| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US07961400B2 |
Projecting optical unit and projecting type image display apparatus therewith
A projection image display device is disclosed in which a trapezoidal distortion and/or aberration are restrained when an image is enlarged and projected obliquely onto a screen. An image generator is connected to an optical system base in such a manner that at least an inclination thereof (on an axis parallel to X axis) with respect to a vertical line and a distance thereof in forward and backward direction (Z axis direction) can be adjusted by an adjusting mechanism. Further, a projecting lens 2 as a first optical system and a free-form curved surface mirror as a second optical system are fixed to the optical system base. The free-form curved surface mirror is rotatable (on an rotary axis parallel to X axis) with respect to the vertical line at a substantial center of the free-form curved surface mirror. |
| US07961399B2 |
SLM projection display with series DMD illuminator
The addition of DMD illumination modulator(s) 702 in series with projection SLM(s) 706/709 to produce high-performance projection displays with improved optical efficiency, reliability, and lower maintenance requirements. This approach eliminates the vibration, audible noise, and safety problems associated with high speed rotating color filter wheels 203 commonly used in SLM projectors and controls the light applied to individual areas of the projection SLM(s). |
| US07961398B2 |
Multiple image camera and lens system
A system for simultaneously producing multiple images substantially identical images on multiple separate detector planes is disclosed. A reflective spatially beam-splitting element preferably comprising multiple reflective areas is preferably placed at a location substantially coincident with the pupil or aperture of the system. In non-diffraction limited systems, each area preferably comprises an actual cross section that is circular or has the rotational symmetry (or a multiple thereof) of the number of images to be formed. In diffraction limited systems, all of the areas preferably comprise actual cross sections that have the same shape, size and orientation with respect to the incoming optical beam. Each individual actual cross section may be due to the shape of each area, optionally in combination with a mask. Appropriate selection of filters enables real-time multi-spectral scientific imaging, imaging polarimetry, or high dynamic range imaging (HDRI) for photography and cinematography, even with a moving camera and/or moving subjects. |
| US07961397B2 |
Single-channel optical processing system for energetic-beam microscopes
A single-channel optical processing system for an energetic-beam instrument has separate sources for processing radiation and illumination radiation. The processing radiation and the illumination radiation are combined in a single optical path and directed to a sample surface inside the energetic-beam instrument through a self-focusing rod lens. The self-focusing rod lens thus has a working distance from the sample surface that will not interfere with typical arrangements of ion beams and electron beams in such instruments. A combination of polarizers and beam splitters allows separation of the combined incident radiation and the combined radiation reflected from the sample surface and returned through the same optical channel, so that the reflected radiation may be directed to an optical detector, such as a camera or spectrometer. In other embodiments, additional illumination of the sample surface is provided at an angle to the central axis of the self-focusing rod lens. |
| US07961394B2 |
Polarizing glass, optical isolator, and method for producing polarizing glass
A polarizing glass includes shape-anisotropic metal particles oriented and dispersed in a glass substrate, the concentration of the metal particles having a distribution in which in the travel direction of light in which a polarizing function is exhibited, the concentration is substantially zero near one of the surfaces of the glass substrate and near the other surface, gradually increases from one of the surfaces of the glass substrate to the other surface, becomes a value within a predetermined range in the glass substrate, and then gradually decreases toward the other surface. |
| US07961390B2 |
Screen of projector
A screen of a projector having a substrate and a plurality of asymmetric optical structures is provided. There is a plurality of light absorbing zones and a plurality of reflective zones alternatively disposed on a surface of the substrate facing the projector. The asymmetric optical structures are disposed on the surface of the substrate and correspond to the reflective zones, respectively. The asymmetric optical structure has a first curved surface and a second curved surface, and the first curved surface protrudes toward the projector for converging an incident light from the projector on the reflective zone, and the second curved surface is disposed at a side of the first curved surface away from the projector for refracting a reflective light from the reflective zones toward the normal direction of the surface of the substrate. |
| US07961375B2 |
Multi-cell solid-state electrochromic device
A multi-cell electrochromic device comprises a plurality of solid-state electrochromic cells that are arranged in an optical alignment. Each electrochromic cell is separated from an adjacent electrochromic cell in the optical alignment by a transparent conductive layer that is shared by the two adjacent electrochromic cells. |
| US07961373B2 |
High-resolution digital phase modulator for a fiber-optic signal transmission or measurement device
A digital phase modulator for a fiber-optic measurement device. A predetermined total number of electrodes of different lengths are arranged in parallel and on both sides of a light guidance path in or on an optical substrate. The electrodes are arranged in two or more triples along the light guidance path. In each case, two electrodes of successive length within a triple have the same length ratio with respect to one another. Such length ratio is chosen, in particular, to be ν=1.618. The electrode lengths of this triple are chosen such that the smallest step widths of the output value range of the phase modulator can be formed by subtraction between the values of at least two larger electrodes. This allows the resolution of the phase modulator to be increased from 9 bits to 11 bits without change in chip size. |
| US07961371B2 |
Optical beam generating device
The light beam generator 1 is provided with a laser light source 10, an optical phase modulation element 15 and others. The optical phase modulation element 15 receives coherent light output from the laser light source 10 and passed through a beam splitter 14 to modulate a phase of the light depending on a position on the beam cross section of the light, and outputs the light after the phase modulation to the beam splitter 14. A polar coordinate system (r, θ) in which a predetermined position is given as an origin is set on the beam cross section of the light input in the optical phase modulation element 15, and when (p+1) domains divided by p (number of pieces) circumferences in which the predetermined position is given as a center are set, of these (p+1) domains, a phase modulation amount φ at each position inside an even numbered domain counted from the inside is expressed by a formula of “φ=qθ”, and a phase modulation amount φ at each position inside an odd numbered domain counted from the inside is expressed by a formula of “φ=qθ+π”. |
| US07961370B2 |
Two frequency resonantly excited MEMS mirror for diode-laser marker
Apparatus for marking a bitmap image on tape includes a scanning mirror which is incorporated in a micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS). The MEMS is torsionally resonant at two frequencies one being about three time the other. The MEMS is excited to resonance by applying an AC signal to the actuators, causing the mirror to oscillate. The AC signal has components at the two frequencies. The magnitude and phase-relationship of the components can be selected such that the mirror oscillates in an approximation of a triangle-wave. |
| US07961369B2 |
Large-angle agile laser beam steering apparatus and method
A laser beam steering apparatus includes a beam steering cell with an adjustable shape, with the cell having opposing Fabry-Perot filters, and a steering mechanism coupled to the cell to adjust its shape so that the direction of a laser beam emitted from the cell is changed in response to a change in the cell shape. |
| US07961359B2 |
Semiconductor device and display device
A semiconductor device includes: an LCD controller configured to output a plurality of image signals in parallel; a plurality of signal lines respectively corresponding to the plurality of image signals to be outputted in parallel; a plurality of terminal portions respectively connected to the plurality of signal lines; and delay circuits configured to delay a plurality of image signals, which are divided into a plurality of groups to the extent that the sum of each value of a current flowing through each signal line does not exceed a predetermined current value and outputted from a plurality of terminal portions, by a predetermined delay time from each other among the plurality of groups. |
| US07961358B2 |
Image processing apparatus and method for combining image files and applying selected security processing
Two or more designated images are combined (S1254), and the type of security process to be performed for the combined image is input (S1253). The security process is performed for the combined image by using the information associated with the input type of security process (S1255). |
| US07961353B2 |
Image scanner printer
An image scanner printer that reads an original image and that prints out the original image includes a red-eye detection unit, a YCC image storage processing unit, a YCC/RGB conversion unit, a red-eye correction unit, and a print data creating unit. The red-eye detection unit detects red-eye that is included in an image corresponding to a predetermined number of lines of RGB image data when the original image is read. The YCC image storage processing unit converts the predetermined number of lines of the RGB image data into YCC image data and stores all the data as one unit JPEG image. The YCC/RGB conversion unit converts the YCC image data into RGB image data in units of a line or in units of a predetermined number of lines. The red-eye correction unit executes red-eye correction on the RGB image data when an image corresponding to the converted RGB image data includes a red-eye area that is stored in a red-eye table. When print data are created from the RGB image data, the print data creating unit, for RGB image data, among the RGB image data, on which the red-eye correction has been performed, creates print data from the RGB image data on which the red-eye correction has been performed. |
| US07961352B2 |
Printing control according to combinations of color materials
A printing control device which performs printing control for printing by using color materials of a plurality of types, includes: acquiring unit that acquires a color material set which is a combination of the color materials used for printing; and creation unit that creates a color conversion profile which prescribes conversion rules for converting image data expressed by a first color space into image data expressed by a second color space which differs from the first color space and which is a color space expressed by a color material amount set which is a combination of usage amounts for the respective color materials constituting the color material set. |
| US07961344B2 |
Delivery expert system and method
An automated rule-based system for facilitating delivery of a fax document from a source to a destination over a network where an initial delivery attempt has been unsuccessful. Actions to be taken are based upon a time-variable set of input conditions which may be determined from one or more of the destination, the source, a database of past delivery attempts, and a human analyst. The actions may include one or more of resubmitting the fax document to the network for a next delivery attempt, cancelling the document, sending a request to the source or destination for additional delivery information, and identifying the destination as a technical problem. The input conditions may include an identification of non-business days and non-business hours. |
| US07961340B2 |
Printer, printing system and printing method for preventing abnormal printing
A printer prints a print job having a plurality of blocks each of which has a block size section and corresponding data that should be printed. A receiving section receives the print job from an external apparatus. A comparing section compares a content of the block size section with a threshold value. When the content of the block size section exceeds the threshold value, a discarding section discards a subsequent portion of the data. The threshold value is set to a user's desired value. |
| US07961337B2 |
Electronically tagged printed matter, image forming device, image forming method, and image forming program, as well as computer readable recording medium on which the program is recorded
In IC-tagged printed matter 200, image data is printed on IC-tagged paper and the image data of the printed image is stored in the IC tag. MFP 100C makes a judgment whether the document set by ADF 141 is an IC-tagged printed mater or not by means of IC tag reader 143A, reads out the image data from the IC tag of the document on the ADF by means of IC tag reader 143A without transporting the document, and prints it on conventional paper or IC-tagged printing paper by means of printing unit 151, when it is the IC-tagged printed matter. If it is to be printed on IC-tagged printing paper, it writes the printed image data on the IC tag of said IC-tagged printing paper by means of IC tag writer 152 simultaneously. Thus, high quality copies in which the attribute information of the printed matter is reflected can be obtained from the electronically tagged printed mater. |
| US07961323B2 |
Microarray imaging system and associated methodology
An apparatus and method are provided for creating an image of a microarray. The apparatus includes at least one light source configured to direct light toward the microarray. The apparatus includes an excitation filter configured to filter the light into a first frequency band towards dichromatic mirror. The dichromatic mirror reflects light onto the microarray causing the microarray to emit electromagnetic energy. The apparatus includes emission filter configured to filter the electromagnetic energy within a second frequency band. The apparatus further includes an imaging unit having a charged coupled device (CCD), the CCD having an imaging surface masked by a pinhole blind such that when the pinhole blind receives electromagnetic energy from the emission filter, an image is created of the entire microarray. |
| US07961322B2 |
Method for conditional application of color measurement error compensation in spectral sensors
Color measurements of color samples are estimated by a system and method wherein an area coverage of a color sample is computed, the color sample is printed, a color of the printed color sample, such as a set of reflectance values, is measured at a first temperature, and a color of the printed color sample is estimated at a second temperature lower than the first temperature, the estimation being based on the area coverage and a thermochromatic model which represents relationships between measured colors of printed color samples at the first and second temperatures. |
| US07961317B2 |
Spectroscopy module
Alignment marks 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d are formed on the flat plane 11a of the peripheral edge portion 11 formed integrally with the diffracting layer 8, and when the lens portion 7 is mounted onto the substrate 2, these alignment marks 12a, 12b, 12c and 12d are positioned to the substrate 2, thereby making exact alignment of the diffracting layer 8 with respect to the light detecting portion 4a of the light detecting element 4, for example, not by depending on a difference in curvature radius of the lens portion 7. In particular, the alignment marks 12a, 12b, 12c and 12d are formed on the flat plane 11a, thereby image recognition is given to exactly detect positions of the alignment marks 12a, 12b, 12c and 12d, thus making it possible to make exact alignment. |
| US07961314B2 |
Methods and systems for simultaneous real-time monitoring of optical signals from multiple sources
Methods and systems for real-time monitoring of optical signals from arrays of signal sources, and particularly optical signal sources that have spectrally different signal components. Systems include signal source arrays in optical communication with optical trains that direct excitation radiation to and emitted signals from such arrays and image the signals onto detector arrays, from which such signals may be subjected to additional processing. |
| US07961311B2 |
Detecting and counting bacteria suspended in biological fluids
System and method for detecting and counting bacteria suspended in a biological fluid by means of light scattering measurements is provided. In accordance with the method of the invention the level of signal to noise of the measured intensities of light scattered by a sample of the biological fluid is significantly enhanced for forwardly scattered light within a range of scattering angles which are smaller compared to a predefined maximal scattering angle. The system of the invention includes a cuvette adapted to contain a sample of the biological fluid whose sidewalls and windows are suitably constructed and arranged to significantly reduce the level of reflected light obscuring the scattering patterns measured within the range of scattering angles considered. |
| US07961309B2 |
Metrology tool, system comprising a lithographic apparatus and a metrology tool, and a method for determining a parameter of a substrate
A metrology tool is arranged to measure a parameter of a substrate that has been provided with a pattern in a lithographic apparatus. The metrology tool includes a base frame, a substrate table, a sensor, a displacement system, a balance mass, and a bearing. The substrate table is constructed and arranged to hold the substrate. The sensor is constructed and arranged to measure a parameter of the substrate. The displacement system is configured to displace the substrate table or the sensor with respect to the other in a first direction. The bearing is configured to movably support the first balance mass so as to be substantially free to translate in a direction opposite of the first direction in order to counteract a displacement of the substrate table or sensor in the first direction. |
| US07961298B2 |
Polarization rotator and a crystalline-quartz plate for use in an optical imaging system
A polarization rotator and crystalline quartz plate for use with an optical imaging system. The system has several imaging optical components (L1-L16) sequentially arranged along an optical axis (16), a means for creating radially polarized light arranged at a given location in that region extending up to the last of said imaging optical components, and a crystalline-quartz plate employable in such a system. A polarization rotator (14) for rotating the planes of polarization of radially polarized light and transforming same into tangentially polarized light, particularly in the form of a crystalline-quartz plate as noted above, is provided at a given location within a region commencing where those imaging optical components that follow said means for creating radially polarized light in the optical train are arranged. The optical imaging system is particularly advantageous when embodied as a microlithographic projection exposure system. |
| US07961295B2 |
Exposure apparatus, measurement method, stabilization method, and device fabrication method
The present invention provides an exposure apparatus including a projection optical system configured to project a reticle pattern onto a wafer, a selector configured to select a dummy wafer to be placed near an image plane of the projection optical system, from a plurality of dummy wafers having the same shape as that of the wafer and different reflectance with each other, a transfer unit configured to place the dummy wafer selected by the selector near the image plane of the projection optical system, and a controller configured to perform control such that dummy exposure is performed by irradiating the dummy wafer, which is placed near the image plane of the projection optical system by the transfer unit, with light via the projection optical system. |
| US07961293B2 |
Lithographic apparatus and device manufacturing method
In an immersion lithography apparatus or device manufacturing method, the position of focus of the projected image is changed during imaging to increase focus latitude. In an embodiment, the focus may be varied using the liquid supply system of the immersion lithographic apparatus. |
| US07961292B2 |
Sub-resolution assist devices and methods
Photolithographic apparatus, systems, and methods that make use of sub-resolution assist devices are disclosed. In the various embodiments, an imaging mask includes an optically transmissive substrate having a sub-resolution assist device that further includes a first optical attenuation region and a spaced-apart second optical attenuation region, and an optically transmissive phase adjustment region interposed between the first optical attenuation region and the second optical attenuation region, the phase adjustment region being configured to change a phase of incident illumination radiation by altering an optical property of the substrate. |
| US07961284B2 |
Liquid crystal display and method for manufacturing the same
A method of manufacturing a liquid crystal display, the method including the steps of preparing a substrate, forming a first pattern on a first print roll, forming a first print pattern using the first print roll applied in a first direction, forming a second pattern on a second print roll, and forming a second print pattern using the second print roll applied in a second direction. |
| US07961282B2 |
Liquid crystal display device having conductive layers in a groove portion between a sealing region and a display region
An LCD device has a pair of substrates including orientation films on surfaces thereof which face opposing substrates. The substrate on which signal lines are formed, on a side thereof which is disposed between a region on which sealing material is arranged and a display region and along which the signal lines extend to the outside of the sealing material from the display region, includes a first conductive layer, a second conductive layer and an insulation layer which is interposed therebetween. The insulation layer extends in the direction at least along an outer periphery of the display region, and includes groove portion having a recessed groove which opens on the orientation film side. The first conductive layer is covered on the surface of the recessed groove. The signal lines are formed in a state that the signal lines go around the recessed groove. |
| US07961277B2 |
Display panel and the mother substrate thereof
A display panel using laser cutting technology and a mother substrate thereof are provided. The display panel comprises two base plates opposite to each other, a sealant and a buffering metal layer. The sealant is disposed between the two base plates. The buffering metal layer formed on the inside surface of at least one of the two base plates is disposed along the sealant. At least a portion of the buffering metal layer is positioned outside the sealant. There is a first distance between the rim of the buffering metal layer and the edge of the base plate. |
| US07961275B2 |
In-plane switching liquid crystal display device and method of fabricating the same
An in-plane switching liquid crystal display device includes a liquid crystal display panel having first and second substrates, a first polarizer disposed at a first surface of the liquid crystal display panel and having a first protective film, a first polarizing film, and a second protective film, a second polarizer disposed at a second surface of the liquid crystal display panel and having a third protective film, a second polarizing film, and a fourth protective film, and a first optical compensation film between the first polarizer and the liquid crystal display panel, the third protective film being adjacent to the liquid crystal display panel and having a substantially zero retardation value. |
| US07961269B2 |
Optical modulation element unit, projection optical unit, and image projection apparatus
An optical modulation element unit is disclosed which employs a film-type optical function member and a reflective optical modulation element and allows dust prevention for the reflective optical modulation element while preventing an increased number of parts other than optically required parts. The optical modulation element unit includes a light-transmissive substrate, a film-type optical function member attached to the light-transmissive substrate, a reflective optical modulation element separately placed from the light-transmissive substrate, a cover member which surrounds a space between the light-transmissive substrate and the reflective optical modulation element, and a holding member which holds the light-transmissive substrate. The holding member has a guide portion which guides an air flow to a space along a surface of the light-transmissive substrate, the surface being a surface on the side opposite to the reflective optical modulation element. |
| US07961264B2 |
Pixel electrode structure for a liquid crystal display with a high aperture ratio
A pixel electrode structure for a liquid crystal display with a high aperture ratio increases the aperture ratio and eliminates Mura phenomenon. Any two adjacent pixel electrodes are disconnected to each other. Each pixel electrode comprises a first-lengthwise periphery that overlaps a first-adjacent data line to form a first overlapping portion, and a second-lengthwise periphery that overlaps a second-adjacent data line to form a second overlapping portion. The first-lengthwise periphery and the second-lengthwise periphery have an identical triangle-wave profile and are symmetrical to each other. The triangle-wave profile is formed by connecting a plurality of right-angled and equilateral triangles. |
| US07961262B2 |
Liquid crystal display and manufacturing method thereof
A liquid crystal display (LCD) and a manufacturing method thereof. The LCD comprises a color filter substrate, an array substrate disposed opposite to the color filter substrate, and a liquid crystal layer sealed between the two substrates, wherein a conductive nano-particle is introduced between the two substrates. |
| US07961259B2 |
Imaging apparatus
An imaging apparatus includes: a camera having a lens barrel incorporating an imaging device and a photographic optical system for introducing a subject image to the imaging device; a bracket for supporting the camera; a guide member attached onto the camera, the guide member having a cylindrical surface extending about an axis of the lens barrel in a state in which the guide member is attached on the camera; a plurality of bearing members provided to the bracket and supporting the cylindrical surface so that the cylindrical surface is rotatable about the axis of the lens barrel; and a fixing device for fixing the camera to the bracket. |
| US07961258B2 |
Image display apparatus having sound level control function and control method thereof
The present invention relates in general to an video display apparatus, more particularly, to an video display apparatus having an sound level control function according to program genre or speaker of a received broadcast program. |
| US07961256B2 |
System and method for bad weave detection for inverse telecine
A system and method for bad weave detection for inverse telecine. To detect a bad weave artifact, the number of reversals of the difference polarity between successive lines within a column of samples is counted. The count of the number of reversals of the difference polarity is referred to as the polarity change count. In the execution phase, the polarity change count can be used by a bad weave detector to take a system out of lock. The polarity change count can also be used during the detection phase to detect a particular cadence. |
| US07961242B2 |
Imaging device, display controller, and display apparatus
An imaging device includes a display unit for displaying an image, an imaging optical system, an imaging unit, a posture detector for detecting a posture of the imaging device in shooting, a recording unit for recording a reduced image of a shot image, and posture information on a posture of the imaging device corresponding to the reduced image, an image extracting unit for extracting reduced images including the same posture information among said reduced images recorded on the recording unit, and an image display controller for displaying the reduced images extracted by the image extracting unit on the display unit, wherein the image display controller reconstructs, on the basis of the posture information, a horizontal and vertical direction of the reduced images extracted by the image extracting unit to the posture of the imaging device in shooting, and displays the reduced image being reconstructed on the display unit. Thereby, that makes it possible to display a comfortable reduced image. |
| US07961240B2 |
Image pickup device
A method for driving an image pickup device in which a predetermined voltage which is between a power source voltage and a reference voltage is generated, a voltage of an output signal line to the predetermined voltage is set, and a reset voltage from a pixel circuit is output to the output signal line. |
| US07961236B2 |
Circuit for processing a time-discrete analog signal and image sensor
A circuit for processing an analog signal having a time sequence of discrete signal levels, each of which lies in a time interval and represents an information-bearing segment of the interval while the rest of the time interval is a non-information-bearing segment, comprises a transistor in emitter-follower or source-follower configuration, a high emitter or source resistance or, instead, a high-ohm constant current source, and a device for applying a voltage supply, as well as a switch which is connected between the emitter and a reference potential to prevent a current from flowing via the high-ohm resistance or the high-ohm voltage source for charge reversal of an output capacitance of the circuit in one direction, whereas for charge reversal in the other direction the dynamic current boosting effect of the transistor is exploited. This results in a fast emitter-follower or source-follower circuit which is particularly suitable as the output stage for image sensors. |
| US07961235B2 |
Imaging apparatuses, image data processing methods, and articles of manufacture
Imaging apparatuses, image data processing methods, and articles of manufacture are described. In one aspect, an imaging apparatus including an image sensor having a plurality of color sensor arrays is described. Individual sensor arrays include a plurality of sensors configured to provide image data for a plurality of pixels of a respective color component at an initial resolution. The plurality of color sensor arrays overlap and are offset with respect to one another to define a plurality of sub-pixels for individual ones of the pixels. The imaging apparatus includes processing circuitry configured to access the image data for at least one pixel from each of the plurality of color sensor arrays, and using the accessed image data, to determine sub-pixel image data for the respective sub-pixels to form an image of an increased resolution compared with the initial resolution of the color sensor arrays. |
| US07961231B2 |
Apparatus, method and computer-readable recording medium containing program for photographing
A photographing apparatus includes: a photographing unit having an image pickup device, the photographing unit carrying out first photographing for obtaining a first image with the image pickup device being set in an exposure state, and second photographing for obtaining a second image with the image pickup device being set in a light-shielded state; a correcting unit for correcting the first image based on the second image to obtain a corrected image; and a photographing controlling unit for controlling priorities between new first photographing and the second photographing if an instruction for carrying out the new first photographing is given during the second photographing. |
| US07961229B2 |
Image pickup apparatus and method using visible light and infrared
A digital still camera includes a lens system. A cold mirror separates object light incident on the lens system into a visible light component and an infrared component. A visible light image sensor outputs a first image signal of a visible light image by receiving the visible light component. An infrared light image sensor outputs a second image signal of an infrared image by receiving the infrared component. A contour signal generator extracts a high frequency component from a luminance signal determined according to the second image signal, to produce an edge enhancement signal. An adder adds the edge enhancement signal to a luminance signal determined according to the first image signal. Addition of the edge enhancement signal is adapted to the object light from an object at a far distance. Specifically, the cold mirror reflects the visible light component and transmits the infrared component. |
| US07961228B2 |
Imaging apparatus and method for controlling exposure by determining backlight situations and detecting a face
An imaging apparatus having an automatic exposure function includes: an imaging section which images a photographic subject, and which obtains image data according to the photographic subject; and a controller configured to: judge whether or not imaging conditions at the time of imaging by the imaging section are backlight conditions; perform a first exposure control in which a compensation for the backlight conditions is performed, when the imaging conditions are judged to be the backlight conditions; detect a face of a person from image data generated based on the image data obtained by the imaging section and on a result of the first exposure control; perform a light meter test on a face area of the detected face of the person as a light metering area; and perform a second exposure control in which an exposure-amount based on a result of the light meter test of the face of the person is calculated, and in which an exposure control for recording is performed based on the calculated exposure-amount. |
| US07961226B2 |
System for adapting device standards after manufacture
The present invention provides a digital imaging apparatus having an optical sensor, an analog-to-digital converter, a plurality of computational elements, and an interconnection network. The optical sensor converts an object image into a detected image, which is then converted to digital image information by the analog-to-digital converter. The plurality of computational elements includes a first computational element having a first fixed architecture and a second computational element having a second, different fixed architecture. The interconnection network is capable of providing a processed digital image from the digital image information by configuring and reconfiguring the plurality of computational elements for performance of a plurality of different imaging functions. The invention may be embodied, for example, as a digital camera, a scanner, a printer, or a dry copier. |
| US07961224B2 |
Photon counting imaging system
An imaging device includes first and second photon sensors respectively capture arrival times and locations of individual photons on first and second image planes, while optionally capturing photon colors. A stereoptic distance finder identifies source distance of image elements common to both image planes, while a processor correlates the identified source distances to photons within the image elements. A memory stores the arrival times and locations, the color, and the identified source distances. An orientation sensor captures photon sensor orientation in six degrees of freedom. An image processor selects a time span, identifies photons captured within the time span, defines an image field, divides the image field into virtual pixels, and aggregates the colors of photons arriving within each virtual pixel within the time frame, to determine a color and intensity of the virtual pixel. The image processor also aggregates the virtual pixels to generate an image file. |
| US07961222B2 |
Image capturing apparatus and image capturing method
To provide an image capturing apparatus that detects a camera movement accurately and corrects image blurring appropriately. An image capturing apparatus (200) includes: an image sensor unit (103) that captures and outputs an input image (105); an output unit (121) that outputs an image of a framing area (160) of the input image (105); a motion vector calculation unit (106) and a stationary object detection unit (201) that detect motion vectors in an outer-frame area (161) of the input image (105) and derive detection accuracy; an outer-frame area adjustment unit (205) that adjusts the outer-frame area (161) in size so that the detection accuracy meets an outer-frame area change threshold (tr); and a camera movement calculation unit (113) and a framing area modification unit (115) that move the framing area (160) according to motion vectors in the adjusted outer-frame area (161), irrespective of motion vectors in the other area. |
| US07961216B2 |
Real-time composite image comparator
An apparatus and method for preparing a composite image from a video data stream and for identifying changed features in two composite images. Frames from the video data stream are transformed to a projected 2D image, aligned with adjacent frames and overlapping areas are averaged to provide a higher apparent resolution. The composite image can be stored in real-time. As a second composite image is prepared of the same location at a later time, portions of the second image can be compared to corresponding portions of the stored image after the intensities of the images are equalized. Image areas whose absolute difference exceeds a threshold are again intensity equalized. Areas that are again above threshold can be flagged for further scrutiny, either by a human or by a machine that performs object recognition. In this way, composite video images of a scene can be prepared and compared in real-time. |
| US07961208B2 |
Image forming apparatus, image forming method, and image forming program product
An image is formed by dividing rasterized original image data into regions in accordance with N recording heads, and scanning a recording body by simultaneously irradiating recording beams from the N recording heads. Corrected image data divided into regions in accordance with the recording heads are generated by changing the rasterized original image data based on information including positional displacements of the recording beams, so that the positional displacements are corrected. Scanning information is generated based on the positional displacement information. The scanning information includes positions and orders for the recording beams to scan the recording body to record the corrected image data. |
| US07961206B2 |
Attachment for use in image-forming apparatus to connect external device thereto
An apparatus for image formation is disclosed which includes an imaging device forming images on record media; a housing defining a front face, a rear face, both side faces, a top face and a bottom face, to thereby house the imaging device; a recessed portion configured so as to be openable at selected at least one of the front face, the both side faces and the top face of the housing; and an attachment mechanism allowing a data-storable external storage device to be attached to the apparatus for electrical connection thereto, the attachment mechanism being in a position allowing the external storage device, when attached to the attachment mechanism, to be accommodated within the recessed portion. |
| US07961201B1 |
Method and apparatus for producing graphical machine vision content for distribution via a network
A method and system is provided for viewing machine vision information. The machine vision information includes machine vision data representing a sequence of machine vision processing steps. The machine vision information pertaining to a machine vision process on a given machine vision processor is produced. The machine vision information is displayed at a device remotely located from the given machine vision processor. A selection interface is provided on the device to allow a user to view the machine vision data corresponding to at least one stage of the machine vision processing. |
| US07961191B2 |
Outline font brightness value correction system, method and program
Having an outline font data readout unit read a correction subject pixel and surrounding pixels thereof, referring to the already stored pre-correction and post-correction brightness value pattern data that are related to the read correction subject pixel and surrounding pixels, deriving a post-correction brightness value pattern uniquely from among candidates for a post-correction brightness value pattern of an appropriate value as post-correction brightness value, determining the optimal post-correction brightness value from the uniquely derived post-correction brightness value pattern and outputting correction data based on the determined optimal post-correction brightness value, thereby changing a brightness value of a pixel within a character image giving a look of unnaturalness automatically to a brightness value not giving a look thereof. |
| US07961190B2 |
Colored investment data display system and method
A method and system that provides a unique data display tool for use in the investment area and utilizes color coated entries in various data displays to aid in the client's assimilation of investment data and information. More specifically, the method and system uses a plurality of colors that are superimposed over data contained in various data category displays. Any one category data may contain a number of different such colored overlays. It is between different data displays, the same color would be used for the same data category presented in each display. |
| US07961181B2 |
Light sensing circuit, backlight control apparatus having the same, and liquid crystal display device having the same
A light sensing circuit capable of enhancing a reliability by lowering a dependency on a temperature change without using a resistor, a backlight control apparatus having the same, and an LCD device having the same. The light sensing circuit includes a first MOS-transistor; and a second MOS-transistor serially connected to the first MOS-transistor between a first power terminal and a ground terminal, in which a second power terminal is connected to each gate terminal of the first MOS-transistor and the second MOS-transistor, and an optical amount detecting terminal is connected to a common connection point between a drain terminal of the first MOS-transistor and a source terminal of the second MOS-transistor. |
| US07961179B2 |
Integrated driving apparatus for display apparatus
An integrated driving apparatus having an elongated shape mounted at a peripheral portion of a display apparatus comprising a display section on a panel substrate comprises a logic section, a power supply circuit section, and a D/A converter. The logic section comprises a digital display data processor and a timing signal generator which generates a timing control signal necessary for the display apparatus and the D/A converter converts digital display data obtained by the digital display data processor into analog data. The power supply circuit section generates a power supply voltage used in the display apparatus using a signal from the timing signal generator. The power supply circuit section and the D/A converter are provided on left and right of the logic section with the logic section therebetween so that the power supply circuit section and the D/A converter are placed adjacent to the logic section along a long side direction of the elongated shape of the integrated driving apparatus. |
| US07961177B2 |
Input pen storage
An input pen storage includes a pen holding part coupled to an input pen; a loader having an arm having a pen constraining part for constraining the pen holding part; an obstruct member for expanding the arm; an extendable lock mechanism having an extension state and a return state for constraining a base holding member on the loader; and a forcing member exerting an outward force on the loader. When the loader is displaced to a hold position to change the extendable lock mechanism from the extension state to the return state, the pen constraining part constrains the pen holding part and the extendable lock mechanism constrains the base holding member so that the input pen is held firmly along with the loader. |
