Document Document Title
US07646389B1 Divergent and non-divergent texture fetches
Methods and systems for texture mapping in a computer-implemented graphics pipeline are described. A sample group is identified as including a divergent pixel. A determination is made whether an operand of an instruction executing on the divergent pixel satisfies a condition. A scheme for determining a level of detail for the texture mapping is selected depending on whether or not the condition is satisfied.
US07646388B2 Systems and methods for reducing redundant checks on graphics memory
A method and system for controlling the algorithmic elements in 3D graphics systems via an improved 3D graphics API is provided. In one aspect, in a 3D graphics system having privatized formats with privatized drivers used to increase the efficiency of display, existing problems are eliminated that are associated with multiple redundant copies of the publicly formatted graphics data made in host system memory pursuant to various graphics operations e.g., lock and unlock operations. The ability to make a system copy of publicly formatted data is exposed to the developer, eliminating the creation of unnecessary, and redundant copies. Efficient switching between the privatized and public format remains hidden from the developers so that applications execute efficiently while removing consideration thereof from the developers. Thus, developers are free to consider other tasks. In the event that a developer wishes to make a copy of the data, the data is copied pursuant to an operation that the developer calls and over which the developer has control, ensuring that multiple redundant copies of the graphics data are not made in host system memory.
US07646386B2 Modifying a path in a drawing
A technique for editing is disclosed. The technique includes generating a path definition for a path, generating a plurality of subpath definitions of subpaths of the path based on an intersection of the path, associating the subpath definitions with the path definition, modifying the intersection of the path using an editing tool, and generating a plurality of modified subpath definitions of subpaths of the path based on the modified intersection of the path.
US07646380B2 Correction of alignment and linearity errors in a stylus input system
A method and system for correcting alignment and linearity errors in devices using a finger or stylus input device with a display device interactively coupled to a digitizer is disclosed. Touching intersections in a calibration grid on the display device may be performed to create a linearity map. Subsequently, detected stylus input is mapped to a sector in the linearity map, and resultant screen coordinates are calculated using ratios within a reference rectangle corresponding to the detected stylus input and the mapped sector.
US07646369B2 Method of driving liquid crystal display device, liquid crystal display device,and electronic apparatus
A method of driving a liquid crystal display device includes a plurality of scanning lines, a plurality of data lines arranged to intersect the plurality of scanning lines, a plurality of pixel electrodes arranged in correspondence with the intersections between the plurality of scanning lines and the plurality of data lines, a plurality of pixel switching elements for supplying the signals of the data lines to the pixel electrodes based on the signals of the scanning lines, and an opposed electrode facing the pixel electrodes. The plurality of scanning lines are supplied with respective timings to apply any one of a selection potential and a non-selection potential to the pixel switching elements, the opposed electrode is inversion-driven between a first potential and a second potential, and at least one of the plurality of scanning lines has the selection potential at a common inversion timing when the opposed electrode is inverted from the first potential to the second potential.
US07646367B2 Semiconductor device, display device and electronic apparatus
When a resistance load inverter is used to control lighting/non-lighting of a pixel, in accordance with characteristic variations of a transistor forming the resistance load inverter, variations occur in light emission of each pixel. As an inverter in a pixel, an N channel transistor and a P channel transistor are used to apply a CMOS inverter. Even when characteristics of the transistor forming the CMOS inverter vary and inverter transfer characteristics vary, there is little effect on controlling lighting/non-lighting of the pixel, therefore, light emission variations of each pixel can be eliminated. Further, a signal potential of a scan line is used as one power source of a potential of the inverter, therefore, an aperture ratio of the pixel can be increased.
US07646365B2 Method and apparatus for driving electro-luminescence display device with multiple scan drive currents
A method and apparatus for driving an electro-luminescence display device capable of preventing a defect of signal lines caused by a relatively high scan voltage and current is disclosed. In the apparatus, a display panel has a scan line, a data line intersecting the scan line and supplied with a data, and a light-emitting device positioned at the intersection between the scan line and the data line. A data driver supplies a data to the data line. A scan driver applies a scanning pulse having a different current component to the scan line during a desired period.
US07646363B2 Display device and electronic equipment
A display device is disclosed. The display device includes: a pixel array part; and a drive part that drives the pixel array part. The pixel array part includes row-wise first scan lines and second scan lines, column-wise signal lines, pixels arranged in a matrix form on parts where the lines intersect, and power supply lines and ground lines that supply power to the respective pixels. The drive part includes a first scanner that sequentially supplies first control signals to the respective first scan lines and line-sequentially scans the pixels in units of rows, a second scanner that sequentially supplies second control signals to the respective second scan lines according to the line-sequential scan, and a signal selector that supplies video signals to the column-wise signal lines according to the line-sequential scan.
US07646361B2 Plasma display apparatus and driving method thereof
The present invention relates to a plasma display apparatus and driving method thereof. The plasma display apparatus according to the present invention comprises a Plasma Display Panel (PDP) including scan electrodes and sustain electrodes, a driver that supplies a pre-reset waveform to the scan electrodes or the sustain electrodes prior to a reset period of one or more sub-fields, and a controller that controls a period between a last sustain pulse, which is supplied to the scan electrodes or the sustain electrodes during a sustain period of a (n−1)th sub-field (where n is a positive integer), and an initialization signal, which is applied to the scan electrodes during a reset period of an nth sub-field, depending on a temperature of the PDP or an ambient temperature of the PDP.
US07646359B2 Flat display unit and method for converting color signal in the unit
There is disclosed a flat display unit which can obtain color signals adapted to a pixel arrangement. The unit has a gate drive circuit and a source drive circuit. Among R, G, B input video signals, a G signal is regarded as a color signal of a reference, R and B signals are regarded as second and third color signals, a plurality of samples of the R signal are multiplied by coefficients and synthesized to generate a first interpolation color signal R′, a plurality of samples of the B signal are multiplied by coefficients and synthesized to generate a second interpolation color signal B′. The R′, B′ and G signal are successively selected and supplied to the source drive circuit.
US07646358B2 Image display device
In an image display device which has an image display panel, in which two or more groups of particles or liquid powders having different colors and different charge characteristics are sealed between opposed two substrates, at least one of two substrates being transparent, and, in which the particles or the liquid powders, to which an electrostatic field produced by a pair of electrodes provided on one substrate or both substrates respectively is applied, are made to move so as to display an image, a chip for transmitting a drive signal to the image display panel is arranged in the substrate (first aspect of the invention), or, the two substrates are constructed by a transparent substrate and the pair of electrodes are constructed by a transparent electrode (second aspect of the invention).
US07646356B2 Double spiral antenna
An antenna comprises a first antenna element, which has a first helix, and a second antenna element, which has a second helix. The first and the second antenna elements each have a feed point at an outer end of the corresponding helix and an open end at an inner end of the corresponding helix. A symmetrical helix antenna according to the invention can be integrated in a comparatively simple manner in an existing system, for example in a hearing aid. By integrating the antenna in a plastic housing, the antenna cannot be seen at all from the outside. The antenna is comparatively small in relation to conventional antennas.
US07646348B2 Grounded self-complementary antenna for electronic device
A metal complementary element of a grounded self-complementary antenna for an electronic device and a metal grounding element of the electronic device contact with each other, are electrically connected to each other or are a same article so as to substantially enlarge an area of a grounding end of the self-complementary antenna to enable the self-complementary antenna to have the good radiation efficiency and the broader bandwidth such that the radio signal transmission effect of the electronic device can be elevated.
US07646346B2 Antenna for a pen-shaped mobile phone
The present invention relates to an antenna arrangement for a thin elongated portable communication device as well as to a thin elongated portable communication device comprising such an antenna arrangement. The antenna arrangement includes a first radiating antenna element dimensioned for operation at a first frequency and provided in the form of a first strip encircling most of a circuit board that comprises a ground plane. The antenna arrangement that is small sized, can be provided inside the thin elongated portable communication device and still has good antenna properties.
US07646342B2 Antenna
An antenna comprises a first transmission element, a second transmission element, a conductive element, a ground element, a ground line and a signal line. The conductive element is connected to the ground element. The first transmission element is connected to the conductive element. The first transmission element comprises a first spiral structure and a first axis. The second transmission element is connected to the conductive element. The ground line is electrically connected to the ground element. The signal line is electrically connected to the conductive element at a feed point.
US07646341B1 Ultra-wideband (UWB) antenna
The present invention relates to an ultra-wideband (UWB) antenna, which comprises: a rectangular aperture portion, formed from a ground plane of a printed circuit board and having an aperture; and a co-plane feeding structure, having a horizontal portion and a vertical portion, wherein the vertical portion is perpendicular to the horizontal portion, and the vertical portion is disposed in the aperture and connected with an external terminal. The ultra-wideband (UWB) antenna of the present invention can receive the wireless signal with 3.1˜10.6 GHz band, and have a very compact area (13 mm×23 mm) and is easy to be mass produced. Furthermore, a parasitism element can be added into the co-plane feeding structure, so as to reject the in-band interferences from the existing systems like 5˜6 GHz signals of wireless LAN.
US07646340B2 Method for processing array antenna signal
A method for processing an array antenna signal is disclosed, comprising steps of: a. determining the number of antenna units participating the processing of the array antenna signals and selecting antenna units to participate the array antenna signal processing from all the antenna units in the array antenna; b. performing signal estimation processing on received signals by all the antenna units selected in step a and obtaining a user feature parameter estimation; c. performing estimation of weight coefficients for all the antenna units of the array antenna based on the user feature parameter estimation obtained in step b; and d. receiving and/or transmitting the array antenna signals based on the weight coefficients estimated in step c. The method of the present invention can effectively reduce a computation amount of the array antenna signal processing and improve a reliability of a received signal.
US07646338B2 Method of optimization of processing of location data in the presence of a plurality of satellite positioning constellations
The present invention concerns a method of optimization of processing of signals from satellite positioning systems in the case where at least two satellite systems cohabit and are utilized to obtain the position of a receiver.One of the systems is given preference on the basis of a criterion of performance and the satellites of the other systems are eliminated that are situated at an azimuth/elevation angle difference less than a threshold relative to the satellites of the preferred system.
US07646334B1 Radar signal processing system and method for analyzing downhole oil and gas well environments
A radar signal processing system utilizing a specialized neural network generative topographic mapping method which employs an alternative method for characterizing multiple radar signatures wherein specialized phased-codes and wavelet waveform modulations are used. The invention comprises three layers each including a plurality of nodes: input layer, mapping layer, and output presentation layer. The input layer takes the collected signals and congregates them into groups of linear data points. The mapping layer provides a method for projecting the data into points of lower dimensions. The data is assumed to arise by first probabilistically picking a point in a low-dimensional space, mapping the point to be observed in high-dimensional input space, then adding noise. The result is a system in which radar data with multiple reflections in close proximity is manipulated into multiple signatures in systematic ways for use in downhole structure signatures.
US07646333B2 Pseudo-random pulse interval generation in navigation-aiding devices
An electronic circuit comprises a randomizing bit generator configured to generate a randomizing bit sequence based on a sequence selection input signal. The randomizing bit generator includes a counter operable to provide an individual starting count for the randomizing bit sequence and a parity generator responsive to an output of the counter. The circuit further comprises a pseudo-random number generator responsive to the randomizing bit generator. The pseudo-random number generator is operable to provide at least one pulsed signal based at least in part on the random bit sequence. The electronic circuit is operable to substantially eliminate interference in a series of pulsed signal transmissions comprising the at least one pulsed signal from each of two or more navigation devices, where each of the pulsed signals from each of the navigation devices is separated by an automatically adjustable time interval.
US07646331B2 Radar detector and collision avoidance system interface
An interface system of the present invention interconnects with a collision avoidance system and a radar detector. The interface system monitors and determines when sensors, from the collision avoidance system, are not required and selectively turns them off, thereby eliminating interference from the sensor and allowing the radar detector to work properly. The interface system also acts as a filter which enables and disables the audible and visual alerts of the radar detector and selects when to turn these filters on and off.
US07646328B2 Versatile constant altitude plan position indicator for radars
A method and a system to process radar volume scan data along an azimuth angle of a radar, to interpolate the radar volume scan data taken from adjacent elevation angles along the azimuth angle of the radar to obtain radar data corresponding to a predetermined altitude along the azimuth angle, and to display the radar volume scan data obtained corresponding to the predetermined altitude on a PPI display.
US07646323B2 Clock generator
The present invention relates to controlling the timing of a clock signal in high speed circuits, such as an analogue-digital converter (ADC). In some high speed data transfer techniques, the incoming data is latched using a clock signal. Often, the delay between the incoming data being clocked into the circuit and being ready to use (referred to as the “clock-to-Q period”) is large enough to cause problems. In particular, the clock-to-Q period may be sufficient to result in the original clock signal being inappropriate to clock the latched signal. The present invention provides a data capture circuit with matched latch to address this issue, particularly a first latch having an input for receiving a data input signal; a first sense amplifier having an input coupled to an output of the first latch; a second latch having an input coupled to the output of the first sense amplifier and an output providing a first data output; and a clock generator, the clock generator comprising: a third latch having an input for receiving a first clock signal; a second sense amplifier having an input coupled to an output of said third latch; and a fourth latch having an input coupled to an output of said second sense amplifier and an output providing a first adjusted clock signal, wherein said first and third latches are substantially the same, the first and second sense amplifier are substantially the same and the second and fourth latches are substantially the same.
US07646319B2 Method and apparatus for signal processing and encoding and decoding method, and apparatus therefor
An apparatus for processing a signal and method thereof are disclosed. Data coding and entropy coding are performed with interconnection, and grouping is used to enhance coding efficiency. The present invention includes the steps of obtaining data corresponding to a plurality of data coding schemes and deciding an entropy table for at least one of a pilot reference value and a pilot difference value included in the data using an entropy table identifier unique to the data coding scheme and entropy-decoding at least one of the pilot reference value and the pilot difference value using the entropy table.
US07646316B2 Compound portable computing device with dual portion keyboards coupled over a transmission link
A compound portable computing device comprising two or more separate portable devices coupled over a wireless link is described. A first portable computing device contains a keypad with keys dedicated to use with a function of the devices. A circuit of the first portable computing device reconfigures the first keypad to operate as a first portion of a standard QWERTY keyboard or other type of keyboard for text entry. A second keyboard portion comprising keys permanently configured to provide complementary keys to the first keyboard portion is separably linked to the first portable computing device, so that the first and second keyboard portions function as a full QWERTY keyboard.
US07646312B2 Method and system for automated detection of mobile telephone usage by drivers of vehicles
A method and apparatus for automated detection of mobile telephone usage by drivers of vehicles is provided. The apparatus may include a detection system comprising at least one mobile phone signal receiving device, at least one image capturing device, and at least one computer. The mobile phone signal receiving device is operative to detect a mobile phone signal transmitted from a vehicle. The at least one image capturing device is operative to capture at least one image of the vehicle. The at least one computer is operative to store in a storage device, information associated with at least one of the mobile phone signal transmitted from the vehicle; and the at least one image of the vehicle. The information stored in the storage device may be used to determine if a person associated with the vehicle should be prosecuted for illegal use of a mobile phone while driving the vehicle.
US07646311B2 Image processing for a traffic control system
Embodiments of the invention include methods and apparatuses relation to traffic control systems. In one embodiment, a traffic condition is identified by capturing a traffic image, masking the traffic image to obtain an image portion including a traffic image object, and generating the traffic condition based on the traffic image object and the traffic image portion.
US07646308B2 System for monitoring electrical equipment and providing predictive diagnostics therefor
A system monitors electrical equipment and provides predictive diagnostics therefor. The system includes sensors located at or about the electrical equipment. The sensors sense information pertaining to operation of the electrical equipment. A first processor is located at or about the electrical equipment and receives the sensed information from the sensors as first information. A first transceiver cooperates with the first processor to transmit the first information as transmitted information. A second processor is located remote from the electrical equipment. A second transceiver cooperates with the first transceiver to receive the transmitted information as second information and communicate the same to the second processor. The second processor provides a notification pertaining to an immediate inspection and/or maintenance of the electrical equipment, and set points operatively associated with the sensed information. The set points pertain to a number of potential alarms regarding operation of the electrical equipment.
US07646306B2 Arrangement introduced in a hidden receiver-sender delimiter for pneumatics and similars
ARRANGEMENT INTRODUCED IN A HIDDEN RECEIVER-SENDER DELIMITER FOR PNEUMATICS AND SIMILARS, especially a constructive arrangement allowing the use of a transponder (device to send and receive radio frequency signals) in aggressive means, be them chemical, mechanical or others, with no losses which may cause damage to said transponder; the conventional transponder (T) for emission and reception of radio frequency signals (RF) composed by a chip (1) and a coil reel (2); the transponder (T), with its new features, may be used, with no prejudice to its features, in aggressive chemical or mechanical means; the transponder (T) receives two protections: the first one by covering the transponder set (T) with a plastic film (F); the second protection is the introduction of said transponder (T), already with the first protection, inside a capsule (3) with special features, made of transparent material to electromagnetic waves and appropriate to resist against different mechanical efforts, be them twisting, flexion, traction or even mechanical vibrations, being the employed material preferably a plastic provided not only with transparence to electromagnetic waves, but also relative flexibility.
US07646305B2 Capacitor strap
A capacitor strap that is applied to a security tag coil or antenna to form and properly tune an EAS or an RFID security tag. The capacitor strap is a thin film capacitor formed of two metal foils in between which is a dielectric material having ends that are electrically coupled to different points of a security tag coil or antenna. The capacitor strap may include an RFID integrated circuit, either in series or in parallel with the capacitor, which is then applied to security tag coil at a particular location to tune the tag to a predetermined frequency.
US07646299B2 Anti-tampering security material
Security material such as cloth, either normal strength or armored, or fragile webbing into which electronic micro-devices are woven to detect and react to tampering of the monitored article at the scene or via a network. Also disclosed are the use of fuses connected in the cloth or webbing to further monitoring tampering and multi-layered cloth for use as circuit boards and sensors. Facilitates the monitoring of high value articles and facilities and automatically records or responds to tampering attempts to increase the level of security for personal and organizational uses.
US07646288B2 Occupant warning system for school or day care bus and van
The present invention is a warning system for alerting a driver and others to ensure an examination is made of a school or day care bus or van is thoroughly examined for remaining occupants following a transportation run.
US07646281B2 Snap-together choke and transformer assembly for an electric arc welder
An apparatus for an electric arc welder comprising a first electromagnetic device including a first core assembly, wherein the first core assembly has a first stack of laminations which are press-fitted or snapped together into interlocking engagement with a complementary second stack of laminations so as to form two flux paths through the first core assembly, each of which passes through a center portion of the first core assembly; a second electromagnetic device, such as a transformer, including a second core assembly, wherein the second core assembly has a first stack of laminations which are press-fitted or snapped together into interlocking engagement with a complementary second stack of laminations so as to form two flux paths through the second core assembly, each of which passes through a center portion of the second core assembly; and wherein the two core assemblies of the electromagnetic devices are press-fitted or snapped together into interlocking engagement with each other.
US07646275B2 Device and method for eliminating transformer excitation losses
The invention is a device and method for eliminating core excitation losses in a distribution transformer when the transformer is not supplying power to loads. The invention consists of sensors, a control circuit, a user interface and a power contactor. The power contactor is connected on the line side of a transformer and is opened or closed automatically based on preprogrammed time or load criteria determined by the control circuit. In one operational mode and when the transformer is disconnected from the line, the control board generates low power pulses at the transformer load connection points in order to “search” for loads. If a load is detected, the transformer is reconnected by way of contactor closure. If the transformer load drops to zero, for a predetermined amount of time, the transformer is again disconnected and the pulsed load search is reestablished.
US07646273B2 Solenoid actuator
A solenoid actuator assembled from a minimum number of parts. The solenoid actuator includes a coil bobbin carrying an excitation coil, a core extending through the coil bobbin, and an armature having an actuator leg and an angled anchor leg. The core has a first pole end and a second pole end respectively at its opposite ends. A hinge support is provided to pivotally support the armature to the core, and is formed as an integral part of the coil bobbin and is disposed at one axial end of the core to place the anchor leg in close relation to the first pole end, and at the same time to place a portion of the actuator leg in close relation to the second pole end. The hinge support is configured to make the anchor leg in direct supporting contact with the first pole end.
US07646270B2 Electrical switching apparatus, and yoke assembly and spring assembly therefor
A spring assembly is provided for a yoke assembly of an electrical switching apparatus including a housing, separable contacts enclosed by the housing, and an operating mechanism structured to open and close the separable contacts. The operating mechanism includes a pole shaft. The yoke assembly is coupled to the pole shaft and is movable among first and second positions corresponding to the separable contacts being closed and open, respectively. The spring assembly includes a number of first springs having a first spring rate and being coupled to the yoke assembly, and a number of second springs having a second spring rate and being coupled to the yoke assembly. The second spring rate is different than the first spring rate. The number of first springs and the number of second springs bias the yoke assembly toward the second position.
US07646258B2 Digital FM transmitter with variable frequency complex digital IF
A system, method and apparatus are described for digitally synthesizing a signal for FM transmission. A complex variable frequency digital IF signal is generated for use by a digital modulator in transmission of a signal with an integrated circuit. In some examples, the integrated circuit includes various baseband processing blocks, an up-sampler, a summer, a numerically controlled oscillator (NCO) and a complex rotator, all arranged in cooperation with one another. The complex variable frequency digital IF signal can be used by a digital quadrature modulator for generation of the synthesized analog RF transmission signal, and optionally for use with an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) scheme.
US07646257B2 Method and apparatus to facilitate the provision and use of a plurality of varactors with a plurality of switches
A plurality of varactors are coupled via a first electrode to a shared terminal that in turn can operably couple to a source of control voltage. A second electrode for each varactor couples to a corresponding switch, where each switch couples to at least two different voltage levels. So configured, the second electrode of each varactor can be individually connected to either of two voltage levels. This can be leveraged to control, in coarse steps, the overall aggregate effective capacitance presented by these components. At least some of these varactors can have differing corresponding capacitances, the specific values of which can be selected in order to facilitate relatively equal spacing and substantially equal rates of reactance change versus the control voltage value between aggregate-capacitive reactance ranges as correspond to differing settings for the switches at various levels for the control voltage source.
US07646254B2 Radiation hard oscillator and differential circuit design
A radiation hard design for oscillator circuits and circuits having differential outputs is described. The design includes connecting or otherwise coupling outputs of these circuits to a passive polyphase filter. The passive polyphase filter provides four quadrature outputs that are free of glitches that may have occurred at the filter input.
US07646253B2 Frequency-locked clock generator
A frequency-locked clock generator includes a voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO), a frequency-to-current converter, a reference current source and a gain stage. The VCO generates an output signal. The frequency-to-current converter generates a converter current proportional to a frequency of the output signal. The reference current source generates a reference current. The gain stage generates a control signal based on a difference between the converter current and the reference current. The control signal is applied to the VCO to adjust the frequency of the output signal. Feedback forces the VCO to generate an output clock signal such that the corresponding current it produces (i.e., the converter current) is equal to the reference current. When in lock, the frequency of the output signal is determined by a time constant (or equivalent time constant) of the frequency-locked clock generator.
US07646252B2 Amplifier for use in radio-frequency band
A cascade-connected transistor includes a common-source transistor which receives an input signal, and a common-gate transistor which is connected to a drain terminal of the common-source transistor and outputs an output signal. A band-pass filter receives the output signal of the cascade-connected transistors. An adjustment circuit is interposed between the drain terminal and the gate terminal of the common-gate transistor, and adjusts the output impedance of the cascade-connected transistor.
US07646251B2 Radio frequency application circuit
A radio frequency (RF) application circuit is provided. In the RF application circuit, a pair of bipolar junction transistors (BJTs), instead of N-channel metal-oxide-semiconductor (NMOS) transistors, is composed of a switch-block operated in a reversion saturation region. The RF application circuit is used to serve as either an oscillator or a band pass amplifier according to the circuit characteristic of an active circuit. Thereby, not only the function of the conventional NMOS transistor served as a switch can be achieved by the switch-block, but also the element size, turned-on resistance value and turned-off parasitic capacitance value of the switch-block, and the power consumption of the RF application circuit thereof can be reduced. Thus, the resolution of the capacitance unit in a LC resonance circuit and the performance of the RF application circuit thereof can be promoted.
US07646247B2 Ahuja compensation circuit for operational amplifier
A frequency compensated operational amplifier includes: an input stage, for receiving an input signal; an output stage, coupled to the input stage, for generating an output signal according to an output of the input stage; a first current source, for providing a first bias current; a second current source, for providing a second bias current identical to the first bias current; an Ahuja compensation circuit, comprising: a matched transistor pair, coupled to the first current source and the second current source; a capacitor coupled between the matched transistor pair and the output stage; and a transconductance boosting circuit, coupled to the matched transistor pair, for boosting transconductance of the matched transistor pair.
US07646246B2 Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device includes a phase compensation circuit 6 using a MOS capacitor with a structure in which an insulating film is disposed between a gate electrode formed on a semiconductor substrate and a diffusion layer. The phase compensation circuit includes first and second MOS capacitors 14, 15. A gate electrode terminal of the first MOS capacitor is connected equivalently to a diffusion layer terminal of the second MOS capacitor that is a terminal opposite to the gate electrode terminal. A potential difference generating element 16 that generates a potential difference by allowing a current to flow therethrough is connected between a diffusion layer terminal of the first MOS capacitor and a gate electrode terminal of the second MOS capacitor. When the MOS capacitors having the voltage dependence are used, e.g., as a phase compensation circuit element of an operational amplifier, the MOS capacitance is not reduced, no matter the range of the input or output voltage of the operational amplifier, so that the phase margin will not reduced.
US07646245B2 Amplifier
An amplifier includes: a single-stage or multiple-stage variable gain amplifier that amplifies an input signal with a controlled gain; a AGC control circuit that detects the peak level of a signal outputted from the variable gain amplifier in the final stage, converts the resultant signal to a digital signal, and outputs an AGC control signal for controlling the gain of the variable gain amplifier based on the converted digital signal; an EVR control circuit that outputs an EVR control signal according to a signal of setting an attenuation value or an amplification value for EVR inputted from an electronic variable resistor control terminal; and a gain control circuit that controls the gain of the variable gain amplifier in accordance with at least one of the AGC control signal and the EVR control signal. The occurrence of “popping” sounds caused by differences in DC voltage due to switching between an AGC circuit and an electronic variable resistor circuit can be suppressed.
US07646241B2 Low-voltage operational amplifier and operational amplifying method
A low-voltage operational amplifier includes a differential amplifying stage, an output amplifying stage and a compensation stage. The differential amplifying stage amplifies a difference between a first signal and a second signal that constitute a differential pair using an input pair of NMOS transistors, and outputs an amplified first signal and an amplified second signal. The output amplifying stage amplifies a difference between the amplified first signal and the amplified second signal using an input pair of PMOS transistors, and outputs a first output signal and a second output signal that constitute a differential pair. The compensation stage receives the amplified first signal, the amplified second signal, the first output signal, and the second output signal, and reduces a settling time of the first output signal and the second output signal.
US07646239B2 Feed-forward amplifier
There is provided a feed-forward amplifier which enables a predistortion circuit to obtain sufficient distortion compensation effects even if ambient temperature or the like changes. The feed-forward amplifier includes a variable attenuator for controlling the amount of attenuation of a signal input to a main amplifier, a variable attenuator for controlling the amount of attenuation to prevent deterioration of distortion compensation due to a change in the ambient temperature of the main amplifier, a variable attenuator for controlling the amount of attenuation of a signal input to an auxiliary amplifier, and a variable attenuator for controlling the amount of attenuation to prevent deterioration of distortion compensation due to a change in the ambient temperature of the auxiliary amplifier, wherein a control circuit controls the variable attenuators to reduce the amount of attenuation according to the reduced gain of the main amplifier and the reduced gain of the auxiliary amplifier, and a control circuit controls the variable attenuators to optimize the amount of attenuation according to the ambient temperature of the main amplifier and the ambient temperature of the auxiliary amplifier.
US07646237B1 Configurable clock network for programmable logic device
In a programmable logic device having high-speed serial interface channels, a clock distribution network for providing one or more high-speed clocks to dynamic phase alignment circuitry of those high-speed serial interfaces includes at least one bus that is segmentable (e.g. using tristatable buffers). This allows the bus to be divided into different portions that can be connected to different clock sources when the high-speed serial interfaces are running at different speeds. In one embodiment, the segmenting elements (e.g., the aforementioned buffers) are located between selected channels (e.g., every fourth channel), limiting the size of the different segments. In another embodiment, segmenting elements are located between each channel, allowing complete user freedom in selecting the sizes of the segments. Thus, instead of providing a bus for every clock source, multiple clocks can be made available to different channels by segmenting a single bus.
US07646234B2 Integrated circuit and method of generating a bias signal for a data signal receiver
An integrated circuit and method of generating a bias signal for a data signal receiver is disclosed. One embodiment provides a replica circuit configured to generate a feedback signal, wherein the replica circuit is a replica of at least a part of a data signal receiver, and wherein the feedback signal depends on a reference signal of the data signal receiver. A compensation circuit is configured to compensate an influence of the reference signal on the feedback signal. An amplifier circuit is configured to generate a bias signal based on the feedback signal, the bias signal being provided to the data signal receiver.
US07646233B2 Level shifting circuit having junction field effect transistors
A level shifting circuit can include a first driver junction field effect transistor (JFET) having a source coupled to a reference supply node and a second driver JFET of a second conductivity type having a source coupled to a boosted supply node, and a first charge pump circuit. The first charge pump circuit can be coupled between the first driver control node and an input node coupled to receive an input signal, and can couple a first terminal of a first capacitor between a reference supply node and a power supply node in response to an input signal. The power supply node can be coupled to receive a power supply potential, the reference supply node can be coupled to receive a reference potential, and the boosted power supply node can be coupled to receive a boosted potential. The reference potential can be between the power supply potential and the boosted potential.
US07646225B2 Mains phase detection apparatus
The present invention relates to an apparatus for accurately detecting a mains phase. The apparatus is constructed with a zero-crossing detector, a digital phase detector, a digital loop filter, and a digital controlled oscillator (DCO) of a direct digital synthesized (DDS) manner. The present apparatus employs an all-digital loop architecture and a high sampling clock to recover a signal with a phase orthogonal with the mains signal and a frequency the same as the mains signal. And jitters in the recovered signal are less than 10 us. The present apparatus is capable of implementing signal tracking of a zero frequency error and a zero phase in a wide range, and can provide a detection result of excellent performance for the power line carrier communication, mains frequency detection, etc.
US07646223B2 Phase locked loop circuit having set initial locking level and control method thereof
A phase locked loop circuit and a control method thereof. A phase locked loop circuit includes a phase detecting and correcting block configured to detect a phase difference between a reference clock and a feedback clock, and to correct the phase of the feedback clock such that the phase of the reference clock and the phase of the feedback clock are consistent with each other, and an initial locking level setting block configured to set a locking level in a normal operation mode in the phase detecting and correcting block. The initial locking level setting block includes a digital-to-analog converting unit configured to generate an analog voltage according to a digital code corresponding to the set frequency, and charges the capacitive element with the analog voltage, and a switching unit configured to connect the digital-to-analog converting unit and the capacitive element in response to an input of an operation start signal.
US07646215B2 Efficient method for implementing programmable impedance output drivers and programmable input on die termination on a bi-directional data bus
A combined input and termination circuit comprises a fixed portion of impedance and a programmable portion of impedance. The fixed portion is able to be fixed in a driver mode and a termination mode. The programmable portion is able to be configured to have a desired impedance in a driver mode or a termination mode while maintaining minimum associated capacitance.
US07646213B2 On-die system and method for controlling termination impedance of memory device data bus terminals
A system for controlling the termination impedance of memory device data bus terminals is fabricated on the same die as the memory device. The system includes a termination resistor connected to each data bus terminal, which is connected in parallel with several transistors that are selectively turned on to adjust the termination impedance. The transistors are controlled by a circuit that determines the resistance of the termination resistor and turns on the correct number of transistor to properly set the termination impedance. In one example, the resistance of the termination resistor is determined by directly measuring a resistor of the same type as the termination resistor. In another example, the resistance of the termination resistor is determined indirectly by measuring parameters that affect the resistance of the termination resistor. In either case, the system can maintain the termination impedance of the data bus terminals constant despite changes in the termination resistor.
US07646208B2 On-chip detection of power supply vulnerabilities
On-chip sensor to detect power supply vulnerabilities. The on-chip sensor employs a sensitive delay chain and an insensitive delay chain to detect power supply undershoots and overshoots without requiring external off-chip components. Undershoots and overshoots outside a user-defined threshold are detected. The undershoots and overshoots are indicated by a relative difference in phase of the two delay chains. The two delay chains are programmable to detect various frequencies.
US07646202B2 Static measuring method of electrical references of three-phase permanent magnet synchronous motor
A method for measuring a resistance and an inductance of a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) in a static state includes inputting a rated current of the PMSM and 150% of the rated current at a state of locking an axle of the PMSM, recording corresponding voltages V100% and V150%, and dividing the voltage difference with the current difference to obtain the resistance of the PMSM. The method continues dividing an electrical period into six voltage vectors, and performing four voltage cycles for every the voltage vector. The voltage cycle includes step of outputting a quarter of the voltage V150%, and outputting the voltage V150% after the current being stable. After one of the six voltage vectors being finished, the method switches to the other voltage vectors and repeats the voltage cycles, and the method is completed till all of the six voltage vectors being finished. Finally, the method continues to compare rising times of the voltage vectors and convert the rising times to inductances, and to define the maximum of the inductances as an inductance of a q axis and to define the minimum of the inductances as an inductance of a d axis.
US07646198B2 Methods for fat signal suppression in magnetic resonance imaging
The present invention is directed to methods for chemical species signal suppression in magnetic resonance imaging procedures, wherein Dixon techniques are enhanced by continuously sampling techniques. In the invention, k-space data is acquired during the entire period of read gradient associated with a gradient echo pulse acquisition scheme. The invention utilizes a total sampling time (TST) acquisition during the entire read gradient, using three echoes of a TST data set to achieve chemical species separation in both homogenous fields as well as areas of field inhomogeneity. As an example, a continuously sampled rectilinearly FLASH pulse sequence is modified such that the time between echoes was configured to be 2.2 milliseconds, with TE selected to allow 180° phase variation in the fat magnetization between each of the three TE's (TE1, TE2, and TE3). Data collected during the dephase and rephase gradient lobes are defined as a first Dixon acquisition, with data collected by the read gradient lobe being defined as a second Dixon acquisition. Two point Dixon reconstruction techniques are used to form images for each chemical species, such as for generating water and fat images of the scanned object region. Other corrections, such as off-resonance correction may be applied on the image data.
