Document Document Title
US07755852B2 Optical element molding method and optical element
A molding material is heated and pressed plural times when molded is an optical element having a radius of curvature smaller than a radius of a sphere having the same volume as the optical element. When such an optical element is molded, a closed space is formed between a molding material and a transfer surface of a mold in a state where the molding material is placed thereon. Thus, an appearance defect such as a recess is easily generated on the molded optical element. However, since the molding material is molded plural times, it is possible to place the molding materials on the transfer surfaces of the molds after a size of the closed space is adjusted so as not to generate the appearance defect prior to each heating/pressing process. Thereby, it is possible to suppress generation of an appearance defect in the molded optical element.
US07755850B2 Lens apparatus and lens system
A lens apparatus includes an optical lens unit including a movable lens portion, a drive unit configured to drive the movable lens portion, a control unit configured to control the drive unit, a difference calculation unit configured to calculate a difference between command signals received at intervals of a predetermined period, and an addition unit configured to add the difference calculated by the difference calculation unit to each of the command signals, wherein the control unit controls the drive unit based on a result of an addition performed by the addition unit.
US07755849B2 Lens and related lens assembly
An exemplary lens includes an optical axis, an optically active part, and an optically inactive part surrounding the optically active part. The optically inactive part includes a base and a peripheral sidewall extending in a direction parallel to the optical axis. The base is connected with the active part. The side wall is a hollow cylinder. The sidewall has an internal thread formed on an internal surface thereof.
US07755848B2 Zoom lens system and electronic image pickup apparatus using the same
A zoom lens system includes a rear lens group having in order from an object side, a first lens unit G1 having a positive refracting power, a second lens unit G2 having a negative refracting power, and a third lens unit G3 having a positive refracting power, and an aperture stop S which is disposed between the second lens unit G2 and the third lens unit G3. At the time of zooming from a wide angle end to a telephoto end, when focused on an object at a longest distance, each of the first lens unit G1 , the second lens unit G2, and the third lens unit G3 moves such that a distance between the first lens unit G1 and the second lens unit G2 is widened (increased), and a distance between the, second lens unit G2 and the third lens unit G3 is narrowed (decreased).
US07755842B2 Anastigmatic anamorphic lens system
Disclosed is an anastigmatic anamorphic lens unit for processing images, particularly multidimensional images, as they are generated and evaluated, for example in connection with spatially resolved spectroscopy. The lens unit has a high anamorphic factor and comprises several lens subassemblies, a positive refractive subassembly (a) comprising at least one rotationally symmetrical lens or lens group being disposed on the lens side in order to reduce the field angle. A central optical subassembly (b) is disposed behind the positive refractive subassembly (a) in the beam path for beam divergence in one or more directions perpendicular to the optical axis, while maintaining small field angles, wherein the central optical subassembly (b) comprises at least one anamorphically distorting element and one or more rotationally symmetrical lenses or lens groups. An additional optical subassembly (c) for narrowing and enlarging the aperture on the axes in which the beam is diverged is disposed on the image side, wherein this optical subassembly (c) located on the image side alternately comprises at least one anamorphically distorting element and at least one rotationally symmetrical lens.
US07755838B2 Optical devices
An optical manifold for efficiently combining a plurality of blue LED outputs to illuminate a phosphor for a single, substantially homogeneous output, in a small, cost-effective package. Embodiments are disclosed that use a single or multiple LEDs and a remote phosphor, and an intermediate wavelength-selective filter arranged so that backscattered photoluminescence is recycled to boost the luminance and flux of the output aperture. A further aperture mask is used to boost phosphor luminance with only modest loss of luminosity. Alternative non-recycling embodiments provide blue and yellow light in collimated beams, either separately or combined into white.
US07755837B2 Image display apparatus
An image display apparatus is disclosed in which the position of an exit pupil can follow the movement of a pupil of an observer even with a small size. The apparatus includes an image-forming element which forms an image, an ocular unit which causes light from the image-forming element to form an exit pupil, and an optical element which reflects the light from the image-forming element toward the ocular unit. The optical element has an optical power and is rotated about a focal point of the ocular unit on the side closer to the image-forming element to move the exit pupil.
US07755836B2 Imaging system and method to change field depth
An imaging system comprises a masking element configured to mask a predetermined quantity of lens elements of a lens array during a scan of a media object to change a depth of field of the lens array.
US07755834B2 Wavelength-selective diffraction element and optical head device incorporating the same
The present invention provides a wavelength-selective diffraction element, configured such that light having a plurality of wavelengths are incident thereon as incident light, which is provided with: a transparent substrate; a concavo-convex part, formed on the transparent substrate such that concave portions and convex portions are cyclically extended in one direction, and comprised of a first material which is optically isotropic; and a filling part, filling at least the concave portions and comprised of a second material which is optically isotropic. The first material and the second material have no absorbance with respect to the wavelengths of the incident light. The first material and the second material have an identical refractive index with respect to light having a first wavelength which is at least one of the wavelengths of the incident light. The first material and the second material have different refractive indices with respect to light having a second wavelength which is at least one of the wavelengths of the incident light and different from the first wavelength.
US07755833B2 Correcting device to compensate for polarization distribution perturbations
A corrective device for compensating disturbances of polarization distribution across the cross section of a light beam (10). The corrective device includes a corrective member (18; 118) encompassing two double refractive corrective elements (20, 22; 120a, 120b, 122; 220; 222; 320, 322) with two substantially parallel surfaces (24, 26; 126, 127). The thickness (d) of the corrective element (22; 122, 222) is essentially constant between the surfaces (26; 126, 127). At least one of the surfaces (24, 26; 126, 127) of at least one of the corrective elements (20, 22; 120a, 120b, 122; 220; 222; 320, 322) is refinished in such a way that local irregularities in thickness Δd are created, by which the disturbances of polarization distribution are at least nearly compensated. The arrangement, thickness (d), and double-refractive properties of the corrective elements (20, 22; 120a, 120b, 122; 220; 222; 320, 322) are selected such that the double-refractive effects thereof mutually cancel each other out if the local irregularities in thickness Δd are not taken into consideration. The corrective device influences polarization only at points where disturbances are to be compensated.
US07755827B2 Display system with variable diffuser
A display system comprises a display device (DD) with a display screen (DS) for displaying an image. A diffuser (DI) is arranged in front of the display device (DD). A controller (CO) controls at least a portion of the diffuser (DI) to be in a transparent state wherein the display screen (DS) is visible or in an opaque state for hiding the display screen (DS). The controller (CO) also controls an illumination system (IS) to illuminate at least the portion of the diffuser (DI) when in the opaque state.
US07755817B2 Color gamut mapping
Mapping of color gamut in a three-dimensional color space is performed by converting coordinates of source reference points to coordinates of destination reference points, and converting coordinates of an initial point to coordinates of a target point based on a first relationship among a first set of volumes and a second relationship among a second set of volumes. The first set of volumes are defined at least in part by the initial point and at least a subset of the source reference points, and the second set of volumes are defined at least in part by the target point and at least a subset of the destination reference points.
US07755814B2 Image reading apparatus
An image reading apparatus includes a reading unit, a control unit, and a pattern region. The reading unit moves a linear reading range, which is provided in a main scanning direction, in a sub-scanning direction that intersects with the main scanning direction while reading an object that faces the reading range, and generates image data on the basis of a read result. The control unit controls the reading unit. The pattern region includes a predetermined pattern that defines a reference position for specifying a reading position that is read by the reading unit. The predetermined pattern has a characteristic portion that specifies a schematic position of the predetermined pattern in the sub-scanning direction. The control unit includes a first image acquisition unit, a pattern searching unit, a second image acquisition unit, a characteristic portion searching unit, a first reprocessing instruction unit, and a second reprocessing instruction unit.
US07755811B2 Document illuminator
A document illuminator includes a light-transmissive element having an embedded source of illumination fitted in a cavity formed therein. The light-transmissive element preferably has one or more optical notches and preferably is encased in an opaque surround to promote total internal reflection of the light rays emanating from the LED. The one or more optical notches may include a dual-V notch or an elliptical notch. The reflected light rays are collected at an aperture which in turn transmit light at high power and highly uniform illumination profile to illuminate a document.
US07755809B2 Laser scanning optical system and image forming apparatus
A laser scanning optical system converts a plurality of beams emitted from the laser diode (LD) into parallel light using a collimator lens, shapes the parallel light using an aperture, and executes exposure of a plurality of lines simultaneously on a photoreceptor drum. To cause a necessary emitting point interval d determined uniquely from the magnification of the optical system to coincide with an emitting point interval of the LD used, the LD is rotated by an angle θ against the main optical axis plane thereof. In this case, a converting device that converts the aspect ratio of a profile of the light beam emitted from the LD is provided. A conversion characteristic of the converting device is adjusted such that the characteristic is matched with a condition within a predetermined region following a characteristic of the optical system.
US07755807B2 Image reading device and image forming apparatus
The image reading device of the present invention is an image reading device comprising a reading unit reading an image of an original document, a clear plate disposed between the original document and the reading unit, a clear photoemitting layer included in the clear plate and having a plurality of emitting areas, a clear input sensor included in the clear plate and outputting a two-dimensional position of a pushed place on the clear plate and an controller displaying an operation panel on the clear plate using the clear photoemitting layer and receiving operations to the operation panel.
US07755805B2 Image reading apparatus, control method therefor, and program
An object of this invention is to suppress a decrease in reading efficiency while preventing image degradation. To achieve this object, an image reading apparatus includes a light source which illuminates an object, a sensor which photoelectrically converts light reflected by the object and reads information on the object, a first density reference member which serves as a reference for correcting an image signal obtained by reading an original by the sensor, a second density reference member which is different from the first density reference member, a comparison unit which compares the second signal obtained by reading the second density reference member by the sensor and the third signal obtained by reading again the second density reference member by the sensor, and a correction unit which corrects the image signal on the basis of the first signal obtained by reading the first density reference member by the sensor, and the comparison result of the comparison device.
US07755802B2 Toner-based noise reduction in electrostatography
In the method, a digital image is received. A granularity model is constructed of each of the toner stations. A noise table is produced. The noise table is based on the granularity models and is adaptive to the content of the digital image. Noise is reduced in the digital image using the noise table. The digital image is divided into a plurality of color records, each corresponding to a respective toner station. The color records of the noise reduced digital image are printed using respective toner stations. Each granularity model defines a toner applied by the respective toner station.
US07755792B2 Image processing apparatus, image apparatus system, and image processing method
An image processing apparatus that controls usage of the image processing apparatus by a user based on restriction information which indicates a function that the user is allowed to use and use information which indicates a number of recording medium that the user use, the image processing apparatus includes a controller that controls the usage of the image processing apparatus by managing a plurality of jobs on a single user basis if a plurality of jobs are generated when the single user performs login and logout a plurality of times.
US07755791B2 Image processing apparatus and image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes an image input device that reads an image to obtain image data and a printer engine that forms an image on a medium based on image data. A bus of a PCI Express standard is used to transfer data. Storage areas serving as end points of the standard and hardware resources that transmit data and receive image data to and from the storage areas are connected to an identical switch according to the PCI Express standard. Specifically, an input/output area, an image input device, and a printer engine are connected to one switch, and a storage area, a compressor, and a hard disk is connected to another switch.
US07755789B2 Printing system and printing method to conserve developer
A printing system and a printing method providing a menu to change printing options to conserve developer. The printing method includes determining whether a developer is deficient by checking the status of the developer when a print command is input; setting new printing options upon determining the deficiency of the developer; and generating and printing an image according to the newly set printing options. Accordingly, it is possible to print more pages using the same amount of developer. Based on the menu to change the printing options, the user can select to change the resolution, the scale of the print, and the N-up, to conserve the developer.
US07755788B2 System and method of scanning a job to a group of printers from a multi-function peripheral device
A system and method, for communicating data between a multi-function peripheral (MFP) device and a plurality of networked printing entities, is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method comprises selecting, at an MFP device, a plurality of networked printing entities, wherein information associated with printing, being compatible with the MFP device, is stored on the MFP device, and wherein the print associated information includes at least a location data of each of the selected printing entities. The method also comprises i) receiving, at the MFP device, a single print request for a document to be printed in the selected printing entities, and ii) sending the single print request to the selected printing entities based on the location data and the print associated information such that a copy of the same document is printed in all selected printing entities. In one embodiment, each of the plurality of networked printing entities includes one of the following: a single printer, a group of printers including at least one printer, and the combination thereof.
US07755787B2 Method and system for managing shared printers
A method for managing a plurality of printers shared among at least one user is provided. At least two of the plurality of printers are of the same model. The method includes configuring the at least two of the plurality of printers to report a common serial number by setting a serial number flag in a memory unit of the printer to a predefined value. When a computer is connected to the printer, the printer reports the common serial number to the computer.
US07755784B2 Image forming devices, imaging methods, and methods of modifying a configuration of an image forming device
Image forming devices, imaging methods, and methods of modifying a configuration of an image forming device are described. According to one aspect, an image forming device includes an interface adapted to communicate with a remote device via a communication medium, and processing circuitry configured to access first configuration data to control an operation of the image forming device according to a first configuration to form hard images upon media during a first period of time, to monitor the formation of hard images upon the media during the first period of time, to control the interface to communicate usage data corresponding to the monitoring, and to access second configuration data received from the remote device responsive to the communication of the usage data, wherein the processing circuitry is configured to access the second configuration data to control the operation of the image forming device according to a second configuration different than the first configuration to form the hard images upon the media during a second period of time after the first period of time.
US07755781B2 Image forming apparatus, image forming method and recording medium
Disclosed an image forming apparatus including: a data receiving section; a memory section comprising a shared storage area; an analysis section to generate an intermediate data from the page-description language; a rasterizing section to generate the bitmap data from the intermediate data and to release an storage area; and a print control section to allow a printing section to perform printing, and to release an storage area; wherein a rasterizing section comprises a judgment section to judge whether or not the following condition expression is satisfied when the shared storage area is run out, (number of rasterized pages)−(number of pages whose memory area saved for storing the bitmap data has been released))>0 when the condition expression is satisfied, the rasterizing section holds a processing until the shared storage area opens, and when the condition expression is not satisfied, a process for a memory-full error is performed.
US07755780B2 Information processing apparatus, server apparatus, printing control system, program and storage medium
A personal computer is an information processing apparatus including: a browser which obtains data from a resource and displays an image corresponding to the data; and a printer driver section for carrying out control of printing operation. The printer driver section includes an UI processing section for instructing the browser to obtain setting image data from a content item storage section which stores the setting image data which corresponds to a setting image by which a user sets printing conditions, and to display the setting image expressed by the setting image data in a display apparatus. In this way, the present invention realizes an information processing apparatus capable of easy modification of the setting image for setting printing conditions.
US07755777B2 Wavelength selection method, film thickness measurement method, film thickness measurement apparatus, and system for producing thin film silicon device
An object is to reduce film thickness measurement error. Illumination light having different wavelengths is radiated onto a plurality of samples in which thin films having different film qualities and film thicknesses are provided on substrates, evaluation values related to the amounts of transmitted light when the illumination light of each wavelength is radiated are measured, film thickness characteristics, showing the relationship between the evaluation values and the film thicknesses for each film quality, are formed at each wavelength based on the measurement results, and among the film thickness characteristics, a wavelength at which a measurement difference between the evaluation values caused by the film qualities is in a predetermined range is selected.
US07755775B1 Broadband optical metrology with reduced wave front distortion, chromatic dispersion compensation and monitoring
Apparatus and method for examining a sample with a broadband radiation while preserving a small spot and low wave front distortion. The apparatus has a broadband source for generating the broadband radiation and a first reflective optics that employ toroidal mirrors that are barrel or donut-shaped and may be placed in a crossed or parallel arrangement for producing a broadband test beam that is guided to the sample such that it is incident on it at a small spot. A sampling aperture is provided for filtering a certain center portion from the broadband test beam. A second reflective optics is provided for shaping a reflected response beam from the broadband radiation that is reflected from the spot. The response beam is delivered by second reflective optics to a detector for examination. The apparatus and method can be applied to improve wave front distortion in reflectance measurements and for performing transmittance measurements with chromatic distortion compensation. The method and apparatus further provide for efficient monitoring of the broadband test beam.
US07755773B2 Scanner device
A scanner device for measuring the color properties of a measured object pixel by pixel has a support surface for the measured object, a color measuring head, a drive unit for moving the color measuring head above the support surface in at least one dimension thereof and for adjusting the height of the color measuring head in the direction perpendicular to the support surface, as well as a measurement and drive control unit which activates the drive unit and co-operates with the color measuring head. It is also equipped with an electronic distance control system which adjusts the distance of the color measuring head above the measurement point in the direction perpendicular to the support surface to a desired measuring distance for every measurement point by means of the drive unit. The electronic distance control system works with measurement values generated by the color measuring head and distance values computed from them. The scanner device is suitable for running high-precision measurements on even the smallest measurement fields without contact and no separate measurement sensor is needed for the distance control system.
US07755771B2 Noncontact method for measuring pitch of gear teeth and screw
A pitch measurement method of performing noncontact measurement of a pitch of target portions, the target portions being provided in an object and adjacent to each other, includes moving the object such that the target portions move along a same path, continuously acquiring and storing optical data of the target portions passing a predetermined position on the path from a fixed position, while focusing on the predetermined position, calculating a focusing evaluation value representing a degree of focus at an area corresponding to the predetermined position, using a movement distance of the target portions as a variable, according to a relationship between the optical data and the movement distance, and obtaining a point group of combinations of the movement distance and the focusing evaluation value, and applying a reference curve to the point group, thereby determining the pitch based on a position where the reference curve is applied.
US07755769B2 Method of motion correction in optical coherence tomography imaging
An image data set acquired by an optical coherence tomography (OCT) system is corrected for effects due to motion of the sample. A first set of A-scans is acquired within a time short enough to avoid any significant motion of the sample. A second more extensive set of A-scans is acquired over an overlapping region on the sample. Significant sample motion may occur during acquisition of the second set. A-scans from the first set are matched with A-scans from the second set, based on similarity between the longitudinal optical scattering profiles they contain. Such matched pairs of A-scans are likely to correspond to the same region in the sample. Comparison of the OCT scanner coordinates that produced each A-scan in a matching pair, in conjunction with any shift in the longitudinal scattering profiles between the pair of A-scans, reveals the displacement of the sample between acquisition of the first and second A-scans in the pair. Estimates of the sample displacement are used to correct the transverse and longitudinal coordinates of the A-scans in the second set, to form a motion-corrected OCT data set.
US07755768B2 Apparatus for and a method of determining a characteristic of a layer or layers
In respective measurement operations on a first sample surface area having a layer structure (81) and a characterized second sample surface area (82), light reflected by the region of the sample surface and the reference surface interfere and a sensing device (10) senses light intensity representing interference fringes at intervals during the relative movement along a measurement scan path to provide first intensity data in the form of a first series of intensity values resulting from a measurement operation on the first sample surface area and second intensity data in the form of a second series of intensity values resulting from a measurement operation on the second sample surface area. A layer structure determiner (100) determines a frequency transform ratio corresponding to a ratio between the first and second intensity data and fits a layer structure model having variable model parameters related to the layer thicknesses and refractive indices of the layers of a layer structure to the determined ratio by adjusting the model parameters, thereby obtaining for the model parameters values representing the layer thicknesses and refractive indices of the layers of the sample layer structure.
US07755766B1 Telescope interferometric maintenance evaluation tool
A system and method for testing telescope optics are disclosed. The telescope optics can be testing in-situ, thus more accurately revealing the as-used optical conditions. The optical conditions are input to a test system which, by objective analysis, reveals a condition of the optics and an indication of the need for corrective action. A test bench for testing optics and for validating the test system using modeled telescope optics is also disclosed.
US07755758B2 Method and apparatus for optical spectrum analysis
The present invention relates to an apparatus and to a method of optical spectrum analysis of an optical spectrum of a light beam (4), comprising the steps of selecting a certain part of the optical spectrum of the light beam (4) to provide a filtered light beam (12), detecting the filtered light beam (12) to provide an electrical signal corresponding to a power amplitude (O(λ)) of the filtered light beam (12), detecting the filtered light beam (12) to provide an electrical signal corresponding to a wavelength of the filtered light beam (12), and providing the power amplitude as a function of the wavelength of the filtered light beam (12).
US07755756B2 Raman spectral analysis of pathogens
A method of assessing occurrence of a plant pathogen in a sample. The method comprises irradiating the sample and assessing radiation scattered from the sample for radiation that exhibits a Raman scattering characteristic of the pathogen. Detection of scattered radiation that exhibits a Raman shift characteristic of the pathogen is an indication that the pathogen occurs in the sample.
US07755755B2 Matched optical waveforms for detection and identification of biological pathogens
A method is provided for identifying a contaminant in a gaseous space. The method includes: generating a broadband optical waveform; shaping the optical waveform to match an expected waveform for a known contaminant; and transmitting the shaped optical waveform towards an unknown contaminant. Upon receiving a reflected optical waveform from the unknown contaminant, determining whether the unknown contaminant correlates to the known contaminant based on the reflected waveform.
US07755754B2 Calibration device for use in an optical part measuring system
A calibration device for use in an optical, part measuring system is provided. The device has a central axis and a plurality of regions which are rotationally symmetric about the axis. The device includes a series of step-shaped portions defining a multi-step region having a plurality of step edges. A profile of the multi-step region contains information for calibrating the system. The device further includes a plurality of cylindrically-shaped portions spaced apart along the axis and defining constant diameter regions containing information for calibrating the system. The device still further includes a frustum-shaped portion defining a pair of spaced, slope edge regions and a sloped region having boundaries marked by the pair of slope edge regions. The frustum-shaped portion has first and second diameters at its boundaries which define a range of diameters of parts capable of being measured in the system. A profile of the slope edge regions and the sloped region contains information for calibrating the system.
US07755753B2 Defect inspection apparatus, sensitivity calibration method for the same, substrate for defect detection sensitivity calibration, and manufacturing method thereof
A reference substrate for defect detection sensitivity calibration has: patterns and programmed defective portions which are cone defects with different sizes and are formed at random on a silicon substrate. By using the reference substrate for defect detection sensitivity calibration, it is possible to obtain an index, usable in manufacturing management, for determining sensitivity adjustment after a lamp is replaced in an illumination part of a defect inspection apparatus.
US07755747B2 Device and method for checking the authenticity of an anti-forgery marking
The invention relates to a device for checking the authenticity of an anti-forgery marking with colors which change depending on the angle of observation, comprising a) several first light sources, emitting in a given spectral range, whereby the light sources are different from each other with regard to the wavelength of the emission maximum thereof and the first light sources (1) are housed in a housing (5) such as to irradiate the surface (O), with the housing (5) placed thereon, at a given first angle (α1), b) a first means (2) for measuring the intensity of the light reflected from the surface (O) arranged at a second angle (α2) and c) a means (7) for the automatic comparison of measured intensities with the reference intensities stored for at least one given color for each light source (1).
US07755742B2 Lithographic apparatus with mounted sensor
A lithographic apparatus is disclosed in which a circular sensor is mounted to a substrate table with three leaf springs that are evenly spaced around a thermal axis of the sensor. The leaf springs are provided in two parts that are releasably attachable to each other. The leaf springs are elastic and allow some movement of the sensor relative to the substrate table on thermal expansion and contraction but ensure that the thermal center of the sensor does not move relative to the substrate table.
US07755741B2 Substrate exposure apparatus and illumination apparatus
An illumination apparatus and an exposure apparatus that achieves higher quality exposure to light and higher operating speed even where the ratio Hx/Hy between the transverse dimension Hx and the longitudinal dimension Hy of the plane of optical modulation of a two-dimensional optical space modulator is 1.5 or above, for instance, are to be provided. The focal distance fx in an x-direction and the focal distance fy in a y-direction of a second optical system that guides light emitted from an integrator to a two-dimensional optical space modulator are made different, in a ratio of fx/fy=1.6, for instance. In this way, the number of rod lenses in the integrator can be made equal between transverse and longitudinal directions and the value of Hx/Hy can be made 2.5 by bringing the aspect ratio dx:dy of rod lenses to 1.6:1, close to 1.
US07755727B2 Liquid crystal display module
Provided is a liquid crystal display module having a liquid crystal display element, an optically anisotropic optical sheet on a backside of the display element, and a backlight element on the backside of the optical sheet. The angle of the phase advancing axial orientation or the phase retarding axial orientation, measured with respect to the short side of the display, of the optical sheet is at least π/16 but not more than 3π/16.
US07755725B2 Transflective liquid crystal display panel
A transflective liquid crystal display panel is disclosed. The liquid crystal display panel includes an array substrate and a storage capacitor disposed on the array substrate. The array substrate includes a transmitting region and a reflecting region, in which the storage capacitor is disposed on the reflecting region of the array substrate. The storage capacitor also includes a first transparent conducting layer disposed on the array substrate, a dielectric layer disposed on the first transparent conducting layer, and a reflective conducting layer disposed on the dielectric layer.
US07755724B2 Display apparatus
A display apparatus is provided. The display apparatus is suitable for a user to view through a polarization component having a first transmittance axis. The display apparatus includes a display module, a polarizer and a biaxial half-wave plate. The polarizer has a second transmittance axis such that a light provided from the display module passes through the polarizer and is converted into a polarized light. The biaxial half-wave plate is disposed on the display module and between the polarizer and the polarization component. The biaxial half-wave plate has a slow axis arranged between the first and second transmittance axes. The polarization of the polarized light passing through the biaxial half-wave plate tends toward the first transmittance axis.
US07755723B2 Liquid crystal display device and display apparatus
A liquid crystal display device includes: a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between a first substrate and a second substrate; and a reflective display area on the first substrate side, the reflective display area being provided with a common electrode and a pixel electrode having a plurality of slits so as to apply an electric field to the liquid crystal layer, wherein between the first substrate and the pixel electrode, a reflective film and an interlayer insulating film, both films having projecting patterns on a front surface side, are arranged in this order from the first substrate side, and the pixel electrode and the common electrode are arranged so that electric field intensities between the pixel electrode and the common electrode are made equal in the reflective display area.
US07755717B2 Polarizing element, polarizing element manufacturing method, liquid crystal device, and projection display
A polarizing element manufacturing method includes (a) forming a plurality of fine metal wires by forming a metal film on a substrate and patterning the metal film, (b) applying, onto a base material, a glass precursor solution for forming a protective layer for protecting the fine metal wires, (c) placing the substrate on the base material so that ends of the fine metal wires are immersed in the glass precursor solution, and (d) forming the protective layer by drying the glass precursor solution, and bonding together the base material and the substrate with the protective layer therebetween.
US07755714B2 LCD apparatus having a display module with pivot portion on back side spaced a predetermined distance from bottom edge that engages supporter and rotates to first or second position depending upon contact with table or wall type surface
A liquid crystal display apparatus, which is in contact with a surface, includes a liquid crystal display module and a supporter. The liquid crystal display module has a display side and a back side, which is disposed opposite to the display side. The liquid crystal display module further has a first pivoting portion. The supporter is installed on the back side, and is in contact with the surface. The supporter has a second pivoting portion pivoting on the first pivoting portion of the liquid crystal display module. The liquid crystal display module rotates about an axis, and moves between a first position and a second position with respect to the supporter. A distance exists between the liquid crystal display module and the surface.