| US07961175B2 |
System for computer software interaction using form identity
A system for enabling user interaction with computer software which includes a computer system which transfers print data to a printer. The printer is responsive to the print data to print a form by printing information indicative of a text field coincident with coded data indicative of the text field, so that when a sensing device is moved relative to the text field the sensing device can sense the coded data and generate the indicating data indicative of its movement relative to the text field. The computer system uses the indicating data to determine the movement and then perform an action associated with the text field based on the movement. The coded data is indicative of an identity and the computer system determines the identity using the indicating data and a page description using the identity, and identifies the text field using the page description. |
| US07961161B2 |
Display system comprising a mirror device with micromirrors controlled to operate in intermediate oscillating state
A display system includes a spatial light modulator for displaying a image by the modulation state of a plurality of micromirrors, and a control device for controlling the spatial light modulator. The control device includes a data conversion device for converting the digital image data into non-binary data, and a modulation-control device for generating a modulation control signal for micromirrors depending on the non-binary data, and controlling the spatial light modulator. The modulation state of the micromirrors by the modulation control signal includes modulation by oscillation of the micromirrors. The modulation control signal controls amplitude of the oscillation to be smaller than the maximum amplitude of the micromirrors in the modulation by the oscillation of the micromirrors. The oscillation having smaller amplitude than the maximum amplitude of the micromirrors is repeated by the modulation control signal in an optional time duration or frequency. |
| US07961160B2 |
Display device, a driving method of a display device, and a semiconductor integrated circuit incorporated in a display device
A display device in which a current supplied to a light emitting element is corrected depending on a degradation level of the light emitting element and display variations due to the degradation of each light emitting element are suppressed. Further, according to the display device of the invention, the effect of variations in TFTs is reduced and writing time of a signal is shortened. To achieve the aforementioned display device, according to the invention, a current value supplied to a light emitting element is corrected in accordance with the degradation thereof instead of correcting a video signal. Further, the display device comprises at least a supply source for supplying a corrected current depending on the degradation of a light emitting element and a current source for supplying the corrected current from the supply source to the light emitting element. Moreover, according to such a display device, a first current source of the supply source supplies a corrected current corresponding to the degradation of the least degraded light emitting element of the light emitting elements connected to the same signal line, meanwhile a second current source supplies a corrected current corresponding to the degradation of the most degraded light emitting element of the light emitting elements connected to the same signal line. |
| US07961158B2 |
Constant-current driving circuit
A constant-current driving circuit includes a first current source, a reference voltage generating circuit and an output signal generating circuit. A terminal of the first current source is coupled to a terminal of a first LED string, wherein the terminal of the first current source has a first voltage. The reference voltage generating circuit is used for generating a reference voltage and comparing the first voltage with a first predetermined voltage to generate a first comparing signal to thereby adjust the reference voltage. The output signal generating circuit is used for outputting an output signal to another terminal of the first LED string and receiving the input signal, wherein the output signal generating circuit decides whether or not to output the input signal serving as the output signal according to the comparison result of the reference voltage with the second voltage. |
| US07961155B2 |
Antenna auxiliary support
An antenna auxiliary support is provided, including two tubes, a fixed base, a first fixing element and a second fixing element. One of the tubes is connected to the fixed base and comprises two clipping portions and two gaps. The gaps are disposed between the clipping portions. The tubes are telescopically connected. The clipping portions respectively comprise an inner surface. The inner surface is an uneven surface. The fixed base and the first fixing element are respectively connected to the tubes. The second fixing element is disposed over the clipping portions and the gaps to fix the connecting position of the tubes. |
| US07961151B2 |
Antennas for compact portable wireless devices
Compact portable wireless devices and antennas for compact portable wireless devices are provided. The compact portable wireless device may be part of a piece of sports equipment. A compact portable wireless device may include a transceiver module that is used in communicating with equipment such as a handheld electronic device. An antenna for a compact portable wireless device can have a relatively small size while exhibiting high efficiency. A planar ground structure for the antenna may be formed from a circuit board on which integrated circuits have been mounted. A curved inverted-F resonating element may be attached to the ground structure. A battery may be provided to power the compact portable wireless device. The battery may be used as a parasitic antenna element. |
| US07961146B2 |
Positioning method, computer program, positioning device, and electronic apparatus
A positioning method in a positioning device that calculates a location of the positioning device by executing Kalman filtering includes, acquiring a satellite signal from a positioning satellite; predicting a state vector including a velocity component of the positioning device, and error covariance of the state vector; correcting the velocity component using a difference between a measured value and a predicted value of the reception signal frequency from the positioning satellite; determining accuracy of the corrected velocity component based on the error covariance; setting a velocity condition based on the determined accuracy; judging a moving state of the positioning device by comparing the corrected velocity component and the velocity condition; and calculating the location by executing the Kalman filtering with a filter characteristic changed according to the judged moving state. |
| US07961142B2 |
Present position locating method, positioning device, and electronic instrument
Estimation calculations for calculating an estimated present position are performed twice corresponding to each satellite set. The estimated present position calculated by the second estimation calculations is determined to be a present position candidate corresponding to the target satellite set. In the first estimation calculations corresponding to the first satellite set, the calculated satellite position and estimated pseudo-range of each GPS satellite are stored in caches. In the second estimation calculations, the satellite position of each GPS satellite is read from the cache. In the first estimation calculations corresponding to the second or subsequent satellite set, the satellite position and the estimated pseudo-range of each GPS satellite are read from the caches, and the satellite position and the estimated pseudo-range of the GPS satellite of which the satellite position and the estimated pseudo-range have not been stored in the caches are calculated and stored in the caches. In the second estimation calculations, the satellite position of each GPS satellite is read from the cache. |
| US07961140B2 |
Multi-beam radar sensor
A multi-beam radar sensor has a plurality of antenna elements disposed next to each other, a collective lens situated at a distance in front of the antenna elements, and an additional preliminary focusing lens disposed in such a way that it affects only a portion of the radar radiation transmitted from, and/or received by, the antenna elements. |
| US07961138B1 |
Detecting operational radar angles based on wavelength specific electromagnetic propagation and surface interaction
A detector apparatus, detection system, and method are provided for determining optimum operational angles based on the statistical correlation of wavelength-specific electromagnetic propagation and surface interaction. These techniques can be used within the radar community in both military and commercial radar applications for airborne radar system users to determine optimum operational depression angles based on the purpose of the effort, the operational frequency, and the terrain-type to be encountered. The method requires the user to interface with a standard computer equipped with the commercially available MATLAB® software package where the operation is presented as a graphic user interface (GUI) that once invoked allows the user to set specific parameters corresponding to the desired terrain type. Upon doing so, the algorithms are exercised and the results are displayed in a series of figures identifying the optimum operational angles. |
| US07961133B2 |
System and method for diverting a guided missile
The disclosed system, device, and method for diverting a guided missile generally includes a ground-based sensor array generating tracking data of a guided missile tracking a target. A control node in communication with the ground-based sensor array generates targeting data from the tracking data. A phased array directed-energy unit in communication with the control node radiates the guided missile with variable beam width microwave radiation based on the targeting data received from the control node, where the microwave radiation disrupts an electronic component of the guided missile such that the guided missile discontinues tracking the target. |
| US07961130B2 |
Data look ahead to reduce power consumption
Portions of a digital signal are buffered prior to being provided to a sub-system (e.g., a segmented DAC of a LDD) that is responsive to the digital signal. While being buffered, there is a determination, based on the buffered portions of the digital signal, of when one or more portions of the sub-system and/or another sub-system can be switched from a first state to a second state, where the second state results in less power dissipation than the first state. Additionally, or alternatively, while the portions of the digital signal are being buffered, there can be a determination, based on the buffered portions of the digital signal, of when one or more system related parameters can be adjusted to temporarily reduce power dissipation. Based on results of the determination(s), the state of one or more portions of the sub-system and/or another sub-system is/are selectively switched from the first state to the second state, or vice versa. Eventually, the portions of the digital signal are provided to the sub-system so that the sub-system can respond to the portions of the digital signal. |
| US07961129B2 |
Coupled delta-sigma modulators
An apparatus and method for reducing error in converting a multi-bit signal to a single bit signal. An analog delta-sigma modulator receives an analog signal and converts it to a multi-bit digital signal that is provided to a digital delta-sigma modulator. The digital delta-sigma modulator introduces error by converting the multi-bit signal to a single-bit signal. The error from the conversion is fed back to the analog delta-sigma modulator which incorporates the error information into the analog signal before it is converted to a multi-bit digital signal. |
| US07961128B2 |
Pulse generator and continuous-time sigma-delta modulator
Provided is a clock generator employed in a continuous-time sigma-delta modulator. The clock generator includes an oscillator configured to generate pulses in response to an enable signal, a counter configured to count the number of pulses generated by the oscillator and output the total pulse count, and an output circuit configured to output an inactivated output signal if the pulse count of the counter is equal to a pulse-width control bit. The oscillator includes an astable multi-vibrator. Since the astable multi-vibrator capable of generating a low-jitter pulse from a jittered clock is used as the oscillator, a signal-to-noise ratio is improved. A simple configuration using only digital circuits makes it easier to design a circuit and adjust pulse width. Moreover, according to the structure of the astable multi-vibrator, it is possible to design a circuit to optimally modulate pulse width in connection with process variations of resistors and capacitors used in the continuous-time sigma-delta modulator. |
| US07961127B2 |
Variable gain stage having same input capacitance regardless of the stage gain
A programmable gain amplifier (PGA) includes a sample-and-hold (S&H) stage which provides an input capacitance value for storing a charge. The PGA also includes an amplifying stage, which has a gain dependent on the input capacitance value. The amplifying stage is configured to provide a variable gain, while the S&H stage is configured to provide a substantially constant input capacitance value, regardless of the gain. |
| US07961125B2 |
Method and apparatus for dithering in multi-bit sigma-delta digital-to-analog converters
A multi-bit (M-bit, M>1) Sigma-Delta digital-to-analog converter (DAC) with a variable resolution multi-bit quantizer that has its digital value inputs that are truncated or rounded to a resolution that follows a random or pseudo-random sequence to provide automatic dynamic dithering for removing undesired idle tones in the analog output of the Sigma-Delta DAC. Random numbers N(n) between 1 and M are provided, and M−N(n) least significant bits in each M-bit digital value at the output of the quantizer are forced to zero with a digital truncator or rounder. The random numbers N(n) may be provided by a random or pseudo-random sequence generator, e.g., Galois linear feedback shift register in combination with digital comparators and an adder. |
| US07961124B1 |
Timing loop based on analog to digital converter output and method of use
A device and process to compensate for asymmetrical qualities of an analog input signal, if present, and generate a timing signal. The timing signal is then used for analog to digital conversion. |
| US07961119B1 |
Memory efficient indexing for disk-based compression
A network optimization device may receive a stream of data and generate a signature for a plurality of fixed length overlapping windows of the stream of data. The device may select a predetermined number of the generated signatures for each Ln-byte segment of the data stream, wherein Ln is greater than a length of each of the windows. The network device may store the selected signatures in a bucketed hash table that includes a linked-list of entries for each bucket. |
| US07961115B2 |
System for displaying required navigation performance on a horizontal situation indicator
A display system is provided that renders a horizontal situation indicator that includes required navigation performance (RNP) and estimated position uncertainty (EPU) values rendered non-numerically and in a fairly intuitive manner. A processor receives at least data representative of a desired course of the aircraft, data representative of the RNP for the aircraft, and data representative of the EPU for the aircraft. The processor renders, on a display device, a horizontal situation indicator that includes an aircraft symbol representative of a top-down view of the aircraft, an RNP boundary graphic representative of at least one RNP boundary for the aircraft, and an EPU graphic representative of the EPU for the aircraft. The aircraft symbol is rendered at a position that is representative of actual aircraft position relative to the desired course, and the RNP boundary graphic is rendered at a position relative to the rendered aircraft symbol. |
| US07961111B2 |
Home control protection system
A home control protection system includes at least one surge protection strip having a plurality of power outlet receptacles, and a wall mountable central control unit that is in electrical communication with the at least one surge protection strip. The surge protection strip includes a replaceable surge protector module. The surge protection strip includes a circuit for detecting and counting the number of power surges which are shunted by the surge protector module, and compares the number of power surges with a predetermined threshold power surge number that corresponds to a predicted maximum number of power surges before failure of the surge protector module will occur. |
| US07961106B2 |
Method for constructing location management system using RFID series
The present invention relates to a method for constructing location management system using RFID series. In particular, the present invention provides RFID series to complete work with a little time and workforce without confusion by concurrently installing a number of RFID tags, even where a number of RFID tags are required in order to constitute an RFID system, and a method for constructing a system to effectively manage the location of an objective space using RFID series, wherein additional drawings (or computerized drawings) for an objective space are nor required even where RFID tags are attached over a considerably wide space, but rather drawings for location management system of an objective space can be produce by attaching RFID tags. |
| US07961103B2 |
Wireless tag and electrically conductive pipe having wireless tag
A wireless tag adapted for mounting inside a hollow electrically conductive pipe, includes: a contact placed in contact with the electrically conductive pipe so as to be electrically connected to the electrically conductive pipe; a lead wire placed inside the electrically conductive pipe along a longitudinal direction of the electrically conductive pipe and spaced a prescribed distance away from an inside wall of the electrically conductive pipe, thereby forming a coaxial line together with the electrically conductive pipe; and a wireless tag circuit, electrically connected at one end to the contact and at the other end to the lead wire, for generating a response signal in response to an interrogation signal transmitted from a reader/writer. |
| US07961099B2 |
Tamper-resistant article security device and method
A method and device for protecting an article, wherein the security device has belt having a latch mating element. A magnetically actuable locking mechanism has a magnetically actuable latch and a flexible element. The magnetically actuable latch includes a lower surface having at least one protrusion extending there from and adapted to engage with the latch mating element of the belt, and a front surface adjacent the lower surface. The front surface has a lateral notch formed therein. The flexible element biases the magnetically actuable latch and the belt into a locked position. A housing has the magnetically actuable latch disposed therein and housing includes a passageway therein defining a belt pathway configured to slidingly receive the belt therein. |
| US07961095B2 |
Method and apparatus for a cooperative alarm network
Devices and methods using wireless or wired network communications to form cooperative alarm networks centered on themselves. Intrusion detection alarms broadcast signals notifying other intrusion detection alarms of its status. When an alarm system experiences a security event, such as an attempted break-in, it notifies its network of its security event and other alarm systems within a cooperative network commence security measures, such as honking horns and flashing headlights. The cooperative response of the networked alarm systems increases decibel level and, in turn, the likelihood of a deterrent intervention, such as the perpetrator being apprehended, as well as increases the deterrence capability of the alarm systems. |
| US07961093B2 |
Wireless sensor system and method
The invention is a wireless sensor system coupled with sensors to non-invasively monitor external stimuli. By monitoring the outputs of sensors, the output data can be used to activate an alarm or logged for further diagnoses of human conditions. |
| US07961092B2 |
Active wireless tag and auxiliary device for use with monitoring center for tracking individuals or objects
The invention is directed to a location tracking device and auxiliary device for use with a monitoring center for tracking individuals or objects. The location tracking device has position determining circuitry and first wireless circuitry that communicates position data representative of the location of the tracking device to a remote location (e.g., a monitoring station). The tracking device also has second wireless circuitry that communicates with the auxiliary device. The tracking device has at least two operational modes and switches between these modes when communication is established between the tracking device and the auxiliary device so long as one or more predetermined conditions are satisfied. In one operational mode the position determining circuitry of the location tracking device is in a normal power state and in another operational mode such circuitry is in a reduced power state. |
| US07961091B2 |
Method for synchronizing frequency-hopping short-range radio devices
A method for synchronizing a security system control panel and a sensor. The control panel and the sensor each have a transceiver. The control panel monitors a publicly broadcast signal for an time signal, periodically receives the time signal, calculates a frequency hopping index pointer using the time signal and accesses a frequency hopping table using the frequency hopping index pointer. The frequency hopping table is used by the control panel to determine when to hop between multiple receiving channels and which of the receiving channels to hop. The sensor wakes up from a standby mode when the sensor determines that the sensor is to send data, receives the publicly broadcast signal that includes a time signal, selects the channel that the control panel is actively receiving data using the time signal and transmits the data to the control panel using the selected channel. |
| US07961090B2 |
Method and system for controlling LED with power line carrier
A method and a system for controlling LED with power line carrier are disclosed. The system contains a host controller, an electric power conductor, and at least a luminous device, and the luminous device further containing an environmental data collection module. The method comprises the steps of providing a power line carrier module to both the host controller and the luminous devices; the luminous devices detecting a set of environmental data by the environmental data collection module; the luminous devices transmitting the set of environmental data to the host controller; the host controller recording and analyzing the set of environmental data; and the host controller sending a control signal to the luminous devices according to the analysis. Therein the control signal and the set of environmental data are transmitted by the power line carrier module through the electric power conductor. |
| US07961082B2 |
Tire inflation pressure detection system
Transceiver ID information associated with a subject vehicle is accurately registered even when another vehicle having transceivers is nearby. During ID registration, a degree of a variance among received strength data elements is obtained in relation to a plurality of transceivers each having ID information associated therewith. ID information associated with data elements having a small degree of a variance is recognized as ID information of a transceiver attached to the subject vehicle. Therefore, ID information associated with transceivers attached to the subject vehicle can be reliably discriminated from ID information associated with transceivers attached to another vehicle. |
| US07961081B2 |
Anti-theft system and method
A system and apparatus for detecting unauthorized movement of a moveable object where the system includes a GPS receiver, cellular modulator, processor, pager modem, sensor and two-way pager. When the system is coupled to a moveable object and is armed via the pager, the sensor is monitored by the processor to determine when a possible theft of the moveable object may be occurring. In an embodiment, the sensor is a multiple axis accelerometer. In one embodiment the accelerometer is a two axes accelerometer where the sensor detects small movements of the object is two axes. When the sensor is triggered, the processor pages the two-way pager. The processor also determines the system's location via the GPS receiver. The processor generates a message including the system's location and unique system identifier. The processor transmits the message to a monitoring center via a cellular network (and the cellular modulator). In one embodiment, the message is a text message and transmitted using a GSM, GPRS, or Short Messaging Service cellular based network. |
| US07961076B2 |
Methods and apparatuses for remote control of vehicle devices and vehicle lock-out notification
Methods, systems, and media for remote control of a vehicle device and vehicle lockout notification are disclosed. Embodiments comprise a method of creating a secure bidirectional communication link between a remote access device and a central locking unit (CLU) of a vehicle, enabling the central locking unit to authenticate a user of the remote access device to manipulate a device of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the CLU may wait for an access attempt from a mobile device. In other embodiments, the CLU monitor vehicle conditions, detect a lockout condition, and alert the user before authenticating and granting vehicle access. Embodiments utilize private and shared key encryption methods to facilitate securely passing an access code between the CLU and the remote access device. Some embodiments authenticate the user by voice verification, while other embodiments may use personal identification numbers. |
| US07961074B2 |
Load cell
The load cell includes a strain generating body having a strain generated portion, and a strain detection element provided on a surface of the strain generating body in a portion corresponding to the strain generated portion and having an inversion portion and a straight portion. A creep characteristic is adjusted by a thickness of the strain generated portion in a portion corresponding to the inversion portion. |
| US07961072B2 |
Inductive element
An inductive element comprises at least two core-parts including a magnetically permeable material and at least one winding of an electrical conductor which can be a foil winding, a stranded wire (litz) winding or a conventional wire winding. Each core-part has an elongated center piece with an outer winding surface. At each of its longitudinal ends, the center piece has a contact element with a lateral contact surface. The winding is wound directly on the core-parts without a bobbin or the-like. The core-parts of the inductive element are arranged with their longitudinal axes essentially in parallel in a manner that the lateral contact surfaces of each contact element abut on a lateral contact surface of another core-part. Such an inductive element can be manufactured by co-axially arranging the core-parts and using them as a roll-shaft. After the windings have been applied to the core-parts, they can be rearranged, i.e. “flipped over,” in a stack-like arrangement in order to form an inductive element. |
| US07961070B2 |
Inductor
An inductor has a case having an opening, a core accommodated in the case, a coil wound on a part of the core and a fixing member fixed to the case. The fixing member fixes the core by contacting a top surface of the core facing the opening and elastically biasing the core toward a bottom surface of the case. The fixing member further includes a first plate portion and a first contacting portion. The first plate portion is disposed between the top surface of the core and the opening of the case and extending in parallel with the top surface of the core. The first contacting portion extends from a fore-end portion of the first plate portion so as to be U-shaped and having a distal end portion elastically push-contacting the top surface of the core. |
| US07961069B2 |
Magnetic attachment system
A magnetic attachment system for attaching a first object to a second object. A first magnet structure is attached to the first object and a second magnet structure is attached to the second object. The first and second objects are attached by virtue of the magnetic attraction between the first magnet structure and second magnet structure. The magnet structures comprise magnetic elements arranged in accordance with patterns based on various codes. In one embodiment, the code has certain autocorrelation properties. In further embodiments the specific type of code is specified. In a further embodiment, an attachment and a release configuration may be achieved by a simple movement of the magnet structures. |
| US07961064B2 |
Directional coupler including impedance matching and impedance transforming attenuator
The present invention provides a compact weakly coupled directional coupler combined with an integrated impedance transformation and matching circuit where the impedance transformation and matching circuit facilitates the fabrication of a highly miniaturized directional coupler with optimum electrical performance where the physical dimensions of the coupled transmission lines fall inside the constraints of the fabrication process. |
| US07961058B2 |
Frequency divider using an injection-locking-range enhancement technique
A locking range enhancement technique is described that steers away part of the DC current and reuses it to generate more injected AC current to the injection-locked resonator-based frequency dividers (ILFDs). The injection-enhanced ILFDs maintain the key features of ILFDs, which are high speed and low power consumption, without requiring any extra inductive component and thus extra chip area. |
| US07961057B2 |
Voltage controlled oscillator
An integrated circuit and an apparatus are provided. The integrated circuit comprises a bias circuit, an LC resonator circuit, and a current mode logic (CML) frequency divider. The bias circuit generates first and second bias voltages. The LC resonator circuit generates an oscillation signal having an oscillation frequency. The CML frequency divider, coupled to the bias circuit and the LC resonator circuit, biased by the first and second bias voltages, receives the oscillation signal to generate an output signal having an output frequency with a fractional rate of the oscillation frequency. The oscillation signal comprises AC and DC components, the CML frequency divider receives the AC component to determine an injected frequency and reuses the DC component to provide tail currents to determine a natural frequency of the CML frequency divider. The output frequency is determined by the injected frequency and the natural frequency. |
| US07961056B2 |
Low phase noise voltage controlled oscillator
Embodiments of the present invention include a low phase noise oscillator circuit using a current-reuse technique to reduce power consumption and improve phase noise, where the oscillator circuit comprises a first VCO coupled to a second VCO, and the outputs of the first and second VCOs are coupled with passive elements, such as capacitors. The overall power consumption of both the first and second VCOs is about the same as a single VCO. Furthermore, the phase noise is lowered by around 3 dB. Thus, the phase noise performance is improved without increasing the power consumption of the oscillator circuit. |
| US07961055B2 |
PLL circuit and oscillator device
A phase locked loop circuit includes an oscillator part configured to generate a reference signal by amplifying a signal generated by an oscillator, and a phase locked loop part configured to include a filter that outputs a control signal to a clock transmitting circuit that generates a clock signal in accordance with a phase difference between the reference signal and a feedback signal, wherein a drive capability of the oscillator part is controlled in accordance with the control signal. |
| US07961053B1 |
Integrated circuit having a dummy transimpedance amplifier
Consistent with the present disclosure, a “dummy” transimpedance amplifier (dummy TIA) is provided on a substrate along with one or more other transimpedance amplifiers (TIAs) that are connected to photodiodes and output voltage signals for further processing. Typically, the dummy TIA is not connected to a photodiode and does not supply a useful output. The dummy TIA, however, is subject to the same processing and temperature variations as the other TIAs, and, as a result, the voltage on the dummy TIA inverting input will be the same or substantially the same as that of the other TIAs. Thus, by sensing the dummy TIA inverting input voltage, an appropriate photodiode bias can be obtained without direct measurement of the voltage on the inverting inputs of the other TIAs. |
| US07961049B2 |
Amplifier with compensated gate bias
An amplifier circuit includes an amplifier stage (10) having an amplifier transistor (104) with a gate coupled to an input (100) of the amplifier stage, a source coupled to a reference connection (gnd) and a drain coupled to a positive power supply connection (V+). The amplifier circuit includes a bias stage (12) having a bias transistor (120), a drain resistance (124) and a source resistance (122). The bias transistor includes a gate coupled to a negative power supply connection (V−), a source coupled to the negative power supply connection (V−) via the source resistance and a drain coupled to the reference connection via the drain resistance and to the gate of the amplifier transistor. The bias stage includes a further resistance (20, 22) coupled from a node between the source of the bias transistor and the source resistance of the bias transistor to a circuit node that carries a voltage higher than the voltage at the negative power supply connection. |
| US07961047B2 |
Switching amplifier
An amplifier having at least one switch controlled by an output voltage of a hysteresis block, wherein the hysteresis block is adapted to receive an input voltage signal based on an integration of an error signal, a low threshold voltage and a high threshold voltage, and is arranged to change the output voltage from a first value to a second value when the input voltage signal is higher than the high threshold voltage and to change the output voltage from the second value to the first value when the input voltage signal is lower than the low threshold voltage, and wherein the low threshold voltage is equal to Vref−αVDD and the high threshold voltage is equal to Vref+αVDD, where Vref is a common mode voltage level, α is a non-zero constant, and VDD is a power supply voltage. |
| US07961046B2 |
Distortion compensating amplifier and front-end distortion compensation amplifying device
A distortion compensating amplifier including a forward circuit and a feedback circuit and performing distortion compensation of a signal in the forward circuit by use of a gain of the feedback circuit, includes a detecting unit which detects that the gain of the forward circuit is changed, a calculating unit which calculates, when the detecting unit detects that the gain of the forward circuit is changed, the gain of the feedback circuit on the basis of an input signal to the forward circuit and an output signal from the forward circuit, and a feedback gain updating unit which updates the present gain of the feedback circuit with the gain calculated by the calculating unit. |
| US07961044B2 |
Amplifier
An amplifier includes: a variable gain unit that adjusts an amplitude of an input signal and outputs a first signal; an amplitude limiting unit that limits an amplitude of the first signal and outputs a second signal set to have an amplitude of a first amplitude value or less; an amplifying unit that amplifies the second signal to output the amplified second signal as an output signal; and a control unit that detects when the first signal has an amplitude of a second amplitude value or more to control a gain of the variable gain unit so that the amplitude of the first signal becomes less than the second amplitude value, the second amplitude value being larger than the first amplitude value. |
| US07961041B2 |
System and method for generating a reference voltage
In one embodiment, a circuit having a chopper stabilized amplifier and a network coupled in feedback with the chopper stabilized amplifier is disclosed. The circuit also has a plurality of switches coupled to an output of the chopper stabilized amplifier, and a summing network coupled to the plurality of switches. Ones of the plurality of switches are coupled to ones of a plurality of the summing network inputs. |
| US07961038B2 |
Digital proportional integral loop filter
A digital proportional integral loop filter is provided. A first proportional amplification unit multiplies a phase error value by a first proportional loop gain, and a first integral amplification unit multiplies a phase error accumulation value by a first integral loop gain. A second proportional amplification unit multiplies the phase error value by a second proportional loop gain, and a second integral amplification unit multiplies the phase error accumulation value by a second integral loop gain. A first offset value generation unit generates a first offset value by subtracting the second proportional loop gain from the first proportional loop gain and multiplying a resulting value by a phase error average value, and a second offset value generation unit generates a second offset value by subtracting the second integral loop gain from the first integral loop gain and multiplying a resulting value by a phase error accumulation average value. |
| US07961035B2 |
Boosting circuit
Provided is a boosting circuit having a small circuit scale. When a node (Vg) is reset by a reset transistor (M3) after a boosting operation has been finished, the reset transistor (M3) is controlled based on a power supply voltage to reset the node (Vg). Therefore, another boosted voltage is not required for the reset, and hence an additional boosting circuit required for the another boosted voltage is unnecessary as well. As a result, the circuit scale of the boosting circuit is reduced correspondingly to the additional boosting circuit. |
| US07961031B2 |
Semiconductor switch circuit
A semiconductor switch circuit is provided that enables current consumption to be reduced even in a conduction state. A semiconductor switch circuit 100 has P-type MOS transistors Q101 and Q102 for conduction that share a source and are connected in series between an input/output terminal 101 and input/output terminal 102, a P-type MOS transistor Q103 and N-type MOS transistor Q105 having drains connected to the gate of Q101, a P-type MOS transistor Q104 and N-type MOS transistor Q106 having drains connected to the gate of Q102, and a control terminal 103 connected to the gates of the transistors. Further semiconductor switch circuit 100 is configured with the sources and back gates of Q103 and Q104 connected to the sources of Q101 and Q102. Therefore, it is possible to switch the path between input/output terminal 101 and input/output terminal 102 between a conduction state and non-conduction state by means of voltage control by voltage value Vcont of a control signal applied to control terminal 103. |
| US07961025B2 |
Current-mode phase rotator with partial phase switching
In one illustrative embodiment, an apparatus for a current-mode phase rotator with partial input phase switching comprises a mixer, wherein the mixer is a four quadrant current-mode mixer comprised of four interpolation buffers, wherein each interpolation buffer receives as input a clock phase from a set of four equidistant clock phases, and a set of two-output current-steering digital to analog converters that supply tail currents to the mixer wherein a first digital to analog converter has additional switches to connect each of two outputs to one of two polarities of a given clock while each remaining digital to analog converter has no additional switches and has two outputs supplying current only to two different polarities of a same clock phase wherein steering the current during incremental rotation about a phase circle defines an octagonal shaped phase envelope. |
| US07961023B2 |
Pulse width modulation sequence maintaining maximally flat voltage during current transients
A digital circuit implementing pulse width modulation controls power delivered in what one can model as a second order or higher order system. An exemplary control plant could embody a step-down switch mode power supply providing a precise sequence of voltages or currents to any of a variety of loads such as the core voltage of a semiconductor unique compared to its input/output ring voltage. One of several algorithms produce a specific predetermined sequence of pulses of varying width such that the voltage maintains maximally flat characteristics while the current delivered to the load from the system plant varies within a range bounded only by inductive element continuous conduction at the low power extreme and non-saturation of the inductor core at the high power extreme. The specific pulse width modulation sequence controls a plant such that the voltage maintains maximally flat characteristics in one embodiment without a feed-forward or feedback loop physically embodied in the control system thereby reducing the parts cost or control semiconductor production yield cost while enhancing noise immunity and long term reliability of the control system. Several specific algorithms maintain maximally flat voltage despite extreme load variations therewith control plant element parameters otherwise exacerbating excessive voltage fluctuation during the given current transients. |
| US07961019B2 |
Delay-lock loop and method adapting itself to operate over a wide frequency range
A delay-lock loop receives an input clock signal from the output of a programmable divider that receives a reference clock signal. The delay-lock loop includes a voltage-controlled delay line generating a plurality of delayed clock signals having different phases. A plurality of the delayed clock signals are combined to generate a plurality of output signals. During an initialization period, an initialization circuit sets the delay of the delay line to a minimum delay value and then compares this delay value to the period of the input clock signal. Based on this comparison, the initialization circuit programs the programmable divider and adjusts the number of delayed clock signals combined to generate the output signals. More specifically, as the frequency of the reference clock signal increases, the divider is programmed to divide by a greater number, and a larger number of delay clock signals are combined to generate the output signals. |
| US07961018B2 |
Semiconductor device including delay locked loop having periodically activated replica path
A delay locked loop adapted to delay an external clock signal and to output an internal clock signal, the delay locked loop including a renewal signal generator that outputs a renewal signal that is selectively activated and inactivated, a replica path that is active when the renewal signal is activated and is inactive when the renewal signal is inactivated, the replica path delaying the internal clock signal by a delay time of a normal path of a semiconductor device to output a replica internal clock signal when the renewal signal is activated, a control signal generator adapted to vary and to output a delay control signal according to a phase difference between the external and the replica internal clock signals, and a variable delay circuit adapted to delay the external clock signal by a time corresponding to the delay control signal and to output the internal clock signal. |
| US07961017B2 |
DLL circuit and method of controlling the same
A delay locked loop (DLL) circuit includes a first feedback loop configured to delay a reference clock signal with a delay line, wherein the first feedback loop is further configured to generate a correction clock signal by correcting a duty cycle of the reference clock signal by adjusting a delay of the delay line; and a second feedback loop configured to generate an output clock signal by detecting a phase of the reference clock signal and delaying the correction clock signal with a delay according to the detection result. |
| US07961006B2 |
Semiconductor device and electronic apparatus having the same