US07646197B2 Semiconductor integrated circuit device and power consumption control device
To perform execution scheduling of function blocks so as to control the total required power of the function blocks within a supplyable power budget value, and thereby realize stable operations at low power consumption. Function block identifiers are allotted to all the function blocks, and to a RAM area that a power consumption control device can read and write, a list to store identifiers and task priority, power mode value showing power states, and power mode time showing the holding time of power states can be linked. A single or plural link lists for controlling the schedules of tasks operating on the function blocks, a link list for controlling the function block in execution currently in high power mode, a link list for controlling the function block in stop currently in stop mode, and a link list for controlling the function block in execution currently in low power mode are allotted, and thereby the power source and the operation clock are controlled by the power consumption control device.
US07646195B2 Apparatus and method for sensing rotation of a wheel
An apparatus for sensing rotation of a wheel includes a sensor and a detector. The sensor is disposed in a wheel, and is operable to detect the earth magnetic field. The detector is operable to detect a change of a sensed earth magnetic field in order to sense rotation of the wheel based on the detected change.
US07646193B2 Device inspection device, device inspection system using the same, and mobile telephone holding device
A device inspection apparatus that is capable of judging the functions of operating control buttons on a cellular phone or like device automatically and easily. The device inspection apparatus comprises an adapter unit 2 on which a cellular phone 1 is mounted; a camera 4 for picking up the image of an LCD panel 3, which serves as a display section for the cellular phone 1; a plunger unit 7, which has a plurality of releases 6 for pressing a key button 5 on the cellular phone 1; a computer 8 for controlling the operation of the plunger unit 7 and exercising control; and a monitor 9 for displaying an LCD panel image and an image based on a signal from the computer 8. A still picture, motion picture, or audio output, which is acquired when a release 6 presses a key button 5, is compared against a predetermined expected image or sound to judge the functionality of the cellular phone 1.
US07646189B2 Power supply controller and method therefor
In one embodiment, a PWM controller uses the input power of a power system to regulate a duty cycle of a switching PWM signal.
US07646187B2 Method and apparatus for switching regulator capable of quick feedback from load
This patent specification describes a power adapter which includes a first amplifier configured to amplify a voltage difference between a voltage proportional to an output voltage of a switching regulator and a first reference voltage, a current detector configured to detect a current proportional to an output current of the switching regulator, a second amplifier configured to amplify an output signal from the current detector, a first converter configured to convert an output voltage of the first amplifier to a first current signal, a second converter configured to convert an output voltage of the second amplifier to a second current signal, an oscillator configured to oscillate with rectangular pulses and a controller configured to modulate an oscillation signal of the oscillator in accordance with the first and second current signals output from the first and second converters.
US07646182B2 Power supply apparatus
A first booster circuit and a second booster circuit include input capacitors, reactors, diodes, switch elements, and output capacitors, and are arranged to be symmetric to each other on a positive side and a negative side. The reactors are magnetically coupled to each other. With such configuration, the switch elements are on/off controlled simultaneously based on terminal voltages of the input capacitors and the output capacitors.
US07646180B2 Power losses reduction in switching power converters
Embodiments of the invention provide methods and apparatuses for concurrently eliminating or substantially reducing two or more switching losses in an inverter switching circuit. Embodiments of the invention concurrently reduce multiple types of switching losses under hard switching mode and soft switching mode for active switching devices and diodes. In one embodiment of the invention, the voltage across a switching device is substantially reduced during switch turn-off and/or turn-on time, and also maintained at a substantially reduced level throughout some or all of the tail current loss time of the switching device. The voltage reduction mechanism is implemented as a transformer circuit electrically serially implemented between the voltage source and the switching device. Other methods and apparatuses are also described.
US07646178B1 Broad-speed-range generator
A brushless generator with permanent-magnet multi-pole rotor disks and coreless stator winding disks includes integral electronics to efficiently generate regulated DC current and voltage from shaft input power over a broad speed range. Its power rating is scalable, and it incurs no cogging torque, or friction from gearing. Integral power control electronics includes high-frequency pulse-width-modulated boost regulation, which provides regulated current at requisite voltage over its broad speed range. A main embodiment to produce DC power at widely variable speeds includes signal processing so output power varies according to the third power of speed. A version for use with vertical-axis wind turbines has a relatively large diameter to facilitate a large number of poles. Combined boost-regulation, zero cogging torque, and no gearing, enable a wide speed range, for better power quality and higher wind energy yields. An alternate embodiment is intended to produce DC power from a variety of shaft drive sources, with selectable shaft torque.
US07646174B2 Battery low-voltage cutoff circuit
A electronic device includes an electrical component powered by a battery and a compartment to receive the battery. A low voltage cutoff circuit is configured to couple to the battery. The low voltage cutoff circuit includes a switching device having a control terminal, a current sourcing terminal and current sinking terminal and a resistor coupled between the control terminal and a first terminal of a battery. The circuit has first and second output terminals. The first output terminal is coupled to the first terminal of the battery and the second output terminal is coupled to the current sourcing terminal of the transistor. The first and second output terminals are configured to accept connections to positive and negative terminals of the electrical component.
US07646164B2 Method of adjusting parameters of a synchronous motor and variable speed drive using such a method
The invention relates to a method of adjusting motor parameters in a variable speed drive intended for controlling a synchronous electric motor with permanent magnets M. The method comprises a step of determining the deviations ΔID and ΔIQ between references and measurements of the flux current and motor torque current, a step of calculating a correction value ΔRS of the stator resistance, a correction value ΔL of the inductance and a correction value ΔKE of the flux constant of the motor, on the basis of the integral terms of the deviations ΔID and ΔIQ, a step of adjusting the values of the parameters of the motor model on the basis of ΔRS, ΔL and ΔKE, a step of formulating the control voltages UD and UQ to be applied to the motor M by using the said adjusted values of the motor parameters.
US07646158B2 Device for controlling opening/closing body for vehicle
The rotating speed of an output shaft of a door opening and closing motor actuating a sliding door is monitored, and whether a fluctuation value of the rotating speed is equal to or more than a first determination threshold value is determined (step S310). A second determination threshold value having a pinching detecting sensitivity that is higher than the first determination threshold value is set. When it is determined that the shift lever of the transmission is in a P position, or a foot brake is operating, or a parking brake is operating, whether the fluctuation value of the rotating speed is equal to or more than the second determination threshold value is determined (step S360). If the fluctuation value of the rotating speed is equal to or more than each of the determination threshold values, the sliding door is actuated in an opening direction (step S320).
US07646153B2 Switching regulator
The present invention has an object to provide a switching regulator power supply apparatus that realizes a plurality of light emitting amount outputs without increasing a total number of structural components thereof. A switching regulator power supply apparatus according to the present invention includes a switching type power converting circuit; a current detecting circuit for producing a feedback signal in response to a load current; and an SWR control circuit for driving the power converting circuit. In the switching regulator power supply apparatus, the SWR control circuit is provided with a control signal input terminal and a reference voltage circuit capable of outputting a plurality of reference voltages based upon a control signal inputted to the control signal input terminal.
US07646152B2 Full-bridge and half-bridge compatible driver timing schedule for direct drive backlight system
A driver circuit or controller flexibly drives either a half-bridge or a full-bridge switching network in a backlight inverter without modification, redundant circuitry or additional components. The driver circuit includes four outputs to provide four respective driving signals that establish a periodic timing sequence using a zero-voltage switching technique for semiconductor switches in the switching network.
US07646151B2 Light source module
There is disclosed a light source module comprising a high intensity discharge light source; optical elements including at least a reflector for redirecting and focusing the light emanating from said light source; and electronic elements for supplying said light source with voltage and current of a predetermined waveform and magnitude. The light source may have optical and/or electric parameters at least partially different from optical and/or electrical standard parameters of a light source of identical type. In order to provide a predetermined illuminating beam pattern compatible with the standard, the optical and/or electronic elements are adjusted to the optical and/or electrical parameters of said light source.
US07646146B2 OLED display with planar contrast-enhancement element
An organic light-emitting diode (OLED) device, comprising: a first electrode and a second electrode. One or more organic layers are formed there-between, including an organic light-emitting layer. The second electrode is transparent. A contrast enhancement element is formed on a side of the second electrode, opposite the organic layer, and has a geometric area for controlling ambient light contrast ratio of the OLED device.
US07646143B2 Self-light emitting device and electrical appliance using the same
A self-light emitting device and an electrical appliance including the same are provided, in which extracting efficiency of light from a light emitting element, especially in an EL element, can be improved. A light scattering body formed by etching a transparent film is provided on an insulator so that the extracting efficiency of light can be improved, and the self-light emitting device with high efficiency of light emission can be provided.
US07646141B2 Phosphor, light emitting device by using the same and manufacturing method of the same
Disclosed are a phosphor, which a light emitting device using the phosphor, and a method for producing the phosphor, which allows to control color coordinates, color temperatures and color rendering indexes by shifting a main emission peak without a decrease in light emission luminosity by changing the concentration of an activator included in a phosphor. By this structure, it is possible to actively control the state of white light according to use, thereby enhancing user convenience.
US07646139B2 Head plate assembly for an actuator and method for producing an actuator
A head plate assembly (1) for an actuator, has a cover (2), a lead-through (3), at least one connecting pin (4) led through the lead-through (3), and a seal (5) obturating the lead-through of the connecting pin. The head plate assembly (1) is pre-assembled without the actuator.
US07646138B2 Diamond enhanced thickness shear mode resonator
A thickness shear mode (TSM) resonator is described, comprising a diamond layer. The diamond layer is preferably a high quality diamond layer with at least 90% sp3 bonding or diamond bonding. A method for manufacturing such a resonator is also described. The thickness shear mode resonator according to embodiments described herein may advantageously be used in biosensor application and in electrochemistry applications.
US07646135B1 Integrated piezoelectric composite and support circuit
A module includes a first piezoelectric element and first electronic device. The first piezoelectric provides physical support for said first electronic device. One embodiment includes a first insulating layer. The first insulating layer is mounted on the first piezoelectric element. The first electronic device is mounted on the first insulating layer for providing an electronic support function to the first piezoelectric element. In one embodiment the first electronic device includes a rectifier. One embodiment includes multiple contacts to the piezoelectric element each with its own rectifier. Another embodiment includes a stack of piezoelectric elements.
US07646133B2 Asymmetric membrane cMUT devices and fabrication methods
Asymmetric membrane capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer (“cMUT”) devices and fabrication methods are provided. In a preferred embodiment, a cMUT device according to the present invention generally comprises a membrane having asymmetric properties. The membrane can have a varied width across its length so that its ends have different widths. The asymmetric membrane can have varied flex characteristics due to its varied width dimensions. In another preferred embodiment, a cMUT device according to the present invention generally comprises an electrode element having asymmetric properties. The electrode element can have a varied width across its length so that its ends have different widths. The asymmetric electrode element can have different reception and transmission characteristics due to its varied width dimensions. In another preferred embodiment, a mass load positioned along the membrane can alter the mass distribution of the membrane. Other embodiments are also claimed and described.
US07646130B2 Stator segment and method of assembly
A stator assembly is provided for an electric motor having a longitudinal axis. The stator assembly includes at least one stator segment having a first end member having a stator tooth and at least one of a stator shoe and a back iron. A second end member is positioned with respect to the first end member and has a stator tooth and at least one of a stator shoe and a back iron. A winding generally circumscribes the stator tooth of the first end member and the stator tooth of the second end member. The first and second end members have a parting line generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the motor. A motor incorporating the stator assembly of the present invention is disclosed. Additionally, a method of forming the stator assembly of the present invention is described.
US07646127B2 Winding for three phase motor
In a stator of a motor, a first winding of each coil is arranged around three teeth next to one another and a second winding of each coil is arranged around three teeth with a tooth which is arranged at an end of the three teeth for the first winding at a center thereof. By virtue of such configuration, each coil is arranged around four teeth in a distributed manner.
US07646126B2 Permanent-magnet switched-flux machine
A permanent-magnet switched-flux (PMSF) device has a ferromagnetic outer stator mounted to a shaft about a central axis extending axially through the PMSF device. Pluralities of top and bottom stator poles are respectively mounted in first and second circles, radially outwardly in first and second transverse planes extending from first and second sections of the central axis adjacent to an inner surface of the ferromagnetic outer stator. A ferromagnetic inner rotor is coupled to the shaft and has i) a rotor core having a core axis co-axial with the central axis; and ii) first and second discs having respective outer edges with first and second pluralities of permanent magnets (PMs) mounted in first and second circles, radially outwardly from the rotor core axis in the first and second transverse planes. The first and second pluralities of PMs each include PMs of alternating polarity.
US07646124B2 Magnet retention system for permanent magnet motors and generators
A rotor for a brushless permanent magnet generator/motor comprises a retention slot extending into a rotor flange for receiving a root of a permanent magnet. The retention slot comprises a base extending axially into the rotor flange, a pair of side walls extending radially from the base, and a pair of lugs projecting from the side wall to engage the root to provide radial and tangential retention of the permanent magnet. In other embodiments, the permanent magnet is further restrained in the axial direction by a spring pre-loaded axial retention ring.
US07646120B2 Automotive alternator
The automotive alternator according to the present invention includes: a case; a rotor that is disposed inside the case and that is fixed to a shaft; a stator that is disposed so as to surround the rotor and in which alternating current arises by means of a rotating magnetic field from the rotor; a rectifier that is disposed at an end portion of the shaft and that rectifies the alternating current that arises in the stator into direct current; and a noise preventing capacitor that is connected between a positive side and a negative side of the rectifier and that absorbs noise that arises during rectification into direct current by the rectifier, wherein a carbon resistor that suppresses current that flows to the noise preventing capacitor is connected to the noise preventing capacitor in series.
US07646116B2 Method and system for balancing power distribution in DC to DC power conversion
A method for balancing power distribution in a direct current to direct current (DC to DC) power-conversion system is provided. The power-conversion system includes a plurality of channels that are connected to a load. The channels are also connected to corresponding power sources. The method, at a first channel, includes obtaining a first power, which is the maximum power of the power source connected to the first channel. Further, the method includes computing a reference power based on the power output of the channels. Furthermore, the method includes outputting the reference power when the first power is greater than or equal to the reference power, and outputting the first power when the first power is less than the reference power.
US07646115B2 Regulator circuit with multiple supply voltages
A regulator circuit may be configured to operate with multiple power supplies. The regulator circuit may be configured to receive an input voltage and provide a regulated output voltage at an output terminal as a function of the input voltage. The regulator may include at least two drivers. A first driver may have a driver output coupled to the output terminal and have a supply terminal coupled to a high power supply, and a second driver may have a driver output coupled to the output terminal and have a supply terminal coupled to a low power supply. A selector circuit may be configured to compare the input voltage with a control voltage that has a magnitude just below a magnitude of the low power supply, to determine which driver to select from the first driver and the second driver, and enable either the first driver output or the second driver output to be active according to which driver has been selected. The regulator circuit may be configured to operate with any number of power supplies by including corresponding drivers and selection logic in the selector circuit.
US07646107B2 Programmable power adaptor
Methods and systems for programmable power adaptors that can be programmed to adapt electrical power for one or more electronic devices. A programmable power adaptor optionally includes a user interface and/or other user input mechanism(s), which allows users to preset voltage requirements for one or more electronic devices. The pre-settings are stored in memory for future use. The programmable power adaptor is optionally configurable for multiple electronic devices, and/or multiple users. The programmable power adaptor optionally informs users of faults, proper device usage, and/or provides database access.
US07646106B2 Turbine assembly for generating electricity in vehicles
A system for generating electricity from the rotational movement of wheels of a vehicle incorporates a turbine assembly, a wheel assembly, and an apparatus for storing electricity. The turbine assembly is disposed within the wheel assembly. The turbine assembly is connected to the apparatus for storing electricity thereby supplying the apparatus for storing electricity with electricity produced by the rotational movement of the wheel. The turbine assembly is comprised of a hollow rotor and a stator. The stator is disposed longitudinally within the hollow rotor.
US07646100B2 Semiconductor device with penetrating electrode
The first pad electrode layer is disposed on the surface of the semiconductor substrate with the first insulating film between them. Then, the second insulating film with the first via hole partially exposing the first pad electrode layer is formed over the first pad electrode layer. The plug is formed in the first via hole in the next process. The second pad electrode layer connected to the plug is disposed on the second insulating film. Next, the second via hole reaching to the first pad electrode layer from the backside of the semiconductor substrate is formed. The penetrating electrode and the second wiring layer connected to the first pad electrode layer at the bottom part of the second via hole are disposed. Furthermore, the protecting layer and the conductive terminal are formed. Finally, the semiconductor substrate is diced into the semiconductor chips.
US07646099B2 Self-aligned, integrated circuit contact
Embodiments concern contacts for use in integrated circuits, which have a reduced likelihood of shorting to unrelated portions of an overlying conductive layer due to contact misalignment. Embodiments for forming the integrated circuit include performing a first etching process to pattern the conductive layer, where the etching compound used in the first etching process is relatively selective to the conductive layer's materials. Embodiments also include performing a second, contact related etching process that removes a portion of any misaligned contacts that were exposed by the first etching process, where the etching compound used in the second etching process is selective to the contacts' materials. The embodiments can be used to form vias and other interconnect structures as well. The modified contacts and vias are adapted for use in conjunction with memory cells and apparatus incorporating such memory cells, as well as other integrated circuits.
US07646097B2 Bond pads and methods for fabricating the same
Bond pads for semiconductor devices and method for fabricating the same are provided. A bond pad has a first passivation layer having a plurality of openings. A conductive layer which overlies the openings and portions of the first passivation layer, having a first portion overlying the first passivation layer and a second portion overlying the openings. A second passivation layer overlies the first passivation layer and covers edges of the conductive layer.
US07646092B2 Semiconductor device and manufacturing method thereof
A semiconductor device of the invention includes: a substrate having a hollowed hollow section on a top surface; a semiconductor chip mounted in the hollow section of the substrate; and a lid having a substantially plate-shaped top plate section that opposes the substrate and covers the hollow section, and having at least one pair of side wall sections that project from a circumference of the top plate section towards the substrate and that engage with a side surface of the substrate. The substrate and the lid can be accurately positioned.
US07646091B2 Semiconductor package and method using isolated Vss plane to accommodate high speed circuitry ground isolation
Embodiments of the invention include a semiconductor integrated circuit package that includes a substrate which can have an integrated circuit die attached thereto. The package includes a dedicated high-speed ground plane that is electrically isolated from the ground plane used to ground the low speed circuitry of the package.
US07646087B2 Multiple-dies semiconductor device with redistributed layer pads
A semiconductor device includes a first semiconductor die and a second semiconductor die. The first semiconductor includes a plurality of first bond pads formed on a peripheral region of the first semiconductor die, a plurality of re-distributed layer (RDL) pads formed on a center region of the first semiconductor die, and a plurality of wire routes interconnecting the first bond pads and the RDL pads. The second semiconductor die is disposed over the first semiconductor die, wherein the second semiconductor die has a plurality of second bond pads electrically connecting to the RDL pads via bonding wires; wherein the RDL pad is supported by at least a layer of stress-releasing metal disposed directly underneath the RDL pad.
US07646084B2 Deposition system for increasing deposition rates of metal layers from metal-carbonyl precursors
A method and deposition system for increasing deposition rates of metal layers from metal-carbonyl precursors using CO gas and a dilution gas. The method includes providing a substrate in a process chamber of a processing system, forming a process gas containing a metal-carbonyl precursor vapor and a CO gas, diluting the process gas in the process chamber, and exposing the substrate to the diluted process gas to deposit a metal layer on the substrate by a thermal chemical vapor deposition process. The deposition system contains a substrate holder configured for supporting and heating a substrate in a process chamber having a vapor distribution system, a precursor delivery system configured for forming a process gas containing a metal-carbonyl precursor vapor and a CO gas and for introducing the process gas to the vapor distribution system, a dilution gas source configured for adding a dilution gas to the process gas in the process chamber, and a controller configured for controlling the deposition system during exposure of the substrate to the diluted process gas to deposit a metal layer on the substrate by a thermal chemical vapor deposition process.
US07646081B2 Low-K dielectric material
Method for forming a low dielectric constant structure on a semiconductor substrate by CVD processing. The method comprises using a precursor containing chemical compound having the formula of (R1-R2)n-Si—(X1)4-n, wherein X1 is hydrogen, halogen, acyloxy, alkoxy or OH group, R2 is an optional group and comprises an aromatic group having 6 carbon atoms and R1 is a substituent at position 4 of R2 selected from an alkyl group having from 1 to 4 carbon atoms, an alkenyl group having from 2 to 5 carbon atoms, an alkynyl group having from 2 to 5 carbon atoms, Cl or F; n is an integer 1-3. The present precursors allow for a lowering of the electronic dielectric constant compared to conventional dielectric materials, such as silicon dioxide or phenyl modified organo-containing silicon dioxide.
US07646080B2 Protective film structure
A protective film structure (100) includes a base (110) and a resistive film (120) formed on a surface of the base. The base is comprised of amorphous boron nitride or amorphous boron carbide, and is formed on a surface of a substrate (10) to be protected. The resistive film includes an adhesive layer (121), an intermediate layer (122) and an outermost layer (123), which are formed on a surface of the base one on top of the other in that order.
US07646074B2 Image sensor and method for manufacturing the same
An image sensor that includes a contact plug formed in the substrate; a lower electrode formed on the contact plug; a photo diode formed on the lower electrode, the photo diode having a carbon nanotube provided therein; and an upper electrode formed on the photo diode. The photo diode can function as a color photo diode 160 that can transfer electrons or holes using the carbon nanotube while also functioning as a color filter.
US07646071B2 Asymmetric channel doping for improved memory operation for floating body cell (FBC) memory
An improved dynamic memory cell using a semiconductor fin or body is described. Asymmetrical doping is used in the channel region, with more dopant under the back gate to improve retention without significantly increasing read voltage.
US07646064B1 Semiconductor die with aluminum-spiked heat pipes
A low thermal pathway is provided from the top surface of a silicon substrate to the bottom surface of the silicon substrate by first forming aluminum plugs in the bottom surface of the silicon substrate that contact the silicon substrate and extend up towards the top surface, and then heating the aluminum plugs to a temperature for a period of time sufficient to cause spikes to grow from the sides of the aluminum plugs.
US07646062B2 Semiconductor device comprising buried wiring layer
A semiconductor device that suppresses partial discharging to a semiconductor substrate caused by local concentration of current. The semiconductor device includes a semiconductor substrate, a gate electrode buried in the semiconductor substrate, a conductor buried in the semiconductor substrate further inward from the gate electrode, a wiring layer formed in the semiconductor substrate in connection with the conductor, and an insulation film arranged between the gate electrode and the conductor. The conductor is higher than the surface of the semiconductor substrate.
US07646060B2 Method and device of field effect transistor including a base shorted to a source region
Method for producing a field effect transistor having a source region (9), a drain region and a channel layer (11) interconnecting the source and drain regions, and including the step of providing a sacrificial layer (4) on part of a semiconductor material (1) whose edge is used to define the edge of an implant, such as the source region (9), in the semiconductor material (1), where the edge (4c) of the sacrificial layer (4) is subsequently used to define the edge of a gate (16).
US07646055B2 Semiconductor device and method of fabrication thereof
A method includes the steps of: introducing insulation film into a trench to provide a trench isolation; planarizing the trench isolation to expose a passivation film; and removing the passivation film and depositing a second silicon layer on a first silicon layer and the trench isolation; and in the step of depositing the first silicon layer the first silicon layer is an undoped silicon layer and in the step of depositing the second silicon layer the second silicon layer is a doped silicon layer or an undoped silicon layer subsequently having an impurity introduced thereinto or the like and thermally diffused through subsequent thermal hysteresis into the first silicon layer.
US07646053B2 Memory cell storage node length
Methods, devices, and systems for a memory cell are provided. One embodiment includes a memory cell with a storage node separated from a body region by a first dielectric, wherein the body region includes a channel separating a source and a drain region, and wherein a length of the storage node is less than a length of the channel. The embodiment further includes a memory cell with a gate separated from the storage node by a second dielectric, wherein a length of the gate is greater than a length of the storage node.
US07646052B2 DRAM and SRAM mixedly mounted semiconductor device
A semiconductor device in which a DRAM and a SRAM are mixedly mounted is provided. The DRAM and the SRAM have a stack-type structure in which a bitline is formed below a capacitive element. A cross couple connection of the SRAM is formed in a layer or below the layer in which a capacitive lower electrode of the DRAM is formed and in a layer or above the layer in which the bitline is formed. For example, the cross couple connection of the SRAM is formed in a same layer as a capacitive contact.
US07646051B2 Semiconductor devices having a bit line plug and methods of fabricating the same
A semiconductor device includes a semiconductor substrate, a storage pad and a bit line pad on the semiconductor substrate, a first interlayer insulating layer covering the bit line pad and including a bit line contact hole having a width greater than a width of the bit line pad, a barrier insulating layer on sidewalls of the first interlayer insulating layer and upper portions of sidewalls of the bit line pad that are exposed by the bit line contact hole, a bit line plug in the bit line contact hole and on the barrier insulating layer; and a storage plug penetrating the first interlayer insulating layer and contacting the storage pad.
US07646043B2 Transistors having buried p-type layers coupled to the gate
A unit cell of a metal-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MESFET) is provided. The MESFET has a source, a drain and a gate. The gate is between the source and the drain and on an n-type conductivity channel layer. A p-type conductivity region is provided beneath the gate between the source and the drain. The p-type conductivity region is spaced apart from the n-type conductivity channel layer and electrically coupled to the gate. Related methods are also provided herein.
US07646042B2 Charge coupled device and solid-state imaging apparatus
When capacity coupling between an output gate electrode (OG) and a last-stage transfer electrode is large at an output end of a CCD shift register, an electric potential of the OG is varied according to transfer clocks with the result that noise is liable to generate in an output signal. As measures for this, convex portions projecting horizontally are formed in those positions of the last-stage transfer electrode and the OG, which correspond to a channel region, and overlap between the electrodes is caused only on the convex portions. A clearance is formed between the OG and the transfer electrode except those locations, in which the convex portions are provided. In that location, in which the OG and the transfer electrode, respectively, are extended relatively lengthily toward wirings, the electrodes do not overlap each other. In this manner, capacity coupling between the electrodes is reduced.
US07646039B2 SOI field effect transistor having asymmetric junction leakage
A source trench and a drain trench are asymmetrically formed in a top semiconductor layer comprising a first semiconductor in a semiconductor substrate. A second semiconductor material having a narrower band gap than the first semiconductor material is deposited in the source trench and the drain trench to form a source side narrow band gap region and a drain side narrow band gap region, respectively. A gate spacer is formed and source and drain regions are formed in the top semiconductor layer. A portion of the boundary between an extended source region and an extended body region is formed in the source side narrow band gap region. Due to the narrower band gap of the second semiconductor material compared to the band gap of the first semiconductor material, charge formed in the extended body region is discharged through the source and floating body effects are reduced or eliminated.
US07646038B2 Method of fabricating heteroepitaxial microstructures
An efficient method of fabricating a high-quality heteroepitaxial microstructure having a smooth surface. The method includes detaching a layer from a base structure to provide a carrier substrate having a detached surface, and then forming a heteroepitaxial microstructure on the detached surface of the carrier substrate by depositing an epitaxial layer on the detached surface of a carrier substrate. Also included is a heteroepitaxial microstructure fabricated from such method.
US07646035B2 Packaged light emitting devices including multiple index lenses and multiple index lenses for packaged light emitting devices
A packaged light emitting device includes a substrate, a solid state light emitting device on the substrate, a first generally toroidal lens on the substrate and defining a cavity relative to the solid state light emitting device and having a first index of refraction, and a second lens at least partially within the cavity formed by the first lens and having a second index of refraction that is different from the first index of refraction. The second index of refraction may be higher than the first index of refraction. The lenses may be mounted on the substrate and/or may formed by dispensing and curing liquid encapsulant materials.
US07646031B2 Light emitting device having light emitting elements
A light-emitting device operating on a high drive voltage and a small drive current. LEDs (1) are two-dimensionally formed on an insulating substrate (10) of e.g., sapphire monolithically and connected in series to form an LED array. Two such LED arrays are connected to electrodes (32) in inverse parallel. Air-bridge wiring (28) is formed between the LEDs (1) and between the LEDs (1) and electrodes (32). The LED arrays are arranged zigzag to form a plurality of LEDs (1) to produce a high drive voltage and a small drive current. Two LED arrays are connected in inverse parallel, and therefore an AC power supply can be used as the power supply.
US07646030B2 Flip chip type LED lighting device manufacturing method
A flip chip type LED lighting device manufacturing method includes the step of providing a strip, the step of providing a submount, the step of forming a metal bonding layer on the strip or submount, the step of bonding the submount to the strip, and the step of cutting the structure thus obtained into individual flip chip type LED lighting devices.
US07646028B2 LED driver with integrated bias and dimming control storage
A LED driver IC includes a control module(s) for controlling one or more LED drive parameters and non-volatile memory for storing settings data for that control module(s). The control module(s) is fully integrated into the LED driver IC and does not require any control input from off-chip components or signals. Therefore, the space requirements for LED circuits that make use of the LED driver IC can be minimized. Also, the non-volatile memory storage of settings data eliminates the need for an initialization or configuration input each time the LED driver IC is powered on. The non-volatile memory can be a one-time programmable memory or can be a reprogrammable memory.
US07646027B2 Group III nitride semiconductor stacked structure
An object of the present invention is to provide a Group III nitride semiconductor stacked structure with a low dislocation density obtained by stacking only a semiconductor layer on a flat substrate by the use of a normal epitaxial growth method without processing the substrate or a deposit layer on the substrate, wherein the dislocation density is 1×107 cm−2 or less.The inventive Group III nitride semiconductor stacked structure comprises a substrate having a surface roughness (Ra) of 1 nm or less and a Group III nitride semiconductor layer directly stacked on the substrate, wherein the Group III nitride semiconductor layer comprises a plurality of layers put into contact with each other, the plurality of layers comprise a high-concentration impurity atom layer and a low-concentration impurity atom layer, and the high-concentration impurity atom layer is present on the substrate side.
US07646026B2 SiC-PN power diode
An integrated vertical SiC—PN power diode has a highly doped SiC semiconductor body of a first conductivity type, a low-doped drift zone of the first conductivity type, arranged above the semiconductor body on the emitter side, an emitter zone of a second conductivity type, applied to the drift zone, and at least one thin intermediate layer of the first conductivity type. The intermediate layer is arranged inside the drift zone, has a higher doping concentration than the drift zone, and divides the drift zone into at least one first anode-side drift zone layer and at least one second cathode-side drift zone layer. There is also disclosed a circuit configuration with such SiC—PN power diodes.
US07646023B2 TFT array panel, liquid crystal display including same, and method of manufacturing TFT array panel
A thin film transistor (TFT) array panel effectively minimizing light leakage current and a liquid crystal display including the same. The panel includes a transistor structure having a gate electrode formed on an insulating substrate; a semiconductor layer formed on and insulated from the gate electrode; a light blocking layer formed around and overlapping a portion of the gate electrode; a data line intersecting the gate line to form a source electrode, which overlaps a portion of the semiconductor layer; a drain electrode opposing to the source electrode and overlapping a portion of the semiconductor layer, and a pixel electrode formed on and insulated from the transistor structure and electrically connected to the drain electrode.
US07646019B2 Display device
In view of the problem that a reduced thickness of an EL film causes a short circuit between an anode and a cathode and malfunction of a transistor, the invention provides a display device that has a light emitting element including an electrode and an electroluminescent layer, a wire electrically connected to the electrode of the light emitting element, a transistor provided with an active layer including a source, a drain and a channel forming region, and a power supply line electrically connected to one of the source and the drain of the transistor, wherein the wire is electrically connected to the other of the source and the drain of the transistor, and the width of a part of the electrode in the vicinity of a portion where the electrode is electrically connected to the wire is smaller than that of the electrode in the other portion.
US07646016B2 Method for automated testing of the modulation transfer function in image sensors
A method for automatically measuring the modulation transfer function of an imager is disclosed. A opaque mask is placed over selected columns and rows of the imager during fabrication. In the course of an automated process, photons are uniformly shone over the image sensor. The amount of the input signal that flows from the unmasked pixel cells to the masked pixel cells can then be measured and the modulation transfer function can be determined.
US07646015B2 Manufacturing method of semiconductor device and semiconductor device
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device includes steps of forming a gate electrode over a light-transmitting substrate, forming a gate insulating layer containing an inorganic material over the gate electrode and the substrate, forming an organic layer containing a photopolymerizable reactive group over the gate insulating layer, polymerizing selectively the organic layer by irradiating the organic layer with light from back side of the substrate, using the gate electrode as a mask, forming an organic polymer layer by removing a residue of the organic layer, being other than polymerized, forming an organosilane film including a hydrolytic group over the gate insulating layer in a region other than a region in which the organic polymer layer is formed, forming source and drain electrodes by applying a composition containing a conductive material over the organic polymer layer, and forming a semiconductor layer over the gate electrode, the source and drain electrodes.
US07646014B2 Organic thin film transistor comprising fluorine-based polymer thin film and method for fabricating the same
Disclosed is an organic thin film transistor, including a substrate, a gate electrode, a gate insulating layer, an organic semiconductor layer, and source/drain electrodes, in which a fluorine-based polymer thin film is provided between the source/drain electrodes and the organic semiconductor layer. A method of fabricating such an organic thin film transistor is also provided. According to example embodiments, the organic thin film transistor may have increased charge mobility and an Ion/Ioff ratio, due to decreased contact resistance between the source/drain electrodes and the organic semiconductor layer. Moreover, upon the formation of the organic semiconductor layer and insulating film, a wet process may be more easily applied, thus simplifying the fabrication process and decreasing the fabrication cost.
US07646012B2 Organic thin film transistor and manufacturing method thereof
An organic thin film transistor includes a substrate, a gate electrode, a gate insulating layer, a first electrode, and a second electrode disposed on the substrate, a first layer disposed on the substrate, the first layer being photosensitive, a second layer disposed on the first layer, the second layer being hydrophobic, an opening defined in the first and second layers, the opening corresponding to the gate electrode, and a hydrophilic organic semiconductor disposed in the opening.
US07646011B2 Organic light emitting display device
An organic light emitting display device is disclosed. The device includes a substrate; a first electrode formed on the substrate; an organic layer including at least an emission layer and formed on the first electrode; and a second electrode formed on the organic layer. The emission layer includes a host and a dopant material. The dopant is one of materials having the structure of Formula 1, where R may be one selected from the group consisting of ethylene, an ethylene derivative, stilbene, a stilbene derivative. Also, R1 to R6 may be different from or equal to each other, and each is selected from the group consisting of a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, a substituted or unsubstituted C1 to C20 alkyl group, a substituted or unsubstituted C1 to C20 alkoxy group, a substituted or unsubstituted C5 to C20 aryl group, a C3 to C30 heterocyclic group, and an aliphatic C3 to C30 hydrocarbon group.
