stage/reactor can be operated to perform deoxygenation of the mixture of biocomponent feed and hydrotreated liquid effluent in a continuous liquid phase environment.
US08647499B2 Hydrocracking method using a modified zeolite
The present invention describes a method for hydrocracking and/or hydrotreating hydrocarbon-containing feeds using a catalyst comprising at least one hydro-dehydrogenizing metal selected from the group made up of group VIB and non-noble group VIII metals of the periodic table and a support comprising at least one zeolite having at least pore openings containing 12 oxygen atoms, modified by a) at least a stage of introducing at least one alkaline cation belonging to groups IA or IIA of the periodic table, b) a stage of treating said zeolite in the presence of at least one molecular compound containing at least one silicon atom, c) at least one stage of partial exchange of said alkaline cations by NH4+ cations in such a way that the proportion of alkaline cations remaining in the modified zeolite at the end of stage c) is such that the alkaline cation/aluminum molar ratio ranges between 0.2:1 and 0.01:1, and d) at least one thermal treatment stage.
US08647498B2 Corrosive environment sensor and method for measuring corrosive environment
A corrosive environment sensor for measuring corrosive environment inside a space between a first member that is a conductor and a second member that is a conductor or insulator includes: a base having a surface which cam face the first member that is a conductor; and an electrode which is provided on the surface of the base and formed with a material different in ionization tendency from the first member and which faces at a distance the first member so as to form a galvanic coupling with the first member, and the corrosive environment sensor measures a galvanic current between the electrode and the first member.
US08647496B2 Method, apparatus, and electrolytic solution for electropolishing metallic stents
An apparatus, a method, and an electrolytic solution are described for electropolishing metallic stents made, for example, of high-strength medical alloys. The apparatus may include an electropolishing container made from material of low thermal conductivity. The apparatus may include at least one spiral cathode for optimization of solution agitation and/or voltage distribution in the electrolytic solution. Further, an electrolytic solution including at least dimethylsulfate is described. A method for improved electropolishing to consistently produce smooth surfaces is also described.
US08647495B2 Electrolytically etching method and apparatus of surface of nuclear reactor core internals
Even a site having a complicated curved surface shape, such as a welded spot on a bottom of a nuclear reactor core, is simply and electrolytically etched without discharging an etching liquid in a large amount, whereby grain boundary on the surface of the nuclear reactor core internals can be confirmed visually.When the surface of nuclear reactor core internals is electrolytically etched, a sponge provided with holes having a communicating structure is integrated with an etching liquid, and the etching liquid is gelled, while the integrated combination is disposed in front of an electrode, followed by the application of voltage to turn on electricity at a state in which said electrode is electrically connected to the cathode of a direct-current power supply, and brought into contact with or approximated to the surface of the core internals electrically connected to the anode of the direct-current power supply.
US08647491B2 Pyrophosphate-based bath for plating of tin alloy layers
An aqueous cyanide-free electrolyte bath for plating of tin alloy layers on substrate surfaces comprising (i) a tin ion source and a source for another alloy element, characterized in that it further contains (ii) N-methyl pyrrolidone is described.
US08647483B2 Chlorinators and other fluid receiving devices
Devices for receiving fluid such as water are described. Principally (although not necessarily exclusively) designed for use as chlorinators, the devices may divert water flowing in conduits into the devices for treatment and subsequent return to the flow stream. A device may connect to a pipe without tools and require only one hole to be formed in a pipe wall.
US08647482B2 Electrochemical-catalytic converter for exhaust emission control
The present invention discloses an electrochemical-catalytic converter, which can remove nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HCs) and particulate matter (PM) in exhaust gas. The electrochemical-catalytic converter comprises a cell module, wherein nitrogen oxides are decomposed to form nitrogen through electrochemical promotion, and wherein carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and particulate matter are catalyzed to form carbon dioxide and water by an oxidation catalyst.
US08647474B2 Process for producing papermaker's and industrial fabric seam and seam produced by that method
The invention disclosed herein relates to the use of laser energy to weld or melt selected locations in papermachine clothing (“PMC”) and other industrial and engineered fabrics. The invention also relates to an improved seam for a papermaker or other industrial fabric that has properties such as strength, durability, openness, adequate number of support points, and fiber support index (FSI) essentially the same as the fabric body. The invention also relates to a fabric having a durable seam, wherein the seam width as measured in the MD is a fraction of the width of a normal seam or a seam that is formed using a conventional technique of equal strength.
US08647470B2 Method for producing paper, paperboard and cardboard having high dry strength
Process for the production of paper, board and cardboard having high dry strength by addition of an aqueous composition comprising a nanocellulose and at least one polymer selected from the group consisting of the anionic polymers and water-soluble cationic polymers, draining of the paper stock and drying of the paper products.
US08647468B2 Process for producing microfibrillated cellulose
A process for treating cellulosic fibers comprising pre-treating the fibers with an enzyme in a first enzymatic treatment followed by mechanical pre-treating the fibers in a first mechanical treatment and a second enzymatic treatment followed by a second mechanical treatment of the fibers to form micofibrillated cellulose. In this way it is possible to produce mircofibrillated cellulose (MFC) in an improved and energy efficient way.
US08647466B2 Combinatorial evaluation of dry semiconductor processes
Combinatorial evaluation of dry semiconductor processes is described, including rotating a mask comprising a plurality of apertures, wherein the mask is positioned between a dry semiconductor processing source and the substrate, and performing a dry semiconductor process through the apertures of the mask at a plurality of intervals during the rotating the mask to combinatorially create a plurality of processed regions on the substrate, wherein the apertures of the mask are arranged in such a way that the plurality of processed regions have different geometries relative to the processing source, and analyzing the processed regions to determine effects of time and geometry on the processed regions.
US08647463B2 Method for forming transparent conductive layer pattern
Provided is a low-cost method for easily forming a transparent conductive pattern that has a low electrical resistance and high transparency, and that is highly invisible to the eye. The method for forming a transparent conductive layer pattern includes the steps of (1) detachably forming a transparent conductive layer on a substrate; (2) then forming, on a support, a negative-patterned heat-sensitive adhesive image; (3) bonding the substrate to the support so that the transparent conductive layer and the heat-sensitive adhesive layer are in close contact with each other; (4) forming a pattern of the transparent conductive layer on the substrate by detaching the support from the substrate to transfer a portion of the transparent conductive layer, the portion being in close contact with the heat-sensitive adhesive layer, to the heat-sensitive adhesive layer; and (5) fixing the transparent conductive layer on the substrate by applying a coating material for a protective layer onto a front surface of the substrate on which the pattern of the transparent conductive layer is formed and impregnating the transparent conductive layer with the coating material.
US08647460B1 Shoe having a bottom with bonded and then molded-in particles
Provided is a shoe having a bottom surface that is adjacent to the ground in normal use. A sole, which is sufficiently durable and/or strong for long-term outdoor use, forms at least a portion of the bottom surface, and an upper portion extends above the sole. A plurality of small material particles are bonded to at least a portion of the bottom surface of the shoe.
US08647448B2 Nitratable steel piston rings and steel cylindrical sleeves, and casting method for the production thereof
A steel piston ring and a steel cylinder liner are described which comprise as the main body a steel composition which has good nitridability. The steel composition consists of the following elements: 0-0.5 weight % B, 0.5-1.2 weight % C, 4.0-20.0 weight % Cr, 0-2.0 weight % Cu, 45.30-91.25 weight % Fe, 0.1-3.0 weight % Mn, 0.1-3.0 weight % Mo, 0-0.05 weight % Nb, 2.0-12.0 weight % Ni, 0-0.1 weight % P, 0-0.05 weight % Pb, 0-0.05 weight % S, 2.0-10.0 weight % Si, 0-0.05 weight % Sn, 0.05-2.0 weight % V, 0-0.2 weight % Ti and 0-0.5 weight % W. The steel piston ring and the steel cylinder liner can be manufactured in a casting process using the machinery and technology employed for the manufacture of cast iron parts.
US08647444B2 Rinse aid
A method of washing ware in an automatic ware washing machine, is disclosed, using a rinse aid composition containing a polysaccharide. The polysaccharide adsorbs on the ware resulting in a sheeting action of the rinse solution leading to improved drying of the ware.
US08647440B2 Substrate processing method and substrate processing apparatus
Disclosed is a substrate treatment method intended for a substrate having, on its surface, a composite product of an inorganic material containing silicon oxide and an organic material containing carbon and fluorine. The method comprises: an ultraviolet ray treatment step for irradiating the surface of the substrate with ultraviolet ray to remove a part of the organic material; a hydrogen fluoride processing step which is conducted after the ultraviolet ray processing step and which is for supplying a steam of hydrogen fluoride onto the surface of the substrate to remove at least a part of the inorganic material; and a heating processing step which is conducted after the ultraviolet ray processing step and which is for heating the substrate to cause the shrinkage of a part of the organic material that remains unremoved.
US08647436B2 Carbon ion beam growth of isotopically-enriched graphene and isotope-junctions
Isotopically-enriched graphene and isotope junctions are epitaxially grown on a catalyst substrate using a focused carbon ion beam technique. The focused carbon ion beam is filtered to pass substantially a single ion species including a single desired carbon isotope. The ion beam and filtering together provide a means to selectively isotopically-enrich the epitaxially-grown graphene from given carbon precursor and to selectively deposit graphene enriched with different carbon isotopes in different regions.
US08647429B2 Effect pigments
The present invention relates to effect pigments based on uncoated or coated flake-form substrates having an outer coating comprising a) TiO2 and b) Al2O3, MgO and/or CaO and c) SiO2 and d) ZnO and/or e) at least one mixed oxide of the elements mentioned under a) to d), and to the use thereof, inter alia in paints, coatings, printing inks, plastics and cosmetic formulations.
US08647422B1 Phase change ink comprising a modified polysaccharide composition
A phase change ink composition comprising a wax; an optional colorant; and a modified polysaccharide salt.
US08647417B2 Vacuum insulation units comprising getter materials
A vacuum insulation unit having at least one thermally insulating, evacuatable porous core material which is sealed in an airtight manner and a sorption medium, wherein the sorption medium containing at least one porous metal-organic framework comprising at least one at least bidentate organic compound coordinated to at least one metal ion.
US08647411B2 Method and a device for removing mercury from a process gas
A method of removing mercury from a process gas by means of a sorbent and a filter (10) involves applying said sorbent to at least one filtering surface (12) of the filter (10). A first parameter, which is indicative of the amount of mercury that needs to be removed in said filter (10), and a second parameter, which is indicative of the amount of material that has been collected on said filtering surface (12), are measured. A measured value of said first parameter is compared to a mercury set point. When said measured value of said first parameter is higher than said mercury set point, the cleaning of said filtering surface (12) is delayed, compared to the point in time suggested by a measured value of said second parameter.
US08647403B2 Methods and systems of reducing viscosity of gasification system slag
Methods and systems for gasifier fines recycling system are provided. The system includes a gasifier slag removal system configured to separate first fines from a particulate slag removed from a gasifier by at least one of settling and filtering, a second fines handling system configured to receive second fines from a source other than the gasifier, and an injection system configured to mix the first fines and the second fines and a fuel for injection into the gasifier.