With an offset circuit including transistors of the same conductivity type, offset of an input signal is performed. Then, the input signal after the offset is supplied to a logic circuit including transistors of the same conductivity type as that of the offset circuit, thereby H and L levels of the input signal can be shifted at the same time. Further, since the offset circuit and the logic circuit are formed using the transistors of the same conductivity type, a display device can be manufactured at a low cost. |
| US07961001B1 |
Impedance adjusting device
An impedance adjusting device includes: a calibration node; a comparison unit configured to compare a reference voltage with a voltage of the calibration node; a counting unit configured to generatean impedance code according to a comparison result of the comparison unit; a reference impedance unit having an impedance value according to the impedance code and connected to the calibration node; a storage unit configured to store the comparison result of the comparison unit upon the generation of the impedance code being completed; an interface node; and a termination unit configured to terminate the interface node, the termination unit including a plurality of parallel resistors configured to be turned on/off according to the impedance code, and a parallel resistor configured to be turned on/off according to a value stored in the storage unit. |
| US07960999B2 |
Methods and systems for evaluating permanent magnet motors
A method for evaluating a permanent magnet motor, which includes a rotor with a plurality of magnets mounted thereon, and a stator with a plurality of windings in proximity to the rotor and coupled to an inverter, includes spinning the motor such that a voltage is induced in the windings of the stator and the inverter; measuring the voltage on the inverter; calculating the voltage constant from the motor from the measured voltage; comparing the voltage constant to accepted voltage constants; and identifying the motor as not acceptable if the voltage constant is outside of a range of the accepted voltage constants. |
| US07960992B2 |
Conveyor-based memory-module tester with elevators distributing moving test motherboards among parallel conveyors for testing
A conveyor-stack test system has motherboards that test memory modules. The motherboards are not stationary but are placed inside movable trays that move along conveyors. A loader-unloader removes tested memory modules from test sockets on the motherboards and inserts untested memory modules into the motherboards using a robotic arm. A conveyor carries the motherboards from the loader-unloader to an elevator. The elevator raises or lowers the motherboards to different levels in a conveyor stack with multiple levels of conveyors each with many test stations. The motherboards move along conveyors in the conveyor stack until reaching test stations. A retractable connector from the test station extends to make contact with a motherboard connector to power up the motherboard, which then tests the memory modules. Test results are communicated from the test station to a host controller, which instructs the loader-unloader to sort the tested memory modules once the motherboard returns. |
| US07960991B2 |
Test apparatus and probe card
Provided is a test apparatus including a test head main body 130 that communicates a signal with the device under test 200, a prober 110 on which the device under test 200 is mounted, and a probe card 300 positioned between the test head main body 130 and the prober 110, where the probe card 300 includes: a plurality of probe pins 320 provided on a surface thereof facing the prober 110 and electrically connected to a terminal of the device under test 200; a plurality of test head pads 330 provided on a surface thereof facing the test head main body 130 and electrically connected to spring pins 129 on the test head main body 130 and to the probe pins 320; and prober pads 340 provided on a surface thereof facing the prober 110 and electrically connected to the plurality of probe pins 320. |
| US07960987B2 |
Operation voltage supply method for semiconductor device
The voltage application probe and the voltage measurement probe are connected to the voltage application pad and the voltage measurement pad of the semiconductor device. The voltage application pad and the voltage measurement pad are connected by the conductor, measuring the voltage applied to the voltage application pad through the voltage measurement probe. The voltage compensation circuit in the voltage development device operates to make the voltage applied to the voltage application pad equal to the set voltage for the voltage development device. Even when the resistance between the voltage application probe and the voltage application pad increases, the accurate setting voltage is applied to the voltage application pad. |
| US07960986B2 |
Methods and apparatus for multi-modal wafer testing
Access to integrated circuits of a wafer for concurrently performing two or more types of testing, is provided by bringing a wafer and an edge-extended wafer translator into an attached state. The edge-extended wafer translator having wafer-side contact terminals and inquiry-side contact terminals disposed thereon, a first set of wafer-side contact terminals being electrically coupled to a first set of inquiry-side contact terminals, and a second set of wafer-side contact terminals being electrically coupled to a second set of inquiry-side contact terminals. The edge-extended wafer translator having a central portion generally coextensive with the attached wafer, and an edge-extended portion extending beyond the boundary generally defined by the outer circumferential edge of the wafer. A first set of pads of at least one integrated circuit is electrically coupled to the first set of wafer-side contact terminals, and a second set of pads of the integrated circuit is electrically coupled to the second set of wafer-side contact terminals. The edge-extended wafer translator may be shaped such that its edge-extended portion is not coplanar with the central portion thereof. |
| US07960975B2 |
Method for detecting the condition of a lamp for heating blank bodies made of thermoplastic material and heating installation arranged for use thereof
The condition of a lamp (1) for heating blank bodies made of thermoplastic material, intended for the manufacture of containers by blow moulding or stretch-blow moulding, is detected. The infrared electromagnetic radiation lamp has an envelope (2) made of glass or quartz enclosing a filament (3); the lamp is provided with an electrically conductive element (6) mechanically integral with the envelope; the conductive element is made electrically live and an electrical variable is continuously detected between the terminals of the conductive element when the lamp is in operation; and data representative of the condition of the conductive element, and of the envelope, is supplied. |
| US07960972B2 |
Coil element selection device for selecting elements of a receiver coil array of a magnetic resonance imaging device
The present invention provides a sensor selection device for selecting sensor elements of a magnetic resonance imaging device, the sensor selection device comprising a provider for providing a first characteristic property (601) of a first sensor element (603) within a predetermined scan volume and for providing a second characteristic property (605) of a second sensor element (607) within the predetermined scan volume (215), a means for determining a mutual quantity from the first characteristic property (601) and from the second characteristic property (605), and a selector for selecting or for excluding the first sensor element (601) or the second sensor element (601) based on the mutual quantity. |
| US07960971B2 |
Method and magnetic resonance system for determining the flip angle distribution in a volume of an examination subject
In a method for determination of flip angle distributions for various antenna transmission configurations in a magnetic resonance system, magnetic resonance measurements are implemented with the various transmission configurations, with the reception configuration being identical for all implemented magnetic resonance measurements, and all magnetic resonance measurements for the various transmission configurations are implemented with a specific pulse sequence. This pulse sequence is selected such that the total function that describes the dependency of the image signal at a specific location on the flip angle achieved at this location with the radiated radio-frequency field, as well as on further MR-relevant parameters, can be factored into a first sub-function that describes the dependency of the image signal on the achieved flip angle and a second sub-function (Tb) that describes the dependency of the image signal on the further MR-relevant parameters, and such that the functional dependency of the image signal on the achieved flip angle is known. The absolute flip angle distribution is measured for a reference transmission configuration, and the flip angle distributions of the other transmission configurations are then respectively determined on the basis of the absolute flip angle distribution of the reference transmission configuration and on the basis of the ratio of the spatially-dependent image signals of the magnetic resonance measurements of the respective transmission configuration to the corresponding spatially-dependent image signals of the magnetic resonance measurement of the reference transmission configuration. |
| US07960968B2 |
Testing method of magnetic head by using inductance
It is an object of the present invention to provide a method for investigating magnetic domains, the method capable of easily grasping behavior of the magnetic domains in a head manufacturing process, and further to provide a testing method of a magnetic head capable of evaluating whether the writing performance of the magnetic head is good or not. The method for investigating magnetic domains comprises supplying direct current (DC) to a coil of an electromagnetic transducer provided in a magnetic head for writing data onto a magnetic recording medium; measuring an inductance of the electromagnetic transducer at each current value while varying the current value of the direct current; and investigating behavior of magnetic domains in a magnetic core of the electromagnetic transducer based on a relationship between the current values and the inductances. The testing method of a magnetic head comprises evaluating whether writing performance of the magnetic head is good or not, based on a relationship between the current values and the inductances. |
| US07960967B2 |
Sealing ring with a pulsar ring for a rotary encoder
A pulsar ring for a rotary encoder has a mounting ring (1) made of a non-magnetic material, with one end being fixed to an inner ring (202) at the rotation side and the other end being positioned in proximity to an outer ring (201) at the stationary side via labyrinth-shaped clearances (G1, G2, G3), a pulsar ring body (2) formed by a synthetic resin material or rubber-like elastic material mixed with magnetic powder, magnetized to have multiple poles, and integrally installed on an inner surface of the mounting ring (1), and a seal ring (3) disposed inside the mounting ring (1), fixed to the inner ring (202) via the mounting ring (1), and slidably in contact with the outer ring (201), whereby the pulsar ring is hardly exposed to disturbances by foreign matters, muddy water, and external magnetic fields from the outside, and consequently can maintain a stable magnetic pattern. |
| US07960966B2 |
State detection device for detecting operation state of high-frequency heating apparatus
An operating state detection technique is provided which makes it possible to accurately detect an abnormality of a high-frequency heating apparatus. An anode current detected by the anode current detection resistor 40 of a magnetron is inputted into the A/D converter terminal of a microcomputer 27 on a control panel circuit board side. The current is subjected to an analog-to-digital conversion to thereby obtain an anode voltage IaDC value. The microcomputer 27 determines an operating state based on a plurality of the anode voltage IaDC values thus read. Further, the microcomputer 27 obtains a summed value of the IaDC values corresponding to one period of the revolution of rotary antennas 68, 69 to thereby determines the operating state of the high-frequency heating apparatus 100 based on the summed value. According to the aforesaid IaDC value reading method, it makes it possible to accurately detect an abnormality without an erroneous operation also in correspondence to the change of the feeding distribution. Further, the microcomputer 27 changes, in accordance with the set output of the high-frequency heating apparatus, a threshold value used for determining the abnormality and a changing value (increasing amount) from the start of the operation with respect to the change of the output of the apparatus and the operating state of a heated subject etc., whereby it makes it possible to accurately detect an abnormality without an erroneous operation. |
| US07960965B2 |
Multimeter having communications via measurement terminals and communication system for same
A multimeter having measurement terminals and configured to receive measurement signals applied to the measurement terminals and a measurement value and also configured to receive communication signals applied to the measurement terminals and extract encoded information from the communication signals. The multimeter can be included in a multimeter communication system having a device coupled to the measurement terminals of the multimeter. The device is configured to generate communication signals having encoded information and provide the communication signals to the measurement terminals of the multimeter. |
| US07960961B2 |
Bandgap circuit with temperature correction
A temperature corrected voltage bandgap circuit is provided. The circuit includes first and second diode connected transistors. A first switched current source is coupled to the one transistor to inject or remove a first current into or from the emitter of that transistor. The first current is selected to correct for curvature in the output voltage of the bandgap circuit at one of hotter or colder temperatures. |
| US07960960B2 |
Irregular voltage detection and cutoff circuit using bandgap reference voltage generation circuit
An irregular voltage detection and cutoff circuit using a bandgap reference voltage generation circuit includes the bandgap reference voltage generation circuit, which generates a bandgap reference voltage from the power-supply voltage, a reference voltage generator, which generates a first reference voltage and a second reference voltage in the same voltage level as the bandgap reference voltage from the power-supply voltage, a voltage detector, which generates a detection voltage from the power-supply voltage, and a comparator, which generates a switching control signal that cuts off the power-supply voltage by comparing the first and second reference voltages with the detection voltage. |
| US07960958B2 |
Voltage regulator feedback protection method and apparatus
An integrated circuit includes an output terminal. A plurality of feedback terminals receives a feedback signal. A voltage regulator has a feedback input in communication with the plurality of feedback terminals to receive the feedback signal. The voltage regulator has a power output in communication with the output terminal. The voltage regulator is responsive to the feedback signal to generate the power output. |
| US07960956B2 |
Controller for DC-DC converters with bypass compensation
A controller is provided for DC-DC converters of the type associated with a half-bridge driving stage of at least one inductive load, with a pair of power MOS transistors in Highside and Lowside configuration being driven by a corresponding converter. The controller includes an input for connection to a terminal of the inductive load. The controller also includes a read block for reading an inductive load phase current at the terminal, an over current comparator having a first input coupled to an output of the read block, and a bypass compensation network including an error amplifier block having a first input coupled to the terminal through a voltage divider, and a second input coupled to a reference potential. The compensation network has an output that is coupled to a second input of the over current comparator, and an output of the over current comparator is supplied to the DC-DC converter. |
| US07960955B2 |
Power supply device, electronic device using the same, and semiconductor device
A linear regulator is provided which stabilizes an input voltage based on a reference voltage source that generates a reference voltage, and the reference voltage generated by the reference voltage. An output voltage of the linear regulator is supplied as a power supply voltage of a switching controller and the reference voltage source. The linear regulator is configured to enable switching of a regulation mode in which voltage is outputted according to the reference voltage, and a bypass mode in which an input voltage is outputted as it is, with no relation to the reference voltage. When a power supply apparatus is started up, during a time period until the input voltage reaches a predetermined threshold voltage, the linear regulator operates in the bypass mode, and when the input voltage exceeds the threshold voltage, operates in the regulation mode. |
| US07960952B2 |
Switching mode power supply and switch thereof
A switching mode power supply and a switch thereof are provided. The switch includes a plurality of first transistors, and a second transistor that is turned on/off by a control signal that is equal to that of the plurality of first transistors and in which a second current corresponding to a first current flowing to the plurality of first transistors flows, wherein a ratio of the first current to the second current sequentially changes from a time point at which the second transistor is turned on. Therefore, a switching mode power supply and a switch thereof that can always uniformly sustain a maximum limit current flowing to the switch regardless of a level of an input voltage without including a special additional circuit can be provided. |
| US07960951B2 |
Digital calibration with lossless current sensing in a multiphase switched power converter
Disclosed is a multi-phase power regulator that accurately senses current at a load in a lossless manner and adjusts the power supplied to the load based on the sensed current. Also disclosed is a method of calibrating a multiphase voltage regulator by applying a known calibration current at the load and determining actual current values by the difference in measured values between when the known calibration current is applied and when it is not applied. The accurate current is determined at a known temperature and accurate temperature compensation is provided by a non-linear digital technique. Each phase of the multi-phase power regulator is individually calibrated so that balanced channels provide accurate power to the load. Also disclosed is a calibration method with minimal noise generation. |
| US07960945B1 |
Estimating remaining use time of a mobile device
The present disclosure provides methods and systems for estimating the remaining use time of a battery of a mobile device. In some implementations, the method includes providing a use profile programmed in a memory of the mobile device, and monitoring a rate of change of a state of charge (SOC) of the battery. The rate of change of the SOC and the use profile are processed to affect a comparison therebetween, and the remaining use time is estimated based on the comparison. |
| US07960943B2 |
Modular battery system having battery monitoring and data collection capability
Disclosed herein is a modular battery system having at least one subsystem comprising a plurality of battery modules connected in series or parallel, wherein each subsystem preferably having a first endplate and a second endplate. The battery modules may be bound between the first and second endplates. A plurality of band members couple the first and second endplates to each other and bind the battery module between the endplates. Further, a data collection panel is in electrical communication with each of the battery modules and the data collection panel transmits status information of the modules to a master control module, which converts the electrical into a data transmission through a controller area network (CAN) bus. Status information may include module temperature, module pressure and module voltage, essentially any measurable parameter that may be conducted via an electrical signal. Depending on the needs of a given application, the battery modules may be connected in series or parallel. |
| US07960941B2 |
Battery module
A battery module is constructed with a plurality of unit batteries, and barrier ribs including bands mounted on each of the unit batteries and forming gaps to enable a heat conductive medium to circulate the unit batteries. |
| US07960940B2 |
Motor control device
A motor control device for controlling a d-axis current and a q-axis current on dq coordinates to control a motor, includes a q-axis current command value setting unit which sets a q-axis current command value, an upper limit/lower limit setting unit which sets an upper limit and a lower limit of the q-axis current, a comparing unit which compares the q-axis current command value set by the q-axis current command value setting unit and the upper limit and the lower limit set by the upper limit/lower limit setting unit, a q-axis current command value limiting unit which puts a limit on the q-axis current command value in accordance with a comparison result by the comparing unit, and a d-axis current command value setting unit which sets a d-axis current command value on the basis of the q-axis current command value limited by the q-axis current command value limiting unit. |
| US07960937B2 |
Inverter unit, integrated circuit chip, and vehicle drive apparatus
A miniaturizable, low-cost highly reliable inverter unit. A control circuit section for controlling operating timing of high breakdown voltage semiconductor elements included in an inverter circuit section and first and second drive and abnormality detection circuit sections for outputting drive signals for driving the high breakdown voltage semiconductor elements according to the operating timing and for feeding back an abnormality of the inverter circuit section to the control circuit section are formed on an SOI substrate as one integrated circuit chip. On the integrated circuit chip, circuit formation areas which differ in reference potential are separated from one another by dielectrics. A plurality of level shifters for transmitting signals exchanged between circuit formation areas separated by the dielectrics are formed. |
| US07960934B2 |
Fault-tolerant control system
A fault-tolerant position feedback filter may be used in an actuation control system to limit the authority of a first position signal, should the first position signal become erroneous, and thereby prevent a postulated runaway condition of an acuator. The filter includes a difference function, a limited integrator, and a summer. The difference function supplies a first position error signal representative of a mathematical difference between a first position signal and a combined position signal. The limited integrator supplies an integrated position error signal that is limited in magnitude to a predetermined limit. The summer supplies the combined position error signal that is representative of a mathematical sum of the integrated position error signal and the second position signal. |
| US07960931B2 |
Digital control of motor drives
A digital controller for controlling variable speed and dynamic torque applications of an electric motor. The controller includes a state observer monitoring a torque load requirement and sending a signal based on the torque load requirement, and a digital control unit for receiving the signal from the state observer and sending an output to the electric motor. The output is a value that corresponds to a first motor operating state or a second motor operating state. |
| US07960930B2 |
Control apparatus and method for motor drive system
In the rectangular-wave voltage control mode, torque feedback control, in which the voltage phase of the rectangular-wave voltage is adjusted based on the deviation of the torque estimated value from the torque command value, is performed. A torque estimation portion calculates the torque estimated value using the motor currents calculated based on the values detected by a current sensor and a rotational position sensor, as in the case of the PWM control mode. Namely, the same state quantity (quantity detected by the sensors) of the alternating-current motor is used in the motor control in both the rectangular-wave voltage control mode and the PWM control mode. |
| US07960925B2 |
Ultrasonic motor driving method and ultrasonic motor
There is provided a method of driving an ultrasonic motor configured so that two alternating voltages having a predetermined difference between respective phases and having predetermined drive frequencies are applied to a laminated piezoelectric body that has driving parts abutting a member to be driven, whereby simultaneous excitation of vertical and bending vibrations and hence excitation of an elliptical vibration occur in the piezoelectric body, and the driving parts receiving drive force from the elliptical vibration drive the driven member. The method includes performing wear particle removal drive at a fixed frequency during regular reciprocal drive so as to intermittently interrupt the regular drive, the regular drive being such that the driving parts repeatedly reciprocally drive the driven member within a predetermined range, and the wear particle removal drive being such that the driving parts reciprocally drive the driven member within a removal drive range wider than the predetermined range. |
| US07960921B2 |
Current regulator apparatus and methods
An apparatus according to the present invention provides regulated pulsed current to an LED from a voltage source such as a rectified AC voltage. The present inventions provide methods for delivering regulated pulsed current to an LED from the voltage source. |
| US07960919B2 |
Illumination apparatus and image display apparatus
An illumination apparatus is configured simply in a reduced scale while a light emitting diode is used as a light emitting source for illumination. The illumination apparatus includes an LED driving block including an LED bridge circuit formed from a bridge connection of a plurality of diode series circuits each of which is formed from a series connection of a plurality of light emitting diodes and a rectifying diode. A load resistor is connected to a rectification output of the LED bridge circuit. When an AC voltage is input to the LED driving block, the LED bridge circuit rectifies the AC voltage, and the resulting rectification current is used as driving current to drive the light emitting diodes to emit light. |
| US07960917B2 |
Light emitting device and electronic equipment using the same
A light emitting device is provided which is capable of displaying in desired colors stably by controlling a change in luminance of OLED when an organic light emitting layer is degraded or there is a change in temperature of the surroundings. A reference value for the amount of current flowing into a pixel portion is calculated from data of a video signal. Then, the pixel portion displays an image in accordance with the data of the video signal and the drive current at the time is measured for all of OLEDs in the pixel portion. The two voltage values supplied from a variable power supply to the pixel portion are corrected such that the measured drive current approaches the reference value. With the above structure, lowering of luminance which accompanies degradation of an organic light emitting layer is prevented and a clear image can be displayed as a result. |
| US07960915B2 |
Cement for bonding an aluminum nitride arc tube body to a molybdenum electrode support, articles made therefrom, and methods for making same
A cement for bonding an arc tube body made of an aluminum nitride sintered body and an electrode support made of molybdenum achieves high gas tightness in the obtainable arc tube without impairing the excellent translucency of the aluminum nitride sintered body. The cement contains a molybdenum powder and an aluminum nitride powder, and the total amount of metalloid elements, rare-earth elements and metal elements (except the rare-earth elements and aluminum element) corresponding to the following conditions (1) and (2) is 300 ppm or less: (1) metal elements having a melting point of 2000° C. or lower, and (2) metal elements having an ion radius smaller than that of aluminum. |
| US07960914B2 |
Image display element including electrode terminal free from contact inhibiting factor
An image display element includes: a front panel; a back panel opposite thereto; plural pixels arranged in a matrix between the panels; and plural electrodes for controlling the pixels. The panels are bonded with the pixels and the electrodes interposed therebetween. The electrodes are connected to a driving circuit via metal film wires. The back panel is divided so as to expose electrode terminals, and a groove part V-shaped in cross section is formed at the divided portion. The metal film wires are formed on the top surface of the back panel, and the electrode terminals and the metal film wires are connected by a conductive paste coated along the tilt surfaces forming the groove part. A contact resistance reducing means is disposed at the connection part interface between the electrode terminal and the conductive paste. |
| US07960913B2 |
Organic light emitting diode display device having a second bezel
An OLED display includes a display panel having a display area and a pad area, a first bezel receiving the display panel, and a second bezel combined with the first bezel along a display panel side where the pad area is formed. |
| US07960910B2 |
Organic light emitting display device and method for manufacturing the same
An organic light emitting display device, includes a substrate, at least one organic light emitting diode on the substrate, a functional layer including an opaque material and a light transmitting inorganic material, and an encapsulation layer on the organic light emitting diode, the encapsulation layer including at least one inorganic layer and at least one organic layer. |
| US07960907B2 |
Light-emitting apparatus
Provided herein is a light-emitting apparatus which is capable of causing the light emitted at the entire face of a fluorescent material to be exteriorly emitted with no interference and with enhanced light emission efficiency, thereby attaining an exteriorly radiated high brightness light. A cathode electrode 10 is mounted on a periphery of a transmission member 30, the anode electrode 15 is also mounted on a domain opposite to a light transmission member 30, and the surface 16a of the fluorescent material 16 to be mounted on a top layer of the anode electrode 15 is formed with a concave face. In accordance therewith, even when the cathode electrode 10 is offset mounted on a periphery of the light transmission member 30 it can be caused to precisely face the surface 16a of the fluorescent material 16 and the excitation light from the entire face of the surface 16a of the fluorescent material 16 can made incident onto the light transmission member 30 without interference from the cathode electrode 10 or the like. |
| US07960900B2 |
Assembly of a microswitch and of an acoustic resonator
The invention relates to a device consisting of an electromechanical microswitch comprising mobile beam (2). According to the invention, at least part (14) of the beam forms the piezoelectric element of a piezoelectric actuator. |
| US07960897B2 |
Ultrasonic motor
An ultrasonic motor produces elliptical vibration by inducing longitudinal vibration and flexural vibration at the same time and drives a driven body by obtaining a drive power from the elliptical vibration. The ultrasonic motor includes a piezoelectric device, reinforcing members which are provided at the antinodes of the flexural vibration on the top side of the piezoelectric device, friction contact members which are provided at the antinodes of the flexural vibration on the bottom side of the piezoelectric device so as to transmit the driving force to the driven body, a holding member which is provided on the piezoelectric device and positioned and held by a case, and a pressure member which presses the holding member so that the friction contact members are brought into a pressure contact with the driven body such that the driven body can be driven by friction. |
| US07960895B2 |
Drive unit
A vibratory actuator includes a piezoelectric element, a driver element provided on the piezoelectric element and a movable body supported by the driver element. A control unit supplies a first voltage and a second voltage at the same frequency to the piezoelectric element. By supplying the first voltage and the second voltage having a difference phase from a phase of the first voltage by 90°, the piezoelectric element is lead to composite vibration of stretching and bending, thereby causing the driver to make an elliptical motion by the vibration and move the movable body. The control unit switches, during a fine mode, a phase difference between the first voltage and the second voltage between 90° and 0°. |
| US07960894B2 |
Generator for exciting piezoelectric transducer
A generator for exciting a piezoelectric transducer, includes at least one digital processor unit. The digital processor unit is configured to operate at least in an iterative operation stage including more than two successive iterations. Each iteration includes: exciting the transducer at a plurality of frequencies in a frequency band about a set-point frequency; during transducer excitation, acquiring one or more values related to at least one electrical magnitude associated with the excitation of the transducer for a plurality of frequencies in the frequency band; and analyzing the values acquired to determine a new set-point frequency for a subsequent iteration. |
| US07960893B2 |
Method of making integrated stator, brushless direct-current motor of radial core type double rotor structure using the integrated stator, and method of making the same
Provided are a radial core type brushless direct-current (BLDC) motor and a method of making the same, having an excellent assembly capability of division type stator cores in a double rotor structure BLDC motor. The BLDC motor includes a rotational shaft, an integrated double rotor including an inner rotor and an outer rotor, and a rotor supporter wherein a trench type space is formed between the inner rotor and the outer rotor, and an end extended from the inner rotor is connected with the outer circumferential surface of a bushing combined with the rotational shaft, and an integrated stator wherein one end of the stator is disposed in the trench type space and an extension axially extended from the other end of the integrated stator is fixed to the housing of the apparatus. In the integrated stator, U, V, W phase coil assemblies are formed of a number of core groups including a number of division type cores, wherein for each phase coil assembly, the division type core groups of the U, V, W phase coil assemblies are alternately disposed in an annular form in sequence of the phases, and the respective division type core groups are integrally formed into a single body in annular form by a stator support. |
| US07960890B2 |
Laminated core, method and apparatus for manufacturing laminated core, and stator
A laminated core block includes a plurality of core members made of magnetic sheets stacked one on top of another, the plurality of core members including first and second core members which adjoin in a laminating direction, and a thermoplastic resin strand placed between the first and second core members. The thermoplastic resin strand is arranged to pass along one side surface of the first core member, between the first and second core members and along a side surface of the second core member on a side opposite to the aforementioned side surface of the first core member in this order. The first and second core members are bonded to each other by melting and curing the thermoplastic resin strand. |
| US07960888B2 |
Electric motor with field weakening
An electric motor comprising a rotor, a stator and a field weakening device. The rotor has a plurality of magnets mounted thereto, and the stator is located adjacent to the rotor and has a plurality of slots defined therein. The slots define raised teeth and are wound with electrical wiring to generate a magnetic field when the wiring is energized with current. The field weakening device is made from a highly magnetically permeable material and a comparatively lower magnetically permeable material. The field weakening device is disposed between the rotor and the stator and is selectively movable between a first position to align the highly magnetically permeable material between the teeth of the stator and the magnets of the rotor and a second position to align the comparatively lower magnetically permeable material between the teeth of the stator and the magnets of the rotor. |
| US07960886B2 |
Rotating electric machine
A rotating electric machine includes a stator having a plurality of winding phases formed by distributed winding, a rotor having a plurality of magnetic poles and an outer circumference facing the stator, a first groove formed in the outer circumference of the rotor, a second groove formed in a position opposite to reference magnetic poles closest to the first groove, of the magnetic poles, with respect to the first groove, and a protrusion positioned between the first groove and the second groove and defined by the first and second grooves, and a ratio of a width half the width of the protrusion in a circumferential direction of the rotor to a width of the first groove and the second groove in the circumferential direction of the rotor is not smaller than 0.37 and not greater than 6. |
| US07960885B2 |
Rotor and method of manufacturing the rotor and electric vehicle
A rotor includes: a rotor core formed by stacking a first sheet member and a second sheet member and having a first magnet-inserted hole and a second magnet-inserted hole located radially outward relative to the first magnet-inserted hole; magnets inserted respectively into the first and second magnet-inserted holes; and a resin portion injected into the first and second magnet-inserted holes. The first sheet member has a first hole and a second hole constituting the first and second magnet-inserted holes respectively. The second sheet member is located at at least one axial end of the rotor core and has a portion covering a part of the first hole. |
| US07960884B2 |
Axial gap type rotating machine
An axial gap rotating machine rigidly fixing permanent magnets without reducing magnetic flux and having a high output has: a housing; a rotating shaft rotatably supported in the housing; two rotors having disks rotatably integral with the rotating shaft, and permanent magnets arranged concentrically in spaced relation to each other on at least one side of surfaces of the rotating disks in spaced relation to each other on at least one side of surfaces of the rotating disks in spaced relation to each other; and a stator arranged between the rotors, spaced from the rotors and fixed to the housing, the stator having a plurality of coils disposed concentrically around the rotating shaft spaced from each other; wherein magnetic flux generated from the permanent magnets of the rotors intermittently penetrates the interior of each of the coils as the shaft rotates, wherein the rotating disk has a concave portion in the surface facing the stator in which the permanent magnets are disposed so as to protrude. |
| US07960882B2 |
Motor
A motor may include a bearing for supporting a rotation shaft, a bearing holder which is formed with a bearing holding hole on which the bearing is mounted, and a spring member which is mounted on an outer end face of the bearing holder for urging the bearing toward the rotation shaft. The spring member includes a plurality of hook parts which engages with an inner end face of the bearing holder through an outer peripheral side of the bearing holder, and a portion of the inner end face of the bearing holder is formed with a recessed engaging part with which the plurality of the hook parts is engaged. The recessed engaging part includes a cut-out part which reaches to an aperture edge of the bearing holding hole. |
| US07960879B2 |
Heat bridge between accessory casing and airplane engine accessory box
An airplane engine accessory box carrying an electrical machine such as an alternator, having a rotor that is guided in rotation in a bearing carried by a support part made of a material having a low coefficient of thermal expansion, itself carried by a stator cover that acts as a heat bridge between the body of the stator of the electrical machine and the casing of the accessory box. |
| US07960877B2 |
Electric reciprocating motion device with spring motor
An electric reciprocating motion device includes a motor having a rotary shaft for outputting a reciprocating rotational power and a motion head coupling with the rotary shaft and being driven to move in a reciprocating motion along an axis of the rotary shaft and in a predetermined swing angle range. The motor is a spring motor including a motor unit and a torsion spring having two ends affixing at a motor housing and to the rotary shaft respectively. After the rotary shaft outputs a mechanical torque at one rotational direction, the torsion spring applies a spring force against the rotary shaft to drive the rotary shaft to rotate backward for generating the reciprocating rotational power. Using the spring motor in the electric reciprocating motion device, the device achieves the goals of simple mechanical structure, small volume, easy to install, and low in cost. |
| US07960870B2 |
Power extractor for impedance matching
In some embodiments, a power extractor may operate such that the source impedance and the load impedance may have various values. The power extractor dynamically matches the impedance of the source and the load for the maximum transfer of power. The power extractor includes detection circuitry to continuously detect power changes, and is operated such that impedances of the power extractor between the source and load are dynamically changed in response to the detected power changes. The power extractor may then match an impedance of a power source to the impedance of a load. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US07960868B1 |
Methods for generating high voltage pulses with a transmission line
A method of generating an electrical pulse to an output load is disclosed. The method includes the steps of establishing a first voltage on a first electrical conductor throughout an electrical length of the first electrical conductor, initiating the propagation of a voltage step at a first end of a second conductor having an electrical length that is substantially the same as the electrical length of the first electrical conductor, reversing a polarity of the voltage step and shifting the first voltage on the first electrical conductor when the voltage step reaches the second end of the second electrical conductor, and maintaining a shifted first voltage on the first electrical conductor when the voltage step on the second conductor returns to the first end of the second conductor. |
| US07960867B2 |
Methods and systems for wireless energy and data transmission
System and methods for wireless energy and data transmission are described. One aspect includes an emitter and receiver. The emitter may include primary and secondary emitting windings. The receiver may include primary and secondary receiver windings. In further aspects, the emitter may include a tertiary emitting winding and the receiver may include a tertiary receiver winding. In one aspect, the emitter uses driving circuitry and the receiver uses rectifying circuitry and one or more capacitors. In further aspects, the emitter and receiver are reversible. |
| US07960866B2 |
Pulse generation circuit and UWB communication device
A pulse generation circuit for outputting a pulse with a predetermined waveform to an output terminal in response to a start signal includes a circuit adapted to generate a plurality of signals {Di|i denotes an integer in a predetermined range}, which has predetermined amounts of time differences from the start signal, based on the start signal, a plurality of power supplies {Ej|j denotes an integer} adopted to supply electric energy of a predetermined electric quantity, and a switching circuit adapted to sequentially switch the power supplies {Ej} in a predetermined order in accordance with logical function values of at least a part of the signals {Di} to connect the power supplies {Ej} to the output terminal. |