US07646006B2 Three-terminal cascade switch for controlling static power consumption in integrated circuits
A switching circuit configured for controlling static power consumption in integrated circuits includes a plurality of three-terminal, phase change material (PCM) switching devices connected between a voltage supply terminal and a corresponding sub-block of integrated circuit logic. Each of the PCM switching devices further includes a PCM disposed in contact between a first terminal and a second terminal, a heating device disposed in contact between the second terminal and a third terminal, the heating device positioned proximate the PCM, and configured to switch the conductivity of a transformable portion of the PCM between a lower resistance crystalline state and a higher resistance amorphous state; and an insulating layer configured to electrically isolate the heater from said PCM material, and the heater from the first terminal. The third terminal of a first of the PCM switching devices is coupled to a set/reset switch, and the third terminal of the remaining PCM switching devices is coupled to the second terminal of an adjacent PCM switching device in a cascade configuration.
US07646004B2 Optical element for radiation in the EUV and/or soft X-ray region and an optical system with at least one optical element
An optical element, especially a normal-incidence collector mirror, for radiation in the EUV and/or soft X-ray region of wavelengths is described. The element has a substrate, a multilayer coating with an optically active region, and a capacitor, having a first and a second capacitor electrode. At least one layer of the multilayer coating serves as the first capacitor electrode. At least one dielectric layer is provided between the two capacitor electrodes. Also described is an optical system with at least one optical element, having a first electrode arranged in the vicinity of the optical element.
US07646003B2 Focusing apparatus and lithography system using the same
A focusing apparatus and a lithography system using the same capable of adjusting a uniformity of an electromagnetic field by moving a portion of a magnetic field generator. The focusing apparatus may control a path of an electron beam generated from an electron-beam emitter of the lithography system. In the focusing apparatus, a uniformity of the magnetic field in the vacuum chamber may be adjusted through movement of the portion of the magnetic field generator with respect to the vacuum chamber.
US07645998B2 Detector module, detector and computed tomography unit
A detector module includes an array of detector elements and a printed circuit board. On a first side of the circuit board, the array of detector elements is arranged, and on a second side at least one component used for signal processing is arranged. The printed circuit board makes electrical contact with a plug connector having a free space in which the component is held. The detector module is provided for a detector of a computed tomography unit.
US07645996B2 Microscale gas discharge ion detector
A microscale planar device for detecting particles under high pressure with high sensitivity. The device may have an anode and cathode with an insulator situated between them. The insulator may have a number of holes, cavities or channels between the anode and cathode. There may be conductive rings at the perimeters of openings of the channels on the anode side of the insulator. These rings may be a part of the anode. An ion may be attracted into one of the channels where it interacts with a gas to result in an avalanche breakdown. The breakdown may be detected by instrumentation connected to the anode and cathode. The lateral and/or longitudinal dimensions of the channels may be such that the device may operate as a detector with ambient air as a gas under its pressure of about one atmosphere.
US07645993B2 Arrayed neutron detector with multi shielding allowing for discrimination between radiation types
Neutron detectors including one or more gamma shields over memory dies and methods of making the neutron detectors are provided. The neutron detectors can contain two or more memory dies, neutron-reactant layers over the two or more memory dies, and one or more gamma shields over at least a portion of or an entire of the two or more memory dies. By containing the gamma shield over the at least a portion of or an entire of the two or more memory dies, the neutron detector can detect and discriminate neutrons in the presence of gamma rays.
US07645991B1 Method of using IR spectroscopy to determine presence of metallic material in polymer composite material
An IR spectroscopic method of determining the presence or absence of metallic material embedded in polymer material including irradiating a surface of said polymer material and collecting at least one spectrum of reflected infrared energy from said surface of said over a spectrum of wavelengths including the near-infrared wherein said metallic material is at least partially absent in a affected condition; performing a multivariate comparison of said at least one spectrum with at least one reference spectrum to determine a change in reflectance of said at least one spectrum with respect to at least one reference spectrum wherein said metallic material is present in an unaffected condition; and, correlating the amount of said change in reflectance with the presence or absence of said metallic material embedded in said polymer material.
US07645985B1 Method and apparatus for magnetic separation of ions
The disclosed device is directed toward an apparatus for the separation of ions. The apparatus for the separation of ions comprises a vessel including an inlet fluidly coupled to an outlet. A magnetic field is applied substantially orthogonal to the flow of the fluid. The magnetic field applies a force that separates the oppositely charged ions.
US07645984B2 Apparatus and method for identifying peaks in liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry data and for forming spectra and chromatograms
Chromatograms and mass spectra produced by an LC/MS system are analyzed by creating a two-dimensional data matrix of the spectral and chromatographic data. The two-dimensional matrix can be created by placing the spectra generated by the mass spectrometer portion of the LC/MS system in successive columns of the data matrix. In this way, the rows of the data matrix correspond to chromatographic data and the columns of the data matrix correspond to the spectra. A two-dimensional filter is specified and applied to the data matrix to enhance the ability of the system to detect peaks associated with ions. The two-dimensional filter is specified according to desired criteria. Rank-1 and rank-2 filters can be specified to improve computational efficiency. One method of applying the two-dimensional filter is through convolution of the data matrix with the two-dimensional filter to produce an output data matrix. Peaks corresponding to detected ions are identified in the output data matrix. Parameters of the peaks are determined and stored for later processing including quantitation, or simplification of chromatograms or spectra by, for example, identifying peaks associating with ions having retention times falling within a specified retention time window or having mass-to charge ratios falling within a specified mass-to-charge ratio window.
US07645982B1 Calibrated, variable output, high energy laser source
A system and method for calibrating laser designator and rangefinder test sets. The system includes a high speed detector module which receives a laser input signal, and outputs a laser output signal and an electrical pulse shaped output. A variable attenuator module receives the laser output signal and includes a rotating waveplate which rotates a polarization of the received laser output signal and a Glan laser polarizing beam splitter which receives the rotated laser output signal. The polarizing beam splitter passes only vertically polarized portions of the rotated laser output signal. An energy detector module receives the vertically polarized portions of the rotated laser output signal and includes a beam splitter which splits the vertically polarized portions of the rotated laser output signal into a first path pulse and a second path pulse. The second path pulse and the electrical pulse shaped output are used to calibrate a laser designator/rangefinder test set.
US07645981B2 Image pickup device mounting structure for saving space in an optical device
An image pickup device mounting structure includes an image pickup device, a reinforcing plate, and a flexible circuit board having at least one electrical component mounted thereon, wherein the reinforcing plate; the image pickup device and a part of the flexible circuit board are superimposed on each other, the reinforcing plate includes at least one cutout portion; and the electrical component is positioned on the part of the flexible circuit board and within the cutout portion.
US07645980B2 Photoelectric switch having a prism with a reflective surface being positioned by a release button
A photoelectric switch is disclosed. An illustrative embodiment of the photoelectric switch includes at least one light source, a reflective surface provided in light-receiving relationship with respect to the at least one light source, a release button engaging the reflective surface and positional between first and second positions, a photocell provided in light-receiving relationship with respect to the reflective surface when the release button is disposed in the first position, a latch control circuit connected to the photocell and a latch connected to the latch control circuit. The light path incorporates a collimator to restrict operation of the system to the relationship of the light source and the retroreflector.
US07645978B2 Image sensing apparatus and image sensing method using image sensor having two or more different photoelectric conversion characteristics
An image sensing apparatus and an image sensing method of the invention are configured in such a manner that an image sensor having two or more different photoelectric conversion characteristics is used, a gain of image signals having the respective photoelectric conversion characteristics acquired by the image sensor is calculated based on the image signals having the respective photoelectric conversion characteristics, and gain control is performed with respect to each of the photoelectric conversion characteristics, using the calculated gain. This arrangement enables to control the imaging sensitivity without changing the dynamic range.
US07645975B2 Spatial information detecting device
A spatial information detecting device for accurately detecting information of a target space is provided. This device has photoelectric converters for receiving a reflection light from the space, in which a flashing light is being irradiated, a charge storage portion formed in each of the photoelectric converters by applying a control voltage to electrodes on each of the photoelectric converters, a controller for controlling the number of electrodes, to which the control voltage is applied, such that an area of the charge storage portion changes based on a flash cycle of the flashing light, and an amplitude-image generator for generating an amplitude image having pixel values, each of which is provided by a difference between electric charges collected in a lighting period of the flashing light by a charge storage portion and the electric charges collected in a non-lighting period of the flashing light by another charge storage portion.
US07645974B2 Method and apparatus for distance measurement
The disclosed subject matter relates to a method and distance measurement apparatus for measuring a distance to an object, which can include a light source, a solid state camera, a controller and a distance data generator. The light source can be configured to emit a modulated light towards an object, and the solid state camera can convert the light reflected from the object into charges. The distance data generator can be configured to calculate the distance based on the charges, and the controller can be configured to adjust the modulated light to be more favorable under various circumstances. Thus, the method of the disclosed subject matter can accurately measure distance under various circumstances and can result in providing a distance measurement apparatus with a simple configuration and at low cost, and can be used as a sensor for distance measurement of an obstacle and the like in a vehicle, security system, robot, etc.
US07645969B2 Low voltage device for the generation of plasma discharge to operate a supersonic or hypersonic apparatus
A method, device, and projectile having a device for guiding or piloting projectiles or missiles (self-propelled or non-self-propelled), to deflect, in a direction Y, a hypervelocity projectile operating in a gas, such as a shell, a bullet, or a missile, having a nose, generally in the shape of a cone, with a more or less pointed tip, by generating a first high-voltage discharge able to produce a plasma over a first limited sector of the projectile surface and in direction Y, maintaining the plasma, and generating another low-voltage discharge able to supply the plasma with energy over a second limited sector of the projectile surface and in direction Y, the first and the second sectors being different and may overlap.
US07645967B2 Microwave oven
The present invention relates to a microwave oven. The microwave oven of the present invention comprises a cavity assembly which defines a cooking chamber therein and functions as a framework of the microwave oven, an outer casing which includes a top portion and side portions formed at both ends of the top portion to enclose the cavity assembly and interior parts and is provided with convexo-concave reinforcements at the top portion and at least one side portion, a door of which one side is connected to the cavity assembly to be a pivot center and which selectively causes the cooking chamber to be open and close, and a back plate which defines a rear face of the cavity assembly and is provided with a convexo-concave reinforcement formed along at least one edge portion thereof. According to the present invention constructed as such, there is an advantage in that external rigidity of the microwave oven is increased, whereby deformation of the microwave oven due to an impact or operating force can be minimized.
US07645960B2 Coded welding consumable
A welder for performing a welding process which includes a wire feeder and a code reader. The code reader is designed to obtain information from the welding wire based on a plurality of different cross-sectional sizes and/or different cross-sectional shapes on the outer surface of the welding wire. The information from the code reader is used to monitor at least one welding parameter of an electric arc welding process and/or to control at least one welding parameter of an electric arc welding process.
US07645959B2 Nozzle for plasma torches
Nozzles for plasma torches are essentially formed from a metal or a metal alloy. To increase the life of such nozzles wear-resistant microparticles of a hard material, preferably a hard ceramic material, are embedded in the metal or the metal alloy, at least in certain regions. The nozzles can be advantageously manufactured by extrusion.
US07645958B2 Electric-discharge-machining power supply apparatus and small-hole electric-discharge machining apparatus
In order to obtain an electric-discharge-machining power supply apparatus that can flow discharge current pulses through the machining gap uniformly and efficiently, and can realize reduction of the amount of electrode wear in machining in the alternate current pulse system, in an electric-discharge-machining power supply apparatus (2) for applying electric-discharge-machining pulse voltage to a machining gap between a machining electrode (8) and an object (9) to be machined, wherein a circuit (22) composed of a parallel connection of a rectifying element (24) and a resistive element (23) is inserted in series along a wiring path extending from an electric-discharge pulse generating unit (6) to the machining gap, and the rectifying element (23) is so connected as to cause machining pulse currents to flow in an intended direction during the electric discharge generation.
US07645954B2 Transparent conductor and panel switch
The present invention provides a transparent conductor comprising a successive lamination of a support, a conductive particle layer containing a conductive particle and a first binder, and a conductive film layer containing a bead and a second binder; wherein a surface of the conductive film layer opposite from the conductive particle layer is rough.
US07645953B2 Electrical switching apparatus, and accessory module and electrical conductor mount therefor
An electrical conductor mount is provided for an accessory including a number of electrical conductors and an actuator. The electrical conductor mount includes an accessory enclosure from which or to which the electrical conductors extend. A mounting element is disposed on the enclosure proximate the electrical conductors external to the accessory enclosure. The mounting element includes a receiving portion structured to receive the electrical conductors, and a retaining portion retains the electrical conductors within the receiving portion. The mounting element mounts the electrical conductors in a position in which they do not obstruct operation of the actuator. The mounting element may be a resilient hook including a first end disposed on the enclosure of an accessory module. The retaining portion may be a hook disposed on the second end of the resilient hook.
US07645948B2 Solids handling apparatus and method
An apparatus for weighing and dispensing a mass of material, including a closed chamber, a scale disposed in the closed chamber; and a receptacle disposed in the closed chamber and operatively connected to the scale. The receptacle has an inlet, an outlet, and a valve. An actuator for opening and closing the valve is movable between a first position wherein the actuator is decoupled from the valve and a second position wherein the actuator is coupled to the valve.
US07645942B2 Electrical interconnect with maximized electrical contact
An electrical interconnect has an adhesive layer in which is formed an array of apertures, the apertures being of non-circular shape. An electrical circuit apparatus has a first circuit having at least one electrical contact, a second circuit having at least one electrical contact aligned to the electrical contact of the first circuit, and a standoff structure between the first and second circuits having at least one aperture aligned to one electrical contact of the first and second circuits, the aperture being of a non-circular shape.
US07645939B2 Retroreflecting elongated metal wire product
A metal wire is first coated with a coating. In this first coating, retro-reflective beads are partly embedded. Thereafter the beads and the first coating are covered by a protective coating. The metal wire is made from a strand or wire made of stainless steel, or low carbon steel, or high carbon steel. The retro-reflective metal wire is used for diverse applications, such as spoke wire, signalization means, or bookbinding wire.
US07645933B2 Carbon nanotube Schottky barrier photovoltaic cell
Carbon nanotube Schottky barrier photovoltaic cells and methods and apparatus for making the cells are provided. The photovoltaic cells include at least one contact made from a first contact material, at least one contact made from a second contact material and a plurality of photoconducting carbon nanotubes bridging the contacts. A Schottky barrier is formed at the interface between the first contact material and the carbon nanotubes while at the interface between the second contact material and the carbon nanotubes, a Schottky barrier for the opposite carrier is formed, or a small, or no Schottky barrier is formed. It is the Schottky barrier asymmetry that allows the photo-excited electron-hole pairs to escape from the carbon nanotube device.
US07645932B2 Solar cell device having a charge pump
A solar cell device includes a solar cell section configured to output a first voltage upon receiving light. A charge pump circuit includes a first charge pump. The first charge pump includes a first terminal and a second terminal. The first terminal is configured to receive the first voltage from the solar cell section, and the second terminal is configured to output a second voltage that is higher than the first voltage. An output section is configured to receive an output voltage output by the charge pump circuit. The charge pump circuit is formed on a single semiconductor substrate.
US07645931B2 Apparatus to reduce the cost of renewable hydrogen fuel generation by electrolysis using combined solar and grid power
One embodiment of the invention includes a PV array and an electrolyzer operatively connected together and each operatively connected to a utility power grid so that electricity produced by the PV array is selectively delivered to the utility power grid and the electrolyzer. The resulting process increases the efficiency of the solar-hydrogen production process, and results in lower-cost renewable hydrogen.
US07645925B2 Tobacco products with increased nicotine
DNA encoding a plant quinolate phosphoribosyl transferase (QPRTase) enzyme, and constructs comprising such DNA are provided. Methods of altering quinolate phosphoribosyl transferase expression are provided.
US07645921B1 Soybean variety XB15A08
According to the invention, there is provided a novel soybean variety designated XB15A08. This invention thus relates to the seeds of soybean variety XB15A08, to the plants of soybean XB15A08 to plant parts of soybean variety XB15A08 and to methods for producing a soybean plant produced by crossing plants of the soybean variety XB15A08 with another soybean plant, using XB15A08 as either the male or the female parent.
US07645920B1 Mutant gene of the GRAS family and plants with reduced development containing said mutant gene
The invention relates to the production of plants with reduced development and a mutant gene of the GRAS family.
US07645914B2 Method for the telomerization of non-cyclic olefins
Process for telomerizing noncyclic olefins having at least two conjugated double bonds with at least one nucleophile using a catalyst containing a metal of group 8, 9 or 10 of the Periodic Table of the Elements, wherein hydrogen is added via a hydrogen source to the process in at least one process step in the overall telomerization process.
US07645913B2 Liquid phase alkylation with multiple catalysts
A process is disclosed for producing an alkylaromatic compound in a multistage reaction system comprising at least first and second series-connected alkylation reaction zones, each containing an alkylation catalyst. A first feed comprising an alkylatable aromatic compound and a second feed comprising an alkene are introduced into the first alkylation reaction zone. The first and second alkylation reaction zones are operated under conditions of temperature and pressure effective to cause alkylation of the aromatic compound with the alkene in the presence of the alkylation catalyst, the temperature and pressure being such that the aromatic compound is at least partly in the liquid phase. The alkylation catalyst in the first alkylation reaction zone, which may be a reactor guard bed, has more acid sites per unit volume of catalyst than the alkylation catalyst in the second reaction zone.
US07645910B2 Process for the preparation of aromatic derivatives of 1-adamantane
Process for the obtaining of 1-adamantane (tricycle[3.3.1.1 (3,7)]decane) derivatives, or of a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, based on a carboxylation reaction, via metallation, of a precursor compound with an adequate leaving group. It also comprises the preparation of the precursor compound by means of a selective coupling of the corresponding boron, magnesium or zinc derivative with the corresponding disubstitute aromatic derivative. It is especially useful for the obtaining of Adapalene at industrial scale with good yield and high purity.
US07645906B2 Graded catalyst bed for methyl mercaptan synthesis
A process and graded catalyst bed for selectively producing methyl mercaptan from methanol. The methanol is reacted with hydrogen sulfide, in the presence of a graded catalyst bed containing at least three types of nickel or cobalt molybdenum alumina catalysts to convert the methanol to methyl mercaptan in one-pass. At least one of the hydrotreating catalysts can contain aluminium phosphate. Use of the graded catalyst bed prevents the formation of a hot spot within the graded catalyst bed. The methyl mercaptan having less than about 30 wt. % unreacted methanol contained therein.
US07645902B2 Acid-catalyzed dehydrogenation of amine-boranes
A method of dehydrogenating an amine-borane using an acid-catalyzed reaction. The method generates hydrogen and produces a solid polymeric [R1R2B—NR3R4]n product. The method of dehydrogenating amine-boranes may be used to generate H2 for portable power sources.
US07645899B1 Vinyl compounds
In accordance with the present invention, there are provided novel thermosetting resin compositions which do not require solvent to provide a system having suitable viscosity for convenient handling. Invention compositions have the benefit of undergoing rapid cure. The resulting thermosets are stable to elevated temperatures, are highly flexible, have low moisture uptake and are consequently useful in a variety of applications, e.g., in adhesive applications since they display good adhesion to both the substrate and the device attached thereto.
US07645898B2 Selective androgen receptor modulators and method of use thereof
This invention provides SARM compounds and uses thereof in treating a variety of diseases or conditions in a subject, including, inter-alia, a muscle wasting disease and/or disorder or a bone-related disease and/or disorder.
US07645895B2 Reagent and method for preparing a fluorinated and silylated derivative
The invention relates to a method for preparing a fluorinated and silylated derivative having a bond between the bearing carbon of at least one fluorine and one silicon. This method comprises at least one step during which a derivative of formula (I) Rf—CO—O-D, in which D is selected among silylated radicals, is placed in the presence of a base. The inventive method is used for synthesizing fluorinated derivatives.
US07645893B2 Highly soluble ferrocenyl compounds
Substituted ferrocenium compounds comprising at least one pendant oleophilic substituent on at least one of the cyclopentadienyl groups and an inert, compatible, noncoordinating, anion and processes for use thereof as catalyst activators for addition polymerizations or as oxidizing agents for metal complex syntheses.
US07645892B2 Reaction system
Reaction gases such as hydrogen, oxygen and propylene are reacted in a slurry of solid catalyst in solvent, the reaction being carried out in a series of separate zones with intermediate removal of the exothermic heat of reaction by indirect heat exchange.
US07645891B2 6-alkenyl-, 6-alkinyl- and 6-epoxy-epothilone derivatives, process for their production, and their use in pharmaceutical preparations
This invention describes the new 6-alkenyl- and 6-alkinyl-epothilone derivatives of general formula (I) in which R1a, R1b, R2b, R3a, R3b, R4, R5, R6, R7, A, Y, D, E, G, Y and Z have the meanings that are indicated in the description. The new compounds interact with tubulin by stabilizing microtubuli that are formed. They are able to influence the cell-splitting in a phase-specific manner and thus find use in treating diseases or conditions associated with the need for cell growth, division and/or proliferation. Thus the compounds are suitable for treating malignant tumors, for example, ovarian, stomach, colon, adeno-, breast, lung, head and neck carcinomas, malignant melanoma, acute lymphocytic and myelocytic leukemia. In addition, they are suitable for anti-angiogenesis therapy as well as for treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases (such as psoriasis, arthritis). Methods of use and preparation of the compounds are also described.
US07645890B2 Process for preparing duloxetine and intermediates for use therein
A process for preparing (+)duloxetine, or an acid addition salt thereof, which process comprises resolving racemic(±)duloxetine with a chiral acid so as to obtain a salt of the chiral acid and (+)duloxetine, substantially free of (−)duloxetine; and (ii) if desired, converting the salt prepared in step (i) to the free base or another acid addition salt as appropriate. The process for preparing (+)duloxetine, or an acid addition salt thereof, can further comprise an O-alkylation intermediate process step which is carried out in the presence of a base and a phase transfer catalyst.
US07645878B2 Process for preparing quinazoline Rho-kinase inhibitors and intermediates thereof
A process for the preparation of various quinazoline compounds which are useful as Rho-Kinase inhibitors, and thus having utility in the treatment of hypertension and other indications.
US07645877B2 Heptazine derivatives containing phosphorus, method for the production thereof and use thereof as flame retardants
The present invention relates to unsymmetrical and symmetrical phosphorus-comprising heptazine derivatives, represented by the formula (1): in which Ra, Rb and Rc are, independently of one another, an azide group —N3 or an —N═PR1R2R3 group, with the proviso that at least one radical from Ra, Rb and Rc is an —N═PR1R2R3 group, to a process for the preparation thereof and to the use thereof.
US07645869B2 siRNA targeting spleen tyrosine kinase
Efficient sequence specific gene silencing is possible through the use of siRNA technology. By selecting particular siRNAs by rationale design, one can maximize the generation of an effective gene silencing reagent, as well as methods for silencing genes.
US07645868B2 Families of non-cross-hybridizing polynucleotides for use as tags and tag complements, manufacture and use thereof
A family of minimally cross-hybridizing nucleotide sequences, methods of use, etc. A specific family of 1168 24mers is described.
US07645861B2 Modified Fc molecules
The present invention concerns compositions of matter, for example, but not limited to, modified antibodies, in which one or more biologically active peptides are incorporated into a loop region of a non-terminal domain of an immunoglobulin Fc domain.
US07645850B2 Poly(block-phosphonato-ester) and poly(block-phosphonato-carbonate) and methods of making same
Compositions including poly(block-phophonato-esters) or poly(block-phosphonato-carbonate) and a process for making them from oligomeric phosphonates and/or polyphosphonates and polyester and/or polycarbonates are disclosed. The compositions provide tough flame retardant materials and coatings.
US07645848B2 Process for preparation of SiOC-linked, linear polydimethylsiloxane-polyoxyalkylene block copolymers
The invention therefore relates to a process for preparation of SiOC-linked, linear (AB)d polydimethylsiloxane-polyoxyalkylene block copolymers of the general formula [(R2SiO)x(CnH2nO)y]d, in which R are monovalent C1-C18, preferably C1-C4, hydrocarbon radicals, n is a number from 2 to 4, preferably 2 or 3, x ≧5, y ≧10, d ≧3, via reaction of aminosiloxanes having primary amino groups with polyoxyalkylenediols, which comprises concomitant use of one or more tertiary amines as catalyst.
US07645847B2 Process for preparing polyolefin products
A novel liquid phase polymerization process for preparing a polyolefin product having preselected properties is disclosed. The process includes the steps of providing a liquid feedstock which contains an olefinic component and a catalyst composition consisting of a stable complex of BF3 and a complexing agent therefor. The feedstock may comprise any one or more of a number of olefins including branched olefins such as isobutylene, C3 to C15 linear alpha olefins and C4 to C15 reactive non-alpha olefins. The feedstock and the catalyst composition are introduced into a residual reaction mixture recirculating in a loop reactor reaction zone provided in the tube side of a shell and tube heat exchanger at a recirculation rate sufficient to cause intimate intermixing of the residual reaction mixture, the added feedstock and the added catalyst composition. The heat of the polymerization reaction is removed from the recirculating intimately intermixed reaction admixture at a rate calculated to provide a substantially constant reaction temperature therein while the same is recirculating in said reaction zone. The conditions in the reactor are appropriate for causing olefinic components introduced in said feedstock to undergo polymerization to form the desired polyolefin product in the presence of the catalyst composition. A product stream containing the desired polyolefin product is withdrawn from the reaction zone. The introduction of the feedstock into the reaction zone and the withdrawal of the product stream from the reaction zone are controlled such that the residence time of the olefinic components undergoing polymerization in the reaction zone is appropriate for production of the desired polyolefin product.
US07645841B2 Method and system to reduce polymerization reactor fouling
Techniques are provided for the prevention of reactor fouls in polymerization reactors. A technique is provided for limiting polymer particle size to prevent or limit the occurrence of reactor fouls associated with large polymer particles. A technique is also provided for measuring reactor temperature at one or more local hot spots of the reactor and for controlling the polymerization reaction based upon these temperature measurements. In particular, control of the reaction may be based on the hottest temperature, such that the hottest temperature in the reactor is maintained within the reactor fouling curve. A technique is also discussed for predicting reactor fouls by using statistical analyses, such as periodogram analysis, to identify leading indicators of impending fouls. Preventative measures may be performed upon identification of such a leading indicator. In addition, the statistical analyses may be used to identify catalysts having less propensity to foul.
US07645839B2 Binary mixtures of biodegradable aliphatic polyesters and products obtained from these
A biodegradable mixture obtained by melt mixing polyesters comprising (A) an aliphatic polyester obtained from aliphatic diacids selected from the group consisting of azelaic acid, sebacic acid, brassilic acid, mixtures thereof and mixtures of said acids with aliphatic dicarbossilic acids and/or aliphatic hydroxyacids containing more than 50 mole % of azelaic acid, sebacic acid and brassilic acid, and from aliphatic diols; (B) a polymer of lactic acid in which the concentration by weight of A with respect to (A+B) is in the range of 30 to 60% and in which the sum of the fusion entalpy ΔHA and ΔHB of the two polyesters in the mixture is greater than the sum of the fusion entalpies ΔH1 and ΔH2 of the polyesters prior to melt mixing.
US07645838B2 Conjugated non-aromatic diene or dienophilic compound-modified polyphenylene ethers
A modified polyphenylene ether resin is provided which is a product of the reaction of 100 parts by weight of (A) a polyphenylene ether having a main chain structure of the following formula (1): (wherein R1 and R4 each independently represents hydrogen, a primary or secondary lower alkyl, a phenyl, an aminoalkyl or a hydrocarbonoxy, and R2 and R3 each independently represents hydrogen, a primary or secondary lower alkyl or a phenyl), with 0.01 to 10.0 parts by weight of (B) a modifier selected from conjugated non-aromatic diene compounds, dienophilic compounds having one dienophile group and precursors of the diene or dienophilic compounds, wherein the number of rearrangement structures each represented by the following formula (2): (wherein R1, R2, R3, and R4 have the same meanings as defined above in the formula (1)) is less than 0.01 per 100 phenylene ether units of the formula (1).
US07645836B2 Process for producing high quality ionomers
A reactive extrusion process for producing an ionomer is disclosed. The process comprising adding a polymer containing a carboxyl functionality to an extruder, then homogenously melting the polymer in a melting zone of the extruder. A first melt seal zone of the extruder is formed to separate the melting zone from an injection zone where an aqueous solution of metallic ions are added to the molten polymer. The first melt seal zone is formed by increasing the pressure in the melt seal zone to a pressure which is higher than the vapor pressure of the water at any point in the injection zone and the reaction zone. The aqueous solution of metallic ions is then mixed with the polymer containing the carboxyl functionality in a reaction zone of the extruder under conditions such that the metallic ions are substantially reacted with the carboxyl functionality. A pressure build-up zone is formed in the extruder, wherein the pressure build-up zone is located no earlier than at the end of the reaction zone wherein the pressure build-up zone is formed by increasing the pressure to a level such that the aqueous solution of metallic ions remains in the liquid phase for a time sufficient to allow for the desired reaction between the metallic ions and the carboxyl functionality of the polymer.
US07645832B2 Use of metal oxides and salts to enhance adhesion to steels
A thermoplastic elastomer having adhesion to steels, where the thermoplastic elastomer includes a dynamically crosslinked rubber, from more than 2.0 to 10 parts of a metal oxide or salt, and from 10 to 200 parts by weight of a functionalized polyolefin having pendant polar functional groups, where the polar functional groups are present at a level of 0.5 to 3.5 mole percent of the total repeating units of said functionalized polyolefin and the functionalized polyolefin is derived from polymerizing at least one monoolefin to form a semicrystalline polymer or is derived from hydrogenating the polydiene blocks of a block copolymer, and where the parts by weight are based on 100 parts by weight of crosslinked rubber.
US07645831B2 Reactive hot melt adhesives
Reactive hot melt adhesives compositions with long open time and/or high green strength are prepared by the use of urethane diols. These results are achievable at moderate/low application viscosity or low application temperature.
US07645830B2 Polymer, crosslinked polymer, composition for solid polymer electrolyte, solid polymer electrolyte, and adhesive composition
A polymer including a block chain A which is formed from a random copolymer containing a repeating unit (I) represented by the formula (I) wherein R1 to R3 each independently represents hydrogen or C1-10 hydrocarbon and R1 and R3 may bond to form a ring; R4a and R4b each independently represents hydrogen or methyl; R5 represents hydrogen, hydrocarbon, acyl, or silyl; and m represents any integer of 1 to 100 and when m is 2 or more and each R4a may be the same or different from one another and each R4b may be the same or different from one another; and a repeating unit (II) represented by the formula (II) wherein R6 and R8 each independently represents hydrogen or C1-10 hydrocarbon and R6 and R8 may bond to form a ring; R7 represents hydrogen, C1-10 hydrocarbon, hydroxyl, hydrocarbonoxy, carboxyl, acid anhydride, amino, ester, or an organic group having at least one functional group selected from the group consisting of hydroxyl, carboxyl, epoxy, acid anhydride, and amino; and R9 represents an organic group having at least one functional group selected from the group consisting of hydroxyl, carboxyl, epoxy, acid anhydride, and amino; and a block chain B having a repeating unit (III) represented by the formula (III) wherein R10 to R12 each independently represents hydrogen or C1-10 hydrocarbon and R13 represents aryl or heteroaryl; and wherein an arrangement order thereof is B, A, B.
US07645828B2 Monodisperse silica spheres containing polyamine and process for producing the same
Monodisperse silica spheres containing polyamine, which comprise a polymer (A) having a linear polyethyleneimine chain, a compound (B) having an acidic group, and silica (C).
US07645825B2 Flame-retardant polyamide composition
A flame-retardant polyamide composition having excellent properties in mechanical properties such as toughness, in heat resistance, incombustibility and flowability in a reflow soldering process, and in heat stability during molding. There is provided a flame-retardant polyamide composition comprising 20 to 80% by mass of polyamide resin (A), 5 to 40% by mass of flame retardant with specific bromine content and molecular weight (B) and 0.5 to 10% by mass of flame retardant auxiliary agent (C) optionally together with hydrotalcite compound of specific composition (D).
US07645824B2 Color stable antimicrobial coatings
The present invention provides for a color stable antimicrobial coatings and coating systems comprising a silver ion-exchange type antimicrobial agent. In particular, coatings and coating systems having little, if any, discoloration are provided with no loss of antimicrobial efficacy.
US07645823B2 Resin composition, molded product from resin composition and method for preparing resin composition
Disclosed is a biodegradable resin composition containing at least one biodegradable organic high molecular compound, a flame retardant additive containing a phosphorus-containing compound, and a hydrolysis suppressing agent suppressing the hydrolysis of the at least one biodegradable organic high molecular compound. An aliphatic polyester resin is polylactic acid, polycaprolactone, polyhydroxy lactic acid, polyhydroxy valeric acid, polyethylene succinate, polybutylene succinate, polybutylene adipate, polymalic acid, polyesters synthesized by fermentation, or a copolymer containing at least one of them. A polysaccharide is cellulose, starch, chitin, chitosan, dextrane, a derivative of at least one of them, or a copolymer containing at least one of them.
US07645820B2 Use of zinc oxide to improve compatibility of polymer modified asphalt crosslinked with phenol aldenyde resin
In methods of preparing asphalt and elastomeric polymer compositions crosslinked with phenol aldehyde resins and sulfur, such as polymer modified asphalt (PMA), it has been discovered that the MP1 compatibility may be improved by adding certain ionic metal oxides. Suitable ionic metal salts include, but are not necessarily limited to, zinc oxide, cadmium oxide, and the like. Acceptable elastomeric polymers include, but are not necessarily limited to, styrene-butadiene copolymers. Additional sulfur-containing crosslinkers may also be used.
US07645817B2 Cement compositions comprising particulate carboxylated elastomers and associated methods
Methods of cementing comprising: providing a cement composition comprising water, a cement, and a particulate elastomer comprising a carboxy group; and allowing the cement composition to set. Cement compositions comprising water, a cement, and a particulate elastomer comprising a carboxy group.
US07645812B2 Thin film transistor and flat panel display including the same
A poly(para-phenylenevinylene) (PPV) compound for forming a buffer layer of a thin film transistor represented by where R is a C1-C20 silyl group substituted with cyclohexyl or phenyl, m is an integer from 2 to 4, and n is an integer from 1 to 3,000; a composition for forming a buffer layer of a thin film transistor that is used to form the compound represented by formula 1 and includes a halo precursor polymer, a photobase generator, and a solvent; a thin film transistor including a buffer layer which is manufactured using the PPV compound; and a flat panel display including the thin film transistor. A patterned buffer layer can be formed under an organic semiconductor layer of an organic TFT by photolithography patterning using the silicon-containing PPV precursor. Accordingly, the alignment of the organic semiconductor layer of the organic TFT can be improved, and thereby, the characteristics of the organic TFT can be improved.