US08647397B2 Lipid pathway modification in oil-bearing microorganisms
The invention provides methods of modifying the lipids produced by microbial organisms through genetic engineering. The invention also provides genetically engineered microbes and methods of fermenting microbes for oil production. Also provided are oils, fuels, oleochemicals, chemical precursors, and other compounds manufactured by such modified microorganisms. Exemplary oil-bearing organisms include organisms containing one or more exogenous genes encoding a fatty acyl-ACP thioesterase, fatty acyl-CoA/aldehyde reductase, fatty acyl-CoA reductase, fatty aldehyde reductase, fatty aldehyde decarbonylase, and/or an acyl carrier protein.
US08647386B2 Expandable intervertebral implant system and method
An intervertebral implant system for a human spine including a first body having a first external surface to be disposed adjacent a first vertebrae during use and a first internal surface opposite the first external surface, a second body having a second external surface to be disposed adjacent a second vertebrae during use and a second internal surface opposite the second external surface, an elongated insertion instrument releasable coupleable to the first or second body during use, and a spacer linearly advanced between the first internal surface of the first body and the first internal surface of the second body during use. The elongated insertion instrument guides at least a portion of the linear advancement of the spacer, and wherein the linear advancement of the spacer results in expansion of the intervertebral implant such that the first external surface and the second external surface move away from one another to expand a height of the implant.
US08647385B2 Apparatus and method for tibial fixation of soft tissue
An apparatus and method for fixation of a soft tissue graft. The apparatus may include a member having a first surface and a second surface. Each of the surfaces extend a distance relative to one another. A member is operable to resist movement of the apparatus relative to an anatomical portion. An interference member may be provided to fixedly associate the apparatus with the anatomical structure.
US08647383B2 Intraocular lens
An intraocular lens in which deterioration in contrast is suppressed even when the optical axis of the intraocular lens is decentered from the optical axis of the eyeball when the intraocular lens is inserted into the eye while the advantage of a conventional aberration reduction type intraocular lens that the image is seen clearly is sustained by employing such a power distribution as respectively having at least one positive power deviation region (E1) having a power larger than that represented by the reference power distribution and at least one negative power deviation region (E2) having a power smaller than that represented by the reference power distribution in the central region of the intraocular lens assuming that a power distribution being set to cancel the spherical aberration of cornea when the intraocular lens is inserted into the eye is the reference power distribution.
US08647374B2 Patient temperature control system with variable gradient warming/cooling
A patient temperature control system (10) uses variable temperature gradient warming/cooling in combination with a warming/cooling device (16), such as a blanket, to increase efficiency in driving a patient's temperature to a desired setpoint, with reduced occurrence of and magnitude of overshoot conditions. In operation, the controller (26) of the system (10) senses the temperature of a patient (12) via a sensor (31), for comparison to a temperature of the circulating water, sensed via sensor (30). If the patient temperature is not sufficiently close to a setpoint temperature, the system (10) is operable to warm/cool the circulating water to a temperature which differs from the patient's temperature by a temperature gradient of 10 ° C., or some other preselected initial temperature gradient. After a subsequent time interval, if the patient temperature has not moved sufficiently close to the setpoint temperature, the controller (26) incrementally raises or lowers the temperature of the circulating water, to intensify the a warming/cooling effect. This procedure repeats at desired intervals, to more efficiently reach the setpoint temperature. Thus, the system (10) is capable of automatically increasing or decreasing the temperature gradient, dependent upon subsequently sensed patient temperatures.
US08647371B2 Locking bone screws and methods of use thereof
The invention encompasses a bone screw for use in the human body including a shaft having a threaded region along at least a portion of its length and a screw head including a locking mechanism to secure the screw, for example to a bone plate. In certain embodiments, the thread has an outer diameter dimensioned to pass through the screw hole in the implant. The screw head is configured to cooperatively engage at least a portion of the screw hole of the implant so as to prevent the screw from coming out of the implant and avoided soft tissue damage and other complications associated with unintended screw removal.
US08647369B2 Minimal profile anterior bracket for spinal fixation
A spinal fixation device for securing to a spine includes a body having one or more longitudinal members extending between a pair of wedge members. Each wedge member defines one or more openings therethrough for the reception of a bone screw. The wedge members are disposed on opposite ends of the one or more longitudinal members. One of the wedge members is positionable within a first intervertebral space and the other wedge member is positionable within a second intervertebral space. The one or more longitudinal members define a length that spans one or more vertebrae. The one or more longitudinal members are positionable within the one or more vertebrae when the wedge members are positioned within the respective first and second intervertebral spaces to maintain the body in a minimal profile orientation relative to the spine.
US08647366B2 Closure medical device and delivery mechanism
A delivery mechanism for deploying a closure device includes several slidable members, a plunger, and attachments to tension members of the closure device. Deployment of the closure device includes controlling placement and expansion of the device within tissue using the tension members, the plunger, and the slidable members.
US08647364B2 Tissue puncture closure device with automatic tamping
A method and apparatus for sealing a puncture or incision formed percutaneously in tissue separating two internal portions of the body of a living being with an anchor, a sealing plug and a filament connecting the anchor and sealing plug. The method and apparatus provide for automatic tamping and/or cinching of the sealing plug when the apparatus is withdrawn from the puncture site. The automatic tamping and/or cinching is facilitated by transducing a motive force generated by the withdrawal of the apparatus into a tamping and/or cinching force.
US08647363B2 Robotically controlled hydraulic end effector system
A hydraulically actuated medical instrument includes an elongated shaft having proximal and distal ends, a hydraulically actuated end effector at the distal end of the shaft and a fluid flow path extending through the shaft to the end effector. The end effector may be directly manually operated by way of a handle located at the proximal end of the shaft or remotely, for example, via robotic controller. Articulation joints may be provided along the shaft, between the shaft and end effector or handle, or elsewhere. The hydraulic actuation of the present invention permits multiple axis instrument articulation, miniaturization and simplified instrument fabrication.
US08647360B2 Vascular filter
An inferior vena cava filter (340) for use in the inferior vena cava (4) to capture thrombus (8) passing through the inferior vena cava (4) towards the heart and lungs to prevent pulmonary embolism comprises a proximal support hoop (302), a distal support hoop (312) and a plurality of support struts (303) extending between the proximal support hoop (302) and the distal support hoop (312). The filter (340) also comprises a plurality of capture arms (121) which are movable from a capturing configuration to an open configuration. The capture arms (121) are biased towards the open configuration. A biodegradable suture holds the capture arms (121) in the capturing configuration.
US08647341B2 Vessel sealer and divider for use with small trocars and cannulas
An endoscopic bipolar forceps includes a housing and a shaft affixed to the housing. The shaft includes a longitudinal axis defined therethrough and a pair of jaw members attached to a distal end thereof. The forceps also includes a drive assembly for moving one of the jaw members relative to the other jaw member from a first position wherein the movable jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative to each other to a second position wherein the jaw members are closer one another for manipulating tissue. A movable handle is included which is rotatable about a pivot to force a drive flange of the movable handle into mechanical cooperation with the drive assembly to move the jaw members from the open and closed positions. The pivot is located a fixed distance from the longitudinal axis and the drive flange is located generally along the longitudinal axis. The forceps is connected to a source of electrosurgical energy connected to each jaw member such that the jaw members are capable of conducting bipolar energy through tissue held therebetween to effect a tissue seal.
US08647336B2 Cryogenic medical device with thermal guard and method
A medical device, system and method are provided for thermal medical treatment. A medical device for cryogenic treatment may include a tip and a thermal guard or shield. The tip may be at a distal end of a catheter shaft, having a distal surface and lateral surfaces. The thermal guard may be coupled to the catheter proximal of the distal tip, surrounding the longitudinal axis and exposing the distal surface, to resist heat transfer from body fluids to the lateral surfaces of the tip. An efficiency of heat transfer from selected tissue to be treated to the distal surface of the cryogenic tip is thereby increased.
US08647335B2 Laser applicator
A laser applicator has a catheter (12) that contains a optical fiber and a lateral decoupling area at the distal end. The end section of the strand is preformed to a loop (16) the plane of which runs crosswise to the main section (14) of the strand. This makes possible an extensive linear introduction of laser energy into the surrounding tissue. The invention is suited especially for the treatment of arrhythmia.
US08647320B2 Device for introducing medicine into an infusion container
A device for adding a medicine to an infusion solution in an infusion container having a removal opening provided with a seal area. A transfer cap, which has a first hollow spike for piercing the seal area, is connected to the removal opening of the infusion container. A receiving means for a medicine container is formed at the transfer cap, which has a second hollow spike for piercing a seal at the medicine container. A valve is arranged between the first and second hollow spikes in the transfer cap, where the valve interrupts the connection between the first and second hollow spikes and can be moved into the open position by the action of a force.
US08647318B2 Underpants-type disposable diaper
An underpants-type disposable diaper is of a size and a water absorption capacity suitable for infants 3 to 6 years old, and is capable of preventing the protrusion of the groin portion of the diaper in use so that leakage does not occur. The leakage can be avoided by increasing the size and the water absorption capacity of the diaper main body to a level suitable for infants 3 to 6 year olds still using diaper and at the same time improving the tracks of a plurality of elastic members disposed along the peripheral edges of leg holes so as to reduce the elasticity in the vertical direction of the crotch section and prevent the protrusion of an infant's groin.
US08647316B2 Foldable ostomy bag for reducing collecting volume
An ostomy receiving bag includes front and rear walls sealed along a rim of the bag and a cover sheet attached to the bag. The bag has a lateral midline located between an upper end of the bag and a bottom end of the bag, with an inlet opening nearer to the upper end than to the bottom end of the bag. The cover sheet is attached to the upper end of the bag at the rim and covers at least part of one of the walls to form a pocket and an unattached edge between the upper end of the bag and the bottom end of the bag. A collecting volume of the bag is reduced by at least 25% when the bottom end of the bag is placed under the cover sheet to a position between the lateral midline and the upper end of the bag.
US08647314B2 Gingival wafer
Strip-shaped forms of administration for administering an active ingredient via the mucous membrane of the gums.
US08647313B2 Spring clip safety IV catheter
A safety IV catheter includes a unitary, resilient needle guard received in a catheter hub. The needle guard includes a proximal arm or wall that includes an opening through which a needle passes for axial movement. When the needle is retracted from the catheter, it releases the force that had previously prevented movement of the needle guard within the catheter hub. This in turn causes the needle guard to snap into a position in which it is clamped onto the needle shaft and in which its distal wall blocks access to the needle tip. In this condition, the spring needle guard and needle can be removed from the catheter hub. A slot or crimp may be formed in the needle shaft that engages with the needle guard after the protected needle and needle guard are removed from the catheter hub, thereby to prevent removal of the protected needle from the needle guard.
US08647307B2 Needle protection device with a blocked protective position
A needle protection device including a needle holder for operable coupling to an injection device and from which an injection needle projects, a blocking device which projects from the needle holder and is radially distanced from the injection needle, a needle protection element which can be moved into a first position and, from the first position, to a protection position in which it surrounds the injection needle, and which can be blocked from leaving the protection position by the blocking device, and a safety member arranged between the injection needle and the needle protection element in such a way that it can be displaced in relation to the injection needle, wherein the needle protection element includes an engagement element and the safety member includes a counter-element, the engagement element and counter-element mutually engaging when the needle protection element is moved into the first position, the needle protection element thereby entraining the safety member during movement of the needle protection element into the protection position.