| US07960861B2 |
Redundant current supply with diagnostic capability and a suppressor
A circuit arrangement and method for redundantly supplying current to a downstream load are provided. The circuit arrangement includes a first current path including a first switch element to which a first voltage is applied on the input side, a second current path including a second switch element to which a second input voltage is applied on the input side, a first control device which is connected to the first current path and used to control the first switch element, a second control device which is connected to the second current path and used to control the second switch element, and a common output terminal of the first and second current paths, from which a load supply voltage is emitted. In a normal operating state, the first control device holds the first switch element in a let-through state and the second control device holds the second switch element in a let-through state, and in an abnormal operating state, depending on electrical properties of the first current path or the second current path, the control device which is located in the current path having weaker electrical properties transfers the switch element in the current path into a blocking state. |
| US07960860B2 |
Power sourcing equipment device including a serial interface
In a particular embodiment, a circuit device is disclosed that includes a power sourcing equipment (PSE) circuit having a plurality of high-voltage line circuits adapted to communicate with a respective plurality of powered devices via network cables. The PSE circuit includes a serial interface circuit and includes a common controller coupled to the serial interface circuit and to the plurality of high-voltage line circuits. The circuit device also includes a low-voltage circuit having a programmable controller adapted to transmit control signals to the common controller via the serial interface circuit to control operation of the plurality of high-voltage line circuits. |
| US07960855B2 |
System and method for providing power control of an energy storage system
A control circuit comprises a circuit adapted to determine a state of charge of a high side power source using a sensed output current to provide a variable gain signal based on the state of charge. The control circuit may also contain a circuit configured to provide a fixed gain signal based on the current of the high side power source and a circuit configured to combine the variable gain signal and the fixed gain signal to create a power command. |
| US07960852B2 |
Fluid turbine devices and methods related to fluid turbine devices
Fluid turbine devices and methods related to fluid turbine devices are disclosed herein. One example method includes deflecting a first portion of a fluid flow from a return path of a vertical blade assembly, while permitting a second portion of the fluid flow to enter a drive path of the vertical blade assembly. Another example method related to a fluid flow device includes orienting a shroud relative to a fluid flow to deflect a first portion of a fluid flow from a return path of a vertical blade assembly and to permit a second portion of the fluid flow to enter a drive path of the vertical blade assembly and activating a generator, based on an operating characteristic of the fluid turbine device, to regulate a rotational speed of the vertical blade assembly. |
| US07960851B2 |
Power generator and method for generating power
A power generator for use in a unidirectional flowing fluid has a fixed part and a movable part, the movable part is mounted on the fixed part for reciprocal movement with respect to the fixed part between first and second positions. A valve element on the movable part is adapted to move between open and closed positions for relatively unimpeded and impeded flow. A valve actuation mechanism is connected to the valve element to move the valve element to the closed position when the movable element reaches the first position and to move the valve element to the open position when the movable element reaches the second position. An electrical generator is coupled to the fixed part and the moveable part and is adapted to generate electrical energy when the movable part moves between the first and second positions. |
| US07960848B2 |
Electric bike with capability of self-charging
The present invention provides an electric bike with capability of self-charging. The electric bike is fixedly supported by supporting legs so as to be operated in a stationary point. A user steps on a petal assembly of the electric bike to drive a wheel to rotate. The electric bike further includes a power-generating device, a controller, a battery and a damper. The controller is used to receive a power source outputted by the power-generating device and convert the power source into a plurality of DC power sources to charge the battery. The damper consumes a portion of electricity generated by the power-generating device. With the above arrangement, the electric bike can be charged by itself while the user is exercising. |
| US07960847B2 |
Packaging structure of SIP and a manufacturing method thereof
A manufacturing method for a packaging structure of SIP (system in package) includes the following steps. First step is providing a substrate having electronic devices thereon. Second step is covering the electronic devices by a mixture of a molding compound and a conductive polymer precursor so as to form a molding structure, wherein the substrate, the electronic devices and the molding structure forms a collective electronic module. Third step is separating the collective electronic module into a plurality of individual electronic modules. Fourth step is performing a doping step by using a doping element for transforming the conductive polymer precursor in the mixture into a conductive layer near the surface of the molding structure. Therefore, the manufacturing method is optimized for forming a shielding structure of the SIP module. |
| US07960846B2 |
Semiconductor device having improved solder joint and internal lead lifetimes
A semiconductor chip is mounted on a flexible wiring board through the interposition of an elastomer. The flexible wiring board is made up of a tape on which wiring is fixed. A part of the wiring is projected beyond the edge of the tape, extended in the direction of the thickness of the elastomer and connected to an electrode of the semiconductor chip. The edge of the tape beyond which the wiring is projected protrudes beyond the edge of the elastomer by a length no smaller than the thickness of the elastomer. |
| US07960845B2 |
Flexible contactless wire bonding structure and methodology for semiconductor device
A semiconductor device such as a field-effect transistor, improved to reduce device resistance, comprises a leadframe which includes a die paddle integral with a first set of leads and a second set of leads that is electrically isolated from the first set, a semiconductor die having its lower surface positioned on, and electrically connected to, the die paddle, and a conductive layer on the upper surface of the die. At least one electrically conductive wire, preferably plural wires, extend laterally across the second surface of the semiconductor die, are in electrical contact with the conductive layer, and interconnect corresponding second leads on opposite sides of the die. The plural wires may be welded to leads in succession by alternate ball and wedge bonds on each lead. The conductive layer may be an aluminized layer on which is formed a thin layer a solderable material, such as tin. A solder is deposited on the tin layer, enmeshing the wires. The wires, which preferably are made of copper, then may be bonded to the electrically conductive layer by melting the solder paste, preferably by heating the leadframe, allowing the solder to reflow and wet the wires, and then cool to produce a low resistance mass between the leads. |
| US07960843B2 |
Chip arrangement and method of manufacturing a chip arrangement
A chip arrangement includes a logic chip with electric contacts arranged on one side, at least one memory chip arrangement with electrical contacts arranged on at least one side, and a substrate with electrical contacts on both sides of the substrate. The logic chip is attached to the substrate and is electrically conductively coupled to the substrate. The memory chip arrangement is arranged on the logic chip on the side facing the substrate and is electrically conductive coupled to the logic chip. The substrate includes a plurality of electrical connections between the contacts of the one and the other side. |
| US07960842B2 |
Structure of high performance combo chip and processing method
A method for fabricating a chip package is achieved. A seed layer is formed over a silicon wafer. A photoresist layer is formed on the seed layer, an opening in the photoresist layer exposing the seed layer. A first solder bump is formed on the seed layer exposed by the opening. The photoresist layer is removed. The seed layer not under the first solder bump is removed. A second solder bump on a chip is joined to the first solder bump. |
| US07960840B2 |
Double wafer carrier process for creating integrated circuit die with through-silicon vias and micro-electro-mechanical systems protected by a hermetic cavity created at the wafer level
A TSV-MEMS packaging process is provided. The process includes forming TSVs in the front side of the product wafer, and attaching a first carrier to the front side of the product wafer, subsequent to forming TSVs. The process further includes thinning the back side of the product wafer to expose TSV tips, detaching the first carrier from the front side of the product wafer, and transferring the thinned wafer to a second carrier with back side adhered to the second wafer carrier. Semiconductor components are added to the front side of the product wafer, followed by forming a hermetic cavity over the added semiconductor components, and detaching the second carrier from the back side of the product wafer. Wafer level processing continues after detaching the second carrier. |
| US07960837B2 |
Semiconductor package
In a semiconductor package, at least two of connection pads are formed into different-shape pads which are different in planar shape from other connection pads, and one different-shape pad and another different-shape pad are disposed in a manner that, when the position of the one different-shape pad is rotated about the center point of the semiconductor package, the position does not coincide with the disposition position of the other different-shape pad. |
| US07960831B2 |
Ball-limiting metallurgies, solder bump compositions used therewith, packages assembled thereby, and methods of assembling same
A ball-limiting metallurgy (BLM) stack is provided for an electrical device. The BLM stack resists tin migration toward the metallization of the device. A solder system is also provided that includes a eutectic-Pb solder on a substrate that is mated to a high-Pb solder, and that withstands higher temperature reflows and other higher temperature processes. |
| US07960829B2 |
Support structure for use in thinning semiconductor substrates and for supporting thinned semiconductor substrates
A support structure for use with a semiconductor substrate in thinning, or backgrinding, thereof, as well as during post-thinning processing of the semiconductor substrate includes a portion that extends substantially along and around an outer periphery of the semiconductor substrate to impart the thinned semiconductor substrate with rigidity. The support structure may be configured as a ring or as a member that substantially covers an active surface of the semiconductor substrate and forms a protective structure over each semiconductor device carried by the active surface. |
| US07960825B2 |
Chip package and method for fabricating the same
A method for fabricating chip package includes providing a semiconductor chip with a bonding pad, comprising an adhesion/barrier layer, connected to a pad through an opening in a passivation layer, next adhering the semiconductor chip to a substrate using a glue material, next bonding a wire to the bonding pad and to the substrate, forming a polymer material on the substrate, covering the semiconductor chip and the wire, next forming a lead-free solder ball on the substrate, and then cutting the substrate and polymer material to form a chip package. |
| US07960823B2 |
Semiconductor device with different sized ESD protection elements
A semiconductor device of an aspect of the present invention comprises a package substrate, one first power supply terminal provided on the package substrate, one second power supply terminal provided on the package substrate, a semiconductor chip disposed on the package substrate, first and second internal power supply circuits provided in the semiconductor chip, one first ESD protection element which is provided in the first internal power supply circuit and which is connected to the first power supply terminal, and a plurality of second ESD protection elements, the second ESD protection elements being provided in the second internal power supply circuit, the size of one second ESD protection element being smaller than that of the first ESD protection element, the second ESD protection elements being connected to the common second power supply terminal. |
| US07960822B2 |
Package on package substrate
A package on package substrate is disclosed. The package on package substrate in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention can include a bottom package substrate, on which and an electronic element is mounted and of which an upper surface is formed with a bottom pad part and a solder resist part corresponding to the bottom pad part, and a top package substrate, which is stacked on an upper side of the bottom package substrate by interposing a solder between the top package substrate and the bottom package substrate and of which a lower surface is formed with a top pad part corresponding to the bottom pad part. The solder resist part can include a first solder resist layer, which is formed on the upper surface of the bottom package substrate, corresponding to the bottom pad part, and a second solder resist layer, which is formed on the first solder resist layer such that the bottom pad part is exposed. |
| US07960818B1 |
Conformal shield on punch QFN semiconductor package
In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a punch quad flat no leads (QFN) semiconductor package including a leadframe wherein the leads of the leadframe are selectively half-etched so that only one or more prescribed leads may be electrically connected to a conformal shield applied to the package body of the semiconductor package. The conformal shield may be electrically connected to the exposed lead(s) alone, or in combination with one or more tie bars of the leadframe. In one embodiment, outer end portions of the top surfaces of the leads of the semiconductor package are alternately exposed and non-exposed, with the non-exposed leads including a top side half-etch which causes the same to be effectively covered by the package body of the semiconductor package. |
| US07960817B2 |
Semiconductor power module with flexible circuit leadframe
A semiconductor power module includes a semiconductor chip thermally interfaced to a ceramic substrate and a leadframe defined by a flexible circuit disposed intermediate the chip and the ceramic substrate. The flexible circuit includes a conductor layer that is selectively encased in an insulated jacket to ensure adequate electrical insulation between the conductor layer and adjacent conductive surfaces. Preferably, the module is constructed for double side cooling by sandwiching the chip between a pair of ceramic substrates and providing intermediate flexible circuit leadframes on both sides of the chip for electrically accessing the chip terminals. |
| US07960816B2 |
Semiconductor package with passive device integration
A system is provided for an integrated circuit package including a leadframe with a lead finger. A groove is in a lead finger for a conductive bonding agent and a passive device is in the groove to be held by the conductive bonding agent. |
| US07960812B2 |
Electrical devices having adjustable capacitance
Electrical devices having tunable capacitance are provided. The tunable capacitance is achieved by placing an appropriate material between substrate layers and by controllably applying a pressure to the material to compress the material or alter the shape of a well in which the material is contained, and thereby alter the capacitance of the electrical device. The composition, shape and dimension of the embedded materials determine how the capacitance of the electrical device is altered upon compression of the embedded material in response to an applied control signal. Generally, as the embedded material is compressed, the material will become more dense and the capacitance of the integrated electrical device is altered. |
| US07960809B2 |
eFuse with partial SiGe layer and design structure therefor
A fuse includes a fuse link region, a first region and a second region. The fuse link region electrically connects the first region to the second region. A SiGe layer is disposed only in the fuse link region and the first region. |
| US07960808B2 |
Reprogrammable fuse structure and method
A reversible fuse structure in an integrated circuit is obtained through the implementation of a fuse cell having a short thin line of phase change materials in contact with via and line structures capable of passing current through the line of phase change material (fuse cell). The current is passed through the fuse cell in order to change the material from a less resistive material to a more resistive material through heating the phase change material in the crystalline state to the melting point then quickly quenching the material into the amorphous state. The reversible programming is achieved by passing a lower current through the fuse cell to convert the high resistivity amorphous material to a lower resistivity crystalline material. Appropriate sense-circuitry is integrated to read the information stored in the fuses, wherein said sense circuitry is used to enable or disable circuitry. |
| US07960804B1 |
Latching zip-mode actuated mono wafer MEMS switch
A latching zip-mode actuated mono wafer MEMS switch especially suited to capacitance coupled signal switching of microwave radio frequency signals is disclosed. The single wafer fabrication process used for the switch employs sacrificial layers and liquid removal of these layers in order to also provide needed permanent physical protection for an ultra fragile switch moving arm member. Latched operation of the achieved MEMS switch without use of conventional holding electrodes or magnetic fields is also achieved. Fabrication of a single MEMS switch is disclosed however large or small arrays may be achieved. |
| US07960802B2 |
Methods to enhance effective work function of mid-gap metal by incorporating oxygen and hydrogen at a low thermal budget
A process is disclosed of forming metal replacement gates for PMOS transistors with oxygen in the metal gates such that the PMOS gates have effective work functions above 4.85. Metal work function layers in the PMOS gates are oxidized at low temperature to increase their effective work functions to the desired PMOS range. Hydrogen may also be incorporated at an interface between the metal gates and underlying gate dielectrics. Materials for the metal work function layers and processes for the low temperature oxidation are disclosed. |
| US07960794B2 |
Non-planar pMOS structure with a strained channel region and an integrated strained CMOS flow
A non-planar tri-gate p-MOS transistor structure with a strained channel region and a non-planar tri-gate integrated strained complimentary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) structure are described. A relaxed Si1-x Gex layer is formed on the silicon-on-isolator (SOI) substrate. The relaxed Si1-x Gex layer is patterned and subsequently etched to form a fin on the oxide. The compressively stressed Si1-y Gey layer, having the Ge content y higher than the Ge content x in the relaxed Si1-x Gex layer, is epitaxially grown on the fin. The Si1-y Gey layer covers the top and two sidewalls of the fin. The compressive stress in the Si1-y Gey layer substantially increases the hole mobility in a channel of the non-planar tri-gate p-MOS transistor structure. |
| US07960793B2 |
Semiconductor device
According to one embodiment, it is possible to provide a semiconductor device provided with an MIS transistor which has an effective work function being, as much as possible, suitable for low threshold operation. A CMIS device provided with an electrode having an optimal effective work function and enabling low threshold operation to achieve by producing an in-gap level by the addition of a high valence metal in an Hf (or Zr) oxide and changing a position of the in-gap level by nitrogen or fluorine or the like has been realized. |
| US07960789B2 |
Integrated field-effect transistor comprising two control regions, use of said field-effect transistor and method for producing the same
An integrated field-effect transistor is described in which a substrate region is surrounded by: two terminal regions (a source region and a drain region), two electrically insulating layers, two electrically insulating regions, and an electrically conductive connecting region. The insulating layers are arranged at mutually opposite sides of the substrate region and are adjoined by control regions. The insulating regions are arranged at mutually opposite sides of the substrate region. The electrically conductive connecting region produces an electrically conductive connection between one terminal region and the substrate region. The connecting region includes a metal-semiconductor compound. Part of a covering area of the substrate region is covered by the connecting region, which extends further over a covering area of the source region. The part of the covering area of the substrate region covers the substrate region between the two insulating layers and between the two control regions. |
| US07960784B2 |
Semiconductor structure and fabrication method thereof
A semiconductor fabrication process according to the present invention defines an auxiliary structure with a plurality of spaces with a predetermined line-width in the oxide layer to prevent the conductive material in the spaces from being removed by etching or defined an auxiliary structure to rise the conductive structure so as to have the conductive structure being exposed by chemical mechanical polishing. Thus, the transmitting circuit can be defined without requiring an additional mask. Hence, the semiconductor fabrication process can reduce the number of required masks to lower the cost. |
| US07960779B2 |
Nonvolatile semiconductor memory and manufacturing method thereof
A nonvolatile semiconductor memory of an aspect of the invention includes memory cells in the memory cell forming area, and select gate transistors in the select gate forming area. Each memory cell has two first diffusion layers formed in a semiconductor substrate, a first gate insulating film formed on the semiconductor substrate, a charge storage layer formed on the first gate insulating film, a first intermediate insulating film formed on the charge storage layer and a first gate electrode formed on the first intermediate insulating film. Each select gate transistor has two second diffusion layers formed in the semiconductor substrate, a second gate insulating film formed on the semiconductor substrate, a second intermediate insulating film formed in direct contact with the second gate insulating film and having the same structure as the first intermediate insulating film, and a second gate electrode formed on the second intermediate insulating film. |
| US07960777B2 |
Multi-valued mask ROM
A mask ROM is provided with a plurality of memory cells each including first and second nodes, and a transistor having a source and drain connected to the first and second nodes, respectively. A first memory cell out of the plurality of memory cells further includes a first resistive interconnection which provides an electrical connection between the first and second nodes. The resistance of the first resistive interconnection is adjusted depending on data stored onto the first memory cell. |
| US07960776B2 |
Transistor with floating gate and electret
A sensor includes a field effect transistor having a source, drain, a control gate and floating gate, wherein the floating gate has an extended portion extending away from the control gate. A sensing gate is capacitively coupled to the extended portion of the floating gate. A polymer electret sensing coating is electrically coupled to the sensing gate. |
| US07960774B2 |
Memory devices including dielectric thin film and method of manufacturing the same
A memory device including a dielectric thin film having a plurality of dielectric layers and a method of manufacturing the same are provided. The memory device includes: a bottom electrode; at least one dielectric thin film disposed on the bottom electrode and having a plurality of dielectric layers with different charge trap densities from each other; and an top electrode disposed on the dielectric thin film. Therefore, a memory device, which can be readily manufactured by a simple process and can be highly integrated using its simple structure, can be provided. |
| US07960773B2 |
Capacitor device and method for manufacturing the same
This invention provides a capacitor device with a high dielectric constant material and multiple vertical electrode plates. The capacitor devices can be directly fabricated on a wafer with low temperature processes so as to be integrated with active devices formed on the wafer. This invention also forms vertical conducting lines in the capacitor devices using the through-silicon-via technology to facilitate the three-dimensional stacking of the capacitor devices. |
| US07960771B2 |
Semiconductor device comprising a switching element and memory element having an organic compound
A memory element is formed by providing an organic compound between a pair of upper and lower electrodes. However, when the electrode is formed over a layer containing an organic compound, a temperature is limited because the layer containing the organic compound can be influenced depending on a temperature for forming the electrode. A forming method for the electrode is limited due to this limitation of a temperature. Therefore, there are problems that an expected electrode cannot be formed, and miniaturization of an element is inhibited. A semiconductor device includes a memory element and a switching element which are provided over a substrate having an insulating surface. The memory element includes first and second electrodes, and a layer containing an organic compound, which are provided on the same plane. A current flows from the first electrode to the second electrode. The first electrode is electrically connected to the switching element. |
| US07960765B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing an integrated circuit having p and n doped gates
A method and apparatus providing an integrated circuit having a plurality of gate stack structures having gate oxide layers with differing thicknesses and nitrogen concentrations and gate electrodes with differing conductivity types and active dopant concentrations. |
| US07960759B2 |
Integrated circuit layout pattern for cross-coupled circuits
A circuit 32 is provided comprising a first diffusion region 34 and a parallel second diffusion region 36. A sequence of N gate layers 40, 42, 46 is provided with a first and an Nth of these gate layers covering different respective ones of the diffusion regions 34, 36 whilst the middle (N−2) gate layers 42 cover both diffusion regions 34, 36. A bridging conductor 64 connects the first gate layer 40 and the Nth gate layer 46. In some embodiments, the second diffusion region is provided as two second diffusion sub-regions 68, 70 having a diffusion region gap 74 therebetween and electrically connected via a jumper connector 42. A first gate layer 76 which forms a gate electrode with a first diffusion region 66 can extend through this diffusion region gap 74 not forming a gate electrode therewith and facilitating use of a collinear bridging conductor 82 to connect to the Nth gate layer 80. |
| US07960757B2 |
Magneto-electric field effect transistor for spintronic applications
The present invention is directed to a magneto-electric field effect transistor comprising a channel region, a source connected to one side of the channel region and adapted to inject electrons into the channel region, a drain connected to the opposite side of the channel region and adapted to detect spin polarized electrons; and a gate comprising at least one magnetic double pair element comprising four magnetic elements each magnetic element being adapted to induce a magnetic field into the channel region, wherein the total induced magnetic field of the magnetic double pair element is controllable to be substantially zero, and wherein the gate is further adapted to induce an electrical field into the channel region. |
| US07960756B2 |
Transistors including supported gate electrodes
A transistor includes a protective layer having an opening extending therethrough on a substrate, and a gate electrode in the opening. First portions of the gate electrode laterally extend on surface portions of the protective layer outside the opening on opposite sides thereof, and second portions of the gate electrode are spaced apart from the protective layer and laterally extend beyond the first portions. Related devices are also discussed. |
| US07960750B2 |
Light emitting diode package
A light emitting diode package including a substrate; a plurality of electrodes on the substrate; a light emitting diode on the substrate; at least one wire connecting the light emitting diode and at least a first electrode of the plurality of electrodes; a reflecting member formed around the light emitting diode and being spaced apart from the light emitting diode; a cavity included in the reflecting member; a mold material including in the cavity; and a heat sink disposed under the light emitting diode and configured to emit heat generated by the light emitting diode. Further, a connection portion connecting the plurality of electrodes extends under a surface of the substrate through a portion of the substrate, and an inside surface of the reflecting member has a step-shape structure. |
| US07960747B2 |
Light emitting device
A light emitting device is configured to prevent leakage of light but can be reduced in thickness as compared with conventional devices, and can effectively prevent degradation in luminous flux (luminous flux drop). The light emitting device can include a light emitting element, an optically transparent sealing resin having a pair of faces opposed to each other with an axis of light emitting direction of the light emitting device interposed therebetween. The sealing resin can cover the light emitting element and be mixed with a wavelength converting material. A reflective film can be provided on at least one of the pair of opposed faces of the sealing resin. The reflective film can be a white coating containing a white pigment in a concentration of 23 wt % to 54 wt % and formed to be 14 μm to 50 μm in thickness. |
| US07960746B2 |
Low resistance electrode and compound semiconductor light emitting device including the same
A low resistance electrode and a compound semiconductor light emitting device including the same are provided. The low resistance electrode deposited on a p-type semiconductor layer of a compound semiconductor light emitting device including an n-type semiconductor layer, an active layer, and the p-type semiconductor layer, including: a reflective electrode which is disposed on the p-type semiconductor layer and reflects light being emitted from the active layer; and an agglomeration preventing electrode which is disposed on the reflective electrode layer in order to prevent an agglomeration of the reflective electrode layer during an annealing process. |
| US07960743B2 |
Multi-electrode light emitting device
The invention relates to a broad-band light emitting diode having an active layer composed of a plurality of light emission regions of differing materials for emitting light at a plurality of wavelengths, wherein each of the emission regions of the active layer is electrically controlled by a separate electrode for providing a broad-band emission or optical gain with a multi-point control of its spectral profile. |
| US07960742B2 |
Active device array substrate having organic material layer with concave patterns
A method of fabricating an active device array substrate is provided. A substrate having scan lines, data lines and active devices formed thereon is provided. Each of the active devices is electrically connected to the corresponding scan line and data line. An organic material layer is formed over the substrate to cover the scan lines, the data lines and the active devices. Then, a plasma treatment is performed to the surface of the organic material layer to form a number of concave patterns. The dimension of each of the concave patterns is smaller than one micrometer. Afterward, pixel electrodes are formed on the organic material layer and each of the pixel electrodes is electrically connected to one of the corresponding active devices. |
| US07960736B2 |
Glass-ceramic-based semiconductor-on-insulator structures and method for making the same
The present invention relates to a semiconductor-on-insulator structure including a semiconductor component comprised of substantially single-crystal semiconductor material layer and a single-crystal semiconductor material with an enhanced oxygen content layer; an oxide glass material layer; and a glass-ceramic layer. |
| US07960735B2 |
Array substrate for liquid crystal display device and method of fabricating the same
An array substrate for a liquid crystal display device comprises a substrate having a pixel region, a gate line on the substrate, and a data line crossing the gate line to define the pixel region. A thin film transistor (TFT) includes a gate electrode connected to the gate line, an insulating layer on the gate electrode, an active layer on the insulating layer, an ohmic contact layer on the active layer, a source electrode connected to the data line and a drain electrode spaced apart from the source electrode. A pixel electrode connects to the drain electrode and is disposed in the pixel region. An opaque metal pattern is provided on end portions of the pixel electrode. |
| US07960733B2 |
Electronics device, semiconductor device, and method for manufacturing the same
It is an object of the present invention to provide a high reliable EL display device and a manufacturing method thereof by shielding intruding moisture or oxygen which is a factor of deteriorating the property of an EL element without enlarging the EL display device.In the invention, application is used as a method for forming a high thermostability planarizing film 16, typically, an interlayer insulating film (a film which serves as a base film of a light emitting element later) of a TFT in which a skeletal structure is configured by the combination of silicon (Si) and oxygen (O). After the formation, an edge portion or an opening portion is formed to have a tapered shape. Afterwards, distortion is given by adding an inert element with a comparatively large atomic radius to modify or highly densify a surface (including a side surface) for preventing the intrusion of moisture or oxygen. |
| US07960729B2 |
Thin film transistor structure and method of fabricating the same
In a thin film transistor (TFT) structure, formation of a spacer layer is used for isolating the NI junction from an insulating layer comprising a nitride, so as to decrease the amount of current leakage and improve the electric characteristics of TFT. In a back-channel etching (BCE) type TFT device, the spacer layer (comprising an oxide layer) is substantially formed at the sidewalls of the channel regions to isolate the insulating layer (comprising silicon nitride) from the NI junctions. In an etch-stop TFT device, the spacer layer (comprising an oxide layer) is substantially formed at the sidewalls of the etch-stop layer to isolate the insulating layer (i.e. etch-stop layer) from the NI junctions. |
| US07960728B2 |
Method of manufacturing TFT substrate and TFT substrate
In a method of manufacturing a TFT substrate in accordance with an exemplary aspect of the present invention, an intrinsic semiconductor film, an impurity semiconductor film, and a conductive film for source lines are formed in succession, and a resist having a thin-film portion and a thick-film portions is formed on the conductive film for source lines. Then, etching is performed by using the resist as a mask, and after that, a part of the conductive film for source lines is exposed by removing the thin-film portion of the resist. Next, the exposed conductive film for source lines is etched by using the thick-film portions of the resist a mask, so that the impurity semiconductor film is exposed. Then, by etching the exposed impurity semiconductor film, a back channel region of a TFT 108 is formed. Further, a dummy back channel region 18a, which is irrelevant to the operation of the finished product, is also formed in a portion other than the TFT 108 region. |
| US07960727B2 |
Zinc oxide based compound semiconductor device
There is provided a zinc oxide based compound semiconductor device which, even when a semiconductor device is formed by forming a lamination portion having a hetero junction of ZnO based compound semiconductor layers, does not cause any rise in a drive voltage while ensuring p-type doping, and, at the same time, can realize good crystallinity and excellent device characteristics. ZnO based compound semiconductor layers (2) to (6) are epitaxially grown on the principal plane of a substrate (1) made of MgxZn1-xO (0≦x<1). The principal plane of the substrate is a plane in which an A plane {11-20} or an M plane {10-10} is inclined in a direction of −c axis. |
| US07960723B2 |
Stacked electro-optically active organic diode with inorganic semiconductor connection layer
A stacked electro-optically active organic diode has an anode electrode (102), a cathode electrode (162), a first electro-optically active organic layer (110) arranged between the electrodes (102, 162), and a second electro-optically active organic layer (130) arranged between said first active organic layer (110) and said cathode (162). A low electron affinity layer (120) is arranged between the first electro-optically active organic layer (110) and the second electro-optically active organic layer (130), and is formed of a first transparent inorganic semi-conductor material. A high electron affinity layer (121) is arranged between said second electro-optically active organic layer (130) and the low electron affinity layer (120), and is formed of a second transparent inorganic semiconductor material, wherein said second transparent inorganic semiconductor material has a higher electron affinity than said first inorganic semiconductor material. The low and high affinity layers (120, 121) constitute a connection layer of only two semiconductor (sub-)layers which allow for transparent, thick layers, and as a result the diode can be both efficient and reliable. |
| US07960707B2 |
Time-domain method and apparatus for determining the depth and concentration of a fluorophore in a turbid medium
Methods and apparatuses for determining the depth and concentration of fluorophores in a turbid medium are disclosed. The method advantageously provides for a rapid estimation of the depth of the fluorophore using characteristics of a temporal point spread function. The concentration of the fluorophore can be determined using the method of the present invention by combining a calculated depth of the fluorophore with a measurement of the intensity of the emitted fluorescence. The intensity can be accurately measured by the apparatus disclosed herein which combine back-reflection and trans-illumination geometries for the source of light injecting and detection. |
| US07960703B2 |
Charged-particle beam lithography apparatus and device manufacturing method
A charged-particle beam lithography apparatus includes a projection system that projects a charged-particle beam, and images a pattern on a substrate with the projected charged-particle beam. The projection system has a symmetrical magnetic doublet lens configured to generate a magnetic field, and an electro-static lens configured to generate an electrical field superimposed on the magnetic field. The electro-static lens includes an electrode configured to apply, on at least the pupil plane of the symmetrical magnetic doublet lens, a potential to accelerate a charged-particle beam that has entered the symmetrical magnetic double lens. |
| US07960700B2 |
Cellular telephone-based radiation detection instrument
A network of radiation detection instruments, each having a small solid state radiation sensor module integrated into a cellular phone for providing radiation detection data and analysis directly to a user. The sensor module includes a solid-state crystal bonded to an ASIC readout providing a low cost, low power, light weight compact instrument to detect and measure radiation energies in the local ambient radiation field. In particular, the photon energy, time of event, and location of the detection instrument at the time of detection is recorded for real time transmission to a central data collection/analysis system. The collected data from the entire network of radiation detection instruments are combined by intelligent correlation/analysis algorithms which map the background radiation and detect, identify and track radiation anomalies in the region. |
| US07960698B2 |
Reflective collection-type light receiving unit and light receiving apparatus for spatial light communications
The reflective collection-type light receiving unit of the present invention is a reflective collection-type light receiving unit having a light receiving element which receives spatial light on which an information signal is superimposed after being reflected and collected via a concave mirror. The light receiving element is arranged approximately at the center inside the concave mirror, with the light receiving plane thereof facing to the reflection plane of the concave mirror. A pair of electrode leads connected to both electrodes of the light receiving element are extended so as to be opened from the center on the front plane of the concave mirror to both sides and connected to a light receiving circuit by way of the lateral plane of the concave mirror. |
| US07960695B1 |
Micromachined electron or ion-beam source and secondary pickup for scanning probe microscopy or object modification
An e-beam or ion beam imaging and exposure system is built into the end of an AFM cantilever which images using the scanning capabilities built into the AFM. In one embodiment, a boron doped diamond cold cathode is formed into the cantilever with an associated accelerating electrode and secondary electron collection electrode. The assembly is brought within a few nanometers of the object to be imaged or exposed using the AFM. One or more gas channels built into the cantilever assembly provide a positive pressure of inert gas to prevent oxidative erosion of the cold cathode and can bleed any surface charge build up on the sample surface. After secondaries are collected the cantilever is moved to the next area to be exposed. |
| US07960693B2 |
Microengineered electrode assembly
Microengineered stacked ring electrode assemblies capable of acting as either RF or DC ion guides in an ion optical system, and method of fabricating same are described. The electrodes are fabricated using planar processing as sets of grooved, proud features formed in a layer of material lying on an insulating substrate. Two such structures are then stacked together to form a set of diaphragm electrodes with closed pupils. Arrangements for fabrication by patterning, etching and bonding are described, together with methods for tapering the electrode pupils or otherwise varying the ion path. |
| US07960687B1 |
Sourceless downhole X-ray tool
Systems, methods, and devices relating to a sourceless X-ray downhole tool are provided. By way of example, such a downhole tool may include an X-ray generator, an X-ray detector, and data processing circuitry. The X-ray generator may emit some X-rays out of the downhole tool and some X-rays internally through the downhole tool. The X-ray detector may detect some of the X-rays that return to the downhole tool, as well as some of the X-rays that pass internally through the downhole tool. The data processing circuitry may gain-stabilize the X-ray detector based at least in part on the X-rays that passed internally through the downhole tool and were detected by the X-ray detector. |
| US07960686B2 |
Radiographic calibration apparatus