US07645807B1 Production of biodiesel and a side stream of crude glycerol which is converted to methanol
Production of biodiesel from vegetable and animal oils with conversion of a by-product crude glycerol stream to methanol. The crude glycerol stream is combined with superheated steam and oxygen to produce a synthesis gas that is then passed to a methanol synthesis reaction zone to produce methanol.
US07645806B2 Methods for the preparation of superabsorbent particles containing carboxyalkyl cellulose
A method for making particles containing carboxyalkyl cellulose, comprising blending a carboxyalkyl cellulose and a galactomannan polymer or a glucomannan polymer in water to provide an aqueous solution; treating the aqueous solution with a crosslinking agent to provide a gel; drying the gel to provide a solid; comminuting the solid to provide a plurality of particles.
US07645802B2 Bupropion hydrobromide and therapeutic applications
Bupropion hydrobromide formulations as well as their use for the treatment of conditions is described.
US07645801B2 Reduced irritant enema for treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
The present invention comprises packaged enemas for the treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), having substantially pure 5-ASA as the active ingredient, with a liquid carrier medium having a material avoidance of bowel irritant substances, such as anti-oxidants for the 5-ASA active ingredient, including such sulfites as potassium metabisulfite, for example, and contained within a sealed and substantially oxygen-free barrier package, which may preferably be formed of a foil/polymer laminate, and which package contains or otherwise includes an oxygen scavenger, such as a an oxygen scavenging sachet.
US07645800B2 Prostaglandin analog compositions to treat epithelial-related conditions
The present invention relates to the formulation and delivery of prostaglandin analogs to treat epithelial-related condition. In some embodiments, the compositions of the invention are used to stimulate hair growth. In some embodiments, the compositions of the invention are used to restore hair color to depigmented hair.
US07645799B2 Substituted biaryl compounds as factor XIa inhibitors
The present invention provides compounds of Formula (I): or a stereoisomer, tautomer, pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate form thereof, wherein the variables A, L, Z, R3, and ring B are as defined herein. The compounds of Formula (I) are useful as selective inhibitors of serine protease enzymes of the coagulation cascade and/or contact activation system; for example thrombin, factor Xa, factor XIa, factor IXa, factor VIIa and/or plasma kallikrein. In particular, it relates to compounds that are selective factor XIa inhibitors. This invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising these compounds and methods of treating thromboembolic and/or inflammatory disorders using the same.
US07645798B2 N-(2-hydroxyalkanoyl)-N,N′-dialkylureas and a process for their preparation
N-(2-hydroxyalkanoyl)-N,N′-dialkylureas of general formula (1) are described A-X-(A)m  (1) where A: m=0 or m=1; when m=0, X=R′″, where R′″ is an aliphatic, cycloaliphatic, arylaliphatic radical, C1-C18; when m=1, X=—(CH2)n—, where n is an integer from 1 and 20, preferably from 2 to 6; R is chosen among H, and alkyl radicals C1-C8, possibly substituted with halogen atoms; R′ is an aliphatic, cycloaliphatic, arylaliphatic radical, C1-C18; R″ is chosen among H, aliphatic, cycloaliphatic, arylaliphatic radical, C1-C18.The preparation of said compounds is described, as well as the preparation of corresponding polymers.
US07645797B2 Amino acid conjugates providing for sustained systemic concentrations of GABA analogues
Compounds that provide for sustained systemic concentrations of GABA analogs following oral administration to animals are disclosed. Pharmaceutical compositions including, and methods using, such compounds are also disclosed.
US07645794B2 Composition and method for increasing the anabolic state of muscle cells
A nutritional supplement comprising at least a therapeutically effective amount of ethyl pyruvate and a therapeutically effective amount of at least one α-hydroxy branched-chain amino acid metabolite is provided by the present invention. The ingredients of the present nutritional supplement substantially simultaneously act to induce a anabolically-favorable state for muscle by substantially simultaneously maintaining blood and muscle physiological pH levels as well as increasing cellular concentrations of branched-chain amino acids. Both a composition and a method are provided by the present disclosure.
US07645792B2 Prodrugs of propofol, compositions and uses thereof
The present invention provides propofol prodrugs, methods of making propofol prodrugs, pharmaceutical compositions of propofol prodrugs and methods of using propofol prodrugs and pharmaceutical compositions thereof to treat or prevent diseases or disorders such as migraine headache pain and post-chemotherapy or post-operative surgery nausea and vomiting.
US07645791B2 Salicylic anilides
Novel salicylic anilides are chemical uncouplers useful e.g. for the treatment of obesity.
US07645790B2 Hydroisoindoline tachykinin receptor antagonists
The present invention is directed to certain hydroisoindoline compounds of formula I which are useful as neurokinin-1 (NK-1) receptor antagonists, and inhibitors of tachykinin and in particular substance P. The invention is also concerned with pharmaceutical formulations comprising these compounds as active ingredients and the use of the compounds and their formulations in the treatment of certain disorders, including emesis, urinary incontinence, depression, and anxiety.
US07645788B2 Tetramerous derivative of indole-3-carbinol with anti-carcinogenic activity and method of synthesis of said derivative
Use of the tetramerous derivative of indole-3-carbinol having formula I for preparing a medicinal having anti-carcinogenic activity, and method of synthesis of the tetramerous derivative having formula I, in which indole-3-carbinol is reacted with an oxidizing agent so as to cause a polymeric oxidation of indole-3-carbinol.
US07645786B2 Substituted arylpyrazoles
This invention relates to a range of 1-aryl-4-cyclopropylpyrazoles in which the cyclopropyl ring is substituted at the angular position, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts and solvates thereof, to compositions comprising such compounds, processes to their synthesis and their use as parasiticides.
US07645782B2 Thia-epothilone derivatives for the treatment of cancer
The present invention relates to new Macrocycles of formula (I) and their use for the treatment of cancer.
US07645780B2 Acetyl 2-hydroxy-1, 3-diaminoalkanes
Disclosed are compounds of the formula: where variables Z, X, R15, R2, R3, and Rc are defined herein. Compounds disclosed herein are inhibitors of the beta-secretase enzyme and are therefore useful in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and other diseases characterized by deposition of A beta peptide in a mammal.
US07645779B2 Linked biaryl compounds
Compounds, compositions and methods that are useful for the treatment of metabolic disorders, inflammatory diseases and cancer are provided herein. In particular, the invention provides compounds which modulate the expression and/or function of proteins involved in lipid metabolism, inflammation and cell proliferation. The subject compounds are linked biaryl compounds.
US07645773B2 Thiazoles as inhibitors of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase
Provided herein are compounds of the formula (I): as well as pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein the substituents are as those disclosed in the specification. These compounds, and the pharmaceutical compositions containing them, are useful for the treatment of diseases such as, for example, type II diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome.
US07645771B2 CCR5 antagonists as therapeutic agents
The present invention relates to compounds of formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable derivatives thereof, useful in the treatment of prophylazis of CCR5-related diseases and disorders, for example, in the inhibition of HIV replication, the prevention or treatment of HIV infection, and in the treatment of the resulting acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).
US07645770B2 Phenylalanine enamide derivatives
Phenylalanine enamide derivatives of formula (1) are described: wherein R1 is a group Ar1L2Ar2Alk- in which: Ar1 is an optionally substituted aromatic or heteroaromatic group; L2 is a covalent bond or a linker atom or group; Ar2 is an optionally substituted arylene or heteroarylene group; and Alk is a chain —CH2—CH(R)—, —CH═C(R)— or in which R is a carboxylic acid (—CO2H) or a derivative or biostere thereof; X is an —O— or —S— atom or —N(R2)— group in which: Rx, Ry and Rz which may be the same or different is each a hydrogen atom or an optional substituent; or Rz is an atom or group as previously defined and Rx and Ry are joined together to form an optionally substituted spiro linked cycloaliphatic or heterocycloaliphatic group; and the salts, solvates, hydrates and N-oxides thereof. The compounds are able to inhibit the binding of integrins to their ligands and are of use in the prophylaxis and treatment of immuno or inflammatory disorders or disorders involving the inappropriate growth or migration of cells.
US07645768B2 Production of polyketides and other natural products
The present invention relates to production of polyketides and other natural products and to libraries of compounds and individual novel compounds. One important area is the isolation and potential use of novel FKBP-ligand analogues and host cells that produce these compounds. The invention is particularly concerned with methods for the efficient transformation of strains that produce FKBP analogues and recombinant cells in which cloned genes or gene cassettes are expressed to generate novel compounds such as polyketide (especially rapamycin) FKBP-ligand analogues, and to processes for their preparation, and to means employed therein (e.g. nucleic acids, vectors, gene cassettes and genetically modified strains).
US07645765B2 Use of moxaverin for treating erectile dysfunction, forms of dementia or diseases associated to an arteriosclerotic occlusion
The invention relates to a drug containing an aqueous formulation of Moxaverin and at least one water-miscible solubilizer.
US07645761B2 Indoline derivatives
This invention relates to substituted indoline derivative compounds which are antagonists of the progesterone receptor, their preparation and pharmaceutical utility, particularly including contraception and treatment of benign or malignant neoplastic diseases, having the general structure: wherein R1 and R2 may be single substituents or fused to form spirocyclic rings.
US07645759B2 Non-peptide bradykinin antagonists and pharmaceutical compositions therefrom
Non-peptide compounds having activity as selective antagonists of bradykinin (BK) B2 receptor are disclosed. The compounds have the general formula (I) in which R is hydrogen or methyl; W is a single bond or an oxygen atom; n=3; X is hydrogen or a —NR1R2 amino group in which R1 and R2 can be independently hydrogen or a group which is methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, or isopropyl; Y is a —NR3R4R5 quaternary ammonium group in which R3, R4, R5 can be independently a group which is methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, isobutyl, or n-pentyl; and the enantiomers and enantiomeric mixtures thereof. Pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds and methods of using the compounds to treat patients having conditions, disorders or diseases involving activation of bradykinin B2 receptors are also disclosed.
US07645758B2 Heterocyclic compounds
Certain thienopyrrolyl and furanopyrrolyl compounds are disclosed as useful to treat or prevent disorders and conditions mediated by the histamine H4 receptor, including allergic rhinitis.
US07645750B2 Method of treating symptoms of hormonal variations
A method for treating or preventing symptoms of hormonal variation includes administering an effective amount of a receptor antagonist to a subject having one or more symptoms of hormonal variations, wherein the receptor antagonist binds to at least one selected from the group consisting of a serotonin type 2A (5-HT2A) and a dopamine type 2 (D2) receptors.
US07645748B2 Sterol/stanol phosphorylnitroderivatives and use thereof
Sterol and stanol phosphorylnitro derivatives and their use in treating or preventing cardiovascular disease, its underlying conditions and other disorders are disclosed. The disclosed compounds include a phosphate linker, at least one moiety that releases nitric oxide (NO), and a sterol or stanol moiety. Some compounds additionally include an ascorbyl moiety to make the compound more readily soluble in aqueous and non-aqueous media.
US07645745B2 Antiviral nucleosides
Compounds having the formula I wherein R1 is as herein defined are Hepatitis C virus NS5b polymerase inhibitors. Also disclosed are compositions and methods for inhibiting hepatitis replication, processes for making the compounds and synthetic intermediates used in the process
US07645742B2 Composition for enhancing cellular energy
A composition for enhancing cellular energy that includes creatine, L-arginine-α-ketoglutarate, D-ribose, L-carnitine, L-citrulline, and pyruvate. The composition is administering to a subject to enhance cellular energy, to increase relative intensity of physical activity performed by the subject, to increase endurance of the subject during the physical activity and to increase the muscle mass of the subject.
US07645740B2 Peptide sequence found in Laminin 5 for treating skin impairments
Peptide of sequence TALRIRATYGEY (SEQ ID NO: 1) present on the gamma 2 chain of Laminin 5, a pharmaceutical composition containing the peptide and to the use of the composition for treating various skin alterations. More particularly, the treatment of the alterations includes reinforcing the derma-epidermal junction and the cell-matrix and/or cell-cell adherence of epidermis and in promoting the repair of a cutaneous surface.
US07645737B2 Drug delivery system comprising an RGD-enriched gelatine
The invention concerns a cell support comprising an RGD-enriched gelatine that has a more even distribution of RGD sequences than occurring in a natural gelatine and with a minimum level of RGD sequences. More precise the percentage of RGD sequences related to the total number of amino acids is at least 0.4 and if the RGD-enriched gelatine comprises 350 amino acids or more, each stretch of 350 amino acids contains at least one RGD motif. Preferably the RGD-enriched gelatines are prepared by recombinant technology, and have a sequence that is derived from a human gelatine or collagen amino acid sequence. The invention also relates to RGD-enriched gelatines that are used for attachment to integrins. In particular The RGD-enriched gelatines of the invention are suitable for coating a cell culture support for growing anchor-dependant cell types. Further, the RGD-enriched gelatines of the invention may find use in medical applications, in particular as a coating on implant or transplant material or as a component of drug delivery systems.
US07645734B2 Compositions and methods for treating and preventing heart tissue degeneration and uses thereof
The present invention provides compositions useful for cardiac therapy comprising a cyclin-associated agent. The present invention also provides kits for use in delivering a cyclin-associated agent to cardiac cells in a subject, comprising the composition of the present invention and a catheter. The present invention additionally provides a methods for enhancing cardiac function; promoting regeneration of cardiac tissue; inducing endogenous myocardial regeneration; and preventing or treating heart failure in a subject in need thereof by augmenting cyclin in cells.
US07645728B2 Lubricant and fuel additives derived from treated amines
A composition for use as an additive for fuels or lubricants. The composition includes a reaction product of a treated amine and a compound selected from the group consisting of hydrocarbyl succinic anhydrides, Mannich adducts derived from hydrocarbyl-substituted phenols reacted with formaldehydes, ethylene-propylene copolymers grafted with ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic groups, copolymers of unsaturated acids and polyolefins, and acid or ester functionalized hydrocarbon polymers. The reaction product is oil soluble and has a number average molecular weight ranging from about 900 to about 50,000 as determined by gel permeation chromatography. The treated amine includes an aliphatic or aromatic amine containing at least one primary or secondary amino group reacted with an aliphatic or aromatic nitrile and hydrogen.
US07645722B2 Aloe derived scale inhibitor
A method is provided for inhibiting scale in a liquid hydrocarbon system, including the steps of: providing a liquid hydrocarbon system; providing an aloe-derived scale inhibitor; and mixing the aloe-derived scale inhibitor with the liquid hydrocarbon system in amounts effective to inhibit formation of scale. The scale inhibitor is aloe gel dissolved in water at a concentration of between about 5 and about 50% wt/wt, which includes polysaccharides having a hydrocarbon chain structure having carboxyl and alcohol functional groups that interact with divalent ions.
US07645720B2 Extreme environment surfactant compositions comprising hydrolysis resistant organomodified disiloxane surfactants
Compositions comprising disiloxane surfactant compositions comprising a silicone composition comprising a silicone having the formula: MM′ where M=R1R2R3SiO1/2; M′=R4R5R6SiO1/2; with R1 selected from the group consisting of branched monovalent hydrocarbon radical of from 3 to 6 carbon atoms and R7, where R7 has the formula: R8R9R10SiR12 with R8, R9, and R10 each independently selected from the group of monovalent hydrocarbon radicals having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms and monovalent aryl or alkaryl hydrocarbon radicals having from 6 to 13 carbon atoms and R12 is a divalent hydrocarbon radical having from 1 to 3 carbon atoms, R2 and R3 are each independently selected from the group of from 1 to 6 carbon atom monovalent hydrocarbon radicals or R1, with R4 an alkylpolyalkyleneoxide of the general formula: R13(C2H4O)a(C3H6O)b(C4H8O)cR14 where R13 is a divalent linear or branched hydrocarbon radical having the structure: —CH2—CH(R15)(R16)dO— where R15 is H or methyl; R16 is a divalent alkyl radical of 1 to 6 carbons where the subscript d may be 0 or 1; R14 is selected from the group consisting of H, monovalent hydrocarbon radicals of from 1 to 6 carbon atoms and acetyl where the subscripts a; b and c are zero or positive and satisfy the following relationships: 2≦a+b+c≦20 with a≧2, and R5 and R6 are each independently selected from the group of monovalent hydrocarbon radicals having from 1 to 6 carbon atoms or R4 that exhibit resistance to hydrolysis over a wide pH range.
US07645719B2 Thermal paper with security features
A thermal paper with a fluorescent security mark printed on the thermosensitive coating that is responsive to wavelengths in the range of 200 nanometers to 400 nanometers. The mark is either printed on the thermosensitive coating directly or on an optional protective top coat positioned over the thermosensitive coating. Methods of preparing the thermal paper comprise printing a solution, dispersion or emulsion of a fluorescent compound on the thermal paper by flexographic printing.
US07645718B2 Microporous crystalline material comprising a molecular sieve or zeolite having an 8-ring pore opening structure and methods of making and using same
There is disclosed a hydrothermally stable microporous crystalline material comprising a molecular sieve or zeolite having an 8-ring pore opening structure, such as SAPO-34 or aluminosilicate zeolite, able to retain a specific percentage of its surface area and micropore volume after treatment with heat and moisture, such as at least 80% of its surface area and micropore volume after exposure to temperatures of up to 900° C. in the presence of up to 10 volume percent water vapor for a time ranging from 1 to 16 hours. Methods of using the disclosed crystalline material, such as in the SCR of NOx in exhaust gas are also disclosed, as are methods of making such materials.
US07645717B2 Nano-scale DMC catalyst particles
Nano-scale DMC catalyst complexes are highly active alkylene oxide polymerization catalysts. Thy show a greatly improved ability to catalyze the formation of EO-capping onto secondary hydroxyl-terminated polyethers. The catalysts can be prepared by precipitation in the dispersed adequous phase of a water-in-oil emulsion.
US07645714B2 Crystallized glass, and method for producing crystallized glass
Provided are SiO2—Al2O3-based or Li2O—Al2O3—SiO2-based crystallized glass that solves the cause of cracking and fracture in forming it into large-size shaped articles, that has homogeneous inner quality and that may be produced stably at high efficiency; and a method for producing it. The crystallized glass contains components of SiO2 and Al2O3, wherein the crystal precipitation peak temperature width obtained in differential thermal analysis of amorphous glass, a precursor thereof, is at least 22° C. Preferably, the total amount of the TiO2 component and the ZrO2 component in the crystallized glass is within a range of from 3.0 to less than 4.3%. FIG. 1 is referred to.
US07645709B2 Methods for low temperature oxidation of a semiconductor device
Methods of fabricating an oxide layer on a semiconductor substrate are provided herein. In some embodiments, a method of forming an oxide layer on a semiconductor substrate includes placing a substrate to be oxidized on a substrate support in a vacuum chamber of a plasma reactor, the chamber having an ion generation region remote from the substrate support; introducing a process gas into the chamber, the process gas comprising at least one of hydrogen (H2) and oxygen (O2)—provided at a flow rate ratio of hydrogen (H2) to oxygen (O2) of up to about 3:1—or water vapor (H2O vapor); and generating an inductively coupled plasma in the ion generation region of the chamber to form a silicon oxide layer on the substrate.
US07645705B2 Method of fabricating a semiconductor device having a pre metal dielectric liner
A method of fabricating a semiconductor device including forming a pre metal dielectric liner over a semiconductor substrate on which a transistor is formed. The pre metal dielectric liner is sputter etched to form an unstable interface at the surface. The boron is trapped in an interface in an unstable state in a surface of the PMD liner to effectively suppress the boron penetration phenomenon to the semiconductor substrate.
US07645701B2 Silicon-on-insulator structures for through via in silicon carriers
A silicon-on-insulator (SOI) structure is provided for forming through vias in a silicon wafer carrier structure without backside lithography. The SOI structure includes the silicon wafer carrier structure bonded to a silicon substrate structure with a layer of buried oxide and a layer of nitride separating these silicon structures. Vias are formed in the silicon carrier structure and through the oxide layer to the nitride layer and the walls of the via are passivated. The vias are filled with a filler material of either polysilicon or a conductive material. The substrate structure is then etched back to the nitride layer and the nitride layer is etched back to the filler material. Where the filler material is polysilicon, the polysilicon is etched away forming an open via to the top surface of the carrier wafer structure. The via is then backfilled with conductive material.
US07645696B1 Deposition of thin continuous PVD seed layers having improved adhesion to the barrier layer
Methods of depositing thin seed layers that improve continuity of the seed layer as well as adhesion to the barrier layer are provided. According to various embodiments, the methods involve performing an etchback operation in the seed deposition chamber prior to depositing the seed layer. The etch step removes barrier layer overhang and/or oxide that has formed on the barrier layer. It some embodiments, a small deposition flux of seed atoms accompanies the sputter etch flux of argon ions, embedding metal atoms into the barrier layer. The embedded metal atoms create nucleation sites for subsequent seed layer deposition, thereby promoting continuous seed layer film growth, film stability and improved seed layer-barrier layer adhesion.
US07645690B2 Method for producing an integrated circuit having semiconductor zones with a steep doping profile
An integrated circuit and method, producing semiconductor zones with a steep doping profile is disclosed. In one embodiment, dopants are implanted in a region corresponding to the semiconductor zone to be formed and which has at least one topology process. During the subsequent laser irradiation for activating the dopants in the semiconductor zone, regions which are laterally directly adjacent to the semiconductor zone are protected against melting on account of the topology process.
US07645688B2 Method of growing non-polar m-plane nitride semiconductor
A method of growing a non-polar m-plane nitride semiconductor. A (11-23) plane sapphire substrate is prepared, and a non-polar (10-10) nitride semiconductor is grown on the sapphire substrate. The present invention can also be applied to a method for manufacturing other m-plane hexagonal semiconductors.
US07645679B2 Method for forming isolation layer in semiconductor devices
A method for forming an isolation layer for a semiconductor device is provided. The preferred method is capable of securing a gap fill margin during formation of an isolation layer. A device isolation layer formed according to a preferred method includes a trench formed in a device separation area of a semiconductor substrate; a thermal oxidation layer formed in a part of the trench; an oxidation silicon layer formed on the thermal oxidation layer; and an oxidation isolation layer formed on the oxidation silicon layer and filling the trench.
US07645678B2 Process of manufacturing a shallow trench isolation and process of treating bottom surface of the shallow trench for avoiding bubble defects
The present invention discloses a process of manufacturing an STI for avoiding bubble defects, in which, after the shallow trench is formed by etching, substance containing carbon or oxygen on the bottom of the shallow trench is removed, and then the process is continued to accomplish the STI. Alternatively, the removal of substance containing carbon or oxygen may be performed after the oxide liner and the silicon nitride liner are formed on the bottom surface of the shallow trench. The present invention also discloses a process of treating bottom surface of the shallow trench. After the bottom surface of the shallow trench is treated, the bubble defects due to the use of the silicon nitride liner can be avoided.
US07645674B2 Semiconductor device having an oxide film formed on a semiconductor substrate sidewall of an element region and on a sidewall of a gate electrode
A first isolation is formed on a semiconductor substrate, and a first element region is isolated via the first isolation. A first gate insulating film is formed on the first element region, and a first gate electrode is formed on the first gate insulating film. A second isolation is formed on the semiconductor substrate, and a second element region is isolated via the second isolation. A second gate insulating film is formed on the second element region, and a second gate electrode is formed on the second gate insulating film. A first oxide film is formed between the first isolation and the first element region. A second oxide film is formed between the second isolation and the second element region. The first isolation has a width narrower than the second isolation, and the first oxide film has a thickness thinner than the second oxide film.
US07645672B2 Mask ROM, method for fabricating the same, and method for coding the same
A mask ROM, a method for fabricating the same and a method for coding the same are disclosed. The method for forming the mask ROM maximizes packing density and integration of a device. The mask ROM includes a semiconductor substrate having a device isolation region and an active region, BN junction regions formed in predetermined portions of the active region, an insulating film, first electrode layers formed on predetermined portions of the insulating film, spacers formed at sides of the first electrode layers, and second electrode layers between the spacers.
US07645671B2 Recessed access device for a memory
Semiconductor memory devices having recessed access devices are disclosed. In some embodiments, a method of forming the recessed access device includes forming a device recess in a substrate material that extends to a first depth in the substrate that includes a gate oxide layer in the recess. The device recess may be extended to a second depth that is greater that the first depth to form an extended portion of the device recess. A field oxide layer may be provided within an interior of the device recess that extends inwardly into the interior of the device recess and into the substrate. Active regions may be formed in the substrate that abut the field oxide layer, and a gate material may be deposited into the device recess.
US07645665B2 Semiconductor device having shallow b-doped region and its manufacture
A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device has the steps of: (a) implanting boron (B) ions into a semiconductor substrate; (b) implanting fluorine (F) or nitrogen (N) ions into the semiconductor device; (c) after the steps (a) and (b) are performed, executing first annealing with a heating time of 100 msec or shorter relative to a region of the semiconductor substrate into which ions were implanted; and (d) after the step (c) is performed, executing second annealing with a heating time longer than the heating time of the first annealing, relative to the region of the semiconductor substrate into which ions were implanted. The method for manufacturing a semiconductor device is provided which can dope boron (B) shallowly and at a high concentration.
US07645663B2 Method of producing non volatile memory device
A method of forming a floating gate structure is disclosed, and includes modifying the etch chemistry of a plasma treated reactive ion etch process using an inert atom to physically damage a dielectric region. The damaged dielectric region is subsequently etched using a wet etch process.
US07645660B2 Method for manufacturing high-stability resistors, such as high ohmic poly resistors, integrated on a semiconductor substrate
A method for protecting a circuit component on a semiconductor substrate from a plasma etching or other removal process includes forming a screening layer over an auxiliary layer to conceal at least an area of the auxiliary layer that overlays at least a portion of the circuit component, such as for example a high-ohmic poly resistor. The method transfers a pattern defined by a mask onto the screening layer by selectively removing portions of the screening layer in accordance with the pattern. Portions of the auxiliary layer that are not protected by the screening layer are removed using a plasma gas selective to the auxiliary layer material, without removing the area of the auxiliary layer that overlays the portion of the circuit component, thereby protecting the circuit component from the plasma gas via the screening layer and auxiliary layer.
US07645656B2 Structure and method for making strained channel field effect transistor using sacrificial spacer
A field effect transistor (“FET”) is provided which includes a gate stack overlying a single-crystal semiconductor region of a substrate, a pair of first spacers disposed over sidewalls of said gate stack, and a pair of regions consisting essentially of a single-crystal semiconductor alloy which are disposed on opposite sides of the gate stack. Each of the semiconductor alloy regions is spaced a first distance from the gate stack. The source region and drain region of the FET are at least partly disposed in respective ones of the semiconductor alloy regions, such that the source region and the drain region are each spaced a second distance from the gate stack by a first spacer of the pair of first spacers, the second distance being different from the first distance.
US07645652B2 CMOS image sensor and method for fabricating the same
A CMOS image sensor and a method of fabricating the same are provided. The CMOS image sensor includes: a semiconductor substrate of a first conductivity type having a photodiode region and a transistor region defined therein; a gate electrode formed above the transistor region of the semiconductor substrate with a gate insulating layer interposed therebetween; a first impurity region formed of the first conductivity type in the semiconductor substrate below the gate electrode and having a higher concentration of first conductivity type ions than the semiconductor substrate; and a second impurity region formed of a second conductivity type in the photodiode region of the semiconductor substrate.
US07645651B2 LDMOS with channel stress
A method of forming a metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) device comprises defining an active area in an unstrained semiconductor layer structure, depositing a hard mask overlying the active area and a region outside of the active area, patterning the hard mask to expose the active area, selectively growing a strained semiconductor layer overlying the exposed active area, and forming a remainder of the MOS device. The active area includes a first doped region of first conductivity type and a second doped region of second conductivity type. The strained semiconductor layer provides a biaxially strained channel for the MOS device. During a portion of forming the remainder of the MOS device, dopant of the first conductivity type of the first doped region of the active area and dopant of the second conductivity type of the second doped region of the active area diffuses into overlying portions of the strained semiconductor layer to create a correspondingly doped strained semiconductor layer, thereby providing corresponding doping for the biaxially strained channel.
US07645650B2 Double gated transistor and method of fabrication
A method for forming a transistor. A semiconductor substrate is provided. The semiconductor substrate is patterned to provide a first body edge. A first gate structure of a first fermi level is provided adjacent the first body edge. The semiconductor substrate is patterned to provide a second body edge. The first and second body edges of the semiconductor substrate define a transistor body. A second gate structure of a second fermi level is provided adjacent the second body edge. A substantially uniform dopant concentration density is formed throughout the transistor body.
US07645645B2 Electrically programmable fuse structures with terminal portions residing at different heights, and methods of fabrication thereof
Electrically programmable fuse structures for an integrated circuit and methods of fabrication thereof are presented, wherein the electrically programmable fuse has a first terminal portion and a second terminal portion interconnected by a fuse element. The first terminal portion and the second terminal portion reside at different heights relative to a supporting surface of the fuse structure, and the interconnecting fuse element transitions between the different heights of the first terminal portion and the second terminal portion. The first and second terminal portions are oriented parallel to the supporting surface, while the fuse element includes a portion oriented orthogonal to the supporting surface, and includes at least one right angle bend where transitioning from at least one of the first and second terminal portions to the orthogonal oriented portion of the fuse element.
US07645641B2 Cooling device with a preformed compliant interface
An integrated circuit package includes: a substrate; an electronic circuit located on the substrate, the electronic circuit comprising a topography of at least one level; a cooling device located over the electronic circuit; a compliant interface disposed between the electronic circuit and the cooling device, wherein the compliant interface comprises a first surface and a second surface and wherein the first surface is in thermal contact with the electronic circuit, and wherein the compliant interface is preformed from a compliant material such that the first surface substantially conforms to the topography of the electronic circuit.
US07645638B2 Stackable multi-chip package system with support structure
A stackable multi-chip package system is provided including forming an external interconnect, having a base and a tip, and a paddle; mounting a first integrated circuit die over the paddle; stacking a second integrated circuit die over the first integrated circuit die in a active side to active side configuration; connecting the first integrated circuit die and the base; connecting the second integrated circuit die and the base; and molding the first integrated circuit die, the second integrated circuit die, the paddle, and the external interconnect with the external interconnect partially exposed.
US07645633B2 Method and apparatus for applying external coating to grid array packages for increased reliability and performance
A method for coating a surface mount package is provided. The method includes applying a layer of a coating material above at least one surface of the surface mount package, applying a masking material above the layer of coating material, and removing the layer of coating material from a selected portion of the surface mount package defined by the masking material.
US07645631B2 Method of manufacturing organic EL display
There is provided a method of manufacturing an organic EL display including an insulating substrate, a power supply terminal, a plurality of pixels arrayed on the substrate and each including an organic EL element and a pixel circuit, and an organic planarizing film covering the pixel circuits and interposed between the organic EL elements and the substrate, including selecting a pixel which can be recognized as a dark spot and/or a bright spot from the pixels, and irradiating, of the pixel circuit included in the selected pixel, a portion located between the organic planarizing film and the substrate with an energy beam through the substrate to electrically disconnect the organic EL element included in the selected pixel from the power supply terminal.
US07645630B2 Manufacturing method for thin-film transistor
It is an object of the present invention to provide an organic thin-film transistor exhibiting high carrier mobility and a manufacturing method thereof. Disclosed is an organic thin-film transistor possessing a film having a contact angle against pure water of a surface of not less than 50°, wherein an organic semiconductor layer is formed on the film prepared by a CVD (chemical vapor deposition) method employing a reactive gas.
US07645625B2 Method for fine processing of substrate, method for fabrication of substrate, and light emitting device
The present invention provides a method for fine processing of a substrate, a method for fabrication of a substrate, and a light emitting device. In the method for fine processing of a substrate, after removing a single particle layer from the substrate having the single particle layer, a hole having an inner diameter smaller than a diameter of a particle and centering on a position on the substrate where each particle constructing the single particle layer has been placed is formed by etching.
US07645619B2 Magnetic random access memory device and method of forming the same
Example embodiments of the present invention disclose a semiconductor memory device and a method of forming a memory device. A semiconductor memory device may include a digit line disposed on a substrate, an intermediate insulating layer covering the digit line, a magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) pattern disposed on the intermediate insulating layer and over the digit line, the MTJ pattern including a sequentially stacked lower magnetic pattern, upper magnetic pattern, and capping pattern, wherein the capping pattern does not react with the upper magnetic pattern at a temperature above about 280° C., and a bit line connected to the capping pattern and disposed to intersect the digit line. A method of forming a semiconductor memory device may include forming a digit line on a substrate, forming an intermediate insulating layer covering the digit line, forming a magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) pattern on the intermediate insulating layer, the MTJ pattern including a sequentially stacked lower magnetic pattern, upper magnetic pattern, and capping pattern, wherein the capping pattern does not react with the upper magnetic pattern at a temperature above about 280° C., performing an annealing operation at a temperature of about 350° C. or higher, and forming a bit line connected to the capping pattern and disposed to intersect the digit line.
US07645618B2 Dry etch stop process for eliminating electrical shorting in MRAM device structures
The present invention relates generally to semiconductor fabrication and particularly to fabricating magnetic tunnel junction devices. In particular, this invention relates to a method for using the dielectric layer in tunnel junctions as an etch stop layer to eliminate electrical shorting that can result from the patterning process.
US07645616B2 Use of lipocalin-2 as a diagnostic marker and therapeutic target
Methods and compositions for identifying and treating obesity and obesity-induced metabolic disorders are provided. One aspect provides a method for the evaluation of risk and progression of glucose tolerance, insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes in mammalian subjects. The method includes measuring the concentration of circulating lipocalin-2 in a subject and comparing the measured level to lipocalin-2 to a reference level. Another aspect provides methods of treating insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes and other related complications by administering to a patient a composition that can reduce the circulating levels of lipocalin-2, for example a lipocalin-2 antagonist.
US07645615B1 Self-contained microelectrochemical bioassay platforms and methods
Methods and devices for improved chemical and biological detection assays combined well defined microstructures having independently addressable electrodes with various surface immobilization electrochemical assays. Combining known chemical detection immobilization assays, electrochemically active moieties with microstructures having independently addressable electrodes provides for vastly improved methods of detecting microorganisms, chemical compounds, and measuring membrane transport.
US07645614B2 Method of immobilizing compound on solid phase support
The present invention provides a method of analyzing the specific interaction between a molecule to be analyzed and a molecule that specifically interacts with the former molecule on a solid phase using a molecule-immobilized solid phase support mixture prepared by binding the subject molecule to the solid phase support without specifying the binding position on the molecule side, particularly a method wherein the immobilization is conducted via a spacer introduced to the molecule without specifying the binding position on the molecule side, which method makes it possible to identify and select only a molecule that exhibits a specific interaction with a molecule to be analyzed, without an investigation of structure-activity correlation, which has conventionally been essential, and hence enables an analysis of the interaction between these molecules.