US08647301B2 Safety catheter device with removably attached housing
A safety catheter device includes a catheter hub, a housing removably coupled to the catheter hub; a needle, and a member, the housing including a radially outwardly directed projection operable to engage the interior aspect of the catheter hub and radially moveable inwardly sufficiently to disengage therefrom, the projection being held against moving radially inwardly sufficiently to disengage when the needle is in a first position with the needle distal tip exposed and being free to move radially inwardly sufficiently to disengage coincident with the needle being moved into a second position with the needle distal tip disposed in the housing.
US08647300B2 Device for connecting a suction hose
The device according to the invention for connecting a suction hose has a connecting piece which is designed in such a way that the suction hose can be pushed over a region of the connecting piece in a sealing manner. The device also comprises a sleeve which can be pushed over the aforementioned region of the connecting piece, at least partially covering said piece and leaving room between the sleeve and the connecting piece for the suction hose. The connection between the sleeve and the connecting piece can only be separated by the destruction of at least one of said two parts. The design of the exterior of the sleeve prevents a second suction hose from lying in a sealing manner against the sleeve. A suction hose that is connected in a sealing manner to the claimed device can therefore not be removed without destroying the device. In addition, it is impossible to push a hose with a greater diameter onto the sleeve in a sealing manner.
US08647296B2 Methods and apparatuses for detecting occlusions in an ambulatory infusion pump
An improved pump, reservoir and reservoir piston are provided for controlled delivery of fluids. A motor is operably coupled to a drive member, such as a drive screw, which is adapted to advance a plunger slide in response to operation of the motor. The plunger slide is removably coupled to the piston. A method, system, and an article of manufacture for automatically detecting an occlusion in a medication infusion pump is provided. The electrical current to an infusion pump is measured. Based on measurements of one or more variables, the infusion pump detects whether there is an occlusion in the system. The methods of detecting occlusions may be dynamic.
US08647294B2 Direct stream hydrodynamic catheter system
A direct stream hydrodynamic catheter system is provided for the removal of thrombus, lesions and the like including provisions for the infusion of drugs, lysing fluids and the like into a blood vessel. Physician controlled high powered direct fluid jet streams emanate from a fluid jet emanator in the form of robust radially directed fluid jet streams to impinge upon and ablate difficult and strong thrombus or lesions within a blood vessel. Effluent aspiration is controlled by an exhaust regulator in the form of a roller pump, but effluent removal can be assistingly influenced by the fluid pressure associated with the radially directed fluid jet streams.
US08647284B2 System and method for mapping complex fractionated electrogram information
A system for presenting information representative of patient electrophysiological activity, such as complex fractionated electrogram information, includes at least one electrode to measure electrogram information from the heart surface, at least one processor coupled to the at least one electrode to receive the electrogram information and measure a location of the at least one electrode within the heart, and a presentation device to present the electrogram information as associated with the location at which it was measured on a model of the patient's heart. A memory may also be provided in which to store the associated electrogram information and measured location. Data may be analyzed using both time-domain and frequency-domain information to create a three-dimensional map. The map displays the data as colors, shades of color, and/or grayscales, and may further utilize contour lines, such as isochrones, to present the information.
US08647279B2 Volume mechanical transducer for medical diagnostic ultrasound
A one-dimensional array is used for transmit operation, allowing connection with an imaging system for planar scanning and avoiding transmit electronics in the transducer array. A multi-dimensional array is used for reception only, avoiding transmit interconnects while providing greater coherence in elevation. Both arrays are moved to scan different planes, allowing acquisition of data representing a volume. This transducer arrangement may be used for scanning breasts for cancer screening.
US08647274B2 Ultrasound diagnosis apparatus, image processing apparatus, and image processing method
According to one embodiment, an ultrasound diagnosis apparatus includes a motion information generating unit and a control unit. The motion information generating unit generates first motion information on cardiac wall motion of at least one of a left ventricle and a left atrium and second motion information on cardiac wall motion of at least one of a right ventricle and a right atrium, on the basis of a first volume data group and a second volume data group; generates first correction information and second correction information by correcting the first motion information and the second motion information such that the first motion information and the second motion information are substantially synchronized with each other, and generates a motion information image in which the first correction information and the second correction information are arranged along the time axis. The control unit controls to display the motion image information.
US08647264B1 Medical diagnostic system for detecting indicia of acute otitis media
A medical diagnostic system includes an otoscope, which is configured to generate at least a first image (e.g., digital photograph) of a tympanic membrane of a patient, and an apparatus for diagnosing acute otitis media within the patient. The apparatus includes a computer-readable storage medium having computer-readable program code embodied in the medium. The computer-readable program code includes a first computer-readable program code that evaluates the at least a first image of the tympanic membrane of the patient relative to a database containing at least one image of a tympanic membrane of at least one archived patient, to thereby detect indicia of acute otitis media in the patient.
US08647254B2 Epicardial clip
An epicardial clip for reshaping the annulus of the mitral valve of a heart. The epicardial clip includes a curved member having an anterior segment configured to be positioned in the transverse sinus of the heart, a posterior segment configured to be positioned on the posterior side of the heart, such as on or inferior to the atrioventricular groove, and a lateral segment extending between the anterior segment and the posterior segment. The lateral segment includes a curve such that the first end of the member is positioned at or above the plane of the mitral valve and the second end of the member is positioned at or below the plane of the mitral valve.
US08647247B2 Continuous motion case former
Among other things, a case forming system is provided. The system includes a conveyance apparatus for conveying case precursors along a conveyance path and a case set-up apparatus characterized by a case forming member. Upstream case precursors are conveyed along the conveyance path for operation thereupon by the case forming member. A case forming mandrel of a mandrel assembly is movably mounted in relation to the conveyance apparatus for continuous motion with respect thereto. The continuous motion is delimited by travel of the case forming mandrel between an upstream locus and a downstream locus of the conveyance path, and reversible extension of the case forming mandrel towards case precursors during travel between the upstream locus and the downstream locus of the conveyance path.
US08647246B2 Pressure sealing system
The present invention discloses a sealing system for sealing together at least a pair of flexible pouch material layers. The sealing station can have a first sealing bar, a second sealing bar and a drive system that is in contact with the first sealing bar. The drive system is operable to move the first sealing bar between an open position and a closed position such that the first sealing bar can apply a predefined pressure on the flexible pouch material layers when positioned or located between the sealing bars. A pressure sensor is also included and in communication with the drive system, the pressure sensor operable to detect if the drive system applies less or too much pressure than the predefined pressure on the flexible pouch material layers located between the first and second sealing bars.
US08647237B2 Method of operating a drive train of a motor vehicle and corresponding drive train
A method for selectively coupling a motor to a drive train of a motor vehicle using a clutch having a first clutch part driven by the motor, a second clutch part associated with the drive train and an actuator, the method includes the steps of: accelerating the first clutch part while simultaneously activating the actuator during a first actuation phase without engaging the first and second clutch parts; suspending activation of the actuator until a predefined rotational speed difference is reached between the first and second clutch parts; and engaging the first and second clutch parts during a second actuation phase upon reaching the predefined speed difference.
US08647229B2 Load split mechanism for gear transmission
A method and apparatus for a transmission system selectively positioning sets of planet gear support bearings (50, 55, 80, 90) to achieve an optimized load distribution among a set of drive planet pinions (22) and a set of idler planet pinions (70) disposed in engagement between two reaction gears (30, 40) in the transmission system (A, A1), for splitting an applied load between at least two pathways between an input and an output.
US08647223B2 V-belt
A durable V-belt formed by fastening plate-like elements juxtaposed annularly using a ring. The element comprises a saddle face on which the ring is disposed, columns extending radially outwardly from lateral ends of a saddle face, and flank faces formed on lateral ends of the column to be contacted with a groove of a V-pulley to transmit power. An angle between outer circumferential portions of the flank faces is substantially identical to or smaller than an open angle of the groove of the V-pulley; and an angle between inner circumferential portions of the flank faces is larger than the angle between the outer circumferential portions.
US08647214B2 Methods and devices for analyzing golf swings
A method and electronic device for analyzing golf swings associates actual ball flight data with sensed swing characteristics. The electronic device includes a location-determining component; a sensor; a display; and a computing device all housed within a portable, handheld or wearable enclosure. The computing device may associate the ball flight data with the swing characteristic data by storing the data together in memory, linking the data in memory, displaying representations of the data together, or by any other method. The computing device may also create a reference profile for a golfer based on ball flight data and sensed swing characteristics for a plurality of golf swings and may associate swing characteristics with particular golf clubs.
US08647210B2 Constant velocity universal joint
A constant velocity universal joint includes an outer joint member in which at least one end portion is open, an inner joint member for transmitting torque together with the outer joint member through balls under a state in which angular displacement is allowed, and a boot for closing an opening portion of the outer joint member. The boot has a small diameter end portion fitted onto a shaft extending from the inner joint member, a lip portion abutting on an outer peripheral surface of the shaft, and a ventilation groove for establishing communication between an inside and an outside of the boot. The lip portion and the ventilation groove are formed in an inner peripheral surface of the small diameter end portion of the boot.
US08647209B1 System and method for creating and/or serving online games embedded in websites
Online games embedded in webpages of websites may be created and/or served through a system and/or method. The games may be embedded in websites that are hosted separately from the games. The games may be designed by the website operators and/or other entities associated with the websites, and may include content from the websites to drive engagement with the websites and their content. An interface may be provided to the website operators to facilitate efficient and intuitive configuration of games that use website content. Such games may be served separately from the websites. As such, the games may provide a convenient, efficient, and/or effective mechanism for enhancing engagement of users with the website and/or its content.
US08647206B1 Systems and methods for interfacing video games and user communications
Systems and methods for interfacing video games and user communications are provided. Communications amongst users can affect a video game provided to the users. For example, communications can be monitored to determine when a video game event occurs and then a video game event can be generated. Moreover, one or more aspects of the video game can affect communications amongst the users. For example, the active user of a video game may be used to adjust the prominence of communications amongst the users.
US08647202B2 Companion object customization
A game-interactive customizable companion object includes a body, a communication subsystem housed within the body, and a behavior subsystem configured to control movement of the body. The behavior subsystem may include an initiation module configured to set initial behavioral characteristics of the companion object in accordance with the companion object profile, and an update module configured to change behavioral characteristics of the companion object responsive to control commands received from the entertainment system via the communication subsystem.
US08647200B2 Game system, game process method, game device, and storage medium storing game program
An example game device performs a game process based on operation data representing an operation performed on a controller. The game device generates a first game image representing a game space as viewed from a first virtual camera which is set in the game space, and displays the first game image on a television. A second virtual camera, different from the first virtual camera, is set in the game space based on operation data for a terminal device. The game device generates a second game image representing the game space as viewed from the second virtual camera, and displays the second game image on the terminal device. In response to an execution of a predetermined operation on the terminal device 7, the game device stores image information regarding the second game image in a predetermined storage device.