A radiographic calibration apparatus for supporting a calibration unit. The radiographic calibration apparatus includes a support structure, and this support structure or arrangement is used to support and selectively position the calibration unit with respect to a patient. A retaining member for use in connection with a calibration unit is also disclosed. |
| US07960683B2 |
Observation apparatus and observation method with reflected light patterns being detected by changing a weight for each of element lights
An observation apparatus includes a light radiating unit that radiates a plurality of element lights, each of which has a limited wavelength band, to an observation target; a light detecting unit that detects the plurality of element lights reflected by the observation target in a plurality of patterns by changing a weight for each of the element lights; and a processing unit that performs a procedure of separating a component of each of the element lights from a plurality of detection results of the light detecting unit based on the weight for each of the element lights of the light detecting unit. |
| US07960682B2 |
Display device control based on integrated ambient light detection and lighting source characteristics
Systems and methods are provided for a display device including one or more methods for modifying the display brightness by automatically adapting to ambient lighting conditions. |
| US07960677B2 |
Projection apparatus and distance measurement method wherein the distance is acquired during a period of predetermined color components being emitted (As amended)
A projection apparatus including a projection drive control unit modulating an emitted light from a light source unit for each of a plurality of color components at predetermined time, and a projection distance acquisition unit irradiating light to the projection screen to acquire a distance to the projection screen, wherein the projection distance acquisition unit carries out laser distance measurement during a period the projection drive control unit modulates a color component of the emitted light to color components except one color component of a plurality of modulated color components. |
| US07960676B2 |
Image capture device to obtain an image with a bright subject, even when the background is dark, and recording medium
A digital camera includes: an image capture data creation unit; a CPU for directing the image capture data creation unit to perform image captures several times and acquire a plurality of image capture data; and an image processing device that determines whether or not a common specific image region exists in a plurality of image capture data acquired by the CPU and, in the case where it is determined that a specific image region exists, performs a pixel additive synthesis for image data of the specific image region and creates image data. |
| US07960672B2 |
Robot welding controller and control method
A robot welding controller and a robot welding control. It comprises a robot having a welding torch at its tip, a robot controller, a wire feeder, and a welding electric power. It performs welding by moving the welding torch on the basis of a commanded welding line. A contact detecting section detects contact of the wire and the base material. A feed direction switching section switches feed directions of the wire. An arc generation detecting section detects that an arc is generated between the wire and the base material. A waveform control section controls electric power waveforms of plural shapes applied between the wire and the base material. A welding sequence section controls the operations of the contact detecting section, the feed direction switching section, the arc generation detecting section and the waveform control section in block. |
| US07960671B2 |
Laser shock processing with momentum trap
A method for laser shock processing a device, including a metallic body having a surface, comprises conformally applying a compliant solid material to the first region on the surface of the metallic body and applying a layer of ablative material to the second region on the surface of the metallic body. A damping liquid is flowed over the layer of ablative material. An array of pulses of laser energy is directed through the damping fluid to impact the layer of ablative material on the surface and peen the surface in the second region. The pulses induce pressure waves within the metallic body which propagate to the surface in the first region. The compliant solid material acts as a momentum trap, so that the acoustic waves are at least partially coupled into the compliant solid material and attenuated outside of the metallic body. |
| US07960669B2 |
Hybrid thermal cutting apparatus
A hybrid thermal cutting apparatus has both a laser head and a plasma torch, both of which can be controlled independently, can perform both laser processing and plasma processing, thus reducing the running costs. A large number of cutting lines for cutting out various types of manufactured products from plate materials are classified into a laser cutting type and a plasma cutting type, according to the cutting length, whether they are the external periphery of manufactured products or apertures, the size of the manufactured products or the apertures, the required process accuracy, the plate thickness, or the like. The lines of the laser cutting type are cut by laser processing, while the lines of the plasma cutting type are cut by plasma processing. |
| US07960668B2 |
Method and device for sorting postal items
A method and device for sorting postal items according to formats, wherein postal items having at least two formats are fed by first conveyor to a sorting location; postal items of a first format are removed from the first conveyor in the area of the sorting location at a number of sorting stations arranged one behind the other in a direction of conveyance of the first conveyor, and are fed to a second conveyor, which, in the area of the sorting location, extends laterally next to the first conveyor, and; the postal items with other formats remain on the first conveyor. |
| US07960667B2 |
Movable contact element and switch using the same
A movable contact element includes a cover sheet to which a movable contact having a dome shape is bonded and which is stacked on a top surface of a pressure sensitive conductive sheet. The movable contact element is bonded to a top surface of a substrate having a fixed contact formed thereon, thereby forming a switch. Through the construction, it is possible to obtain the movable contact element, which has a simple construction and can perform various operations, and the switch using the same. |
| US07960664B2 |
Seesaw switch
A purpose of the present invention is to provide a seesaw switch that has a simple structure with improved opearatability. In order to achieve the purpose, a seesaw switch 1 includes pressing sections each located at corresponding locations of operated sections of a pair of switch elements; a rotation operating member that is rotationally displaced; pressure transmitting members that are respectively provided between the pressing sections and operated sections; and a guide member that guides the pressure transmitting members to contacting and separating directions with respect to the operated sections, when the pressing sections are rotationally displaced. The seesaw switch also includes viscous material that is provided between the pressing sections and the pressure transmitting members. The viscous material has viscosity that allows inclination of the pressing sections toward the pressure transmitting members, while enabling the pressure transmitting members to follow the rotational displacement of the pressing sections. |
| US07960663B2 |
Luminous switch and electronic device provided with the same
A luminous switch using an inorganic EL material is provided with a plurality of switch sections so as to reduce acoustic noise. The switch sections are provided with a plurality of protruding parts (112) and a plurality of supporting sections (113) formed on a surface of a structure (101); an elastic deformable conductor (124) arranged to have a convex surface opposed the protruding parts (112); a wiring sheet (102A) for covering the conductor (124); a luminous sheet (160) for covering the wiring sheet (102A); and a plurality of switch buttons (125) arranged above the luminous sheet (160). The luminous switch has a structure in which at least two supporting sections (113) are arranged around the protruding parts (112), and a space (111) is formed between the protruding parts (112) and a switch sheet (102). The conductor (124) is accommodated in the space (111). In a case main body (101), an electronic component (103) is mounted and a substrate (104) provided with wiring is arranged. The switch buttons (125) are fixed on a key sheet (129). A top plate (106) is arranged on the key sheet (129) by surrounding the switch buttons (125). The top plate (106) is arranged to cover lower components. |
| US07960662B2 |
Radiofrequency or hyperfrequency micro-switch structure and method for producing one such structure
The micro-switch structure comprises, on a substrate 1 coated with a passivation layer 2, a first signal line LS-IN and a second signal line LS-OUT disposed in the projected extension of one another, separated by a switching region 10; a control electrode 3 in said region, a dielectric material 4 with high relative permittivity invariant in frequency, disposed on the control electrode in such a manner that, between the two signal lines, the control electrode is wider on either side and, in the orthogonal direction, the dielectric protrudes on either side of the control electrode and rests on the passivation layer; parallel ground lines, disposed symmetrically on either side of the signal lines and formed on a topological level separated from that of the signal lines by at least one insulating layer made of a material different from that of the passivation layer. |
| US07960658B2 |
Bayonet-coupled draft shield arrangement for balance
A balance (1) has a balance housing (2), which, when the balance is set up for operation, has an opening at its topside to pass a load-introducing member (4). The housing has a draft shield arrangement (5), separable from, and attachable to, the housing. An opening (7) on a floor (6) of the draft shield arrangement corresponds to the housing opening and allows the load-introducing member to pass. A design that facilitates cleaning while keeping the height of the balance low is achieved with a fastening arrangement (8) for the draft shield arrangement. The fastening arrangement allows the draft shield arrangement to be fastened centrally at the load-introducing member passage. A rim on the housing opening operates as a first part (8′) and provides a form-locking connection with a second part that is attached to the draft shield arrangement at the draft shield floor opening. |
| US07960650B2 |
Connection box for solar panel
A box for connecting an output conductor from a solar panel with a feed cable has a base mountable on the solar panel and formed with a first hole for the panel-output conductor and a second hole for the feed cable, a removable cover fittable with the base in a closed position and forming in the closed position with the base a substantially closed compartment, and at least one component mounted on the cover in the compartment. The component is something that affects transmission of electricity from the solar panel into an electrical network connected to the feed cable or that affects the microclimate inside the connection box. |
| US07960648B2 |
Energy saving cable assemblies
A cable assembly for use with any power cable for an electrical device, the cable assembly including a remotely locatable switch for connecting or disconnecting the electrical device from power draw. Also, a cable assembly for a power device such as a charger for providing output power to an electronic device is disclosed, the cable assembly including two pairs of wires wherein a first pair provides output power for the electronic device and a second pair includes a switch for turning off the charger. The cable assembly allows the switch to be located remotely from a charger housing for the converter circuitry and remotely from a power source such as an outlet, and allows the switch to be generally co-located with and operable at the connector for connecting the power device with the electronic device. |
| US07960645B2 |
Germanium solar cell and method for the production thereof
A method is disclosed for passivating and contacting a surface of a germanium substrate. A passivation layer of amorphous silicon material is formed on the germanium surface. A contact layer of metal is then formed on the passivation. The structure is heated so that the germanium surface makes contact with the contact layer. Thus, a passivated germanium surface is disclosed, as well as a solar cell comprising such a structure. |
| US07960642B2 |
CIS based thin-film photovoltaic module and process for producing the same
A photovoltaic module having long-term durability is obtained at low cost.A CIS based thin-film photovoltaic module 1 is obtained by bonding a cover glass 4 comprising, e.g., a semi-tempered white flat glass, which is inexpensive and durable, to a CIS based thin-film photovoltaic circuit 2 on a glass substrate 2A with a thermally crosslinked ethylene vinyl acetate (hereinafter referred to as EVA) resin film 3 (or sheet) as an adhesive. Use of the EVA resin film 3 reduces the amount of an EVA resin to be used. In the crosslinking, a gas generating from the EVA resin film is removed by vacuum suction to prevent bubble generation or inclusion, etc. A high-capacity storage capacitor 9 is disposed on that side of the glass substrate which is opposite to the circuit side to store the electricity optically generated by the circuit. |
| US07960640B2 |
Derivation of control signals from real-time overtone measurements
A system for control signal generation using detected dynamic characteristics of components of an incoming electronic signal. Fixed or adjustable bandpass filters are coupled to signal parameter measurement elements. Each filter isolates a particular overtone component from the incoming electronic signal for isolated signal parameter measurement. Pitch and amplitude of a plurality of overtones may be individually measured. A control signal processor generates one or more outgoing control signals based upon one or more isolated overtone parameter signals. The control signal processor may use these to generate individual associated output signals, subject to optional mathematical operations and warpings, or combine measured parameters of several overtones via mathematical operations to other output signals. The invention may be used to enhance audio-to-MIDI converters, or as an add-on to a traditional fundamental-pitch based audio-to-MIDI converters, giving musicians and vocalists valuable new levels of timbre control over audio synthesis and signal processing. |
| US07960636B2 |
Enhanced knob for use with an electric stringed musical instrument
Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to an enhanced knob with multiple integrated functions for use with an electric stringed musical instrument. The enhanced knob can be positioned on an electric stringed musical instrument or on an interconnected amplifier and can be either an add-on feature or can replace one or more existing knobs. In one embodiment of the present invention, the volume knob for an electric guitar is removed and replaced by an enhanced knob. The enhanced knob includes a switch that allows a user to switch between the multiple functions and also allows the user to control each selected function. The enhanced knob includes a volume function to compensate for the removed volume knob. Additionally, the enhanced knob includes a number of other functions, including a tuner function, a metronome function, and a dynamic visual-display function. |
| US07960635B2 |
Combination drumstick
Combination drumstick for producing a tambourine sound from a plurality of jingle pairs loosely mounted within discrete apertures dispose along and through the combination drumstick. The weight of the combination drumstick is centered in the axis of the combination drumstick for balance and the stick portion is formed from a polymeric material for durability to permit one-handed combination drumming and tambourine sound production. |
| US07960630B2 |
Tremolo mechanism for a stringed musical instrument with angled saddle rollers
A tremolo mechanism having a novel roller mounted beneath a tensioned string of a stringed musical instrument is described. During oscillatory movement, the tensioned string exerts both a static and a vibratory force on the roller. The roller rotates in relation to the tensioned string such that the static force is generally greater than any component of the vibratory force. The novel roller may be a saddle roller with a saddle block having two opposing block walls which form a roller cavity. The block walls each have a roller bore aligned along a roller axis. The saddle roller includes a cylindrical body attached to a roller pin and a circumferential seat receiving a tension string. The roller pin is rotatably disposed such that the saddle roller is in the saddle block cavity. The roller axis extends obliquely to define an oblique roller angle. |
| US07960629B2 |
Automatic player piano equipped with soft pedal, automatic playing system and method used therein
An upright piano is equipped with a soft pedal, and a player makes the hammer stroke shorter by depressing the soft pedal; while a user is reproducing a music tune by means of an automatic player piano fabricated on the basis of the upright piano, the keys are servo controlled on the basis of a position difference of keys between target values and actual values and a key velocity difference, and the duty ratio of driving signal, which is supplied to solenoid-operated key actuators for the keys, are determined on the basis of multiplications between the position difference/key velocity difference and a position gain and a velocity gain; the value of position gain is reduced on the condition that the soft pedal is depressed for preventing the playback from an unintentional loud tone or tones. |
| US07960628B2 |
Guzmania hybrid named ‘eclipse’
A new and distinct Guzmania hybrid named ‘ECLIPSE’ characterized by solid growth habit; funnel-form rosette plant, measuring about 42 cm to 48 cm in height (above the pot when flowering); numerous, green color foliage, measuring about 32 cm to 38 cm in length and about 3.4 cm to 4.6 cm in width; superior floral bract production; bracts have a unique, round, compound red-purple inflorescence which distinguishes this cultivar from typical Guzmania; compound inflorescence, measuring about 7 cm in height and about 15 cm in diameter; and long-lasting habit. |
| US07960626B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH621142
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH621142. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH621142, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH621142 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH621142. |
| US07960624B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH794019
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH794019. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH794019, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH794019 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH794019. |
| US07960621B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH800297
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH800297. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH800297, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH800297 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH800297. |
| US07960620B2 |
Cotton variety 07W903DF
The invention relates to the novel cotton variety designated 07W903DF. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants, plant parts and derivatives of the cotton variety 07W903DF. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the cotton variety 07W903DF and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing cotton plants by crossing the cotton variety 07W903DF with itself or another cotton variety and plants produced by such methods. |
| US07960617B2 |
Lettuce cultivar 50-0501050-B
A lettuce cultivar, designated 50-0501050-B, is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of lettuce cultivar 50-0501050-B, to the plants of lettuce cultivar 50-0501050-B and to methods for producing a lettuce plant by crossing the cultivar 50-0501050-B with itself or another lettuce cultivar. The invention further relates to methods for producing a lettuce plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic lettuce plants and plant parts produced by those methods. This invention also relates to lettuce cultivars or breeding cultivars and plant parts derived from lettuce cultivar 50-0501050-B, to methods for producing other lettuce cultivars, lines or plant parts derived from lettuce cultivar 50-0501050-B and to the lettuce plants, varieties, and their parts derived from the use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid lettuce seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing cultivar 50-0501050-B with another lettuce cultivar. |
| US07960610B2 |
Methods for enhancing segregation of transgenes in plants
The compositions and methods are provided that enhance the selection of transgenic plants having two T-DNA molecules integrated into a plant genome at different physical and genetic loci. The compositions are DNA constructs that comprise novel arrangements of T-DNA molecules containing genes of interest, positive selectable marker genes, and conditional lethal genes. The methods disclosed herein comprises transforming a plant cell to comprise the DNA constructs of the present invention, regenerating the plant cell into a plant and identifying independent transgene loci, where the selectable marker genes or transgenic elements can be segregated in the progeny. |
| US07960609B2 |
Plant vector pBSNB-TEV, vectors derived therefrom, and methods of use
The present invention relates to an avian influenza vaccine of plant origin, prepared by transforming a plant with a surface protein of avian influenza virus, hemagglutinin (HA) or neuraminidase (NA), and a method for preparing the same. Further, the present invention relates to an oral vaccine for preventing avian influenza virus, of which mass-production conditions are established, and thus the produced transgenic plant can be more easily, safely, and economically used as a fodder additive. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a reagent for diagnosing avian influenza virus infection, prepared by isolating and purifying a recombinant antigen protein from the transgenic plant. |
| US07960608B2 |
Modification of flavonoid biosynthesis in plants
The present invention relates to nucleic acids encoding flavonoid biosynthetic enzymes, flavonoid-regulating transcription factors and a flavonoid-specific membrane transporter in plants, and the use thereof for the modification of flavonoid biosynthesis in plants. The present invention also relates to constructs and vectors including such nucleic acids, and related polypeptides. More particularly, the protein involved in flavonoid biosynthesis is selected from the group consisting of TRANSPARENT TESTA 12 (TT12), TRANSPARENT TESTA GLABRA 1 (TTG1), TRANSPARENT TESTA 2 (TT2), TRANSPARENT TESTA 8 (TT8), leucoanthocyanidin dioxygenase (LDOX), cinnamate-4-hydroxylase (C4H), 4-coumaroyl:CoA-ligase (4CL); and functionally active fragments and variants thereof. |
| US07960606B2 |
Mouse model of chronic heart failure and coronary atherosclerosis regression
An animal model has been developed where the animals can survive myocardial infarctions caused by diet-induced coronary atherosclerosis, and live with chronic heart failure. This animal model is a result of reduced activity of scavenger receptor class BI (SR-BI) and ApoE and the inducible activity of the Mx1-Cre gene. In a preferred embodiment, the model is a result of crossbreeding two transgenic mouse lines: a knockout of SR-BI (SRBI−/−) and an impaired ApoE expressor (Apoeh/h) to generate a strain referred to as Apoeh/hSRB1−/− mice, which is then crossbred to mice that carry the inducible Mx1-Cre transgene. The Apoeh/hSRB1−/− mouse model is genetically modified, enabling the offspring to rapidly and permanently lower their high blood cholesterol levels caused by dietary challenge. The ability to rapidly and permanently lower blood cholesterol levels in these mice stops and may cause the regression of occlusive coronary atherosclerosis restoring blood flow to the heart, allowing the mice to survive from myocardial infarction and live with chronic heart failure. |
| US07960604B2 |
Process for production of an absorbing sanitary article comprising lactic acid producing bacteria
The present invention relates to a process for the production of an absorbing sanitary article comprising lactic acid producing bacteria. The process comprises dispersion of lactic acid producing bacteria in a carrier, and application of the resulting dispersion of bacteria by continuous or discontinuous gentle feeding on and/or in at least one component that are to form part of the final article. Furthermore, the present invention relates to an absorbing sanitary article comprising lactic acid producing bacteria dispersed in an essentially hydrophobic carrier. The dispersion of bacteria forms at least one continuous or discontinuous string on and/or in the final sanitary article. |
| US07960603B2 |
Medical bandage cover, medical bandage, and medical bandaging product
A medical bandage is disclosed including a knitted spacer fabric cover or padding positioned in surrounding relation on a moisture-hardenable substrate. A reactive system is applied to and into the thickness of the substrate. The reactive system having a first state wherein the substrate remains in a flexible, conformable condition and a second state wherein the reactive system hardens, simultaneously hardening the substrate into a desired conformation. |
| US07960602B2 |
Compositions and processes for accelerated wound healing using novel fibrous webbings
The present invention provides a multilayer bandage, having a webbing for contacting a wound and a first membrane that has at least one water-insoluble polymer and is water-impervious. The present invention further provides methods for making the multilayer bandage, methods of using the multilayer bandage for accelerated wound healing, and kits having compositions of the present invention. |
| US07960600B2 |
Process for improved meta-xylene yield from C8 aromatics
Meta-xylene is recovered from admixture with other C8 aromatic hydrocarbons including ortho-xylene by liquid phase adsorptive separation. Performance is improved by reducing the concentration of ortho-xylene through adding a sidecut to a prefractionator preparing the feedstock to adsorptive separation. |
| US07960597B2 |
Conversion of vegetable oils to base oils and transportation fuels
The present invention is directed to methods (processes) and systems for processing triglyceride-containing, biologically-derived oils to provide for base oils and transportation fuels, wherein partial oligomerization of fatty acids contained therein provide for an oligomerized mixture from which the base oils and transportation fuels can be extracted. Such methods and systems can involve an initial hydrotreating step or a direct isomerization of the oligomerized mixture. |
| US07960596B2 |
Conversion of vegetable oils to base oils and transportation fuels
The present invention is directed to methods (processes) and systems for processing triglyceride-containing, biologically-derived oils to provide for base oils and transportation fuels, wherein partial oligomerization of fatty acids contained therein provide for an oligomerized mixture from which the base oils and transportation fuels can be extracted. Such methods and systems can involve an initial hydrotreating step or a direct isomerization of the oligomerized mixture. |
| US07960589B2 |
Synthesis of sphingosines and their derivatives
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide for methods of making sphingosines and derivatives thereof, and the like. |
| US07960587B2 |
Compositions comprising novel compounds and electronic devices made with such compositions
The present invention relates to novel compounds and compositions comprising novel oligomers and polymers, and electronic device comprising at least one layer containing the compositions. The novel oligomers and polymers can be solubilized, and can be used in solution to form electronic devices.The compounds can function as monomers, and copolymers can be formed from such monomers, such copolymers comprising, as polymerized units, a plurality of units of the compounds. |
| US07960586B2 |
Purification of armodafinil
The invention encompasses processes for obtaining pure armodafinil substantially free of disulfide impurities that is suitable for use on an industrial scale. In particular, a processes for purifying armodafinil from bis(diphenylmethyl)disulfide comprising: dissolving crude armodafinil in ethanol to form a solution; adding a solvent selected from the group consisting of linear or branched C5-C8 alkyl, linear or branched C5-C8 ether, and mixtures thereof to the solution to form a reaction mixture; cooling the reaction mixture; and isolating pure armodafinil from the reaction mixture. |
| US07960584B2 |
Compounds, isomer thereof, or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof as vanilloid receptor antagonist; and pharmaceutical compositions containing the same
This present invention relates to novel compounds, isomer thereof or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof as vanilloid receptor (Vanilloid Receptor 1; VR1; TRPV1) antagonist; and a pharmaceutical composition containing the same. The present invention provides a pharmaceutical composition for preventing or treating a disease such as pain, migraine, arthralgia, neuralgia, neuropathies, nerve injury, skin disorder, urinary bladder hypersensitiveness, irritable bowel syndrome, fecal urgency, a respiratory disorder, irritation of skin, eye or mucous membrane, stomach-duodenal ulcer, inflammatory diseases, ear disease, and heart disease. |
| US07960582B2 |
Process for the preparation and resolution of mandelic acid derivatives
The present invention relates to a new process for the resolution of mandelic acid derivatives from racemic mandelic acid derivative mixtures by salt formation with chiral base cyclic amides; to the resolved mandelic acid cyclic amide salts (see, for example, formula IIa), as well as certain other metal and amine salts of the mandelic acid derivatives, and to the use of the resolved mandelic acid derivatives as intermediates suitable for large-scale manufacturing of, for example, pharmaceutical compounds; Formula IIa, wherein R is selected from CHF2, H, C1-6 Alkyl, CH2F, CHCl2 and CClF2; and wherein n is 0, 1 or 2; R1 is H or C1-6 Alkyl and X is H, halo or C1-6 Alkyl. |
| US07960580B2 |
Process for making menthyl glutarate
A process for making menthyl glutarate is disclosed. The process comprises reacting excess glutaric acid and menthol to produce a mixture comprising monomenthyl glutarate (MMG) and dimenthyl glutarate (DMG), wherein the weight ratio of glutaric acid to menthol is from 1.0 to 1.6 and the resulting mixture comprises from 60 to 70 wt. % of MMG and from 30 to 40 wt. % of DMG. |
| US07960576B2 |
Diol-derived organofunctional silane and compositions containing same
Described are diol-derived organofunctional silanes in which the silanes contain cyclic and bridged alkoxy groups derived from hydrocarbon-based diols and methods for the preparation of the silanes. Also described are rubber compositions containing the diol-derived organofunctional silanes, methods for the preparation of the rubber compositions and articles of manufacture containing the rubber compositions, in particular, automotive tires and components thereof. |
| US07960573B2 |
Method for enantioselective hydrogenation of chromenes
A method for preparing an enantiomeric chromane, by asymmetrically hydrogenating a chromene compound in the presence of an Ir catalyst having a chiral ligand. The method includes the enantioselective preparation of enantiomeric equol. A preferred Ir catalyst has a chiral phosphineoxazoline ligand. Enantiomeric chromanes of high stereoselective purity can be obtained. |
| US07960571B2 |
Silicon-based cross-coupling reagent and production method of organic compound using the same
In one embodiment of the present invention, a silicon-based cross-coupling reagent is disclosed which is a highly stable tetraorganosilicon compound allowing for a cross-coupling reaction under mild reaction conditions without using fluoride ions, transition metal promoter, or strong bases, and the residue of the silicon reagent can be recovered and reused. The silicon-based cross-coupling reagent is a silicon compound in which an o-hydroxymethylphenyl group is connected to a silicon atom for intramolecular activation. |
| US07960569B2 |
Indole antagonists of P2Y1 receptor useful in the treatment of thrombotic conditions
The present invention provides indole compounds of Formula (I) or (II): or a stereoisomer, tautomer, pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate form thereof, wherein the variables ring A, X1, X2, X3, X4, R6, and R15 are as defined herein. These compounds are selective inhibitors of the human P2Y1 receptor which can be used as medicaments. |
| US07960568B2 |
Heterocyclyl-substituted sulfonamides for the treatment of cognitive or food ingestion related disorders
The present invention relates to heterocyclyl-substituted sulfonamides with 5-HT6 receptor affinity, and compositions thereof, and the use of said compounds for the treatment or prophylaxis of various disorders. |
| US07960567B2 |
Compounds and methods useful for treating asthma and allergic inflammation
Compounds, compositions and methods that are useful in the treatment of inflammatory and immune-related diseases and conditions are provided herein. In particular, the invention provides compounds which modulate the function and/or expression of proteins involved in atopic diseases, inflammatory conditions and cancer. The subject compounds are carboxylic acid derivatives. |
| US07960565B2 |
Organometallic compounds and processes for preparation thereof
This invention relates to organometallic compounds represented by the formula LML′ wherein M is a metal or metalloid, L is a substituted or unsubstituted cyclopentadienyl group or cyclopentadienyl-like group, a substituted or unsubstituted pentadienyl group or pentadienyl-like group, or a substituted or unsubstituted pyrrolyl group or pyrrolyl-like group, and L′ is a substituted or unsubstituted pyrrolyl group or pyrrolyl-like group, a process for producing the organometallic compounds, and a method for producing a film or coating from the organometallic compounds. The organometallic compounds are useful in semiconductor applications as chemical vapor or atomic layer deposition precursors for film depositions. |
| US07960564B2 |
Crystalline chemotherapeutic
N-[4-(3-Amino-1H-indazol-4-yl)phenyl]-N′-(2-fluoro-5-methylphenyl)urea Crystalline Form 1, ways to make it, formulations comprising it and made with it and methods of treating patients having disease using it are disclosed. |
| US07960563B2 |
Indazoles used to treat estrogen receptor beta mediated disorders
The present invention relates to novel indazole derivatives having pharmacological activity, processes for their preparation, compositions containing them and uses of these compounds in the treatment of estrogen receptor beta mediated diseases. |
| US07960554B2 |
Ambient-temperature molten salts and process for producing the same
Ambient-temperature molten salts of formula (I): wherein Y+ is a cation selected from the group consisting of an ammonium ion, a sulfonium ion, a pyridinium ion, a(n) (iso)thiazolium ion, and a(n) (iso)oxazolium ion that may be optionally substituted with C1-10 alkyl and/or C1-10 alkyl having ether linkage, provided that the above cation has at least one substituent of —CH2Rf1 or —OCH2Rf1 (wherein Rf1 is C1-10 perfluoroalkyl); Rf2 and Rf3 are independently C1-10 perfluoroalkyl or may together form C1-4 perfluoroalkylene; and X is —SO2— or —CO—. |
| US07960551B2 |
Compound
A succinic acid salt of biphenyl-2-ylcarbamic acid 1-[2-(2-chloro-4-{[(R)-2-hydroxy-2-(8-hydroxy-2-oxo-1,2-dihydroquinolin-5-yl)ethylamino]methyl}-5-methoxyphenylcarbamoyl)ethyl]piperidin-4-yl ester or a solvate thereof, for use in treating pulmonary disorders. |
| US07960550B2 |
Process for preparing (S)-(+)-clopidogrel base and its salts
Processes for the preparation of Methyl (+)-(S)-(2-chlorophenyl)-(6,7dihydro-4H-thieno[3,2-c]pyridin-5-yl)acetate [Clopidogrel base, (I)] and their various pharmaceutically acceptable salts. |
| US07960547B2 |
Transition metal complexes with carbene ligands and their application
The present invention discloses a transition metal complex having carbene ligands. The disclosed transition metal complex has a structure of a center transition metal surrounded by two identical carbene ligands and one double-chilating ligand which is a nitrogen-contain heteroaryl group compound with pyridyl group. The disclosed transition metal complex can be represented by the following formula: |
| US07960546B2 |
Process for preparing aminocrotonylamino-substituted quinazoline derivatives
The invention relates to an improved process for preparing aminocrotonylamino-substituted quinazoline derivatives of general formula (I) wherein the groups Ra, Rb, Rc and Rd have the meanings given in the claims, as well as sulphonyl derivatives of formula (XIII) and the use thereof as synthesis components for preparing quinazolines of formula (I). The quinazoline derivatives of formula (I) are inhibitors of signal transduction mediated by tyrosinekinases and by the Epidermal Growth Factor-Receptor (EGF-R) and are therefore particularly suitable for the treatment of tumoral diseases. |
| US07960545B2 |
Process for the prepartion of erlotinib
The present invention discloses an improved and novel process for the preparation of erlotinib (N-(3-ethynylphenyl)-6,7-bis(2-methoxyethoxy)-4-quinazolinamine) of formula (1), which comprises: (i) demethylation of commercially available 6,7-dimethoxy-4(3H)-quinazolinone of formula (8); acetylation using acetic anhydride; (iii) introduction of a leaving group at C-4 position in quinazolinone; (iv) condensation with 3-ethynylaniline to get novel compound of formula (12); (v) deacetylation to get novel dihydroxy compound of formula (13); and (vi) O-alkylation with 2-iodoethylmethyl ether to get the erlotinib base of formula (1). Erlotinib base is purified by recrystallization from ethyl acetate to get a HPLC purity of >99.5%. Salt formation of this base with hydrogen chloride gave pharmaceutically acceptable erlotinib hydrochloride of formula (1a) with a HPLC purity of >99.8%. Erlotinib hydrochloride is useful for the treatment of proliferative disorders, such as cancers, in humans. |
| US07960544B2 |
Useful indole compounds
Indoles that have activity as inhibitors of FAAH are described as are indoles and indole derivatives that have activity as inhibitors of DAO. |
| US07960543B2 |
Nucleoside or nucleotide derivative and use thereof
The object of the present invention is to provide a nucleoside or nucleotide having a 5-substituted-2-oxo(1H)pyridin-3-yl group as a base, as well as a method using the same.In one embodiment, the nucleoside or nucleotide of the present invention has a fluorescent dye selected from the group consisting of 5-FAM, 6-FAM, 5-TAMRA, 6-TAMRA, DANSYL, 5-HEX, 6-HEX, 5-TET, 6-TET, 5-ROX and 6-ROX or a quencher dye selected from the group consisting of DABCYL, BHQ1 and BHQ2, which is attached either directly or through a linker to the 5-position of the above base. |
| US07960538B2 |
Probe, probe set, probe carrier, and testing method
A probe, a set of probes, and a probe carrier on which the probe or the set of probes is immobilized, are provided for classification of fungus species. The probe or the set of probes is capable of collectively detecting fungus of the same species and distinguishingly detecting those fungus from fungus of other species. The probe is an oligonucleotide probe for detecting a pathogenic fungus DNA and includes at least one of base sequences of SEQ ID NOS. 1 to 3 and mutated sequences thereof. |
| US07960537B2 |
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 210 24mers is described. |
| US07960532B2 |
Polynucleotides encoding anticoagulant antibodies
This invention relates to novel antibodies that bind with greater affinity to the factor VIIa/tissue factor (FVIIa/TF) complex than to tissue factor (TF) alone, do not compete for binding to TF with FVII and FX, an inhibit FX activation. The antibodies bind at the site of injury and prevent the initiation of thrombosis. The antibodies can be used to treat a variety of thrombotic conditions including but not limited to deep vein thrombosis, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and acute coronary syndrome. |
| US07960531B2 |
EG-VEGF nucleic acids and polypeptides and methods of use
The present invention is directed to novel polypeptides designated herein as EG-VEGF and to nucleic acid molecules encoding those polypeptides. Also provided herein are vectors and host cells comprising those nucleic acid sequences, chimeric polypeptide molecules comprising the polypeptides of the present invention fused to heterologous polypeptide sequences, antibodies which bind to the polypeptides of the present invention and to methods for producing the polypeptides of the present invention. Also provided herein are methods of screening for modulators of EG-VEGF. Furthermore, methods and related methods of treatment are described herein which pertain to regulating cellular proliferation and chemotaxis. |
| US07960528B1 |
Perhydrolase providing improved peracid stability
An acetyl xylan esterase variant having perhydrolytic activity is provided for producing peroxycarboxylic acids from carboxylic acid esters and a source of peroxygen. More specifically, a Thermotoga maritima acetyl xylan esterase gene was modified using error-prone PCR and site-directed mutagenesis to create an enzyme catalyst characterized by an increase in the ratio of peracetic acid formation to peracetic acid hydrolysis specific activities (PAAF/PAAH ratio). The variant acetyl xylan esterase may be used to produce peroxycarboxylic acids suitable for use in a variety of applications such as cleaning, disinfecting, sanitizing, bleaching, wood pulp processing, and paper pulp processing applications. |
| US07960520B2 |
Conversion of lignocellulosic biomass to chemicals and fuels
A method for preparing biomass for slurry processing. The method includes solubilizing the solid material into either a dissolved state or a suspended solid in a liquid phase, and treating the liquid phase to produce chemicals and fuels. |
| US07960518B2 |
Human binding molecules having killing activity against enterococci and uses thereof
The present invention provides human binding molecules specifically binding to enterococci and having killing activity against enterococci, nucleic acid molecules encoding the human binding molecules, compositions comprising the human binding molecules and methods of identifying or producing the human binding molecules. The human binding molecules can be used in the diagnosis, prophylaxis and/or treatment of a condition resulting from Enterococcus. |
| US07960516B2 |
Solid forms of anti-EGFR antibodies
The invention relates to solid forms of antibodies against the EGF receptor, in particular precipitates and crystals of monoclonal antibodies against the EGF receptor, particularly preferably of Mab C225 (cetuximab) and Mab h425 (EMD 72000), which result in biologically active antibody protein through dissolution or suspension in aqueous medium, obtainable by precipitation of the antibody and/or one of its variants and/or fragments dissolved or suspended in aqueous medium by means of a precipitation reagent. The invention furthermore relates to pharmaceutical preparations comprising at least one solid form of above-mentioned antibodies in precipitated non-crystalline, precipitated crystalline or in soluble or suspended form, and optionally excipients and/or adjuvants and/or further pharmaceutical active ingredients, and to a process for the preparation of solid forms of anti-EGFR antibodies according to the invention. |
| US07960515B2 |
Binding molecules to the human OX40 receptor
The present disclosure provides isolated binding molecules that bind to the human OX40R, nucleic acid molecules encoding an amino acid sequence of the binding molecules, vectors comprising the nucleic acid molecules, host cells containing the vectors, methods of making the binding molecules, pharmaceutical compositions containing the binding molecules, and methods of using the binding molecules or compositions. |
| US07960510B2 |
Fluorescent and colored proteins, and polynucleotides that encode these proteins
The subject invention provides new fluorescent and/or colored proteins, and polynucleotide sequences that encode these proteins. The subject invention further provides materials and methods useful for expressing these detectable proteins in biological systems. |