US07645613B2 Mass spectrometry techniques for determining the status of sepsis in an individual
Mass spectrometry techniques for determining the status of sepsis in an individual are provided. A biomarker profile resolved from a biological sample, taken from the individual, using a mass spectrometry technique is compared to a reference biomarker profile. A single such comparison classifies the individual as belonging to or not belonging to a reference population. The individual's biomarker profile and the reference biomarker profile comprise a plurality of ions each having a mass-to-charge ratio of about 100 Daltons to about 1000 Daltons. The plurality of ions can be detected by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry in positive mode. The comparison uses a decision rule, such as a classification tree, that determines the status of sepsis in the individual without requiring knowledge of the identity of the biomarkers in the biomarker profile from the individual and without requiring knowledge of the identity of the biomarkers in the reference biomarker profile.
US07645610B2 Hepatocyte precursor cell lines
The present invention is directed to methods for readily generating hepatocyte precursor cell lines that retain hepatocyte-specific functions after extensive in vitro culturing. The methods comprise isolating and culturing hepatocyte precursor cell lines under permissive culture conditions that suppress asymmetric cell kinetics and allow exponential growth of the precursor cells, followed by transferring the hepatocyte precursor cell lines to non-permissive culture conditions that allow expression of asymmetric cell kinetics and induce expression of hepatocyte-specific characteristics.
US07645609B2 Method for controlling sialylation of proteins produced by mammalian cells
The invention provides media and methods for culturing mammalian cells whereby the sialylation of a protein produced by the cells is increased. The medium can contain N-acetylmannosamine and, optionally, galactose. The medium may also comprise fructose and mannose. Alternatively, the medium can contain galactose and fructose and, optionally, can also comprise mannose and/or N-acetylmannosamine. The methods can be practiced along with other methods for culturing cells so as to increase the quantity or quality of a protein produced by the cells, including culturing the cells at a temperature below 37° C.
US07645608B2 Microorganism specimen storage, hydrating, transfer and applicator device
A device for storing, rehydrating, transferring, and streaking a stored freeze dried specimen comprises a three piece construction including a collection vial used to store a freeze dried specimen, a capsule including a reservoir with hydrating fluid retained by a frangible membrane, and an adapter fluidly linking the capsule to the collection vial. The adapter is configured to fluidly link to the capsule to the collection vial via leak-proof couplings to create a closed system of specimen, hydrating fluid, and a small quantity of trapped air. The fluid communication between the vial and the capsule is accomplished through the adapter via an internal lumen longitudinally traversing the adapter. The adapter and capsule combination can also serve as a transfer pipette once the hydration operation is complete to withdraw the specimen from the collection vial and transfer the specimen to a petri dish or other culture medium. The adapter and capsule combination is quickly detachable from the collection vial to allow an inoculating tip exposed to the specimen to be transferred conveniently to a media for culturing with minimal exposure. The inoculating tip is also capable of streaking the transferred specimen to create isolated colonies in the medium from the transferred specimen.
US07645603B2 Cells having cardiac glycoside resistance
An isolated cell having a nucleic acid construct encoding a recombinant Na+, K+-ATPase α1-subunit protein resistant to cardiac glycosides, e.g., ouabain, is disclosed. Selected amino acid substitutions in the normal human Na+, K+-ATPase α1-subunit confers resistance to cardiac glycosides. Cardiac glycoside resistant Na+, K+-ATPase α1-subunits may be useful as selection markers in gene therapy and research applications.
US07645600B2 Compositions and methods for enhanced bacterial exopolysaccharide production
The present invention provides nucleic acid sequences and variants thereof capable of modulating exopolysaccharide production in Sphingomonas, and provides methods of using such nucleic acid sequences to generate bacteria that hyper-produce exopolysaccharide in slime form.
US07645598B2 PUFA polyketide synthase systems and uses thereof
The invention generally relates to polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) polyketide synthase (PKS) systems, to homologues thereof, to isolated nucleic acid molecules and recombinant nucleic acid molecules encoding biologically active domains of such a PUFA PKS system, to genetically modified organisms comprising PUFA PKS systems, to methods of making and using such systems for the production of bioactive molecules of interest, and to novel methods for identifying new bacterial and non-bacterial microorganisms having such a PUFA PKS system.
US07645594B2 Method of preparing assay sample for discriminating bacteria by flow cytometer
A method of staining bacteria comprises: working a polymethine dye on a sample in the presence of a substance capable of reducing nitrite ions to stain bacteria in the sample. A method of detecting bacteria comprises the following steps of: (1) working a polymethine dye on a sample by a method as described above to stain bacteria in the sample, (2) introducing the thus treated sample into a detecting part of a flow cytometer and irradiating cells of the stained bacteria one by one with light to measure scattered light and fluorescent light emitted from each of the cells; and (3) discriminating the bacteria from other components in accordance with an intensity of a scattered light signal and an intensity of a fluorescent light signal or a pulse width reflecting the length of particles to count the bacteria.
US07645593B2 Kit for enumerating mammalian cell micronuclei
The present invention relates a method for the enumeration of mammalian cell micronuclei, while distinguishing micronuclei from the chromatin of dead and dying cells. The method utilizes differential staining of chromatin from dead and dying cells, to distinguish the chromatin from micronuclei and nuclei that can be detected based upon fluorescent emission and light scatter following exposure to an excitatory light source. Counting of micronuclei events relative to the number of nuclei can be used to assess the DNA-damaging potential of a chemical agent, the DNA-damaging potential of a physical agent, the effects of an agent which can modify endogenously-induced DNA damage, and the effects of an agent which can modify exogenously-induced DNA damage. Kits for practicing the invention are also disclosed.
US07645592B2 Glycoprotein VI antibodies and methods of use thereof
The present invention describes antibodies generated against platelet membrane glycoprotein VI (GPVI), methods of producing the anti-GPVI antibodies, and the use of these antibodies as research, diagnostic and immunotherapeutic agents, in particular, as diagnostic and therapeutic agents for the detection and treatment of thrombosis and other vascular diseases.
US07645581B2 Determining nucleic acid fragmentation status by coincident detection of two labeled probes
Methods for determining nucleic acid fragmentation status are provided. A nucleic acid of interest in a reaction mixture is contacted with two or more different probes complementary to sites separated by a point of potential fragmentation. The probes each comprise a detectable marker. The nucleic acid of interest is flowed into a detection region, where two or more coincident detectable marker signals from the probes are detected. Fragmentation status of the nucleic acid of interest is determined, coincident detection of signals from two or more of the different probes indicating the nucleic acid of interest is not fragmented between the probes.
US07645575B2 Genes useful for diagnosing and monitoring inflammation related disorders
Described herein is a system for monitoring gene expression for diagnosing and monitoring inflammation disorders, and for monitoring gene expression in inflammation disorders in response to a particular drug treatment regimen. This system for detecting nucleic acid expression in a body fluid uses an isolated polynucleotide to detect expression of a nucleic acid comprising a nucleotide sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO: 5; SEQ ID NO:11; SEQ ID NO:17; and SEQ ID NO: 23. These nucleic acids are differentially expressed in body fluid in an individual with a disease criterion for a disease as listed in Table 1 as compared to an individual without the disease criterion.
US07645573B2 Diagnosis of sepsis or SIRS using biomarker profiles
The early prediction or diagnosis of sepsis advantageously allows for clinical intervention before the disease rapidly progresses beyond initial stages to the more severe stages, such as severe sepsis or septic shock, which are associated with high mortality. Early prediction or diagnosis is accomplished using a molecular diagnostics approach, involving comparing an individual's profile of biomarker expression to profiles obtained from one or more control, or reference, populations, which may include a population who develops sepsis. Recognition of features in the individual's biomarker profile that are characteristic of the onset of sepsis allows a clinician to diagnose the onset of sepsis from a bodily fluid isolated at the individual at a single point in time. The necessity of monitoring the patient over a period of time is, therefore, avoided, advantageously allowing clinical intervention before the onset of serious symptoms. Further, because the biomarker expression is assayed for its profile, identification of the particular biomarkers is unnecessary. The comparison of an individual's biomarker profile to biomarker profiles of appropriate reference populations likewise can be used to diagnose SIRS in the individual.
US07645571B2 Detection of nucleic acids by type-specific hybrid capture method
Target-specific hybrid capture (TSHC) provides a nucleic acid detection method that is not only rapid and sensitive, but is also highly specific and capable of discriminating highly homologous nucleic acid target sequences. The method produces DNA/RNA hybrids which can be detected by a variety of methods.
US07645567B2 On-press development of high speed laser sensitive lithographic printing plates
A method of on-press developing a laser sensitive lithographic printing plate with ink and/or fountain solution is described. The printing member comprises on a substrate a photosensitive layer soluble or dispersible in ink and/or fountain solution and capable of hardening upon exposure to a laser. The plate is exposed with a laser and on-press developed with ink and/or fountain solution. The exposure and development are performed with the plate under lightings that contain no or substantially no radiation below a wavelength selected from 400 to 650 nm, or in the dark or substantially dark.
US07645564B2 Polymer solutions, aqueous developable thick film compositions, processes of making and electrodes formed thereof
The invention is directed to a process and more particularly, to utilizing polymer solutions to make thick film compositions. In one embodiment the process is directed to the formation of photoimageable thick film compositions for use in photo-patterning methods to make photoimageable electrodes in flat panel display applications, including plasma display panels (PDP). Polymer solutions are obtained by directly polymerizing desired monomers in a desired solvent to form a desired polymer, rather than by dissolving a pre-made polymer in a desired solvent. Other ingredients are added to the polymer solution to directly form thick film pastes, including photoimageable thick film pastes.
US07645560B1 Inkless reimageable printing paper and method
An image forming medium includes a substrate, and an imaging layer coated on or impregnated into the substrate, wherein the imaging layer includes an imaging composition including a photochromic or photochromic-thermochromic material and an infrared absorbent dissolved or dispersed in a solvent or polymeric binder; wherein the infrared absorber absorbs infrared light of a wavelength in a range from about 730 nm to about 1500 nm; and wherein the imaging composition is imageable by light of a first wavelength and erasable in a short time period by a combination of infrared radiation and light of a second wavelength and exhibits a reversible transition between a colorless and a colored state.
US07645559B2 Positive resist composition and method of forming resist pattern
A positive resist composition and method of forming a resist pattern are provided which enable formation of a resist pattern having excellent shape with reduced LWR.The positive resist composition includes a resin component (A) which exhibits increased alkali solubility under action of acid and an acid-generator component (B) which generates acid upon irradiation, the resin component (A) having a structural unit (a1) which has an acetal-type protection group, and the acid-generator component (B) including an acid generator (B1) having a cation moiety represented by general formula (b-5) shown below: wherein Ra and Rb each independently represents an alkyl group, an alkoxy group, a halogen atom or a hydroxyl group; Rc represents an aryl group or alkyl group which may or may not have a substituent; and n′ and n″ each independently represents an integer of 0 to 3.
US07645556B2 Composition for forming organic insulating film and method for forming pattern of organic insulating film using the same
A photo-patternable composition for forming an organic insulating film which includes (i) a functional group-containing monomer, (ii) an initiator generating an acid or a radical upon light irradiation, and (iii) an organic or inorganic polymer. Further disclosed is a method for forming a pattern of an organic insulating film using the composition. Since an organic insulating film can be simply patterned without involving any photoresist process, the overall procedure is simplified and eventually an organic thin film transistor with high charge carrier mobility can be fabricated by all wet processes.
US07645554B2 Electrophotographic recording medium and method of forming image
An electrophotographic recording medium including a substrate and formed on the substrate at least one image receiving layer has a thermoplastic resin, the image receiving layer containing at least one kind of unsaturated fatty acid or an unsaturated fatty acid derivative having a melting point of from about 40° C. to about 120° C.
US07645552B2 Toner compositions
Toner compositions include a non cross linked resin; a cross linked resin or gel; a wax; and a colorant. Processes for preparing a toner include mixing a non-cross linked resin and a cross-linked resin or gel in the presence of a wax, a colorant, and a coagulant to provide toner size aggregates; adding additional non-cross linked latex to the formed aggregates thereby providing a shell over the formed aggregates; heating the shell covered aggregates to form toner; and, optionally, isolating the toner.
US07645550B2 Toner, process for producing toner, and two-component developing agent
A toner or two-component developer is provided. The toner includes toner base particles obtained by mixing in an aqueous medium a first resin particle dispersion, a colorant particle dispersion, and a wax particle dispersion, aggregating the mixed dispersion to form core particles at least part of which is melted, adding a second resin particle dispersion to a core particle dispersion in which the core particles are dispersed, and fusing the second resin particles with the core particles by heating. A GPC measurement of the second resin particles shows that the number-average molecular weight (Mn2) is 9000 to 30000, the weight-average molecular weight (Mw2) is 50000 to 500000, and the ratio (Mw2/Mn2) of the weight-average molecular weight (Mw2) to the number-average molecular weight (Mn2) is 2 to 10. The wax particles include at least a first wax and a second wax. An endothermic peak temperature (melting point Tmw1) of the first wax based on a DSC method is 50° C. to 90° C. The relationship between an endothermic peak temperature (melting point Tmw2) of the second wax based on the DSC method and Tmw1 is expressed as 5+Tmw1 (° C.)≦Tmw2 (° C.)≦50+Tmw1 (° C.).
US07645548B2 Photoreceptor overcoat layer masking agent
A coating composition having a polymer resin composition containing at lest an acid catalyst and a masking agent, wherein the masking agent is selected from the group consisting of compound A, compound B, and the acylated derivatives of compound A, where compound A is given by the structural formula (I): where X represents a substituent selected from the group consisting of —OR and —NR′R″, wherein R, R′, and R″ each independently represent a hydrogen atom or a hydrocarbyl group; and compound B is given by the structural formula (II): where Y and Z independently represent —OH or —NH2.
US07645545B2 Colorant-containing curable composition, color filter and production method thereof
A colorant-containing curable composition containing a tetraazaporphyrin compound represented by formula (1), wherein rings A1, A2, A3, and A4 each independently represent a benzene ring or a pyridine ring, at least one of the rings A1, A2, A3, and A4 represents a pyridine ring, R1 and R2 each independently represent a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group provided that R1 and R2 are not hydrogen atoms at the same time, m represents an integer of 1 to 8, and n is an integer of 1 to 4.
US07645540B2 Separators for alkaline electrochemical cells
The present invention relates to a high capacity electrochemical cell having a cathode containing an oxide of copper as an active material, as well as an anode, an electrolyte, and separators for use with the cathodes of the invention in an alkaline electrochemical cell.
US07645538B1 Fill plug for electrochemical cell
The present invention is directed to any electrochemical cell casing design having an electrolyte fill aperture. The electrolyte fill aperture receives and directs the electrolyte into the casing. A fill plug has at least two components—an insert section detachably connected to a placement unit. The placement unit allows a user to properly position the insert section into the electrolyte fill aperture. Once this is done, the placement unit is detached from the insert section. The insert section in then hermetically sealed to the casing. If desired, the fill plug can be used for filling the electrolyte in the casing.
US07645534B2 Membrane electrode assembly for solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell
A polymer electrolyte membrane-electrode assembly including a proton conductive membrane having superior workability is provided. The membrane-electrode assembly for solid polymer electrolyte fuel cells includes an anode electrode, a cathode electrode, and a proton conductive membrane, the anode electrode and the cathode electrode being disposed on opposite sides of the proton conductive membrane, in which the proton conductive membrane includes a polyarylene having the constitutional unit (S) expressed by the general formula (2-2) described below and the constitutional unit (T) expressed by the general formula (2-3) described below; the ratio s of the unit (S) in the polyarylene is 50 to 95 mole %, and the ratio t of the unit (T) is 5 to 50 mole % in the polyarylene, where s+t=100 mole %.
US07645533B2 Fuel cell power plant
Water contained in cathode effluent from a cathode (1B) of the fuel cell power plant is condensed by a condenser (8) and recovered to a water tank (10). Water in the water tank (10) is supplied from a pump (17) to a humidifier (4) which humidifies hydrogen-rich gas supplied to an anode (1A) via a water passage (9B). When the power plant stops operating, a controller (30) first recovers water in the water passage (9B) to the water tank (10). Also, the freezing probability of the water passage (9B) is determined from the temperature detected by an outside air temperature sensor (31), and a wait time is set according to the freezing probability. By opening a drain valve (15) and draining residual water in the water passage (9B) after the wait time has elapsed, freezing of the water passage (9B) can be prevented with a minimum water drainage amount.
US07645532B2 Solid-oxide fuel cell system having an upstream reformate combustor
A solid-oxide fuel cell system wherein a reformate combustor is disposed in the reformate flow path between a hydrocarbon reformer and a fuel cell stack. At system start-up, reformate is partially burned within the combustor by admitting combustion air, and the partially-burned reformate is passed through the anode chambers of the stack to warm the anodes. In addition, reformate is passed through a cathode-air heat exchanger to warm combustion air entering the cathode chambers of the stack. The combustor may continue to be supplied with a low level of air during steady-state operation of the SOFC, thereby providing a moist environment within the anode chambers to prevent coking of the anodes and providing additional heat to the reformate. The combustor decouples the reformer from the stack thermodynamically, permitting the reformer and the stack each to run in its own optimal temperature range.
US07645531B2 Retaining water in a fuel cell stack for cooling and humidification during frozen startup
A fuel cell power plant (19, 19a) has a plurality of fuel cells (70, 70a, 70c) arranged in a stack (20, 20c), each fuel cell having porous, at least partially hydrophilic water transport plates (75, 81) with fuel (74) and oxidant (82) reactant gas channels, there being water channels (78, 85, 78a, 85a, 78c, 85c) exchanging water with the water transport plates. On shut down, water is retained in the water channels and water transport plates by means of either a micro vacuum pump (46), one or two valves (89, 90, 118, 120), a check valve (95, 99), capillary force in the water channels to prevent water from entering the reactant channels which, if frozen, could block flow of reactant gas upon startup.
US07645528B2 Magnetic recording media with ultra-high recording density
An AFC magnetic recording medium having a three-layered ferromagnetic structure capable of reducing noises without deteriorating thermal stability is provided in order to achieve ultra-high recording density. In one embodiment, the AFC magnetic recording medium has a magnetic recording layer formed on a substrate via an underlayer, the magnetic recording medium consisting of a first ferromagnetic layer formed on the underlayer, a second ferromagnetic layer formed on the first ferromagnetic layer via a nonmagnetic layer inducing the antiferromagnetic interaction, and a third ferromagnetic layer formed on the second ferromagnetic layer, wherein the center of gravity G of the magnetic recording medium is defined using the distance tg from the upper surface of the third ferromagnetic layer as: tg=(Mst)eff/(2MS3); when the center of gravity G is at the third ferromagnetic layer, tg=((Mst)eff/2−MS3t3)/MS2+t3; when the center of gravity G is at the second ferromagnetic layer, and when the total film thickness of the magnetic recording layer is ttotal, the value tg/ttotal is lower than about 0.33.
US07645521B2 Compositions and aqueous dispersions
An aqueous dispersion including (A) at least one base polymer selected from the group consisting of an ethylene-based co-polymer and a propylene-based co-polymer; (B) at least one polymeric stabilizing agent; and at least one filler; wherein the polymeric stabilizing agent is different from the at least one base polymer and is compatible with the at least one base polymer and the at least one filler, and wherein the dispersion has filler in the range of greater than 0 to about 600 parts per hundred parts of a combined amount of the at least one base polymer and the polymeric stabilizing agent is disclosed.
US07645520B2 Endless belt and production method thereof, intermediate transfer belt, and image forming apparatus
The present invention provides an endless belt containing a conductive agent and a polyimide resin whose imidation ratio at an outer circumference surface of the belt and that at an inner circumference surface of the belt are mutually different, and a method of producing the endless belt, an intermediate transfer belt having the endless belt, and an image forming apparatus having the endless belt.
US07645516B2 Cross-linkable siloxane urea copolymers
Organopolysiloxaneurea polymers with good melt viscosity but which effectively crosslink in the presence of moisture contain alkylalkoxysilane or alkylaminoalkylalkoxysilane groups pendant to the polymer chain. The polymers are useful as non-creeping hot melt adhesives, and for other uses as well.
US07645513B2 Cubic boron nitride/diamond composite layers
Cubic boron nitride/diamond (cBND) composite films with excellent adherence to various substrates and their fabrication method are disclosed. The cBND composite confining cBN can be prepared without any amorphous/turbostratic BN (aBN/tBN) incubation layers. The cBND composite is established on the compatibility of structural and physical properties of two superior materials: cBN on top and diamond beneath. The underlying diamond is adapted to the substrate of choice using a variety of methods which may include prescratching the substrates, bias enhanced nucleation, etching for depleting undesirable chemical elements, construction of buffer layers and gradient buffer layers for the isolation of undesirable chemical elements or/and adaptation of physical properties. The diamond nuclei are preferably formed either by bias-enhanced nucleation or by pre-scratching the substrate prior to nucleation. The cBN films in cBND composites of the present invention can grow directly on the underlaying diamond films in heteroepitaxial relationships.
US07645510B2 Provision of frames or borders around opaque flakes for covert security applications
Opaque flakes, such as pigment or bright flake used in paints and inks, have a selected shape and/or other indicia to provide a covert security feature to an object. In some embodiments the composition includes base pigment, and the opaque covert flakes match the visual characteristics of the base pigment. In another embodiment, opaque covert flakes are mixed in the carrier with base pigment at a concentration sufficient to avoid changing the appearance of the composition. In another embodiment, opaque covert flakes are mixed in a clear or tinted varnish base that can be applied over an existing security feature. Shaped opaque covert flakes are not readily detectable by causal observation, but in some embodiments are easily seen at 50× magnification. In manufacturing the flakes a sheet of embossed frames are provided having symbols or indicia within; upon removing a coating from the sheet the coating material tends to break along frame lines and the resulting flakes are substantially uniform in size.
US07645500B2 Metal alloys for the reflective or the semi-reflective layer of an optical storage medium
A silver-based alloy thin film is provided for the highly reflective or semi-reflective coating layer of optical discs. Elements that can be added to silver to produce useful silver alloys include zinc, aluminum, copper, manganese, germanium, yttrium, bismuth, scandium, and cobalt. These alloys have moderate to high reflectivity and reasonable corrosion resistance in the ambient environment.
US07645499B2 Optical information recording medium and manufacturing method thereof
The optical information recording medium of the present invention includes a plurality of information layers provided on a substrate and an optical separating layer provided between information layer adjacent to each other, and information is recorded or reproduced by irradiation of a laser beam. When an information layer that is provided closest to a laser beam incident side of the plurality of information layers is taken as a first information layer and an optical separating layer provided in contact with the first information layer is taken as a first optical separating layer, then the first information layer comprises a recording layer, a transmittance adjusting layer that adjusts a transmittance of the first information layer, and a low refractive index layer provided between the transmittance adjusting layer and the first optical separating layer.
US07645497B2 Multi-layer conductor with carbon nanotubes
The present invention is directed to an electronically conductive article comprising at least one conductive carbon nanotube layer in contact with at least one conductive layer comprising electronically conductive polymer.
US07645495B2 Method and apparatus for treating a substrate
A method for treating a surface of at least one substrate, wherein the at least one substrate is placed in a process chamber, wherein the pressure in the process chamber is relatively low, wherein a plasma is generated by at least one plasma source, wherein, during the treatment, at least one plasma source (3) and/or at least one optionally provided treatment fluid supply source is moved relative to the substrate surface. The invention further provides an apparatus for treating a surface of at least one substrate, wherein the apparatus is provided with a process chamber and at least one plasma source, wherein the at least one plasma source (3) and/or at least one optionally provided treatment fluid supply source is movably arranged.
US07645493B2 Composite wires for coating substrates and methods of use
A composite wire for producing a wear resistant and corrosion resistant coating on a substrate by thermal spraying, spray and fuse, or welding techniques are disclosed. The physical properties of the coating are particularly suited for high-temperature erosion-corrosion environments. The resultant coating exhibits good hardness, toughness, and bonding characteristics. The composite wire comprises a metallic outer sheath and an inner core containing boron carbide and chrome carbide.
US07645492B2 Plasma coating system for accommodating substrates of different shapes
A plasma coating system includes at least one coating station with a first side and a second side defining a pathway with at least one bend. The coating station also includes a first plasma arc that provides a plasma jet directed towards a substrate. The first plasma arc is positioned on either the first side or the second side of the bend.
US07645491B2 Venting assembly for dip coating apparatus and related processes
Disclosed is a venting assembly for a dip coating system, a dip coating system utilizing such venting assembly, and related method for dip coating. These aspects are particularly directed for the production of organic photoconductor layers in imaging devices, and more particularly to drum photoreceptors. The venting assembly eliminates or significantly reduces coating defects otherwise occurring in the production of drum photoreceptors. Also disclosed are the drum photoreceptors produced by this assembly, apparatus and coating process.
US07645488B2 Method for producing shaped aluminium sheets with a decorative finish
A method for producing weather- and corrosion-resistant shaped sheets consisting of aluminum or an aluminum alloy with a decorative finish in a coil coating process that comprises the following sequential steps: an aluminum strip or aluminum alloy strip is provided; optional continuous degreasing of the strip; optional electrochemical, chemical or mechanical burnishing of the optionally degreased strip; the optionally degreased and/or burnished strip is continuously pre-treated to create a pre-treated layer that is suitable for use as an adhesive base for a paint layer; the optionally degreased strip is continuously pre-treated to create a strip surface that is suitable for use as an adhesive base for a paint layer; the pre-treated strip is continuously painted with a sol-gel paint consisting of a polysiloxane to create a first protect protective layer; the first protective layer is continuously dried and cured in a continuous furnace; the sheets are produced by shaping the strip that comprises the first protective layer and cutting the sheets that are optionally to be further shaped, or by cutting the sheets out of the strip that comprises the first protective layer and shaping the cut sheets; the shaped sheets are painted with a sol-gel paint consisting of a polysiloxane to create a second protective layer and the second protective layer is dried and cured in a furnace. The shaped parts that are produced by the method are characterized by excellent weather- corrosion- and abrasion resistance.
US07645487B2 Heat treatable coated article with zinc-doped zirconium based layer(s) in coating
In certain example embodiments, a coated article includes a Zn-doped zirconium based layer before heat treatment (HT). The coated article is heat treated sufficiently to cause the Zn-doped zirconium based layer to transform into a Zn-doped zirconium oxide based layer that is scratch resistant and/or chemically durable. The doping of the layer with Zn has been found to improve scratch resistance and/or corrosion resistance.
US07645484B2 Method of forming a metal carbide or metal carbonitride film having improved adhesion
A method for forming a metal carbide or metal carbonitride film on a substrate using a vapor deposition process. The method includes comprises introducing a first process material, such as a film precursor, to the substrate followed by introducing a second process material, such as a film reducing agent, to the substrate, whereby plasma can be formed during the introduction of the second process material in order to assist reduction of the first process material on the substrate. Additionally, the temperature of the substrate is elevated to a value approximately equal to or greater than the decomposition temperature of the first process material in order to improve adhesion properties for the metal carbide or metal carbonitride film.
US07645481B2 Fabrication of low dielectric constant insulating film
The present invention relates to a method of lowering dielectric constant of an insulating film including Si, O and CH formed by a chemical vapor deposition process. A process gas containing hydrogen atoms is supplied into a reaction vessel. A microwave is introduced into the reaction vessel to supply a uniform electromagnetic wave, thereby a plasma containing a hydrogen radical is generated in the reaction vessel. The structure of the insulating film is modified by the hydrogen radical contained in the plasma irradiated to the insulating film, lowering the dielectric constant of the film. The microwave is supplied into the reaction vessel through a radial-slot antenna.
US07645480B2 Procedure for reproduction of a photographic picture in an article of glass
The invention relates to a procedure for applying pictures, preferably color pictures, in the surface of a glass article. The pictures are separated by color to make different templates for different colors, e.g. for silk screen printing, or for another method to apply the color on the glass. The colors are then fired according to a schedule of temperature sequences, to get the colors melt into the surface of the glass article to solidity on level with that surface.
US07645477B2 Method for simultaneously coating and measuring parts using at least one digital camera
An apparatus and method for simultaneously coating and measuring a part including a part support, a sprayer, a part measurer including a digital camera and a display device, all of which are positioned adjacent to the part support. The sprayer applies a coating to a section of the part while the part measurer continuously measures at least two dimensions of the section. The digital camera takes at least one picture of the entire section of the part while the part is being coated and enables a user to accurately determine the cross section of the part to the optimum finished part configuration and size and also detect defects, blemishes or coating irregularities formed on the section. The apparatus and method of the present invention significantly reduces the margin of error related to the application of coatings to parts, the number of defective parts and increases the overall efficiency.
US07645476B2 Method of loading beneficial agent to a prosthesis by fluid-jet application
An interventional device for delivery of beneficial agent to a lumen and methods of loading and manufacture of the same, which include a prosthesis loaded with beneficial agent to provide a controlled dosage concentration of beneficial agent to the lumen. The beneficial agent is loaded onto the prosthesis by a fluid-dispenser having a dispensing element capable of dispensing the beneficial agent in discrete droplets, each droplet having a controlled trajectory. The method of loading beneficial agent includes dispensing beneficial agent in a raster format and/or an off-axis format along a dispensing path.
US07645472B2 Method for recycling liquids for treating food
A return liquid containing particles resulting from treating food is treated to reduce the size of the particles and recycled for further food treatment. Embodiments include injecting a solution into a body of meat, recovering a return solution containing particulate material resulting from injecting the body of meat, optionally reducing the temperature of the return solution, mechanically reducing the particle size of the particulate material in the return solution to form a reduced return solution, conveying the reduced return solution to a holding tank and recycling the reduced return solution for injection into a body of meat. Embodiments also include a system for recycling a food treating liquid including a mechanical milling device, an optional chilling device, and a holding tank including first, second and third sections, a first weir separating the first and second sections, and a second weir separating the second and third sections, wherein the second weir extends higher than the first weir.
US07645471B2 Processes for coating an animal feed to obtain coated animal feed products
A process of coating an animal feed to obtain a coated animal feed product is provided. The process includes the step of applying a first coating to the animal feed, wherein the first coating comprises at least 20% by weight of sugar selected from the group consisting of monosaccharide, disaccharide, and any combination thereof in any proportion. The process also includes the step of applying a second coating to the animal feed, wherein the second coating comprises at least 20% by weight of phospholipid.
US07645467B2 Process for preparing a food grade plant jelly with no petroleum or animal based products
The present invention provides a method for the preparation of a plant jelly in the form of a jelly-like product wherein selected phospholipids (for example, PC, PE and lyso-PC/PE) play an important role in jellifying the mixture. The plant jelly has a plant hard fat blend and an oil blend in which the plant hard fat blend is made up of about 10-20% of a fat with a melting point of 30-40° C. and about 4-10% of a vegetable fat, and in which the oil blend is made up of about 1-3.5% phospholipids and about 70-80% liquid oil.
US07645466B2 Methods for deriving, isolating, and/or extracting amino acid compositions from Fenugreek seed
The present invention is directed to novel compositions of bio-active compounds comprising 4-hydroxyisoleucine and one or more compounds selected from the group of amino acids, alkaloids, glycosides, volatile oils, saponins, sapogenins, mannans, flavonoids, fatty acids, vitamins and provitamins, minerals, and carbohydrates. Preferably, the novel compositions of bio-active compounds include 4-hydroxyisoleucine and one or more amino acids selected from the group consisting of arginine, aspartate, threonine, serine, glutamate, proline, glycine, alanine, cysteine, valine, methionine, isoleucine, leucine, tryptophan, phenylalanine, omithine, proline, lysine, histidine, and gamma-aminobutyrate. The composition of bio-active compounds preferably include between about ten percent and about seventy percent of 4-hydroxyisoleucine and between about twenty percent and about forty percent of other amino acids. The bio-active compounds of the novel composition of the present invention may be derived, isolated, and/or extracted from Fenugreek seeds.
US07645465B2 Method of preparing a pharmaceutical composition comprising fermented ginseng
A process for preparing a processed ginseng extract with enhanced pharmacological effects due to subsequent treatment is disclosed. The subsequent treatment includes an acid-treatment of ginseng and a bio-converting treatment, such as a lactic acid bacterial fermenting and an intestinal bacterial fermenting process.
US07645460B2 Dosage forms of risedronate
Oral dosage forms of a risedronate comprised of a safe and effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition comprising risedronate, a chelating agent, and, means for effecting delayed release of the risedronate and the chelating agent in the small intestine provide immediate release of the pharmaceutical composition to the small intestine of the mammal subject and pharmaceutically effective absorption of the bisphosphonate with or without food or beverages. The present invention substantially alleviates the interaction between risedronate and food or beverages, which interaction results in the bisphosphonate active ingredient not being available for absorption. The resulting oral dosage form may thus be taken with or without food. Further, the present invention effects delivery of risedronate and the chelating agent to the small intestine, substantially alleviating the upper GI irritation associated with bisphosphonate therapies. These benefits simplify previously complex treatment regimens and can lead to increased patient compliance with bisphosphonate therapies.
US07645459B2 Dosage forms of bisphosphonates
Oral dosage forms of a bisphosphonate comprised of a safe and effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition comprising a bisphosphonate, a chelating agent, and, means for effecting delayed release of the bisphosphonate and the chelating agent in the lower gastrointestinal tract provide delivery of the pharmaceutical composition to the lower gastrointestinal tract of the mammal subject and pharmaceutically effective absorption of the bisphosphonate with or without food or beverages. The present invention substantially alleviates the interaction between bisphosphonates and food or beverages, which interaction results in the bisphosphonate active ingredient not being available for absorption. The resulting oral dosage form may thus be taken with or without food. Further, the present invention effects delivery of the bisphosphonate and the chelating agent to the lower GI tract, substantially alleviating the upper GI irritation associated with bisphosphonate therapies. These benefits simplify previously complex treatment regimens and can lead to increased patient compliance with bisphosphonate therapies.
US07645456B2 Vaccinia virus strains
The invention provides attenuated vaccinia virus vaccines that can be used in methods to prevent or treat small pox in patients, as well as methods of obtaining such vaccines.
US07645448B2 Class of therapeutic protein based molecules
The present invention provides new compositions and methods for preventing and treating pathogen infection. In particular, the present invention provides compounds having an anchoring domain that anchors the compound to the surface of a target cell, and a therapeutic domain that can act extracellularly to prevent infection of a target cell by a pathogen, such as a virus. The present invention also comprises therapeutic compositions having sialidase activity, including protein-based compounds having sialidase catalytic domains. Compounds of the invention can be used for treating or preventing pathogen infection, and for treating and reducing allergic and inflammatory responses. The invention also provides compositions and methods for enhancing transduction of target cells by recombinant viruses. Such compositions and methods can be used in gene therapy.
US07645446B2 Glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) based delivery system
The invention provide methods and compositions for localized delivery of a vector comprising a therapeutic agent to a specific region of the brain that is overstimulated in neurodegenerative diseases. In particular, the invention provides methods and compositions used to deliver an adeno-associated virus vector (AAV) comprising a nucleotide sequence encoding glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) to cells in the subthalmic nucleus of the basal ganglia, mesaphilia and thalamus.