US07755712B2 Array substrate, and method for repairing thereof, and display panel and display apparatus comprising the same
An array substrate, and method for repairing thereof, and display panel and apparatus comprising the same are provided. The array substrate includes a base, a plurality of signal lines, and at least one repair structure. The base has an active region and a peripheral region adjoining to the active region. The signal lines are disposed on the base. The repair structure, is disposed on the peripheral region, and has at least one first repair line and at least one second repair line. The second repair line has a first sub-line and a second sub-line. The first sub-line is located between the first repair line and the second sub-line.
US07755706B2 Method for correcting for distortion of projected image, program for correcting image distortion, and projection-type image display device
An image distortion correction method is provided which is capable of correcting for distortion of a projected image by designating an arbitrary correction point by using a simple and easy operation without independently providing a display device and/or a pointing device. The distortion correction method includes a first step of displaying first to eighth correction function indicating marks corresponding to first to eighth correction functions to make corrections to first to fourth correction points on a screen, a second step of displaying the first correction function indicating mark corresponding to the first correction function selected by an operator on the screen in a highlighted manner, a third step of moving the first correction point to be corrected by the selected first correction function and to be displayed on the screen according to an instruction of the operator and of calculating a correction parameter corresponding to a moved distance, and a fourth step of correcting for distortion of projected image based on the correction parameter.
US07755701B2 Image processing apparatus, image processing method, and program
An image processing apparatus includes a down-converter and an image converter converting first image data into higher quality second image data. The image converter includes a prediction tap extracting unit extracting, as prediction taps, a plurality of pixels used for predicting a subject pixel of the second image data from the first image data, a class tap extracting unit extracting, as class taps, a plurality of pixels used for classifying the subject pixel from the first image data, a classification unit classifying the subject pixel based on the class taps, a coefficient output unit outputting a coefficient corresponding to a class of the subject pixel from among coefficients, determined beforehand by learning, corresponding to the plurality of classes, and a calculator determining the subject pixel by performing prediction calculations by using the coefficient corresponding to the class of the subject pixel and the prediction taps.
US07755699B2 Digital camera
A small and slim digital camera with an improved grip and a large display unit is provided. The digital camera takes a picture of an object via a lens unit installed in a front surface of a case of the digital camera. The digital camera includes: a case that has a main body in which a lens unit is formed on a front surface of the main body; and a side portion of the case which is pivotably coupled to the main body to be able to pivot toward the lens unit with respect to the main body; and a manipulating unit which is exposed to the outside between the main body and the side portion at a rear surface of the case when the side portion is pivoted.
US07755692B2 Image pickup apparatus having controlled start-up
An image pickup apparatus of the present invention can eliminate the trouble of starting up the image pickup apparatus once to change settings in order to turn off a start-up picture image and mute start-up sound or operation sound. A method of controlling the same, a program for the method and a storage medium having the program stored therein all can attain such technological advantages. Start-up sound, operation sound after the start-up and display of a start-up picture image of the image pickup apparatus are inhibited by depressing a predetermined button in starting up the image pickup apparatus.
US07755691B2 Driving method for solid-state image pickup device and image pickup apparatus
Screen noise caused by variations of dark current between light sensitive pixels of a solid-state imaging device are suppressed. In an exposure period E after an electronic shutter operation completion time t2, information charges are accumulated while shifting a potential well. With a frame-transfer CCD image sensor in which transfer electrodes G1-G3 to which transfer clocks φi1-φi3 are applied are provided for each light sensitive pixel, at the start of the exposure period E, a potential well is formed for a period α under the electrode G2. Then, the potential wells are formed sequentially under the electrode G1 for a period 2α, under the electrode G2 for a period α, and under the electrode G3 for a period 2α. That is, regarding dark current contained in the information charges accumulated in each pixel, dark currents under the electrodes G1-G3 correspond to the same period. Thus, the amounts of dark current accumulated in each pixel become position-wise averaged values within the pixel and variations in the dark current between the pixels are reduced.
US07755685B2 Electron multiplication CMOS imager
A pixel for an imager is disclosed that includes at least one electron multiplication (EM) gain stage configured in a loop and electrically coupled to a charge collection region and a charge readout region, the charge collection region being configured to generate a charge packet, the EM gain stage being configured to amplify the charge packet by impact ionization and to circulate the charge packet a predetermined number of times in one direction around the loop, the charge readout region being configured to receive the amplified charge packet and convert the amplified charge to a measurable signal. The at least one EM gain stage, the charge collection region, and the charge readout region can be formed monolithically in an integrated circuit. The pixel can be manufactured using a CMOS process. The pixel can further include a second EM gain stage formed in the integrated circuit to increase the amount of amplification around the loop.
US07755679B2 Apparatus and method for reducing edge effect in an image sensor
A method and apparatus for forming dummy pixels exhibiting electrical characteristics virtually identical to the clear pixels of the imaging array. Arrays of such dummy pixels are used to form regions that isolate the main imaging array and sub-arrays of optical black pixels while preventing edge effects. The dummy pixels are preferably clear but can also be covered with optical black. By setting quiescent operation in soft reset, the dummy pixels exhibit the diode ideality and RoA product that are typical of any of the pixels in the entire array.
US07755677B2 Method and apparatus for automatic gain and exposure control for maintaining target image brightness in video imager systems
In an image processing system, the imager gain and the exposure time are adjusted based on a predefined stepping sequence using a stepping table designed to maximize the signal-to-noise ratio in the image. This is achieved by providing a stepping sequence with each step having the largest suitable integration time (exposure) and an appropriate amplifier and digital gain setting, while achieving an equal relative percentage change in image brightness between adjacent sequence steps. The size of the executed AE steps is proportional to the distance between a current image luminance and the target luminance. This is achieved by the capability to skip one or more steps in the stepping sequence, if appropriate, for each relevant executed step, with the number of skipped steps, if any, being proportional to the magnitude of the deviation from the target brightness.
US07755675B2 Information processing apparatus and recording medium
An information processing apparatus provides for continuous reproduction of audio data that has been added to and associated with image data. After a table of data sets recorded on a memory card (for example) is displayed, a data set is selected, e.g., by pressing a display associated with that data set. When an audio recording button is depressed, the sound is collected by a microphone while the button is depressed. The audio data corresponding to the sound is recorded on the memory card as second audio data of the data set when the selected data set already includes audio data. When the data set is reproduced, the image corresponding to the image data of that data set is displayed and the sound corresponding to each of the first and second audio data is output from the speaker in a continuous sequence.
US07755670B2 Tone-conversion device for image, program, electronic camera, and tone-conversion method
The present invention relates to a tone-conversion device for converting a tone of an image having an achromatic signal and a chromatic signal, and it includes the following components: a signal extracting unit defining an achromatic signal of a first pixel or a second pixel from plural pixels as an achromatic signal value, the second pixel being in an immediate neighborhood; a neighborhood processing unit generating a local signal of the first pixel according to the achromatic signal and the chromatic signal of a third pixel contained in the neighborhood area which is larger than the second pixel; a gain determining unit determining a conversion gain for the first pixel according to the achromatic signal value and the local signal; and a tone conversion unit performing tone conversion by multiplying the signal component of the first pixel by the conversion gain.
US07755662B2 Digital camera providing image processing for an attachable printer
A digital imaging system is provided that includes a digital camera and a color printer. The digital camera comprises: a housing; an image sensor adapted to capture analog image data; an analog-to-digital converter adapted to convert the analog image data; an image processor adapted to perform first processing and compression of the digital image data to create a first-processed digital image file; a digital memory in the camera housing having a plurality of the first-processed digital image files stored in the digital memory; and a color printer interface to which a digital image file, which is selected from the digital memory, is applied. The color printer comprises: a color-marking apparatus, and a digital camera interface, wherein the image processor in the digital camera is adapted to perform second processing on the selected digital image file before the selected digital image file is applied.
US07755657B2 Method for high precision printing of patterns
The present invention includes a method to print patterns with improved edge acuity. The method for printing fine patterns comprises the actions of: providing an SLM and providing a pixel layout pattern with different categories of modulating elements, the categories differing in the phase of the complex amplitude.
US07755655B2 Exposure device and image forming apparatus
An exposure device for exposing the charged surface of a photoconductive drum is provided with a light source for emitting light based on image information; a rotary multifaceted mirror for reflecting the light emitted from the light source to scan the surface of the photoconductive drum; a driving mechanism for drivingly rotating the rotary multifaceted mirror; an inner casing for covering at least the driving mechanism and the rotary multifaceted mirror; and an outer casing for covering the inner casing from the outside. An air vent for communicating the inside and outside of the inner casing is formed in a part of the inner casing facing the rotary multifaceted mirror.
US07755650B2 Illumination modulation technique
A technique includes pulse width modulating an illuminating beam of a light to establish a pixel intensity and modulating the illuminating beam to create different tonal resolution ranges for the pixel intensity.
US07755649B2 Methods and systems for sub-pixel rendering with gamma adjustment
Sub-pixel rendering with gamma adjustment allows the luminance for the sub-pixel arrangement to match the non-linear gamma response of the human eye's luminance channel, while the chrominance can match the linear response of the human eye's chrominance channels. The gamma correction allows the sub-pixel rendering to operate independently of the actual gamma of a display device. The sub-pixel rendering techniques with gamma adjustment may be optimized for the gamma transfer curve of a display device in order to improve response time, dot inversion balance, and contrast.
US07755647B2 Flexible display device and method for changing display area
Provided is a display device and method configured to change an image displayed in a display area flexibly when the display area is changed. The flexible display device depending on change of a display area comprises a memory, a location output unit and a screen display unit. The memory is configured to store size information of a display area displayed on a screen and the entire image data of the displayed image. The location computing unit is configured to compute a start point of the changed display area when the display area is changed. The display unit is configured to decode data corresponding to the size of the display area based on the computed new start point from the image data to display the decoded data in the display area. Since the start point is obtained with center point of the changed display area and its size information and then an display area to be displayed is determined based on the start point, a current search location is maintained as it is even when the screen is swung.
US07755639B2 Image reproduction using a particular color space
The image processing apparatus executes a prescribed basic color space conversion regardless of content of the color space identification information when a reduced image is a processing target. The image processing apparatus executes a specified color space conversion utilizing a color space specified by the color space identification information when a main image is a processing target.
US07755638B2 Tinted edge enhancement using look-up table edge pixel identification
The present application is a method of producing digital image objects with enhanced halftone edges. The method operates by selecting a target pixel location within the digital image; observing a set of pixels within a pixel observation window superimposed on the digital image relative to the target pixel location; generating edge-state codes for a plurality of pairs of neighboring vectors of pixels within the pixel observation window; generating edge-identification codes from the plurality of edge-state codes using at least one look-up table; and, utilizing the edge-identification code to select and apply to the digital image at the target pixel either a first halftone screen having a first fundamental frequency and a first angle or a second halftone screen having a second fundamental frequency and a second angle, wherein the second frequency and second angle are harmonically matched to the first frequency and first angle. The method solves the problem of ragged edges on halftone tints as an automated, operation, with a computing architecture that is readily adapted to a wide variety of tinted edge conditions, and which can be readily adapted to real-time applications.
US07755631B1 Transposition structures and methods to accommodate parallel processing in a graphics processing unit (“GPU”)
Disclosed are an apparatus, a method, a programmable graphics processing unit (“GPU”), a computer device, and a computer medium to facilitate, among other things, the generation of parallel data streams to effect parallel processing in at least a portion of a graphics pipeline of a GPU. In one embodiment, an input of the apparatus receives graphics elements in a data stream of graphics elements. The graphics pipeline can use the graphics elements to form computer-generated images. The apparatus also can include a transposer configured to produce parallel attribute streams. Each of the parallel attribute streams includes a type of attribute common to the graphics elements. In one embodiment, the transposer can be configured to convert at least a portion of the graphics pipeline from a single data stream to multiple data streams (e.g., executable by multiple threads of execution) while reducing the memory size requirements to implement such a conversion.
US07755626B2 Cone-culled soft shadows
Soft shadows in computer graphics images are created by rendering the scene from the camera viewpoint and at least one light viewpoint. The positions of scene fragments and light fragments in the scene are stored. For each scene fragment, a frustum is defined between the position of the scene fragment and the light source. Light fragments are evaluated with respect to the frustum to select light fragments blocking light between the light source and the scene fragment. A color or monochromatic shading value is determined for each scene fragment that indicates the amount of light blocked or transmitted by the light fragments. The shading values are then used to alter scene fragments accordingly. Computer graphics images with soft shadows can be created entirely by a graphics processing subsystem or by a graphics processing subsystem in conjunction with a central processing unit using a pipelined, deferred shading approach.
US07755625B2 Apparatus and method for rendering volume data
The present invention relates to an apparatus and a method for rendering volume data in an ultrasound diagnostic system. A method for rendering volume data including an object space and an empty space acquired from ultrasound data, comprises the following steps: a) casting a virtual ray from at least one pixel comprising a viewing plane into the volume data; b) sampling voxels of the volume data along the virtual ray in a first sampling interval; c) checking whether a currently sampled voxel corresponds to the object space or the empty space by using opacity based on a voxel value of a sampled voxel; d) at step c), if it is determined that the currently sampled voxel corresponds to the object space, then returning to the previously sampled voxel and sampling voxels in a second sampling interval shorter than the first sampling interval; e) checking whether accumulated opacity calculated based on the sampled voxels along the virtual ray is greater than a critical value; f) at step e), if it is determined that the accumulated opacity is greater than the critical value, then completing the sampling process for the current virtual ray and calculating a rendering value by using the voxel values and the opacity of the sampled voxels; and g) repeating the steps a) to f) until the sampling process for the pixels comprising the viewing plane is completed.
US07755624B1 Apparatus, system, and method for Z-culling
A processor generates Z-cull information for tiles and groups of tiles. In one embodiment the processor includes an on-chip cache to coalesce Z information for tiles to identify occluded tiles. In a coprocessor embodiment, the processor provides Z-culling information to a graphics processor.
US07755622B2 Flattening a three-dimensional wire harness representation to two dimensions
A method and system are described that allow conversion of a three-dimensional representation of a wire harness to a two-dimensional representation. In one aspect, an optimal viewing angle of the three-dimensional representation is automatically computed such that overlap of nodes and/or branches is minimized. Using the optimal viewing angle, the three-dimensional representation is converted to two dimensions.In another aspect, the optimal viewing angle is obtained through rotation of the three-dimensional data. One technique for performing such a rotation is by determining a plane associated with the viewing angle, the plane being such that the average distance from nodes in the wire harness to the plane is a minimum.
US07755621B2 Fast interactive object manipulation
Methods, systems, and program products for detecting user manipulation of one or more elements of a presentation of a complex solid represented by a solid history tree. A reduced history representation of the complex solid is created. The reduced history tree is repeatedly evaluated to recreate the presentation of the complex solid in response to the user manipulation of the one or more elements.
US07755614B2 Motion detection system and motion detection method
A motion detection system is disclosed. The invention comprises a touch panel, a plurality of switching units, a detection unit and a control unit. The touch panel comprises a plurality of metal sensors, each of which in turn is set as a detecting sensor. Each switching unit is electrically connected to a corresponding metal sensor respectively for switching voltage. During a charge stage, the detection unit calculates the discharge time of the detecting sensor and generates a detection result signal. The control unit generates a motion signal according to the detection result signal generated by the detection unit. Based on the capacitive effect and simple hardware architecture, the invention can be employed in option or orientation control by detecting a human hand's movement on the touch panel.
US07755613B2 Passive touch system and method of detecting user input
A passive touch system includes a passive touch surface and at least two cameras associated with the touch surface. The at least two cameras acquire images of the touch surface from different locations and have overlapping fields of view. A processor receives and processes images acquired by the at least two cameras to detect the existence of a pointer therein and to determine the location of the pointer relative to the touch surface. Actual pointer contact with the touch surface and pointer hover above the touch surface can be determined.
US07755612B2 Touch detectable display device and driving method thereof
A display device is disclosed which includes: a display panel; a lighting unit to illuminate the display panel and having a state in response to a lighting control signal; a pressure sensing unit generating a first sensor output signal according to a touch on the display panel; a light sensing unit receiving light from the lighting unit and ambient light and generating a second sensor output signal according to the touch on the display panel; a sensor scanning driver outputting sensor scanning signals to the pressure sensing unit and the light sensing unit in response to a sensor scanning control signal; and a sensing controller generating the lighting control signal and the sensor scanning control signal based on the first and the second sensor output signals and outputting the lighting control signal to the lighting unit and the sensor scanning control signal and the sensor scanning driver.
US07755611B2 Decorative concealed audio-visual interface apparatus and method
A decorative, disguised “mirror” interface apparatus appears to the uninformed as merely a decorative mirror, but includes an audio/visual output, the video display device of which is concealed behind a two-way mirror. So, when the video display is emitting light users of the apparatus can see the images provided by the display device through a two-way mirror material. Also, a transparent touch screen input device is associated with and overlays the two-way mirror material so that users of the interface apparatus may make inputs by simply making touches to selected locations of the “mirror.”
US07755607B2 Mobile apparatus having tactile feedback function
A haptic display includes at least one haptic device that can give tactile feedback instead of visible feedback. Each of the haptic devices converts a signal from a signal producing unit into force or tactile pattern. The haptic device does not require a large mass, so that it can be provided on almost any portion or part within the body of a mobile apparatus. For example, the haptic device can be embedded under a touch panel display that constitutes both input and output device. By providing the haptic devices under respective menu/function button areas displayed on the touch panel display, it is possible to stimulate the specific button in response to the user-input-operation, thereby directly providing the tactile feedback to the user's finger touching the corresponding button.
US07755602B2 Tactile feedback man-machine interface device
A man-machine interface which provides tactile feedback to various sensing body parts is disclosed. The device employs one or more vibrotactile units, where each unit comprises a mass and a mass-moving actuator. As the mass is accelerated by the mass-moving actuator, the entire vibrotactile unit vibrates. Thus, the vibrotactile unit transmits a vibratory stimulus to the sensing body part to which it is affixed. The vibrotactile unit may be used in conjunction with a spatial placement sensing device which measures the spatial placement of a measured body part. A computing device uses the spatial placement of the measured body part to determine the desired vibratory stimulus to be provided by the vibrotactile unit. In this manner, the computing device may control the level of vibratory feedback perceived by the corresponding sensing body part in response to the motion of the measured body part. The sensing body part and the measured body part may be separate or the same body part.
US07755600B2 Method for driving information display device and information display device using the method
In an information display device according to the first to third inventions of the present invention, when a particle movement type information display device of passive matrix drive and dynamic drive is driven, the particle movement type information display device configured to be driven by using a drive circuit having an output stage equivalent circuit capable of outputting only two values of a predetermined drive voltage value and ground level (0V). Moreover, in the forth and fifth inventions of the present invention, in the method for driving the information display device, wherein the display media are sealed between two opposed substrates, at least one of which is transparent, and wherein the display media, to which an electrostatic field is applied, are made to move so as to display information such as an image or the like, electrodes of the information display device are connected to predetermined potential in the driving voltage range with low impedance while information refresh (scan) is not performed.
US07755599B2 Electrophoretic display device and driving method thereof
An electrophoretic display device including a first substrate, a second substrate, an electrophoretic material interposed between the first substrate and the second substrate, the electrophoretic material including a positively charged particle and a negatively charged particle, a common electrode provided on the second substrate, a pixel provided at an intersection of a signal line and a scan line, the pixel provided in a plural number and arranged in matrix on the first substrate. The electrophoretic display device further including a pixel electrode provided in the pixel, a capacitor line provided in the pixel, a storage capacitor provided in the pixel, and a second electrode of the storage capacitor being coupled to a storage capacitor line and a thin film transistor (TFT) provided in the pixel, a source electrode of the TFT being coupled to a first electrode of the storage capacitor and the pixel electrode, a drain electrode of the TFT being coupled to the signal line, and a gate electrode of the TFT being coupled to the scan line. A capacitor line low select signal VSL or a capacitor line non-select signal VSC having a higher electric potential than an electric potential of the capacitor line low select signal VSL is supplied to the storage capacitor line.
US07755597B2 Liquid crystal display device and driving method used in same
A liquid crystal display device is provided which is capable of reducing a number of components and fabricating processes and of realizing a bright display even at time of a transmissive display and of simplifying configurations of a data signal. Transistors are controlled ON/OFF based on selecting signals input to selecting signal lines and a one kind of data signal input from data lines distributed and supplied, as a sub-pixel data, to a data electrode selected based on selecting signals corresponding to a successive additive color mixture or juxtapositional additive color mixture process. At time of the transmissive display operation, data electrodes corresponding to three sub-pixels making up each pixel are simultaneously selected and, at time of the reflective display operation, data electrodes selected based on selecting signal corresponding to the juxtapositional additive color mixture.
US07755589B2 Noise suppressing method for flat panel display
A noise suppressing method for a flat panel display which is driven by a time controller IC and a plurality of driver IC's is described. The noise suppressing method includes providing a signal detect circuit and a video signal processor; detecting a switch-off signal while switching off the flat panel display, and when the switch-off signal is detected, the video signal processor controls output the driver IC's to output a charge reset signal; and switching off the flat panel display after the flat panel display has performed charge reset.
US07755587B2 Integrated circuit device and electronic instrument
An integrated circuit device includes first to Nth circuit blocks CB1 to CBN disposed along a direction D1 when a direction from a first side which is a short side of the integrated circuit device toward a third side opposite to the first side is a direction D1 and a direction from a second side which is a long side of the integrated circuit device toward a fourth side opposite to the second side is a direction D2. At least one of the circuit blocks on both ends of the circuit blocks CB1 to CBN is a scan driver block for driving a scan line. Or, the scan driver block SB is disposed along the direction D1 on the side of the first to Nth circuit blocks in the direction D2.
US07755585B2 Pixel and organic light emitting display device using the same
A pixel for displaying an image with uniform brightness is provided. The pixel includes an organic light emitting diode (OLED) that is driven by a pixel circuit. The pixel circuit is coupled to a data line, two scan lines, and an emission control line of a display device. The pixel is provided with power from external power supply sources and an initialization voltage source. The pixel circuit includes transistors and a storage capacitor that maintains a voltage at a gate of a driving transistor masking any variation between the threshold voltages of the driving transistors used in various pixels. An alternative embodiment, modifies a leakage path from the gate of the driving transistor to the initialization voltage source. Substantial impact of the leakage is shifted from the gate to drain of the driving transistor. As a result, a substantially uniform brightness is maintained in each pixel.
US07755584B2 Voltage boosting circuit, voltage boosting/dropping circuit and LCD
A voltage boosting circuit performs variable frequency control that gradually increases frequencies of clock signals from a low frequency to a high frequency during a boosting operation period for which a low output voltage of a DC-DC converter when the power is turned on is boosted up to a predetermined voltage. Thus, the frequencies of clock signals may be set according to the boosting operation of the DC-DC converter. Consequently, the operation of the DC-DC converter may be stabilized until the stable operation period is performed after the DC-DC converter starts to operate.
US07755577B2 Electroluminescent device
An electroluminescent device includes a first optical output part having a light-emitting layer emitting a light ray of a first color, a second optical output part having a light-emitting layer emitting a light ray of a second color, and a third optical output part having a light-emitting layer emitting a light ray of a third color, the colors being different from one another. Each of the optical output parts also has a resonator structure that resonates the light ray emitted from the light-emitting layer. In each optical output part, a resonant peak wavelength indicating a peak value of a transmission spectrum of light transmitted through the resonator structure in a direction perpendicular to a main surface of the light-emitting layer is on a longer or shorter wavelength side of an emission peak wavelength indicating a peak value of an emission spectrum of the light ray emitted by the light-emitting layer.
US07755575B2 Plasma display apparatus
Provided is a plasma display apparatus. The plasma display apparatus includes a first electrode and a second electrode formed in parallel on an upper substrate, and a third electrode formed on a lower substrate to intersect with the first electrode and the second electrode. A driving signal is applied to the first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode in a reset period, an address period, and a sustain period per one subfield. The reset period comprises a setdown period. A difference between a setdown lowest voltage of the driving signal applied to the first electrode and a voltage applied to the second electrode in the setdown period is 1.2 times to 1.5 times of a sustain voltage.
US07755573B2 Electric charging/discharging apparatus, plasma display panel, and electric charging/discharging method
A charging/discharging apparatus (602) for charging a capacitance to be charged/discharged (Cp) includes: a recovery capacitor (Cr1) for recovering electric energy which has one terminal connected to a first power supply (GND) through first switch means (SW11) and another terminal connected to a second power supply (Vs+Vo) through second switch means (SW12); first path forming means (D11) which has one terminal connected to a connection point between the second power supply and the other terminal of the recovery capacitor and another terminal connected to the capacitance to be charged/discharged, and charges the capacitance to be charged/discharged through a resonant inductor (L1) when the first switch means is turned on; second path forming means (D12) which has one terminal connected to a connection point between the first power supply and the one terminal of the recovery capacitor and another terminal connected to the capacitance to be charged/discharged, and discharges the capacitance to be charged/discharged through the resonant inductor (L1) when the second switch means is turned on to recover electric energy to the recovery capacitor.
US07755567B2 Image display apparatus, image signal processing method, program for implementing the method, and storage medium storing the program
An image display apparatus which is capable of optimizing the image quality of a plurality of display devices having different optical characteristics when carrying out processing of an image signal supplied to the display devices, without providing a dedicated display driving circuit for each display device. The image display apparatus comprises a plurality of liquid crystal display panels (10, 11) having different optical characteristics. A liquid crystal driving circuit (2) processes an image signal outputted to the liquid crystal display panels (10, 11). Operative states of the liquid crystal display panels (10, 11) are detected. At least one processing characteristic of the liquid crystal driving circuit (2) is changed according to the detected operative states.
US07755564B2 Deployable phasing system for emulating reflective surfaces
A deployable microwave phasing structure having a plurality of planar sub-panels, each of the planar sub-panels having a reflective surface configured to reflect microwaves. In one embodiment, the phasing structure includes a plurality of joints configured to inter-connect the plurality of planar sub-panels to provide a first reflective surface geometry. In one embodiment, the deployable microwave phasing structure includes a plurality of joints configured to inter-connect the plurality of planar sub-panels to provide a first reflective surface geometry. According to another aspect of the invention, the phasing structure includes a phasing arrangement configured to provide an electromagnetic response of a second reflective surface geometry.
US07755557B2 Cross-polar compensating feed horn and method of manufacture
A feed horn with a horn body and a waveguide body, each with a front end and a back end, respectively. The horn body and the waveguide body coupled together, the waveguide body front end to the horn body back end. The waveguide body provided with a waveguide bore between the front end and the back end. At least one slot formed in the waveguide bore parallel to a longitudinal axis of the body bore, the at least one slot extending to the front end. The horn body provided with a horn bore between the front end and the back end. The horn body and the waveguide body formable via injection molding methods such as die casting.