US08647199B2 Bingo game system and method
Presented is a system and method for generating bingo game bonuses that are non-banked, for use with pooled bingo games. The system generates pools of money for use in bingo games by deducting a percentage of the amount used to purchase bingo cards (in the present invention, virtual bingo cards). Each bingo game automatically enrolls active players in one or more bonus games, exemplified by “4 corners,” where the amounts to be given away to players as bonuses are calculated to be equal, over time, to the amount taken in from players buying bingo cards. The house has no stake in the bonus awards.
US08647193B2 Server, gaming system, gaming machine, and control method of the server capable of changing minimum bet unit in gaming machine
A server is provided with an input device with which an input for selecting a minimum bet unit out of a plurality of minimum bet units can be made. Minimum bet unit information indicative of the selected minimum bet information is transmitted to a gaming machine. On receiving the minimum bet unit information, the minimum bet unit in the gaming machine having received the minimum bet unit information is changed to the minimum bet unit selected in the server.
US08647182B2 Exhaust fan assembly
An exhaust fan assembly is provided for expelling contaminated air from a building. The assembly includes a plenum, a fan assembly attached to the plenum, and a windband mounted on top of the fan assembly. The fan assembly is constructed of cylindrical outer and inner walls which define a bearing chamber and surrounding annular space. A fan driven by a shaft extending downward from the bearing chamber draws exhaust air from the plenum and blows it up through the annular space to a nozzle at the top of the fan assembly.
US08647167B2 Lighted display devices for producing static or animated visual displays, including animated facial features
An illuminated display device with a base member with a plurality of cavities therein. Illumination devices illuminate the cavities and emit light through an opening of the cavities in a pattern, and a speaker can emit sounds in synchronization with the pattern. A panel with translucent portions can overly the base member and the cavities. An animated talking character can have an animated mouth cavity complex with multiple predetermined mouth lighting configurations simulative of human utterances. The cavities can be open, or optical waveguide material or positive members can be disposed therein. Reflective material can enhance internal reflectance and light emission.
US08647166B2 Entertainment device including a remote controlled magnetic mini-craft
The present document describes an entertainment device including one or more mini-crafts provided in a fluid medium within the sides of an electromagnetic frame. Each mini-craft includes a magnet and has a different cutoff frequency. Motion of the mini-crafts may be controlled by a user using a controller such as joystick, remote control etc. A processor computes, based on the multidirectional navigation signals received from the controller, electromagnetic signals for each coil in the electromagnetic frame. The electromagnetic signals are amplified and sent to the coils to generate superimposed rotating magnetic fields which cause the mini-crafts to rotate separately within the electromagnetic frame, each mini-craft following a distinct magnetic field with a frequency that is lower than its cutoff frequency.
US08647164B2 Organic electroluminescent element, production method of the same, display device, and lighting device
An organic electroluminescent element includes a laminated body incorporating an anode substrate, an anode, at least one non-light emitting organic layer A exhibiting positive hole transportability, at least one light emitting organic layer B, at least one non-light emitting organic layer C exhibiting electron transportability, a cathode, and a cathode substrate in the sequence set forth. At least 80% by weight of the organic layer A and the organic layer C in the laminated body is formed via a wet process, and the laminated body is made with an adhesion process between the organic layer A and the organic layer B, or between the organic layer B and the organic layer C.
US08647159B2 Apparatus and method for effecting electrical termination with a plurality of types of termination structures
An apparatus for effecting electrical termination with a plurality of types of termination structures includes: (a) a base member presenting a face in a first direction; and (b) a plurality of electrically conductive connection members extending in the first direction from the face. Each respective connection member of the plurality of connection members presents a rod-shaped post. Each post has a first portion presenting a threaded structure and has a second portion presenting an unthreaded structure. The rod-shaped post of selected connection members may further include a tapped opening located along a longitudinal axis of the respective connection member.
US08647150B2 Water proof type electrical connector
A waterproof electrical connector for electrically connecting wiring to a mating connector having a concavity, the waterproof electrical connector having a contact connected to an end of a wire, a housing having a fitting section configured to at least partially house the contact and configured for insertion into the concavity, a seal integrally arranged on an outer periphery surface near a top end of the fitting section, which sealingly contacts an inner wall of the concavity when the fitting section is inserted into the concavity, and a lock which prevents the housing from exiting the concavity once the fitting section has been inserted into concavity to a predetermined depth is disclosed.
US08647147B2 Dual conductor cable connector
A connector assembly for use with dual conductor cable is disclosed. The connector assembly includes a first connector, a second connector, first and second fixture wires, and first and second connector terminals. The first and second connectors are removably attachable. The first connector includes a first connector base, two prongs extending from the first connector base, and a first connector slot for accepting the first connector terminal. The second connector includes a second connector base, two wings extending from the second connector base, and a second connector slot for accepting the second connector terminal. The wings are sized and configured to accept the two prongs when the first and second connectors are joined. The first and second connector terminals include a spike extending generally away from the base of the connector into which the terminal has been secured. The first connector terminal is secured in the first connector in electrical communication with the first fixture wire, and the second connector terminal is secured in the second connector in electrical communication with second fixture wire. The first and second connectors, when joined by the insertion of the prongs between the wings, define a central portion sized to allow the passage of the dual conductor cable to which the first and second connectors are connected. When the first and second connectors are joined with the dual connector cable located in the central portion, the spikes of the first and second terminals penetrate into the dual conductor cable, whereby the dual conductor cable is placed into electrical communication with the first and second fixture wire.
US08647144B2 Connector having guide member supported by plug and jack when they are connected, and connector connecting method
A plug of a connector includes plug-side electrode terminals arranged therein, the plug having a first engagement part on one end side in a direction of arrangement of the plug-side electrode terminals and a second engagement part on the other end side. A jack of the connector includes jack-side electrode terminals arranged therein, the jack having a third engagement part on one end side in a direction of arrangement of the jack-side electrode terminals and a fourth engagement part on the other end side. A guide member has a fifth engagement part and a sixth engagement part, the fifth engagement part configured to engage with the first engagement part of the plug and the third engagement part of the jack, the sixth engagement part configured to engage with the second engagement part of the plug and the fourth engagement part of the jack.
US08647141B2 Board-to-board connector assembly
A board-to-board connector assembly has a female connector and a male connector. The female connector has a first insulative housing, multiple first terminals and a latching bar. The first insulative housing has a locking recess and a releasing recess. The latching bar is mounted pivotally on the first insulative housing and selectively engages the locking recess or releasing recess. The male connector has a second insulative housing, multiple second terminals and two latched elements. The latched elements are mounted in the second insulative housing and each latched element has a latched hole selectively engaging with the latching bar to prevent the male connector from falling out of the female connector.
US08647140B2 Electrical plug-in connector and electrical connection system
An electrical plug-in connector/an electrical connection system is used between a socket of an igniter module and an electronic control unit for a restraint system in motor vehicles. The plug-in connector comprises a housing with one or more locking arms for locking the housing to the socket. The locking arms reinforce the lock mechanism when a force is applied to pull the plug-in connector from the socket without actuating the locking arms. Alternatively, the plug-in connector/connection system comprises a housing with one or more locking arms that are selectable between a locking position and an unlocking position. The locking arms are at least partially elastic, and serve to lock the housing to the socket. When a force is applied to pull the plug-in connector from the socket, the locking arms are locking when in the locking position and releasably snapping when in the unlocking position.
US08647139B2 Electrical connector for digital band
Disclosed is a connector for a digital band, which is attached to the digital band and is quickly and easily attachable to an external circuit. The connector for a digital band includes a body portion having one end attached to the digital band, and at least one conductive portion connected to the digital yarn, and an insertion portion attached to the other end of the body portion and having at least one land connected to the conductive portion and exposed to the outside.
US08647138B1 Electrical connector
An electrical connector includes an electrical connecting base for bearing a chip module, a press cover and an operating member. The press cover is covering on the electrical connecting base, and has a first fixing portion and a second fixing portion. A center line of the press cover passes through the second fixing portion. The press cover is provided with a first pressing portion and a second pressing portion for pressing the chip module. The first pressing portion and the second pressing portion are respectively located on two sides of the center line, and the second pressing portion is closer to the second fixing portion than the first pressing portion is. The operating member has a locking portion for pressing the second fixing portion, and an operating portion extending from the locking portion. The first pressing portion is closer to the operating portion than the second pressing portion is.
US08647137B2 Connector
A connector according to the present invention comprises a housing and a plurality of contacts. The housing includes a mating portion having a plate shape. The mating portion projects forward and has an upper surface and a bottom surface. The plurality of contacts is held by the housing. Each of the contacts comprises a contact portion, an end portion and a flat portion. The contact portion extends in a connection direction and is exposed at the upper surface of the mating portion. The end portion is embedded in the mating portion. The flat portion forms a boundary between the contact portion and the end portion and does not projects from the upper surface. The flat portion is able to be viewed from above the upper surface of the mating portion.
US08647135B2 Lock device
A lock device locks a lid, which protects the inlet, and a power supplying plug. The lock device includes a helical gear rotated by the motor. A helical gear is connected to a control shaft. The control shaft is moved to a hook lock bar lock position when the helical gear rotates counterclockwise from the reference position. The helical gear is connected by a transmission member to a lid lock bar. The lid lock bar is constantly urged toward a lid lock position by a coil spring. When the helical gear rotates clockwise from the reference position, the lid lock bar moves to the lid unlock position against the urging force of the coil spring.
US08647134B2 Charge cord lock for electric vehicle
A charge cord assembly for a vehicle having a charging receptacle for engaging the charge cord during battery recharging. The charge cord assembly includes an electric cord extending between a source of electric current and the charging receptacle; a cord end connector engaging the electric cord and having a electrical socket engaging the charging receptacle, a latch hook that selectively secures the cord end connector to the charging receptacle, a release handle, a release linkage assembly engaged between the release handle and the latch hook to release the latch hook from the charging receptacle when the release handle is actuated; and a lock assembly having a locked position that prevents the release linkage assembly from releasing the latch hook from the charging receptacle and an unlocked position that allows the release linkage assembly to release the latch hook from the charging receptacle when the release handle is actuated.
US08647113B2 Method for manufacturing a cement clinker, and cement clinker manufacturing facility
A method for manufacturing a cement clinker includes a rotary furnace, a cyclone preheater receiving the fumes from said rotary furnace, an air blowing clinker cooler, and at least one heat exchanger, referred to as a first heat exchanger. The raw materials are preheated and decarbonated in said cyclone preheater. The clinker is cooled in said clinker cooler. A first portion of the hot air generated by said clinker cooler, or so-called secondary air, is directed to the rotary furnace to be used as combustion air. A second portion of the hot air generated, or so-called tertiary air, is directed and carried separately from the first portion to a place in the facility where fuel is burned. A third portion of hot air generated in said clinker cooler, or so-called excess air, is carried into at least said first heat exchanger for the purpose of recovering power to produce electricity.