| US07960502B2 |
Sterically hindered poly(ethylene glycol) alkanoic acids and derivatives thereof
The invention provides a sterically hindered polymer that comprises a water-soluble and non-peptidic polymer backbone having at least one terminus covalently bonded to an alkanoic acid or alkanoic acid derivative, wherein the carbon adjacent to the carbonyl group of the acid or acid derivative group has an alkyl or aryl group pendent thereto. The steric effects of the alkyl or aryl group allow greater control of the hydrolytic stability of polymer derivatives. The polymer backbone may be poly(ethylene glycol). |
| US07960500B2 |
Blue electroluminescent polymer, method of preparing blue electroluminescent polymer, and organic electroluminescent device employing the same
Provided are a blue electroluminescent (EL) polymer, a method of manufacturing the same, and an organic EL device including the polymer as a light emitting component, wherein an acridine derivative which can transport holes is introduced into a polymer backbone. The polymer is represented by Formula 1: The blue EL polymer has high color purity and color stability. |
| US07960499B2 |
Process for producing conductive polymer dispersion and conductive polymer dispersion
It is intended to provide a conductive polymer dispersion which has an excellent conductivity and is capable of providing a material with high transparency; and a process for producing the same. The process for producing a conductive polymer dispersion comprises a stirring step in which a mixed liquid containing a conductive polymer having a weight-average molecular weight of from 20,000 to 1,000,000 and a solvent is stirred at a shearing rate of 10,000 s−1 or higher using a stirring machine thereby obtaining a conductive polymer dispersion in which the conductive polymer is dispersed in the solvent. |
| US07960498B2 |
Tissue adhesives with modified elasticity
An embodiment of the invention is a water soluble chain-extended polyamine product made by a process comprising reacting a multi-arm polyether amine with a bifunctional crosslinker of the formula: X1—R—X2. Another embodiment is a water soluble chain-extended polyamine product made by a process comprising reacting a multi-arm polyether having at least three arms and three electrophilic endgroups with a primary diamine crosslinker of the formula: NH2—R2—NH2, followed by treating of the chain-extended product so as to convert the remaining electrophilic endgroups to amine endgroups. Crosslinking of the chain-extended polyamine products with an oxidized polysaccharide provides useful tissue adhesives with modified elasticity, that provides greater compliance to underlying tissue, and improved stability in aqueous environments. |
| US07960497B2 |
Preparation of alkyl ketene dimers
The embodiments of the process of the present invention relate to the preparation of alkyl ketene dimers (AKD), where the process combines at least one polyamine with a fatty acid chloride in a molar ratio of less than one mole of polyamine to one mole of fatty acid chloride thereby forming an alkyl ketene dimer/amine salt that is subsequently separated into an organic dimer layer and an aqueous salt layer. |
| US07960495B2 |
(Meth)acrylate/aspartate amine curatives and coatings and articles comprising the same
(Meth)acrylate/aspartate amine curatives comprising the reaction product of a polyamine, a dialkyl maleate and/or dialkyl fumarate, and a (meth)acrylate are disclosed, as are methods for making the same. A polyurea comprising the reaction product of the acrylate/aspartate amine curative and isocyanate is also disclosed, as are coatings comprising such a polyurea and substrates coated with the same. |
| US07960492B2 |
Polybranched, organic/inorganic hybrid polymer and method for its manufacture
Polybranched, particulate, organic/inorganic hybrid polymer in the form of a sol-gel product having the basic structure: Formula (I) where X is a linkage group chosen among C1-C18-alkylene and arylene, R1-R6 are chosen among hydrogen, C1-C18-alkyl, aryl, formyl, aliphatic or aromatic carbonyl, carbamoyl, sulphonyl, sulphoxyl, phosfonyl, sulphinyl or phosphinyl, or R1-R6 are chosen among condensation products and addition products of acids, alcohols, phenoles, amines, aldehydes or epoxides. |
| US07960491B2 |
Isoolefin-diolefin production process and apparatus therefore
In an isoolefin-diolefin rubber production process (e.g. a butyl rubber production process), the cold rubber slurry produced in the reaction vessel is transported from the reaction vessel to the flash tank during which time the cold slurry may be expressed to separate at least part of the cold liquid reaction medium from the isoolefin-diolefin rubber. The separated cold liquid reaction medium is transported off stream, for example by a mechanical filter, where it can be recycled back into the reaction vessel and/or where it can be used to cool a feed stream or streams of the reaction components. The isoolefin-diolefin rubber and the residual liquid reaction medium are transported to a flash tank for further processing. The ability to separate and recycle cold liquid reaction medium makes the process more economical. In one aspect, the slurry may be transported from the reaction vessel to the flash tank by a self-cleaning fully intermeshing co-rotating twin screw extruder, which helps overcome the problem of plugging due to rubber sticking to the surfaces of the slurry transfer apparatus. |
| US07960484B2 |
Method for transitioning between ziegler-natta and metalocene catalysts in a bulk loop reactor for the production of polypropylene
Polymerization processes in a bulk loop reactor are described herein. In particular, a method of contacting a flow of metallocene with a flow of propylene is provided. This method includes directing the flow of metallocene towards a junction, directing the flow of propylene towards the junction and maintaining a portion of the flow of metallocene separate from a portion of the flow propylene within a portion of the junction downstream of the flow of propylene into the junction. In another embodiment, a method of introducing a quantity of antifouling agent into a catalyst mixing system is provided. In this embodiment a portion of the antifouling agent is introduced at or downstream of a point of contact of a stream of propylene with a stream of catalyst. The antifouling agent may be a member, alone or in combination with other members, selected from Stadis 450 Conductivity Improver, Synperonic antifouling agent, and Pluronic antifouling agent. |
| US07960478B2 |
Fibers and nonwovens comprising polypropylene blends and mixtures
Polypropylene materials comprising a polymeric blend, the polymeric blend comprising: (a) a first linear low density metallocene polyethylene; and (b) a second linear low density polyethylene; wherein the polypropylene material has a first turbidity half time measured under quiescent conditions, and a second turbidity half time measured at a wall shear stress of about 0.11 MPa, and having a certain ratio of the second turbidity half time to the first turbidity half time. |
| US07960473B2 |
Thermoplastic resin composition, production method thereof, and molded article
A thermoplastic resin composition includes a thermoplastic resin (A) and a reactive functional group-containing resin (B), which has a specific structure in the morphology of the resin composition observed by transmission electron microscopy tomography, and the relaxation time T1C of each carbon nucleus by the solid NMR measurement of the thermoplastic resin composition containing a polyamide resin is kept in a specific range. The composition is excellent in the balance between contradictory properties such as impact resistance and heat resistance, remarkably exhibits a peculiar viscoelastic behavior not observed in the conventional polymeric materials, and is remarkably excellent in impact energy absorbing performance and vibration energy absorbing performance at the time of high-speed deformation. |
| US07960467B2 |
Carbon fiber composite material and method of producing the same
A method of producing a carbon fiber composite material including: (a) masticating an elastomer to reduce the molecular weight of the elastomer to obtain a liquid elastomer; (b) mixing the elastomer obtained in the step (a) and carbon nanofibers having an average diameter of 0.5 to 500 nm to obtain a mixture; (c) increasing the molecular weight of the elastomer in the mixture obtained in the step (b) to obtain a rubbery elastic mixture; and (d) mixing the rubbery elastic mixture obtained in the step (c) to disperse the carbon nanofibers in the elastomer by a shear force to obtain a carbon fiber composite material. |
| US07960460B2 |
Free-flowing filler composition and rubber composition containing same
This invention relates to novel free-flowing filler compositions containing sulfur-containing silane coupling agents, and to a rubber containing the filler composition. |
| US07960459B2 |
Curable composition
The present invention has its object to provide a curable composition which comprises a reactive silyl group-containing organic polymer, does not contain, as a silanol condensation catalyst, any organotin type curing catalyst currently of concern because of the toxic feature thereof, is excellent in surface curability and depth curability and, further, can provide cured products excellent in adhesiveness; the above object can be achieved by a curable composition which comprises: an organic polymer (A) containing a silicon-containing group capable of crosslinking under siloxane bond formation; and a guanidine compound (B-1), as a silanol condensation catalyst (B), represented by the general formula (1): R1N═C(NR12)2 (1) (wherein one of the five R1s is an aryl group and the other four R1s each independently is a hydrogen atom or a hydrocarbon group in which the carbon atom at position 1 is saturated). |
| US07960457B2 |
Aqueous mixtures curable physically, thermally or thermally and with actinic radiation
Disclosed herein is an aqueous mixture curable physically, thermally or both thermally and with actinic radiation, comprising (A) at least one polyurethane binder, which is ionically stabilized, nonionically stabilized, or a combination thereof, and which is saturated, unsaturated, grafted with olefinically unsaturated compounds, or a combination thereof; (B) at least one pigment, which is a color pigment, effect pigment, or a combination thereof; and (C) at least one phosphoric ester of the general formula (R1ORO)3P═O, wherein R is an alkanediyl group comprising 2 to 10 carbon atoms and R1 is an alkyl group comprising 2 to 10 carbon atoms. Also disclosed is a process for preparing the foregoing aqueous mixture, and color and/or effect thermoset or thermoplastic materials comprising the same. |
| US07960455B2 |
Use of copolymers containing alkylene oxide units as an additive to aqueous systems
Use of copolymers comprising alkylene oxide units, which copolymers comprise incorporated randomly or blockwise by polymerization (a) 50 to 93 mol % of acrylic acid and/or a water-soluble salt of acrylic acid, (b) 5 to 30 mol % of methacrylic acid and/or a water-soluble salt of methacrylic acid and (c) 2 to 20 mol % of at least one nonionic monomer of the formula I where the variables have the following meaning: R1 hydrogen or methyl; R2 a chemical bond or unbranched or branched C1-C6-alkylene; R3 identical or different unbranched or branched C2-C4-alkylene radicals; R4 unbranched or branched C1-C6-alkyl; n 3 to 50, as additive to phosphate- and/or phosphonate-comprising aqueous systems in industrial technical plants. |
| US07960454B2 |
Processing aids for elastomeric compositions
The invention provides for processes to produce elastomeric compositions, the processes including contacting at least one elastomer with a processing aid, wherein the processing aid comprises at least one functionalized polymer having at least one anhydride group. The invention also provides for articles such as innerliners for tires produced from the aforementioned elastomeric compositions. |
| US07960453B2 |
Crosslinking systems for hydroxyl polymers
Crosslinking systems suitable for use in a polymer melt composition wherein the polymer melt composition comprises a hydroxyl polymer; polymeric structures made from such polymer melt compositions; and processes/methods related thereto are provided. |
| US07960452B2 |
Adhesive composition and method
The invention relates to an adhesive composition comprising at least partly gelatinized starch and one or more polymers (P) containing an amine group or an amide group. It also relates to a method of gluing pieces of wood based materials and to a wood based product. |
| US07960451B2 |
Method for producing polyamide masterbatch
A polyamide masterbatch free from metal copper deposition and metal corrosion in an extruder or a molding machine, deterioration in mechanical physical properties of the product, and a color change of appearance due to water absorption and having improved heat aging resistance is produced by mixing, by melt kneading, a) 100 parts by weight of a polyamide having a water content of from 0.05 to 2.0 wt. %, b) from 0.1 to 10 parts by weight of an organic compound having at least one amide group, c) from 0.1 to 5 parts by weight of a copper compound having a maximum particle size of 50 μm or less, and d) from 1 to 50 parts by weight of a halogen compound (with the proviso that a copper halide is excluded) having a maximum particle size of 50 μm or less. |
| US07960448B2 |
Method for producing puncture sealant
A method for producing a puncture sealant, including: performing a first mixing to mix an anti-freezing agent and water; performing a second mixing to mix a mixed liquid obtained from the first mixing and a rubber latex; and performing a third mixing to mix a mixed liquid obtained from the second mixing and an adhesive agent. |
| US07960445B2 |
Dual cure compositions employing free radical and RTV cure
The present invention relates to dual curing compositions, which cure with moisture and photo radiation, such as UV light, and methods for preparing and using same. In particular, the compositions of the present invention contain a polyether or polyester backbone, photocurable portion(s) and moisture curable portion(s). The photo curable portion is a urethane or carbamate linkage terminated with a (meth)acryloxyalkyl group. The moisture curable portion is either: (1) a portion terminated with a polyalkoxysilyl group; or (2) a portion having a urea linkage terminated with an alkylpolyalkoxysilyl group. |
| US07960444B2 |
Vegetable oil based polyols and polyurethanes made therefrom
Polyols useful in the manufacture of polyurethanes are disclosed. The polyols are prepared by reacting a vegetable oil based (hydroxymethyl containing) monomer with a polyol, polyamine or aminoalcohol under vacuum. |
| US07960443B2 |
Extruded styrenic resin foam and method for producing the same
The present invention relates to an extruded styrenic resin foam and a method for producing the same, wherein a base resin composing the extruded styrenic resin foam is a styrenic resin mixture of a styrene-(meth)acrylic ester copolymer, or a combination of a styrene-(meth)acrylic ester copolymer and polymethyl methacrylate, and a styrenic resin except the styrene-(meth)acrylic ester copolymer, and the styrenic resin mixture contains a (meth)acrylic ester component at a ratio of 4 to 45% by weight with reference to the styrenic resin mixture. The present invention provides an extruded styrenic resin foam having an apparent density of 20 to 60 kg/m3, a thickness of 10 to 150 mm, and a low thermal conductivity, and keeping excellent heat insulation performance over a long period of time and flame retardancy, even when the styrenic resin extruded foam is foamed using a blowing agent having an ozone depleting potential of 0 (zero) and a low global warming potential. |
| US07960442B2 |
Nanoporous media templated from unsymmetrical amphiphilic porogens
Substantially or roughly spherical micellar structures useful in the formation of nanoporous materials by templating are disclosed. A roughly spherical micellar structure is formed by organization of one or more spatially unsymmetric organic amphiphilic molecules. Each of those molecules comprises a branched moiety and a second moiety. The branched moiety can form part of either the core or the surface of the spherical micellar structure, depending on the polarity of the environment. The roughly spherical micellar structures form in a thermosetting polymer matrix. They are employed in a templating process whereby the amphiphilic molecules are dispersed in the polymer matrix, the matrix is cured, and the porogens are then removed, leaving nanoscale pores. |
| US07960438B2 |
Use of agomelatine in obtaining medicaments intended for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder
The present invention relates to the use of agomelatine, or N-[2-(7-methoxy-1-naphthyl)ethyl]acetamide, in obtaining medicaments intended for the treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder. |
| US07960433B2 |
Treatment of chemokine mediated diseases
Methods of treating chemokine-mediated diseases are disclosed. The methods comprise the administration of CXC-Chemokine receptor antagonists of the formula or pharmaceutically acceptable salts or solvates thereof, in combination with other classes of pharmaceutical compounds. The chemokine-mediated diseases include acute and chronic inflammatory disorders, psoriasis, cystic fibrosis, asthma and cancer. Also disclosed are novel compounds of formula (I). |
| US07960431B2 |
Thiophenyl prostaglandin derivatives for treating glaucoma and ocular hypertension
Disclosed herein is a compound according to one of the formulas or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, medicaments for the treatment of glaucoma or ocular hypertension and compositions related thereto, as further elaborated herein. |
| US07960430B2 |
Flavonoid complexes with cyclodextrins
The invention relates to complexes of certain flavonoid derivatives, of the formula I compositions which comprise such derivatives, corresponding processes for the preparation of the flavonoid derivatives or of compositions comprising same, and the use thereof, in particular for the care, preservation or improvement of the general state of the skin or hair. Formula (1), in which Z1 to Z4 and Z6 to Z10 each, independently of one another, denote H, OH, CH3COO, alkoxy, hydroxyalkoxy, mono- or oligoglycoside radicals and where the alkoxy and hydroxyalkoxy groups may be branched and unbranched and can have 1 to 18 C atoms. Formula (II) denotes, Z5 is a mono- or the oligoglycoside radical, where bonded to this glycoside radical, in each case via an —O— group, is at least one radical selected from certain benzo molecule. |
| US07960428B2 |
Enantiomerically pure phosphoindoles as HIV inhibitors
3-phosphoindole compounds substantially in the form of a single enantiomer useful for the treatment of Flaviviridae virus infections, and particularly for HIV infections are provided. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions comprising the 3-phosphoindole compounds alone or in combination with one or more other anti-viral agents, processes for their preparation, and methods of manufacturing a medicament incorporating these compounds. |
| US07960425B2 |
Pyrazole compounds and thrombopoietin receptor activators
A compound represented by the formula (I) (wherein R1, R2, R3 and R4 are as defined in the description), a tautomer, prodrug or pharmaceutically acceptable salt of the compound or a solvate thereof. |
| US07960423B2 |
Imidazole-2-thiones
Compounds of Formula 1 where X is S and the variables have the meaning defined in the specification are specific or selective to alpha2B and/or alpha2C adrenergic receptors in preference over alpha2A adrenergic receptors, and as such have no or only minimal cardivascular and/or sedatory activity. These compounds of Formula 1 are useful as medicaments in mammals, including humans, for treatment of diseases and or alleviations of conditions which are responsive to treatment by agonists of alpha2B adrenergic receptors. Compounds of Formula 1 where X is O also have the advantageous property that they have no or only minimal cardivascular and/or sedatory activity and are useful for treating pain and other conditions with no or only minimal cardivascular and/or sedatory activity. |
| US07960422B2 |
Pharmaceutically active compounds containing tetrazolyl and triazolyl rings
Compounds of formula (I) wherein R1 is as well as pharmaceutically acceptable salts, hydrates and/or enantiomers thereof are useful as compounds that exhibit activity at metabotropic glutamate receptors. |
| US07960419B2 |
Substituted carboxamides
This application relates to a substituted carboxamide compound of formula I, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, as defined herein, a pharmaceutical composition thereof, and its use in treating pain. |
| US07960418B2 |
4β-amino podophyllotoxin congeners as potential anticancer agents and a process for the preparation thereof
The present invention provides new class of 4β-[4″-(1″,3″-benzothiazole-2″-yl)anilino]podophyllotoxin analogues having the structural formula as follows (4). Where R═H or CH3; R1═H, halogen, CH3 and R2═H, halogen, OCH3.The present invention also provides a process for the preparation of new 4β-[4″-(1″, 3″-benzothiazole-2″-yl)anilino]podophyllotoxin analogues as useful anticancer agents. More particularly, it provides a process for the preparation of 4β-[4″-(1″,3″-benzothiazole-2″-yl)anilino] derivatives of podophyllotoxin. The process for the synthesis of new podophyllotoxin analogues as anticancer agents produces the novel and stereo-selective derivatives of the podophyllotoxin in good yields, where in the key step for the synthesis of these analogues is by direct nucleophilic substitution of C-4β-iodo intermediates. The 4β-iodopodophyllotoxin, which has been reacted with substituted or unsubstituted 4-(1,3-benzothiazole-2-yl)aniline in a stereo-selective manner to afford the 4β-[4″-(1″,3″-benzothiazole-2″-yl)anilino] derivatives of podophyllotoxin. |
| US07960416B2 |
Stable emulsion composition
An emulsion composition comprising (1) a compound (I) represented by the formula (I) wherein each symbol is as defined in the specification (2) an anionic synthetic phospholipid in a proportion of about 0.0001 about 5% (W/V) relative to the composition in total, and (3) a naturally-occurring phospholipid in a proportion of about 0.1 about 10% (W/V) relative to the composition in total is provided. |
| US07960406B2 |
Diketo substituted pyrrolo[2,3-c] pyridines
Compounds having drug and bio-affecting properties, their pharmaceutical compositions and methods of use are set forth. In particular, diketo fused azolopiperidine and azolopiperazine derivatives of Formula I: that possess unique antiviral activity are provided. These compounds are useful for the treatment of HIV and AIDS. |
| US07960405B2 |
Compounds and methods for treatment and prevention of diseases
A prodrug compound of a rapamycin analog and methods for inhibiting, treating, and preventing mammalian diseases. |
| US07960402B2 |
Carbamoyl-substituted spiro derivative
A compound represented by, e.g. the formula (I): [wherein X, Y, Z, and W each independently represent optionally substituted methine; A, B, and D each independently represent —C(O)—, etc.; Q represents a methine or a nitrogen; and R represents the formula (II-1), optionally substituted with lower alkyl, etc.; (wherein R6 represents a lower alkyl, etc; and R7 and R8 each independently represents a lower alkyl, etc.)] or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of the compound. The compounds and salt have antagonistic activity against a histamine H3 receptor or inverse agonistic activity against a histamine H3 receptor. They are useful in the prevention or treatment of metabolic diseases, circulatory diseases, or neurotic diseases. |
| US07960400B2 |
Tricyclic compounds having cytostatic and/or cytotoxic activity and methods of use thereof
The present invention provides tricyclic compounds having cytostatic and cytotoxic activity in a single molecule having receptor tyrosine kinase(s), dihydrofolate reductase, thymidylate synthase and/or dihydroorotate dehydrogenase inhibitory activity, which are useful as anti-angiogenic and anti-tumor agents. Also provided are methods of utilizing these inhibitors to treat tumor cells and other proliferative diseases and disorders. |
| US07960391B2 |
Heterocyclylethylbenzamide derivatives
A compound of general formula (I): A process for preparing this compound.A fungicide composition comprising a compound of general formula (I).A method for treating plants by applying a compound of general formula (I) or a composition comprising it. |
| US07960389B2 |
4(phenyl-piperazinyl-methyl) benzamide derivatives and their use for the treatment of pain or gastrointestinal disorders
Compounds of general formula: wherein R1, R2 and R3 are as defined in the specification, as well as salts, enantiomers thereof and pharmaceutical compositions including the compounds are prepared. They are useful in therapy, in particular in the management of pain. |
| US07960388B2 |
3-(imidazolyl)-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridines
Compounds are provided that act as potent antagonists of the CCR1 receptor, and have in vivo anti-inflammatory activity. The compounds are 3-imidazoyl-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine derivatives and are useful in pharmaceutical compositions, methods for the treatment of CCR1-mediated disease, and as controls in assays for the identification of competitive CCR1 antagonists. |
| US07960386B2 |
Pyridin-2-one compounds and their use as modulators of the dopamine D3 receptor
The invention relates to pyridin-2-one compounds of general formula (I) in which A represents a 4- to 6-membered hydrocarbon chain that can have 1 or 2 methyl groups as substituents, wherein 1 or 2 carbon atoms can be replaced by oxygen, a carbonyl group or sulfur, and the hydrocarbon chain can have a double bond or a triple bond; R1, R2, R3 and R4 have the meanings as cited in the claims and in the description. The invention also relates to the tautomers of compounds I and the physiologically acceptable salts of the compounds I and their tautomers.The invention also relates to the use of these compounds for treating diseases that respond to the influence of dopamine D3 receptor antagonists or agonists. |
| US07960383B2 |
Pyridazin-3(2H)-one derivatives and their use as PDE4 inhibitors
The invention relates to new therapeutically useful pyridazin-3(2H)-one derivatives of Formula (I) and to pharmaceutical compositions containing them. These compounds are potent and selective inhibitors of phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) and are thus useful in the treatment, prevention or suppression of pathological conditions, diseases and disorders known to be susceptible of being improved by inhibition of PDE4 such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, rheumatoid arthritis, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis or irritable bowel disease. |
| US07960382B2 |
Compounds and their use related to compositions for treating disease
Novel compounds and their uses are disclosed herein. |
| US07960380B2 |
Non-anilinic derivatives of isothiazol-3(2H)-one 1,1-dioxides as liver X receptor modulators
The present invention relates to certain novel compounds of the formula (I) to processes for preparing such compounds, to their the utility in modulation of nuclear hormone receptors Liver X Receptor (LXR) α (NR1H3) and/or β (NR1H2) and in treating and/or preventing clinical conditions including cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis; inflammatory diseases, Alzheimer's disease, lipid disorders (dyslipidemias) whether or not associated with insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes and other manifestations of the metabolic syndrome, to methods for their therapeutic use and to pharmaceutical compositions containing them. |
| US07960375B2 |
8-chloro-2,3-benzodiazepine derivatives
The invention relates to new 8-chloro-2,3-benzodiazepine derivatives of the general formula (I), wherein R stands for a lower alkyl group or a group of the general formula —NH—R′, wherein R′ stands for a lower alkyl or a lower cycloalkyl group), and pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salts thereof. The invention also encompasses a process for the preparation of said compounds, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and new intermediates useful for the preparation of the new 8-chloro-2,3-benzodiazepine derivatives. The compounds according to the invention possess AMPA/kainate receptor inhibiting activity. |
| US07960374B2 |
Tricyclic compounds, compositions, and methods useful in the treatment or prophylaxis of 5-HT6 receptor-related disorders
The present invention relates to compounds of the formula (I) wherein A, X and R1 to R9 are as described herein; to pharmaceutical compositions comprising the said compounds; to processes for their preparation; and to the use of the compounds as medicaments against 5-HT6 receptor-related disorders. |
| US07960371B2 |
High-purity large-scale preparation of stannsoporfin
Large scale (bulk) compositions comprising high-purity stannsoporfin are disclosed, as well as methods of synthesizing such compositions. |
| US07960367B2 |
Pregnane steroids and their use in the treatment of CNS disorders
Steroid compounds processing a hydrogen donor in 3beta position, either in the form of a hydroxy- or a sulfate group, function as efficient blockers of the 3alpha-hydroxy-pregnan-steroid action and thus have utility as therapeutic substances for the prevention and/or treatment of steroid related CNS disorders. Treatment methods based on the administration of these substances are disclosed, and these substances either alone or in combination are also suggested for the manufacture of pharmaceuticals for the treatment of many specific steroid induced CNS disorders. |
| US07960363B2 |
Therapeutic agent for wounds and screening method for the same
The present invention provides an agent for treating wound, containing a substance that suppresses the expression or function of PDLIM2. The substance that suppresses the expression or function of PDLIM2 is preferably an siRNA or antisense nucleic acid capable of specifically suppressing the expression of PDLIM2, or an expression vector capable of expressing said polynucleotide. In addition, the present invention provides a method of screening for a substance capable of treating wounds, including determining whether or not a test substance is capable of suppressing the expression or function of PDLIM2. |
| US07960357B2 |
PKR activation via hybridization chain reaction
The present application relates to the use of hybridization chain reaction (HCR) to form double stranded RNA polymers in the presence of a target, such as a nucleic acid associated with a disease or disorder. The RNA polymers are preferably able to activate the RNA-dependent kinase PKR. Activation of PKR via RNA-HCR can be used to treat a wide variety of diseases and disorders by specifically targeting diseased cells. |
| US07960353B2 |
Novobiocin analogues as neuroprotective agents and in the treatment of autoimmune disorders
Novobiocin analogues and pharmaceutical composition containing such compounds useful for the treatment and/or prevention of neurodegenerative disorders and autoimmune disorders. |
| US07960349B2 |
N-terminally modified GLP-1 receptor modulators
The subject matter described herein provides novel human glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor modulators that have biological activity similar or superior to native GLP-1 peptide and thus are useful for the treatment or prevention of diseases or disorders associated with GLP activity. The described compounds include chemically modified peptides that may stimulate insulin secretion in type II diabetics, but also produce other beneficial insulinotropic responses. These synthetic peptide GLP-1 receptor modulators exhibit increased stability to proteolytic cleavage making them ideal therapeutic candidates for oral or parenteral administration. The disclosed and claimed peptides show desirable pharmacokinetic properties and desirable potency in efficacy models of diabetes. |
| US07960343B2 |
Activin-ActRIIa antagonists and uses for decreasing or inhibiting FSH secretion
In certain aspects, the present invention provides compositions and methods for decreasing FSH levels in a patient. The patient may, for example, be diagnosed with an FSH-related disorder or desire to delay or inhibit germ cell maturation. |
| US07960340B2 |
Cystine knot molecules
The present invention relates generally to a molecular framework having a cyclic structure. More particularly, the present invention provides cyclic proteins and derivatives thereof in which particular turns and other elements of the molecular structure are held in defined orientations with respect to each other. The cyclic proteins of the present invention provide a molecular framework for the introduction of particular amino acids or heterologous amino acid sequences to facilitate the presentation of biological activities associated with these heterologous amino acid sequences. The molecular framework of the present invention may be naturally cyclic or may be a cyclized derivative of a linear molecular or may be a linear derivative of a cyclized molecule. The present invention contemplates the use of the molecular framework with or without particular amino acids inserted or substituted thereon for the treatment of or prophylaxis of disease conditions in animals, mammals (including humans) and plants. |
| US07960339B2 |
Antimicrobial peptides
The present invention relates to families of polypeptides and lipopolypeptides that have antimicrobial and endotoxin-neutralizing activities. These molecules show a broad spectrum of activity against various pathogens (including bacteria, viruses, fungi etc.) These compounds can be used alone or in combination therapy with conventional antibiotics or antiendotoxic agents. In addition, the present invention discloses processes for making and using of the compounds. |
| US07960337B2 |
Parenteral combination therapy for infective conditions with drug resistant bacterium
The invention describes a pharmaceutical composition to combat multiple-drug-resistant bacteria in non-ocular infective conditions. Compositions comprising glycopeptides, in particular vancomycin, and cephalosporins, in particular ceftriaxone, are disclosed. Such compositions are found to be useful for parenteral administration for hospitalized patients with serious infections. Specifically, this invention also discloses a pharmaceutical composition further including an excipient such as CVMC agent and is available in dry powder form for reconstitution before injection with a suitable solvent. The pharmaceutical compositions of this invention have been found normally to enhance resistance to precipitation in solutions to be administered parenterally. The invention also gives details of the dosage forms stored in sealed containers to be reconstituted before use. The invention further provides a process to manufacture these compositions and also a method of treating a subject having non-ocular infective conditions due to multi drug resistant bacterium. |
| US07960335B2 |
Octreotide implant having a release agent and uses thereof
Methods, formulations and kits are described that allow for the controlled release of octreotide, e.g., octreotide acetate, in a subject. |
| US07960331B2 |
Replacement solvents having improved properties and methods of using the same
CFC replacement solvent compositions, methods of using the same and methods of making the same. These compositions meet or exceed the solvency, flammability, and compatibility requirements for CFC's while providing similar or improved environmental and toxicological properties. These solvent compositions have applications including, but not limited to, oxygen handling, refrigeration or heat pumps, electronics, implantable prosthetic devices, and optical equipment. |
| US07960328B2 |
Composition and method for recycling semiconductor wafers having low-k dielectric materials thereon
A removal composition and process for removing low-k dielectric material, etch stop material, and/or metal stack material from a rejected microelectronic device structure having same thereon. The removal composition includes hydrofluoric acid. The composition achieves at least partial removal of the material(s) from the surface of the microelectronic device structure having same thereon, for recycling and/or reuse of said structure, without damage to the underlying polysilicon or bare silicon layer employed in the semiconductor architecture. |
| US07960327B2 |
Cleansing composition
Provided is a detergent composition containing a polyoxyethylene alkyl ether sulfate or an alkyl sulfate which composition is excellent and creamy in foam quality, and excellent in storage stability. The detergent composition contains the following components (A), (B) and (C): (A) a polyoxyethylene alkyl ether sulfate or an alkyl sulfate represented by a general formula (1): R1O(CH2CH2O)nSO3M (1); (B) myristyl alcohol; (C) one or more nonionic surfactants selected from the group consisting of an alkoxylate (C-1) represented by a general formula (2) and a glyceryl ether (C-2) represented by a general formula (3): R2O-(AO)n—R3 (2) wherein the weight ratio of the component (A) to the component (B) is (A)/(B)=91.5/8.5 to 80/20, the weight ratio of the component (A) to the component (C) is (A)/(C)=98/2 to 85/15, the weight ratio of the component (B) to the component (C) is (B)/(C)=90/10 to 30/70, and the content of the component (B) is 1.6 to 14% by weight. |
| US07960324B2 |
Additive composition having low temperature viscosity corrosion and detergent properties
An additive composition providing improved low temperature viscosity, corrosion and detergent properties when used in lubricating oils for internal combustion engines is presented. The additive composition comprises an unsulfurized carboxylate detergent-dispersant additive having been modified by incorporation of from about 3.2 wt % to 7.5 wt %, based on the total additive composition, of an alkaline earth metal salt of a linear, saturated carboxylic acid having from about 16 to about 20 carbon atoms and wherein the additive composition has a superalkalinization ratio of less than about 1.4:1, a TBN of less than about 200 and a sediment value of less than about 0.2% by volume. |
| US07960319B2 |
Lubricating oil composition
A lubricating oil composition favorably employable for trunk piston diesel engines contains an overbased sulfurized alkylphenol calcium salt, at least two (preferably three) overbased alkylsalicylic acid calcium salts having different base ratios and hydrocarbyl groups of different carbon atom numbers, a borated ashless dispersant, and a zinc dihydrocarbyldithiophosphate. |
| US07960315B2 |
Treatment fluids comprising diutan and associated methods
Methods are provided that include a method comprising providing a acidic treatment fluid that comprises a base fluid, an acid composition, and a gelling agent that comprises clarified diutan; and introducing the acidic treatment fluid into at least a portion of a subterranean formation. In some embodiments, the acidic treatment fluid may be allowed to interact with a component of the subterranean formation so that the component is at least partially dissolved. In some embodiments, the acidic treatment fluid may be introduced into a pipeline. Additional methods are also provided. |
| US07960313B2 |
Combinatorial processing including stirring
Combinatorial processing including stirring is described, including defining multiple regions of a substrate, processing the multiple regions of the substrate in a combinatorial manner, introducing a fluid into a first aperture at a first end of a body to dispense the fluid out of a second aperture at a second end of the body and into one of the multiple regions, and agitating the fluid using an impeller at a second end of the body to facilitate interaction of the fluid with a surface of the substrate. |
| US07960306B2 |
Photo-energy transformation catalysts and methods for fabricating the same
Photo energy transformation catalysts and methods for fabricating the same are provided. The method includes mixing a solution containing a positive valence element of Group IB, a solution containing a positive valence element of Group IIIA, and a solution containing a negative valence element of Group VIA to obtain a composition and forming a film from the composition by liquid phase deposition, wherein the film contains compounds including the elements of Group IB, Group IIIA, and Group VIA. |
| US07960305B2 |
Polymerization catalyst composition and process for production of polymer
A polymerization catalyst composition for a radically polymerizable monomer of the present invention comprises a transition metal-containing phosphazenium composition which is produced by mixing a phosphazenium compound with a compound of a transition metal belonging to Groups 4 to 12 in the periodic table and an organic halogen compound. |
| US07960298B2 |
Method for weaving closed structures with intersecting walls
The present invention generally relates to a woven preform for reinforced composite materials and a method of making thereof. Specifically, the present invention is a method of machine weaving fiber preforms for polymer matrix composites that consist of closed perimeters with multiple intersecting members in their interiors. More specifically, the invention is a woven preform and a method of forming thereof with closed cells at the outer edges with continuous hoop reinforcement in each cell of the preform. The woven preform is woven flat in both the warp and weft directions, and then unfolded to achieve the final shape of the structure, and can be processed into composite structural components using known methods such as resin transfer molding or chemical vapor infiltration. Thus, complicated shapes of all sizes can be woven on a conventional loom using the instant method. |
| US07960295B2 |
Film transistor and method for fabricating the same
A method for fabricating a thin film transistor and a thin film transistor includes a polycrystalline silicon layer formed by irradiating an amorphous silicon layer with a laser beam through an organic layer formed on the amorphous silicon layer and removing the organic layer. |
| US07960289B2 |
Etching method, pattern forming process, thin-film transistor fabrication process, and etching solution
An etching method is provided in which selective etching can be carried out for an amorphous oxide semiconductor film including at least one of gallium and zinc, and indium. In the etching method, the selective etching is performed using an alkaline etching solution. The alkaline etching solution contains especially ammonia in a specific concentration range. |
| US07960288B2 |
Photoresist trimming process
A photoresist trimming gas compound is provided which will selectively remove a resist foot or scum from the lower portions of sidewalls of a photoresist. Additionally, the trimmer compound hardens or toughens an upper surface of the photoresist thereby strengthening the photoresist. The trimmer compound includes O2 and at least one other gaseous oxide and is typically utilized in a dry etching process after a trench has been formed in a photoresist. The other oxide gases, in addition to the O2 may include CO2, SO2 and NO2. |
| US07960287B2 |
Methods for fabricating FinFET structures having different channel lengths
Methods for fabricating FinFET structures having gate structures of different gate widths are provided. The methods include the formation of sidewall spacers of different thicknesses to define gate structures of the FinFET structures with different gate widths. The width of a sidewall spacer is defined by the height of the structure about which the sidewall spacer is formed, the thickness of the sidewall spacer material layer from which the spacer is formed, and the etch parameters used to etch the sidewall spacer material layer. By forming structures of varying height, forming the sidewall spacer material layer of varying thickness, or a combination of these, sidewall spacers of varying width can be fabricated and subsequently used as an etch mask so that gate structures of varying widths can be formed simultaneously. |
| US07960285B2 |
Method for the production of a component structure
A method for the production of a component structure. On embodiment provides a semiconductor body having a first side. A first trench and a second trench are produced, which extend into the semiconductor body proceeding from the first side and are arranged at a distance from one another in a lateral direction of the semiconductor body. A first material layer in the first trench is produced. A third trench proceeding from the second trench is produced, extending as far as the first material layer in the first lateral direction. |
| US07960282B2 |
Method of manufacture an integrated circuit system with through silicon via