US07755552B2 Space efficient magnetic antenna system
A space efficient magnetic antenna is disclosed for use in tracking, positioning and other applications. In a preferred embodiment, a space efficient magnetic antenna system comprises a first magnetic antenna with a first null axis aligned within a predetermined plane and a second magnetic antenna having a second null axis aligned substantially orthogonal to a first null axis. A second magnetic antenna system lies in a minimal coupling orientation with respect to a first magnetic antenna system. Additionally, a first magnetic antenna may further comprise a plurality of interconnected magnetic antenna elements. A space efficient magnetic antenna system may include an RF module. An RF module may alternately utilize a first magnetic antenna and a second magnetic antenna, or an RF module may drive a second magnetic antenna in phase quadrature with respect to a first magnetic antenna. In still further embodiments, a space efficient magnetic antenna system may further include a third mutually orthogonal magnetic antenna.
US07755549B2 Carrier with solid antenna structure and manufacturing method thereof
Carrier with solid antenna structure comprises a substrate and at least one solid antenna structure. The substrate has an upper surface, a lower surface, at least one first slot communicating with the upper surface and the lower surface and at least one second slot communicating with the upper surface and the lower surface. The solid antenna structure has a dielectric block formed between the first slot and the second slot and a radiation conductor, in which the dielectric block encloses the radiation conductor. In this invention, the solid antenna structure is used to enable the carrier to be applied to higher power transmission. Additionally, by setting the material of the dielectric block and optimizing the size of the radiation conductor, the carrier can be applied to multi-band.
US07755548B2 Cable tension mechanism for an antenna
A system comprises a hinged antenna adapted to reside within a slot, an electrical cable connected to the antenna, and a cable tension mechanism. The cable tension mechanism receives the electrical cable from the antenna and pulls on the cable when the hinged antenna is in the slot and also when the hinged antenna is rotated to a deployed position at least partially outside the slot.
US07755547B2 Mechanically tunable antenna for communication devices
A radio antenna assembly for use in a communication device has an antenna element disposed adjacent to a ground plane to form a physical relationship with the ground plane. A mechanical device is used to change the physical relationship for changing the operating impedance of the antenna element or shifting the frequency band of the antenna assembly. The physical relationship can be changed by mechanically changing the shape of the antenna element. When the antenna element comprises a first radiating element and a second radiating element disposed at a lateral distance from the first radiating element, the physical relationship can be changed by changing the distance. When a physical object is disposed between the antenna element and the ground plane, the physical relationship can be changed by moving or twisting the physical object. The object can be electrically conducting, dielectric or magnetic.
US07755546B2 Antenna device and mobile terminal apparatus equipped with the antenna device
There is provided an antenna device which includes: a loop antenna connected at one end to a feed point and connected at the other end to ground, and provided to correspond to a first frequency band; and at least one stub antenna provided in the form of extending a part of the loop antenna and provided to correspond to a second frequency band overlapping with a partial frequency band of the first frequency band to which the loop antenna corresponds.
US07755543B2 Apparatus and method of correcting moving direction of pedestrian
Provided are an apparatus and a method of correcting a moving direction of a pedestrian, which can estimate a pedestrian location accurately by correcting error components that are included in a moving direction angle, detected by a terrestrial magnetism sensor. The apparatus for correcting a pedestrian moving direction, including a signal receiving unit which estimates a pedestrian location using a satellite signal from a satellite, a sensor unit which detects a first moving direction angle using a terrestrial magnetism sensor, and a control unit which calculates a second moving direction angle using a pedestrian location estimated by using a satellite signal of good reception quality and corrects the first moving direction angle detected by the terrestrial magnetism sensor by using the calculated second moving direction angle.
US07755538B2 Radar apparatus
The present invention provides a radar apparatus including: a transmission pulse group generator configured to generate: a first transmission pulse group from a first transmission pulse train formed of N first transmission pulses (N>2, where N is an integer number) having constant first time intervals t1, by thinning a first transmission pulse out of the first transmission pulse train so that all the intervals ranging from t1 to (N−1)*t1 are held by pairs of first transmission pulses selected from the first transmission pulse group; and a second transmission pulse group from a second transmission pulse train formed of M second transmission pulses (M>2, where M is an integer number) having second time intervals t2 different from the first time intervals t1, by thinning a second transmission pulse out of the second transmission pulse train so that all time intervals ranging from t2 to (M−1)*t2 are held by pairs of second transmission pulses selected from the second transmission pulse group. The radar apparatus also includes a transmitter configured to transmit the first transmission pulse group and the second transmission pulse group in a way that the first and second transmission pulse groups partially or entirely overlap each other in terms of time.
US07755536B1 Method of signal processing for determining range and velocity of an object
The present invention is a method of finding range and velocity of a target in a radar system using a time scale factor. Specifically, sending at least one signal from at least one transmitter to a target. A return signal is then received from the target at each transmitter and the elapsed time is recorded. The range to the target and velocity of the target are calculated based on a time scale factor of the recorded elapsed times. These values are appropriately output to the user.
US07755532B2 Methods and apparatus for assignment and maintenance of unique aircraft addresses for TIS-B services
Methods and apparatus for assigning a pseudo address to an aircraft not equipped with an ADS-B transponder and maintaining the assigned pseudo address over a number of regions each supported by different TIS-B systems. In an exemplary embodiment, each TIS-B system is assigned a range of addresses particular to the region in which the TIS-B system is located.
US07755530B2 Analog to digital converter with a series of delay units
An A/D converter has a series of M delay units through which a pulse signal is transmitted while being delayed in each delay unit by a delay time depending on a level of an analog signal. A unit of the converter latches the pulse signal outputted from each delay unit at N sampling times to hold M×N latched data. Another unit of the converter receives the M×N pieces of latched data as a piece of combined data composed of the latched data arranged in an order corresponding to an arranging order of M×N sampling points in the pulse signal, converts the combined data into numeral data, corresponding to a position of the pulse signal in the delay units, at one time, and produces converted digital data corresponding to the level of the analog signal from the numeral data.
US07755526B2 System and method to modify a metadata parameter
A method includes receiving first encoded digital audio data including a metadata parameter having a first value. The first encoded digital audio data has a first dynamic range. The method includes receiving second encoded digital audio data including the metadata parameter having the first value. The second encoded digital audio data has a second dynamic range. The method also includes outputting first decoded digital audio data including the metadata parameter. The first decoded digital audio data corresponds to the first encoded digital audio data. The method also includes outputting second decoded digital audio data including a modified metadata parameter having a second value. The second decoded digital audio data corresponds to the second encoded digital audio data.
US07755516B2 Traffic display system, aircraft including the display system and method of displaying off-scale traffic in the display system
A aircraft traffic display system, aircraft including the display system and a method of displaying aircraft and vehicle traffic in the display system. The system includes an ownship location finder determining ownship location and maps, including airport maps stored in map storage. A traffic information collector collecting information on airport and other traffic. A local display displays ownship on a moving map at a selected range and all airport traffic within range, or a filtered subset thereof. An off-scale traffic processor monitors off-scale traffic beyond the selected range and identifies of-interest off-scale traffic. The local display also provides an indication of any of interest off-scale traffic. The indication may visibly indicate status (e.g., air or ground) of respective said off-scale traffic and may include traffic specific information.
US07755510B2 Intelligent system for managing vehicular traffic flow
A novel vehicular traffic management system that requires no special equipment in any vehicle is disclosed. More specifically, the novel system may be used when approaching a lane closure or lane reduction. The system comprises sequencing signaling devices along the roadway and a central controller. The controller commands the signaling devices to flash (or signal) according to a calculated trajectory. Vehicles traveling along side the signaling devices can pace their speed with cues from the signaling devices. Through this pacing, the system can position the vehicles such that they can merge safely and efficiently. The system can be expanded to merge more than just two lanes. Further refinements to the system include external connections that may include GPS tracking and Internet down/uploading. A feasibility condition/determination can be used with the system to make the system even more robust and efficient.
US07755507B2 Distributed control system and control device thereof
A control device that is used in a distributed control system and controlling a control target while serially transmitting data to a reception side control device by a pulse train signal, wherein when the control target is normal, state quantity data representing the state quantity of the control target is transmitted to the reception control device, and when abnormality occurs in the control target, the abnormality data representing the abnormality concerned and the state quantity data are transmitted to the reception control device in a predetermined order.
US07755505B2 Procedure for addressing remotely-located radio frequency components of a control system
A wireless lighting control system has a plurality of control devices, some of which may be remotely-located. Each of the control devices is operable to be coupled to a source of power and to be assigned a unique device address. To assign a unique address to the control devices that are remotely-located, power is cycled to those control devices, i.e., by interrupting and restoring power to the control devices. The control device then transmits wirelessly a signal uniquely identifying the control device within a predetermined amount of time after the cycling of power. A list of unaddressed control devices that have recently been power cycled is generated. Each of the control devices on the list is then assigned and transmitted a unique device address.
US07755504B1 Appliance warning system and method
An appliance warning system comprises a floor pad for location adjacent an appliance such that a user must stand on the floor pad in order to normally use the appliance. The floor pad has at least one switch movable between an open position when no weight pressure is detected on the floor pad and a closed position when the switch is activated by weight pressure detected on the floor pad. A transmitter is provided for transmitting a signal depending upon whether the switch is in the open or closed position. A module is located remote from the floor pad, and has a receiver for receiving the signal from the transmitter, and a control circuit connected operational between a ready state before the switch is activated to the closed position and a monitoring state after the switch is activated to the closed position. A warning device connected to the control circuit is activated by the control circuit when in the monitoring state when the control circuit determines that the switch has been in the open position for a preselected period of time after having been in the closed position. A reset switch resets the control circuit from the monitoring state to the ready state.
US07755502B2 Anti-tamper electronic obscurity using E-fuse technology
A design structure embodied in a machine readable medium used in a design process includes a circuit that employs an anti-tamper sensor. The circuit employs an anti-tamper sensor that includes a circuit element that is responsive to a first input and to a second input. A selective coupling element couples the circuit element to the first input and is responsive to the anti-tamper sensor. The selective coupling element has a first state that allows the circuit element to operate normally when the anti-tamper sensor does not detect a tamper condition and is configured to enter a second state that causes the circuit element to become inoperable when the anti-tamper sensor detects a tamper condition. A decoy coupling element is disposed between the second input and the circuit element and has an appearance corresponding to the selective coupling element. The decoy coupling element will cause the circuit element not to operate normally if the decoy coupling element has a selected physical property of the selective coupling element in the first state.
US07755501B2 Environmental fuse
The invention relates to an environmental fuse, an actuator and to an associated method for protecting the actuator from failure in a specific operating environment. The environmental fuse then comprises a sensor member for detecting any change in the environment deviating from the tolerance allowed by a specific standard, and a functional member comprising functional means for limiting or interrupting the input to said actuator and/or for giving an alarm. The actuator may also comprise an environmental fuse.
US07755498B2 Discrete leak detection device and method for discriminating the target fluid
A device and method for detecting the presence of one or more targeted liquids in volume of space where the targeted liquid is not normally present. The device includes a sensor that can differentiate between the target fluid and a non-target fluid.
US07755497B2 Urine sensor
Here is disclosed a urine receiver. The urine receiver comprises a container member adapted to suck urine discharged from a wearer of the urine receiver and a urine sensor provided with a pair of electrodes interposed between the container member and the wearer's skin and serving to detect the urine. The paired electrodes covered with insulating coating. The coating is formed with through-holes adapted to expose a limited area of the electrodes.
US07755494B2 Hand washing compliance detection system
Systems and methods are provided for monitoring use of hand washing agents to determine compliance with hand hygiene guidelines. A hand washing agent is provided with a detectable, volatile compound, such as odors, which is then rubbed onto a subject's hands using the subject's hand washing technique. After the hand washing event, the subject's hand is then exposed to an detector (such as a badge), which includes a sensor capable of detecting the volatile compound, and an indicator that communicates detection of the volatile compound, indicating use of the hand washing agent and hand hygiene compliance.
US07755487B2 Interface for communicating with an information processing device
The present invention provides a membrane assembly that integrates an antenna configured to communicate with an RFID device to receive and/or write RFID data to and/or from the RFID device. In various embodiments, the membrane assembly may be incorporated into an information processing device, and the information processing device may be included in an information system. The membrane assembly includes at least a first antenna adapted to wirelessly communicate with an RFID device that may be associated with (i.e. worn, held, attached to, or otherwise related to) a user. The wireless communication between the membrane assembly and the RFID device provides the basis for controlling the information processing device. In various embodiments, the RFID data may be used to authorize, customize, and/or otherwise affect the performance of the information processing device.
US07755486B2 Expanded compatibility RFID tags
Systems and methods for providing expanded compatibility in identification tags such as RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) devices. Integrated devices can be equipped with various combinations of passive and active tags configured for compatibility with passive and active readers, respectively. Additionally, the integrated devices can be equipped with various combinations of passive and active tag readers for compatibility with passive and active tags, respectively. A first combination comprises an active tag and a passive tag reader for collecting information over a passive channel, and sending the information over an active channel. A second combination comprises an active tag and a passive tag receiver/transceiver for communication over both active and passive channels. A third combination comprises an active tag and an active tag reader for collecting information over an active channel, and sending information over an active channel.
US07755485B2 System and method for electronic article surveillance
An EAS tag polling system includes a plurality of EAS tags and a base station, wherein each of the tags transmits an acknowledgement to the base station. The base acknowledgments may be sent passively or actively in response to a request from the base station. The base station discriminates between each acknowledgment received and associates it to the tag from which it had been transmitted. From each acknowledgement received, the base station indicates that a positive response is associated with each of the tags from which the acknowledgement is received and a negative response is associated with each of the tags from which the acknowledgement is not received.
US07755484B2 RFID tag and method of manufacturing the same
A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag and method of manufacturing the same. In a preferred embodiment, the RFID tag includes a radio frequency (RF) inlay, the RF inlay including a carrier sheet, an antenna printed on the carrier sheet and a wireless communication device bonded to the antenna. The RFID tag also includes a plastic extrudate, the RF inlay being disposed within the extrudate so that the antenna and the wireless communication device are encapsulated on all sides within the extrudate. Optional metallic reflector and mounting adhesive layers may be laminated onto the underside of the extrudate. The present invention is also directed to an automated method for manufacturing the above RFID tag, such a method involving, in one embodiment, feeding a continuous supply of RF inlays into a cross-head extruder to yield a continuously extruded block and then cutting the block between successive antennae to yield a plurality of individual RFID tags.
US07755483B2 Article holding and tracking device
An apparatus is provided for holding articles, such as keys, which is attachable to a person's clothing, handbag or a purse, and wherein a physical or electronic tether is used to allow the user to use the articles stored thereupon without removing them from the holder or from their clothing, handbag, purse, briefcase or other hand carried item. The tension on the tether is manageable by the use of a tension management system, so that the tension of the tether will not damage the article or the mechanism that the article is used with and the article is tracked by use of the tether so that the user does not lose the article. Infrared, radio frequency, and transponder and polling versions of the invention are also disclosed.
US07755481B2 Disaster warning system
A disaster warning system including a weather radio, a tornado acoustic signature detector combined with a smoke detector and a carbon monoxide detector. The disaster warning system includes a central control unit and peripheral alarm unit, which report the alarm signals generated by the control unit.
US07755477B2 Portable apparatus for preventing damages from electro-magnetic field for implantable device in human bodies
An apparatus detects DC magnetic field, AC magnetic and electrical fields, and high frequency/microwave radiation, and alarms when the field strength is beyond the safety threshold. The threshold was set up based on pacemaker and other implantable device manufacturer's specifications and left enough safety margins to give early warning before the sources actually start interfering with the implanted devices.
US07755476B2 System and apparatus for servicing equipment
A system and apparatus for determining the optimal servicing position for equipment or parts thereof. The system and apparatus of the present invention improves efficiency of equipment servicing, safety of mechanics or service persons and accuracy of determining various optimal servicing positions.
US07755475B2 Device for brake light control
A device for controlling the brake lights in a motor vehicle having a brake system, designed to be operated by outside forces, is described. The device includes a control device for actuating the brakes of the vehicle in such a manner that an automatic braking operation can be carried out as a function of the vehicle operating conditions, and at least one brake lamp which can be actuated by the control device or by a separate control unit. The control device or the control unit may be designed in such a manner that during an automatic braking operation, the brake lamp is switched on below a predefined boundary speed, as a function of a braking pressure determined in the activated brake of the vehicle, or as a function of a parameter correlating to the braking pressure.
US07755473B2 Active safety system for a vehicle and a method for operation in an active safety system
An active safety system for a vehicle includes an external object sensor system arranged on a host vehicle. The sensor system designed to sense objects external to the host vehicle and generate input data relating to the objects, wherein the input data includes an object position ((R, ψrel)(t)). Additionally, a threat indicator is included to assign a threat level (Tk(t)) to each external object (k) detected by the sensor system.
US07755472B2 System and method for setting functions according to location
An apparatus, system, and method for controlling functions of a vehicular alarm. The method includes receiving one or more signals including location information, determining a location of the vehicle using the location information, setting one or more functions based on the location information, determining whether an alarm function is activated, and activating the one or more functions according to the setting upon determining that an alarm has been activated. The method may further include using GPS data or signals transmitted from one or more base stations (e.g., from cellular telephone base stations, computer networks, proprietary transmitters, etc.) to determine the position of the apparatus (e.g., installed in the vehicle). The apparatus may also inform a user of regulations relating to an area dependent upon its location.
US07755465B2 Temperature control switch
A temperature control switch comprises a switch casing, which contains a springy slice, where the springy slice is provided with a thermostatic bimetal strip on its bouncing end. The thermostatic bimetal strip is provided with an electric heating device, where the first end and second end of the device are respectively connected in series between a first control terminal and the thermostatic bimetal strip. The elevated end of the thermostatic bimetal strip links one end of an uplifted metal slice to form an incompletely fixed link point, while the other end of the uplifted metal slice features a swaying contact, which corresponds to the contact point that a second control terminal joins. When subjected to heat, the one end of the thermostatic bimetal strip deforms, enabling the swaying contact to separate from the contact point, thus preventing the contact point from being damaged by the heat.
US07755460B2 Micro-switching device
A micro-switching device includes a movable electrode provided on a movable support having an end fixed to a fixing member. The switching device also includes first and second stationary electrodes. The movable electrode includes first and second contact portions. The first stationary electrode includes a third contact portion facing the first contact portion of the movable electrode. The second stationary electrode includes a fourth contact portion facing the second contact portion of the movable electrode. The distance between the first and the third contact portions is smaller than the distance between the second and the fourth contact portions. The switching device further includes a driving mechanism having a driving force generation region provided on the movable support. The center of gravity of the driving force generation region is closer to the second contact portion than to the first contact portion.
US07755454B2 Micro-electromechanical device
Provided is a micro-electromechanical device capable of processing an electric signal in the high frequency region by a simple device structure. The micro-electromechanical device is formed, including an oscillator element having a plurality of electrodes disposed on a substrate and a beam facing the electrodes to oscillate by electrostatic drive. An input/output of a high frequency signal is applied to one of the combinations of the electrodes and the beam.
US07755453B2 Duplexer
A duplexer includes an antenna terminal, a first filter connected to the antenna terminal, a second filter that has a passband at a high-frequency side of the first filter and is connected to the antenna terminal, and a resonance circuit that is connected between the second filter and the antenna terminal and includes a first inductor and a first capacitor connected in parallel. Assuming that a passband frequency of the first filter ranges from f1Low to f1High (f1Low˜f1High) and a passband frequency ranges from f2Low to f2High (f2Low˜f2High), the resonator has a resonance frequency fr satisfying: fr=(f2Low˜f2High)±(f1Low˜f1High), or fr=2(f1Low˜f1High)±(f2Low˜f2High).
US07755449B2 Printed circuit board having impedance-matched strip transmission line
A printed circuit board (PCB) including an impedance-matched strip transmission line includes a strip transmission line including a main line and at least one pair of branch lines branching off from the main line. An upper ground layer is disposed over the strip transmission line and has upper opening parts corresponding in position to the branch lines. A lower ground layer is disposed under the strip transmission line and has lower opening parts corresponding in position to the branch lines. The upper and lower opening parts are symmetric about the branch lines of the strip transmission line.
US07755447B2 Multilayer balun, hybrid integrated circuit module, and multilayer substrate
A multilayer balun comprises first and second transmission lines that constitute a half-wave transmission line are opposed in adjacent layers, with a dielectric substance therebetween, so that, during use, the current of the first transmission line and the current of the second transmission line flow in the same direction. Thus, magnetic shield is formed between the first and second transmission lines. This eliminates the need for a grounding electrode layer for preventing magnetic interference between the first and second transmission lines.
US07755446B2 Waveguide and method for adjusting waveguide structure thereof
A waveguide comprises a connecting part, a main chamber and a buffer. The connecting part is connected to the main chamber via the buffer. The side length of the junction between the connecting part and the buffer is smaller than that of the junction between the buffer and the main chamber.
US07755442B2 Receiver with colpitts differential oscillator, colpitts quadrature oscillator, and common-gate low noise amplifier
Embodiments of the present invention include a common-gate amplifier having an input terminal and an output terminal, a transistor having a source, a drain, and a gate, four inductors, and two capacitors, and a negative amplification circuitry. The negative amplification circuitry has an input terminal to receive an RF signal. The negative amplification circuitry applies negative or zero amplification to the RF signal and outputs the negative or zero amplified signal on an output terminal. Alternative embodiments include a Colpitts differential oscillator, which includes two Colpitts single-ended oscillators. Each Colpitts single-ended oscillator includes a transistor. The source of the transistor in one Colpitts single-ended oscillator may be capacitively coupled to the gate of the transistor in the other Colpitts single-ended oscillator.
US07755441B1 Frequency and temperature compensation synthesis for a MEMS resonator
A signal generation technique is based on a reference frequency provided by a MEMS resonator. The signal generation technique compensates for temperature- and fabrication process-induced frequency variations collectively. In some embodiments, a device implementing the disclosed signal generation technique includes a fractional-N synthesizer, a temperature sensor, calibration data, and a sigma-delta modulator to adjust the reference frequency of the MEMS resonator to a desired frequency value while compensating for the temperature variation of the MEMS resonator.
US07755437B2 Phase locked loop system having locking and tracking modes of operation
An embodiment pertains to a phase locked loop (PLL) circuit. The PLL includes a voltage controlled oscillator which outputs a signal at a desired frequency. A phase detector is coupled to an output from the voltage controlled oscillator. The phase detector compares the phase of a signal output from the voltage controlled oscillator (VCO) with the phase of a reference signal. A loop filter is coupled to the VCO and the phase detector. The loop filter has a locking mode of operation for locking the phase of the VCO signal to the phase of the reference signal. The loop filter can subsequently be placed in a tracking mode of operation which adjusts the phase of the VCO signal to track the phase of the reference signal.
US07755436B2 PLL apparatus
Provided is a PLL apparatus outputting a frequency signal from a voltage-controlled oscillation unit in synchronization with an external reference frequency signal, in which the fluctuation of the frequency is reduced even when the external reference signal has a troubleFor solving the problem, as a result of monitoring the signal level of the external reference frequency signal, when its signal level falls within a set range, data regarding a phase difference created by a phase difference data creating means is used for the PLL control, but when the signal level does not fall within the set range, it is recognized that the supply of the signal has been stopped or the supplied signal has abnormality and the data regarding the phase difference stored in a storage unit, for example, the stored latest data or the pre-created data is used instead for the PLL control.
US07755435B2 Wideband low noise amplifiers
A wideband low noise amplifier. The wideband low noise amplifier comprises an amplifier, an output device, and an inductor. The amplifier amplifies an input signal received from an input node, and outputs the amplified signal to an output node. The output device is coupled to a first voltage and the output node. The peaking inductor is coupled between the amplifier and the output device.
US07755433B2 Preamplifier and optical receiving device including the same
A preamplifier includes a single-ended amplifier, a differential amplifier, an operational amplifier, and a clipping circuit. The single-ended amplifier converts an input current signal into a voltage signal, outputs an amplified voltage signal according to a preset amplification gain. The differential amplifier includes first and second differential inputs, and outputs a negative-phase signal and a positive-phase signal. The amplified voltage signal is applied to the first differential input of the differential amplifier. The operational amplifier includes first and second inputs which respectively receive the negative-phase signal and the positive-phase signal, where an output of the operational amplifier is applied to the second differential input of the differential amplifier. The clipping circuit clips an amplitude of the negative-phase signal output by the differential amplifier.
US07755430B2 Splitter circuit
A splitter circuit improves isolation between output ports. The splitter circuit comprises input port 1, output port 2, output port 3, FET 6, FET 11 and an impedance circuit. FET 6 is provided between input port 1 and output port 2 and adapted to amplify a signal at input port 1 to output an amplified signal to output port 2. FET 11 is provided between the input port 1 and the output port 3 and adapted to amplify a signal at input port 1 to output an amplified signal to the output port 3. The impedance circuit couples the output ports 2 and 3, and includes a first series circuit including inductor 15 and diode 17, series connected to each other, a second series circuit including inductor 16 and diode 18, series connected to each other, and resistor 19. The first series circuit has one end connected to output port 2 and the second series circuit has one end connected to output port 3. The resistor is connected between the other ends of the first and second series circuits and the ground. Diodes 17, 18 are connected so that current will flow in forward direction when voltage of a power supply is applied to FETs 6 and 11 (FIG. 1).
US07755429B2 System and method for dynamic drain voltage adjustment to control linearity, output power, and efficiency in RF power amplifiers
A system and method for dynamic adjustment of drain or collector voltage of a power amplifier (PA), including a PA having a voltage input, a temperature sensor measuring ambient temperature of the PA, and an adaptive PA control processor that dynamically changes the input voltage based on the ambient temperature, achieving a desired peak power when the system is subjected to high temperatures. In a further embodiment, a power sensor measures output power of the PA, and the control processor dynamically changes the voltage based on output power when the system serves a large cell in a mobile communication infrastructure employing high power. In a further embodiment, a multistage PA and method include amplifier stages having drain or collector voltage inputs, wherein a voltage applied to the inputs are set so as to be proportional to the peak power requirements of each stage, enhancing overall efficiency.
US07755428B2 Amplifying circuit
An amplifying circuit comprising an output stage circuit composed of a first and a second output transistor and operating as a class AB push-pull circuit reduces electricity consumed by an idle current. A pre-stage circuit outputs a first and a second control signal, and controls a channel current of the first and the second output transistor. In a period in which one control signal causes the corresponding output transistor to operate in class AB mode, the other control signal places the corresponding output transistor in a cutoff state.