US08647112B2 Combustor assembly of water heater
A combustor assembly of a water heater, which is provided between an air blower and a burner set to guide air from the air blower to the burner set, includes a first board, a second board and a third board stacked in sequence. Between the first board and the second board there is a first chamber and a first port, and between the second board and the first board there is a second chamber and a second port. The second board and the third board both have apertures. These boards restrict and divide an air flow of the air blower to flow along several paths to increase heat efficiency.
US08647111B2 Gas combustion apparatus
A method of combusting ammonia is described, in which an exhaust gas containing varying amounts of at least ammonia and hydrogen is conveyed from a chamber to a combustion nozzle (34) connected to a combustion chamber (36). A combustion gas for forming a combustion flame within the chamber is supplied to the chamber. Depending on the relative amounts of ammonia and hydrogen exhaust from the chamber, hydrogen is added to the exhaust gas so that, when the exhaust gas contains ammonia, the gas combusted by the flame contains at least a predetermined amount of hydrogen.
US08647108B2 Adjustable aligning device for large composite moulds
An adjustable aligning device (300) for large composite molds comprising a first half part and a second half part includes a first member (1) and a second member (2) which are coupled to the first half part and the second half part of the molds respectively. The first member (1) and the second member (2) have mating portions and are capable of moving relative to each other. The adjustable aligning device (300) allows the fine calibration of overbite of the mold, and can reduce the time and skill needed for aligning the molds.
US08647103B2 Modular clamp station with variable pitch
A method and modular mold clamp assembly for use in a molding machine. The assembly has a frame with a base member. The base member has end members provided thereon. Radial adjustment mechanisms are mounted on the end members, with the radial adjustment members configured to cooperate with turntables of the molding machine. At least one support bracket extends from the frame. The support bracket is configured to cooperate with at least one support fixture of the molding machine. The radial adjustment mechanisms and the at least one support bracket allow the modular mold clamp assembly to be moved toward and away from the center of a wheel of the molding machine.
US08647100B2 Injection moulding machine and hydraulic unit for this
An injection molding machine includes an injection unit with drive units form the movement of the injection unit and for the injection and after-pressure stroke of the plasticizing screw, a tool clamping plate, a mould closing unit with a drive unit form the mould movement and tool closing force and a drive unit for a workpiece ejector device, wherein at least one drive unit is a hydraulic drive unit with a hydraulic pump, a hydraulic cylinder and control valves to activate the hydraulic cylinder, and wherein the hydraulic fluid is an electrorheological fluid and the control valve for the hydraulic cylinder is an electrorheological valve.
US08647094B1 Apparatus and methods for building or drywall tools
The present invention is directed to construction tools. The present invention includes tools used for applying mastic or mud to a work surface, for example, a flat box mastic applicator tool, blade assembly, and/or blade adjustment system, that have many improvements too numerous to mention all in the Abstract. The flat box mastic applicator may include unique walls. The blade assembly may have a non-uniform cross section, e.g., a blade holder with thinner areas and/or material removed at various locations along its lateral length. The blade holder may have a larger size outer end(s) to withstand bending or braking. The blade holder may have and arched shape, ribs or bumps for holding a blade more firmly, and a ridge or bump at its outer edge to act as a dam. The blade adjustment system may include symmetrical pins or posts and a tapered leaf spring. See further improvements herein.
US08647093B2 Device and a method for compression moulding of a fibre tray
A device for manufacturing a tray of cellulose material, includes: a compression mold including an essentially flat bottom end and surrounding sides for compression molding and drying of cellulose pulp to a finished tray; a male mold arranged to fit into the compression mold and that includes a bottom space and lateral surfaces corresponding to the compression mold, wherein the compression mold and the male mold between themselves delimit a mold space including a base section and a side section for compression molding of the cellulose pulp. Both the compression mold and the male mold are provided with blow and suction devices for blowing in and suction of fluid in and out of the mold space. The blow and suction devices include an inlet pipe having an inlet valve, coupled to an inlet chamber in connection with the mold space, and an outlet pipe having an outlet valve separated from the inlet pipe and coupled to an outlet chamber in connection with the mold space.
US08647089B2 Dual rotor pump
A pump includes a pump body defining first and second cavities. First and second rotors are disposed in the first and second cavities between an inlet passage and an outlet passage and are in sealing relationship with each other during rotation of the rotors. A drive transmission mechanism is coupled to the first and second rotors for rotating the rotors in opposite directions. During a revolution of the first rotor, a vane projecting from the first rotor emerges from a recess of the second rotor, passes the inlet passage and the outlet passage, and enters a recess of the second rotor, while the inlet passage remains sealed from the outlet passage.
US08647086B2 Enclosed compressor
An enclosed compressor includes a compression element configured to compress a working fluid, a casing and a fixing member. The casing has a substantially cylindrical shell plate and houses the compression element. The fixing member is welded to the shell plate. The compression element is fixed to the fixing member by at least six fastening bolts.
US08647084B2 Cylinder dividing mechanism of a pneumatic tool
In a cylinder dividing mechanism of a pneumatic tool, the first and second air pressure driving spaces are formed in the chamber, the first and second external channels are set externally on the circumferential wall, the first external channel is connected with the first air intake and air intake/exhaust dividing controller, and the second external channel is connected with the second air intake and air intake/exhaust dividing controller. As such, a single chamber is provided with two air pressure driving spaces for synchronous compression and driving of the rotor. The driving torsion for the pneumatic tool could be multiplied without need of increasing the volume of the chamber of the cylinder to cater for the need of the users with improved applicability.
US08647068B2 Blade tip for a rotor blade of a wind turbine and a method of inserting the blade tip into a rotor blade
A blade tip for a rotor blade of a wind turbine, and a method of inserting the blade tip into a rotor blade are provided. The blade tip for the rotor blade of a wind turbine simplifies the installation and the replacement of the blade tip as well as a method of inserting such a blade tip. The blade tip can be inserted by means of an adjustable clamping wedge so as to simplify replacement of the tip if necessary. The associated method of inserting the blade tip outside the shell mould removes the likelihood of damage to the shell mould due to sawing.
US08647067B2 Banked platform turbine blade
A turbine blade includes an airfoil and integral platform at the root thereof. The platform is contoured in elevation from a bank adjacent the pressure side of the airfoil to a trough commencing behind the airfoil leading edge.
US08647064B2 Bucket assembly cooling apparatus and method for forming the bucket assembly
A bucket assembly and a method for forming the bucket assembly are disclosed. The bucket assembly includes a platform, an airfoil, and a lower body portion. The platform defines a platform cooling circuit configured to flow cooling medium therethrough. The airfoil extends radially outward from the platform. The lower body portion extends radially inward from the platform. The lower body portion defines a root and a cooling passage extending from the root. The cooling passage is configured to flow cooling medium therethrough. The platform and lower body portion further include a ligament between the cooling passage and the platform cooling circuit. The ligament defines a bore hole extending through the ligament between the cooling passage and the platform cooling circuit.
US08647056B2 Variable geometry turbomachine
Variable geometry turbomachine with a bearing housing, an adjacent turbine housing, a turbine wheel rotating in the turbine housing about a turbine axis; an inlet passage upstream of the turbine wheel between inlet surfaces of first and second wall members, one wall member moveable along the turbine axis to vary the inlet passage size; vanes across the inlet passage connected to a first wall member; an array of vane slots defined by the second wall member to receive the vanes for relative movement between the wall members; the second wall member comprising a shroud defining vane slots; the second wall member supported by a support member retained by a mounting feature; the mounting feature being one of the bearing housings, the turbine housing, or the actuation element; and the shroud is fixed to the support member so axial movement of the shroud relative to the support member is substantially prevented.
US08647049B2 Gas turbine engine casing assembly
High bypass ratio turbofan propulsion engines are designed with a two-step approach to surviving foreign object damage to the fan assembly. First, a containment system encircling the fan assembly to capture any part of a released fan blade in the event of damage occurring, and two in order to cope with the vibrations resulting from a rotating unbalanced fan assembly the support structure for the bearing of the rotating assembly is constructed with frangible parts to introduce a snubber gap to permit the rotating, unbalanced fan assembly and bearing to orbit thereby to reduce the resulting vibrations. However, in the case of very wide chord fan assemblies, the largest acceptable snubber gap is insufficient to reduce the induced vibrations. The present solution is to incorporate into the containment system, and behind a fan track liner encircling the fan blades, at least one severance member having a cutting edge that will impact the tips of the blades of an orbiting fan assembly thereby to trim the mass distribution of the fan blades in order to reduce the vibrations caused by the out of balance forces.
US08647047B2 Method and system for controlling a turbocompressor group
A method for controlling at least two turbocompressors (1.1, 2.1), each having a control device (1.2, 2.2) for maintaining a distance relative to a surge limit curve (P1, P2) of the respective turbocompressor; wherein a first distance (A1.1, A2.1) is determined for each turbocompressor from its surge limit curve; wherein the distance to be maintained can be trimmed relative to this first distance in the control devices; and wherein the distance (A2.2) of a control device (2.2) to be maintained is trimmed relative to its first distance (A2.1) based on a trimming (A1.1→A1.2) of another control device (1.2) in such a way that a total process variable (dV/dt) remains substantially constant.
US08647046B2 Device for presenting a product to a manipulator as well as system and method for automated loading of a carrier
The invention provides a device for presenting a product to a manipulator, comprising a transfer location provided with a number of mutually parallel first support elements, each having an elongated horizontal first support edge, and a number of strip-shaped second support elements extending parallel to each other and perpendicular to said first support elements, each having an elongated horizontal second support edge, wherein the first support elements on the one hand and the second support elements on the other hand can move vertically up and down relative to each other. This way spaces can be made between the first support elements and between the second support elements respectively, in which spaces finger means of a manipulator can be inserted for picking up a product. The invention further provides a system and a method for automated loading of a carrier.
US08647034B2 System and method for securing a load onto a trailer
A system and method for securing a load onto a trailer is described. Specifically, a load-securing device can comprise a first casing mountable to a trailer, wherein said casing comprises a first front driveshaft access orifice and a first plate screw orifice, a first threaded driveshaft mounted in said casing wherein the first end of said first driveshaft is mateable with a first rotation actuator, further wherein the front end of said first threaded drive shaft is accessible by said first front driveshaft access orifice.
US08647032B2 Hole saw with depth stop
A hole saw includes a depth stop for limiting the depth of penetration of the hole saw into a workpiece. The blade of the hole saw includes a plurality of slots, one of which is used to receive the depth stop. The depth stop is mounted to the blade by positioning a portion of the depth stop within the slot and sliding the depth stop from an unsecured position to a secured position. Once in the secured position, a locking member is moved within the depth stop to secure the depth stop in place. In use, the blade is advanced through the workpiece until the depth stop contacts the proximal surface of the workpiece.
US08647022B2 Broaching tool
A broaching apparatus includes a first tooth having a front face, a rear face opposite the front face, and a first cutting surface have a lobed shape extending along a first side of the first tooth between the front face and the rear face. A first interface defined between the first cutting surface and the front face is offset relative to a second interface defined between the first cutting surface and the rear face in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to an axis of tooth movement for broaching operations to provide tool clearance rearward from the first interface. A method of making a broach cutter is further provided.