US07645433B2 Optimization of reflux accumulator start-up in amine regeneration system
A system for optimizing start-up of an amine regeneration system comprising a rich/lean heat exchanger, a still, a reflux condenser, a reflux accumulator, a pump, a reboiler, and a reflux accumulator fill line assembly.
US07645429B2 Jacket of a steam sterilizer chamber
A jacket of a steam sterilizer embedding a sterilization chamber (3) consisting of two separated and independent each other parts of which a heating part (1) of the jacket embeds the sterilization chamber (3) while a filling part (2) of the jacket is advantageously arranged in the bottom part of the sterilization chamber (3), said parts form the integral unit. Both the outlet of a first steam filling valve (4) and the inlet of a first pressure sensor (5) enter the heating part (1), and both the outlet of a steam filling valve (6) and the inlet of a second pressure sensor (7) and the inlet of a third steam filling valve (8) enter the sterilizing chamber (3) into which both the outlet of the third steam filling valve (8) and the inlet of a third pressure sensor (9) enter, enter the area of the filling part (2).
US07645426B2 Sandwich hybrid mounting mat
Multilayer mats, pollution control devices containing the multilayer mats, and methods of making the multilayer mats are described. The multilayer mats include an intumescent layer sandwiched between two non-intumescent layers. The non-intumescent layers contain inorganic fibers and have a larger area than the intumescent layer.
US07645424B2 Reagent cuvette
A reagent cuvette has a first chamber with an inspection part and a socket, and a second chamber. The socket has four spikes at its base. Both chambers are sealed with a membrane. At the point-of-care the foil membrane of the first chamber is peeled away by the therapist (typically general practitioner doctor). A sample, such as blood, is added to the chamber using a pipette or other device to provide a verifiable quantity of sample. This provides a mixture of a buffer reagent supplied in the chamber and the sample injected into the inspection chamber at the point of care. The chamber is then inserted into the socket by gently pressing it down so that its foil membrane is broken by the spikes. This causes the starter reagent to drop down from within the second chamber into the inspection part of the first chamber. The inspection part is then inserted into an optical inspection instrument for analysis of the two reagents and the sample mixed together.
US07645419B2 Killing microorganisms
Described are a method of killing microorganisms in aqueous industrial systems or products for industrial applications based on water by adding from 0.001 to 5% by weight of a water-soluble or water-dispersible polymer containing from 30 to 100 mol % of styrenesulfonic acid, from 0 to 40 mol % of an N-vinyllactam and/or N-vinylamine, and from 0 to 30 mol % of further free-radically polymerizable monomers as biocidal additive, and a method of protecting articles by applying an antimicrobial aqueous composition comprising such an additive.
US07645412B2 Sealing device
A sliding portion between a seal lip (7) and the circumference of a shaft (3) is made of a sliding face (10) so that the facial pressure at the initial action time can be lowered to suppress the proceeding of the wear of the seal lip (7) thereby to elongate the lifetime of a sealing device (1). Moreover, screw ridges (12) are formed from an atmospheric side slope (11) to a sliding face (10) so that satisfactory sealing properties can be exhibited initially and endurably for a long time.
US07645410B2 Thermoplastic adhesive preform for heat sink attachment
Curved surfaces of a preform of thermoplastic adhesive provide improved regulation of heating and exclusion of gas as surfaces to be bonded are heated and pressed against the thermoplastic adhesive preform. Particulate or filamentary materials can be added to the thermoplastic adhesive for adjustment of coefficient of thermal expansion or further increase of heat transfer through the adhesive or both. The preform is preferably fabricated by molding, preferably in combination with die-cutting of a preform of desired volume from a web of approximately the same thickness as the completed bond.
US07645405B2 Composite sheet with visible filler and manufacturing method
A solid surface sheet includes visible, elongated, shredded cuttings uniformly distributed throughout a matrix wherein the cuttings and the matrix have substantially the same specific weight and wherein a majority of the cuttings are substantially elongated. Related methods are also disclosed including shredding a first mix while in a gel state, curing the cuttings, sorting by size, and using as a filler in a base material to form a blend having a unique appearance and high internal strength. The preferred material is polyester or acrylic. The solid surface sheet can be used as a countertop, floor or wall panel, furniture, and in similar applications.
US07645402B2 Dispersant for dispersing nanoparticles in an epoxy resin, method for dispersing nanoparticles using the same, and nanoparticle-containing thin film comprising the same
Disclosed herein are a dispersant for dispersing nanoparticles that are surface-bound with capping ligands in a polymer matrix having an epoxide group, a method for dispersing the nanoparticles using the dispersant, and a nanoparticle-containing thin film including the dispersant.
US07645389B2 Process and compositions for the purification of water
Process for water purification and for the separation of beneficial materials that are obtained from an aqueous solution, comprising determining a turbidity index and adding to the water or to said solution a composition comprising one or more natural or mixtures of natural substances, chosen from the group consisting of substances having a cationic molecular charge and substances having an anionic molecular charge, in an amount determined as a function of said turbidity index, thereby, allowing water purification and the aggregation of said beneficial materials.
US07645388B2 Flow rate control
A liquid sample is prepared at a preparation site and then processed, e.g. in an HPLC column. The sample is prepared and conveyed to the device at a flow rate which is substantially less than the flow rate through the device. The different flow rates are preferably provided by variable rate working fluid supplies which drive the sample from the preparation site and through the device.
US07645386B2 Method of producing pure halide salts of alkaline and/or alkaline earth metal resulting from hydrolytic treatment of halogenous organic waste material
Pure halogen salts of alkaline and/or alkaline earth metals or a mixture thereof are prepared by (I) hydrolytically heating a suspension of 1 part by weight of a halogenic, organic waste material in a comminuted state in 1-10 parts by weight of an aqueous medium in the presence of a base to a temperature ranging from 200-300° C. at a pressure sufficient to maintain the water in a liquid state for a period of time sufficient to convert substantially all the organically bound halogen present to inorganic halides, and (II) separating the hydrolysate obtained in step (I) into a solid hydrolysate fraction and a liquid hydrolysate fraction, (III) neutralizing the liquid hydrolysate with hydrohalogenic acid, (IV) adding a flocculent to the neutralized hydrolysate; (V) separating the material from step (IV) into a solid containing fraction and an aqueous solution; and (VI) nanofiltering the aqueous solution to obtain a retentate and a permeate, wherein the permeate is further treated to obtain the pure salts.
US07645381B2 Water dispenser and filter cartridge for use therein
A water dispenser including a water inlet adapted to receive water from a water supply, a water filter operative to filter water received from the water supply via the water inlet, a water outlet operative to provide filtered water received from the water filter, a water spill collector and a pivotably mounted drainage-equipped water container support having a first operative orientation underlying the water outlet and defining a downwardly inclined water spill drainage pathway communicating with the water spill collector and a second, non-operative, orientation not underlying the water outlet.
US07645380B2 Microporous diffusion apparatus
Apparatuses for removal of volatile organic compounds in a soil formation include a microporous diffuser for injecting air and gaseous ozone as bubbles into water in the soil formation. The gaseous ozone is present at concentrations to effect removal of volatile organic compounds by the gaseous ozone reacting with the volatile organic compound(s). Injection of air and gaseous ozone is controlled by a timer to allow separation of bubbles by size. In various embodiments, a plurality of microporous diffusers may be controlled by a single timer or each of the plurality of microporous diffusers may be controlled by one of a plurality of timers.
US07645378B2 Environmentally-neutral processing with condensed phase cryogenic fluids
Systems, methods and apparatus are provided for utilizing a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid for the purpose of remediation and retrieval of, e.g., spilled crude oil and other “oil spill”-related products from marine/aquatic and terrestrial environments. In some implementations, systems and apparatus are provided for applying a substantially condensed phase cryogenic fluid to a volume of spilled oil, and further having structure for collecting the spilled oil. Some implementations are environmentally-neutral. Substances other than oil may be remediated as well.
US07645376B2 Selective hydrogenation process employing a sulphurized catalyst
A process for jointly carrying out selective hydrogenation of polyunsaturated compounds into mono unsaturated compounds contained in gasolines, and for transforming light sulphur-containing compounds into heavier compounds by reaction with unsaturated compounds, said process employing a supported catalyst comprising at least one metal from group VIB and at least one non-noble metal from group VIII used in the sulphurized form deposited on a support and having a specific composition and comprising bringing the feed into contact with the catalyst at a temperature in the range of 80° C. to 220° C. at a liquid hourly space velocity in the range of 1 h−1 to 10 h−1 and at a pressure in the range of 0.5 to 5 MPa.
US07645375B2 Delayed coking process for producing free-flowing coke using low molecular weight aromatic additives
A delayed coking process for making substantially free-flowing coke, preferably shot coke. A coker feedstock, such as a vacuum residuum, is heated in a heating zone to coking temperatures then conducted to a coking zone wherein volatiles are collected overhead and coke is formed. A low molecular weight additive is added to the feedstock prior to it being heated in the heating zone, prior to its being conducted to the coking zone, or both.
US07645374B2 Method for determination of analyte concentrations and related apparatus
A method is provided for determining analyte concentrations, for example glucose concentrations, that utilizes a dynamic determination of the appropriate time for making a glucose measurement, for example when a current versus time curve substantially conforms to a Cottrell decay, or when the current is established in a plateau region. Dynamic determination of the time to take the measurement allows each strip to operate in the shortest appropriate time frame, thereby avoiding using an average measurement time that may be longer than necessary for some strips and too short for others.
US07645373B2 System and method for coding information on a biosensor test strip
The present invention provides a test strip for measuring a concentration of an analyte of interest in a biological fluid, wherein the test strip may be encoded with information that can be read by a test meter into which the test strip is inserted.
US07645372B2 Method for removing thallium from a zinc-containing solution
This invention relates to a method for removing thallium from a zinc-containing solution. In particular, the method relates to the purification with metallic zinc powder of a solution going to the electrolytic production of zinc. In this method, thallium is removed by means of a lead compound in the solution purification stage, either during the final purification stage or in a purification stage in which cadmium is precipitated.
US07645369B2 Separation method and device for protein mixtures
A separation device and a separation method for biomolecular sample material and in particular protein mixtures. For this purpose a separation element 10 for the two-dimensional and preferable electrophoretic separation of components of the sample material is provided in area 30 of a separation plane. According to the invention it is proposed that the separation element 10 has a channel or transfer structure 14 for the locally resolved discharge of separated sample components in a transport direction that is at right angles to the separation plane onto a support surface 16 that is preferably suitable for mass spectroscopic analyses.
US07645361B2 Composite co-structured or co-adsorbed, mineral or organic filler or pigment compounds and the use thereof
Composite compounds of co-structured or co-adsorbed organic or mineral fillers or pigments containing at least two organic or mineral fillers or pigments of a different nature and the use thereof in the paper industry for manufacturing paper, filling or coating or for any other surface treatment of the paper as well as wood or metal or plastic or cement surface treatment compounds in the fields of aqueous and non-aqueous paints and plastics materials.Coating colors, uncoated filling compound and sheets of base paper for coating containing them.
US07645347B2 Mobile chemical mixing and injection unit and method for using the same
A mobile chemical mixing and injection unit adapted for use during the extraction of an oil/water/sand slurry from an oil field storage tank wherein said tank has a body of accumulated sand therein. The unit comprises a motorized truck body having a flat bed with a water storage tank and two mixing tanks mounted thereto. A high pressure injection pump pumps water from the water storage tank to the oil field storage tank and creates a slurry. The slurry is pumped to an adjacent settlement tank hopper where the oil, water and sand will stratify. An effective amount of a flocculating agent, coagulating and surfactant are mixed in each of the water filled mixing tanks and then pumped into the slurry to facilitate separation of oil, sand and water. The high pressure injection water and the water for the mixing tanks are replenished by pumping water from the settlement tank hopper thereby ensuring a continuous process until the field storage tank is cleaned.
US07645346B2 Pipeline cleaning apparatus
A cleaning apparatus useful for cleaning the interior of a pipeline contains: (A) a platform of a dimension sufficient to be inserted through an opening in the pipeline, the platform containing one or more portions; (B) a fluid interrupter having one or more parts to provide a surface to contact fluid flow and thereby interrupt fluid flow, the fluid interrupter constructed and arranged to be attached to the platform; a downstream side of the fluid interrupter being supported by members connected to the platform to dispose the fluid interrupter against fluid flow; (C) runners attached to the underside of the platform to contact an inner diameter of the pipeline; whereby the supported fluid interrupter, platform and runners redirect fluid flow between an underside of the platform and an inner surface of the pipeline; and (D) a device located downstream of the fluid interrupter to constrict the volume of the redirected fluid and increase its flow rate; whereby fluid flow is increased to move solid waste in the pipeline; and method for utilization of the cleaning apparatus to assist in relocation of solids in a pipeline for extraction therefrom, such as sewer lines or storm drains. The apparatus may further have opposing support members on an upper face of the platform; a rudder to orient disposition of the apparatus; one or more ballasts to correct any listing of the apparatus during use; and/or one or more seals or skirts that help the sled better form to the pipe.
US07645344B2 Method of cleaning semiconductor surfaces
Devices and methods of cleaning are described. The methods, and devices formed by the methods have a number of advantages. Embodiments are shown that include cleaning using a supercritical fluid. Advantages include a combination of both chemical and mechanical removal abilities from the supercritical fluid. Mechanical energy for cleaning is transmitted in a homogenous manner throughout a carrier fluid. The mechanical energy provided in methods shown also can also be used with delicate surface features.
US07645340B2 Vapor phase growth method for A1-containing III-V group compound semiconductor, and method and device for producing A1-containing III-V group compound semiconductor
A method for growing a crystal of an Al-containing III-V group compound semiconductor by the conventional HVPE method, characterized in that it comprises a step of reacting Al with hydrogen halide at a temperature of 700° C. or lower to form a halide of Al. The method has allowed the suppression of the formation of aluminum chloride (AlCl) or aluminum bromide (AlBr) reacting violently with quartz, which is the material of a reaction vessel for the growth, resulting in the achievement of the vapor phase growth of an Al-containing III-V group compound semiconductor at a rate of 100 microns/hr or more, which has lead to the mass-production of a substrate and a semiconductor element having satisfactory resistance to adverse environment.
US07645339B2 Silicon-containing layer deposition with silicon compounds
Embodiments of the invention relate to methods for depositing silicon-containing materials on a substrate. In one example, a method for selectively and epitaxially depositing a silicon-containing material is provided which includes positioning and heating a substrate containing a crystalline surface and a non-crystalline surface within a process chamber, exposing the substrate to a process gas containing neopentasilane, and depositing an epitaxial layer on the crystalline surface. In another example, a method for blanket depositing a silicon-containing material is provide which includes positioning and heating a substrate containing a crystalline surface and feature surfaces within a process chamber and exposing the substrate to a process gas containing neopentasilane and a carbon source to deposit a silicon carbide blanket layer across the crystalline surface and the feature surfaces. Generally, the silicon carbide blanket layer contains a silicon carbide epitaxial layer selectively deposited on the crystalline surface.
US07645337B2 Systems and methods for creating crystallographic-orientation controlled poly-silicon films
In accordance with one aspect, the present invention provides a method for providing polycrystalline films having a controlled microstructure as well as a crystallographic texture. The methods provide elongated grains or single-crystal islands of a specified crystallographic orientation. In particular, a method of processing a film on a substrate includes generating a textured film having crystal grains oriented predominantly in one preferred crystallographic orientation; and then generating a microstructure using sequential lateral solidification crystallization that provides a location-controlled growth of the grains orientated in the preferred crystallographic orientation.
US07645331B2 Heat transfer fluid compositions for cooling systems containing magnesium or magnesium alloys
In one embodiment, a corrosion inhibiting composition is formed by combining: (a) an inorganic phosphate; (b) a water soluble polyelectrolyte polymer dispersant; (c) a tri or tetracarboxylic acid; and (d) at least one additional component comprising at least one of a C4-C22 aliphatic or aromatic mono- or dicarboxylic acid, a silicate and at least one of a silicone or a silicate stabilizing siloxane compound, and mixtures thereof. Also disclosed are heat transfer fluids that include about 5% to about 99% by weight of freezing point-depressing agent; about 1% to about 95% by weight of water; and the disclosed corrosion inhibitor composition. A method of reducing corrosion in a heat transfer system containing one or more components that contain magnesium or a magnesium alloy requires that the system and the magnesium containing components be in contact with the disclosed heat transfer fluid.
US07645330B2 Gas-liquid separation apparatus
A gas-liquid separation apparatus includes a container and a separating pipe located in the container. The container includes an annular wall and two lids covering two ends of the wall. The container has a cavity surrounded by the wall and the two lids. An inlet extends through one lid and an outlet extends through the other lid. The separating pipe is disposed in the cavity of the container and in communication with the inlet and the outlet of the container. A plurality of apertures is defined in a body of the separating pipe and in communication with a space inside the separating pipe and the cavity of the container. The liquid with gas dissolved therein enters into the separating pipe via the inlet of the container. The liquid is degassed by the separating pipe. The de-gassed liquid exits the separating pipe via the outlet of the container.
US07645325B2 Oxygen production process using three-stage pressure swing adsorption plants
A process for producing oxygen by using of three-stage pressure swing adsorption plants, wherein the process is used to separate nitrogen and oxygen from a feed air stream, the product can be oxygen or nitrogen or both of them. The process utilizes three-stage pressure swing adsorption plants which are serially connected. In the first stage, carbon dioxide, water and part of nitrogen are removed and nitrogen is concentrated. In the second stage, nitrogen is further separated from the effluent intermediate gas from the adsorption step in the adsorption towers of the first stage and oxygen is concentrated to the desired concentration. In the third stage, nitrogen and argon are further separated from the effluent oxygen-enriched mixture gas from the adsorption step in the adsorption towers of the second stage and the concentration of oxygen is raised to 95V % or more.
US07645324B2 Engineered adsorbent structures for kinetic separation
Improved adsorbent sheet based parallel passage adsorbent structures for enhancing the kinetic selectivity of certain kinetic-controlled adsorption processes, such as PSA, TSA and PPSA processes, and combinations thereof, are provided. The enhancements in kinetic selectivity made possible through the implementation of the present inventive improved adsorbent structures may unexpectedly enable significant intensification of selected kinetic adsorption processes relative to attainable performance with conventional adsorbent materials in beaded or extruded form. Such process intensification enabled by the present inventive adsorbent structures may provide for increased adsorption cycle frequencies, and increased gas flow velocities within the adsorbent beds, which may increase the productivity and/or recovery of a kinetic adsorption system incorporating the inventive adsorbent structures.
US07645321B2 Method for the production of ore with green agglomerates containing a proportion of fines
A method for the production of ore comprising a proportion of fines, additives and green agglomerates optionally containing a binder, provided with an outer coating consisting of a combustible containing fine-grained carbon, such as coke. According to the method, the ore is mixed with the additives and the optionally available binder. The mixture is pelletized and the green agglomerates thus formed are coated with the combustible, whereby the combustible is introduced into an agglomeration drum. In order to enable continual production of homogeneous-quality green agglomerates, the mixture is pelletized in the agglomeration drum and the combustible is added in an area of the longitudinal extension of the agglomeration drum where the size of the green agglomerates formed in the agglomeration drum is sufficient for further processing.
US07645320B2 Extraction process
A process for extracting a precious metal from a precious metal containing source is provided comprising the steps of: —(i) contacting the precious metal-containing source with a vapor phase chloride salt; (ii) condensing the precious metal containing volatile product of step (i); and (iii) recovering the precious metal from the condensed product of step (ii).
US07645317B2 Mixed power for powder metallurgy, green compact thereof, and sintered body
The present invention relates to a mixed powder for powder metallurgy containing an iron-base powder and a carbon supply component, in which the carbon supply component contains a graphite powder and a carbon black, and in which a mixing ratio of the graphite powder to the carbon black is in the range of 25 to 85 parts by weight to 75 to 15 parts by weight; and a mixed powder for powder metallurgy containing an iron-base powder and a carbon supply component, in which the carbon supply component contains, as a main component, a carbon black having a dibutyl phthalate absorption of 60 mL/100 g or less and a nitrogen absorption specific surface area of 50 m2/g or less.The mixed powder for powder metallurgy of the invention is less in the dust generation and segregation of the carbon supply component. Additionally, when the mixed powder for powder metallurgy of the invention is used, a green compact and a sintered body excellent in the mechanical property can be produced.
US07645306B2 Removal of mercury from fluids by supported metal oxides
This invention relates to the use of a copper oxide adsorbent to remove mercury from a feed stream. When the feed stream is low in sulfur content, a sulfidation agent such as hydrogen sulfide should be added to the feed stream.
US07645302B2 Bleaching compositions
The present invention provides a laundry treatment composition comprising a transition metal compound.
US07645299B2 Intracorneal lens system having connected lenses
An in-phase intracorneal lens system that prevents substantial movement between connected lenses to provide high resolution of the eye. A first lens is adapted to be positioned on a surface of a cornea. A second lens has a substantially ring-shaped configuration and is substantially concentric with the first lens. At least one first bridge member extends from the first lens to the second lens to couple the first lens to the second lens to prevent substantial movement between the first and second lenses.
US07645297B2 Stent
Disclosed is a stent (1) representing a prosthesis for a constricted body vessel. The stent (1) includes a tubular support frame (2) composed of ring segments (3, 4, 5) which are sequentially arranged in axial direction and which are formed by segment struts (5, 6) that are continuously joined to one another in the initial state via transitions (8). Adjacent ring segments (3-5) are coupled to each other using tie bars (9, 10). In order to prevent notch stress in the segment struts (5, 6), the width thereof increases from midsection (16) in the direction of the transitions (8), wherein the segment struts (6, 7) are curved in a wave-like manner.
US07645296B2 Catheter system for protected angioplasty and stenting at a carotid bifurcation
A catheter system is described for performing protected angioplasty and stenting of a patient's carotid bifurcation. A self-expanding stent is deployed across a stenosis in the patient's carotid artery. A catheter system that includes a rapid exchange angioplasty catheter with an occlusion balloon catheter positioned through the guidewire lumen is advanced through the guiding catheter to the distal end of the stent. A releasable linking device holds the catheter system together as a unit. The occlusion balloon is inflated within the stent to occlude the carotid artery and to prevent any embolic debris from traveling downstream from the treatment site. The angioplasty balloon is inflated to dilate the stenosis and to complete the expansion of the stent. The angioplasty catheter is withdrawn and any potential embolic debris is aspirated out through the lumen of the guiding catheter. The occlusion balloon is deflated and the catheter system is withdrawn.
US07645294B2 Head-to-head connector spinal fixation system
A spinal fixation system comprising at least two bone anchors, a rod connecting the bone anchors and a connecting plate extending from a proximal surface of at least one of the bone anchors. A method of fixing vertebrae relative to each other comprising the steps of: implanting bone anchors in two adjacent vertebrae, each bone anchor having a rod receiving portion; placing a rod in the rod receiving portions, thereby connecting the bone anchors; threadably engaging set screws in the rod receiving portions of at least a portion of the bone anchors, thereby fixing the rod to the bone anchors; mating one end of a connecting plate to a proximal bearing surface of at least a portion of the bone anchors; and engaging a cap with at least a portion of the set screws, thereby fixing the connecting plate to the bone anchors.
US07645293B2 Suture anchor installation system and method
An apparatus for placement of a suture anchor having a suture connected thereto includes a handle dimensioned for engagement by the user and an elongated member connected to the handle and extending therefrom. The elongated member has an anchor mount for mounting a suture anchor. The handle includes a frame having a suture retainer adapted for retaining a suture, at least one cover releasably mounted to the frame to at least partially enclose the suture retainer and a release button mounted to the frame and movable to release the at least one cover from the frame to expose the suture portion.
US07645292B2 Vaso-occlusive devices with in-situ stiffening elements
Vaso-occlusive devices for occluding a body cavity include an internal element located within a lumen of the device. The internal element may include an active element configured to stiffen the coil in-situ made from a material that can expand to a desired size, thereby inducing a radial stress to the coil to stiffen the occlusive device. Alternatively, the active element is secured to two points on the occlusive device, and is made from a material that contracts, thereby inducing a compression to stiffen the device. The internal element may additionally include an agent carrier that comprises a bioactive material capable of eliciting a biological reaction after the device is placed in-situ. For example, the bioactive material can be a part of a composition of the agent carrier, absorbed by the agent carrier, or coated as a layer on the agent carrier.
US07645291B2 Cutting blade assembly for a microkeratome
A blade assembly that can be assembled into a microkeratome which is used to cut a cornea. The blade assembly is constructed in a manner that minimizes the tolerance of the cutting depth into the cornea. The blade assembly includes a blade holder that can be pressed onto a blade. The relative position of the blade holder can be calibrated to control the distance between a reference surface of the blade holder and the cutting edge of the blade. This distance defines the cutting depth of the blade. The blade holder is coupled to the blade with an interference fit that both secures the holder while providing for calibration of the assembly.
US07645287B2 Articulating anastomotic ring applier
A surgical instrument for applying an anastomotic ring device comprises a handle connected to an anastomotic ring deployment mechanism by a shaft. The shaft has at least one articulation joint that is capable of articulating in at least one direction to allow the surgeon to alter the angle of approach in order to compensate for disadvantageous placement of a trocar port through which the instrument is inserted. An articulation joint may comprise a ribbed member. One or more cables may be used to effect articulation of the articulation joint.
US07645286B2 Devices, systems and methods for retracting, lifting, compressing, supporting or repositioning tissues or anatomical structures
Devices, systems and methods for retracting, lifting, compressing, supporting or repositioning tissues, organs, anatomical structures, grafts or other structures within the body of human or animal subjects for the purpose of treating a diseases or disorders and/or for cosmetic or reconstructive purposes and/or for research and development purposes or other purposes.
US07645284B2 Doppler directed suturing and compression device and method
A compression and ligation device includes a pair of jaws including one or more Doppler chips oriented to send and receive Doppler signals across the jaws, to assist a practitioner in determining whether or not a uterine artery is between the jaws. A suture leader with an attached suture can be pushed through a channel on one of the jaws, through tissue behind the uterine artery, into another channel on the other jaw, and proximally out the device so that the practitioner can ligate the artery and effect hemostasis.
US07645278B2 Coagulating cutter
A coagulating cutter according to the present invention comprises: a transmitting member for transmitting energy, for treating living body tissue, to the living body tissue; an outer sheath through which the transmitting member is passed; and a grasping section supported at the tip end portion of the outer sheath so as to be capable of turning with respect to the transmitting member, which allows the living body tissue to be grasped against the transmitting member. With such an arrangement, upon turning the grasping section toward the transmitting member to be in a closed state, the faces of the transmitting member and the grasping section, which face each other, provide a contact portion, where the transmitting member and the grasping section are in contact with each other over a predetermined length, for incising the living body tissue grasped between the transmitting member and the grasping section, and a non-contact portion, where the transmitting member and the grasping section are provided with a predetermined interval on both sides of the axis extending in the direction of the predetermined length of the contact portion so as not to be in contact with each other, for coagulating the living body tissue.
US07645273B2 Vascular catheter guide wire carrier
A carrier catheter (20) for the introduction and positioning or changing of one or more guidewires (GW1, GW2, GW3) or interventional devices in a vessel V in the body of a subject. The catheter (20) includes an elongated, thin flexible body (22) having a primary lumen (24) and ancillary lumens (26, 28). Each lumen has an opening at the proximal end and an opening (30, 32, 34) at the distal end to permit a guidewire or device to extend through and exit the lumen. The openings at the distal ends of the lumens are positioned so that the respective guidewires or interventional devices can exit the lumens at different locations along the distal end of the catheter. One introduction of the device allows the deployment of any combination of multiple guidewires and interventional devices. The catheter can be used for a rapid replacement of an indwelling catheter or rapid replacement of a dedicated guidewire.
US07645271B2 Vial adaptor for regulating pressure
In certain embodiments, a vial adaptor for removing liquid contents from a vial comprises a piercing member and a bag. The bag can be contained within the piercing member such that the bag is introduced to the vial when the vial adaptor is coupled with the vial. In some embodiments, the bag expands within the vial as liquid is removed from the vial via the adaptor, thereby regulating pressure within the vial. In other embodiments, a vial comprises a bag for regulating pressure within the vial as liquid is removed therefrom. In some embodiments, a vial adaptor is coupled with the vial in order to remove the liquid. In some embodiments, as the liquid is removed from the vial via the adaptor, the bag expands within the vial, and in other embodiments, the bag contracts within the vial.
US07645269B2 Gradient wound treatment system and method
A wound therapy and tissue management system utilizes fluid differentiation. Fluid is differentiated by establishing a gradient within the system. A gradient can be established with matter or energy. Patient interfaces for establishing, maintaining and varying one or more gradients include transfer elements with first and second zones having different flow coefficients. The transfer elements exchange fluid with a patient, generally through a wound site, and with external components of the system. Osmotic solution gradients are controlled by a methodology involving the present invention for extracting solutions, which can include toxins, from patients and for introducing fluids and sumping air to wound sites.
US07645268B2 Needles and methods of using same
A needle having a shaft with a distal end defining a distal opening. The shaft has a longitudinal axis that extends through the distal opening and the distal opening has a projected area that is smaller than a cross-sectional area of a section of the shaft proximal to the distal end of the shaft. Also provided are methods of directly delivering a therapeutic agent to a target site using a Huber needle or pencil-point needle.
US07645264B2 Injection device with secondary reservoir
A method and apparatus for injecting fluid into areas having high density tissue that creates a high backpressure resistance on the injection device is disclosed. The high backpressure resistance is overcome through a mechanical advantage achieved by using a secondary reservoir having a cross-sectional area smaller than the cross-sectional area of a primary reservoir. Exemplary injection device reservoir housings may comprise a primary reservoir, a secondary reservoir, a check valve, a septum penetrating cannula, travel limits, a pen needle connecting portion, sliding seal guide ribs, a sliding seal, a pen needle assembly, a needle stop, and a patient needle.
US07645262B2 Biocompatible bonding method and electronics package suitable for implantation
The invention is directed to a method of bonding a hermetically sealed electronics package to an electrode or a flexible circuit and the resulting electronics package that is suitable for implantation in living tissue, such as for a retinal or cortical electrode array to enable restoration of sight to certain non-sighted individuals. The hermetically sealed electronics package is directly bonded to the flex circuit or electrode by electroplating a biocompatible material, such as platinum or gold, effectively forming a plated rivet-shaped connection, which bonds the flex circuit to the electronics package. The resulting electronic device is biocompatible and is suitable for long-term implantation in living tissue.
US07645261B2 Double balloon thrombectomy catheter
A catheter has a lumen for a thrombectomy device and at least two balloons of different compliancies. In one embodiment, the catheter is adapted to clear dialysis grafts. One balloon is adapted to expand a stenosis at a venous junction of a dialysis graft and another balloon is adapted to pull a stenosis at an arterial junction of a dialysis graft. A single catheter may be used to perform a dialysis thrombectomy procedure.
US07645260B2 Catheter having auxiliary lumen
The present invention relates to a surgical catheter, and more particularly, a balloon catheter having an auxiliary lumen configured to permit the advancement of a functional measurement wire to a treatment site. The auxiliary lumen communicates with a working lumen that is configured to permit the advancement of a guidewire and the functional measurement wire, so that the guidewire and functional measurement wire may selectively be advanced to the treatment site during a surgical procedure.
US07645257B2 Intravenous device and method for removing of myoglobin from circulating blood
Prevention of Acute Renal Failure following myoglobinemia in cases of rhabdomyolysis by means of trapping myoglobin released to circulation following striated muscles injury using a temporary intravenous filter, hence prophylaxis of Acute Renal Failure, which commonly follows this situation. It is directed to all cases of rhabdomyolysis especially for “In situ prevention” in cases of disasters, crush injuries, and reperfusion injury in a limb.
US07645256B2 Ultrasound handpiece
A handpiece having at least one set of piezoelectric elements polarized to produce longitudinal motion when excited at the relevant resonant frequency. The piezoelectric crystals are connected to an ultrasonic horn to which a cutting tip is attached. The horn and/or the cutting tip contains a plurality of diagonal slits or grooves. The slits or grooves produce optimized torsional movement in the cutting tip when the piezoelectric crystals are excited at a second resonant frequency.
US07645252B2 Body or plant part dressing
A dressing having a flexible sleeve shaped to accommodate a substantially cylindrical body or plant portion, the sleeve having a lining which is substantially non-adherent to the body or plant part being bandaged and having a peripheral securement means which attaches two peripheral portions to each other without those portions being circumferentially adhered to the sleeve portion.
US07645250B2 Reversible wrist and thumb support
A reversible wrist and thumb support is formed of a sleeve of resiliently stretchable material and includes an optionally detachable thumb support coupled to the sleeve. The thumb support includes a plurality of removable battens formed of a semi-rigid material and disposed along the posterior of a wearer's thumb. A resiliently deformable support pad is disposed on an underside of the splint and a removable stiffening semi-rigid batten that optionally includes padded surfaces, is disposed in a pocket on the top side of the support. The reversible wrist and thumb support may be worn on either the wearer's left or right hand, and the battens need not be removed when the reversible wrist and thumb support is turned inside-out.
US07645248B2 Wall-mounted back massager including wheels
A wall-mounted back massager adapted to allow a user to self-administer a massage is disclosed. The inventive wall-mounted back massager comprises: an elongated wall mount track vertically positioned on a wall; a vertically adjustable elongated base member slidably engaged to the wall mount track; a plurality of swivel head assemblies attached in series along the elongated base member; and at least first and second pairs of spaced apart and axially aligned wheels rotatably attached to each of the plurality of swivel head assemblies by respective first and second wheel axles. Each swivel head assembly is pivotably between first and second swivel head positions. In this configuration, vertical movement of a person's back due to bending and straightening of their knees effects movement of the swivel head assemblies and attached wheels relative to the person's back, thereby allowing the person to enjoy a self-administered massage.
US07645245B2 Endoscopic lithotripsy apparatus and lithotripsy method of treatment object using the apparatus
An endoscopic lithotripsy probe apparatus includes a probe, ultrasonic-vibration source, mechanical shock generation source, and switch-mechanism. The ultrasonic-vibration source is detachably attached to the probe to transmit an ultrasonic-vibration to the probe in a state in which the proximal end of the probe is connected to the ultrasonic-vibration source. The mechanical shock generation source, which is disposed on the side of the proximal end of the probe, applies a force to the ultrasonic-vibration source in a state in which the ultrasonic-vibration source is detached from the proximal end of the probe, and allows the ultrasonic-vibration source to collide with the proximal end of the probe so that a mechanical shock is applied to the probe. The switch-mechanism switches a state in which the ultrasonic-vibration from the ultrasonic-vibration source is transmitted to the probe and a state in which the mechanical shock from the mechanical shock generation source is transmitted.