US07755425B2 Method and apparatus for reducing frequency memory effects in RF power amplifiers
The present invention relates to a predistorter for reducing memory effects in RF power amplifiers. The invention also relates to a method for reducing memory effects in RF power amplifiers and to a base station including such a predistorter. A predistorter according to the invention includes first means (1) for generating a first signal component, which is an estimate of a drain current of said amplifier, which means (1) for generating said first signal component comprises a linear filter, second means (8) for generating a second signal component as a function of said first signal component and at least one first gain function; third means (9) for generating a third signal component as a function of a conjugate of said first signal component and at least one second gain function, and fourth means (7) for combining at least said second signal component and said third signal component to form an output signal. The output signal from the predistorter is further used as input to the power amplifier, which when amplified reduces the memory effects of the amplifier.
US07755421B2 Analog amplifier having DC offset cancellation circuit and method of offset cancellation for analog amplifiers
An amplifier having DC offset compensation includes at least one input node and a pair of differential output nodes, a biasing circuit coupled to the input node; and a plurality of current sources. Selected ones of said current sources are coupled to the input node to adjust a DC voltage at the input node to provide DC offset compensation for the amplifier
US07755413B2 Combination of analog and digital feedback for adaptive slew rate control
An apparatus for scaling a load device with frequency in a phase interpolator can include an analog loop and a digital loop. The load device of the phase interpolator can include a transistor and a plurality of resistors selectively configured in parallel with the transistor. The analog loop controls a resistance of the transistor based on a voltage applied to a control terminal of the transistor. For instance, the analog loop can tune the resistance of a PMOS device by adjusting a voltage applied to the PMOS device's gate terminal. In addition, the analog loop can include a comparator to compare a voltage across the transistor to a reference voltage such that an optimal voltage is maintained for an output swing of the phase interpolator. The analog loop can also include a low pass filter coupled to an output of the comparator to define frequency stability and loop bandwidth of the analog loop. The digital loop operates in conjunction with the analog loop and controls the plurality of resistors by incrementing or decrementing a number of resistors that are configured in parallel with the transistor in the load device. In combining the analog and digital loops to control the load device of the phase interpolator, this configuration takes advantage of the wide tuning range of the digital control and the smooth, continuous output of the analog control. Further, in operating the analog and digital loops in conjunction with each other, the present invention avoids a long observation time in locking the system, as seen in conventional designs, while guaranteeing frequency stability in the operation of both the analog and digital loops.
US07755411B2 DC current reduction circuit
A DC current reduction circuit of the present invention that reduces a DC component in an output current of a current output element in which an AC current and a DC current are superimposed includes a low-pass filter for extracting a current component of a frequency lower than a cutoff frequency from the output current and a reduction unit that reduces the extracted current component from the output current. The low-pass filter has a frequency changing unit that changes the cutoff frequency from higher to lower as a continuous function over time.
US07755410B2 Semiconductor integrated circuit capable of overcoming clock signal jitter
A semiconductor integrated circuit includes a voltage supplying unit that supplies a first regulated voltage and a second regulated voltage by using a first reference voltage and a second reference voltage, respectively, and a clock buffer unit that supplies an output clock clocking within a range of the first regulated voltage and the second regulated voltage.
US07755407B2 Variable delay circuit, testing apparatus, and electronic device
Provided is a variable delay circuit outputting an output signal delayed with respect to an input signal by a designated delay time, including: a delay controller outputting a control voltage according to the delay time; a MOS transistor receiving the control voltage at a gate, and outputs a drain current according to the control voltage; a correction section connected in parallel to a source and a drain of the current controlling MOS transistor, and outputs a correction current on a monotonic decrease as the drain current increases in a range larger than a predetermined boundary current within a normal usage range of the drain current; and a delay element running an output current resulting from adding the correction current to the drain current, between the delay element and an output terminal of the variable delay circuit, in changing a signal value of the output signal according to the input signal.
US07755402B1 Calibration of separate delay effects for multiple data strobe signals
Embodiments for positioning rising and/or filling edges of data strobe signals are disclosed. One example embodiment may comprise receiving a data signal, positioning an edge of a first delayed data strobe signal associated with the data signal by a first programmable amount, and positioning an edge of a second delayed data strobe signal associated with the data signal by a second programmable amount, wherein the second delayed data strobe signal is shifted approximately one bit-time in relation to the first delayed data strobe signal.
US07755401B2 Semiconductor device including DLL circuit, and data processing system
A DLL circuit includes: a phase determining circuit that compares phases of respective rising edges of CK and LCLK to generate a determining signal R-U/D; a phase determining circuit that compares phases of respective falling edges of CK and LCLK to generate a determining signal F-U/D; a first adjusting circuit that adjusts a position of an active edge of LCLKR based on the determining signal R-U/D; a second adjusting circuit that adjusts a position of an active edge of LCLKF based on the determining signal F-U/D; a clock generating circuit that generates LCLK based on LCLKR and LCLKF; and a stop circuit that stops an adjusting operation by the second adjusting circuit in response to an adjusting direction of the active edge of LCLKR being opposite to each other to an adjusting direction of the active edge of LCLKF.
US07755398B2 Time constant calibration device and related method thereof
A time constant calibration device includes: a first voltage generating circuit utilizing a first current passing through a capacitive component to generate a first voltage; a second voltage generating circuit utilizing a second current passing through a resistive component to generate a second voltage; and a comparing circuit for comparing the first voltage with the second voltage to generate a comparing signal, wherein the first voltage generating circuit comprises an analog adjusting component for adjusting the first voltage according to the comparing signal until the first voltage is equal to the second voltage, whereby an RC time constant defined by an equivalent capacitance corresponding to the first current passing through the capacitive component and an equivalent impedance corresponding to the second current passing through the resistive component reaches a predetermined value.
US07755396B2 Power network using standard cell, power gating cell, and semiconductor device using the power network
A low power semiconductor memory device using a power gating is disclosed. The semiconductor memory device includes a standard cell and a power gating cell. The standard cell is provided with a virtual supply voltage and a first supply voltage. The power gating cell generates the virtual supply voltage from a second supply voltage and provides the standard cell with the virtual supply voltage in response to a control signal. The virtual supply voltage and the first supply voltage are provided by a first metal layer and the second supply voltage is provided by a third metal layer. The power gating cell may include at least one slice block and isolator blocks. The respective slice block has a transistor for switching current. The isolator blocks are arranged on both sides of the slice block and insulate the slice block from outside.
US07755388B2 Interconnect structure enabling indirect routing in programmable logic
An interconnect structure enables indirect routing in programmable logic. The structure includes a domain comprising a plurality of routing lines and an input line connected to a first routing line in the domain. A switch box is connected to the first routing line and is configured to indirectly connect the input line to the other routing lines in the domain. In some embodiments a domain includes programmable switches that are configured to connect a routing line of one domain to any routing line of the other domains.
US07755386B2 Enhanced field programmable gate array
An enhanced performance field programmable gate array integrated circuit comprises a field programmable gate array and other functional circuitry such as a mask-programmable gate array in the same integrated circuit. A circuit interface provides communication between the field programmable gate array, the mask-programmable gate array and the integrated circuit I/O.
US07755383B2 Calibration circuit, semiconductor memory device including the same, and operating method of the calibration circuit
Calibration circuit, semiconductor memory device including the same, and operation method of the calibration circuit includes a calibration unit configured to generate a calibration code for controlling a termination resistance value, a calibration control unit configured to count a clock and allow the calibration unit to be enabled during a predetermined clock and a clock control unit configured to selectively supply the clock to the calibration control unit according to an operation mode of a semiconductor device employing the calibration circuit.
US07755380B2 Repairing manufacturing defects in flat panel displays
Apparatus and methods for repairing display devices of a type that include a first substrate having a plurality of signal lines formed thereon and/or a second substrate having a plurality of color filters formed thereon include a laser that radiates laser light having a wavelength in a range of from about 750 to about 850 nm, or alternatively, of from about 1000 to about 1100 nm, and a pulse width of femtoseconds (10−15 seconds) to picoseconds (10−12 seconds) and arranged such that the laser light can be focused on selected ones of the signal lines and/or color filters. The apparatus enables repairs to be effected on the display device during any one of several manufacturing test processes using only a single laser apparatus, without the need for additional or different repair devices for each test process.
US07755374B2 Apparatus and method for testing semiconductor devices
An apparatus for testing semiconductor devices includes a first member configured as a drawer to be movable in and out of the housing and to receive a tray assembly containing semiconductor devices having exposed electrical contacts. The tray assembly includes a top portion and a bottom portion. The bottom portion includes structures for retaining the semiconductor devices in fixed positions and tray openings providing access to the electrical contacts. The top portion includes surfaces for contacting the semiconductor devices and a stress relief structure on the top. A second member moves the first member in a vertical direction to a tester pack. The tester pack sends and receives electrical signals to and from the semiconductor devices by way of the electrical contacts. A test computer provides instruction to the tester pack allowing the tester pack to test the semiconductor devices and return test information to the test computer.
US07755371B2 Impedance measurement of a power line
A system for obtaining an accurate, real-time determination of the characteristic impedance of a length of a power line that measures the operating conditions (e.g., voltage and current) for at least two locations on the power line. These measurements are synchronized so that they represent the same instant of time. The data obtained from the synchronized measurements are fitted to a circuit model of the power line to obtain a characteristic impedance for the power line, which can be used to increase the efficiency of the use of the power line and to perform real-time assessment of the power line.
US07755364B2 Image sensor
An image sensor has a plurality of pixels, each pixel having a photodiode (12), a voltage amplifier (16) having gain greater than 1 and a sampling capacitor (18) charged by the voltage amplifier. In this arrangement, each pixel provides gain through voltage amplification. This enables the sampling capacitor (18) to be kept to a low size, so that the pixel circuitry occupies the smallest possible space, thereby enabling large aperture pixels to be formed.
US07755363B2 Ionization vacuum gauge
An ionization vacuum gauge includes a cathode electrode, a gate electrode, and an ion collector. The gate electrode is disposed adjacent to the cathode electrode with a distance therebetween. The ion collector is disposed adjacent to the gate electrode also with a distance therebetween. The cathode electrode includes a base and a field emission film disposed thereon facing the ion collector.
US07755361B2 Apparatus and system for well placement and reservoir characterization
A modular downhole apparatus to determine a formation property, the apparatus being incorporated into a drill string comprising one or more downhole tools and drill pipe, the drill pipe being of the same or various lengths, the modular downhole apparatus comprising a first module having one or more antennas, wherein the first module has connectors on both ends adapted to connect with the drill string; and a second module having one or more antennas, wherein the second module has connectors on both ends adapted to connect with the drill string; wherein the first module and the second module are spaced apart on the drill string; and wherein one or more of the one or more antennas of one or both of the modules has a dipole moment that is tilted or transverse.
US07755360B1 Portable locator system with jamming reduction
A portable self-standing electromagnetic (EM) field sensing locator system with attachments for finding and mapping buried objects such as utilities and with intuitive graphical user interface (GUI) displays. Accessories include a ground penetrating radar (GPR) system with a rotating Tx/Rx antenna assembly, a leak detection system, a multi-probe voltage mapping system, a man-portable laser-range finder system with embedded dipole beacon and other detachable accessory sensor systems are accepted for attachment to the locator system for simultaneous operation in cooperation with the basic locator system. The integration of the locator system with one or more additional devices, such as fault-finding, geophones and conductance sensors, facilitates the rapid detection and localization of many different types of buried objects.
US07755359B2 Magnetic resonance imaging apparatus with noise suppressing structure
A magnetic resonance imaging apparatus capable of suppressing noise caused by vibration of a gradient magnetic field coil and improving image quality includes a large number of ferromagnetic shims disposed in a large number of holes formed in a shim tray, and vibration dampers disposed in holes formed in the shim tray to reduce noise generated by vibration of a gradient magnetic field generating coil.
US07755353B2 Three-axis fluxgate-type magnetism detecting device
A three-axis fluxgate-type circuit having three fluxgate sensors for outputting three analog voltage values respectively. A controller normalizes three digital voltage values corresponding to said three analog voltage values, select a set of linear voltage values from the three normalized digital voltage values and calculate an azimuth based on the set of linear voltage values.
US07755352B1 Built-in testing and transient avoidance for magnetic sensors
A magnetic sensor assembly (S) of the type having at least one capacitor (44) electrically connecting an output signal (70) from a magnetic sensor unit (24) to an output signal source (30) includes switch (14) for controllably electrically disconnecting the capacitor (44) from output signal (70) and alternatively connecting the capacitor (44). The capacitor (44) is disconnected from the magnetic sensor unit (24) by the switch (14) during times that transient signals may be generated by the magnetic sensor unit (24) thereby preventing the capacitor (44) from being charged. A magnetic sensor assembly (100) uses printed circuit boards (PCB) (102) having a conductive element (106) on or within the PCB (102) beneath a magnetic sensor element (104) for testing.
US07755350B2 System and method of perpendicularly magnetizing position information in a magnetically hard layer of a moving component
A position-sensing system magnetically senses the position of a piston rod moving with respect to a cylinder. A magnetically hard layer on the piston rod provides a recording medium. Information is perpendicularly magnetized in regions of the magnetically hard layer. These regions provide an encoding scheme for determining the position of the piston rod. Magnetic-field sensors are positioned over redundant tracks of magnetically recorded regions. Each magnetic-field sensor positioned over a given track senses the same magnetized regions while the piston rod moves with respect to the cylinder. Other magnetic-field sensors can sense ambient fields for use in performing common-mode rejection. A write head can dynamically repair damaged or erased regions detected by the magnetic-field sensors. Energized by a battery-backup power source, the magnetic-field sensors and associated circuitry can continue to track movement of the piston rod when the machinery is off.
US07755347B1 Current and voltage measurement device
The present invention is directed to a current and/or voltage measurement device that allows a user to easily and safely determine current flow by clamping a semi-permanent wrap-around monitor around the power cable without modifying the cable may comprise a plurality of ring-mounted magnetic field sensors which sense magnetic fields produced by the electrical current in the conductors and analysis circuitry for calculating the current in those conductors based on the magnetic field values. In other embodiments, the measurement apparatus may include a plurality of electric field sensors in addition to or in place of the magnetic field sensors, which sense electric fields produced by the electrical current in the conductors which may be used to calculate the voltage in the conductors.
US07755342B2 Multi-mode switching control circuit and method for improving light load efficiency in switching power supplies
A circuit for transitioning between a discontinuous and a fixed frequency continuous conduction mode (DCM) and (CCM) of a power converter having a driver receiving PWM signals and controlling a switching stage comprises a control switch and a sync switch connected at a common switching node for driving a load. The circuit including a PWM modulator for providing PWM signals; and a mode selector for receiving a duty cycle value, a preset switching period, and a duty cycle at a critical conduction point having a switching frequency equal to the preset switching period and providing an on-time of the control switch and a switching period to the PWM modulator, wherein if the duty cycle value is greater than the duty cycle at a critical conduction point, the PWM modulator will drive will provide the PWM signals to operate the switching stage in the CCM with constant-frequency duty cycle control, and if the duty cycle value is less than duty cycle at a critical conduction point, the PWM modulator will drive will provide the PWM signals to operate the switching stage in the DCM by turning off the sync switch when a load current becomes negative.
US07755331B2 Storage battery managing apparatus and vehicle controlling apparatus providing the same
A storage battery managing apparatus which ensures charge-discharge control of a storage battery in consideration of state variation of each unit cell even if the battery pack includes a number of component unit cells, and a vehicle controlling apparatus providing the same. A storage battery includes a plurality of chargeable-dischargeable unit cells connected in which battery management ICs detect the cell voltage of each unit cell, a voltage sensor detects a storage battery voltage and a current sensor detects currents to be charged and discharged in the storage battery. A degree of SOC imbalance is obtained by use of detected cell voltage of each unit cell when the storage battery is being neither charged nor discharged.
US07755329B2 Battery charging time optimization system based on battery temperature, cooling system power demand, and availability of surplus external power
A system for optimizing battery pack charging is provided. In this system, during charging the coupling of auxiliary systems (e.g., battery cooling systems) to the external power source are delayed so that the battery pack charge rate may be optimized, limited only by the available power. Once surplus power is available, for example as the requirements of the charging system decrease, the auxiliary system or systems may be coupled to the external power source without degrading the performance of the charging system.
US07755327B2 Synchronous rectification type battery charging circuit and protection circuit thereof
The present invention discloses a synchronous rectification type battery charging circuit, comprising: a charging main circuit for charging a battery; an anti-reflection switch tube, connected between a voltage input of the synchronous rectification type battery charging circuit and the charging main circuit; and a control logic and driving circuit, for controlling turning-on and cutting-off of the charging main circuit and the anti-reflection switch tube, characterized in that the synchronous rectification type battery charging circuit further including a protection circuit which outputs to the control logic and driving circuit an indicating signal for representing turning-on or cutting-off of the charging main circuit and the anti-reflection switch tube, according to a value of an input voltage of the synchronous rectification type battery charging circuit.
US07755326B1 Battery monitoring and charging system
A battery monitoring device for a battery having cells grouped in modules. The device includes a monitoring circuit for each module which monitors the voltage in each cell and the overall module voltage. The monitoring circuits can also detect module temperatures. The monitoring circuits are networked to a control computer. The device can be used with a power supply and relays for each module to interrupt charging when a fault condition is detected by the monitoring circuits. Other features of the device allow equalization of cells having excessive voltages.
US07755325B2 System for equilibrating an energy storage device
In an energy storage device comprising a series network of n storage elements C1, . . . Cn, able to provide a continuous voltage across its terminals, a system for equilibrating the elements is envisaged comprising a plurality of charge transfer modules Mi,j, each module Mi,j ensuring a bidirectional transfer of charge linear to first order between two storage elements Ci and Cj of the said network. Each energy storage element is connected to p modules, p≦n−1, each of the p modules pairing the said element with another element of the network. The time required for reequilibrating is thus reduced.
US07755320B2 Integrated circuit for driving motor
A motor driving integrated circuit includes a data receiving circuit, a control circuit, and a pulse generating circuit. The data signal receiving circuit receives data signals inputted via a data signal input terminal. The control circuit controls the motor driving integrated circuit based on a first data signal received through the data signal receiving circuit. The pulse generating circuit generates a pulse signal for PWM (Pulse Width Modulation)—controlling a motor coil based on a second data signal received through the data signal receiving circuit. The pulse generating circuit includes a rectangular signal generating circuit configured to generate a plurality of rectangular signals different in pulse width, and a synthesizing circuit configured to synthesize the plurality of rectangular signals outputted from the rectangular signal generating circuit to generate the pulse signal with a duty ratio corresponding to the second data signal.
US07755318B1 Soft-start/stop sump pump controller
A sump pump control includes a microprocessor that sends a trigger pulse to an alternistor to turn the alternistor on and connect the sump pump to an NC power source. The microprocessor also monitors the power source to find a positive/negative crossover point. The microprocessor adjusts the trigger to apply full power to the pump motor during normal operation and delays the trigger to apply reduced power for a soft start and soft stop. The microprocessor also triggers an alarm in the event of failure of the device, including failure of the alternistor or the microprocessor.
US07755317B2 Methods for electric vehicle motor control and rotor position detection fault-tolerant processing
This invention provides methods for electric vehicle motor control and rotor position detection and fault-tolerant processing. The rotor position signal sampled by the system is compared with the previous rotor position θ0. When there is a sudden change, the current position signal acquired is discarded. Instead, a fault-tolerant processing strategy for use during an error condition is employed where the previous sampled rotor position θ0 is used as a base to determine the corrected current rotor position angle Θ1′. Then the correcting value is used to control the electric motor. Thus, during the motor operation, when the detection of the motor rotor position is erroneous because of a sensor such as a revolver that may be interfered by external conditions such as electromagnetic fields or vibrations or when there is a breakdown in other related hardware components or transmitting circuits, the fault-tolerant processing methods of this invention can effectively prevent the motor from losing control and allow it to maintain its continuity and stability.
US07755315B2 Rotary linear drive having a transmitter device
The aim of the invention is to provide a linear/rotation drive with an improved transmitter device for detecting the linear and rotational movements. For this purpose, the transmitter device (12, 14, 16, 17) for detecting the linear movement and/or rotational movement of the secondary part (4) of the linear drive (2) configured as an external rotor is at least partially arranged inside the primary part (6) of the linear drive (2). In this manner, the transmitter device (12, 14, 16, 17) is located in a magnetically shielded area. In order to avoid eccentricities in the transmitted device (12, 14, 16, 17), a journal (10) of the secondary part (4) is mounted on a bearing (11) in the primary part (6).
US07755314B2 Electric-motor-equipped vehicle
An electric-motor-equipped vehicle of the present invention includes an electric motor which receives a power supply from a storage apparatus and drives the vehicle, or assists a driving of the vehicle by an internal combustion engine. The electric motor includes: an inner circumference side rotor and an outer circumference side rotor which are each provided with magnet pieces, and rotation axes of which are coaxially arranged; a stator which is arranged on an outer circumferential side or an inner circumferential side of the inner circumference side rotor and the outer circumference side rotor; and a phase modification device capable of modifying a relative phase between the inner circumference side rotor and the outer circumference side rotor.
US07755308B2 Conduction angle control of a switched reluctance generator
A control system is disclosed. The control system has a switched reluctance generator coupled to provide electrical power through a DC bus to a motor. The control system also has a controller in communication with the switched reluctance generator, the motor, and the DC bus. The controller is configured to receive an indication of an amount torque or power required by the motor, determine a conduction angle of the switched reluctance generator based on the amount of torque or power required by the motor; and energize the DC bus with the electrical power provided by the switched reluctance generator based on the optimal conduction angle.
US07755307B2 Control apparatus for electric vehicles
Right after a system operation start but before a smoothing capacitor has been sufficiently pre-charged, conversion voltage control is executed to control a voltage boosting converter so that a system voltage is first raised to a target value. After the smoothing capacitor has been pre-charged, the conversion voltage control is changed over to conversion power control to control the output power of the voltage boosting converter, so that the output power of the voltage boosting converter is brought into agreement with a command value. While the conversion power control is being executed, system voltage control by operating the input power to the MG unit is prohibited.
US07755306B2 Electric power control device, electric powered vehicle including the same, and method for controlling electric power of electric vehicle
A load on a vehicle is connected to first and second neutral points in first and second motor generators through a relay circuit and power output lines. A control device controls inverters depending on a requested voltage of the load on a vehicle such that a potential at the first neutral point becomes higher than a potential at the second neutral point by that requested voltage.
US07755305B2 Charged particle beam extraction system and method
A charged particle beam extraction system and method capable of shortening the irradiation time and increasing the number of patients treatable per unit time. The charged particle beam extraction system comprises a synchrotron for cyclically performing patterned operation including four steps of introducing, accelerating, extracting and decelerating an ion beam, an on/off switch for opening or closing connection between an RF knockout electrode and an RF power supply for applying RF power to the RF knockout electrode, and a timing controller for controlling on/off-timing of the on/off switch such that when extraction of the ion beam is stopped at least once during the extraction step of the synchrotron, an amount of the ion beam extracted from the synchrotron in one cycle is held substantially at a setting value.
US07755303B2 Automobile lighting pulse width modulation duty cycle control with voltage and temperature compensation
An automobile circuit includes a power source, a temperature sensor outputting temperature measurement data, a voltage sensor outputting system voltage measurement data, a voltage adjusting module configured to receive the temperature measurement data and the voltage measurement data, and responsive thereto, to output a pulse width modulation signal, a switch that is electrically coupled to the power source and to the voltage adjusting module, the switch being operable to receive the pulse width modulating signal and thereby regulate a duty cycle for voltage from the power source, and a lighting component coupled to receive the voltage from the switch.
US07755301B2 Backlight unit for liquid crystal display
The invention provides a cost effective way of determining the status of a light emitting device, such as a light emitting device in a non-emitting display device. The apparatus includes a light emitting device, a voltage supply coupled to the light emitting device for making a current flow through the light emitting device, and an electrically conductive device spaced apart from the light emitting device for inducing a voltage proportional to the voltage across the light emitting device. A status determining device determines the status of the light emitting device based on the voltage from the electrically conductive device.
US07755297B2 Display apparatus and control method thereof
A display apparatus and a control method thereof are provided. The inventive method and apparatus improves a response speed of a light source and image quality by minimizing a ripple of a current and reducing a time required to increase/decrease an amount of a current to drive a light source when a light source is turned on and off or a size of a current used to drive a light source is changed. An exemplary display apparatus includes a light source, a current generator which generates a driving current to drive the light source, a first current consumer which has a smaller resistance value than the light source, a first switch which is switched on and off to supply the driving current generated by the current generator either to the light source or to the first current consumer and a controller which controls the current generator to generate the driving current to reach a target value, and controls the first switch to supply the driving current to the first current consumer if the target value is smaller than the driving current.
US07755293B2 Method for protecting a lamp circuit and related wiring
A method for controlling a lamp circuit that includes: setting a first voltage threshold and a first time window within a control circuit corresponding to a characteristic of a first lamp type; providing a first signal through the lamp circuit to start a first time interval and create a first test voltage; comparing the first test voltage to the first voltage threshold; and operating a switch to couple an output of the lamp circuit to a source of electrical power if the first test voltage is greater than or equal to the first voltage threshold before the first time interval exceeds the first time window.
US07755290B2 Micro discharge (MD) plasma display panel including electrode layer directly laminated between upper and lower subtrates
A Plasma Display Panel (PDP) includes a dielectric layer having a plurality of dielectric-layer perforated holes arranged in a matrix; and upper and lower electrode layers having electrode-layer perforated holes connected to the dielectric-layer perforated holes and arranged on both surfaces of the dielectric layer; the upper electrode layer includes a plurality of first electrodes extending in a first direction, the plurality of first electrodes surrounding a group of electrode-layer perforated holes arranged in the first direction; and the lower electrode layer includes a plurality of second electrodes extending in a second direction different from the first direction, the plurality of second electrodes surrounding a group of electrode-layer perforated holes arranged in the second direction. Individual electrodes surrounding the electrode-layer perforated holes protrude from the dielectric layer toward the centers of the perforated holes such that a facing discharge is generated between the upper and lower individual electrodes, resulting in a PDP having stable characteristics and high efficiency and having a simple structure.
US07755286B2 Glass film, process for production thereof, and optical electronic device
Disclosed is a dense silicon oxide film having a high insulation resistance, which is a glass film having a certain level of thickness. Specifically, disclosed are a silicon oxide film, and a glass film comprising the silicon oxide film and silica particles incorporated in the silicon oxide film. The glass film can be produced by a process comprising the steps of: applying a paste comprising silica particles, an organic silicon compound which is in a liquid form at room temperature and water onto a substrate; and oxidizing the organic silicon compound in the paste.
US07755273B2 Field emission device and its method of manufacture
A field emission device and its method of manufacture includes: a substrate; a plurality of cathode electrodes formed on the substrate and having slot shaped cathode holes to expose the substrate; emitters formed on the substrate exposed through each of the cathode holes and separated from both side surfaces of the cathode holes, the emitters being formed along a lengthwise direction of the cathode holes; an insulating layer formed on the substrate to cover the cathode electrodes and having insulating layer holes communicating with the cathode holes; and a plurality of gate electrodes formed on the insulating layer and having gate holes communicating with the insulating layer holes.