US08647008B2 Spine label pocket for a binder cover
A binding cover having a transparent overlay cover disposed over and around the spine of the binding is configured to provide a label pocket on the spine portion of the binding cover wherein a label may be inserted easily without tools or rigid label material. In several embodiments the label pocket provides a fixed label space. In another embodiment the label pocket opens along the spine when the binding cover is opened, and returns to a closed position when closed, thereby retaining a label inserted therein. In another embodiment a method for forming the label pocket is provided.
US08647006B2 Tube with resilient applicator and scraper for dispensing texture materials
A system for applying a coating to an untextured portion of a destination surface comprises a tube member defining a container opening, texture material within the tube member, a sponge member defining an applicator surface and a sponge opening. The texture material comprises a binder and visually perceivable discrete particles. The sponge member is secured to the tube member such that the texture material can flow out of the tube member through the sponge opening. The texture material is displaced out of the tube member and onto the applicator surface. The applicator surface of the sponge member is displaced substantially along a dispensing axis perpendicular to the applicator surface towards and away from the destination surface with the applicator surface substantially parallel to the destination surface to transfer the texture material to the destination surface.
US08646997B2 Ink ribbon cassette
An ink ribbon cassette is provided with a shaft container including a reel-out shaft holder having a reel-out shaft bearing journaling an ink ribbon reel-out shaft; a reel-in shaft holder having a reel-in shaft bearing journaling an ink ribbon reel-in shaft; and a pair of lateral bodies connecting the reel-out shaft holder to the reel-in shaft holder. A reel-out shaft holder cover 19 adapted to cover the reel-out shaft holder of the shaft container is connected to the reel-out shaft holder via a first connecting body. A reel-in shaft holder cover adapted to cover the reel-in shaft holder of the shaft container is connected to the reel-in shaft holder via a second connecting body. The first and second connecting bodies and have two or more hinges.
US08646996B2 Method of setting paper in a printer, and a printer
When the paper loaded in a printer is changed to a different type of paper, the paper setting in the printer can be easily updated without a paper mismatch error occurring. When the paper is replaced or the paper setting is changed in the printer 1, the cover 3 is first opened, the roll paper 12 is removed from the roll paper compartment 11, and the cover 3 is then closed. A paper settings update command from the host device 32 is received and executed when no roll paper is loaded. After the command is executed, the cover 3 is opened, new roll paper 12 is loaded, and the cover 3 is closed. The printer 1 then indexes the newly loaded paper for printing, and executes a paper identification process to determine if the newly loaded paper matches the content of the current paper settings.
US08646991B2 Connector component
A connector component is provided as one compatible with conductor coupling and fiber coupling. A receptacle 1 is a connector component to be coupled to a USB connector 3 incorporating a plurality of conductor wires, and a ferrule 4 holding distal ends of optical fibers, and is provided with connections 18 to be connected to the plurality of conductor wires, a light emitting device 23 to emit light toward the ferrule 4, and a light receiving device 24 to receive light emitted from the ferrule 4.
US08646977B2 Sliding element and method for the production thereof
A sliding element comprises a metallic support layer, a metallic porous carrier layer applied thereon, and a sliding layer which has a thickness D applied on the carrier layer. The sliding layer comprises a first material containing a thermoplastic matrix and a second material containing PTFE. The second material is impregnated in the first material, which form a gradient over a depth T, where T≦D in a surface area of the sliding layer.
US08646968B2 Method for performing optical distributed temperature sensing (DTS) measurements in hydrogen environments
A method for calculating a temperature along a length of a sensing fiber of a distributed thermal sensing (DTS) system. The sensing fiber, which has two ends, is heat resistant for operation up to 300° C. The DTS system includes a two-channel DTS interrogator that is attached to each of the two ends of the sensing fiber. The DTS interrogator interrogates the sensing fiber from both ends, calculates a temperature difference between co-located positions along the length of the sensing fiber for each end, and determines an error associated with the temperature difference. Based on the determined error, a corrected temperature value along the length of the sensing fiber is calculated and outputted.
US08646965B2 Concrete mixing drum fin structure
A mixing fin assembly adapted to mix and guide materials in a rotatable mixing drum of a type used in a transit concrete mixing vehicle includes a spiral mixing fin designed to extend transversely into the drum constructed of a lightweight, moldable polymeric material which is flexible and resistant to abrasion, the mixing fin includes a plurality of conjoined sections that are fit together, preferably utilizing fin locking tabs and mating fin locking sockets. A preferred way of mounting the mixing fin into mixing drums uses a spiral fin mount rail track adapted to be fixed to the interior surface of the mixing drum. A locking tab locks the upper part of the rail track into the fin structure.
US08646964B1 Method and apparatus for producing asphalt mix product comprised of recycled asphalt product and virgin material
Asphalt mix product is produced for delivery at a desired temperature and is comprised of a mixture of recycled asphalt product and virgin material in a specified, selected proportion of recycled asphalt product to virgin material. Recycled asphalt product is heated in an indirectly heated recycled asphalt product heater to an elevated temperature. Virgin material is heated, either in the same recycled asphalt product heater or in a separate virgin material heater, to a maximum temperature not exceeding a prescribed temperature above which damage to that heater will occur. The heated recycled asphalt product is mixed with the heated virgin material in the selected proportion of recycled asphalt product to virgin material to prepare the asphalt mix product for delivery at the desired temperature. By virtue of heating the recycled asphalt product and mixing the heated recycled asphalt product with the heated virgin material, the selected proportion of recycled asphalt product to virgin material is not limited by the maximum temperature of the heated virgin material, and asphalt mix product is produced effectively and economically with proportions of recycled asphalt product to virgin material which are considerably higher than heretofore available.
US08646961B2 Reflective plate, planar lamp and planar lamp fixture including the same
A directional prism reflective plate includes a prism surface (11) and a smoothing plane (12). A plurality of prism bodies (111) are arranged on the prism surface (11). The prism bodies (111) are continuously arranged in continuous zigzag form, and symmetrically or asymmetrically arranged relative to the center plane. Respective cross-section triangles of the prism bodies (111) have same shape and area, the distances from the vertexes of the cross-section triangle to the smoothing plane (12) are gradually reduced, so as to reflect the sunlight entirely. It is also provide a planar lamp and a planar lamp fixture including the reflective plate.
US08646950B2 Display apparatus
A display apparatus includes a panel module and a backlight module. The backlight module is disposed under the panel module. The backlight module includes a frame, a light guide plate, and a reflector. The frame supports the edge of the light guide plate. The reflector is disposed at the bottom of the light guide plate. The edge of the reflector and the edge of the frame horizontally form an engaging seam without overlapping, and the engaging seam is substantially in a serrated shape.
US08646946B2 Kinetic flame device
An apparatus creating a flickering flame effect. The apparatus includes a housing with an interior space with first and second stages. A drive mechanism generates a time varying electromagnetic field extending into the first stage. A first pendulum member is pivotally mounted in the interior space of the first stage and includes first and second magnets on first and second ends, with the first end proximate to the drive mechanism such that the first magnet interacts with the varying electromagnetic field to cause movement of the pendulum member. The apparatus includes a second pendulum member pivotally mounted in the second stage with a magnet on a first end proximate to the second end of the first pendulum member. A flame silhouette element extends from the second pendulum member, and a light source transmits light onto the flame silhouette, which is moving due to the magnetic coupling of the pendulum members.
US08646945B2 Waterproof outdoor lighting fixture
A waterproof outdoor lighting fixture includes a lamp holder having a front lamp bulb socket for receiving a lamp bulb, an outer shell molded on the periphery of the lamp holder and having locating holes located on an inner wall of a lampshade portion thereof, a waterproof gasket tightly press-fitted into the lampshade portion of the outer shell, and an annular locating member fastened to the lampshade portion of the outer shell to lock the waterproof gasket.
US08646940B2 Light emitting device
Disclosed is a light emitting device. The light emitting device includes: a frame having an opening; at least one light emitting diode disposed on the frame; a reflector which reflects light irradiated from the light emitting diode and emits the light through the opening; and a reflective protrusion which is formed on an inner surface of the reflector and determines an orientation angle of the light emitted through the opening. Since a light source is disposed on the frame of the light emitting device according to the embodiment, it is possible to easily exchange the light source of the light emitting diode by removing and attaching the frame without disassembling the entire lighting device.
US08646935B2 Low voltage illumination grid assembly for retail display shelf system
A retail display shelf system has a gondola. There are a pair of conductive standards which are cooperatively configured for supporting conductive shelf support brackets. A circuit board has an array of light emitting diodes. The circuit board has, at each end, a connector. Each connector is adapted to connect electrically to its respective shelf support bracket, so that current travels from a low voltage power supply through the somewhat vertical standards through the shelf support brackets, through the circuit board, to power each of the LEDs, to illuminate local parts of the retail display shelf system. Various display elements reflect or transmit the light.
US08646934B2 Aquarium light strip
Various embodiments of the present invention provide a lighting system and apparatus that may be utilized with aquariums. The features and functionality of the lighting system and apparatus provide easy access to the opening of an aquarium for various purposes, such as cleaning and maintenance. In addition, the features and functionality of some embodiments provide a lighting system that does not require ballasts, light sockets, or a multitude of wiring, and includes a modular design. Further, for some embodiments, features of the present invention allow the lighting apparatus to illuminate the aquarium, while simultaneously limiting the evaporation of water from the aquarium.
US08646933B2 Flat lighting assembly apparatus and flat lighting module
The flat lighting assembly apparatus comprises: a ceiling member; a power supply controller disposed within the ceiling member; a connector coupled to the ceiling member and electrically connected to the power supply; and a flat lighting module coupled to the connector and comprising; a frame including a base, an extension portion extending from the base, a socket disposed on a rear surface of the base, and a guide disposed on the rear surface of the base and disposed around the socket; a light source disposed on a front surface of the base; and a diffusion plate disposed on the light source and coupled to the base, wherein the connector has a insertion groove electrically connected to the socket and comprises a coupling unit coupled to the guide.
US08646931B2 Backlight assembly and display device including the same
This invention relates to a backlight assembly having improved heat dissipation performance and a simplified structure and to a display device including the same. The backlight assembly includes a light source unit for generating light, a housing for accommodating the light source unit and having an aperture, a middle frame coupled to the housing and receiving the light source unit, and an LED fixing frame which is adjacent to the light source unit and is coupled to the housing and at least a part of which is exposed through the aperture.
US08646927B2 Scattered-photon extraction-based light fixtures
A scattered photon extraction light fixture includes an optic element having a first surface; a light source for emitting short wavelength radiation, the light source disposed opposite, perpendicular, or tangential to the first surface of the optic element; a wavelength-conversion material, disposed on the first surface of the optic element, for receiving and down converting at least some of the short wavelength radiation emitted by the light source and transferring a portion of the received and down converted radiation; and one or more reflectors positioned opposite the wavelength-conversion material. A scattered photon extraction light system includes a plurality of light emitting fixtures. One or more wavelength-conversion materials, in the embodiments of the present invention, are disposed remotely from the light source(s), and used to absorb radiation in one spectral region and emit radiation in another spectral region. Lighting efficiency is improved by capturing the short wavelength and down-converted radiation.