US07645244B2 Ultrasound systems and methods for treating ischemic limbs or tissue affected by peripheral arterial disease
A method of treating tissue within a body includes aiming an ultrasound transducer towards target tissue, and delivering ultrasound energy towards the target tissue to thereby reduce pain at the target tissue. A method of treating tissue within a body includes aiming an ultrasound transducer towards target tissue, and delivering ultrasound energy towards the target tissue to increase nitric oxide at the target tissue. An ultrasound system includes a first ultrasound transducer for emitting ultrasound energy from outside a patient, and drive circuitry coupled to the first ultrasound transducer, wherein the drive circuitry is configured to generate a drive signal at a frequency that is between 20 kHz and 100 kHz for the first ultrasound transducer.
US07645241B2 Device for sampling bodily fluids
A bodily fluid sampling device comprising a lancet which can be advanced against a skin-piercing site to produce a droplet of bodily fluid. A transport medium is positioned sufficiently close to the lancing medium to retain a droplet of bodily fluid therebetween by capillary action. One of the two mediums has hydrophobic material on its surface and the other hydrophilic. Various mechanisms are provided for relatively displacing the lancing and transport medium to move the droplet of bodily fluid away from the skin-piercing end. Furthermore, multiple lancet assemblies may be provided in a barrel or disk configuration and indexed to the displacing mechanisms for sampling a skin site.
US07645240B2 Biopsy device with variable speed cutter advance
A biopsy device having a translating and rotating cutter is disclosed. The translational speed of the cutter is varied using a variable pitch member. The variable pitch member can include a shaft having a relatively coarse threaded portion for rapid cutter advance and a relatively finer threaded portion for cutter advance during tissue severing.
US07645238B2 Regional anesthetic method and apparatus
A system and method for regional anesthesia using ultrasound to assist in locating the anesthetic needle are disclosed. One or more piezo-electric crystal transducers is placed either at the tip of the needle or near the tip of the needle on a stylet which is inserted into the lumen of the needle. The transducer(s) are pulsed with ultrasonic frequency, the reflected ultrasonic signals from structures are detected and converted into a digital signal and may be displayed in an oscilloscopic format to indicate anatomical structures forward to the needle and allow the medical professional to avoid errors and/or increase efficiency and accuracy. An array of transducers can be pulsed in a phased array fashion to generate a 2D image, or a single transducer can be pulsed to generate a 1D image.
US07645234B2 Diagnostic and intervention tools for emergency medical dispatch
A system and method assists an emergency medical dispatcher in responding to emergency calls. A computer implemented emergency medical dispatch protocol includes interrogatories for a dispatcher to ask a caller to generate an appropriate response. A diagnostic tool is provided to determine a vital sign of a patient based on a timer and caller relayed information about the patient. An intervention tool is provided to administer assistance and determine a compression rate based on a timer and caller relayed information.
US07645232B2 Access device for minimally invasive surgery
A retractor has a proximal portion comprising a first side portion having a first longitudinal edge and a second side portion having a second longitudinal edge. The first and second portions being movable relative to each other such that the first and second longitudinal edges can be positioned in close proximity to each other or spaced apart by a selected distance. A distal portion is coupled with the proximal portion. The distal portion has an outer surface and an inner surface partially defining a passage. The distal portion is capable of having a configuration when inserted within the patient wherein the cross-sectional area of the passage at a first location is greater than the cross-sectional area of the passage at a second location, wherein the first location is distal to the second location.
US07645225B2 Chronic performance control system for rotodynamic blood pumps
In a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) a rotodynamic blood pump (10) is powered by a brushless DC motor (12). A power supply (14) supplies power to the motor (12). Three feedback channels, one for each of voltage, current, and motor speed lead to a microcontroller or microprocessor (18). The three feedback waveforms are analyzed, and from these waveforms, motor input power, patient heart rate, current pump flow rate, and systemic pressure are determined. The microprocessor (18) then calculates a desired flow rate proportional to the patient heart rate. The microprocessor communicates a new power output to a commutation circuit (16), which regulates power to the motor (12). The pump (10) also includes safety checks that are prioritized over desired pump flow. These include prevention of ventricular suction, low pulsatility, minimum and maximum pump speed, minimum speed-relative pump flow, minimum absolute pump flow, minimum and maximum motor input power.
US07645215B2 Exercise device
An exercise device upon which a user generally standing upright supported by foot platforms suspended from a frame via linkages in which the linkage lengths and pivot points correspond generally to the users upper and lower legs and hip and knee joints. This device not only allows natural free and spontaneous leg movement, able to simulate such exercises as walking, jogging, running, stepping, skiing or gliding, bicycling, climbing, reverse action and various isolated leg exercises, where the exercises can be performed at random generally without the need to reconfigure the device. This device preferably includes an isolation system capable of simulating natural forces throughout the entire range of movement in the horizontal and/or vertical plane. A safety/suspension system can be provided, alone or in combination with the isolation system, to resist sudden foot movement in the same direction, yet allows a slow and controlled tilting of the linkages whereby the user may simulate uphill and downhill travel.
US07645214B2 Exercise device with treadles
An exercise device including a first monoarm treadle assembly supporting a first tread belt and a second monoarm treadle assembly supporting a second belt. The tread belt is supported on a tread deck between a front roller on each treadle assembly, and a rear roller, which may be a distinct rear roller on each treadle assembly or a single rear roller for both treadle assemblies. The monoarm structure of each treadle assembly supports a plurality of deck supports in a cantilever fashion. The treadmill deck and the belt are supported on the deck supports. Further, the treadles are coupled with one or more hydraulic resistance structures, which may also function as an interconnect structure to coordinate pivotal movement of the treadle assemblies.
US07645210B2 Control apparatus for an automatic transmission and related control method
In executing an ETC cooperative downshift operation based on a driver's intent to decelerate, this system executes an engine output increasing control (e.g. a combination of a throttle opening control and a fuel injection restoring control) for increasing the engine output irrespective of driver's accelerator operation. At the timing a reduction amount in an input shaft rotational speed Nt exceeds a predetermined value K after the ETC cooperative downshift control is started, it is presumed that the hydraulic pressure of a to-be-disengaged clutch is already reduced to a hydraulic pressure level equivalent to a predetermined transmission torque capacity that causes no undesirable acceleration or shock even if the engine output increasing control is started. And, under such assumption, the engine output increasing control is started at this timing. Accordingly, the present invention can accurately set the start timing of the engine output increasing control so as to suppress any undesirable acceleration or shock caused by the engine output increasing control.
US07645206B2 Three mode electrically-variable transmission
An electrically-variable transmission is provided with first and second motor/generators and three planetary gear sets. The planetary gear sets have continuous interconnections, and selective connections via a plurality of torque-transmitting mechanisms, that provide three forward electrically-variable modes. Preferably, the planetary gear sets are characterized by effective gear ratios such that a substantially equal maximum torque is required from each of the motor/generators during the three forward electrically-variable modes for a given torque on the input member. This allows the first and second motor/generators to be substantially equal in size.
US07645205B2 Electrically-variable transmission with two differential gear sets
An electrically-variable transmission has four motive elements, including an input member, an output member, and first and second motor/generators. The transmission also has two differential gear sets, and four selectively engagable torque-transmitting mechanisms. All members of each differential gear set have at least one of the motive elements connectable therewith. The input member and one motor/generator are both connected or connectable with the same member of one of the differential gear sets, and the output member and either of the motor/generators are both connected or connectable with the same member of the other one of the differential gear sets. The torque-transmitting mechanisms are selectively engagable in combinations of two to establish input-split and output-split electrically-variable modes of operation.
US07645204B2 Pulley assembly for maintaining constant position of a bearing outer race relative to a pulley, and method
A method for maintaining constant position of a bearing outer race relative to an axial bore of a pulley comprising providing a pulley having a central axial hub exhibiting a concentric axial bore therethrough, the concentric axial bore having an axial bore surface; providing a bearing having an outer axial race, an inner axial race, and a plurality of bearing elements rotatably positioned between the outer axial race and the inner axial race; applying at least one drop or bead of a fastening element onto an outer surface of the outer race, wherein the fastening element acts to maintain constant position of the bearing relative to the pulley; and coupling the bearing to the pulley, and a pulley having a bearing integral therewith which exhibit the characteristic of maintaining constant position of the bearing relative to the pulley are disclosed.
US07645203B2 Game ball carcass, a game ball, and methods of making same
A carcass of a soccer ball or other inflatable game ball has a bladder with a valve for introducing air into said bladder; a fabric pocket layer located outside said bladder composed of a plurality of fabric pieces sewn to form a spherical shape, with a hole for the valve, the sewing thread for sewing said fabric pieces and the sewn margin being located in the inner side of said fabric pocket, and an opening being cut for reversing and placing the bladder being located on one of the fabric pieces; and an opening-cover adhered solidly on said opening for enclosing said opening. The surface of the manufactured ball is soft, with good tactility and the performance of ball-controlling is good. At the same time because there is no sewn margin left on the out side of the fabric pocket layer, no slight unevenness will exist on the surface of the fabric pocket layer, the ball will have a substantially perfect spherical shape, and can be easily controlled by athletes during a game.
US07645202B2 Golf tee
A golf tee includes an anchoring device, which has a flat top head with a coupling portion and vertical through holes around the coupling portion and a nail body downwardly extending from the flat top head for fastening to the ground in a golf course, a receptacle member, which has a cup-like receptacle head for holding a golf ball for hitting and a shank downwardly extending from the bottom side of the cup-like receptacle head and provided with a transverse wire hole and a bottom coupling portion connectable to the coupling portion of the anchoring device, and a cord member inserted through the wire hole of the receptacle member and the through holes of the anchoring device to link the receptacle member to the anchoring device in such a manner that the cord member will not be tangled or jammed during installation of the anchoring device and the receptacle member is collectable for a repeated use.
US07645200B2 Golf ball retrieval system
A golf ball retrieval system is described, for mounting within a golf club, using as a dedicated ball retrieval device, or retrofitting to an existing golf club. The system in a first embodiment comprises a hollow shaft, an anchor member mounted within the shaft, a sliding member movable axially within the shaft, the sliding member having a bore axially therethrough, a plurality of grappling wires connected to a proximal end of the sliding member, a spring connecting the anchor member to the sliding member, a wire placed within the bore, the wire having a first end and a second end, the wire further comprising a handle at the first end, the handle protruding from the bore at the proximal end of the sliding member, the second end of the wire being attached to the spring, and a shoulder attached to the wire between the spring and the sliding member. In a second embodiment, the system comprises a hollow shaft, an anchor member mounted within the shaft, a sliding member movable axially within the shaft, a plurality of grappling wires connected to a proximal end of the sliding member, a cap movable axially within the shaft, the cap located between the sliding member and the anchor member, a spring placed in the shaft between the anchor member and the cap, and a locking assembly between the sliding member and the cap.
US07645198B2 Golf swing training device
A golf swing training device is configured to prevent lateral movement of a golfer's hips such as during the backswing, downswing and/or follow-through portions of the golfer's swing. In addition, the golf swing training device is configured to prevent reverse rotation of the golfer's hips such as during the backswing portion. The training device may comprise a seat assembly and a horizontal arm assembly. The seat assembly is configured to be mounted to the golfer's hips and defines opposing lateral seat sides. The horizontal arm assembly is coupled to the seat assembly and is configured to be pivotable about a seat pivot axis located adjacent one of the seat sides. The horizontal arm assembly is configured to prevent reverse pivoting of the seat assembly such that reverse rotation of the golfer's hips is prevented.
US07645197B2 Golf practice system
A golf practice system including a containment structure and a mechanically driven golf ball-return unit coupled to the containment structure, with a sloped portion or channel directing a struck golf ball to the return unit such that the golf ball is mechanically projected back to the golfer. A berm device for chipping practice and other uses also is disclosed.
US07645187B2 Air-conditioning duct
An air-conditioning duct is provided inside a car console box that has an ornamental portion. The duct has an air passage for conducting conditioned air from an air conditioner to the passenger compartment. The air passage is defined by a first wall portion formed by the ornamental portion, a second wall portion opposed to the first wall portion, a third wall portion located between the first and the second wall portions, and a fourth wall portion located between the first and the second wall portions. The fourth wall portion is opposed to the third wall portion. Each wall portion has an inner surface exposed to the interior of the air passage. A pair of boundary lines are defined on the inner surface of the first wall portion at boundaries between the first wall portion and the third and fourth wall portions. A dew condensation suppression portion is provided on the inner surface of the first wall portion between the pair of the boundary lines. A space is defined between the dew condensation suppression portion and each boundary line. When the thickness of the dew condensation suppression portion on the first wall portion is expressed by T (mm), and the sum of the widths of the spaces is expressed by D (mm), the thickness T and the sum D of the widths satisfy the following expression (1). T≧D+2 mm(D>0 mm)  (1)
US07645185B2 Substrate delivery mechanism
A substrate delivery mechanism comprises a top ring, a substrate loader for loading a substrate, and a pusher mechanism, wherein the substrate loader comprises a top ring guide and the pusher mechanism comprises a top ring guide lifting table, in which the top ring guide and the top ring guide lifting table together form a sealed space below the substrate held by the top ring in a condition where the substrate loader is moved up by the pusher mechanism, wherein the substrate is detached from the top ring by exhausting the sealed space while at the same time injecting a fluid from through-holes provided in a substrate holding surface of the top ring.
US07645184B2 CD repair apparatus
An apparatus for the repair and resurfacing of compact discs using a motorized, abrasive surface.
US07645181B2 Polishing state monitoring apparatus and polishing apparatus
A polishing state monitoring apparatus measures characteristic values of a surface, being polished, of a workpiece to determine the timing of a polishing end point. The polishing state monitoring apparatus includes a light-emitting unit for applying light from a light source to a surface of a workpiece being polished, a light-receiving unit for receiving reflected light from the surface of the workpiece, a spectroscope unit for dividing the reflected light received by the light-receiving unit into a plurality of light rays having respective wavelengths, and light-receiving elements for accumulating the detected light rays as electrical information. The polishing state monitoring apparatus further includes a spectral data generator for reading the electrical information accumulated by the light-receiving elements and generating spectral data of the reflected light, and a processor for calculating a predetermined characteristic value on the surface of the workpiece based on the spectral data generated by the spectral data generator.
US07645179B2 Adjustable lift system for bras
A lifting and shaping system for a bra or other garment uses lift platforms shaped to fit into the cups of the bra and formed from thin material. The lift platforms are attached to the garment toward the center of the garment. Connectors having one end attached to the lift platform and the other end attached to a slide on the shoulder strap adjust the lift of the lift platform when the slide is moved. Flexible shaping members distribute the lift of the lift platforms and maintain the natural shape of the breasts as they are lifted. Smoothing shields ease the movement of the lift platforms and connectors within the cloth confines of the breast cups. The flexible shaping members may also perform some of the functions of a smoothing shield.
US07645178B1 Virtual world toy doll system
A virtual world toy system includes a physical doll and physical props that may be used in conjunction with a virtual world unit. The virtual world unit provides a portal through which the physical doll may enter and explore a virtual world under a user's guidance and control. The physical doll and props may be played with by a user in the real world; however, the physical doll and props also may be placed into the virtual world unit where they manifest themselves in a virtual world presented by the virtual world unit. Once in the virtual world, the virtual world unit provides a virtual representation of the physical doll and props to a user. In addition, the virtual world unit provides an interface to command, assist, direct, and/or influence the virtual doll's interaction with the virtual world. Two or more virtual world units may be connected together so that multiple users may interact together within the virtual world.
US07645172B2 Connector and assembling method therefor
A connector has terminal fittings (20) with a touching section (41) to be held in contact with a mating terminal (30) and a housing (10) formed with press-in holes (14, 14A), into which the terminal fittings (20) are pressed. The terminal fittings (20) are pressingly held in the housing (10) after the touching sections (41) pass through the press-in holes (14, 14A). A part of the inner surface of each press-in hole (14, 14A) of the housing (10) corresponding to a passage area of the touching section (41) is shaped to be gradually distanced from the passage area towards an apex (62, 62A) at a widthwise middle part (65) of the passage area. Accordingly, mutual abrasion of the touching section (41) and the inner surface of the press-in hole (14, 14A) can be avoided when the touching section (41) passes through the press-in hole (14, 14A).
US07645171B2 Integrated flange seal electrical connection
Disclosed herein are a method and an apparatus for providing a high efficiency seal in an electrical connector. The seal provides an impediment to the passage of fluid at one end of the electrical connector to the environment at the other end of the electrical connector. The electrical connector may be incorporated into an over-mold that contains other components. The electrical connector achieves the highly efficient seal through a combination of a dual torturous path design, incorporation of melt ribs, and may further involve the technique of impregnation.
US07645167B2 Method and apparatus for controlling antenna connectivity as a function of antenna orientation
Methods and apparatuses presented herein control antenna connectivity for a wireless communication device as a function of rotation of a connector assembly plugged into the device, such as where an external antenna or cable includes the connector assembly. Assuming the device has a mating connector for the external antenna that changes the connections of internal and external antennas as a function of the connector mating depth, the method comprises configuring the wireless communication device and/or the external antenna with a mechanical feature that changes the mating depth between the device's and the antenna's mating connectors responsive to external antenna rotation. In one embodiment, a body portion of the external antenna retains the mating connector and includes a cam feature or other mechanical feature that engages an edge or surface of the device as the antenna is rotated, thereby pushing the antenna out from the device.
US07645160B2 Telescoping connector assembly
A telescoping connector assembly comprising a hollow rectangular bezel adapted for mounting in a patch bay panel frame. A plurality of telescoping connectors are mounted in the bezel and are adapted for relative movement thereto between a rearward position and a forward position. For this purpose, each of the telescoping connectors illustratively comprises a subframe having a pair of upper and lower runners adapted to engage complementary pairs of upper and lower slots formed in the bezel. The runners are fabricated from a flexible material, which allows the connectors to be extracted from the bezel by applying a bending force to the runners.
US07645158B2 Terminal block and test pad for an HVAC controller
An electrical terminal assembly for an HVAC device is disclosed. In one illustrative embodiment, the terminal assembly includes one or more quick-connect or screwless type terminal blocks mounted on a printed circuit board. The terminal assembly may also include one or more test pads electrically connected to the one or more quick-connect or screwless terminals via one or more traces on the printed circuit board. The one or more test pads may include a recessed portion.
US07645154B2 USB connector protective cover
A universal serial bus connector assembly for sealing a plug against the intrusion of foreign material is provided. The connector assembly includes a plug receptacle housing and a plug receptacle supporting structure attached to the plug receptacle housing. A bezel is fitted over the plug receptacle supporting structure. A sealing elastomeric membrane is positioned between the plug receptacle supporting structure and the bezel. A slit is formed in the elastomeric membrane through which the plug is inserted into the plug receptacle housing.
US07645146B2 Circuit board connector extension
A circuit board connector extension comprising a body made of plastic and able to be attached to a circuit board, with first and second groups of contacts which each have one connecting end for contacting conductor tracks on the circuit board and one plug-in end for contacting contacts of a connector piece, the connecting ends of the two groups of contacts being arranged on one and the same side of the body, whereas the plug-in ends of the first group being arranged on a side of the body difference from that where the plug-in ends of the second group are arranged.
US07645144B2 Interface card and butterfly interface transfer structure
A butterfly interface transfer structure including an interface card, a first add-in card and a second add-in card is disclosed. The interface card includes a plate, a first connector, a second connector and a spacer. The plate has a set of electrical connecting pins, a first surface and a second surface. The first connector is disposed on the first surface, and the second connector is disposed on the second surface, wherein the first connector and the second connector are respectively electrically connected to the electrical connecting pins. The spacer is disposed between the first connector and the plate. The first add-in card is coupled to the first connector, and the second add-in card is coupled to the second connector.
US07645143B2 Magnetic connector for electronic device
An electrical plug and receptacle relying on magnetic force to maintain contact are disclosed. The plug and receptacle can be used as part of a power adapter for connecting an electronic device, such as a laptop computer, to a power supply. The plug includes electrical contacts, which are preferably biased toward corresponding contacts on the receptacle. The plug and receptacle each have a magnetic element. The magnetic element on one or both of the plug and receptacle can be a magnet, which is preferably a permanent rare earth magnet although electromagnets may also be used. The magnetic element on the plug or receptacle that does not include a magnet is composed of ferromagnetic material. When the plug and receptacle are brought into proximity, the magnetic attraction between the magnet and its complement, whether another magnet or a ferromagnetic material, maintains the contacts in an electrically conductive relationship.
US07645139B1 Math teaching system
A math teaching system for teaching a student how to solve an equation includes a base panel being mountable to a support surface. A work panel is coupled to an exterior surface of the base panel. The work panel has equation indicia positioned on an outer surface of the work panel opposite of the base panel. The equation indicia are used to learn to execute and determine an answer to a base equation. Each of a plurality of number tiles has a number indicia positioned on a top surface thereof. The number indicia of each of the number tiles is equal to a single digit number. Each of the tiles is positionable on the equation indicia of the work panel.
US07645137B2 Method and apparatus for bleaching teeth
A method and apparatus for whitening teeth which allow the user to undergo dental bleaching with the mouth closed and without protruding instruments, trays or electrical wires and the like. The apparatus includes a support structure and a dental whitening composition in contact with the support structure. A light source is included in the apparatus, disposed on or in the support structure so that light emitted from the source contacts on the dental whitening composition. The apparatus has a volume ranging between 0.5-450 cm3 permitting the apparatus to fit entirely within the mouth of a user during treatment.
US07645119B2 Axial flow turbine
An axial flow turbine provided with a stage composed of a turbine nozzle and a turbine rotor blade arranged in an axial flow direction. Both end portions of a nozzle blade of the turbine nozzle are supported by a diaphragm inner ring and a diaphragm outer ring, and a flow passage is formed to have its diameter expanded from an upstream stage to a downstream stage. In such axial flow turbine, trailing edges at ends of the nozzle blade supported by the diaphragm inner ring and the diaphragm outer ring are curved as a curvature to an outlet side, and an intermediate portion between the trailing edges is formed to be straight.
US07645115B2 System, method, and apparatus for a power producing linear fluid impulse machine
A linear fluid impulse engine enables efficient conversion of the kinetic energy of large volume flows of fluid at low velocity into useful work. The linear fluid impulse engine uses symmetrically curved blades that are mounted to continuous power transmission belts that revolve on a pair of axles. The blades move in substantially linear paths on both the upstream and downstream sides of the inter-axle plane, which extends between the axes of the shafts. A linear cascade of stationary mid-plane guidevanes, located between the two sets of moving blade cascades, acts as a row of nozzles, accelerating the fluid so that it interacts with the downstream blade cascade with the proper velocity characteristics of an impulse device. Water entering the upstream blade cascade may be accelerated by stationary guidevanes to enable impulse operation.
US07645114B2 Viscous product transportation trailer
Described herein is a transport tank trailer having a tank that can be used to more completely and effectively transport, store, load and unload a viscous product, such as a viscous liquid product, or liquid with solid(s) in suspension. Materials for transport, storing, loading and unloading include both food-grade and non-food grade products. Exemplary products include chocolate, paint, wastes, and asphalt. The tank system involves: a) agitation means (e.g., vibration devices) to force viscous product to flow during unloading; b) a heat-traced closed loop venting and unloading system resulting in the elimination of opening of the manhole on the tanker, which results in the release of heat; c) use of enhanced insulating materials to reduce product solidification during product discharge; and d) reduction of thermal bridges to increase product heat retention. The invention also involves an inventive cargo tank shape that promotes viscous product discharge during unloading of the tank. The viscous product trailer can further comprise a heated make-up air system operably associated with the tank housing. The system can provide heat vented air and heated air into the tank interior containing viscous product so as to maintain tank, and consequently product, temperature.
US07645113B2 Automatic carton stacker/collator
A system for automatically forming stacks of cartons for feeding a magazine for supplying cartons to a packaging machine includes a primary support on which the stacks of cartons are formed, and a secondary support for temporarily receiving a series of the cartons thereon as a previously formed stack of cartons is removed from the primary support. The stack of cartons collected on the primary support is moved onto a transport conveyor for transport to a loader for the magazine for feeding into the packaging machine.
US07645110B2 Moving robot with arm mechanism
A moving robot includes a first arm portion is coupled to a first joint on a side portion of a main robot body. The first arm portion has concave portion with an opening. A folding mechanism is accommodated in the concave portion. In the folding mechanism, a second arm portion is connected to the first arm via a second joint portion. A third arm portion is also connected to the second arm portion via a third joint portion. The first arm portion is rotated around the first joint to orient the opening in an upper direction. The second joint portion can be slid along the concave portion to take out the folding mechanism through the opening. The third arm portion can be rotated around the third joint portion to extend the third arm portion.
US07645108B2 Stack loading and unloading cart
A cart includes a projecting load receiving platform mounted on a slide frame in turn mounted for vertical movement on a main frame. A spring mechanism urges the slide frame and platform to an elevated position so that objects may be stacked on the platform without placing them on the floor. As the weight of the stack on the platform increases the platform starts to descend until the cart is full. Conversely as items are removed from the top of the stack the platform elevates so the operator doesn't have to pick up an object from the floor. The spring mechanism uses a plurality of air springs each with a different load rating and operating in a cascading fashion. A pivoting weight operated latch holds the platform in its bottom position until released by a kick plate.
US07645105B2 Projection welded fastener with integral sealer
A fastener is provided for projection resistance welding to a panel. The fastener includes a base having a fastening element, such as a threaded stud or a nut integral therewith. Multiple projections formed integral with the base extend therefrom to engage with the panel to be welded to the panel by electric resistance welding. A groove is provided in the base facing the panel and is filled with a heat activated expandable sealer material. Upon heating of the base during the electric resistance welding, or in an oven, the sealer expands to fill and seal any gap between the base and the panel.
US07645103B2 Workpiece table arrangement
A workpiece table arrangement for a milling and drilling machine comprising a rigid machine tool frame comprising an upper cross girth, a machining unit movable on the front side of the cross girth along at least two coordinate axes by means of a motor and including a rotationally driven work spindle including exchangeable tools. The workpiece table is disposed in front of the machine tool frame and horizontally movable along at least one coordinate axis by means of a motor and comprises a tabletop for clamping at least one workpiece. The machine tool frame comprises two rigid side walls rigidly connected to each other by the upper crossbar and a front end.
US07645101B2 Chuck with internally threaded jaw in a PTO application
A power driver may include a housing, a tool chuck and a power take off mechanism. The tool chuck may have an input shaft mounted for rotation on the housing. The input shaft may support threaded chuck jaws. A chuck actuating shaft may be mounted for rotation on the input shaft. The chuck actuating shaft may be screw coupled to the threaded chuck jaws. The power take off mechanism may be connected to the tool chuck. The power take off mechanism may be adjustable into a DRILL DRIVE MODE to rotationally drive the input shaft and the chuck actuating shaft together as a unit, and a CHUCK MODE to rotationally drive the chuck actuating shaft relative to the input shaft. The power take off mechanism may be internal of the housing. The power take off mechanism in the CHUCK MODE may rotationally fix the input shaft to the housing.
US07645098B1 Modular retaining wall block with enhanced stacking ability
One embodiment of modular wall blocks of the present disclosure can be implemented as follows. An interlocking retaining wall block, adapted for assembly into a retaining wall including a plurality of stacked rows of at least a plurality of said blocks. The block includes left, right, front and rear body portions, and left and right protruding body portions extending outwardly in left and right directions from said left and right body portions, respectively. The block further includes left and right aligning elements extending upwardly from an upper surface of said left and right protruding body portions, respectively, each of said aligning elements having an upper surface that is angled downwardly from rear to front, each of said aligning elements being operable to be received by a void of another one of said blocks.
US07645097B2 Method for saturating cavities present in a mass of soil or in a body in general
A method for saturating cavities present in a mass of soil or in a body in general, comprising at least one step for at least partial filling of the cavity by introducing into the cavity a filler material in the solid state or in the fluid state and capable of setting. At least one step of saturating the cavity is then performed by introducing into the cavity a fluid synthetic substance which expands and sets by chemical reaction. The synthetic substance is adapted to generate, as a consequence of its expansion, at least the saturation of the cavity and a compaction and/or loading of the filler material introduced into the cavity in the filling step, creating an optional state of permanent tension on the walls that delimit the cavity, to the point of producing, if necessary, a deformation of the walls.
US07645094B2 Methods for the rapid deployment of piping
A piping transport structure for use with a deployment vehicle to provide for improved efficiencies in laying temporary or semi-permanent piping structures. There is also a system for having one or more deployment vehicles smoothly lay piping and to allow for long pipe lays to be carried out in less time.
US07645093B1 Articulating band saw and method
An articulating band saw apparatus provides a frame that includes a vertically extending section having upper and lower end portions. An elevator moves between the upper and lower end portions of the frame. A first hydraulic actuator is supported on the elevator for movement therewith. A first arm provides arm end portions, the first arm supported by the first hydraulic actuator. An end of the first arm supporting a second hydraulic actuator that is spaced away from the first hydraulic actuator. The second hydraulic actuator supports a second arm. An endless band type saw is mounted on the free end of the second arm generally opposite the second actuator. The band saw is movable by articulation of the first and second actuators and resulting movement of the first and second arms. In one embodiment, the band saw is a diamond wire saw.
US07645089B2 Hub and secondary driving element shaft locking system
A drive coupling hub (60) includes a body (120) and lugs (126) that extend radially from the body (120) and are engageable with a primemover (54) of a primary power source (14). The lugs (126) have a fastening lug (80) that includes a radially extending bore (82). A bearing (88) is set within the bore (82). A setscrew (90) extends within the bore (82) and applies pressure on the bearing (88) to engage the drive hub to a shaft (58) of a secondary power source (16).
US07645073B2 Hydrodynamic bearing device, spindle motor and disc recording and reproducing apparatus
A hydrodynamic bearing device which realizes power saving, reduction of a time period necessary for stabilizing rotation, and enhancement in durability to startup and halting of the motor at the same time by accelerating circulation of a lubricant in the vicinity of a flange with torque loss being kept low is provided. A flange (3) is fixed to one end of a shaft (2). On an inner surface of one of openings of a sleeve (1), a step portion (1C) is provided. When the shaft (2) is inserted into the sleeve (1), the flange (3) is in close vicinity to the step portion (1C). An inner diameter of the step portion (1C) is smaller in end portions in an axial direction than in a central portion. Thus, a gap between an outer surface (3C) of the flange (3) and a surface of the step portion (1C) which opposes the outer surface (3C) is narrow in the vicinity of boundaries of the outer surface (3C) of the flange (3) than in the vicinity the central portion.
US07645071B2 On chip temperature measuring and monitoring method
A device temperature measurement circuit, an integrated circuit (IC) including a device temperature measurement circuit, a method of characterizing device temperature and a method of monitoring temperature. The circuit includes a constant current source and a clamping device. The clamping device selectively shunts current from the constant current source or allows the current to flow through a PN junction, which may be the body to source/drain junction of a field effect transistor (FET). Voltage measurements are taken directly from the PN junction. Junction temperature is determined from measured junction voltage.
US07645056B1 Optical irradiation device having LED and heat pipe
An optical irradiation device incorporating a plurality of LEDs arranged in one or more clusters or arrays. A heat pipe is provided to conduct heat away from the LEDs allowing the LEDs to be driven to produce more radiation than would be possible without the heat pipe.
US07645055B2 Luminaire optical assembly
A luminaire assembly includes a housing having a first end and a second end, one of the first end and the second end having a threaded connection, a glass lens and a collar assembly connected to said lens, the collar assembly threadably connected to the housing. A luminaire lens mounting assembly, further may include a first lens connected to a housing, a belt connected to the housing, at least one arm extending from the belt, and, a second lens surrounding at least one of the housing and the first lens, the at least one arm extending through the second lens.
US07645053B2 Rotationally symmetrical LED-based anti-collision light for aircraft
A rotationally symmetrical anti-collision light (100, 200) for an aircraft utilizing light-emitting diodes (LEDs) is mounted to the fuselage of an aircraft. The LEDs (10, 10′, 20, 20′) may be configured in one or more concentric rings. The anti-collision light includes a reflector (30, 30′) configured to redirect the light emitted by at least one of the rings, so that the light pattern satisfies predetermined specifications.
US07645051B2 Lighted chair rail
A lighted chair rail comprises a frame secured to a wall and a horizontal facia mounted on the frame and positioned in a spaced apart relationship to the wall. Light bulbs supported on the frame direct light through a lens mounted on the horizontal facia onto the wall. The horizontal facia may also include decorative items.
US07645050B2 User-wearable illumination assembly
A user-wearable illumination assembly comprises a mounting fixture that is adapted to be coupled to a user-wearable device, such as eyeglasses, goggles, face masks, helmets, or other devices. A light guide has a first end that can be coupled to a light source, and a second end coupled to a lens housing that is in turn coupled to the mounting fixture. An optical lens in the lens housing cooperates with the light guide to project light from the light source through the lens. In one embodiment, the lens has a substantially spherical surface facing the second end of the light guide and an aspheric surface facing away from the second end of the light guide. In another embodiment, the mounting fixture comprises articulating portions to permit independent or simultaneous adjustment of the lens housing to direct projected light in a desired direction.
US07645048B2 Planar lighting device
The planar lighting device includes a light source having at least one LED chip for emitting blue light through a light emission face, a transparent light guide plate having at least one light entrance plane through which light emitted by the light source is admitted and a light exit plane through which the light admitted through the at least one light entrance plane is emitted as planar light, and a fluorescent member disposed between the light emission face and each of the at least one light entrance plane and having a fluorescent substance coated area for emitting white light by converting the blue light from the light source into the white light and blue light passing areas through which the blue light from the light source is allowed to pass as the blue light.
US07645047B2 Deployable emergency lighting system
An emergency lighting system comprising a housing further comprising a flat cover, wherein the flat cover automatically opens during an emergency condition; a light source located inside the housing further comprising a rechargeable battery and a wide angle LED light bulb, wherein the light source remains off under a normal condition and the light source automatically turns on in response to an emergency condition, and wherein the light source is removable.
US07645046B1 Flash photography reflector system
A flash photography reflector system is mounted on a camera of the type wherein the camera's flash unit is positionable above the camera's accessory shoe. A pair of reflectors are mounted on a support strut which engages the accessory shoe. The reflectors are in spaced apart positions and mutually facing with the flash unit positioned between them. The flash beam is directed at a first one of the reflectors, which then directs the flash beam to a larger one of the reflectors, which, in turn, directs the flash beam outwardly toward the subject of the photograph. The first and second reflectors expand the beam so that the final outgoing flash beam is many times broader then the beam that would proceed from the camera's flash unit alone.
US07645041B2 Sound lighting spectacles
The present invention deals with a new and additional aesthetical and customized decorative function to be given to the spectacles, in particular to the kind of spectacles used by young people and in particular entertainment and socialization places. Fundamental innovative feature of the invention is that of providing the spectacles with a light device D to be applied at sight on any of their external frame A, comprising a microphone (10) for the perception of the intensity of the sounds and noises, in order to reproduce and represent them visually in a light form, which is chromatically and proportionally intense, by means of a proper micro-processor (40), that transforms the sound intensity into lighting power of the display D by means of its printed circuit (30), said micro-processor being linked to a battery (50) as well as to a on/off switch (20).