US07755270B2 Cathode structure with nanotubes for emissive screen
This invention relates to a triode type cathode structure comprising a cathode conductor (22), an electrical insulation layer (24) and a grid electrode (25), superposed on a support (21), the electrical insulation layer and the grid electrode comprising openings exposing at least one electron emitting element, electrically connected to the cathode conductor (22) and comprising nanotubes (28) made of an electron emitting material. The cathode structure comprises protective means preventing the longest nanotubes from coming into contact with the grid electrode (25).
US07755269B2 Spacer and image display panel using the same
It is an object of the present invention to provide a spacer which has an adequate Young's modulus for a spacer used in an image display panel and allows free adjustment of an electric resistance value, and an image display panel using the spacer. The spacer SPC holds a gap between a back panel PNL1 including a signal line CL, a scanning line GL, and an electronic source ELS provided for the main surface of a back substrate SUB1, and a front panel PNL2 including a fluorescent material PH, a black matrix BM, and an anode AD provided for the main surface of a front substrate SUB2. The spacer comprises phosphate glass including the same transition metal element with different valences. For electrical conduction, the included same transition metal element with different valences allows the use of hopping conduction between transition metal atoms with different valences to perform adjustment of electric resistance relatively easily. The transition metal element is at least one of vanadium (V), tungsten (W), molybdenum (Mo), niobium (Nb), and iron (Fe).
US07755265B2 Lamp base assembly with electronic ballast for energy-saving lamp
A lamp base assembly with electronic ballast for energy-saving lamp includes a housing (22), a lamp cap (21) and an electronic ballast (24) with transistors (23) provided within the housing. A transistor heat-diffusing element surrounding each transistor is provided within the lamp base, for enhancing the heat transfer from the transistors to the housing or the lamp cap, so that the heat generated from the transistors could be transferred out of the lamp base assembly. Thus, the heat-diffusing ability of the transistors is improved, and the working temperature of the transistors could be kept within a safe scope, so that the lifetime of the energy-saving lamp is guaranteed.
US07755264B2 Composition for formatting an electron emission source for use in an electron emission device and an electron emission source fabricated using the same
The present invention relates to a composition for formatting an electron emission source of an electron emission device, and an electron emission source comprising the same. The composition comprises a paste comprising multi-walled carbon nanotubes exhibiting an RBM (Radial Breathing Mode) peak. The paste further comprises an inorganic powder, a binder resin, and an organic solvent. The electron emission source made from the composition of the present invention improves the lifetime and electron emission characteristics of the electron emission device by using multi-walled carbon nanotubes having excellent lifetime and electron emission characteristics.
US07755259B2 Airtight terminal
To provide an airtight terminal and a piezoelectric vibrator having a strong rigidity of a lead despite a small-sized constitution, and provide a method of fabricating an airtight terminal constituting a lead penetrating inside of a stem by one piece and a piezoelectric vibrator with an excellent yield. A stem 11 filled with a filling member 13 is penetrated only with one piece of a lead 12 formed from a lead frame. As an electric terminal, a conductive lead 16 connected to the stem 11 is provided other than the lead 12. The lead 12 and the conductive lead 16 of an airtight terminal 10 constituted by the stem 11, the lead 12, the filling member 13, the conductive lead 16 are connected to a piezoelectric vibrating piece 20, further, the stem 11 is capped to a case 30 to thereby constitute a piezoelectric vibrator 1.
US07755254B2 Honeycomb-type piezoelectric/electrostrictive element
A honeycomb-type piezoelectric/electrostrictive element includes a honeycomb structure section having a partition wall which partitions cells passing through the honeycomb structure section in an axial direction, and an electrode as an internal electrode disposed on an inner wall surface of the cell to internally cover the entire inner wall surface, wherein the partition wall is formed of a piezoelectric/electrostrictive body, and the honeycomb structure section can be deformed by applying a voltage between the electrodes disposed in the cells adjacent through the partition wall.
US07755238B2 Power generator and power generating method
A power generator includes a top, a support, a bearing, a rotating device and a transforming device. The top has a body and a spindle penetrating the center of the body, wherein the spindle is substantially vertical to the ground. The support is positioned on the ground to support one end of the spindle. The bearing holds the spindle and is located apart from the support. The rotating device rotates the top. The transforming device transforms the rotational energy of the top into power.
US07755237B2 Motor for driving a container-holder plate in a labelling machine
A motor for a plate of a labelling machine comprises a housing with a connecting portion for connecting the motor to a carousel of the labelling machine, a motor shaft pivotally supported within the housing, a coupling flange having a first end connected to the motor shaft and a second end that can be connected to the plate. The motor defines a through opening, which is substantially parallel to the motor shaft that allow alignment means to have access to the plate through the motor.
US07755224B2 System for producing electricity through the action of waves on floating platforms
A system and method for producing electricity through the action of waves on floating platforms. The hydraulic force of the water in the waves causes the platform to create a series of reverse incline planes. The system adjusts or tunes the frequency of various components in relation to the natural frequency of the waves. The system has a mass carried on a track that moves relative to the track to create kinetic energy. One feature is to have the track and the mass tuned to the hull. Another feature is to tune the track and mass and the hull relative to the waves to increase power generated. In addition, the system has a microprocessor in one embodiment, that takes input related to waves, the mass, and the floating platforms and actively tunes parameters to increase the power generated. As a mass moves down the reverse incline planes, it gains mechanical energy, which is then converted into electrical energy.
US07755220B2 Power stealing for a thermostat using a TRIAC with FET control
An electronic thermostat circuit has improved power stealing for controlling an AC control device. The circuit comprises a source of AC control power coupled to an electronic switch means having an electronic switch means control input. The electronic switch means controls the AC control device. The diode bridge controls the electronic switch means by a DC control signal applied to the diode bridge means DC connection. The amplifier means has an amplifier input for controlling the state of the amplifier and an amplifier output for generating the DC control signal. An isolated gate FET means is electrically coupled to the amplifier input for controlling the state of the amplifier. The isolated gate FET means is powered by the current derived from the source of AC control power by power stealing. The digital signal controls the state of the AC control.
US07755217B2 Pulse generator
A method for controlling a pulse generator is provided. The method includes measuring a switch-on time difference for each cell and controlling the semiconductor switches of each cell for the voltage pulse as a function of the switch-on time difference. The switch-on time difference is measured between a switch-on signal for switching the respective semiconductor switch of the cell to a conducting state and a system response dependent on the switching to the conducting state. A second switch-on signal for each cell is generated in such a time-shifted manner that the system response of each cell occurs simultaneously. The system response is dependent on the switching to the conducting state.
US07755211B2 Rigid structural array
A device for maintaining a plurality of ocean wave energy converters at a predetermined proximity. The device includes at least one deck having a plurality openings, each adapted to receive a portion of an ocean wave energy converter.
US07755210B2 System and method for controlling wind turbine actuation
A wind turbine includes a plurality of wind turbine blades attached to a rotor positioned atop a tower affixed to a tower foundation. At least one blade pitch sensor is configured to measure blade pitch angles for one or more of the wind turbine blades. A rotor/generator speed sensor is configured to measure the rotational speed of the wind turbine rotor, a corresponding wind turbine generator, or both. A wind turbine nacelle yaw sensor is configured to measure the nacelle yaw, while at least two tower-base bending sensors are configured without use of adhesives, cements or bonding agents to provide large-area measurement of tower deflection. A controller is configured to adjust the pitch angle of one or more of the wind turbine blades in response to the measured one or more blade pitch angles, the measured rotational speed, the measured nacelle yaw and measured tower longitudinal deflection.
US07755205B2 Electronic component, semiconductor device, methods of manufacturing the same, circuit board, and electronic instrument
The present invention is a method of manufacturing a semiconductor device, by forming a wiring on or above a wafer so that the wiring is electrically connected to a first electrode disposed on a first surface of the wafer, forming a first resin layer on or above the wafer such that the wiring is disposed between the wafer and the first resin layer, forming an opening in the first resin layer such that the opening overlaps the wiring, forming a conductive member in the opening such that the conductive member being electrically connected to the wiring, forming a second electrode on the conductive member such that the second electrode is electrically connected to the wiring via the conductive member, and separating the wafer into individual elements after the forming of the first resin layer.
US07755204B2 Stacked die module including multiple adhesives that cure at different temperatures
A technique for forming die stacks. Specifically, a stacking tip is provided to facilitate the stacking of die in a desired configuration. A first die is picked up by the stacking tip. The first die is coated with an adhesive on the underside of the die. The first die is brought in contact with a second die via the stacking tip. The second die is coupled to the first die via the adhesive on the underside of the first die. The second die is coated with an adhesive coating on the underside of the die. The second die is then brought in contact with a third die via the stacking tip. The third die is coupled to the second die via the adhesive on the underside of the second die, and so forth. Die stacks are formed without being coupled to a substrate. The die stacks may be functionally and/or environmentally tested before attaching the die stack to a substrate.
US07755202B2 Semiconductor device and method of fabricating the same
A semiconductor device according to an embodiment includes: a semiconductor substrate having a semiconductor element formed on a surface thereof; an interwiring insulating film formed above the semiconductor substrate; a wiring formed in the interwiring insulating film; a first intervia insulating film formed under the interwiring insulating film; a first via formed in the first intervia insulating film and connected to a lower surface of the wiring; a second intervia insulating film formed on the interwiring insulating film; a second via formed in the second intervia insulating film and connected to an upper surface of the wiring; and a CuSiN film formed in at least one of a position between the interwiring insulating film and the first intervia insulating film, and a position between the interwiring insulating film and the second intervia insulating film.
US07755201B2 Semiconductor device and method of fabricating the same
A semiconductor device and method of fabricating the same reduce the likelihood of the occurrence of electrical defects. The device includes a first interlayer insulating film on a semiconductor substrate; a contact pad spacer on the first interlayer insulating film; and a contact pad in the first interlayer insulating film and the contact pad spacer. The cross-sectional area of an upper portion of the contact pad in the contact pad spacer in a direction horizontal to the substrate is equal to or less than a cross-sectional area of an intermediate portion at an interface between the contact pad spacer and the first interlayer insulating film in a direction horizontal to the substrate.
US07755200B2 Methods and arrangements for forming solder joint connections
The present invention relates to methods and arrangements for forming a solder joint connection. One embodiment involves an improved solder ball. The solder ball includes a perforated, metallic shell with an internal opening. Solder material encases the shell and fills its internal opening. The solder ball may be applied to an electrical device, such as an integrated circuit die, to form a solder bump on the device. The solder bump in turn can be used to form an improved solder joint connection between the device and a suitable substrate, such as a printed circuit board. In some applications, a solder joint connection is formed without requiring the application of additional solder material to the surface of the substrate. The present invention also includes different solder bump arrangements and methods for using such arrangements to form solder joint connections between devices and substrates.
US07755192B2 Copper interconnection structure, barrier layer including carbon and hydrogen
A copper interconnection structure includes an insulating layer, an interconnection and a barrier layer. The insulating layer includes silicon (element symbol: Si), carbon (element symbol: C), hydrogen (element symbol: H) and oxygen (element symbol: O). The interconnection is located on the insulating layer, and the interconnection includes copper (element symbol: Cu). The barrier layer is located between the insulating layer and the interconnection. The barrier layer includes an additional element, carbon (element symbol: C) and hydrogen (element symbol: H). The barrier layer has atomic concentrations of carbon (element symbol: C) and hydrogen (element symbol: H) maximized in a region of a thickness of the barrier layer where the atomic concentration of the additional element is maximized.
US07755189B2 Metal cap with ringed projection to be welded to stem and ringed groove provided immediately inside of ringed projection and optical device having the same
An optical device with a CAN package is disclosed, where the cap is resistance-welded to the stem without causing failures due to fragments by the welding flying within the package. The cap of the invention has a flange portion to be welded to the stem. The flange portion provides a ringed groove in addition to the ringed projection for the welding. The fragment due to the welding may be captured in the ringed groove and is prevented from flying within the package. The ringed groove and the ringed projection are simultaneously formed in the stamping to form the body portion of the cap.
US07755186B2 Cooling solutions for die-down integrated circuit packages
Systems for cooling the backside of a semiconductor die located in a die-down integrated circuit (IC) package are described. The IC package is attached to the topside of a printed circuit board (PCB) with the backside of the die residing below the topside surface of the PCB. A cooling plate is attached to the backside of the die and thermally connected to a heat sink located above the topside surface of the PCB via conduits that pass through openings in the PCB.
US07755180B2 Integrated circuit package-in-package system
An integrated circuit package-in-package system is provided forming a first integrated circuit package having a first interface, stacking a second integrated circuit package having a second interface above the first integrated circuit package, fitting the first interface and the second interface, and attaching a third integrated circuit package on the second integrated circuit package.
US07755179B2 Semiconductor package structure having enhanced thermal dissipation characteristics
In an exemplary embodiment, a packaged device having enhanced thermal dissipation characteristics includes a semiconductor chip having a major current carrying or heat generating electrode. The semiconductor chip is oriented so that the major current carrying electrode faces the top of the package or away from the next level of assembly. The packaged device further includes a conductive clip for coupling the major current carrying electrode to a next level of assembly, and a heat spreader device formed on or integral with the conductive clip. A portion of the heat spreader device may be optionally exposed.
US07755178B2 Base semiconductor component for a semiconductor component stack and method for the production thereof
A base semiconductor component for a semiconductor component stack is disclosed. In one embodiment, the base semiconductor component has a semiconductor chip arranged centrally on a stiff wiring substrate. The wiring substrate has, in its edge regions, contact pads which are electrically connected to external contacts and at the same time to contact areas of the semiconductor chip and also to stack contact areas. The stack contact areas simultaneously form the upper side of the base semiconductor component and have an arrangement pattern corresponding to an arrangement pattern of external contacts of a semiconductor component to be stacked.
US07755176B1 Die-mounting substrate and method incorporating dummy traces for improving mounting film planarity
A die-mounting substrate and method incorporating dummy traces for improving mounting film planarity makes the use of film attach possible with a simplified manufacturing process and in applications where film-attach was not previously practical. The die-mounting substrate includes dummy traces that are generated along with signal traces extending into the die mounting area of the substrate. The dummy traces are designed according to the same design rules as the signal traces and are disposed in otherwise empty regions between signal traces and vias within the die mounting area. The result is die mounting area without regions empty of signal traces that previously either lack conductor or are filled completely with conductor, either of which will result in surface variation that compromises the film bond.
US07755175B2 Multi-stack chip package with wired bonded chips
A stack-type semiconductor device according to the present invention includes a circuit board with bonding pads; a first semiconductor chip which includes first electrode pads and is mounted on the circuit board; a second semiconductor chip which includes second electrode pads and is mounted on the first semiconductor chip; a plurality of bonding wires sequentially connecting the bonding pads, the first electrodes and the second electrodes as a whole; and a sealing resin for sealing the first semiconductor chip, the second semiconductor chip and the bonding wires.
US07755174B2 Integrated electronic components and methods of formation thereof
Provided are integrated electronic components which include a waveguide microstructure formed by a sequential build process and an electronic device, and methods of forming such integrated electronic components. The microstructures have particular applicability to devices for transmitting electromagnetic energy and other electronic signals.
US07755173B2 Series-shunt switch with thermal terminal
A series-shunt switch is provided. The switch includes a PIN diode having an input electrical terminal, an output electrical terminal and a thermal terminal. The thermal terminal is configured to provide continuity of diode thermal ground with respect to a circuit thermal ground node.
US07755169B2 Semiconductor device, method of manufacturing the same, and phase shift mask
A main wall part is provided so as to surround an integrated circuit part. A sub-wall part which is in “L” shape is provided between each corner of the main wall part and the integrated circuit part. Therefore, even if the stress is concentrated due to heat treatment or the like, the stress is dispersed to the main wall part and the sub-wall part, and hence peeling between layers and a crack are unlikely to occur, as compared with the conventional art. Further, even if the crack and the like occur at the corner, moisture from the outside hardly reaches the integrated circuit part when the main wall part and the sub-wall part are coupled to each other. For this reason, it is possible to ensure an extremely high moisture resistance.
US07755158B2 Image sensor and method for manufacturing thereof
An image sensor includes a semiconductor substrate having a pixel region and a peripheral circuit region. An interlayer dielectric layer has metal wirings and a pad formed over the semiconductor substrate. A lower electrode is selectively formed over the metal wirings. A photo diode is formed over the interlayer dielectric layer of the pixel region. An upper electrode formed over the photo diode. Therefore, a vertical integration of the transistor and the photodiode may approach a fill factor to 100%, and provide higher sensitivity, implement more complicated circuitry without reducing sensitivity in each unit pixel, improve the reliability of the image sensor by preventing crosstalk, etc., between the pixels, and improve light sensitivity by increasing the surface area of the photo diode in the unit pixel.
US07755157B2 Photovoltaic device and manufacturing method of photovoltaic device
Solar cells and methods of their manufacture are described that exhibit decreased or eliminated leak current, improved open voltage and improved fill factor characteristics. In an embodiment, a separate processed surface is interposed between a first and a second main surface of a crystal substrate, as prepared by laser irradiation and cut processing. The laser irradiation is applied to an amorphous semiconductor layer of the same conductive type as an underlying single crystal substrate, but does not penetrate an underlying amorphous opposite type layer. Details of lamination and laser characteristics for processing the layers are provided.
US07755156B2 Producing layered structures with lamination
A layered structure can include laminated first and second substructures and an array with cell regions. The first substructure can include layered active circuitry, the second a top electrode layer. One or both substructure's surface that contacts the other can be on a polymer-containing layer, structured to generate free charge carriers and/or to transport charge carriers. A cell region of the array can include portions of each substructure; the cell region's portion of the first substructure can include a subregion of electrically conductive material and a subregion of semiconductive material, its portion of the second can include part of the top electrode layer. The layered structure can include one or more lamination artifacts on or in the polymer-containing layer; the lamination artifacts can include artifacts of contact pressure, or heat, or of surface shape, and the interface surface can be without vias.
US07755149B2 Photo mask and semiconductor device fabricated using the same
A photo mask and a semiconductor device fabricated using the same is disclosed. The photo mask to form a mask pattern defining a STAR gate region includes a transparent substrate, and a light-shielding pattern defining a zigzag W-STAR gate region, wherein a waved portion of the light-shielding pattern partially overlaps a gate region and a storage node contact region of an active region disposed on a semiconductor substrate. The semiconductor device includes an active region and a device isolation region defining the active region disposed in a semiconductor substrate, a gate electrode, wherein a line width of the gate electrode in the active region is greater than that in the device isolation region, and a zigzag W-STAR gate region, wherein the waved portion of the zigzag W-STAR gate region partially overlaps the gate region and the storage node contact region in the active region.
US07755148B2 Semiconductor integrated circuit
Logic LSI includes first power domains PD1 to PD4, thick-film power switches SW1 to SW4, and power switch controllers PSWC1 to PSWC4. The thick-film power switches are formed by thick-film power transistors manufactured in a process common to external input/output circuits I/O. The first power domains include second power domains SPD11 to SPD42 including logic blocks, control circuit blocks SCB1 to SCB4, and thin-film power switches SWN11 to SWN42 that are connected to the thick-film power switches via virtual ground lines VSSM1 to VSSM4, and formed by thin-film power transistors manufactured in a process common to the logic blocks. In this way, power switches having different thickness of gate insulating films from one another are vertically stacked so as to be in a hierarchical structure, and each power switch is individually controlled by a power switch controller and a control circuit block correspondingly to each mode.
US07755147B2 Semiconductor device, semiconductor system and semiconductor device manufacturing method
A semiconductor device is provided with a first conductivity type semiconductor substrate (10); a voltage supplying terminal (26) arranged on the semiconductors substrate (10); one or more elements (6) which include a second conductivity type well section (22) and are arranged on the semiconductor substrate (10); a second conductivity type first conductive layer (21), which is a lower layer of the one or more elements (6), is in contact with the second conductivity type well section (22), and connects the second conductivity type well section (22) of the one or more elements (6) with the voltage supplying terminal (26); and a first conductivity type second conductive layer (11) formed in contact with a lower side of the first conductive layer (21).
US07755146B2 Formation of standard voltage threshold and low voltage threshold MOSFET devices
Wells are formed in a substrate where standard Vt and low Vt devices of both a first and second type are to be fabricated. Wells defining the locations of first type standard Vt devices are masked, and a first voltage threshold implant adjustment is performed within wells defining the second type standard Vt devices, and each of the first and second type low Vt devices. Wells that define the locations of second type standard Vt devices are masked, and a second voltage threshold implant adjustment is performed to the wells defining the first type standard Vt devices, and each of the first and second type low Vt devices. Doped polysilicon gate stacks are then formed over the wells. Performance characteristics and control of each device Vt is controlled by regulating at least one of the first and second voltage threshold implant adjustments, and the polysilicon gate stack doping.
US07755143B2 Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device is described. The semiconductor device comprises a protected device in a protected device area of a substrate. An electrostatic discharge power clamp device comprising an outer first guard ring and an inner second guard ring is in a guard ring area of the substrate, enclosing the protected device. The first guard ring comprises a first well region having a first conductive type. A first doped region having the first conductive type and a second doped region having a second conductive type are in the first well region. The second guard ring comprises a second well region having a second conductive type. A third doped region has the second conductive type in the second well region. An input/output device is in a periphery device area, coupled to the electrostatic discharge power clamp device.
US07755141B2 Complementary MISFET formed in a linear body
Integrated circuits such as semiconductor memories, image sensors, PLA's, and the like have been formed on rigid, planar substrates such as silicon substrates. This has resulted in shapes without flexibility and limited applicabilities. Further, since multiple circuit elements are continuously formed on a flat surface, it has been impossible to produce a non-defective semiconductor memory unless all the circuit elements are fabricated without defects, making it difficult to improve a yield. It is thus devised to weave or braid linear devices into a fabric shape to prepare a planar semiconductor memory, or to bundle up linear devices to prepare a linear semiconductor memory. The integrated circuit comprising the linear devices is flexible and light-weighted, and is thus usable in various applications. It becomes possible to prepare an integrated circuit by once fabricating linear devices and selecting only non-defective ones therefrom, thereby enabling an improved production yield of integrated circuits.
US07755135B2 EEPROM having single gate structure
An electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) includes an access transistor having a floating gate and source/drain regions formed at opposite sides of the floating gate in a first well, a first well tap formed in the first well, a control gate located on a second region, first impurity regions formed at both sides of the control gate in the second region, and a second well tap formed in a third region. In order to erase information stored in a memory cell, a predetermined erasing voltage is applied to the source/drain regions of the access transistor and the first well tap, a ground voltage is applied to the first impurity regions in the second region, and a voltage, which is greater than 0V and less than a junction breakdown voltage between the active area and the first well, is applied to the second well tap.
US07755134B2 Nonvolatile semiconductor memory device
A nonvolatile semiconductor memory device includes: a semiconductor region; device isolation regions placed in the semiconductor region and extending in a column direction; a semiconductor layer placed on the semiconductor region and between the device isolation regions, and having a convex shape in cross section along a row direction; source/drain regions placed in the semiconductor layer and spaced from each other; a gate insulating film placed on the semiconductor layer between the source/drain regions; a floating gate electrode layer placed on the gate insulating film; an intergate insulating film placed on the floating gate electrode layer and upper surfaces of the device isolation regions; and a control gate electrode layer placed on the intergate insulating film and extending in the row direction.
US07755130B2 Minority carrier sink for a memory cell array comprising nonvolatile semiconductor memory cells
A memory cell array of nonvolatile semiconductor memory cells is specified in which a minority carrier sink is formed within a semiconductor body in the region of the memory cell array, the minority carrier sink being arranged outside a space charge zone structure that forms in the semiconductor body during operation of the semiconductor memory cells, and the minority carrier sink having a shorter minority carrier lifetime in comparison with a semiconductor zone reaching as far as a surface of the semiconductor body.
US07755128B2 Semiconductor device containing crystallographically stabilized doped hafnium zirconium based materials
A semiconductor device, such as a transistor or capacitor is provided. The device includes a substrate, a gate dielectric over the substrate, and a conductive gate dielectric film over the gate dielectric. The gate dielectric includes a doped hafnium zirconium oxide containing one or more dopant elements selected from Group II, Group XIII, silicon, and rare earth elements of the Periodic Table. According to one embodiment, the conductive gate dielectric can contain doped hafnium zirconium nitride or doped hafnium zirconium oxynitride.
US07755127B2 Capacitor in semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the same
A capacitor may include at least one of a polysilicon layer over a semiconductor substrate; a capacitor dielectric layer over a polysilicon layer; an insulating layer over a capacitor dielectric layer; a metal layer connected to a capacitor dielectric layer through a first region of an insulating layer; an upper metal wiring layer connected to a metal layer over an insulating layer; and/or a lower metal wiring line layer connected to a polysilicon layer through a metal contact that passes through a second region of an insulating layer and a capacitor dielectric layer over the insulating layer.
US07755126B2 Memory device configured to have transistor and capacitor
Disclosed is a memory device having a transistor, the transistor including a substrate; a gate electrode formed on the substrate; an insulation layer formed on the gate electrode, the gate electrode and the insulation layer forming a convex portion; a conductive layer formed at a top of the convex portion; a source electrode formed on one side of the convex portion on the substrate; a drain electrode formed on the other side of the convex portion on the substrate where the source electrode is not formed; and a semiconductor layer formed on the insulation layer existing between the conductive layer and the source electrode and between the conductive layer and the drain electrode.
US07755122B2 Complementary metal oxide semiconductor image sensor
A CMOS image sensor including a light-receiving element, at least one transistor, a first dielectric layer, a reflective layer, a second dielectric layer, a protective layer, a material layer, a transparent material layer, an optical filter, and a converging element is described. The light-receiving element and the transistor are disposed respectively inside the light sensing region and the transistor region. The first dielectric layer is disposed on the substrate, covering the transistor and the light-receiving element. The reflective layer is disposed on the first dielectric layer inside the light sensing region. The second dielectric layer is disposed on the first dielectric layer outside of the reflective layer. The material layer is disposed on the first dielectric layer inside of the reflective layer. The optical filter is disposed on the transparent material layer and the converging element is disposed on the optical filter inside the light sensing region.
US07755117B2 Light sensors with infrared suppression
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to light sensors, that primarily respond to visible light while suppressing infrared light. Such sensors are especially useful as ambient light sensors because such sensors can be used to provide a spectral response similar to that of a human eye. Embodiments of the present invention are also directed to methods of providing such light sensors, and methods for using such light sensors.
US07755116B2 Method and apparatus for controlling charge transfer in CMOS sensors with an implant by the transfer gate
An improved CMOS sensor integrated circuit is disclosed, along with methods of making the circuit and computer readable descriptions of the circuit.