US08646921B2 Reflective marker being radio-opaque for MRI
Described is a device comprising a retro-reflective marker sphere comprising: a core ball comprising: a generally spherical body portion, a mounting base extending from one end of the body portion of the core ball, and a mounting recess having a recess opening in the mounting base and extending into the body portion of the core ball, and a retro-reflective covering on the core ball, the retro-reflective covering comprising an opening through which the mounting base of the core ball extends, wherein a flat lower surface of the mounting base is spaced proximally from a lower edge of the opening of the retro-reflective covering, and wherein the mounting recess includes an interior screw thread for engaging an exterior screw thread of a mounting post when the retro-reflective marker sphere is mounted on the mounting post.
US08646918B2 Projection system
A projection system having a set of projectors that cast images: (i) onto the concave surface of a hemispherical dome, as is usual in planetariums and (ii) onto the surface of a centrally located sphere. The images thus cast may be coordinated by a controlling computer program, so that changes in the content or orientation of the images on the sphere result in corresponding changes in the images on the dome and vice versa.
US08646901B2 Single pass inkjet printing method
A single pass inkjet printing method includes the steps of: a) providing a radiation curable inkjet ink set containing at least a first and a second radiation curable inkjet ink having a dynamic surface tension of no more than 30 mN/m measured by maximum bubble pressure tensiometry at a surface age of 50 ms and at 25° C.; b) jetting a first radiation curable inkjet ink on an ink-jet ink-receiver moving at a printing speed of at least 35 m/min.; c) at least partially curing the first inkjet ink on the ink receiver within the range of 40 to 500 ms after the first inkjet ink landed on the ink receiver; d) jetting a second radiation curable inkjet ink on the at least partially cured first inkjet ink; and e) at least partially curing the second inkjet ink within the range of 40 to 500 ms after the second inkjet ink landed on the first inkjet ink.
US08646896B2 Phase change magnetic ink comprising surfactant coated magnetic nanoparticles and process for preparing same
A phase change magnetic ink including a phase change ink carrier; an optional colorant; an optional dispersant; an optional synergist; an optional antioxidant; and a surfactant coated magnetic nanoparticle having a magnetic core and a shell disposed thereover.
US08646889B2 Cartridge and printing device
A liquid container is adapted to be used in a printing apparatus having a mounting section provided with a lever. The liquid container includes a front surface disposed on a front side in an insertion direction to the mounting section, a rear surface facing the front surface, and an upper surface intersecting with the front surface and the rear surface. The upper surface includes a concave section configured and arranged to allow a regulating section of the lever to be inserted in the concave section when the liquid container is used in the printing apparatus. The concave section serves as a handle.
US08646886B2 Ink cartridge and an imaging apparatus
An ink cartridge attachable to and detachable from an imaging apparatus, and including an ink accommodating unit; and a cartridge casing having an opening, whereby the ink accommodating unit includes: an ink accommodating body; and an ink supplying portion including a nozzle insertion path and connected to the ink accommodating body, whereby the ink supplying portion is held by the cartridge casing so that the ink supplying portion is rotatable between a position where the nozzle insertion path faces the opening and a position where the nozzle insertion path faces an inner wall surface of the cartridge casing, and when the ink cartridge is attached to the imaging apparatus the ink supplying portion is rotated to direct the nozzle insertion path toward the opening, and when the ink cartridge is detached the ink supplying portion is rotated to direct the nozzle insertion path toward the inner wall surface.
US08646884B2 Liquid supply apparatus and image recording apparatus
A liquid supply apparatus configured to supply a liquid, including: a liquid container to store the liquid; an installing section which is formed with an opening and to which the liquid container is installable; and an urging member which urges the liquid container installed to the installing section toward the opening, and the installing section comprises a guide section extending from the opening in an insertion direction of the liquid container from the opening, a stopper which protrudes from the guide section in a direction perpendicular to an removal direction of the liquid container from the installing section; the liquid container comprises an guide objective section guided by the guide section, and a protrusion formed on the guide objective section and which abuts against the stopper to move the liquid container in the direction perpendicular to the removal direction when the liquid container is moved in the removal direction.
US08646881B1 Interstitial material to enable robust electrical interconnect for high density piezoelectric arrays
An ink jet print head including a plurality of standoff layer supports in an interstitial region between adjacent piezoelectric elements, and method of formation. The plurality of standoff layer supports can be formed from the same layer(s) as the piezoelectric elements, or from a dielectric layer such as a polymer. The standoff layer supports increase an area to which a standoff layer can be attached, thereby forming a more secure attachment of a circuit layer such as a flex circuit or a printed circuit board to a jet stack subassembly.
US08646868B2 Inkjet recording apparatus and density adjustment method thereof
An adjustment drop number setting section 335 sets a number of adjustment drops with which a change in print density in an image occurs remarkably when an ink drop amount of one ink drop is changed for each kind of a print medium (print sheet) input from an operation panel 340 or sets uniformly regardless of the kind of print medium. When a density difference that requires adjustment is recognized visually between images by two neighboring ink heads on a density measurement chart printed by a chart printing execution section 333c, the ink drop amount of one drop in the set number of adjustment drops is adjusted by adjusting a drive voltage of the ink head of a head unit 110 according to an input from the operation panel 340.
US08646864B2 Wide format printer with input roller and movable media engagement output for simultaneously engaging media
A wide format printer that has a drive roller configured to engage and push media into a print zone and a movable media engagement assembly configured to engage one side of the media and pull the media while the drive roller remains engaged with the media wherein the print zone is more than 432 mm (17 inches) wide.
US08646854B2 Attachment part for a cabinet, in particular an electrical switchgear cabinet for an electrical service distribution panel and an electrical switchgear cabinet
An attachment part for a mechanical connection of a rear wall to a first and a second side wall, a base wall and a ceiling wall of a cabinet includes a plurality of resilient tongues each integrally formed on the attachment part and each having a latching lug, wherein the attachment part can be attached to an inside of the rear wall at each one of four corners of the rear wall at a right angle with the rear wall, and wherein the first and the second side wall, the base wall and the ceiling wall are each firmly latchable to the latching lugs.
US08646853B2 Train braking device
To provide a train braking device including a controller that controls a brake cylinder pressure acting on a brake cylinder based on a service brake command or an emergency brake command, the train braking device includes a supply valve for supplying compressed air to the brake cylinder and an exhaust valve for adjusting a pressure of the supplied compressed air. The controller includes an electromagnetic-valve drive circuit, which includes a first switch circuit that a first switch for slide control is connected in parallel to ends of a serially connected circuit of a first switch for emergency brake and a first switch for service brake control with its one end being connected to a circuit power supply and the other end being connected to the supply valve, and a second switch circuit that a second switch for slide control is connected in parallel to ends of a serially connected circuit of a second switch for emergency brake and a second switch for service brake control with its one end being connected to the first switch circuit and the other end being connected to the exhaust valve.
US08646850B2 Wheel rim with a brake rotor
A wheel rim with a brake rotor includes a wheel rim having two retaining walls respectively and annularly formed on two lateral sides thereof. An annular groove is annularly defined between the two retaining walls for adapting to retain a tire. The wheel rim has a plurality of support plates spacedly formed on one retaining wall and extending toward a center of the wheel rim to form a hub hole defined therein. The hub hole is axially located at the center of the wheel rim for adapting to assemble with a wheel hub. A brake rotor is concentrically connected with the wheel rim and mounted with the other retaining wall of the wheel rim for adapting to be clamped by a disc brake.
US08646846B2 Method and apparatus for creating a planar cavern
Methods and apparatuses for producing a planar cavern are provided. The planar cavern is formed by first creating a continuous bore that extends through a subsurface resource deposit. The continuous bore can be formed by connecting first and second bores at a point within the subsurface resource deposit. After the continuous bore has been formed, a sawing assembly is placed within the continuous bore. The sawing assembly is then moved, in a continuous or in a reciprocating fashion, within the continuous bore. As the sawing assembly is moved, it is maintained under tension, to create a planar cavern. By thus exposing a large area of the resource deposit, a relatively large amount of the resource deposit can be dissolved in a solvent introduced to the planar cavern per unit time. Saturated solution can then be pumped from the planar cavern, and the resource recovered from the saturated solution by evaporation.
US08646844B2 Seat width adjustment mechanism
A seat width adjustment mechanism includes a first adjustment element and a second adjustment element, and an actuator for adjusting the distance between the two adjustment elements. A guiding element is connected to each of the adjustment elements. A piece of material extends over and between the two adjustment elements and is held under tension so that the guiding elements slide under the material to change the amount of seat forming material by changing the distance between the two adjustment elements.
US08646839B2 Adjustment device for chairs
An adjustment device for chairs, comprising a main body (2), which can be engaged onto a supporting shank (3) of a chair; a prop element (6) mounted above the main body (2), which can be associated to a seat for a user; a backrest (10) mounted onto the main body (2), which can be associated to a back (11) for a user; and articulation means (14) for movably engaging the backrest (10) and the prop element (6) to the main body (2), the articulation means (14) comprise at least one lever (17) pivoting around the main body (2) in a first mounting site and having at least two lever portions (17a, 17b) hinged to the prop element (6) in a second mounting site and to the backrest (10) in a third mounting site, respectively, so as to obtain a given movement relation between the backrest (10) and the prop element (6).
US08646830B2 Vehicle and associated energy reservoir support
A vehicle, or a vehicle with electrical or hybrid propulsion, including: an energy reservoir support situated under a floor of the vehicle, the energy reservoir support being fixed between lateral side rails of the vehicle; and a mechanism absorbing a lateral impact, which is mounted in a space situated under the floor of the vehicle between the external bodywork of the vehicle and an energy reservoir.
US08646828B2 Sunshade assembly for a vehicle
A sunshade assembly wherein the sunshade is secured in a deployed position at a single location, and wherein when the sunshade is retracted, the field of view through the window is unobstructed by securing members or the like. More particularly, the sunshade assembly utilizes a recessed hook or hook retainer within a trim panel adjacent the window as an anchor point, while a handgrip secured to the window shade is configured to pivot into a position to permit a hook or hook retainer associated therewith to be inserted into the recessed anchor point.
US08646826B2 Utility vehicle driver's station
A driver interface module (14) is fitted inside a utility vehicle cab. The module is located alongside a driver's seat (12), attached thereto, and comprises a console (24) having plurality of driver interface devices disposed thereon. A display attachment bar (26) is mounted to the console, wherein at least one display device (28) is clamped to the display attachment bar.
US08646824B2 Automobile trim element including a holder for a portable electronic device
A trim element is provided. The trim element includes an upper surface extending between a front edge and a rear edge, a holder is arranged on the upper surface and a flap. The flap is rotatably movable around an axis (A) of rotation between a retracted position, in which the flap extends substantially parallel to the upper surface, and an upright position, in which the flap forms a non-zero angle with the upper surface. The flap includes a front edge and a rear edge. The axis of rotation (A) of the flap extends near the rear edge of the flap. The flap pivots towards the rear edge of the upper surface between its retracted position and its upright position. A motor vehicle dashboard is also provided.
US08646823B2 Cover features for vehicle-mounted devices
A cover assembly is provided for a vehicle-mounted device having an alignment feature on a face of the device. The cover assembly includes a rod portion, a securing arrangement coupled to the rod portion to secure the cover assembly to the device, and a cover portion coupled to the rod portion and configured to cover the alignment feature on the face of the device.