US07645038B2 Spitting device for inkjet head of image forming apparatus
A spitting device for an inkjet head includes an array type inkjet head on which nozzle units are formed, and a platen which is disposed opposite to the nozzle units of the inkjet head. The platen includes ink outlets and printing medium guide ribs formed thereon, and supports a back surface of a printing medium. The platen includes a first platen unit and a second platen unit which is movably connected to the first platen unit and on which second printing medium guide ribs are formed. The spitting device can prevent the printing medium guide ribs from being contaminated by ink ejected from the nozzle units and allows the printing medium to be more stably fed during high-speed printing.
US07645036B2 Ink-jet recording ink set and ink-jet recording method
An ink-jet recording ink set, containing at least one recording liquid containing a colorant and a polymerizable compound and an ink spread suppressing liquid containing at least one surfactant and substantially no colorant, wherein all of the following conditions (A), (B) and (C) are satisfied, and an ink-jet recording method using the same:(A) the surface tension of the ink spread suppressing liquid is smaller than that of at least one recording liquid contained in the ink-jet recording ink set;(B) at least one of the surfactants contained in the ink spread suppressing liquid satisfies the following relationship: γs(0)−γs(saturated)>1 mN/m; and (C) the surface tension of the ink spread suppressing liquid satisfies the following relationship: γs<(γs(0)+γs(saturated)max)/2.
US07645028B2 Ink ejection nozzle with a paddle having a series of protrusions to reduce outward ink flow
The invention provides for an ink ejection nozzle for a printhead integrated circuit. The nozzle includes a fluid chamber and a paddle. The fluid chamber has a fluid outlet port and a fluid inlet port respectively defined in opposite walls of the chamber, the chamber having chamber wall edge portions for locating a paddle therebetween. The paddle is located in the chamber between the edge portions, the paddle operatively displaceable to eject ink from the fluid outlet port. The paddle is formed with a series of protrusions in a central portion of the paddle, the protrusions aiding in reducing outward ink flow from the centre of the paddle as the paddle moves towards the outlet port to eject ink via the outlet port.
US07645027B2 Print head with thermomechanical actuator
A print head using a thermomechanical actuator is capable of improving ejection efficiency and improving print quality by stabilizing an ejecting direction. In a print head for ejecting droplets with the thermomechanical actuator having a first layer and a second layer, the first layer includes a heat generation layer and the second layer includes a plurality of dielectric layers. The thermomechanical actuator includes a fixed end and a free end. The plurality of dielectric layers are laminated on a droplet ejecting side in relation to the heat generation layer and between the fixed end and the free end at the same film thickness. A linear expansion coefficient of the dielectric layer of the fixed end side is smaller than that of the heat generation layer. A linear expansion coefficient of the dielectric layer of the free end side is larger than that of the heat generation layer.
US07645023B2 Printer having capping system for printhead assembly
A printer is provided having a printhead assembly and a capping mechanism. The printhead assembly has two confronting pagewidth printheads and a plurality of nozzles located along each printhead and arranged in use to deliver ink onto opposite surfaces of print media as it is transported past the printheads. The capping mechanism has capping members having a length corresponding substantially to that of the printheads and actuating means arranged to effect linear movement of the capping members in a first direction and linear movement of the printheads in a second direction to a position at which nozzle capping engagement is effected between the capping members and respective ones of the printheads. The first and second directions are non-parallel.
US07645017B2 Liquid ejection apparatus, image forming apparatus and ejection determination method
The liquid ejection apparatus comprises: a liquid ejection head having a plurality of ejection ports which eject droplets of liquid; a light emitting device which emits a determination light beam intersecting with flight paths of the droplets ejected from at least two of the ejection ports to be examined; a light receiving device which receives the determination light beam having passed through the flight paths of the droplets and outputs a determination signal corresponding to an amount of received light; an ejection port selection device which selects the at least two of the ejection ports to be examined so that the at least two of the ejection ports are disposed on a line parallel to an optical axis of the determination light beam, and that a distance between the at least two of the ejection ports along the optical axis of the determination light beam is smaller than a prescribed specific distance; an ejection control device which performs ejection driving to eject the droplets at substantially same time from the at least two ejection ports selected by the ejection port selection device; and an ejection state judgment device which judges droplet ejection state of the at least two ejection ports according to the determination signal outputted by the light receiving device when the droplets ejected due to the ejection driving performed by the ejection control device pass through the determination light beam.
US07645014B2 Infrared light absorbent dye
Embodiments for use with infrared light absorbent dyes are disclosed.
US07645012B2 Recording apparatus
A recording apparatus includes a recording head, a sheet feed section configured to feed loaded recording sheets one by one toward the recording head, a carriage moving along a recording sheet and mounting the recording head thereon, a first detection unit configured to detect the width of the loaded recording sheet, and a second detection unit arranged in the carriage and configured to detect the width of the recording sheet as the carriage moves along the recording sheet. A detection area of the second detection unit is set based on the width of the loaded recording sheet detected by the first detection unit.
US07645009B2 Printing system that enables adjustment of positional misalignment of dot creation, equivalent method of adjustment, and recording medium
Bidirectional recording is carried out with a printer that enables variable size dots of different ink quantities to be created with different driving waveforms W1 and W2. Variables are set to a time delay n0 before output of the driving waveform W1 and a time interval n6 between the driving waveform W1 and the driving waveform W2. The output timings n0 and n6 of the driving waveforms W1 and W2 in the course of a backward pass of main scan are individually regulated on the basis of dots created in a forward pass of the main scan as a reference. This arrangement desirably reduces a positional misalignment of dots created in the forward pass with dots created in the backward pass with regard to each of the variable size dots having different ink quantities, thus ensuring high-quality printing.
US07645008B2 Pressure sensor, pressure measurement apparatus, liquid ejection head and image forming apparatus
The pressure sensor is provided commonly with respect to a plurality of pressure measurement objects. The pressure sensor comprises: a piezoelectric body; and a first electrode and a second electrode which are disposed on either side of the piezoelectric body in a thickness direction, wherein at least one of the first electrode and the second electrode is formed so as to have a narrower width in coupling sections corresponding to positions between the pressure measurement objects, than a width of sections corresponding to the pressure measurement objects.
US07645004B2 Liquid droplet ejection device, liquid droplet ejection method, manufacturing method of electro-optical device, electro-optical device and electronic equipment
A liquid droplet ejection device for ejecting a liquid from a nozzle of a head to a workpiece, the liquid droplet ejection device including: a table for loading the workpiece; a first shifting section capable of shifting the table in a first direction and in a second direction approximately intersecting the first direction at a right angle; a plurality of carriages having the head; and a second shifting section capable of positioning each of the carriages by mutually shifting each of the carriages along the second direction.
US07644997B2 Master cylinder with fill-up function
A fill-up device of a master cylinder is included in a hydraulic brake system for an automotive vehicle and generates a hydraulic pressure corresponding to an operation of a brake operating member. A coupled switching valve is switched by being mechanically coupled with movement of a piston relative to a housing. The coupled switching valve is in a first state where a fill-up chamber is in communication with a reservoir via a relief valve until the piston is advanced by a predetermined distance from a rearmost position, and switched to a second state where the fill-up chamber is in direct communication with the reservoir via the communication passage without the relief valve disposed therebetween when the piston is advanced by a distance larger than the predetermined distance. Thus, the hydraulic pressure in the fill-up chamber rapidly decreases, and the hydraulic pressure in pressure chambers rapidly increase.
US07644994B2 Construction machine for machining floor surfaces
In a construction machine 1 for the treatment of ground surfaces, comprising a chassis 2 carrying a machine frame 4, a drive motor 6, a work drum 8 supported on the machine frame 4 and having exchangeable tools 14 fastened to its outer surface 12, and a drive line 18 for the work drum 8 comprising at least the drive motor 6 and a transmission coupled to the drive motor 6, it is provided that an auxiliary drive 20, adapted to be coupled to the drive line 18, is arranged to rotate the work drum 8 in the raised condition of the drum by a predetermined or selectable rotational angle, the torque of the auxiliary drive 20 being higher than the moment of inertia of the work drum 8 and of the drive line 18 in the switched-off or decoupled state of the drive motor 6.
US07644990B2 Body support device for sleeping in a seated position
A personal support apparatus for supporting the head and body of a person sleeping in a seated position includes a generally U-shaped collar member for contacting the wearer's neck from the back, with the collar being made from a soft resilient material that retains its shape, and first and second side arm support members permanently or reversibly and adjustably attached to the collar, with the side arm support members being made from a soft malleable material that reversibly conforms to the contours of the passenger's body and/or the vehicle seat or other surface, the first and second side arm support members being characterized by a first level of firmness, and the collar member being characterized by a second level of firmness that is greater than the first level of firmness.
US07644987B2 Vehicle seat having active head restraint system
A vehicle seat assembly that includes a seatback frame and an active head restraint system operatively supported by the seatback frame. The active head restraint system includes an upper armature moveably mounted to the seatback frame and a head restraint mounted to the upper armature. The active head restraint system also includes a lower armature operatively attached to the upper armature. The lower armature is operable to move toward the upper armature in response to a predetermined force applied to the lower armature and act on the upper armature to move the head restraint toward the occupant.
US07644982B2 Reversible seat assembly
A reversible seat assembly includes a pair of spaced apart risers. A seat cushion is operatively coupled to the risers for movement between a first inclined position wherein a front end is farther from the floor than a rear end and a second inclined position wherein the rear end is farther from the floor than the front end. A seat back is operatively coupled to the risers for movement between first and second upright positions adjacent the rear and front ends of the seat cushion, respectively. A seat cushion control mechanism includes a pair of forward and rearward linkages operatively coupled between the front and rear ends of the seat cushion and the risers for automatically controlling the seat cushion between the first and second inclined positions in response to movement of the seat back between the first and second upright positions thereby defining forward and rearward-facing seating positions.
US07644976B2 Door opening and closing apparatus for vehicle
A door opening and closing apparatus for a vehicle includes a first hinge base adapted to be mounted to a vehicle body, a second hinge base adapted to be mounted to a vehicle door, a four-link hinge including a first hinge arm and a second hinge arm for connecting the first hinge base with the second hinge base, the four-link hinge supporting the vehicle door between a fully open position and a fully closed position, a fully open position locking mechanism adapted to be mounted on the vehicle door for locking the vehicle door relative to the vehicle body at the fully open position, and an unlocking mechanism adapted to be mounted on the fully open position locking mechanism for releasing a locked condition of the vehicle door.
US07644975B2 Mounting arrangement for mounting cladding to vehicle body
A mounting arrangement for securing a cladding to a vehicle body includes a vehicle body defining at least one aperture and a cladding having a body portion and at least one integral attachment structure extending from the body portion. The attachment structure includes a retaining portion received through the at least one aperture for securing the body portion to the vehicle body and a plurality of spaced apart ribs connecting the retaining portion to the body portion.
US07644974B2 Hood for a convertible
Disclosed is a hood (1) for a convertible (2), comprising a tail end/roof segment (6), a front roof segment (8) and at least one central roof segment (7). The roof segments (6, 7, 8) comprise opposite roof frame profiles (9, 10, 11) which are symmetrical in relation to a longitudinal axis (33) of the vehicle and can be folded together in a Z-shape by means of a folding mechanism. In order to reduce the packing height of the hood (1), the roof segments (9, 10, 11) lie substantially on top of each other in a parallel manner in a folded position when the hood is open (1) and the outer roof frame profiles (10) of the at least one central roof segment (7) are rotated about the axis, which is at least approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis (33) of the motor vehicle, by means of a guide device (21) in relation to a position when the hood is closed and are displaced in the direction of the center of the vehicle.
US07644969B2 Cover for interior trim component and method of assembling same
A decorative cover for a vehicle trim component includes a resilient skin including an edge for insertion into a groove of the vehicle trim component. At least one tab extends from the skin edge. At least one line of stitching is located on the resilient skin. The at least one line of stitching has at least one stitching end section extending beyond the skin edge and onto the at least one tab.
US07644967B2 Handling tool for radioactive sources of logging while drilling devices
A handling tool (100) for securely handling a radioactive source (204) comprises a first securing device and a second securing device. The first securing device comprises a chamber (103), and an opening mechanism (105, 106) for opening the chamber (103). The opening mechanism opens the chamber when the chamber is brought in proximity with a source pocket that may contain a radioactive source (204), and the opening mechanism closes the chamber when the chamber is withdrawn from the source pocket (200). The second securing device comprises a gripping device (111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117) to grip and release a radioactive source (204), and a positioning mechanism (109, 110, 116) for positioning the gripping device in the source pocket (200) or inside the chamber (103) of the first securing device.
US07644965B2 Protector assembly for a roll cage on a vehicle
A protector assembly for a roll cage on a vehicle. The protector assembly includes a roll cage having a pair of uprights, each of the uprights having a first end secured to the vehicle and a second end secured to a roof member. Each of the uprights also has an outer surface facing outward away from the vehicle. A removable insert is secured to the outer surface of each of the uprights and protects the uprights from coming in contact with another member and being worn down.
US07644963B2 Hooking device
A hooking device includes a hook for clasping a latching device, a spring mounted to the hook for providing a restoration force to the hook, and a base securing the hook and the spring thereon. The hook includes a main portion, a catch portion, and a pair of shaft portions extending from the other end along opposite direction. The spring includes two winding portions, two first arms extending from ends of the winding portions, the first arms acting on the hook; and two second arms extending from the other ends of the winding portions. The base includes a base plate defining an opening, two supporting plates accommodating the shaft portions, two bearing plates extending from the base plate, the second arms acting on the bearing plate, and an elastic arm extending from the base plate pushing on the other end of the main portion of the hook.
US07644961B2 Tube joint
A tube joint for connecting two pipes comprises two enlarged openings formed at two pipes to be connected; a sealing pad between the two enlarged openings; each of two ends of the sealing pad are formed with a reduced stepped portion; a shape of the stepped portion being matched to the enlarged openings so as to be received in the enlarged opening; thereby the stepped portion can seal the enlarged opening; a middle section of the sealing pad being between the two reduced stepped portion and being protruded between the two enlarged openings; and two covering plates. Each covering plate encloses around a periphery of the enlarged opening and a periphery of the middle section of the sealing pad. Two first annular lips are installed around an outer periphery of the stepped portions of the sealing pad, and each sealing pad may be formed with a second annular lip.
US07644960B2 Clamp
A clamp for coupling mating radially projecting flanges, each flange having a tapered outer face. The clamp includes at least a pair of component halves. Each half includes a generally U-shaped cross-sectional profile having a base portion and two opposing side limbs projecting from the base portion defining a recess intermediate the side limbs for receiving the mating flanges and a bolt and a lug for fastening the component halves together. Each side limb has a contact face for abutting a tapered face of a flange and a non-contact face. The base portion has a non-contact face. The contact faces of the side limbs are remote from the non-contact face of the base portion.
US07644956B2 Flexible duct sleeve
A sleeve assembly (2) for supporting flexible duct (4) includes a frame (6) with first and second frame sections (10a, b). The frame sections are secured together by fastener subassemblies (8). The sleeve assembly accommodates flexible duct in various angular and straight configurations. The frame can comprise various suitable materials and skeletal or solid-exterior construction. The sleeve assembly is adapted for various installations in air distribution systems of heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems.
US07644952B2 Seat belt restraint system
A seat belt is secured to an anchor at one side of a seated person and extends across the seated person's body to a second anchor at an opposite side of the seated person to which the belt is also secured. A belt retention device is operable, when actuated in response to a sudden, rapid deceleration of the vehicle, to grip the belt between the anchors at a point of engagement adjacent to the one side of the seated person to cooperate with the second anchor in taking up any slack in a section of the belt between the point of engagement and the second anchor and also maintaining such section of the belt tightly engaged across the person's body.
US07644950B2 Gas deflector for an air-bag
A gas deflector (24) is disclosed for use with a cylindrical gas generator (20). The gas deflector (24) comprises a generally tubular housing to accommodate the cylindrical gas generator (20). The housing has two terminal portions (25, 26) of generally circular cross-section and has an intermediate region provided with an outwardly-extending formation (28). The outwardly-extending formation (28) defines, at either end thereof, an opening (31, 34) through which gas may flow in the direction substantially parallel to the axis of the housing.
US07644946B2 Drawbar side cushioning for tractors
A removable side impact load cushioning device for use on the hitch on an agricultural tractor or prime mover that allows operator selectable use of the device to dampens side impact loads on a drawbar by enabling slight lateral movement of the drawbar or to retain the drawbar in a generally laterally fixed position.
US07644943B2 Gas spring assembly
A gas spring assembly that is suitable for use on a vehicle suspension system includes a first end member and a second end member that is spaced from the first end member. A flexible wall is secured between the first and second end members and at least partially defines a first gas chamber therebetween. A confinement at least partially forms a second gas chamber that is in communication with the first gas chamber. A porous flow restrictor is operatively disposed between the gas chambers. A suspension system including such a gas spring assembly as well as a method is also included.
US07644940B2 Progressive transmission mechanism
The invention relates to a transmission mechanism (20) of a progressive gear (1), especially a steering gear for a vehicle, comprising a seating for each of an input shaft (10) and an output shaft (30). The transmission mechanism (20) according to the invention consists of a movable coupler (21) which is in articulated connection with the input shaft (10) and the output shaft (30) so that transmission from the input shaft (10) to the output shaft (30) with a progressive characteristic is achieved in the range −180° to +180°. The advantage of such a gear (1) lies in the simple and therefore economical production of the apparatus and in its low space requirement. The absence of play in the mechanism and the direct transmission of forces by virtue of the individual components having suitable angles with respect to one another are further advantages.
US07644937B2 Child support for attachment to shopping cart
A child carrier attachable to a shopping cart having a basket mounted to a frame supported by a plurality of caster wheels for contacting a ground surface. The child carrier comprises a support member having at least one stabilizing wheel connected thereto for contacting the ground surface. The support member has a bottom member, with a seat disposed on the support member; and an attachment fixture is connected to the support member for connecting the support member to the cart.
US07644936B2 Caster control apparatus
Disclosed is a caster control apparatus for a suspension of a vehicle. When the vehicle travels on a road which causes a vehicle body to lean to one side, the caster of a lowered wheel is increased, and the caster of a raised wheel is decreased, such that the casters of the wheels on both sides are offset with each other. Therefore, the vehicle is inhibited from leaning due to the lateral slope of the road, and the straight-line stability of the vehicle can be reliably maintained.
US07644935B2 Spring carrier with adjustable spring collar
A spring carrier for mounting a spring strut to a vehicle body includes a vibration damper having a cylinder and a piston rod which is axially guided in the cylinder, first and second spring collars, and a spring located between the spring collars. An actuator includes a nut and a threaded spindle surrounding the piston rod, the actuator being driven to change the relative axial position of the spring collars. A guide tube extends coaxially between the piston rod and the threaded spindle, the threaded spindle being supported radially against the guide tube by a bearing.
US07644933B2 Vehicle suspension system and method
A suspension system adaptable for cross-flow operation includes a plurality of gas springs, a transfer passage in communication between the gas springs, and a transfer valve for selectively permitting gas flow along the transfer passage. A control system selectively actuates the transfer valve. A method of operation is also described.
US07644927B2 Target support system
A modular set of elements are nondestructively assemblable into and disassemblable out of a plurality of configurations of a system for supporting targets and signs on a hard surface or on soft ground. These elements include an upright, a base that upholds the upright and is disposable in a stable manner on a hard surface or on soft ground, a horizontal arm from which to suspend a target or sign, and a brace slidable on the outer surface of the upright that includes a tubular shoulder capable of receiving an end of the horizontal arm. A hanger of unitary molded construction is capable of suspending from a horizontal support a clay target of the type cast by trap or skeet shooting equipment.
US07644926B2 Domino like card and board game
Embodiments pertain to a game for entertainment in which players draw cards to select game pieces and then place those pieces on a game board. In one embodiment, players place their game tiles next to tiles on the board, matching pips (spots) to pips, similar to the game of dominos. Players are assessed points for every pip that's on a light-colored square of the board. The game ends when all tiles have been placed on the board. The player with the fewest points wins the game. In other embodiments players place tiles in other ways, or score points in other ways, or do not score points at all. Also, in other embodiments, there are alternative ways in which the game ends, and/or alternative ways to determine the winner.
US07644921B2 Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus in accordance with the present invention can include a conveying device capable of conveying a recording medium, a support shaft which capable of being movably supported between a medium sensing position near a conveyance path along which the conveying device conveys the recording medium and a retracting position kept away from the medium sensing position, wherein the support shaft is biased to the medium sensing position, a medium sensing member connected to the support shaft and is capable of rotating between a standby position wherein a portion of the support shaft is inside the conveyance path and a detection position wherein a portion of the support shaft is removed from the conveyance path by the recording medium passing along the conveyance path when the support shaft is in the medium sensing position, and a rotation detection device capable of detecting a rotary displacement of the medium sensing member.
US07644916B2 Unit and a method for feeding labels in a packer machine for tobacco products
A label feeder unit associated with a machine for packing tobacco products holds a stack of labels placed in a channel presenting an infeed end, and an outfeed end from which the labels are released to a take-up station, then picked up singly and transferred to a further unit of the machine. The outfeed end of the channel incorporates a transfer mechanism comprising a pair of contrarotating rollers placed on either side of the channel at a distance less than the width of the stack in such a way as to intercept the labels and transfer them to the take-up station, which is movable relative to the outfeed end of the channel under the pressure transmitted to the station by the labels taken up between the rollers. The transfer mechanism forms part of a feedback control loop by which the pressure registering through the labels at the take-up station is kept within prescribed limits.
US07644914B2 Bill deposit/withdrawal machine for depositing/withdrawing bills
A bill deposit/withdrawal machine including a deposit/withdrawal port for delivering the bills deposited by users and discharging bills to users. The deposit/withdrawal port includes a bill hopper for accepting bills deposited by users and discharging bills to users, a delivering mechanism for delivering bills deposited by users, and a push plate operation mechanism for moving a push plate which forms an accepting unit and which supports bills. The bill hopper is movable by rotation operations with a bill delivering side as a fulcrum, and the delivering mechanism includes at least a gate controller which does not rotate in a delivering direction.
US07644913B2 Method and device for feeding a number of flat subproducts to a serial subsequent processing
For supplying individual quantities of flat and in particular diverse part products to a serial further processing, the part products are arranged in a row of part product groups (7) in a preparatory step carried out before the supply step (e.g. supplementation), and the row (2) is fashioned into a “first-in-last-out” storage formation, such as a roll (5). Within the row (2) the part products or the part product groups (7) overlap or are spaced from each other. For stabilizing the part product groups (7), adhesion between the part products within the groups may be enhanced; for stabilizing the storage formation, the part product groups (7) may be reversibly connected to each other. For supplying the groups to the serial further processing, which may succeed the preparatory step at any time or place, the storage formation is dissolved and the part product groups are supplied to the further processing directly from the storage formation. The preparatory step is completely uncoupled from the supply step, which simplifies the method and the installation for both, the supply and the further processing.
US07644909B2 Apparatus and method for aeration/mixing of water
The aeration system is for aeration and/or mixing of water, which system has at least one aeration unit that has a pump/propeller inside a feed pipe. The feed pipe, to which the water to be aerated, is sucked from beneath. The aeration system has the feed pipe expanding in the upper part of the aeration unit to a conical space working as a nozzle, via which the water continues its way to at least one annular opening.
US07644904B1 Pressure relief valve for use in cementitious material pumping systems
A pressure relief valve integrally formed with a section of conduit in a closed system for pumping cementitious material eliminates any dead space in the system within which the cementitious material may flow and set, and thus avoids system disassembly for cleaning following use and the possible replacement of clogged system components. The pressure relief valve includes a hollow cylindrical housing disposed on a conduit. First and second elongated linear slots are aligned with the cylindrical housing's longitudinal axis and are disposed in opposed portions of housing, with one slot in flow communication with the conduit. A cylindrical drum having a third elongated linear slot disposed within the cylindrical housing is freely rotatable therein. A handle attached to one end of the drum allows for manual rotation of the drum for aligning the three slots permitting the discharge of cementitious material and release of pressure in the system.
US07644901B2 Dive tank support device
A dive tank support device for supporting a dive tank while a diver is attempting to attach the dive tank to the diver's body immediately before jumping from a vessel and beginning a dive. The dive tank support device may be formed from a body having a bottom support adapted to support a dive tank and at least one sidewall extending up from the bottom support and configured to limit tilting of the dive tank relative to the bottom support. The body supports the dive tank and the recess enables the dive tank to be easily pulled from the dive tank support device once a diver has attached the dive tank to himself.
US07644890B2 Low-energy locking hinge mechanism for deployable devices
A low-energy locking hinge mechanism operable with a spacecraft to support a deployable device, and to facilitate the deployment and locking of the deployable device, the hinge mechanism comprising: (a) a support base configured to couple to a structure of the spacecraft; (b) means for securing a deployable device to the support base, the deployable device being configured to rotate about a pivot axis; (c) a one-way clutch supported about the support base and operable with the means for securing, the one-way clutch being configured to facilitate one-way rotation of the deployable device from a stowed position to a deployed position, and to lock the deployable device in the deployed position, the one-way clutch having an inherent actuatable locking function configured to prevent backward motion; and (d) an actuation member operable with the one-way clutch to deploy the deployable device from the stowed position to the deployed position, the actuation member comprising an actuation energy sufficient to actuate the locking function of the one-way clutch within a zero-gravity environment.
US07644889B2 Fluid sensing system and methods, including vehicle fuel sensors
Fluid sensing systems and methods, including sensors used to sense various fluid levels in vehicles, are disclosed herein. One aspect of the invention is directed toward a method for sensing a fluid that includes passing electromagnetic radiation through a receptacle positioned to hold a fluid. The receptacle can be configured so that electromagnetic radiation that passes through portions of the receptacle containing fluid is focused. The method can further include determining (a) whether fluid is located in a selected portion of the receptacle based on an amount of electromagnetic radiation that impinges on at least one radiation sensor, (b) a characteristic of fluid located in the passageway of the selected portion based on a pattern of the electromagnetic radiation that is created on the at least one radiation sensor, or (c) both (a) and (b).
US07644888B2 High-speed aircraft and methods for their manufacture
A high-speed transport aircraft. In one embodiment, the aircraft includes a fuselage, delta wings, and integrated engine nacelles. The fuselage is configured to carry a payload and has a forward portion and an aft portion. The aft portion defines a generally constant-width planform and includes first, second, third, and fourth passenger seat sections, with each of the seat sections having at least two passenger seats positioned abreast at least generally normal to a longitudinal axis of the fuselage. In one aspect of this embodiment, the wings extend from the fuselage adjacent to the aft portion, and the fuselage further includes first and second rows of windows above the wings. The first row of windows are positioned in the fuselage directly adjacent the first seat section and the second row of windows are positioned in the fuselage directly adjacent the fourth seat section.
US07644887B2 Yaw control system and method
A yaw control system and a method of controlling yaw for an aircraft are provided. The yaw control system includes a first wing set and a second wing set which are rotatable in opposite directions. Each of the wing sets includes at least two wings each including a pivotable flap forming a trailing edge of its respective wing. A flap control assembly controls the pivotable flaps of the first wing set and of the second wing set such that when the pivotable flaps of the first wing set are pivoted in a first direction by a first set angle, the pivotable flaps of the second wing set are simultaneously pivoted by a second set angle in an opposite direction, thereby providing yaw control for the aircraft.
US07644886B2 Reel
The invention of the present application provides a reel, which can improve the dimensional accuracy of a hub, having a configuration in which a reinforcing tubular member is disposed on the hub by insert molding. A resin layer extends from one end portion side of the hub at which a first flange is integrally formed in a height direction of the hub. The resin layer is disposed on an inner peripheral surface of the tubular member in the reel. The reel is provided with a resin hub having an outer peripheral surface on which a recording tape T is wound, the first flange is integrally formed at one end portion of the hub, a second flange is welded at the other end portion of the hub, and a reinforcing tubular member is disposed on an inner peripheral surface of the hub by insert molding.
US07644882B2 Rotating mineral breaker
A breaker having a first end and a second opposed end and a plurality of breaker drums arranged side by side in a row extending between said ends, the drums being arranged with their axes of rotation parallel to one another, at least two neighboring drums adjacent to the first end being arranged to continuously rotate in the same direction to define feeder drums for feeding material toward the second end, each breaker drum having radially projecting breaker teeth which co-operate with opposed breaker teeth on the adjacent drum to grip oversized material therebetween to cause breakage thereof, to permit passage of undersized material therebetween and to move unbroken oversized material toward said second end.
US07644874B2 Injector
In an injector, a first shaft portion of a needle is slidably supported by a first sleeves which is loosely received in a first internal chamber, and a second shaft portion of the needle is slidably supported in a body. Thereby, the first and second shaft portions are supported by the different members, and a relatively large clearance is formed on a radially outer side of the first sleeve.
US07644865B2 Imaging reader with variable range
A solid-state imager in a reader for electro-optically reading indicia located in a range of working distances includes an array of image sensors for capturing light from the indicia over a field of view during the reading. The range of working distances in which the indicia are read is varied, either automatically or manually.
US07644864B2 Apparatus for reading codes
A code reader for reading one- and/or two-dimensional codes. A position resolving light receiver (3) is mounted in a housing (2). An imaging optics made of several components is associated with the light receiver and is also disposed in the housing. The imaging optics has at least one stationary optics (4) and a deflecting optics arranged on an optical axis (10) in front of the light receiver (3). A pivot arm is mounted on a pivot axis (9) in the housing. Pivoting of the pivot arm results in a positional and angular change of the effective back optical focal distance measured from the vortex of the last back surface of the lens to the focal point thereof. If the objects to be identified are at different distances from the identification apparatus, the pivot arm (8) is pivoted. As a result, the deflection optics mounted on the pivot arm changes the effective back focal distance as well as the focal length of the imaging optics to thereby project an exact image onto the light receiver.
US07644858B2 Corrugated container
A corrugated container for shipping containers, such as glass bottles, includes a shipping box, a liner, one or more cross-pieces, a top sheet and a bottom sheet. The liner, cross-pieces, top sheet and bottom sheet may be made of corrugated or hexacomb material to provide shock absorbing protection to the bottles received within the shipping box. The liner and cross-pieces do not extend the full height of the box to allow the corners of the box to crush or crumple in the event the container is dropped on one of its upper corners. A pair of staggered hand holes may be formed in the opposite sides of the box to enable ergonomic lifting of the container.
US07644854B1 Bead pack brazing with energetics
A method of making porous shapes from unit structures such as beads involves coating the beads with two or more layers of material deposited such that it forms an energetic material. These bi-layer energetic materials are formed from a variety of materials including, but not limited to: Ti & B, Zr & B, Hf & B, Ti & C, Zr & C, Hf & C, Ti & Si, Zr & Si, Nb & Si, Ni & Al, Zr & Al, or Pd & Al, all of which can be deposited from vapor. Pressure is applied to prevent the components from moving and the solid-state reaction between the alternating layers produces exothermic heat. Heat from the reaction alone or in conjunction of an applied brazing compound joins the beads forming a porous shape that is desired. The reaction in the materials may be activated with a small pulse of local energy that can be applied using optical, electrical, or thermal sources. Common examples include an electrical pulse, spark, hot filament, a laser beam, etc. The method reduces energy consumption and the need for specialized equipment. The reactive materials and optional brazing material are preferably applied in a fluidized CVD furnace.
US07644853B2 Apparatus for attaching solder balls to BGA package utilizing a tool to pick and dip the solder ball in flux
A method of attaching solder balls to a BGA package using a ball pickup tool is disclosed. An array of solder balls is formed on a first substrate for interconnecting with conductive sites on another substrate. The ball pickup tool picks up solder balls with a vacuum suction from a fluidized ball reservoir and utilizes a puff of gas to release the solder ball(s) carried thereon to conductive sites of a substrate for bonding thereto. In another embodiment, the bond pads of a substrate are coated with a flux or adhesive and lowered into a fluidized ball reservoir for direct attachment of solder balls.
US07644851B2 Stapler
Clincher holders hold a pair of clinchers for bending the legs of a staple driven by a driver, and have slanting guide faces for guiding the tips of the legs of the staple toward the clinchers. In a stapling table for receiving sheets of paper, an opening is made. The clincher holders are movable inside the opening. Drop-preventing portions for preventing the sheets of paper from dropping inside the opening in stapling are projected from opening edges of the opening toward the inside of the opening.
US07644849B2 Effort-saving stapler
An effort-saving stapler includes a shell, a magazine, a hammer, an elastic element, a block, a trigger and an extensive element. The magazine is disposed in the shell for supporting and feeding nails. The hammer is disposed in the shell for hammering the nails, one at a time. The elastic element is disposed in the shell for biasing the hammer. The block is disposed in the shell. The trigger is movably and pivotally connected to the shell and engaged with the block at an engagement point. The extensive element includes a first end connected to the hammer and a second end telescopically connected to the trigger. When the trigger is operated, the hammer is lifted by the extensive element and the engagement point is moved towards the hammer.
US07644848B2 Electronic lockouts and surgical instrument including same
A surgical cutting and stapling instrument is disclosed. The instrument includes an end effector and a handle. The end effector includes a channel, an anvil pivotally attached to the channel, a moveable cutting instrument for cutting an object positioned between the anvil and the channel, and a staple cartridge configured for removable receipt by the channel. The staple cartridge includes a sled that is engaged by the cutting instrument during a cutting stoke. The handle includes a motor for actuating the cutting instrument via a main drive shaft assembly. The instrument further includes a first interlock circuit for enabling initiation of motor operation based upon a position of the staple cartridge.
US07644844B1 Clothes hanger
A clothes hanger is provided having a first fixed arm and a second retractable arm to allow for easy placement of clothing thereon. The instant abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.
US07644832B1 Resealable lid for open cans of pet food
A removable serving lid is provided that sealingly covers the opening of a pet food can. A sealing sidewall extending downward form a flexible lid cover circumscribes the upper opening of a pet food can, and thereby forms an air-tight seal. The flexible material is designed to apply and remove easily, even when cold such as to accommodate refrigeration of any un-dispensed contents of a pet food can. A gripping flange extending laterally outward from the perimeter of the sidewall provides a gripping surface to facilitate removal of the sealed lid. Finally, an adjustable scoop is perpendicularly disposed through the flexible lid cover through a scoop aperture that seals against the handle of the scoop, maintaining a sealed environment even as the sloop is vertically adjusted into the contents of the food can.
US07644826B2 Basket for a dishwashing machine having various receptacles and/or holders
The present invention relates to a basket (1) for a dishwashing machine having various receptacles and/or holders for plates or cups whereby in particular a cup support (3) comprises a shelf pivotably mounted in the basket (1) and assuming a horizontal position to form a second supporting surface about hinge points hinge points (4, 5) provided on the basket. To increase the shelf layers of the cup support (3) the hinge points (4, 5) are mounted on the basket (1) in such a way that they are variable in height.