US07755113B2 Semiconductor device, semiconductor display device, and manufacturing method of semiconductor device
To achieve high performance of a semiconductor integrated circuit depending on not only a microfabrication technique but also another way. In addition, to achieve low power consumption of a semiconductor integrated circuit. A semiconductor device is provided in which crystal faces and/or crystal axes of single-crystalline semiconductor layers of a first conductive MISFET and a second conductive MISFET are different. The crystal faces and/or crystal axes are arranged so that mobility of carriers flowing in channel length directions in the respective MISFETs is increased. Such a structure can increase mobility of carriers flowing through channels of the MISFETs and high speed operation of a semiconductor integrated circuit can be achieved. Further, low voltage driving becomes possible, and low power consumption can be realized.
US07755111B2 Programmable power management using a nanotube structure
Programmable power management using a nanotube structure is disclosed. In one embodiment, a method includes coupling a nanotube structure of an integrated circuit to a conductive surface when a command is processed, and enabling a group of transistors of the integrated circuit based on the coupling the nanotube structure to the conductive surface. A current may be applied to the nanotube structure to couple the nanotube structure to the conductive surface. The nanotube structure may be formed from a material chosen from one or more of a polymer, carbon, and a composite material. The group of transistors may be enabled during an activation sequence of the integrated circuit. In addition, one or more transistors of the group of transistors may be disengaged from the one or more power sources (e.g., to minimize leakage) when the nanotube structure is decoupled from the conductive surface.
US07755109B2 Bonded semiconductor substrate
Ge/Si and other nonsilicon film heterostructures are formed by hydrogen-induced exfoliation of the Ge film which is wafer bonded to a cheaper substrate, such as Si. A thin, single-crystal layer of Ge is transferred to Si substrate. The bond at the interface of the Ge/Si heterostructures is covalent to ensure good thermal contact, mechanical strength, and to enable the formation of an ohmic contact between the Si substrate and Ge layers. To accomplish this type of bond, hydrophobic wafer bonding is used, because as the invention demonstrates the hydrogen-surface-terminating species that facilitate van der Waals bonding evolves at temperatures above 600° C. into covalent bonding in hydrophobically bound Ge/Si layer transferred systems.
US07755108B2 Nitride-based semiconductor device
A nitride-based semiconductor device includes a diode provided on a semiconductor substrate. The diode contains a first nitride-based semiconductor layer made of non-doped AlXGa1-XN (0≦X<1); a second nitride-based semiconductor layer made of non-doped or n-type AlYGa1-YN (0
US07755107B2 Bipolar/dual FET structure including enhancement and depletion mode FETs with isolated channels
According to an exemplary embodiment, a bipolar/dual FET structure includes a bipolar transistor situated over a substrate. The bipolar/dual FET structure further includes an enhancement-mode FET and a depletion-mode FET situated over the substrate. In the bipolar/dual FET structure, the channel of the enhancement-mode FET is situated above the base of the bipolar transistor and the channel of the depletion-mode FET is situated below the base of the bipolar transistor. The channel of the enhancement-mode FET is isolated from the channel of the depletion-mode FET so as to decouple the enhancement-mode FET from the depletion mode FET.
US07755103B2 Nitride gallium semiconductor substrate and nitride semiconductor epitaxial substrate
A method of fabricating a single crystal gallium nitride substrate the step of cutting an ingot of single crystal gallium nitride along predetermined planes to make one or more single crystal gallium nitride substrates. The ingot of single crystal gallium nitride is grown by vapor phase epitaxy in a direction of a predetermined axis. Each predetermined plane is inclined to the predetermined axis. Each substrate has a mirror polished primary surface. The primary surface has a first area and a second area. The first area is between an edge of the substrate and a line 3 millimeter away from the edge. The first area surrounds the second area. An axis perpendicular to the primary surface forms an off-angle with c-axis of the substrate. The off-angle takes a minimum value at a first position in the first area of the primary surface.
US07755099B2 Light emitting device package
Provided is a light emitting device package. The light emitting device package comprises a base substrate, a frame, and a light emitting device. The base substrate comprises a plurality of electrode pads. The frame is formed of silicon, attached on the base substrate, and has an opening. The light emitting device is electrically connected to the electrode pad in the opening.
US07755098B2 Zinc oxide light emitting diode
Provided is a zinc oxide light emitting diode having improved optical characteristics. The zinc oxide light emitting diode includes an n-type semiconductor layer, a zinc oxide active layer formed on the n-type semiconductor layer, a p-type semiconductor layer formed on the active layer, an anode in electrical contact with the p-type semiconductor layer, a cathode in electrical contact with the n-type semiconductor layer, and a surface plasmon layer disposed between the n-type semiconductor layer and the active layer or between the active layer and the p-type semiconductor layer. Since the surface plasmon layer is formed between the n-type semiconductor layer and the active layer or between the active layer and the p-type semiconductor layer, the light emitting diode is not affected by an increase in resistance due to reduction of the thickness of the p-type semiconductor layer, and has improved optical characteristics due to a resonance phenomenon between the surface plasmon layer and the active layer.
US07755096B2 Single or multi-color high efficiency light emitting diode (LED) by growth over a patterned substrate
A single or multi-color light emitting diode (LED) with high extraction efficiency is comprised of a substrate, a buffer layer formed on the substrate, one or more patterned layers deposited on top of the buffer layer, and one or more active layers formed on or between the patterned layers, for example by Lateral Epitaxial Overgrowth (LEO), and including one or more light emitting species, such as quantum wells. The patterned layers include a patterned, perforated or pierced mask made of insulating, semiconducting or metallic material, and materials filling holes in the mask. The patterned layer acts as an optical confining layer due to a contrast of a refractive index with the active layer and/or as a buried diffraction grating due to variation of a refractive index between the mask and the material filling the holes in the mask.
US07755089B2 Semiconductor device including complementary MOS transistor having a strained Si channel
A semiconductor device includes a semiconductor substrate, p-type first and n-type second semiconductor regions formed on the substrate so as to be insulated with each other, n-channel and p-channel MOS transistors formed on the first and second semiconductor regions, the n-channel transistor including a first pair of source/drain regions formed on the first semiconductor region, a first gate insulator formed in direct contact with the first semiconductor region and formed as an amorphous insulator containing at least La, and a first gate electrode formed on the first gate insulator, the p-channel MOS transistor including a second pair of source/drain regions formed opposite to each other on the second semiconductor region, a second gate insulator including a silicon oxide film and the amorphous insulating film formed thereon on the second semiconductor region, and a second gate electrode formed on the second gate insulator.
US07755085B2 Semiconductor device and method for fabricating same
A semiconductor device has an IC chip with a thickness of equal to or less than 100 μm and includes a semiconductor substrate. A device forming region is within the depth of approximately equal to or less than 5 μm from a surface of the semiconductor substrate, and a total thickness of the semiconductor substrate is from 5 μm to 100 μm. A BMD layer for carrying out gettering of metal impurities is provided immediately under the device forming region. Since a gettering site is provided immediately under the device forming region, in a device or the like of which extreme thinness is required, degradation of device characteristics and reliability due to contamination of metal impurities can be prevented, and stabilize and improve the device yield. The present invention inhibits degradation of device characteristics and reliability caused by contamination of metal impurities, in a device of which lamination of device chips is required or in a device of which extreme chip thinness for an IC card and the like is required, in an attempt to cope with an enlarged capacity of the device.
US07755083B2 Package module with alignment structure and electronic device with the same
A package module with an alignment structure is provided by this invention. The package module comprises a package substrate having a die region and a die disposed thereon. At least one pair of conductive alignment protrusions is disposed in the die region and is separated from each other by the die. A test pad is disposed on the package substrate opposing the die and electrically connected to the pair of conductive alignment protrusions. An electronic device with an alignment structure and an inspection method after mounting is also disclosed.
US07755082B2 Forming self-aligned nano-electrodes
A nano-electrode or nano-wire may be etched centrally to form a gap between nano-electrode portions. The portions may ultimately constitute a single electron transistor. The source and drain formed from the electrode portions are self-aligned with one another. Using spacer technology, the gap between the electrodes may be made very small.
US07755078B2 Silicon single electron device
A silicon integrated circuit device comprising a near intrinsic silicon substrate in which there are one or more ohmic contact regions. An insulating layer lies above the substrate, and on top of the insulating layer is a lower layer of one or more aluminium gates. The surface of each of the lower gates is oxidised to insulate them from an upper aluminium gate that extends over the lower gates.
US07755077B2 Semiconductor memory device
A semiconductor memory device includes the first transistor having first and second source/drain diffusion regions positioned below a second bit line to sandwich the first word line therebetween, and the second source/drain diffusion region positioned between the first and second word lines and connected to a first bit line, a second transistor having second and third source/drain diffusion regions positioned below the second bit line to sandwich the second word line therebetween, a first resistive memory element formed below the second bit line above the first source/drain diffusion region, and having terminals connected to the second bit line and the first source/drain diffusion region, and a second resistive memory element formed below the second bit line above the third source/drain diffusion region, and having terminals connected to the second bit line and the third source/drain diffusion region.
US07755070B2 Arrangement for the suppression of unwanted spectral components in a plasma-based EUV radiation source
The invention is directed to an arrangement for the suppression of unwanted spectral components (‘out-of-band’ radiation, as it is called) in a plasma-based radiation source. The object of the invention is to find a novel possibility for the suppression of unwanted spectral components in radiation exiting from a plasma-based EUV radiation source which permits a simple suppression of out-of-band radiation outside the desired EUV range without requiring costly manufacturing and adjustment of diffraction gratings. This object is met according to the invention in that a filter unit is provided between the plasma and an application location of the EUV radiation, which filter unit has at least one gas curtain comprising at least one rapidly flowing gas whose molecules have no absorption maxima for the desired EUV radiation and intensive absorption maxima for other, unwanted wavelengths that are emitted, at least in the IR region. For the purpose of generating the gas curtain, at least one slit nozzle and an efficient gas sink are arranged laterally opposite one another with respect to an optical axis of the beam bundle in order to limit the gas curtain in a spatially defined manner and to remove it again from the vacuum chambers as completely as possible.
US07755069B2 Ultra-bright pulsed electron beam with low longitudinal emittance
A high-brightness pulsed electron source, which has the potential for many useful applications in electron microscopy, inverse photo-emission, low energy electron scattering experiments, and electron holography has been described. The source makes use of Cs atoms in an atomic beam. The source is cycled beginning with a laser pulse that excites a single Cs atom on average to a band of high-lying Rydberg nP states. The resulting valence electron Rydberg wave packet evolves in a nearly classical Kepler orbit. When the electron reaches apogee, an electric field pulse is applied that ionizes the atom and accelerates the electron away from its parent ion. The collection of electron wave packets thus generated in a series of cycles can occupy a phase volume near the quantum limit and it can possess very high brightness. Each wave packet can exhibit a considerable degree of coherence.
US07755063B2 Superresolution in microlithography and fluorescence microscopy
In scanned optical systems such as confocal laser microscopes wherein a beam of light is focused to a spot in a specimen to excite a fluorescent species or other excitable species in the spot, the effective size of the excitation is made smaller man the size of the spot by providing a beam of light of wavelength adapted to quench the excitation of the excitable species, shaping this second beam into a pattern with a central intensity minimum, and overlapping this central minimum with the central intensity maximum of the focused spot, so that within the spot the intensity of quenching light increases with distance from the center of the spot, thereby preferentially quenching excitation in the peripheral parts of the spot, and thereby reducing the effective size of the excitation and thus improving the resolution of the system. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the central minimum of quenching light is narrowed further by creating the pattern of quenching radiation in the specimen by imaging onto the focal plane a plurality of pairs of sources of quenching light, arrayed at the vertices of a regular, even-sided polygon, the center of which is imaged in the specimen on the central maximum of exciting radiation, and such that the two members of each pair are on opposite vertices of the polygon and emit light mutually coherent and out-of-phase, and the light emitted by different pairs is incoherent with respect to each other.
US07755058B2 Patient treatment using a hybrid imaging system
A system and method for treating a patient using a hybrid imaging system is provided. For example, first imaging data is acquired from a patient using a first imaging device. The patient is transferred on a support to a second imaging device. The support extends between the first imaging device and the second imaging device. Second imaging data is acquired from the patient using the second imaging device. The second imaging device structurally allows for catheter treatment in the patient during acquisition of the second imaging data. The first imaging data and the second imaging data are superimposed or fused. The patient is treated with a catheter as a function of the superimposed or fused data while acquiring the second imaging data.
US07755055B2 Data transmission system for computer tomographs
A computer tomograph comprises a rotating part and a stationary part, and includes a system for transmitting data between the rotating part and the stationary part with a directional radio link. The system comprises an antenna arrangement for directional emission of data signals from the rotating part along a direction of a rotation axis of the rotating part, and for directionally sensitive reception of data signals at a patient's table on the stationary part.
US07755053B2 Radiation detection apparatus
A radiation detection apparatus includes a radiation detection panel having a fluorescent film and photoelectric conversion elements, a support board for supporting the radiation detection panel, and a gel member displaced between the radiation detection panel and support board.
US07755049B2 Tunable microcantilever infrared sensor
An electromagnetic radiation sensor that exhibits improved performance by virtue of an ability to tune its sensitivity is disclosed. The electromagnetic radiation sensor incorporates thermal actuators that act in opposition to one another, but which have a slight difference in responsivity. A temperature controller is used to tune the sensitivity of the electromagnetic radiation sensor by controlling the temperature of the substrate on which the sensor is formed.
US07755042B1 Auger electron spectrometer with applied magnetic field at target surface
A scanning electron beam apparatus with an Auger spectrometer. The apparatus includes at least an electron column for generating a primary electron beam, a magnetic objective lens configured to focus the primary electron beam onto a surface of a target substrate, and a spectrometer configured to detect Auger electrons emitted from the surface of the target substrate. The magnetic objective lens applies a magnetic field strength greater than 10 Gauss and less than 50 Gauss at the surface of the target substrate. Other embodiments, aspects and features are also disclosed.
US07755041B2 Optical and laser differential absorption remote detection of TATP peroxide based explosives
A triacetone triperoxide cloud associated with a triacetone triperoxide explosive attached to a hard target is remotely detected by operating differential-absorption lidar lasers to transmit a laser beam toward the hard target at differing wavelengths. A backscattered laser beam reflected from the lidar target (hard target, person, aerosols, clouds, buildings) is detected because a cloud of triacetone triperoxide in front of the lidar target and between the lidar target and the differential-absorption lidar system produces a differential-absorption signal having characteristics that identify the triacetone triperoxide. In a second embodiment, a triacetone triperoxide cloud that is absorbing optical radiation from its ambient environment and which is attached to a hard target is detected from a location remote from the triacetone triperoxide explosive by detecting an optical radiation absorption signature characterized by triacetone triperoxide absorption lines.
US07755038B2 Nanostructured thin films and their uses
The present invention generally discloses the use of a nanostructured non-silicon thin film (such as an alumina or aluminum thin film) on a supporting substrate which is subsequently coated with an active layer of a material such as silicon or tungsten. The base, underlying non-silicon material generates enhanced surface area while the active layer assists in incorporating and transferring energy to one or more analytes adsorbed on the active layer when irradiated with a laser during laser desorption of the analyte(s). The present invention provides substrate surfaces that can be produced by relatively straightforward and inexpensive manufacturing processes and which can be used for a variety of applications such as mass spectrometry, hydrophobic or hydrophilic coatings, medical device applications, electronics, catalysis, protection, data storage, optics, and sensors.
US07755036B2 Instrument and method for tandem time-of-flight mass spectrometry
A novel instrument and method for TOF/TOF mass spectrometry is offered. A spiral trajectory time-of-flight mass spectrometer satisfies the spatial focusing conditions for the direction of flight and a direction orthogonal to the direction of flight whenever ions make a turn in the spiral trajectory. An ion gate for selecting precursor ions is placed in the spiral trajectory of the spiral trajectory time-of-flight mass spectrometer. Electric sectors are placed downstream of the ion gate.
US07755034B2 Ion trap and a method for dissociating ions in an ion trap
A quadrupole ion trap includes a switch 3 for switching a trapping voltage between discrete voltage levels VH, VL. This creates a digital trapping field for trapping precursor ions and product ions in a trapping region of the ion trap. A gating voltage is applied to a gate electrode 12 to control injection of source electrons into the ion trap. Application of the gating voltage is synchronised with the switching so that electrons are injected into the trapping region while the trapping voltage is at a selected one of the voltage levels and can reach the trapping region with a kinetic energy suitable for electron capture dissociation to take place.
US07755032B2 Measuring inflow performance with a neutron logging tool
A method for evaluating an inflow performance for completed intervals in a well includes pulsing neutrons into a fluid flow in the wellbore, detecting gamma rays from decays of nitrogen-16 in the well fluid flow with a first gamma ray detector, determining an in situ water velocity from the measurement of the gamma ray decays, and estimating the inflow performance of one or more competed intervals in the well from data that includes the in situ water velocity.
US07755027B2 Secure transmission cable having windings continuously laid in opposite directions
The invention consists of a secure data transmission cable for electronically transmitting secure data between remote locations in an exposed condition. The data transmission cable comprises a tubular outer protective layer, an inner core disposed within the outer protective layer, a data transmission line carried within the inner core for transmitting secure data between the remote locations, and a fiber optic sensor line included in the outer protective layer for detecting unauthorized activity relative to the transmission line. The fiber optic data transmission line comprises a plurality of optical fibers for transmitting data between remote locations and for detecting unauthorized activity relative to the transmission line. A protective casing surrounds the data transmission line for protecting the fiber optic data transmission line from contacting the outer protective layer. An outer protective casing braided around the core in which the sensor line is enclosed provides strength to the cable.
US07755026B2 Generating signals representative of sensed light that is associated with writing being done by a user
An array of sensitive pixel elements is configured to generate signals representative of sensed light that is associated with writing being done by a user, and an optical system concentrates light from a light source across a section of the array of sensitive pixel elements, the signals being useful to compute a subpixel measurement of a position of the light source.
US07755025B2 Detecting and thwarting content signals originating from theatrical performances
A system and method of detecting and thwarting the use of unauthorized imaging systems at theatrical performances. Sensors are deployed at a theatrical event to detect a focusing signal and/or the RF signal of an unauthorized imaging device. De-focusing signals are used to disrupt the auto focus system of imaging devices that do not use IR focusing systems. A thwarting signal comprising invisible light frequencies may be combined to produce a thwarting signal that is received by the CCD of an imaging device as white light thereby rendering the recorded image unusable. Emission signatures of imaging devices are stored in a datastore and distributed to users of thwarting systems via a network. Emission signatures are associated with thwarting signals to allow detection and thwarting systems to respond quickly to the use of an unauthorized imaging device.
US07755019B1 Microprocessor based automatically dimmable eye protection device with interruption prevention
An auto darkening eye protection device comprising a shutter assembly and a control circuit in electrical communication with the shutter assembly. The shutter assembly is adjustable between a clear state and a dark state. The control circuit comprises a microcontroller programmed to store a plurality of memory presets including at least one setting corresponding to the operation of the shutter assembly. At least two of the plurality of memory presets are individually configured for a specific type of welding. In another embodiment, an auto darkening eye protection device is provided, the device comprising a shutter assembly and a control circuit in electrical communication with the shutter assembly. The shutter assembly is adjustable between a clear state and a dark state. The control circuit comprises a microcontroller programmed to monitor and store at least one parameter corresponding to the operation of the auto darkening eye protection device. In another embodiment, an auto darkening eye protection device is provided, the device comprising a shutter assembly, a control circuit in electrical communication with the shutter assembly, and a communication device in electrical communication with the control circuit. The shutter assembly is adjustable between a clear state and a dark state. The control circuit comprises a microcontroller. The communication device enables communication between the control circuit and a computer via the communication device.
US07755015B2 Real-time multiplicity counter
A neutron multi-detector array feeds pulses in parallel to individual inputs that are tied to individual bits in a digital word. Data is collected by loading a word at the individual bit level in parallel. The word is read at regular intervals, all bits simultaneously, to minimize latency. The electronics then pass the word to a number of storage locations for subsequent processing, thereby removing the front-end problem of pulse pileup.
US07755014B2 Optical pickup device
An optical pickup device is equipped with a diffraction element (8) that includes liquid crystal, two transparent electrodes sandwiching the liquid crystal, and a liquid crystal control portion (21) with electrodes connected electrically to the transparent electrode for controlling a voltage to be applied between the two transparent electrodes. The diffraction element (8) is provided with two types of diffraction areas (19) and (20). Each of the diffraction areas (19) and (20) generate predetermined diffracted light only from one of different wavelengths of light beams. The transparent electrodes of the diffraction areas (19) and (20) that are patterned are connected electrically to different electrodes (22c) and (22a), respectively.
US07754998B2 Focus adjuster for laser beam machine
The invention provides a focus adjuster for laser beam machine which adjusts focus by detecting reflected light of a laser beam in a laser beam machine.A laser beam outputted from a laser oscillator device 550 is reflected by a mirror 570 via an output mirror 560 and introduced into a laser machining tool. The laser beam collected by a machining lens 62 is reflected by a reflector plate M1 and sensed by a reflection detector 580. Automatic focus adjustment is achieved by sensing output of the reflected light as well as changes in focal position due to contamination of the machining lens 62.
US07754996B2 Method and apparatus for alignment of components of a plasma arc torch
A coolant tube and electrode are adapted to mate with each other to align the tube relative to the electrode during operation of the torch. Improved alignment ensures an adequate flow of coolant along an interior surface of the electrode. In one aspect, an elongated body of the coolant tube has a surface adapted to mate with the electrode. In another aspect, an elongated body of the electrode has a surface adapted to mate with the coolant tube. The surfaces of the tube and electrode may, for example, be flanges, tapered surfaces, contours, or steps.
US07754995B2 Plasma processing apparatus and plasma processing method
A plasma processing apparatus comprising at least a plasma processing chamber for plasma-processing an object; object-holding means for disposing the object in the plasma processing chamber; and plasma-generating means for generating a plasma in the plasma processing chamber. The inner wall of the plasma processing chamber is at least partially covered with an oxide film based on a pre-treating plasma. A plasma processing apparatus and a plasma processing method effectively prevent the spluttering and the etching of the inner wall of the plasma processing chamber while suppressing contamination to the object.
US07754992B2 High current switch and method of operation
An electrical switch which includes an insulative housing having a wall defining an axial bore therein, a first electrical contact disposed in the housing bore and a second electrical contact movably disposed in the housing bore between an open position and a closed position. When the contacts are in their open position, the second electrical contact is spaced apart from the first electrical contact and when the contacts are in their closed position, the second electrical contact is in electrical contact with the first electrical contact. The switch includes features to enhance safety and operation by reducing the possibility of arcing or flashover before and during the switching operation and to provide of visual indication of the state of the switch.
US07754991B2 Medium-voltage or high voltage electrical switchgear
This electrical switchgear has an interrupting chamber enclosing an interrupting gas (G) substantially devoid of SF6 and of CF4, and a first arcing contact (10) and a second arcing contact (18), the two arcing contacts moving causes an electric arc (26) to strike, while at least one irradiation wall (22) is provided that is suitable for being reached by the electric arc. At least two component materials that are part of at least one element selected from the interrupting gas, the first and second arcing contacts, and the or each irradiation wall, are suitable for decomposing under the effect of the electric arc, so as to form decomposed species (e1, e2) suitable for combining in the interrupting chamber, in order to form at least one new gaseous species (G1), before the electric arc is extinguished, the dielectric properties of said at least one new gaseous species being superior to the dielectric properties of said interrupting gas (G).
US07754988B2 Keypad module for portable electronic devices
A keypad module including at least one key (30) is described. The key (30) includes a keycap (32), a base (34), a supporting member (36), a resisting member (40) and a dome (42). The base includes a pressed portion (341) and a carrier portion (342) connected to the pressed portion. The keycap is arranged on the pressed portion. The supporting member is located on the carrier portion to support the keycap. The resisting member is located between the pressed portion and the dome to press the dome into a position electrically connected to a circuit board (44).
US07754985B2 Electronic switch assembly with configurable functionality
An electrical switch assembly comprises a generally planar substrate. A functional switch and at least one identification switch are mounted to the substrate. A switch body supports a switch actuator which is movable between multiple positions. An arrangement of one or more projecting members extends from the switch body. The switch body is mounted on or to the substrate such that the switch actuator operatively engages the functional switch, and the arrangement of projecting members operatively engages at least one of the identification switches to create a unique electronic identifier for the electrical switch assembly.
US07754982B2 Locking system for electronic device housing
A locking system for an electronic device housing comprises a top plate, a movable cover pivotal about a first edge of the top plate, and a lateral plate connected to a second edge of the top plate which is perpendicular to the first edge. The top plate defines an opening near the second edge thereof. The locking system comprises a flexible lock-receiving portion, an engaging portion, a groove, and a disengaging member. The flexible lock-receiving portion protrudes from the top plate within the opening and has a protrusion extending downwardly. The engaging portion is formed on a surface of the movable cover and faces the opening. The groove is defined on the lateral plate corresponding to the opening. The disengaging member is inside the groove and protrudes to engage the protrusion.
US07754979B2 Solder-bearing wafer for use in soldering operations
According to one embodiment, an electrical connector for electrical connection to a second electronic device having at least one second contact includes a substrate having a first surface and an opposing second surface, with a recess being formed in the first surface. The connect also has a first contact securely coupled to the substrate and having a first portion extending at least partially into the recess and a mass of solder material retainingly held in the recess such that the first portion of the first contact is in contact with the solder material. The first surface is for placement against the second electronic device such that the first and second contacts are aligned and whereupon heating of the mass of solder material, the first and second contacts are securely attached to one another and form an electrical pathway therebetween.
US07754970B2 High frequency electronic part
A high frequency electronic part comprising a conductor wiring for transmitting an electric signal of 100 MHz to 100 GHz, and an insulation layer composed of a void containing thermoplastic resin film orientated in at least one direction by stretching. The void containing thermoplastic resin film contains voids in the range between 3% and 45% by volume, the number of voids in a thickness direction of the film is 5 or more, and a ratio of the number of voids to film thickness defined by the following equation is in the range between 0.1 and 10 voids/μm:ratio of the number of voids to film thickness (voids/μm)=the number of voids (voids) in film thickness direction/film thickness (μm).
US07754967B2 Electrical wiring system
A system for accessing an electrical wiring network from opposing sides of a wall. The wall includes at least one structural support and a wall surface. The system includes an electrical box having a perimeter wall and two open sides. The open sides are located at opposing ends of the perimeter wall, thereby defining a passageway through the electrical box. Additionally, the system includes a pair of frames coupled to the electrical box at the open sides, and one or more electrical outlets coupled to each frame. Each outlet includes a body that includes a first connector matable with a second connector. The second connector includes a plurality of integrally formed leads having distal ends that are directly connectable to an electrical power supply distribution network such that when the second connector is mated with the first connector electrical power can be supplied to each outlet.
US07754966B2 Umbilical
An umbilical for transfer of fluids and electric current/signals between the sea surface and equipment deployed on the sea bed, in particular in deep waters, is disclosed. The umbilical comprises a number of pipes (4, 4′) and electric conductors/wires (6, 6′) collected in a bundle, a filler material (10, 2, 3, 3′) lying at least partly around and between the pipes (4, 4′) and the conductors/wires (6, 6′), and a protective sheath (1) enclosing the pipes, conductors/wires and filler material. The load carrying elements (7) of the umbilical are light weighted rods (7′) of composite material that can either be collected in bundles or appear individually or in a combination thereof.