US08646817B2 Lost motion cam actuating device
A lost motion cam assembly for a vehicle lock. The assembly includes a lever, pivotally mounted to the housing and movable between locked and unlocked positions. A motor drives a gear mounted to a shaft in the housing. A cam is also rotatably mounted to the shaft, and includes a pair of opposing cam arms. When a cam arm engages a first interaction surface on the lever, the lever actuates. A second interaction surface on the lever stops the cam. The cam is operably connected to the gear by a lost motion connection that defines a range of free travel of the cam relative to the gear. Manually pivoting the lever while one of the pair of cam arms is in contact with the first interaction surface on the lever causes the cam to rotate within the range of free travel.
US08646808B2 Airbag with active vent
An inflatable airbag assembly can include an airbag cushion and a vent tube having an aperture. Portions of one or more straps can be attached to opposite sides of the vent tube, and a release mechanism can selectively retain the one or more straps. Upon deployment of the airbag cushion while the release mechanism retains the one or more straps, the one or more straps can urge the opposite sides of the vent tube toward each other to assist in closing the aperture of the vent tube.
US08646798B2 Drawn agricultural machine
A drawn agricultural machine comprising a carrier frame for carrying processing members, the carrier frame supportable on the ground, at least during transport, by means of a wheel set comprising at least a wheel, a coupling frame for coupling the agricultural machine 1 to the three-point suspension of a tractor, the coupling frame comprising two lower coupling points and an upper coupling point and the coupling frame being rotatable about a vertical axis of rotation relative to the carrier frame. The machine also comprises a drawing element for exerting a force on the coupling frame, wherein the coupling frame, the carrier frame and the drawing element are interconnected in such a manner that a downward force component is exerted on the lower coupling points when the drawing element exerts a force on the coupling frame.
US08646797B2 Rear suspension system for bicycles
A rear suspension system for bicycles, such as freeride, downhill and trail-style mountain bikes. The suspension system includes a rear suspension for coupling the rear wheel of the bicycle to the bicycle frame, a rear shock absorber disposed entirely in front of the seat tube of the frame and a linkage for operatively coupling the rear suspension to the rear shock absorber. The linkage intersects the longitudinal axis of the seat tube for transmitting rear suspension forces around the seat tube to the rear shock absorber. The seat tube is preferably continuous and is disposed so that the bicycle seat is adjustable over a full range of seat positions. Additionally, the seat tube and rear suspension system are configured so that the rear wheel and rear suspension will not contact the seat tube, seat, or bicycle rider even when the rear suspension system is in a fully compressed, forward position.
US08646790B2 Sub-frame intrusion control by ramping during frontal impact for electric vehicle battery protection
A frame structure is adapted to absorb energy from frontal impacts and extends under a front portion of the body frame. The frame structure includes a rear sub-frame located below and in front of a pair of side frame under-members, and at least one ramp connected to the pair of side frame under-members for directing rearward sliding movement of the rear sub-frame and attached structures downwardly beneath a battery assembly. A catching surface engages a steering gear to improve energy absorption during frontal impacts. A reinforcement bracket attached to the pair of side frame under-members defines a pocket for temporarily catching the rear sub-frame providing an energy absorption path before releasing the rear sub-frame to slide past. A tether is connected between the pair of side frame under-members and the rear sub-frame for holding the rear sub-frame against the ramp to increase energy absorption.
US08646786B2 Low profile dolly
A dolly consists of a generally planar platform having opposed front and rear ends and lateral sides. The wheels are configured to contact a surface so as to support the platform above the surface when the platform is placed on the surface. The platform is relatively low to the ground, and enables one operator to arrange and transport heavy loads with the dolly.
US08646785B2 Mobile storage unit
A mobile storage unit is disclosed. The mobile storage unit includes a rigid exo-skeletal frame and a flexible storage bag that couples to the rigid exo-skeletal frame while within an open storage region framed by the exo-skeletal frame. The mobile storage unit also includes a top seat portion and stabilizing features that extend and retract from the rigid exo-skeletal frame to support the mobile storage unit in the upright position. The mobile storage unit can also include a monitoring device for transmitting signals that are used to determine the location of the mobile storage unit.
US08646782B2 Sealing arrangement and radial shaft seal made therefrom
A sealing arrangement, comprising a shaft (1) to be sealed, which is enclosed by a radial shaft seal (2), wherein the radial shaft seal (2) comprises two sealing lips (7, 8) for mutually sealing two spaces (5, 6) to be sealed and filled with a medium (3, 4) to be sealed, said sealing lips being disposed axially adjacent to each other at a distance from each other and delimiting a lubricant reservoir (18) with the shaft (1) to be sealed, wherein the first sealing lip (7) is axially curved in the direction of the first space (5) to be sealed in order to seal the first medium (3) to be sealed, and wherein the second sealing lip (8) is axially curved in the direction of the second space (6) to be sealed in order to seal the second medium (4) to be sealed, wherein both sealing lips (7, 8) each have at least one sealing rib (9, 10), which are delimited by mutually intersecting conical surfaces (11, 12; 13, 14), wherein on both sealing ribs (9, 10) the first conical surface (11, 13) facing the first space (5) to be sealed together with the surface (15) of the shaft (1) to be sealed encloses an angle (16, 17) that is larger than the second conical surface (12, 14) facing the second space (6) to be sealed.
US08646778B2 Three-dimensional puzzle
A method, computer program product, and computing device comprising a game for testing the spatial reasoning of a player. The game includes a virtual multi-surfaced object having at least a first surface and a second surface, with first indicia associated with the first surface and second indicia associated with the second surface. A facing surface and a goal surface are displayed on a user interface, which also includes mechanisms for changing the orientation of the virtual object by rotating the object in steps. In response to input from the game player, the virtual object is rotated. Each time the virtual object is rotated, the facing surface displayed is changed so that it correlates to the changed orientation of the virtual object. The game continues until the game player causes the facing surface to match the goal surface by entering a series of rotational moves.
US08646777B2 Mechanical drawing machine and game apparatus including the same
It is an object to prevent the occurrence of a situation that a drawing rolling object never enters into a drawing pocket. The mechanical drawing machine which, by rolling a drawing rolling object on a rolling surface, performs a drawing depending on which of a plurality of drawing pockets opened on the rolling surface the drawing rolling object enters into, includes a rolling surface moving unit for moving the rolling surface, and a speed control unit which changes a moving speed the rolling surface while a drawing rolling object is rolling on the rolling surface.
US08646775B2 Sheet detecting apparatus and image forming apparatus
A sheet detecting apparatus includes a turning portion, a sensor outputting a detection signal in response to turning of the turning portion to the detecting position, a first sliding contact portion sliding in contact with the protruded portion so as to move relatively to the protruded portion in an axial direction of the turning portion when the turning portion returns from the detecting position to the home position, and a second sliding contact portion sliding in contact with the protruded portion so as to move relatively to the protruded portion in the axial direction of the turning portion when the turning portion turns from the home position to the detecting position.
US08646765B2 End clamp and method of use there for
A clamping mechanism is described which includes an end clamp which may include a face plate, a pair of opposing first jaws operably attached to the face plate selectively positionable toward and away from one another, each of the pair of first jaws having a first jaw inner clamp member and a first jaw outer clamp member forming a nest there between, and a pair of opposing second jaws operably attached to the face plate selectively positionable toward and away from one another, each of the pair of second jaws having a second jaw inner clamp member and a second jaw outer clamp member forming a nest there between.
US08646761B2 External shear-hub isolator
An elastomeric isolator has an elastomeric body which incorporates an inner structural member and an outer structural member. The elastomeric body includes a shear hub extending between radial flanges defined by the inner and outer structural members that undergo shearing stresses during deflection of the elastomeric isolator. The inner and outer structural members are designed to provide a travel stop for the elastomeric isolator in order to avoid compression of the shear hub during high loads. The elastomeric bushing can also include an optional integral elastomeric heat shield which protects the shear hub.
US08646760B2 Chassis mounting system
An assembly includes a chassis coupled to a mounting surface via a mounting system. The mounting system includes a bolt, a dashpot, and a spring. The dashpot and the spring are configured to reduce vibration forces transferred from the mounting surface to the chassis. Techniques for forming the assembly are also described.
US08646752B2 Ball valve having multiple moveable seats
Embodiments and methods are disclosed herein that relate to a valve assembly. The valve assembly includes a housing having a passage formed therethrough, and a valve ball having a through hole and disposed in the housing, in which the valve ball is rotatable between an open position that has the through hole aligned with the passage and a closed position that has the through hole misaligned with the passage. The valve assembly further includes a first seat having a first sealing surface and disposed in the housing adjacent to the valve ball, and a second seat having a second sealing surface and disposed in the housing adjacent to the first seat such that the first sealing surface of the first seat is disposed adjacent to the second sealing surface of the second seat. At least one of the first sealing surface of the first seat and the second sealing surface of the second seat comprises an arcuate surface.
US08646747B1 Methods, devices, and mediums associated with optical lift mechanism
An apparatus includes a light foil device configured to move based on radiation pressure associated with light received by the light foil device. The apparatus includes a mechanism configured to transition between operational states in response to the movement of the light foil device, or includes a valve configured to control a flow of material through a conduit based, at least in part, on the movement of the light foil device.
US08646746B2 Concrete form brace having article securing mechanism
A brace for concrete forms employing first and second form elements includes at least one attachment member adapted and constructed to secure the brace to at least one of the form elements. A span member is connected to the at least one attachment member, and has a length sufficient to hold the first and second form elements apart. At least one article securing mechanism secures the article associated with the concrete form to the brace.
US08646745B2 Mold, solidified body, and methods of manufacture thereof
A mold includes: a base; and a contact surface which is provided on the base and which comes into contact with a molten material. The contact surface is provided with a first surface portion that includes a first fiber layer in which first carbon fibers are raised, and a second surface portion having different surface characteristics from the first surface portion.
US08646742B2 Seat rail device
A seat rail device provided with an upper rail 1 engaged with and mounted onto a lower rail 2 such that an upper bottom wall section 11 is located above a lower bottom wall section 21 and also such that an upper sloped wall section 16 is located within a lower groove 26 surrounded by a lower wall section 23, a lower top plate section 25, and a lower downwardly extending section 27; a roller 31 provided and rollably supported between the lower bottom wall section 21 and the upper bottom wall section 11; an upper ball-shaped rolling body 33 provided and rollably supported in an upper in-groove space 26a partitioned and defined in the lower groove 26 by the upper sloped wall section 16; and a lower ball-shaped rolling body 35 provided and rollably supported in a lower in-groove space 26b.
US08646740B1 Silicone coaster
A silicone coaster has an opening into which a base of a wine glass or other stemware can be slid into a sleeve or pocket of the coaster. This sleeve holds the coaster to the glass. When the glass is lifted, the silicone coaster also lifts with the glass. The coaster can be made using solid and liquid silicone. Liquid silicone can be vulcanized onto a solid silicone layer. The liquid silicone layers can be placed on the solid silicone in any desired design, including text, and in multiple vibrant colors.