A method of manufacture of an integrated circuit system includes: providing a substrate including an active device; forming a through-silicon-via into the substrate; forming an insulation layer over the through-silicon-via to protect the through-silicon-via; forming a contact to the active device after forming the insulation layer; and removing the insulation layer. |
| US07960280B2 |
Process method to fully salicide (FUSI) both N-poly and P-poly on a CMOS flow
An improved method of forming a fully silicided (FUSI) gate in both NMOS and PMOS transistors of the same MOS device is disclosed. In one example, the method comprises forming a first silicide in at least a top portion of a gate electrode of the PMOS devices and not over the NMOS devices. The method further comprises concurrently forming a second silicide in at least a top portion of a gate electrode of both the NMOS and PMOS devices, and forming a FUSI gate silicide of the gate electrodes. In one embodiment, the thickness of the second silicide is greater than the first silicide by an amount which compensates for a difference in the rates of silicide formation between the NMOS and PMOS devices. |
| US07960278B2 |
Method of film deposition
The present invention is a method of film deposition that comprises a film-depositing step of supplying a high-melting-point organometallic material gas and a nitrogen-containing gas to a processing vessel that can be evacuated, so as to deposit a thin film of a metallic compound of a high-melting-point metal on a surface of an object to be processed placed in the processing vessel. A partial pressure of the nitrogen-containing gas during the film-depositing step is 17% or lower, in order to increase carbon density contained in the thin film. |
| US07960276B2 |
Conductor-dielectric structure and method for fabricating
A conductor-dielectric interconnect structure is fabricated by providing a structure comprising a dielectric layer having a patterned feature therein; depositing a plating seed layer on the dielectric layer in the patterned feature; depositing a sacrificial seed layer on the plating seed layer in the via; reducing the thickness of the sacrificial seed layer by reverse plating; and plating a conductive metal on the sacrificial seed layer in the patterned feature. Also provided is a dielectric layer having a via therein; a plating seed layer on the dielectric layer in the patterned feature; and a discontinuous sacrificial seed layer located in the patterned feature. |
| US07960275B2 |
Method for manufacturing an interconnection structure with cavities for an integrated circuit
A method for manufacturing a structure of electrical interconnections for an integrated circuit having levels of interconnections, the method having steps of depositing a layer of sacrificial material on the substrate, etching the layer of sacrificial material with a pattern corresponding to electrical conductors, depositing, on the etched layer of the layer of sacrificial material, a layer of permeable membrane allowing an attack agent to break down the sacrificial material, breaking down the sacrificial material by using the attack agent to form air gaps to replace the broken down sacrificial material, forming electrical conductors in the etched track so as to obtain electrical interconnections separated by air gaps, and depositing a layer of insulating material to cover the electrical interconnections. |
| US07960273B2 |
Metal interconnection of a semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the same
A method of manufacturing a metal interconnection of a semiconductor device includes forming a base layer with at least one groove, the at least one groove having an open upper portion, forming a first metal layer in the at least one groove, forming a seed metal layer on the first metal layer in the at least one groove, the seed metal layer being only on a bottom surface of the at least one groove, and forming a metal pattern grown from the seed metal layer to fill the at least one grove. |
| US07960266B2 |
Spacer patterns using assist layer for high density semiconductor devices
High density semiconductor devices and methods of fabricating the same are provided. Spacer fabrication techniques are utilized to form circuit elements having reduced feature sizes, which in some instances are smaller than the smallest lithographically resolvable element size of the process being used. Spacers are formed that serve as a mask for etching one or more layers beneath the spacers. An etch stop pad layer having a material composition substantially similar to the spacer material is provided between a dielectric layer and an insulating sacrificial layer such as silicon nitride. When etching the sacrificial layer, the matched pad layer provides an etch stop to avoid damaging and reducing the size of the dielectric layer. The matched material compositions further provide improved adhesion for the spacers, thereby improving the rigidity and integrity of the spacers. |
| US07960261B2 |
Method for manufacturing crystalline semiconductor film and method for manufacturing thin film transistor
The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a polycrystalline semiconductor film that can be used for a semiconductor device. In the method, an amorphous semiconductor film is irradiated with a femtosecond laser to be crystallized. By laser irradiation using a femtosecond laser, when an amorphous semiconductor film over which a cap film is formed is crystallized with a laser, it becomes possible to perform crystallization of the semiconductor film and removal of the cap film at the same time. Therefore, a step of removing the cap film in a later step can be omitted. |
| US07960258B2 |
Method for fabricating nanoscale thermoelectric device
The present invention discloses a method for fabricating a nanoscale thermoelectric device, which comprises steps: providing at least one template having a group of nanoscale pores; forming a substrate on the bottom of the template; injecting a molten semiconductor material into the nanoscale pores to form a group of semiconductor nanoscale wires; removing the substrate to obtain a semiconductor nanoscale wire array; and using metallic conductors to cascade at least two semiconductor nanoscale wire arrays to form a thermoelectric device having a higher thermoelectric conversion efficiency. |
| US07960254B2 |
Manufacturing method for epitaxial wafer
To provide a manufacturing method for an epitaxial wafer that alleviates distortions on a back surface thereof due to sticking between a wafer and a susceptor, thereby preventing decrease in flatness thereof due to a lift pin. A manufacturing method for an epitaxial wafer according to the present invention includes: an oxide film forming step in which an oxide film is formed on a back surface thereof; an etching step in which a hydrophobic portion exposing a back surface of the semiconductor wafer is provided by partially removing the oxide film; a wafer placing step in which the semiconductor wafer is placed; and an epitaxial growth step in which an epitaxial layer is grown on a main surface of the semiconductor wafer; and the diameter of the lift pin installation circle provided on a circle on a bottom face of a susceptor is smaller than that of the hydrophobic portion. |
| US07960253B2 |
Thin silicon wafer with high gettering ability and production method thereof
In a silicon wafer having an oxygen precipitate layer, a depth of DZ layer ranging from a wafer surface to an oxygen precipitate layer is 2 to 10 μm and an oxygen precipitate concentration of the oxygen precipitate layer is not less than 5×107 precipitates/cm3. |
| US07960247B2 |
Die thinning processes and structures
Microelectronic dies are thinned according to a variety of approaches, which may include bonding the dies to a substrate under vacuum, disposing a film over the dies and the substrate, and/or changing a center of pressure during thinning. |
| US07960245B2 |
Dual wired integrated circuit chips
A semiconductor device having wiring levels on opposite sides and a method of fabricating a semiconductor structure having contacts to devices and wiring levels on opposite sides. The method including fabricating a device on a silicon-on-insulator substrate with first contacts to the devices and wiring levels on a first side to the first contacts, removing a lower silicon layer to expose the buried oxide layer, forming second contacts to the devices through the buried oxide layer and forming wiring levels over the buried oxide layer to the second contacts. |
| US07960237B2 |
Structure and method for mosfet with reduced extension resistance
The present invention provides a method in which a low-resistance connection between the MOS channel and silicided source/drain regions is provided that has an independence from the extension ion implant process as well as device overlap capacitance. The method of the present invention broadly includes selectively removing outer spacers of an MOS structure and then selectively plating a metallic or intermetallic material on exposed portions of a semiconductor substrate that were previously protected by the outer spacers. The present invention also provides a semiconductor structure that is formed utilizing the method. The semiconductor structure includes a low-resistance connection between the silicided source/drain regions and the channel regions which includes a selectively plated metallic or intermetallic material. |
| US07960236B2 |
Phosphorus containing Si epitaxial layers in N-type source/drain junctions
Methods for formation of epitaxial layers containing n-doped silicon are disclosed. Specific embodiments pertain to the formation and treatment of epitaxial layers in semiconductor devices, for example, Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor (MOSFET) devices. In specific embodiments, the formation of the n-doped epitaxial layer involves exposing a substrate in a process chamber to deposition gases including a silicon source, a carbon source and an n-dopant source. An epitaxial layer may have considerable tensile stress which may be created in a significant amount by a high concentration of n-dopant. A layer having n-dopant may also have substitutional carbon. Phosphorus as an n-dopant with a high concentration is provided. A substrate having an epitaxial layer with a high level of n-dopant is also disclosed. |
| US07960234B2 |
Multiple-gate MOSFET device and associated manufacturing methods
One embodiment of the present invention relates to a method of fabricating a multi-gate transistor. During the method a second gate electrode material is selectively removed from a semiconductor structure from which the multi-gate transistor is formed, thereby exposing at least one surface of a first gate electrode material. The exposed surface of the first gate electrode material is deglazed. Subsequently, the first gate electrode material is removed. Other methods and devices are also disclosed. |
| US07960233B2 |
MOSFET with a second poly and an inter-poly dielectric layer over gate for synchronous rectification
This invention discloses a new trenched vertical semiconductor power device that includes a capacitor formed between a conductive layer covering over an inter-dielectric layer disposed on top of a trenched gate. In a specific embodiment, the trenched vertical semiconductor power device may be a trenched metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET) power device. The trenched gate is a trenched polysilicon gate and the conductive layer is a second polysilicon layer covering an inter-poly dielectric layer disposed on top of the trenched polysilicon gate. The conductive layer is further connected to a source of the vertical power device. |
| US07960228B2 |
Methods of making a ferroelectric memory device having improved interfacial characteristics
The present invention provides a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device, including the steps of: forming a first ferroelectric film on a first conductive film by a film-forming method including at least a step of forming a film by a sol-gel method; forming a second ferroelectric film on the first ferroelectric film by a sputtering method; forming a second conductive film on the second ferroelectric film; and forming a capacitor provided with a lower electrode, a capacitor dielectric film and an upper electrode by patterning the first conductive film, the first and second ferroelectric films and the second conductive film. |
| US07960225B1 |
Method of controlling film thinning of semiconductor wafer for solid-state image sensing device
The thickness of a semiconductor wafer layer, extending from a mirror-finished surface thereof to a solid-state image sensing device, is measured. Based on the residual thickness data, plasma etching is performed from the mirror-finished surface until a predetermined thickness is reached by controlling the plasma etching amount. By doing this, it is possible to reduce variation in the thickness of the solid-state image sensing device at low cost without causing an increase in the number of processes. |
| US07960222B1 |
System and method for manufacturing double EPI N-type lateral diffusion metal oxide semiconductor transistors
A system and a method are disclosed for manufacturing double epitaxial layer N-type lateral diffusion metal oxide semiconductor transistors. In one embodiment two N-type buried layers are used to minimize the operation of a parasitic PNP bipolar transistor. The use of two N-type buried layers increases the base width of the parasitic PNP bipolar transistor without significantly decreasing the peak doping profiles in the two N-type buried layers. In one embodiment two N-type buried layers and one P-type buried layer are used to form a protection NPN bipolar transistor that minimizes the operation of parasitic NPN bipolar transistor. The N-type lateral diffusion metal oxide semiconductor transistors of the invention are useful in inductive full load or half bridge converter circuits that drive very high current. |
| US07960218B2 |
Method for fabricating high-speed thin-film transistors
This invention provides methods for fabricating high speed TFTs from silicon-on-insulator and bulk single crystal semiconductor substrates, such as Si(100) and Si(110) substrates. The TFTs may be designed to have a maximum frequency of oscillation of 3 GHz, or better. |
| US07960215B2 |
Electronic device, electronic apparatus mounted with electronic device, article equipped with electronic device and method of producing electronic device
An electronic device includes: a base; a conductor pattern formed on the base; and a circuit chip electrically connected to the conductor pattern. The electronic device further includes a reinforcing member which is disposed on the base to surround the circuit chip, whose outer shape is like a ring, and which includes layers stacked in the thickness direction of the base. The lowermost layer of the layers is closest to the base and softer than the layer that is at least one of the remaining layers. The electronic device further includes a sealing member which fills an inside of the reinforcing member while covering the top of the circuit chip, thereby sealing the circuit chip on the base. |
| US07960207B2 |
Organic thin film transistor and method of fabricating the same
An organic thin film transistor (OTFT) and a method of fabricating the same are provided in which an organic layer and metal interconnections are formed to have certain linewidths and shapes such that a degradation of device characteristics is prevented. The method includes providing a substrate, forming a gate electrode on the substrate, forming a gate insulating layer on the gate electrode, forming source and drain electrodes on the gate insulating layer, and forming a semiconductor layer on the source and drain electrodes. The gate electrode is formed by an inkjet printing method and ablated by a laser. |
| US07960205B2 |
Tellurium precursors for GST films in an ALD or CVD process
The present invention is a process of making a germanium-antimony-tellurium alloy film using a process selected from the group consisting of atomic layer deposition and chemical vapor deposition, wherein a silyltellurium precursor is used as a source of tellurium for the alloy film and is reacted with an alcohol during the deposition process. |
| US07960199B2 |
Thin film transistor (TFT) array substrate and fabricating method thereof that protect the TFT and a pixel electrode without a protective film
A thin film transistor array substrate and a fabricating method thereof are disclosed. The thin film transistor array substrate protects a thin film transistor without a protective film and accordingly reduces the manufacturing cost. In the thin film transistor array substrate, a gate electrode is connected to a gate line. A source electrode is connected to a data line crossing the gate line to define a pixel area. A drain electrode is opposed to the source electrode with a channel therebetween. A semiconductor layer is in the channel. A pixel electrode in the pixel area contacts the drain electrode over substantially the entire overlapping area between the two. A channel protective film is provided on the semiconductor layer corresponding to the channel to protect the semiconductor layer. |
| US07960198B2 |
Method of making a semiconductor device with surge current protection
A wide bandgap semiconductor device with surge current protection and a method of making the device are described. The device comprises a low doped n-type region formed by plasma etching through the first epitaxial layer grown on a heavily doped n-type substrate and a plurality of heavily doped p-type regions formed by plasma etching through the second epitaxial layer grown on the first epitaxial layer. Ohmic contacts are formed on p-type regions and on the backside of the n-type substrate. Schottky contacts are formed on the top surface of the n-type region. At normal operating conditions, the current in the device flows through the Schottky contacts. The device, however, is capable of withstanding extremely high current densities due to conductivity modulation caused by minority carrier injection from p-type regions. |
| US07960197B2 |
Method of making a solid-state imaging device
A solid-state imaging device includes the following elements. A photoelectric conversion section is arranged in a semiconductor layer having a first surface through which light enters the photoelectric conversion section. A signal circuit section is arranged in a second surface of the semiconductor layer opposite to the first surface. The signal circuit section processes signal charge obtained by photoelectric conversion by the photoelectric conversion section. A reflective layer is arranged on the second surface of the semiconductor layer opposite to the first surface. The reflective layer reflects light transmitted through the photoelectric conversion section back thereto. The reflective layer is composed of a single tungsten layer or a laminate containing a tungsten layer. |
| US07960196B2 |
Light-emitting device, light-emitting element and method of manufacturing same
Provided are a light-emitting element and a light-emitting device, and methods of fabricating the same. The method of fabricating a light-emitting element includes forming a buffer layer on a substrate and forming photonic crystal patterns and a pad pattern on the buffer layer. Each of the pad pattern and the photonic crystal patterns are made of a metal material, and the pad pattern is physically connected to the photonic crystal patterns. Forming a light-emitting structure includes sequentially stacking a first conductive pattern of a first conductivity type, a light-emitting pattern, and a second conductive pattern of a second conductivity type on the buffer layer. And the method also includes forming a first electrode that is electrically connected to the first conductive pattern and forming a second electrode that is electrically connected to the second conductive pattern. |
| US07960194B2 |
Method for manufacturing a reflective surface sub-assembly for a light-emitting device
A method for manufacturing a reflective surface sub-assembly for a light-emitting device, comprising a substrate, at least one area reserved for placement of a light-emitting device assembly on the substrate, and a diffusive reflective layer applied on selected regions on the substrate, wherein if the light-emitting device assembly were placed onto the at least one area then the diffusive reflective layer would reflect photons emitted by the light-emitting device assembly is disclosed. |
| US07960191B2 |
Composite laser element and laser oscillator employing it
The present invention provides a composite laser element that solves the problems encountered with a conventional laser medium composed of an Nd:YAG single crystal or polycrystal, and exhibits excellent performance as a laser medium. The invention relates to a laser element in which two or more crystal materials are joined, wherein (1) at least one of the crystal materials is a transparent crystal material capable of laser oscillation, including a laser active element in a matrix crystal, and (2) the transparent crystal material capable of laser oscillation and/or a second crystal body joined thereto is a polycrystal. |
| US07960190B2 |
Temporary package for at-speed functional test of semiconductor chip
In some embodiments, a temporary package for at-speed functional test of semiconductor chip, including high power chips, is presented. In this regard, a method is introduced including placing an integrated circuit die on a contactor layer, the contactor layer to electrically couple contacts on the integrated circuit die with contacts on a multi-layer substrate designed to be permanently attached with the integrated circuit die, placing an integrated heat spreader over the integrated circuit die, and bonding the integrated heat spreader with the substrate, the integrated heat spreader holding the integrated circuit die in place to form a temporary package. Other embodiments are also disclosed and claimed. |
| US07960189B2 |
Method of manufacturing a system in package
A system in package (10) has a, preferably wireless, test controller (20) for testing each die (30) after it has been mounted onto the substrate of the system in package (10), and a faulty die (30) is repaired before a next die (30) is mounted onto the substrate (15). This way, the system in package (10) can be tested during the intermediate stages of its manufacturing, thus ensuring that all dies (30) function correctly before sealing the dies in the single package. Consequently, a method for manufacturing a system in package (10) is obtained that has an improved yield compared to known manufacturing methods. |
| US07960188B2 |
Polishing method
A method for polishing a substrate having a metal film thereon is described. The substrate has metal interconnects formed from part of the metal film. The polishing method includes performing a first polishing process of removing the metal film, after the first polishing process, performing a second polishing process of removing the barrier film, after the second polishing process, performing a third polishing process of polishing the insulating film. During the second polishing process and the third polishing process, a polishing state of the substrate is monitored with an eddy current sensor, and the third polishing process is terminated when an output signal of the eddy current sensor reaches a predetermined threshold. |
| US07960187B2 |
Recovery processing method to be adopted in substrate processing apparatus, substrate processing apparatus and program
The present invention provides a recovery processing method to restore the substrate processing apparatus to an operating state after correcting an abnormality having occurred in the substrate processing apparatus in operation and having resulted in a stop in the operation, comprising a substrate retrieval step in which substrate salvage processing is first executed for a wafer W left in a chamber in the substrate processing apparatus in correspondence to the extent to which the wafer has been processed at the time of the operation stop and the substrate having undergone the substrate salvage processing is then retrieved into the cassette storage container and an apparatus internal state restoration step in which the states inside the individual chambers of the substrate processing apparatus are restored. |
| US07960186B2 |
Method of forming ferromagnetic material, transistor and method of manufacturing the same
The disclosure provides a method of forming a ferromagnetic material, including: forming a magnetic element layer on a semiconductor layer formed on an inhibition layer; and forming a ferromagnetic layer of a Heusler alloy layer on the inhibition layer by heat treatment to induce the semiconductor layer and the magnetic element layer to react with each other, and a transistor, and a method of manufacturing the same. The inhibition layer for inhibiting a reaction of the semiconductor layer and the magnetic element layer restricts a semiconductor to be supplied for a reaction of the semiconductor and the magnetic element. Therefore, it is possible to form a ferromagnetic material having a high composition ratio of a magnetic element. |
| US07960185B2 |
Protein-immobilized carrier
The present invention provides a protein-immobilized carrier which can realize highly efficient use of an immobilized antibody and prevent non-specific binding. A protein-immobilized carrier including a porous body having mesopores characterized in that the carrier has mesopores having an organic substance adsorbed therein other than an antibody, an antigen or a fragment thereof having a particle size smaller than the pore size of the mesopores and having an antibody, an antigen or a fragment thereof physically adsorbed and immobilized from the pore entrance to a depth of not more than the pore size in the depth direction of the mesopores. |
| US07960182B2 |
Affinity adsorbents for Factor VIII and von Willebrand's Factor
For the separation, removal, isolation, purification, characterization, identification or quantification of Factor VIII, von Willebrand's Factor or a protein that is a analogue of either, an affinity adsorbent is used that is a compound of formula (II) wherein one X is N and the other is N, C—Cl or C—CN; A is a support matrix, optionally linked to the triazine ring by a spacer; Y is O, S or NR2; Z is O, S or N—R3; R2 and R3 are each H, C1-6 alkyl, C1-6 hydroxyalkyl, benzyl or &bgr;-phenylethyl; B and W are each an optionally substituted hydrocarbon linkage containing from 1 to 10 carbon atoms; D is H, OH or a primary amino, secondary amino, tertiary amino, quaternary ammonium, imidazole, guanidino or amidino group; or B-D is —CHCOOH—(CH2)3-4—NH2; and R7 is a group bearing a positive charge at neutral pH. |
| US07960181B2 |
Chromoionophore and method of determining potassium ions
The invention relates to methods of determining potassium ions in a sample, wherein the ions are contacted with a compound having chromophoric moiety and an ionophoric moiety, where the ionophoric moiety interacts with the potassium ions present in the sample, resulting in the chromophoric moiety changing its radiation absorption properties in the ultraviolet and visible regions of the spectrum. For example, a change in an intensity of an absorption maximum is measured and the ion concentration is determined accordingly. |
| US07960178B2 |
Enhanced scheduling sample processing system and methods of biological slide processing
A sample processing system 101 that may be automated and methods are disclosed where sample(s) 198 are arranged on a carrier element 197 and a process operation control system 171 automatically processes the sample(s) perhaps robotically according to an desired aggregation of event dictated by an input 173. Alteration of an initial aggregated event topology may be accepted while the system is processing an initial aggregation and varied-parameter robotic control simulation functionalities 606 may be accomplished to determine an enhanced sequence for processing. Suggested operator actions may be displayed that might further enhance the scheduling of the altered aggregated event topology together with an automatic operator need prompt 608 that may inform an operator of a need for a particular action in order to accomplish the desired tasks. Reversibility to proposed changes may be made available so that an operator may avoid having to activate proposed changes if they cause a processing result that is not acceptable. |
| US07960177B2 |
Set of calibration standards
A standard calibration set having at least three calibration standards. Each standard is a molded article made of a thermoplastic polymer which contains the elements Cd, Cr, Pb, Hg and Br, with the Cr:Pb:Hg:Br:Cd ratio being different in each of the three calibration standards. Further disclosed is a method for manufacturing the calibration standards and their use in X-ray fluorescence analysis. |
| US07960174B2 |
Hybridoma producing antibodies to Lawsonia intracellularis
The present invention relates to the field of animal health and in particular to Lawsonia intracellularis. In particular, the invention relates to a method of diagnosing Lawsonia intracellularis infection and a diagnostic test kit using Lawsonia intracellularis-specific antibodies. The invention also relates to the use of the method or test kit for diagnosing Lawsonia intracellularis infections. |
| US07960170B2 |
Grating-based sensor combining label-free binding detection and fluorescence amplification and readout system for sensor
A grating-based sensor is disclosed that has a grating structure constructed and designed for both evanescent resonance (ER) fluorescence detection and label-free detection applications. Some embodiments are disclosed which are optimized for ER detection in an air mode, in which the sample is dry. Other embodiments are optimized for ER detection in liquid mode, in which the sample is suspended in liquid medium such as water. One and two-dimensional gratings are also disclosed, including gratings characterized by unit cells with central posts, central holes, and two-level, two-dimensional gratings. A readout system for such sensors is also disclosed. One embodiment includes a first light source optimized for collecting label-free detection data, a second light source optimized for collecting ER fluorescence amplification data, and at least one detector. In one embodiment, the detector is an imaging system and includes a CCD camera for collecting both ER and label-free data. In other embodiments, the at least one detector takes the form of a spectrometer for collection of label-free data and a photomultiplier for collecting ER data. In other embodiments, a single light source such as a tunable laser or broad band light source is used. |
| US07960166B2 |
Microfabricated compositions and processes for engineering tissues containing multiple cell types
The present invention relates to a three-dimensional system, and compositions obtained therefrom, wherein individual layers of the system comprise channels divided longitudinally into two compartments by a centrally positioned membrane, and wherein each compartment can comprise a different cell type. |
| US07960164B2 |
Selective growth medium for Listeria spp
The invention is a selective growth medium for investigating, isolating, counting and directly identifying pathogenic bacteria of the genus Listeria.The medium promotes the Listeria spp. while simultaneously inhibiting the growth of non-Listeria organisms. The medium does not produce a bacterial biomass contaminated with interfering fluorophores. The medium contains nitrofurantoin, esculin and lithium chloride and lacks acriflavin. |
| US07960162B2 |
Protein having prolyl oligopeptidase activity, nucleic acid encoding same and method for producing and using same
Proteins isolated from Coprinus clastophyllus having prolyl oligopeptidase activity, nucleic acids encoding the protein and methods for producing and using the protein, wherein SEQ ID NO:5, SEQ ID NO:6, SEQ ID NO:9 and SEQ ID NO:10 must be contained therein to at least 60% similarity. The proteins and nucleic acids have improved heat stability and perform more favorably in vivo having optimum activity conditions around 40 degrees centigrade and around pH 7, and can therefore be used in medicaments for the treatment of celiac disease caused by proline abundant gluten or other applications. |
| US07960158B1 |
Kinase inhibition models and their uses
The present invention provides a c-Met inhibition model. The invention further provides a method to derive inhibition models for other kinases. The kinase inhibition models of the present invention can be used to design or screen for inhibitors for kinases. |
| US07960155B1 |
Cytochrome p450 monooxygenases and their use for oxidizing organic compounds
The invention relates to novel cytochrome P450 monooxygenases comprising a modified substrate specificity, to nucleotide sequences which code therefor, to expression constructs and vectors containing these sequences, and to microorganisms transformed therewith. The invention also relates to methods for microbiologically oxidizing different organic substrates, such as methods for producing indigo and indirubin. |
| US07960149B2 |
Polypeptides having beta-glucosidase activity and polynucleotides encoding same
The present invention relates to isolated polypeptides having beta-glucosidase activity and isolated polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides. The invention also relates to nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides as well as methods for producing and using the polypeptides. |
| US07960147B2 |
Quantitative measurement of gene expression based on isolation of RNA from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue specimens
Methods are disclosed for rapid, reliable and simple isolation of RNA from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue samples. RNA purified in this manner can be used for quantitative measurement gene expression levels. The tissue sample can be a tumor or other pathological tissue. |
| US07960145B2 |
Compositions and methods for generating antibodies
The compositions and methods of the present invention comprise the efficient and effective presentation of antigens to the appropriate components of the immune system resulting in the production of species-specific antibodies in vitro. In general, these compositions comprise one or more antigenic components together with a colloidal metal, optionally combined with derivatized PEG (polyethylene glycol) or other agents. The invention also comprises novel cytokine cocktails for generating desired antibodies. |
| US07960142B2 |
Stabilized polypeptide compositions
The invention is based, at least in part, on the development of stabilized binding molecules that consist of or comprise a stabilized scFv and methods for making such stabilized molecules. |
| US07960141B2 |
Systems for the expression of orthogonal translation components in eubacterial host cells
The invention relates to compositions and methods for the in vivo production of polypeptides comprising one or more unnatural amino acids. Specifically, the invention provides plasmid systems for the efficient eubacterial expression of polypeptides comprising one or more unnatural amino acids at genetically-programmed positions. |
| US07960140B2 |
Avidin mutants
Two circularly permuted avidin monomers arc designed. The circularly permuted monomers are fused and the resulting fusion peptides (dcAvd) form a pseudo-tetrameric dual-chain avidin, which is biologically active in biotin binding and shows similar structural characteristics as wild-type avidin. The dcAvd makes the development of dual-affinity avidins possible by allowing the adjustment of the ligand binding properties in the half of the binding sites differently than in the rest of the sites. The present invention provides further a single-chain avidin (scAvd) where two dcAvd-molecules are fused together via a linker to form a single polypeptide with four binding sites for biotin or other ligand. |
| US07960138B2 |
Method for prognosing response to cancer therapy with 5, 10, 15, 20-tetrakis (carboxyphenyl) porphine
Presented is a method of prognosing a patient's response to a cancer therapy wherein prior to the therapy contacting a sample of cells from the patient's tissue or organ being treated for the cancer with a solution of TCPP to permit binding of the TCPP to components of the abnormal dysplastic or carcinomic cells, if any are present; detecting TCPP fluorescence in the sample, the presence of TCPP fluorescence being indicative that the sample contains dysplastic or carcinomic cells; at intervals during the therapy and subsequent to the therapy performing steps a-c on another sample of cells from the patient's tissue or organ being treated for the cancer; and determining if the percentage of abnormal pre-cancerous cells in the samples tested during and subsequent to the therapy are reduced as compared with the sample tested prior to the therapy, the reduction being prognostic of the patients response to the cancer therapy. |
| US07960137B2 |
Selection and use of lactic acid bacteria for reducing inflammation caused by Helicobacter
Strains of Lactobacillus which have been selected for their capability of reducing gastrointestinal inflammation, such as that due to Helicobacter pylori, and products derived from these strains, including agents for treatment or prophylaxis of inflammation associated with Helicobacter pylori for administration to humans and include conditioned media in which the selected strains have grown and protein-containing extracts of the conditioned media. |
| US07960136B2 |
Direct antimicrobial susceptibility assay
An antimicrobial susceptibility assay, including the steps of: providing an assay dish; providing a growth medium in said dish; providing an antimicrobial agent sample; providing an interpretive indication located a predetermined distance from a sample location adjacent the growth medium in the assay dish; providing an interfitting element which interfits with said dish, said interfitting element configured to enable at least one the steps of: a) more accurately positioning the antimicrobial sample at the sample location in contact with the growth medium; b) providing the interpretive indication at a predetermined distance from said sample position to enable said interpretative indication to be compared with a margin of a zone of inhibition of a colony grown on said medium to determine an assay result, wherein said result can include determination of at least one of: a) “susceptible;” “intermediate;” and, “resistant;” placing a microorganism on the growth medium; placing the antimicrobial agent sample at said sample location with accuracy using said interfitting element; incubating said microorganism for a period sufficient to allow a margin of a zone of inhibition to be discernable; and, comparing the location of the margin of the zone of inhibition to the interpretive indication, to obtain a result including a determination of at least one of a) “susceptible;” b) “intermediate;” and, c) “resistant” for said microorganism with respect to the antimicrobial agent. |
| US07960133B2 |
Methods of diagnosing leiomyoma by measuring catechol-O-methyltransferase
The present invention relates to an association between specific polymorphisms of the COMT polypeptide and the development, or risk of developing, preterm labor and uterine diseases and conditions. Disclosed are therapeutic, preventative and diagnostic methods and compositions relating to pre-term labor, uterine diseases and conditions, and ovarian conditions and diseases. In certain embodiments, such methods and compositions involve a COMT inhibitor. |
| US07960128B2 |
TRP8, a transient receptor potential channel expressed in taste receptor cells
The present invention relates to the discovery, identification and characterization of a transient receptor potential channel, referred to herein as TRP8, which is expressed in taste receptor cells and associated with the perception of bitter and sweet taste. The invention encompasses TRP8 nucleotides, host cell expression systems, TRP8 proteins, fusion proteins, polypeptides and peptides, antibodies to the TRP8 protein, transgenic animals that express a TRP8 transgene, and recombinant “knock-out” animals that do not express TRP8. The invention further relates to methods for identifying modulators of the TRP8-mediated taste response and the use of such modulators to either inhibit or promote the perception of bitterness or sweetness. The modulators of TRP8 activity may be used as flavor enhancers in foods, beverages and pharmaceuticals. |
| US07960126B2 |
Immunoregulation in cancer, chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases
The present invention primarily relates to a method for analyzing the amount of immunoregulatory integrin binding factors and/or patient endogenous antibodies which are directed against such factors, the factors having the capacity to modulate the immune functions in a subject suffering from cancer or inflammatory or autoimmune diseases, by utilizing binding reagents to determine these factors and/or the patient endogenous antibodies which are directed against such factors, whereby the prognosis and/or the therapeutic efficacy of any treatment of a subject suffering from cancer or inflammatory or autoimmune diseases can be determined and/or monitored. The invention further relates to the use of therapeutically active compounds for eliminating, inhibiting or enhancing such binding factors for the manufacture of pharmaceuticals to be used in the treatment of cancer, inflammatory conditions or autoimmune diseases. |
| US07960125B2 |
Identification of thymically derived CD4 T cells by protein tyrosine kinase 7 expression
The invention provides methods of identifying naïve T cells by expression of PTK7. |
| US07960124B2 |
Preparation of micro-porous crystals and conjugates thereof
A conjugate comprising a dye-labeled microporous crystal, a stop-cock moiety, and covalently bound thereto an affinity binding agent is disclosed. The dye-labeled microporous crystal is a zeolite crystal, such as a zeolite L crystal, having a large number of channels in its interior into which the dye is loaded. The stop-cock moiety can be functionalized with an amino group to which a carboxyester group can be attached. The affinity binding agent allows for the binding to a biological moiety. The conjugate of the moiety can be used in in-vivo and/or in-vitro imaging applications. |
| US07960123B2 |
Multimarker panel based on PIGF for diabetes types 1 and 2
The present invention relates to a method and means for diagnosing or risk stratification of co-morbidities, particularly cardiovascular complications in diabetes patients. The invention particularly relates to a method for diagnosing whether a diabetes patient is suffering from a cardiovascular complication or is at risk of suffering from a cardiovascular complication, said method comprising the steps of (a) measuring, preferably in vitro, the level(s) of at least one cardiac hormone or a variant thereof in a sample from the patient, and (b) diagnosing the cardiovascular complication or the risk of suffering from cardiovascular complication by comparing the measured level(s) to known level(s) associated with the cardiovascular complication or risk. The present invention also relates to combining the measurement of markers comprising cardiac hormones, natriuretic peptides, inflammation-associated markers, angiogenesis-markers, and markers for platelet activation. Preferred markers are brain natriuretic peptides (particularly NT-proBNP), PlGF, and sCD40L. |
| US07960118B2 |
EGFR mutations
The present invention relates to mutations in Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) and methods of detecting such mutations as well as prognostic methods method for identifying a tumors that are susceptible to anticancer therapy such as chemotherapy and/or kinase inhibitor treatment. The methods involve determining the presence of a mutated EGFR gene or mutated EGFR protein in a tumor sample whereby the presence of a mutated EGFR gene or protein indicates the tumor is susceptible to treatment. |
| US07960113B2 |
DNA analysis method and DNA analyzer
Disclosed is a DNA analysis method and a DNA analyzer whose signal intensity is not lowered even when a material at a higher density is measured. There is supplied dATP, dTTP, dGTP, or dCTP from a dATP solution vessel, a dTTP solution vessel, a dGTP solution vessel, or a dCTP solution vessel, and this causes an extension reaction of a double-stranded DNA immobilized to a bead, to yield pyrophosphoric acid. The pyrophosphoric acid is converted into a redox compound by the actions of a reagent and an enzyme contained in a reaction buffer in a reaction buffer vessel. The redox compound causes a variation in surface potential of a measuring electrode bearing an electrochemically active material immobilized thereto through an insulating molecule, and this variation causes a variation in drain current of a field-effect transistor electrically connected to the measuring electrode. Thus, the extension reaction is detected. |
| US07960110B2 |
Detection of chromosomal region copy number changes to diagnose melanoma
This invention provides methods of detecting melanoma. The methods comprises detecting a gain or loss of certain chromosomal regions that undergo copy number changes in melanoma. |