US07754965B2 Flashover protection device and method: wet/dry glow-based streamer inhibitor
A device and method for reducing the risk of a streamer initiated flashover across a high voltage insulator under normal operating voltages. The device includes a support structure adapted to be grounded and mounted in proximity to the high voltage insulator; and space charge producing conductors wound around the support structure and forming coils for producing space charge in a proximity of an insulator to be protected, and inhibiting a formation of positive streamers, each conductor having a diameter not exceeding 0.1 mm for reducing a corona inception voltage of the support structure upon which each conductor is wound, in both dry and wet conditions.
US07754961B1 Strum input for a video game controller
A video game controller includes: a string instrument-shaped housing comprising a body portion and a neck portion, said body portion including a opening; a console interface for coupling with a game console; and a strum interface coupled to the console interface. The strum interface includes: a pin having a central portion and distal end portions; a pin support structure for supporting the distal end portions of the pin; a strum bar comprising a body portion rotatably coupled to the central portion of the pin and a flange portion protruding from the opening in the housing; a compressible liner provided between at least a portion of the strum bar and the pin; an upper button positioned adjacent the strum bar so as to be depressed when the strum bar is rotated in a first direction; and a lower button positioned adjacent the strum bar so as to be depressed when the strum bar is rotated in a second direction.
US07754959B2 System and method of automatically creating an emotional controlled soundtrack
There is provided herein a system and method for enabling a user of digital video editing software to automatically create an emotionally controlled soundtrack that is matched in overall emotion or mood to the scenes in the underlying video work. In the preferred arrangement, the user will be able to control the generation of the soundtrack by positioning emotion tags in the video work that correspond to the general mood of each scene. The subsequent soundtrack generation step will utilize these tags to prepare a musical accompaniment to the video work that generally matches its on-screen activities.
US07754958B2 Sound analysis apparatus and program
A sound analysis apparatus stores sound source structure data defining a constraint on one or more of sounds that can be simultaneously generated by a sound source of an input audio signal. A form estimation part selects fundamental frequencies of one or more of sounds likely to be contained in the input audio signal with peaked weights from various fundamental frequencies during sequential updating and optimizing of weights of tone models corresponding to the various fundamental frequencies, so that the sounds of the selected fundamental frequencies satisfy the sound source structure data, and creates form data specifying the selected fundamental frequencies. A previous distribution imparting part imparts a previous distribution to the weights of the tone models corresponding to the various fundamental frequencies so as to emphasize weights corresponding to the fundamental frequencies specified by the form data created by the form estimation part.
US07754956B2 Programmable system to integrate generated signals with signals from a musical instrument
A programmable system for integrating signals in a musical instrument including a programmable device that is configured to create re-callable scenes, where the scenes are representations of audio signals generated by signal devices. The programmable system also includes a plurality of input/output modules to couple the signal devices and the musical instrument to the programmable device. Also included in the programmable system is a memory to store the scenes and a switch to change the combination of audio signals that go in and out of the signal path of the musical instrument by switching scenes.
US07754950B2 Travel string instrument and method of making same
A string instrument comprising a neck extension primary member, having a neck extension securement end and a tuning assembly support head end, an extension top and a length extending between the ends, is disclosed. The neck extension primary member defines a neck extension cutaway volume configured to receive a hinge butt. The neck extension cutaway volume extends to be open at the neck extension securement end and open at the top of the neck extension primary member. A neck base primary member has a neck base securement end, a base top and an opposite end. The neck base primary member is made to define a neck base cutaway volume configured to receive a hinge butt. The neck base cutaway volume extends to be open at the neck base securement end and open at the top of the neck base primary member. A hinge has a first hinge butt positioned in the neck extension cutaway volume and a second hinge butt positioned in the neck base cutaway volume. A neck fretboard portion is secured over the open top of the neck extension cutaway volume and bears against the first hinge butt. A base cover is secured over the open top of the neck base cutaway volume and bears against the second hinge butt. A string instrument main body is secured to the neck base primary member.
US07754946B2 Stem-regulated, plant defense promoter and uses thereof in tissue-specific expression in monocots
The invention is directed to isolated promoters from stem-regulated, defense-inducible genes, such as JAS promoters. The promoters are useful in expression cassettes and expression vectors for the transformation of plants. Particularly, the invention provides transgenic plants of rice and sugarcane that have been modified such that expression of a heterologous coding sequence is directed by an JAS promoter and is limited to stem tissues or may be upregulated by the presence of a defense-inducing agent. The invention also discloses methods for producing the expression vectors and transgenic plants.
US07754944B2 Polynucleotide constructs
Synthetic modular polynucleotide constructs are useful for gene expression in plants, methods for making and using such constructs, and plants transformed with such constructs. The constructs comprise unique restriction sites for each modular element and may further comprise polynucleotide identifier sequences.
US07754941B2 Animal models for demyelination disorders
This invention is in the field of neurology. Specifically, the invention relates to the discovery and characterization of molecular components that play a role in neuronal demyelination or remyelination. In addition, the invention relates to the generation of an animal model that exhibits hypomyelination. The compositions and methods embodied in the present invention are particularly useful for drug screening and/or treatment of demyelination disorders.
US07754937B2 Wound packing material for use with suction
A wound packing for use with suction is provided. The wound packing comprises a plurality of nonabsorbent synthetic polymeric fibers coupled together to form a nonabsorbent material suitable for placement in the wound of a mammal. A method for treating the wound in a mammal using the disclosed wound packing is also provided.
US07754936B2 Wound treatment apparatus employing reduced pressure
A method for stimulating new tissue growth is provided in which a limb is introduced into an interior portion of an outer cover. A porous component is applied to at least a portion of the limb within the outer cover. An opening through which the limb was introduced is sealed, and a negative pressure is applied to the interior portion to stimulate new tissue growth.
US07754934B2 Process for producing ethylene and propylene
A process for efficiently and stably producing ethylene and propylene which comprises bringing a hydrocarbon feedstock comprising at least one C4-12 olefin into contact with a zeolite-containing catalyst to obtain a reaction mixture containing ethylene and propylene, separating the reaction mixture into a fraction comprising ingredients ranging from hydrogen to C3 hydrocarbons and a fraction comprising C4 and higher hydrocarbons, and recycling the C4 and higher hydrocarbons as they are to a reactor.
US07754932B2 Monitoring and control of processes for making 1-hexene
Processes, methods and apparatus relating to olefin oligomerization include the use of Raman spectrometry to monitor the concentration of reactants, products or other chemical components. One or more oligomerization conditions are adjusted in response to those monitored concentrations. The present processes, methods and apparatus are capable of monitoring olefin oligomerization with the use of low resolution Raman spectrometry equipment, even where there is some degree of overlap between Raman spectral peaks. Apparatus for olefin oligomerization reactions have at least one Raman probe located in the oligomerization equipment, the Raman probe providing an output signal, and Raman spectrometry equipment located outside the oligomerization equipment and operatively connected to at least one Raman probe.
US07754926B2 Production process of 3-alkoxy-1-propanols, and 3-alkoxy-1-propanols obtained by the production process
The present invention reacts an allyl alcohol with an alcohol compound in the presence of a catalyst containing at least one element selected from the group consisting of elements of the group III, lanthanoid elements and actinoid elements of the Periodic Table, as depicted in the following reaction and provides a method for efficiently producing 3-alkoxy-1-propanol in a single step using an alcohol as a starting material.
US07754925B2 Method for the hydrogenation of mass fluxes containing aldehyde
The present application relates to a process for reacting a composition I comprising at least one aldehyde with hydrogen in the presence of a catalyst in at least one main reactor and at least one postreactor, wherein at least 50% of the fresh hydrogen fed to the reaction system is fed into at least one postreactor. In a preferred embodiment, composition I comprises at least one further organic compound.
US07754924B2 Process for the monosulfonation of aromatic phosphines, and zwitterionic product derived therefrom
A method of preparing an aromatic phosphine monosulfonate in zwitterionic form, such as dicyclohexylphenylphosphine monosulfonate zwitterion, involving contacting an aromatic phosphine with a sulfonating agent to provide a reaction mixture containing aromatic phosphine monosulfonate in acid form and unconverted sulfonating agent; quenching or removing substantially all of the unconverted sulfonating agent; partially neutralizing the aromatic phosphine monosulfonate in acid form to phase separate aromatic phosphine monosulfonate in zwitterionic form as a solid or neat liquid layer; and collecting the zwitterion as a solid or neat liquid. The zwitterion may be neutralized to form the corresponding aromatic phosphine monosulfonate metal salt, which is useful in preparing catalysts for hydroformylation processes.
US07754919B2 Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors
The present invention provides for compounds useful for treating an HIV-1 infection, or preventing an HIV-1 infection, or treating AIDS or ARC. The compounds of the invention are of formula I wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5 and X are as herein defined. Also disclosed in the present invention are methods of treating an HIV infection with compounds defined herein and pharmaceutical compositions containing said compounds.
US07754917B2 Perfluoroalkyl substituted acrylate monomers and polymers thereof
Fluoroalkyl amidoalkyl alcohols of the formula are disclosed and their corresponding (meth)acrylate esters. These fluoroalkyl amidoalkyl (meth)acrylate monomers can be copolymerized with a wide variety of conventional ethylenically unsaturated monomers. The resulting copolymers are useful as water, oil- and grease-proofing agents for paper, textiles and hard surfaces such as masonry and wood.
US07754903B2 Curable polycyclic compounds and process for the production thereof
The present invention discloses a curable polycyclic compound represented by the following formula (1): {wherein A is a di- to hexa-valent group derived from a polycyclic hydrocarbon compound; R1 is an alkyl group of 1 to 4 carbon atoms, a perfluoroalkyl group of 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or a fluorine atom; n is an integer of 0 to 2; m is an integer of 2 to 4; and Y is a group represented by the following formula (2) or (3): (wherein R2, R3, R5 and R6 are each independently a hydrogen atom, a fluorine atom or an alkyl group of 1 to 4 carbon atoms; R4 is a methyl group or an ethyl group; and p and q are each independently an integer of 0 to 4)}.
US07754898B2 Method of enantioselective nucleophilic addition reaction of enamide to imine and synthesis method of α-amino-γ-keto acid ester
An asymmetric synthesis of amino acid compound that is useful as a starting material or synthetic intermediate for production of medicinal products, agrichemicals, perfumes, functional polymers, etc. There is provided a method of enanthio-selective nucleophilic addition reaction to imine compound being a method of nucleophilic addition reaction of enamide compound accompanied by amino formation to imino group (—CH═N—) of imine compound, characterized in that the reaction is performed in the presence of a chiral copper catalyst. Further, there is provided a novel method of synthesizing an amino acid compound, etc., to which the above is applied.
US07754894B2 Crystalline sulfonamide-containing indole compound and process for preparing the same
A crystalline form of N-(3-cyano-4-methyl-1H-indol-7-yl)-3-cyanobenzenesulfonamide having a diffraction peak at a diffraction angle (2θ±0.2°) of 19.1° in a powder X-ray diffraction.
US07754891B2 5,5′-Position linked 1,1′-biphenyl axial chiral ligand and method for preparing the same
The present invention relates to a 5,5′-position linked 1,1′-biphenyl axis chiral ligand in chemical industry field. The present invention incorporates both the central chirality of oxazoline and the axial chirality of diphenyls. Such ligand can be used in various asymmetric reactions catalyzed by metal with high reactivity and stereoselectivity, and thus represents a good application outlook. The ligand of the present invention has the formula of: wherein: n=5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 or 12; R1=hydrogen, alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted benzyl; R2=hydrogen, alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted benzyl; R3=hydrogen, alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted benzyl; R4=hydrogen, alkyl, substituted or unsubstituted aryl, substituted or unsubstituted benzyl.
US07754887B2 Process for production of sulfoxide derivatives or salts thereof in the amorphous state
Process for producing sulfoxide derivatives or salts thereof in the amorphous state, characterized by heat-drying solvated crystals of a sulfoxide derivative or a salt thereof represented by the general formula (I): wherein R1 represents a hydrogen atom, a methoxy group, or a difluoromethoxy group; R2 represents a methyl group or a methoxy group; R3 represents a 3-methoxypropoxy group, a methoxy group, or a 2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy group; R4 represents a hydrogen atom or a methoxy group; and B represents a hydrogen atom, an alkali metal or ½ alkaline earth metal.
US07754886B2 N-acylsulfonamide apoptosis promoters
N-Benzoyl arylsulfonamides having the formula are BCL-Xl inhibitors and are useful for promoting apoptosis. Also disclosed are BCL-Xl inhibiting compositions and methods of promoting apoptosis in a mammal.
US07754885B2 Tubulysins, method for producing the same and tubulysin preparations
The invention relates to a compound of the following general formula (tubulysin) having the following meanings for R, R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9, R10, R11, S, T, U, V, W, X, Y and Z: R=H, alkyl, aryl, OR1, NR1R2 or R1=H, C1-6alkyl or aryl R2=H, C1-6alkyl or aryl S=H, Hal, NO2 or NHR3 U=H, Hal, NO2 or NHR3 R3=H, HCO or C1-4alkyl-CO T=H or OR4 R4=H, C1-4alkyl, aryl, COR5, P(O)(OR6)2 or SO3R6 R5=C1-6alkyl, alkenyl, aryl or heteroaryl R6=H, alkyl or a metal ion V=H, OR7, Hal or (for W=O) O R7=H, C1-4alkyl or COR8 R5=C1-4alkyl, alkenyl or aryl W=H or C1-4alkyl or (for V=O) O X=H, C1-4alkyl, alkenyl or CH2OR9 R9=H, C1-4alkyl, alkenyl, aryl or COR10 R10=C1-6alkyl, alkenyl, aryl or heteroaryl Y=(for Z=CH3 or COR11) free electron pair or (for Z=CH3)O R11=C1-4alkyl, CF3 or aryl and/or Z=(for Y=O or free electron pair) CH3 or (for Y=free electron pair) COR11.
US07754880B2 Uracils having a herbicidal activity
New uracils are described, having general formula (I) and their use as herbicides.
US07754878B2 Free-radical functionalized polysaccharides
Polysaccharides are functionalized using a source of free radicals which forms stable radicals on the polysaccharides structure and wherein the formed radicals reacts with a functionalized unsaturated compound. The method comprises two steps: a first step, wherein the free radical on the polysaccharides chain is formed, and a second step, wherein said radical reacts with the unsaturated compound in the absence of the radical source.
US07754874B2 Neoglycorandomization and digitoxin analogs
The present invention provides methods of producing libraries of compounds with enhanced desirable properties and diminished side effects as well as the compounds produced by the methods. In preferred embodiments, methods of the present invention use a universal chemical glycosylation method that employs reducing sugars and requires no protection or activation. In a preferred embodiment, the invention provides a library of neoglycoside digitoxin analogs that includes compounds with significantly enhanced cytotoxic potency toward human cancer cells and tumor-specificity, but are less potent Na+/K+-ATPase inhibitors in a human cell line than digitoxin.
US07754870B2 Method and compositions for detecting Helicobacter pylori
Provided are an oligonucleotide primer set for amplifying at least one target sequence of the cagA gene of Helicobacter pylori, a method of detecting Helicobacter pylori using the primer set, and a kit for detecting Helicobacter pylori, including the primer set.
US07754866B2 Non-endogenous, constitutively activated human serotonin receptors and small molecule modulators thereof
Disclosed herein are non-endogenous, constitutively activated forms of the human 5-HT2A and human 5-HT2C receptors and uses of such receptors to screen candidate compounds. Further disclosed herein are candidate compounds identified by the screening method which act at the 5HT2A receptors. Yet further disclosed is a new class of compounds which act at the 5HT2A receptors.
US07754861B2 Method for purifying proteins
The present invention provides methods and kits for purifying a target protein group. The method comprises the steps of contacting a sample comprising at least 95% of the target protein group and at most 5% of contaminating proteins with a library of binding moieties having different binding moieties, binding the contaminating proteins and a minority of the target protein group to the library of binding moieties, separating the unbound target protein group from the proteins bound to the library of binding moieties and collecting the unbound target protein. The collected target protein is more pure than the target protein group in the sample.
US07754859B2 Targeted binding agents directed to PDGFR-alpha and uses thereof
Targeted binding agents directed to the antigen PDGFR-alpha and uses of such agents are disclosed herein. More specifically the invention relates to fully human monoclonal antibodies directed to the antigen PDGFR-alpha and uses of these antibodies. Aspects of the invention also relate to hybridomas or other cell lines expressing such antibodies. The described targeted binding agents and antibodies are useful as diagnostics and for the treatment of diseases associated with the activity and/or overexpression of PDGFR-alpha.
US07754856B2 Human sodium-dependent bile acid transporter proteins
A novel sodium-dependent bile acid transporter protein, an Na+/H+ exchange transporter protein, a P-type ATPase protein and a vanilloid receptor protein, and polynucleotides encoding these proteins are useful in screening preventives/remedies for hyperlipemia, arteriosclerosis, genital diseases or digestive diseases; respiratory diseases, renal diseases or digestive diseases; pancreatic diseases, central nerve diseases, digestive diseases or respiratory diseases; inflammatory diseases, rheumatoid diseases or diabetic neurosis; etc.
US07754854B2 Methods for arbitrary peptide synthesis
Methods, apparatus, systems, computer programs and computing devices related to biologically assembling and/or synthesizing peptides and/or proteins are disclosed.
US07754839B2 Quasi-living metal catalyst for ethylene homo-polymerization and co-polymerization with 5-norbornen -2-yl acetate
Methods and compositions for the generation of quasi-living catalysts for homo-polymerization of olefins such as ethylene, α-olefins and functionalized olefins and for the co-polymerization of olefins with functionalized monomers is disclosed. A process for producing these homo- and co-polymers is also disclosed. A polymeric material with enhanced hydrophilic properties, generated by the co-polymerization of ethylene with 5-norbornen-2-yl acetate, is also disclosed.
US07754834B2 Bulk density promoting agents in a gas-phase polymerization process to achieve a bulk particle density
Disclosed herein is a gas phase polymerization process including the steps of passing a recycle stream through a fluidized bed in a gas phase fluidized bed reactor in the presence of a bulk density promoting agent, wherein the bulk density promoting agent is of a saturated hydrocarbon and/or a non-polymerizable unsaturated hydrocarbon having 6 or more carbon atoms; polymerizing at least one alpha-olefin monomer in the presence of a catalyst to produce an alpha-olefin polymer; and controlling an amount of the bulk density promoting agent in the reactor such that a bulk density of the alpha-olefin polymer discharged from the reactor is greater than or equal to about 480 kg/m3.
US07754823B2 Vegetable based dioxanone derivatives, synthesis and uses thereof
The present invention is directed to carboxylic acid and ester moieties that are attached to a carbon chain that is between 2 and 24 carbons in length wherein, the chain contains at least one dioxanone ring system, said dioxanone being formed from two adjacent carbons in the chain and/or at least one carbon in the chain is substituted with a pendant dioxanone ring system. In preferred embodiments, the carbon chain is a fatty acid residue. The carbons of said chain can be optionally substituted, saturated or unsaturated. When two or more said ester moieties are present, the invention is directed to a polyester such as a triglyceride, that contains multiple carbon chains wherein each chain is independently derivatized such that the triglyceride contains at least one dioxanone ring system, said dioxanone being formed from two adjacent carbons in at least one of said chains. The present invention is also directed to a method of preparing a dioxanone containing composition or fatty acid derivative. The present invention is also directed to coating formulations and polymers that utilize a dioxanone containing composition or fatty acid derivative, and methods of making such coatings and polymers.
US07754818B2 Gap fill materials and bottom anti-reflective coatings comprising hyperbranched polymers
New anti-reflective or fill compositions having improved flow properties are provided. The compositions comprise a dendritic polymer dispersed or dissolved in a solvent system, and preferably a light attenuating compound, a crosslinking agent, and a catalyst. The inventive compositions can be used to protect contact or via holes from degradation during subsequent etching in the dual damascene process. The inventive compositions can also be applied to substrates (e.g., silicon wafers) to form anti-reflective coating layers having high etch rates which minimize or prevent reflection during subsequent photoresist exposure and developing.
US07754815B2 Process for producing thermoplastic elastomer composition, and air-bag cover
A process for producing a thermoplastic elastomer composition comprising the step of crosslinking dynamically at least the following components (A) to (C) in the presence of a crosslinking agent: (A) 10 to 50% by weight of an oil-extended ethylene-α-olefin-non-conjugated diene copolymer rubber having a density of 850 to 900 kg/m3, and a Mooney viscosity (ML1+4 100° C.) of 30 to 150, (B) 20 to 60% by weight of an ethylene-α-olefin copolymer having a density of 850 to 910 kg/m3, and a melt flow rate of 0.05 to 80 g/10 minutes measured at 230° C. under a load of 21.18 N, and (C) 20 to 60% by weight of a propylene resin, the total amount of the components (A) to (C) being 100% by weight; and an air-bag cover comprising a thermoplastic elastomer composition produced according to said process.
US07754811B2 NC-PU dispersions with accelerated drying
The invention relates to hybrid dispersions comprising nitrocellulose-polyurethanepolyurea particles (NC-PU dispersions) with accelerated drying behavior as compared with the known systems, and also to their use in coating materials.
US07754809B2 Solvent free polyurethane dispersions for hard surface coatings
The invention relates to polyurethane dispersions which develop high hardness and form coating films at room temperature. The dispersions are prepared from prepolymers containing prepolymers containing a polyol or polyol blend having specified equivalent weight and polyisocyanate to polyol molar ratio.
US07754807B2 Soluble material and process for three-dimensional modeling
The present invention is a composition for making a three-dimensional object. The composition comprises a plasticizer and a base polymer, where the base polymer comprises a carboxylic acid, where the composition is soluble in an alkaline solution.
US07754806B2 Biological substance related article and method of manufacturing the same, and biological substance adsorption preventive coating composition and method of using the same
A biological substance related article includes a coating formed by causing a biological substance adsorption preventive coating composition to come in contact with a surface of the biological substance related article and heating the composition, the biological substance adsorption preventive coating composition including: (A) a copolymer obtained by copolymerizing raw material monomers including a monomer A1 shown by the following general formula (1) and an active hydrogen group-containing monomer A2; (B) a crosslinking agent reactive with an active hydrogen group; and (C) a solvent. CH2═CR3COOR1OR2  (1) (R1 represents an alkylene group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, R2 represents an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and R3 represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group).
US07754803B2 Resin composition
A resin composition, substrate material, sheet, laminated board, resin-bearing copper foil, copper-clad laminate, TAB tape, printed circuit board, prepreg and adhesive sheet are provided which exhibit improved physical properties, dimensional stability, heat resistance and flame retardance, particularly high-temperature physical properties. A resin composition containing 100 parts by weight of a thermoplastic resin and 0.1-65 parts by weight of an inorganic compound, the resin composition having a mean linear expansion coefficient (α2) of 1.0×10−3 [° C.−1] or below over the temperature range from a temperature 10° C. higher than a glass transition temperature of the resin composition to a temperature 50° C. higher than the glass transition temperature of the resin composition.
US07754797B2 Non-fibrous polymer solution of para-aramid with high relative viscosity
The invention relates to a non-fibrous polymer solution essentially consisting of 1 to 8 wt. % para-aramid, at least 50 mole % of the aromatic moieties thereof being unsubstituted, in a mixture of a) a polar amide solvent selected from N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, N,N′-dimethyl-formamide, N,N′-dimethylacetamide, tetramethylurea, and mixtures thereof; b) between 0.7 mole of an alkali or alkaline earth metal chloride per mole amide groups of the para-aramid and 7.5 wt. % of the alkali or alkaline earth metal chloride, and c) water; and wherein at least 50 wt. % of the formed hydrochloric acid has been neutralized to obtain a solution having a dynamic viscosity which is at least a factor three smaller than the dynamic viscosity of the polymer solution without neutralization. The invention further pertains to a process making the same and para-aramid pulp-like fiber, paper and film made from said polymer solution.
US07754796B2 Method for producing fluorine-containing polymer, aqueous dispersion of fluorine-containing polymer, 2-acyloxycarboxylic acid derivative, and surface active agent.
The present invention provides a method of producing a fluoropolymer, wherein polymerization using a carboxylate ester bond-containing carboxylic acid derivative as a surfactant in an aqueous medium to give the fluoropolymer is conducted, the above carboxylate ester bond-containing carboxylic acid derivative has a carboxylate ester bond and —COOM (M representing H, NH4, Li, Na or K), the above carboxylate ester bond may optionally be substituted by fluorine atom.
US07754793B2 Flame resistant polycarbonate composition
A thermoplastic molding composition that releases upon burning a limited amount of smoke is disclosed. The composition includes 95 to 60 percent aromatic (co)polycarbonate, 5 to 40 percent bromine-substituted oligocarbonate, and 0.04 to 0.2 percent alkali or alkaline-earth salt of perfluoroalkane sulfonic acid, the percents all occurrences being relative to the weight of the composition.
US07754791B2 Energy absorbing composition and impact and sound absorbing applications thereof
A substantially non-elastic incompressible composition, which substantially does not quickly self-level under standard operating conditions, includes: a suspending agent which reacts substantially as a solid when subjected to forces below a critical force, and which becomes substantially flowable when subjected to forces above said critical force; ceramic microparticulates dispersed within the suspending agent; flexible-walled microparticulates dispersed within the suspending agent; and celled macroparticulates dispersed within the suspending agent. The composition provides an incident energy absorbing property. The incident energy may include sound energy, and the microparticulates and macroparticulates may convert some of the sound energy into heat, or may diffract the sound energy.
US07754789B1 Method for forming flame-retardant clay-polyolefin composites
A method for forming polyolefin/clay composites by olefin polymerization which can be used as flame retardants in which at least one filler is combined with an early or late transition metal first catalyst component that becomes activated for olefin polymerization when in contact with the treated filler. An olefin is contacted by the activated catalyst-filler combination either (a) in the absence of an alkylaluminum second catalyst component or (b) in the presence an alkylaluminum second catalyst component when the first catalyst component is an early transition metal catalyst, whereby to form an clay-polyolefin composite incorporating platelets of said filler. The filler is preferably clay, exemplified by montmorillonite and chlorite. The first catalyst component is preferably a non-metallocene catalyst. A predetermined amount of one or more olefinic polymers can also be blended with a masterbatch to obtain a composite having a desired amount of loading.
US07754788B2 Light plaster mixture in pasty form
The invention relates to a light plaster mixture in pasty form which has improved storage stability. This is based on a composition which contains a binder, inorganic fillers, light fillers, water and also further additives. The light plaster mixture according to the invention can be used in the form of final coats on any bases.