| US07960109B2 |
mRNA ratios in urinary sediments and/or urine as a prognostic and/or theranostic marker for prostate cancer
Described herein are methods and kits for prognosis of prostate cancer in a subject. The methods comprises: (a) determining the ratio of PCA3 and PSA expression in a urine sample and (b) correlating the value of the PCA3/PSA ratio with the aggressiveness and mortality risk of prostate cancer in the subject. Kits for prognosing prostate cancer are also described. More particularly, the present invention features a method for prognosing prostate cancer in a biological sample of a patient comprising: assessing the amount of a prostate cancer specific PCA3 mRNA and the amount of PSA in the biological sample; determining a ratio value of this amount of prostate cancer specific PCA3 mRNA over the amount of PSA; comparing the ratio value to at least one predetermined cut-off value, wherein a ratio value above the predetermined cut-off value is indicative of a higher risk of mortality of prostate cancer as compared to a ratio value below the predetermined cut-off value. |
| US07960107B2 |
Method of determining the susceptibility of a subject to developing insulin-dependent diabetes
The present application identifies the involvement of the HIFβ-homologous Arntl2 gene in the control of type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes. Accordingly, the present invention provides a method of determining the susceptibility of a subject to developing insulin-dependent diabetes based on the expressing level of the Arntl2 gene. The present invention also provides a method for identifying compounds effective for treating or preventing insulin-dependent diabetes in a subject in need thereof and a method of treating or preventing insulin-dependent diabetes by administering an effective amount of compound identified by the identification method. The present invention also provides a method of enhancing protection against insulitis progression or autoimmune diabetes development in a subject in need thereof comprising, enhancing expression of the Arntl2 gene or modulating the expression of target genes thereof. |
| US07960106B2 |
Diagnostic method and products useful therein
A method for simultaneous detection and identification of Bacillus anthracis, Yersinia pestis and Francisella tularensis, in a single real time PCR assay using species-specific primers and Taqman MGB probes. Also, a kit for the diagnosis of bacterial bioterrorism agents. In addition, an infection-free control plasmid to verify the result of the real time PCR analysis method. |
| US07960104B2 |
Self-assembled single molecule arrays and uses thereof
The present invention provides methods of making and using self-assembled arrays of single polynucleotide molecules for carrying out a variety of large-scale genetic measurements, such as gene expression analysis, gene copy number assessment, and the like. Random arrays used in the invention are “self-assembled” in the sense that they are formed by deposition of polynucleotide molecules onto a surface where they become fixed at random locations. The polynucleotide molecules fixed on the surface are then identified by direct sequence determination of component nucleic acids, such as incorporated probe sequences, or by other decoding schemes. Such identification converts a random array of determinable polynucleotides, and their respective probes into an addressable array of probe sequences. |
| US07960103B2 |
Method for obtaining new life forms
The present invention relates to a method for generating a novel form of life comprising the steps consisting of: a) irreversible alteration of the genome of a microbial clone; b) cultivation of a vast population of microbial cells originating from the altered clone obtained in step a) during numerous generations under conditions allowing selection for a higher and stable proliferation rate; c) isolation of descendant clones within the cultivated population of step b) still bearing the alteration of step a). |
| US07960099B2 |
White blood cell differentiation reagent containing an asymmetric cyanine fluorescent dye and method of use thereof
The present disclosure provides a white blood cell differentiation reagent comprising a fluorescent dye compound of Formula I, wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, Y− and n are as defined in the specification. The present disclosure also provides a white blood cell detection kit comprising the white blood cell differentiation reagent, and a method of differentiating white blood cells using the white blood cell differentiation reagent. |
| US07960097B2 |
Methods of minimizing etch undercut and providing clean metal liftoff
A method of minimizing etch undercut and providing clean metal liftoff in subsequent metal deposition is provided. In one embodiment a bilayer resist mask is employed and used for etching of underlying substrate material and subsequent metal liftoff. In one embodiment, the top layer resist such as positive photoresist which is sensitive to selected range of energy, such as near UV or violet light, is first patterned by standard photolithography techniques and resist development in a first developer to expose portion of a bottom resist layer which is sensitive to a different selected range of energy, such as deep UV light. The exposed portion of the bottom layer resist is then removed by anisotropic etching such as oxygen reactive ion etching using the top layer resist as the etch mask to expose portion of the underlying substrate. This minimizes the undercut in the bottom resist around the top photoresist opening. The resultant patterned bilayer resist stack is then used as the etch mask for the subsequent etching of the exposed portion of the underlying substrate material. Because there is no undercut in the bottom resist layer, the etch undercut in the substrate material is also minimized relative to the edges of the top photoresist opening. |
| US07960093B2 |
Storage medium, reproducing method, and recording method
According to one embodiment, a write-once type information storage medium using a recording material which has a low to high characteristic that a light reflectivity in a recording mark increases with respect to a non-recording area and which has a recording characteristic in accordance with a principle of recording without substrate deformation, wherein the recording material includes at least an organic metal complex, and wherein the organic metal complex includes a center metal. |
| US07960086B2 |
Developing agent and method for manufacturing the same
A coarse particle containing a polyester based resin and a coloring agent is added in an aqueous medium containing a surfactant, a basic substance and an inorganic water-soluble electrolyte, and dispersion and coagulation are carried out to form a toner particle. |
| US07960085B2 |
Method for producing positively chargeable toner
A method for producing a positively chargeable toner is described. The method for producing a positively chargeable toner may include the steps of: mixing and emulsifying a charge-controlling resin having a positive polar group, an organic solvent and an aqueous medium to form an emulsion, and then removing the organic solvent from the emulsion, to thereby form a suspension of the charge-controlling resin having a positive polar group in the range of 5.0×10−5 to 6.0×10−4 mol/g; mixing the suspension of the charge-controlling agent with a suspension of toner base particles containing a binder resin and a colorant, to thereby form a mixture; and heating the mixture containing the suspension of the toner base particles and the suspension of the charge-controlling resin, to thereby fix the charge-controlling resin on the surfaces of the toner base particles. |
| US07960081B2 |
Electrophotographic photoreceptor having N-alkoxymethylated nylon intermediate layer, and image forming apparatus having the electrophotographic photoreceptor
An electrophotographic photoreceptor, including an electroconductive substrate; an intermediate layer, located overlying the electroconductive substrate; and a photosensitive layer, located overlying the intermediate layer, wherein the intermediate layer includes a N-alkoxymethylated nylon including a component having a molecular weight not greater than 5,000 in an amount of from 3 to 10% by weight. |
| US07960080B2 |
Oxadiazole containing photoconductors
A photoconductor that includes, for example, a supporting substrate, a photogenerating layer, and a charge transport layer, and wherein at least one of the charge transport layer and the photogenerating layer contains an oxadiazole. |
| US07960079B2 |
Phenazine containing photoconductors
A photoconductor that includes, for example, a supporting substrate, a photogenerating layer, and at least one charge transport layer comprised of at least one charge transport component, and wherein at least one of the photogenerating layer and charge transport layer contains a phenazine. |
| US07960077B2 |
Reflective-type mask blank for EUV lithography
A reflective mask blank for EUV lithography including a substrate having a front surface and a rear surface, a reflective layer formed over the front surface of the substrate, an absorbing layer formed over the reflective layer, and a chucking layer formed on the rear surface of the substrate and positioned to chuck the substrate to an electrostatic chuck. The substrate has a non-conducting portion which eliminates electrical conduction between the reflective layer and the chucking layer and electrical conduction between the absorbing layer and the chucking layer, and the non-conducting portion is formed by forming a portion of the substrate covered with one or more covering members and preventing formation of the reflective layer and the absorbing layer. |
| US07960076B2 |
Reflective-type mask
A reflective-type mask having a main surface including a pattern region in the main surface, the pattern region including a multilayer reflective film which reflects the exposure light and a first absorber pattern on the multilayer reflective film, the first absorber pattern including a pattern which absorbs the exposure light and corresponds to a pattern to be formed on a wafer, a light shielding region in the main surface for preventing a region on the wafer excluding a predetermined region from being irradiated with the exposure light when the main surface is irradiated with the exposure light for transferring the first absorber pattern to the predetermined region, the light shielding region including a second absorber pattern having a lower reflectivity to the exposure light than the first absorber pattern and being provided in a position differing from a position in which the first absorber pattern is provided. |
| US07960075B2 |
Photomask unit, exposing method and method for manufacturing semiconductor device
A photomask unit includes a mask substrate having patterns arranged at a pitch P; and a pellicle which protects the mask substrate, wherein the pellicle is configured so that transmittance of incident light of an incident angle θ (0°<θ<90°) is higher than transmittance of incident light of an incident angle 0°. |
| US07960072B2 |
MEA with catalyst for oxidation of carbon monoxide
A fuel cell comprising an ionically conductive membrane with an electrode. The electrode is disposed adjacent the ionically conductive membrane and an electrically conductive member is disposed adjacent the electrode. The fuel cell further comprises a group of catalyzed particles that is capable of catalyzing a gas phase oxidation reaction and an electrochemical oxidation reaction. The catalyzed particles are disposed on at least one of the electrode and electrically conductive member. |
| US07960071B2 |
Separator for fuel cell using a metal plate coated with titanium nitride, method for manufacturing the same, and polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell comprising the separator
Disclosed is a separator for a fuel cell made of a metal plate comprising both a cooling water flow field and a gas flow field formed on each surface thereof, wherein the separator consists of the joined metal plates for the cooling water flow fields to face each other, the surfaces of the joined metal plates are coated with TiN, a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell comprising the separator and a method for manufacturing the separator. |
| US07960068B2 |
Fuel cell module and structure for gas supply to fuel cell
A conductive and tabular separator is inserted into the gap between the fuel electrode layer of an i-th power generating cell and the oxidizer electrode layer of an (i+l)-th power generating cell adjacent to the fuel electrode layer. A fuel supply passage is so formed on one face of each of these separators that a fuel gas flows radially from almost the center of the fuel electrode layer to its edge. An oxidizer supply passage is so formed on the other face that an oxidizer gas outgoes almost uniformly in a shower toward the oxidizer polar layer. Thus, all of the surfaces of the power generating cells contribute to power generation to increase the frequency of collision between the fuel gas and the fuel electrode layer and that between the oxidizer gas and the oxidizer electrode layer, and to improve the generation efficiency. |
| US07960065B2 |
Separator for fuel cell, method for producing the same, and fuel cell
The present invention provides a separator for a fuel cell comprising a resin and a conductive material as constituting components, and sulfonic acid groups imparted to at least one portion at the surface of gas channels by a treatment using a sulfuric acid-containing gas, wherein the resin and the sulfonic acid groups, which are on the surface of the gas channels, are bonded, and a ratio of sulfur atoms in the sulfonic acid groups at the surface of the gas channels as determined by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy is in a range from 0.1 to 4.0 at %, and a method for producing the separator. The separator for a fuel cell of the present invention is excellent in the wettability to water, since sulfonic acid groups are imparted to the resin at the surface of gas channels in the sulfuric acid-containing gas. |
| US07960064B2 |
Rapid light-off catalytic combustor for fuel cell vehicle
A catalytic combustion unit for a fuel cell system is provided. The catalytic combustion unit includes a reactor having a porous medium with a catalyst deposited thereon. The reactor is disposed adjacent a heat exchanger and adapted to receive an air stream and a hydrogen stream. The reactor is further adapted to promote an exothermic reaction and modulate a temperature of a fuel cell stack. A fuel cell system and method employing the catalytic combustion unit are also provided. |
| US07960062B2 |
Anode accumulation tank with high nitrogen concentration bleed for a fuel cell stack fuel delivery system
A fuel cell system is described having a fuel cell stack including a PEM fuel cell having an anode and a cathode, the fuel cell stack further including an anode outlet and an anode inlet, a hydrogen storage device in communication with the anode inlet and configured to supply a hydrogen gas to the fuel cell stack, and an accumulation reservoir in communication with the anode outlet of the fuel cell stack. The accumulation reservoir is configured to accumulate a quantity of water and an exhaust stream including the hydrogen gas during a purge event and resupply the exhaust stream to the fuel cell stack after the purge event is complete. The accumulation reservoir can be a second fuel cell stack. A method of operating the fuel cell system is also provided. |
| US07960051B2 |
Holding member and battery pack
A holding member attached to outer peripheries of a plurality of adjacent cylindrical cell modules which are arranged parallel along axes thereof. Each cell module is formed by a plurality of unit cells serially connected, and the holding member is positioned in the middle of the cell modules along the axes thereof so that a gap is secured between the cell modules. The holding member has a plurality of circular holding portions for respectively holding the cell modules, wherein the holding portions are coupled with each other, and the coupled holding portions have a plurality of divided portions at which the coupled holding portions are divided into two holding bodies, each being fit over the cell modules; and a coupling device for coupling the divided portions positioned between adjacent two of the holding portions. |
| US07960048B2 |
Electrode assembly for lithium ion secondary battery and lithium ion secondary battery using the same
An electrode assembly for a lithium ion secondary battery and a lithium ion secondary battery using the same are provided. In a sealing tape attached to the outer circumference of the electrode assembly in order to prevent the wound electrode assembly from being unwound, the sealing tape is formed of the material having an affinity for the electrolyte to absorb the electrolyte and to swell or the external or internal surface of the conventional sealing tape is coated with such a material so that, when the sealing tape is impregnated with the electrolyte, the sealing tape swells to attach the electrode assembly and the can to each other and to thus prevent the welding parts of the electrode tabs from being disconnected due to the rotation or floating of the electrode assembly. |
| US07960045B2 |
Magnetic recording medium and method of manufacturing the same
An aspect of the present invention relates to a magnetic recording medium comprising a coating layer on a nonmagnetic support, wherein the coating layer comprises a nonmagnetic layer comprising a nonmagnetic powder and a binder and a magnetic layer comprising a ferromagnetic powder and a binder in this order, the nonmagnetic support comprises a main component in the form of a resin obtained by mixing and/or copolymerizing a polyester and a polymer having compatibility with the polyester, has a glass transition temperature of equal to or higher than 80° C. but less than 125° C., and has a heat absorption peak, based on enthalpy relaxation, ranging from 0.5 to 2.0 J/g. Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a magnetic recording medium. |
| US07960042B2 |
Cement-based paving blocks for photocatalytic paving for the abatement of urban pollutants
Paving blocks for photocatalytic paving comprising at least a base layer in cementitious material and a surface layer based on a cementitious composition comprising:at least a hydraulic binder, a photocatalyst capable of oxidizing organic and inorganic polluting substances present in the environment in the presence of environmental light, air and humidity, at least an aggregate, water and, optionally, a water reducing additive. |
| US07960041B2 |
Fused ring aromatic compound and organic light-emitting device using same
There are provided a novel fused ring aromatic compound and an organic light-emitting device which has an optical output with extremely high efficiency and luminance, and also has extremely high durability. The organic light-emitting device includes an anode, a cathode, and a layer including an organic compound interposed between the anode and the cathode, wherein the layer comprises a fused ring aromatic compound represented by the general formula (I): wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9, R10, R11, R12, R13, R14, R15, and R16 each represent, independently of one another, a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group, a substituted or unsubstituted aralkyl group, a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group, a substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclic group, a substituted amino group, or a halogen atom. |
| US07960040B2 |
Organic electroluminescence device
An organic electroluminescence device comprising at least an organic layer between a pair of electrodes, wherein the organic electroluminescence device further includes at least an interlocked compound. An organic electroluminescence device exhibiting a high light emission efficiency and excellent driving durability is provided. |
| US07960039B2 |
Amino compound for organic light-emitting device and organic light-emitting device including the same
An amino compound for an organic light-emitting device of general formula [1]: wherein X1 is bonded to the pair of fluorenyl groups at meta-positions to each other and is substituted or unsubstituted aromatic ring, fused polycyclic ring, or heterocyclic ring; Y1 and Y2 are each substituted or unsubstituted alkyl, aryl, or heterocyclic and are the same or different; Z1 to Z4 are each hydrogen, halogen, or substituted or unsubstituted alkyl, aralkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkoxy, aryl, or heterocyclic and are the same or different; R1 to R4 are each hydrogen, halogen, or substituted or unsubstituted alkyl, aryl, or heterocyclic and are the same or different; a and d are each 1 to 4; and b and c are each 1 to 3. |
| US07960038B2 |
Light emitting device and electronic appliance using the same
The light emitting element includes a first electrode and a second electrode, between which a light emitting layer, a hole transporting layer provide in contact with the light emitting layer, an electron transporting layer provided in contact with the light emitting layer, and a mixed layer provided between the electron transporting layer and the second electrode. The mixed layer includes an electron transporting substance and a substance showing an electron donating property with respect to the electron transporting substance. The light emitting layer includes an organometallic complex represented in General Formula (1) and a host. R1 and R2 each represent an electron-withdrawing substituent group. R3 and R4 each represent any of hydrogen or an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms. L represents any of a monoanionic ligand having a beta-diketone structure, a monoanionic bidentate chelating ligand having a carboxyl group, or a monoanionic bidentate chelating ligand having a phenolic hydroxyl group. |
| US07960035B2 |
High-strength hot-rolled steel sheet excellent in chemical treatability
There is provided a high-strength hot rolled steel sheet excellent in phosphatability, wherein a maximum depth (Ry) of pits and bumps, existing on a surface thereof, is not less than 10 μm, and an average interval (Sm) of the pits and the bumps is not more than 30 μm, meeting either a requirement for a load length ratio (tp40) of the pits and the bumps on the surface at not more than 20%, or a requirement for a difference between a load length ratio (tp60) and the load length ratio (tp40), at not less than 60%, or both thereof. The high-strength hot rolled steel sheet is capable of exhibiting stable and excellent phosphatability even if Mo highly effective for reinforcement in strength is added thereto in expectation of a higher strength. |
| US07960027B2 |
Transparent conductors and methods for fabricating transparent conductors
Transparent conductors and methods for fabricating transparent conductors are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a transparent conductor comprises a substrate having a surface and a transparent conductive coating disposed on the surface of the substrate. The transparent conductive coating has a plurality of conductive components of at least one type and an aliphatic isocyanate-based polyurethane component. |
| US07960026B2 |
Organic-inorganic composite particle and process for preparation thereof
An organic-inorganic composite particle containing an inorganic particle having a plurality of polymer particles attached to the inorganic particle and a polymer layer encapsulating the attached polymer particles. A process is provided for the organic-inorganic composite particle. The organic-inorganic composite particle is useful in the preparation of dried coatings that have improved hiding, whiteness, or gloss. |
| US07960025B2 |
Magnetic nanoparticles comprising a core formed from noble metals
The invention relates to nanoparticles of noble metals, having a controlled microstructure which leads to the appearance of ferromagnetic behaviour in said nanoparticles, thereby enabling the use of very small magnets (<5 nm) in a range in which standard ferromagnetic metals behave as superparamagnetic entitles (disappearance of hysteresis cycle). The inventive nanoparticles can be used, for example, to reduce the dimensions in magnetic recordings, as well as in biomedicine as tools for biomolecule recognition, nuclear magnetic resonance imaging, drug-release control or hypothermia treatments. |
| US07960024B2 |
Multi-layered fiber
A multi-layered fiber including a core, a first layer, and a second layer. The core has an exterior surface portion containing polypropylene. The first layer is disposed on at least a portion of the core and contains a first polymer. The first polymer contains a polymer having at least 70% α-olefin units and is characterized by a melting temperature lower than the melting temperature of the exterior surface portion of the core. The second layer is disposed on at least a portion of the first layer and contains a second polymer. The second polymer contains a co-polymer having at least 50% α-olefin units and is characterized by a number-average molecular weight of about 7,000 g/mol to 50,000 g/mol, a viscosity of between about 2,500 and 150,000 cP measured at 170° C., and a melting temperature lower than the melting temperature of the exterior surface portion of the core. The viscosity of the second polymer is not greater than about 10 percent of the viscosity of the first polymer measured at 170° C. Methods of forming the multi-layered fiber are also disclosed. |
| US07960020B2 |
Embossed fibrous structures
Fibrous structures that exhibit a Geometric Mean Elongation of greater than 14.95% as measured according to the Elongation Test Method are provided. |
| US07960017B2 |
Mixed ion ionomeric sheets and high strength laminates produced therefrom
The invention describes a polymeric sheet that has at least one layer that comprises an ionomer or ionomer blend that incorporates a partially neutralized alpha, beta-ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acid component and is useful in glass laminate applications. The ionomer or ionomer blend contains one or more monovalent metal ions in an amount ranging from about 1 to about 60%, preferably about 10 to about 55%, and more preferably about 15 to about 50%, and one or more polyvalent metal ions in an amount ranging from about 40 to about 99%, preferably about 45 to about 90%, and more preferably about 50 to about 85%. This ratio range of monovalent and polyvalent metal neutralization ions provides synergistically greater adhesion to glass than found for either the monovalent or the polyvalent metal neutralization ions alone. |
| US07960016B2 |
Wear resistant hard coating for a workpiece and method for producing the same
The present invention provides an optimized hard coating and a workpiece, especially a cutting tool coated with a hard coating to increase tooling performance with difficult to machine materials such as high speed steels, titanium alloys, nickel alloys, austenitic steels and especially hard materials like hardened tool steel having a hardness of higher 50, preferably of higher 55 HRC. This is achieved by a workpiece coated with a wear resistant multilayered comprising at least a first supporting layer and a second nanocrystalline layer, whereas the first layer comprises a coating material of the following composition (TiaAl1-a)N1-x-yCxOy with 0.4 |
| US07960011B2 |
Markings and method of producing the same
The invention relates to a method for producing a visually identifiable diffractive pattern on a substrate by subjecting the substrate to pressure by bringing it into contact with a surface of an embossing plate. An imprinted paper or paperboard sheet, which is varnished at the contacting area of the embossing plate and the substrate is used as a substrate for the embossing. The invention relates also to a product manufactured using the described method. The method is applicable, for example, for common packaging materials, which contain a paperboard, imprinting and a varnish layer for producing a visually attractive and unique marking. |
| US07960005B2 |
Broadcast distribution of content for storage on hardware protected optical storage media
Methods and systems for content distribution are provided that include a broadcast transmitter for transmitting a signal that comprises content, a receiver for receiving the signal, and an optical disc recorder coupled to the receiver for recording the content to an optical disc, which may be an optically altered optical disc. |
| US07960004B2 |
Glue-laminated bamboo furniture
Glue-laminated bamboo furniture articles include a main panel (1) and plural panel supports (2). The panel (1) includes a main framework (11), a main plate (12) disposed on the main framework (11) and outer framework (13) covering the main framework (11). The main framework (11) is formed by joining corresponding ends of a plurality of frame borders (111). The main plate (12) corresponds in shape to a plane enclosed by the main framework (11) and includes slopes on interfacial edges (121) thereof. The outer framework (13) is formed by joining corresponding ends of sealing plates (131). Sloped upper ends (1311) of the sealing plates match the slopes on the interfacial edges (121) of the main plate (12). The resulting gluelam bamboo furniture has a trim aesthetic appearance, exhibits the beautiful natural texture of bamboo, effectively prevents the furniture from warping, has great durability, conserves materials and effectively reduces production costs. |
| US07960002B2 |
Coupling structure, coupling process and coupling apparatus of laminate film
A coupled portion of mutual laminate films sufficiently contributes to the formation of a packaging bag in that the coupled portion itself has excellent air tightness and liquid tightness. The tensile strength required for the laminate film is given to the coupled portion, whereby a temporary stop of a packaging apparatus is useless when a connecting portion of the laminate film is passed through the apparatus, thereby enhancing the operation efficiency and improving the yield of the material. Oriented base film layers are joined in a mitre form at the coupled portion between a rear end portion and a front end portion of laminate films comprising oriented base film layers and sealant layers. |
| US07960001B2 |
Container seal with integral promotional token and method
A container seal having a releasable, integral promotional token attached thereto comprises a sealing sheet bound to a promotional token by a releasable adhesive. The sealant sheet has a tacking surface and a sealing surface. The promotional token has a tacking surface and an obverse surface. At least one surface of the promotional token has promotional indicia visible thereon. The tacking surface of the promotional token is bound to the tacking surface of the sealant sheet by a releasable adhesive, so that the promotional token is peelably removable from the sealant sheet when the sealant sheet is bound to the finish of a container. The promotional token consists of a material selected from the group consisting of a layer of paper or synthetic fabric, a layer of paper or synthetic fabric laminated to a polymer film, and a layer of paper or synthetic fabric laminated to two polymer films, and optionally, the tacking surface of the promotional token or the tacking surface of the sealant sheet comprises a release coating. |
| US07960000B2 |
Method and apparatus for removing paint and sealant
A cost-effective and minimally destructive apparatus and method for removing paint and other coatings from a surface. The apparatus comprises a tape having a masking material adapted to adhere to the surface and a stripper, wherein applying the masking material and the stripper can be performed in a single step. |
| US07959993B2 |
Small molecular organic electroluminescent display device and method of fabricating the same
An organic electroluminescent display (OELD) device and a method of fabricating the same are disclosed. The OELD device includes a substrate, a first electrode, an organic layer containing at least one light emitting layer, and a second electrode. The light emitting layer is comprised of at least one phosphorescent dopant and at least two host materials. |
| US07959992B2 |
Porous inkjet recording material comprising a silane coupling agent
An ink receiving substrate includes a substrate layer and organic modified silica dispensed on at least one surface of the support layer, wherein the organic modified silica includes inorganic particulates and silane coupling agents having guanidine or biguanidine functional groups. |
| US07959985B2 |
Method of integrating PEALD Ta-containing films into Cu metallization
A method for forming a modified TaC or TaCN film that may be utilized as a barrier film for Cu metallization. The method includes disposing a substrate in a process chamber of a plasma enhanced atomic layer deposition (PEALD) system configured to perform a PEALD process, depositing a TaC or TaCN film on the substrate using the PEALD process, and modifying the deposited TaC or TaCN film by exposing the deposited TaC or TaCN film to plasma excited hydrogen or atomic hydrogen or a combination thereof in order to remove carbon from at least the plasma exposed portion of the deposited TaCN film. The method further includes forming a metal film on the modified TaCN film, where the modified TaCN film provides stronger adhesion to the metal film than the deposited TaCN film. According to one embodiment, a TaCN film is deposited from alternating exposures of TAIMATA and plasma excited hydrogen. |
| US07959984B2 |
Methods and arrangement for the reduction of byproduct deposition in a plasma processing system
In a plasma processing system, a method of reducing byproduct deposits on a set of plasma chamber surfaces of a plasma processing chamber is disclosed. The method includes providing a deposition barrier in the plasma processing chamber, the deposition barrier is configured to be disposed in a plasma generating region of the plasma processing chamber, thereby permitting at least some process byproducts produced when a plasma is struck within the plasma processing chamber to adhere to the deposition barrier and reducing the byproduct deposits on the set of plasma processing chamber surfaces. |
| US07959978B2 |
Drywall mud hopper for inside and outside corners
A drywall hopper assembly that contains a double blade that can apply drywall mud to both interior and exterior drywall corners with no blade change. A zigzag blade can contain two grooves, one for interior corners and one for exterior corners. With this blade arrangement, an operator can quickly move from one type of corner to another without using multiple tools, multiple blades or hand application methods to apply mud. The present invention can contain a pliable release port to present mud equally to an interior or an exterior corner. There can be such a port on both the top and bottom of the blade so that mud is smoothly applied as trim moves through the hopper or the hopper is moved along the trim. |
| US07959976B2 |
Coated film and method of making the same
A method of making a coated film comprises coating a first side of a base film with a coating material to form the coated film; wherein the base film was formed in a calendaring process, and wherein, during the calendaring process, the first side physically contacted less surface area of a first roll than a second side physically contacted of a second roll at a given time; and wherein the coated film has an uncoated second side. |
| US07959974B2 |
Nanotube assembly
Methods and articles providing for precise aligning, positioning, shaping, and linking of nanotubes and carbon nanotubes. An article comprising: a solid surface comprising at least two different surface regions including: a first surface region which comprises an outer boundary and which is adapted for carbon nanotube adsorption, and a second surface region which is adapted for preventing carbon nanotube adsorption, the second region forming an interface with the outer boundary of the first region, at least one carbon nanotube which is at least partially selectively adsorbed at the interface. The shape and size of the patterns on the surface and the length of the carbon nanotube can be controlled to provide for selective interfacial adsorption. |
| US07959969B2 |
Fabrication of anchored carbon nanotube array devices for integrated light collection and energy conversion
A method of fabricating optical energy collection and conversion devices using carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and a method of anchoring CNT's into thin polymeric layers is disclosed. The basic method comprises an initial act of surrounding a plurality of substantially aligned nanostructures within at least one fluid layer of substantially uniform thickness such that a first end of the plurality of nanostructures protrudes from the fluid layer. Next, the fluid layer is altered to form an anchoring layer, thereby fastening the nanostructures within the primary anchoring layer with the first ends of the nanostructures protruding from a first surface of the primary anchoring layer. Finally, a portion of the anchoring layer is selectively removed such that a second end of the nanostructures is exposed and protrudes from the anchoring layer. The resulting product is an optically absorbent composite material having aligned nanostructures protruding from both sides of an anchoring layer. |
| US07959964B1 |
Standard of identity cream cheese that is flowable at refrigerated temperatures and method of making same
A standard of identity cream cheese that is flowable at refrigerated temperatures (32° F.-45° F.). The cream cheese is made in accordance with federal standard of identity requirements and preferably includes moisture in an amount that is less than 55% by weight and at least about 33% fat by weight. The cream cheese further includes less than 3% salt by weight, about 4% to about 10% protein by weight, and about 1% to about 7% lactose by weight. The cream cheese is made by providing freshly made or reheated standard of identity cream cheese at a temperature of at least about 150° F. The cream cheese is then cooled to a temperature below 100° F., or preferably to a refrigerated temperature, and at least intermittently sheared with a mixing device during cooling. |
| US07959963B2 |
Method for producing grape extract with high ORAC value, and grape extract so produced
Grape material is processed to yield a grape extract high in concentrated polyphenols, with ORAC values exceeding at least about 10,000 μmol TE/g. The grape material is dried, and soaked in ethanol to commence desired concentrate extraction. Following ethanol removal, inactive residue is at least partially separated from the desired concentrate solution, which passes through a macroporous absorption resin that absorbs desired active ingredients. Ethanol resin washing yields an intermediate extraction solution. After ethanol removal, the intermediate extract solution with the mixed active ingredients is refined. During refinement, high concentration of polyphenols and monomeric phenols are separated, and collected. These collected materials yield a desired high ORAC extract solution. Further drying yields the desired material, which is tested and packaged. This material exhibits good water solubility, mild flavor, and can be added to foodstuffs and nutritional supplements as a beneficial antioxidant. |
| US07959961B2 |
Food products containing rice bran oil
Disclosed are cooked dried farinaceous food products such as cooked cereal doughs, ready-to-eat cereals and grain based snacks fabricated from such cooked cereal doughs containing or fortified with rice bran oil supplied at least in part by non-hydrogenated rice bran oil especially high oryzanol rice bran oil. The cereals contain about 0.1 to 10% added rice bran oil. The rice bran oil ingredient can be incorporated into the dough and/or topically applied. The rice bran oil provides the processing advantages of oil addition during processing with low or now transfatty acids but with extended shelf stability. The finished fortified cereal products are not only organoleptically desirable but almost indistinguishable from their counterparts containing hydrogenated fats. |
| US07959956B2 |
Method for treating diabetic complications
The present invention relates to a method for treating diabetic complications, which comprises administering an extract obtained by: crashing and drying any one selected from Euphorbiae radix, gingered Magnolia bark, parched Puerariae radix and Glycyrrhizae radix; extracting the dried herbal material with alcohol or aqueous alcohol solution; filtering the extract; and concentrating the filtrate under reduced pressure. |
| US07959955B1 |
Antipyrotic formulation for the treatment of epidermal burns
A unique, synergistic formulation for the treatment of first-degree skin burns is provided for topical use and alleviates the full spectrum of symptoms and concerns associated with epidermal burns, including pain, blistering, redness, swelling, compromised skin integrity, risk of infection and scarring. The formulation contains natural homeopathic extracts combined with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier suitable for topical administration. The formulation includes the following homeopathic extracts: Cantharis vesicatoria, Echinacea anqustifolia, Calendula officinalis and Hypericum perforatum. |
| US07959949B2 |
Functionalized nanoceria composition for ophthalmic treatment
The invention provides a composition comprising a plurality of nanoceria particles, a sufficient amount of at least one inhibitor of human carbonic anhydrase II associated with said plurality of nanoceria particles, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier containing said plurality of nanoceria particles with associated inhibitor. One preferred inhibitor of human carbonic anhydrase II comprises 4-carboxybenzene sulfonamide. The disclosed composition is useful in treatment of glaucoma. |
| US07959947B2 |
Film coating
A film coating composition suitable for use in coating pharmaceutical formulations comprising a) an acrylic polymer dispersion, e.g. an ethylacrylate/methylmethacrylate copolymer such as Eudragit NE30D, b) a surfactant, c) sodium stearyl fumarate, and d) a water-containing liquid useful for the achievement of controlled release from pharmaceutical formulations such as tablets, pellets, etc. |
| US07959944B2 |
S-adenosyl-L-methionine for regulating behavioral disorders in pets
The present invention relates to the use of S-adenosyl-L-methionine or its salts for preparing a composition for the regulation of behavioral problems in pets. |
| US07959941B2 |
Bone graft comprising a demineralized bone matrix and a stabilizing agent
An improved demineralized bone matrix (DBM) or other matrix composition is provided that has been mixed with a stabilizing agent that acts as (1) a diffusion barrier, (2) a enzyme inhibitor, (3) a competitive substrate, or (4) a masking moiety. A diffusion barrier acts as a barrier so as to protect the osteoinductive factors found in DBM from being degraded by proteolytic and glycolytic enzymes at the implantation site. Stabilizing agents may be any biodegradable material such as starches, modified starches, cellulose, dextran, polymers, proteins, and collagen. As the stabilizing agents degrades or dissolves in vivo, the osteoinductive factors such as TGF-.beta., BMP, and IGF are activated or exposed, and the activated factors work to recruit cells from the preivascular space to the site of injury and to cause differentiation into bone-forming cells. The invention also provides methods of preparing, testing, and using the inventive improved osteodinductive matrix compositions. |
| US07959937B2 |
Wild animal control apparatus and method
The present invention pertains to an apparatus and method for controlling wild animals comprised of an attractant that entices the target wild animal, such as a coyote, to consume the apparatus. Upon consumption, a trigger, which may be covered by a portion of the attractant reacts with fluids in the digestive system of the wild animal, that is, if the fluids are at a predetermined pH level corresponding to the trigger. For if not, the trigger is remains in a state of inactivation, but if the pH is within the predetermined pH range corresponding to the trigger, the trigger is configured to dissolve. Upon dissolving of the trigger, a subduing agent activates causing terminal damage in the digestive system of the wild animal leading to its death. The subduing agent may include metal reactants, chemical agents, percussion devices, compressed sponges, etc. |
| US07959923B2 |
Method for treating cancer using anti-Wnt2 monoclonal antibodies and siRNA
This invention relates to methods of inhibiting the growth of cells, in particular cancer cells, that overexpress Wnt2. The methods comprise contacting the cell with an agent that binds to Wnt2 mRNA or Wnt2 protein, interferes with Wnt2 signaling or inhibits binding of the Wnt2 protein to another protein, such as a Frizzled receptor. |