US07754787B2 Curable film-forming compositions containing colloidal particle sols having improved appearance and mar and scratch resistance
Curable film-forming compositions comprising a film-forming resin and an organic sol of particles are provided. The sol of particles may be prepared by providing a suspension of particles in an aqueous medium; adding a first organic liquid compatible with the aqueous medium to form an admixture; reacting the particles with a first and a second modifying compound; adding a second organic liquid compatible with the liquid portion of the admixture wherein the second organic liquid is different from the first organic liquid; and maintaining the admixture at a temperature and pressure and for a time sufficient to substantially remove the water and the first organic liquid. The film-forming resin comprises an active hydrogen-functional polymer having low functionality; i.e., a functional group equivalent weight greater than 380 g/equivalent, and a crosslinking agent, yet surprisingly offers outstanding mar and scratch resistance.
US07754786B2 Aqueous dispersions of polymer-enclosed particles, related coating compositions and coated substrates
Disclosed are aqueous dispersions of polymer-enclosed particles, such as nanoparticles. Also disclosed are methods for making an aqueous dispersion of polymer-enclosed particles, polymerizable polymers useful in such a method, powder coating compositions formed from such an aqueous dispersion, substrates at least partially coated with such a composition, and reflective surfaces comprising a non-hiding coating layer deposited from such a composition.
US07754784B2 Oil-based ink compositions for inkjet printers
An oil-based ink composition for inkjet printers contains a fixing polymer and a solvent represented by the following formula (1): wherein X1 represents an alkyl group, X2 represents a hydrogen atom or alkyl group, and n stands for an integer of from 1 to 4. The fixing polymer is an acrylic polymer obtained by subjecting an acrylic monomer to solution polymerization with a radical polymerization initiator in the solvent. A production process of the oil-based ink composition is also disclosed.
US07754783B2 Resin-containing composition, liquid application method and liquid application apparatus
Disclosed herein is a resin-containing composition comprising a solvent, a coloring material insoluble in the solvent and a block polymer compound having a repeating structural unit represented by the following general formula (1): wherein X is a polyalkenyl group which may be substituted, A is a linear or branched alkylene group having 1 to 15 carbon atoms, which may be substituted, at least one CH2 of the alkylene group may be substituted by O, m is an integer of from 0 to 30, the respective A groups may be different from each other when m is plural, Y is at least one of S, O and Se with the proviso that Y contains at least one S and that S, O and Se are each linked via a single bond, and R is a linear or branched alkyl group which may be substituted, an aromatic ring which may be substituted, or a structure in which at most 3 fused rings or aromatic rings, which may be substituted, are bonded via a single bond.
US07754777B2 Method for obtaining micro- and nano-disperse systems
The invention relates to a method for obtaining micro- and nanodisperse systems. In particular, it relates to a method that allows said systems, such as liposomes, emulsions and suspensions, to be obtained with a size of less than 50 μm, and preferably less than 1 μm, and with improved stability properties over time, which includes the stages of a) Dissolving or suspending a compound C in a fluid A, to obtain a mixture AC, in the form of a solution or dispersion; b) Thermostatising said mixture AC to a temperature of between −50° C. and 200° C.; c) Adding a fluid B to mixture AC until a pressure P is obtained; and it is characterised in that in said stage (c) formation of the solution AB occurs and because it includes, d) Reducing the pressure of solution AB to a pressure lower than or equal to 100 bars, and then e) Adding a fluid E, in which fluid A is miscible and in which compound C is partially or totally insoluble at atmospheric pressure, with said fluid E acting as a crystallisation interruption agent.
US07754775B2 Multi-lamellar liquid crystal emulsion system
Topical cosmetic and pharmaceutical oil-in-water emulsions wherein an emulsifier blend, comprising a mixture of at least two sucrose esters in combination with at least one solid fatty alcohol, forms a multi-lamellar liquid crystalline network that effectively moisturizes and protects the skin, and provides a useful vehicle for delivery of active ingredients. Sucrose esters are used in emulsions of the present invention at very low concentrations (from about 0.2 % to about 1.2 % by combined weight of sucrose esters relative to the total weight of the emulsion).
US07754769B2 Compositions and methods for preventing or treating an inflammatory response
The present invention relates to methods for modulating the inflammatory response of respiratory tract cells using an agent that increases ceramide levels in the cells of the respiratory tract.
US07754768B2 Methods and compositions for modulating alpha adrenergic receptor activity
Methods and compositions for the treatment of pain and intraocular pressure. Particularly disclosed are new compositions for the treatment of chronic pain, glaucoma and methods for their use.
US07754767B2 Method for treatment of premature ejaculation in humans
The present invention belongs to the fields of pharmacology, medicine and medicinal chemistry, and provides methods and compositions for treating sexual dysfunction; more particularly, the invention relates to treatment of premature ejaculation in humans.
US07754765B2 Copper chelators for treating ocular inflammation
In various aspects, the invention provides methods for treating ocular inflammation using copper chelating compounds, such as compounds other than D-penicillamine. In some embodiments, such compounds may be polyamines, such as triethylenetetramine or tetraethylenepentamine. For example, the present invention provides methods for treating inflammation secondary to ocular laser therapy.
US07754761B2 Sulfonated compounds and compositions for treating amyloidosis
Therapeutic compounds and methods for inhibiting amyloid deposition in a subject, whatever its clinical setting, are described. Amyloid deposition is inhibited by the administration to a subject of an effective amount of a therapeutic compound comprising an anionic group and a carrier molecule, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, such that an interaction between an amyloidogenic protein and a basement membrane constituent is inhibited. Preferred anionic groups are sulfonates and sulfates. Preferred carrier molecules include carbohydrates, polymers, peptides, peptide derivatives, aliphatic groups, alicyclic groups, heterocyclic groups, aromatic groups and combinations thereof.
US07754758B2 Pyrrolidine derivatives acting as CCR3-receptor antagonists
Compounds of formula I in free or salt form, wherein T, X, Y, U, R1, R2, m, n and p have the meanings as indicated in the specification, are useful for treating conditions mediated by CCR3. Pharmaceutical compositions that contain the compounds and processes for preparing the compounds are also described.
US07754757B2 Bicycloester derivative
Novel bicycloester derivatives and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof have high DPP-IV inhibitory activity.The novel bicycloester derivatives are represented by the general formula (1): Pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof are also included (Example: (2S,4S)-1-[[N-(4-ethoxycarbonylbicyclo[2.2.2]oct-1-yl)amino]acetyl]-4-fluoropyrrolidine-2-carbonitrile)).
US07754756B2 Indol-containing beta-agonists, methods for the preparation thereof and their use as pharmaceutical compositions
The present invention relates to new beta-agonists of general formula (I) wherein the groups R1 and R2 have the meanings given in the claims and specification, the tautomers, racemates, enantiomers, diastereomers, solvates, hydrates, mixtures thereof, the prodrugs thereof and the salts thereof, particularly the physiologically acceptable salts thereof with inorganic or organic acids or bases, methods of preparing these compounds and their use as pharmaceutical compositions.
US07754751B2 Preferential inhibition of release of pro-inflammatory cytokines
A method for preferentially inhibiting release of pro-inflammatory cytokines over release of anti-inflammatory cytokines using a fused pyrazolyl compound of formula (I): A is R or in which R is H, alkyl, aryl, cyclyl, heteroaryl, or heterocyclyl; each of Ar1, Ar2, and Ar3, independently, is phenyl, thienyl, furyl, or pyrrolyl; each of R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, and R6, independently, is R′, nitro, halogen, —C(O)—OR′, —C(O)—SR′, —C(O)—NR′R″, —(CH2)mOR′, —(CH2)mSR′, —(CH2)mNR′R″, —(CH2)mCN, —(CH2)mC(O)—OR′, —(CH2)mC(O)H, or R1 and R2 together, R3 and R4 together, or R5 and R6 together are —O(CH2)nO—, in which each of R′ and R″, independently, is H, alkyl, cyclyl, aryl, heteroaryl, heterocyclyl; and m is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6; and n is 1, 2, or 3. This invention also covers a method of inhibiting activity of NF-κB with such a compound.
US07754748B2 Method for treating obesity
The present invention relates, in general, to obesity, and, in particular, to a method of treating obesity and minimizing metabolic risk factors associated therewith using, for example, zonisamide or other weight-loss promoting anticonvulsant either alone or in combination with bupropion or other compound that enhances the activity of norepinephrine and/or dopamine via uptake inhibition or other mechanism.
US07754745B2 Azacyclopentane derivatives as inhibitors of stearoyl-coenzyme a delta-9 desaturase
Azacyclopentane derivatives of structural formula (I) are selective inhibitors of stearoyl-coenzyme A delta-9 desaturase (SCD1) relative to other known stearoyl-coenzyme A desaturases. The compounds of the present invention are useful for the prevention and treatment of conditions related to abnormal lipid synthesis and metabolism, including cardiovascular disease; atherosclerosis; obesity; diabetes; neurological disease; metabolic syndrome; insulin resistance; liver steatosis; and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.
US07754742B2 Imidazole carboxamides
The present invention provides certain imidazole carboxamide derivatives, pharmaceutical compositions thereof, methods of using the same and processes for preparing the same.
US07754740B2 1H-indole-3-carboxylic acid derivatives and their use as PPAR agonists
Compounds of the formula (1): in which A, R1, R2 and R3 are as defined in the description, the processes for the preparation of these compounds, the uses thereof for the treatment of dyslipidaemia, atherosclerosis and diabetes, and the pharmaceutical compositions comprising them.
US07754739B2 Modulators of CFTR
Compounds of the present invention, and pharmaceutically acceptable compositions thereof, are useful as modulators of ATP-Binding Cassette (“ABC”) transporters or fragments thereof, including Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (“CFTR”). The present invention also relates to methods of treating ABC transporter mediated diseases using compounds of the present invention.
US07754737B2 Diaminoalkane aspartic protease inhibitors
Diaminoalkanes of Formula I have now been found which are orally active and bind to aspartic proteases to inhibit their activity. They are useful in the treatment or amelioration of diseases associated with elevated levels of aspartic protease activity. The invention also relates to a method for the use of the compounds of Formula I in ameliorating or treating aspartic protease related disorders in a subject in need thereof comprising administering to said subject an effective amount of a compound of Formula I.
US07754730B2 Arylindenopyridines and arylindenopyrimidines and related therapeutic and prophylactic methods
This invention provides novel arylindenopyridines and arylindenopyrimidines of the formula: wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, and X are as defined above, and pharmaceutical compositions comprising same, useful for treating disorders ameliorated by antagonizing adenosine A2a receptors. This invention also provides therapeutic and prophylactic methods using the instant compounds and pharmaceutical compositions.
US07754725B2 Dihydroxyphenyl isoindolymethanones
Compounds having the formula (I): and in particular, those of subgenus VIIa are disclosed as inhibits or modulators of the activity of the heat shock protein Hsp90. As such they are useful for treating cancer, particularly hematopoietic tumors of lymphoid or myeloid lineage, prostate cancer, lung cancer, gastrointestinal stromal tumor, breast cancer and melanoma.
US07754724B2 N-substituted piperazines
Novel N-alkyl substituted piperazines have been discovered, which are useful as insecticides or fungicides. Such compounds are of Formula (I) wherein X, Y, R1 and R2 are as defined herein.
US07754719B2 Substituted piperidine derivatives as somatostatin SST1 receptor antagonists
Compound of the formula (I) wherein R1, R2, n and m are as defined in the specification. The compounds of formula (I) are somatostatin sst1 receptor antagonists.
US07754716B2 Combination comprising a vasculostatic compound and an alkylating agent for the treatment of a tumor
The invention relates to a pharmaceutical combination which comprises (a) a vasculostatic compound, (b) an alkylating agent and (c) optionally at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier for simultaneous, separate or sequential use for the treatment of a tumor disease; a pharmaceutical composition comprising such a combination; the use of such a combination for the preparation of a medicament for the treatment of a tumor disease; a commercial package or product comprising such a combination as a combined preparation for simultaneous, separate or sequential use; and to a method of treatment of a warm-blooded animal, especially a human.
US07754713B2 4-benzimidazol-2-ylpyridazin-3-one derivatives
Disclosed are compounds of the general formula (I), where the definition of the substituents A, B, D, E, R1 and R2 are detailed in the description, and the physiologically tolerated salts thereof, a process for the preparation of these compounds and their use as pharmaceuticals. These compounds are kinase inhibitors, in particular inhibitors of the kinase CDK2 (cyclin-dependent kinase 2).
US07754711B2 Pyridazine derivatives and their use as therapeutic agents
Methods of treating an SCD-mediated disease or condition in a mammal, preferably a human, are disclosed, wherein the methods comprise administering to a mammal in need thereof a compound of formula (Ia): where x, y, W, V, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R6a, R7, R7a, R8, R8a, R9 and R9a are defined herein. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compounds of formula (I) are also disclosed.
US07754707B2 Methods of treatment of chronic immune disease
Methods for treating a host suffering from a chronic immune disease, e.g., MS or CFS, are provided. In practicing the subject methods, an effective amount of an elastase inhibitory agent, e.g., a β-lactam containing compound, is administered to the host. Also provided are compositions for use in practicing the subject methods.
US07754705B2 Cationic steroid antimicrobial compositions and methods of use
The invention provides methods for decreasing or inhibiting poxvirus infection or pathogenesis of a cell in vitro, ex vivo or in vivo, a symptom or pathology associated with poxvirus infection or pathogenesis in vitro, ex vivo or in vivo, or an adverse side effect of poxvirus infection or pathogenesis in vitro, ex vivo or in vivo. In one embodiment, a method of the invention includes treating a subject with an invention compound (e.g., cationic steroid antimicrobial or CSA).
US07754700B2 Composition and methods for alleviating symptoms of neurotoxicity
A composition for alleviating symptoms associated with neurotoxicity. The composition may comprise compounds for preventing glutamate mediated neurotoxicity. The composition may include one or more of the following elements: at least one glutamate antagonist, at least one cAMP stimulating agent, at least one antioxidant, vitamin B12, at least one transporter and at least one surfactant. The composition may be used in methods for alleviating tinnitus, Ménière's Disease and/or hearing loss.
US07754693B2 Composition and method for the efficacious and safe administration of halopyruvate for the treatment of cancer
This invention provides compositions and methods for the treatment of cancer. An inhibitor cocktail buffer includes at least one sugar, a non-potassium containing buffer, and an inhibitor having the general formula: Such an inhibitor cocktail buffer allows for the efficacious and safe delivery of various compounds, including halopyruvates and derivatives thereof, to human cancer patients.
US07754692B2 Arginyl-glutamine dipeptide for treatment of pathological vascular proliferation
The subject invention provides dipeptides useful in preventing pathological proliferation of blood vessels. The dipeptides of the subject invention are particularly advantageous because they are stable, bioavailable, and can be formulated in an aqueous solution.
US07754691B1 Linear melanocortin receptor-specific peptides for cachexia
Linear peptides with a C-terminus —OH group that are specific for one or more melanocortin receptors, and which may be used in the treatment of melanocortin receptor-mediated disorders, including a variety of body weight disorders including cachexia, and for treatment of inflammation, immune disorders and other conditions, diseases and syndromes, and pharmaceutical compositions including such linear peptides.
US07754689B2 Finger-1 peptide analogs of the TGF-β superfamily
Members of the TGF-β superfamily and peptide fragments based on member proteins are employed to purify solutions containing member proteins or as therapeutics.
US07754687B2 Methods of inhibiting viral infection
The present invention is directed to methods of preventing and/or treating infectious disease. In a particular aspect, the invention is directed to treating viral infections by administering an isolated Prothymosin alpha molecule (SEQ ID NO: 2) to a subject in a therapeutically effective amount that reduces the symptoms associated with the viral infection. In a more particular embodiment, the viral infection is caused by a retrovirus, a lentivirus, or a hepatitis virus. In a particular aspect, the viral infection is caused by human immunodeficiency virus-1.
US07754686B2 Stabilized FGF formulations containing reducing agents
Stabilized FGF compositions are provided. The compositions comprise FGF or variant thereof and at least one reducing agent in an amount sufficient to inhibit FGF oxidation. Methods for increasing stability of FGF or variant thereof in a liquid or lyophilized composition and for increasing storage stability of such a composition are also provided.
US07754685B2 Methods and pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment and prevention of hepatitis C infection
This invention relates to cyclosporin derivatives of general formula (I): wherein A, B, R1, R2 and X are as defined in the specification, and pharmaceutical compositions prepared from the same, for use in treatment of hepatitis C virus.
US07754683B2 Bioactive peptide of bone morphogenetic protein-2
A bone morphogenetic protein-2 active peptide is characterized in that the structure is S[PO4]KIPKASSVPTELSAISTLYLDDD (SEQ ID NO: 1) or CCCCDDDS[PO4]KIPKASSVPTELSAISTLYL (SEQ ID NO: 2) or C16H31O—NH—CCCCGGGS[PO4]KIPKASSVPTELSAISTLYL (SEQ ID NO: 3). It overcomes the disadvantages of existing BMP-2, such as short half life, difficulty of sustained effect, complexity of equipments and preparation techniques, long production cycle, low yield, expensive price, and is accordingly difficult for large-scale production. In addition, the bone morphogenetic protein-2 active peptide exhibits the advantages, such as complete exposure of active sites, good ectopic osteogenesis ability, easy large-scale synthesis, lower cost, better stability and long duration. Meanwhile, the present invention also relates to the manufacturing method and application of such bone morphogenetic protein-2 active peptide.
US07754681B2 Heterocyclic self-immolative linkers and conjugates
The present invention provides heterocyclic linker compounds useful for linking drug moieties to ligands. The compounds also include drug-ligand conjugates comprising a ligand capable of targeting a selected cell population, and a drug connected to the ligand by a heterocyclic linker moiety. The linker moiety comprises a peptide sequence that is a substrate for an intracellular enzyme, for example a cathepsin, that cleaves the peptide at an amide bond. The peptide further contains a self-immolating moiety which connects the drug and the protein peptide sequence. Upon cleavage of the peptide sequence by an intracellular enzyme the self-immolating moiety cleaves itself from the drug moiety such that the drug moiety is in an underivatized and active form.
US07754680B2 Peptides for binding calcium carbonates and methods of use
Combinatorially generated peptides are provided that have binding affinity for calcium carbonates. The peptides may be used to deliver benefit agents to various calcium carbonate surfaces.
US07754673B2 Composition for use in the laundering or treatment of fabrics, and a process for making the composition
The present invention relates to an auxiliary composition, for use in the laundering or treatment of fabrics, comprising an admix of (i) clay and (ii) a silicone in an emulsified form.
US07754672B2 Polymer bound manganese compounds in cleaning composition
The present invention relates to cleaning compositions comprising polymer bound manganese compounds as reducing agents and the use of such manganese compounds in cleaning compositions, particularly to machine dishwashing compositions comprising a protein bound manganese compound as a silver corrosion protection agent and the use of such a manganese compound in dishwashing compositions.
US07754668B2 Compositions for the removal of post-etch and ashed photoresist residues and bulk photoresist
The invention provides cleaning compositions for cleaning microelectronic substrates that are able to essentially completely clean such substrates and inhibit metal corrosion or produce essentially no corrosion of the metal elements of such substrates, and to do so at relatively short cleaning times and relatively low temperatures compared to the cleaning times required for prior art alkaline-containing cleaning compositions. The invention also provides method of using such cleaning compositions to clean microelectronic substrates without producing any significant corrosion of the metal elements of the microelectronic substrate. The cleaning compositions of this invention comprise (a) at least one organic solvent, (b) at least one unneutralized inorganic phosphorus-containing acid, and (c) water. The cleaning compositions of this invention optionally can have present in the compositions other components, such as for example surfactants, metal complexing or chelating agents, corrosion inhibitors, and the like. The cleaning compositions of this invention are characterized by an absence of organic amines, hydroxylamines or other strong bases such as ammonium bases and the like that would neutralize the inorganic phosphorus-containing acid component. The cleaning and residue removal compositions of this invention are especially suitable for cleaning microelectronic substrates containing aluminum, titanium, and tungsten.
US07754667B2 Low-irritation compositions and methods of making the same
Provided are compositions comprising low molecular weight polymeric materials and surfactants having reduced irritation associated therewith, methods of reducing the irritation associated with a personal care composition comprising an anionic and/or amphoteric surfactant, the methods comprising combining a low molecular weight polymeric material capable of binding a surfactant thereto with an anionic surfactant to produce a reduced irritation personal care composition, and methods of using such compositions to cleanse the hair or skin with reduced irritation.
US07754666B2 Low-irritation compositions and methods of making the same
Provided are compositions comprising low molecular weight polymeric materials and surfactants having reduced irritation associated therewith, methods of reducing the irritation associated with a personal care composition comprising an anionic and/or amphoteric surfactant, the methods comprising combining a low molecular weight polymeric material capable of binding a surfactant thereto with an anionic surfactant to produce a reduced irritation personal care composition, and methods of using such compositions to cleanse the hair or skin with reduced irritation.
US07754658B2 Crosslinked acids comprising derivatized xanthan and subterranean acidizing applications
Many methods are provided herein including, in one embodiment, a method comprising: providing a fluid that comprises an acid, crosslinked oxidized xanthan, and optionally, a base fluid; placing the fluid in a well bore penetrating a subterranean formation; and allowing the fluid to acidize at least a portion of the formation or damage contained therein. In another embodiment, herein provided is a fluid for subterranean uses comprising an acid and crosslinked, oxidized xanthan.
US07754657B2 Method for removing asphaltene deposits
Compositions comprising at least one C4-C30 olefin or oxidation product thereof and kerosene or an aromatic solvent are particularly effective for use in removing asphaltene and asphaltene-containing organic deposits and in preventing or reducing the precipitation and deposition of asphaltenes from hydrocarbon fluids. When added to heavy oils comprising asphaltenes, alone or in combination with dispersants and further inhibitors, the invented compositions lower viscosity and pour point, and aid in preventing asphaltene precipitation during transport and in combustion.
US07754656B2 Production of nano-powder based combinatorial libraries
The present invention relates to methods and apparatus for synthesizing combinatorial materials libraries using pyrolysis techniques. In certain embodiments, the methods involve varying the precursors and/or reactant gases in an operating pyrolysis unit to continuously vary the resulting nanoparticle composition and collecting different nanoparticles at different locations on a substrate using a spatially addressable particle collector.
US07754655B2 Microcapsule formulations
The invention relates to novel microcapsule formulations of (A) a particulate disperse phase of microcapsules comprising (1) a polyurea and/or polyurethane coating with average layer thicknesses of between 5 and 20 nm, and (2) a capsule filling comprising at least one penetrant and, optionally, additives, and (B) a suspension comprising (1) at least one solid agrochemical active compound, (2) additives, (3) water, and (4) optionally, one or more agrochemical active compounds that are liquid at room temperature. The invention further relates to a process for the preparation of these microcapsule formulations and to their use for applying agrochemical active compounds.
US07754652B2 Method for removing sulfur compounds from gasoline or diesel fuel using molecularly imprinted polymers
A method and product for removing sulfur compound molecules from gasoline or diesel fuel includes exposing the gasoline or diesel fuel to a plurality of molecularly imprinted polymer beads (MIPS) that have receptor sites on the surfaces thereof that include imprints that match the physical shape of at least a portion of a sulfur compound molecule. A quantity of the sulfur molecules align with and adhere to some of the receptor sites and, accordingly, they are removed from the gasoline or diesel fuel producing a remediated or sweetened gasoline or diesel fuel. According to one embodiment, the MIPS are contained in an enclosure having a plurality of openings large enough to permit the solution to pass through and small enough so as to prevent the MIPS from passing through. According to another embodiment the MIPS are applied (i.e., coated) to the inside surface of a conduit and the gasoline or diesel fuel is forced or allowed to flow through the conduit thereby removing some of the sulfur molecules therefrom. The MIPS are treated after use to remove a sufficient quantity of the sulfur molecules from the receptor sites and are reused.
US07754651B2 Cu/Zn/Al catalyst for methanol synthesis
Disclosed is an Cu/Zn/Al-catalyst containing copper oxide and zinc oxide as catalytically active components and aluminium oxide as thermostabilising component. The catalyst is characterized in that the Cu/Zn atomic ratio is <2.8 and the aluminium oxide component is obtained from an aluminium hydroxide sol.
US07754650B2 Trifunctional catalyst for sulphur transfer, denitrogenation and combustion promoting and a method for preparing the same
The present invention relates to a trifunctional catalyst used in catalytic cracking device in petroleum refining industry and a method for preparing the same. The trifunctional catalyst of the invention comprises absorbent, cerium dioxide and vanadium pentoxide acting as oxidative catalyst and cerium oxyfluoride acting as structural promoter. The oxidative catalyst and structural promoter are dispersed over the absorbent. The absorbent is spinel-based composite oxides having a general formula of MgAl2-xFexO4.yMgO, where the x is 0.01-0.5 and y is 0.2-1.2. In the trifunctional catalyst, the raw material for forming the chemical compound containing rare-earth cerium is hamartite powder. The method for preparing the trifunctional catalyst of the invention is shown as follows: the components relating to the preparation of the finished product are dissolved or dispersed into liquid materials; then the trifunctional catalyst is obtained after the mixing, drying and calcining of such liquid materials. The trifunctional catalyst of the invention is used for highly efficient absorption and desorption of sulfoxides contained in the catalytic cracking flue gas regenerated in the process of petroleum refining, the combustion promoting of carbon monoxide and the reduction of nitrogen oxides. Furthermore, the method for preparing such trifunctional catalyst is featured for its lower cost.
US07754649B2 Structure having strong contact with solid particles, substrate having strong contact with solid particles, and manufacturing methods thereof
A structure having strong contact with solid particles comprising an assembly formed by secondary aggregation which is further aggregation of aggregates each formed by primary aggregation of primary particles each made of a metal and/or a metal oxide, wherein an average primary particle diameter of the primary particles is in a range from 1 to 100 μm, and, among void pores formed by the aggregates, a volume of void pores having pore diameters in a range within ±50% away from an average void pore diameter of the void pores is equal to or above 60% of a total volume of the void pores.
US07754647B2 Activated metathesis catalysts
The present invention provides a process for preparing a supported catalyst (catalyst C) having a support (support S) selected from among oxides, phosphates, silicates, carbides, borides and nitrides of main group elements and elements of transition groups VI and II and mixtures of the abovementioned compounds and an active component (activator A) comprising one or more compounds containing one or more elements of transition groups V, VI and VII customary for the catalysis of metathesis reactions.
US07754641B2 Hydrogen storage material and related processes
Disclosed herein is a composition comprising a complex hydride and a borohydride catalyst wherein the borohydride catalyst comprises a BH4 group, and a group IV metal, a group V metal, or a combination of a group IV and a group V metal. Also disclosed herein are methods of making the composition.
US07754636B2 Removal of excess metal halides from regenerated ionic liquid catalysts
A process for removing metal halides from regenerated ionic liquid catalyst comprising interacting a regenerated ammonium-based metal-halide ionic liquid catalyst or an ammonium-based metal-halide ionic liquid catalyst undergoing regeneration with either the parent ammonium halide salt from which the ionic liquid catalyst was made or a corresponding mixed salt having an ammonium halide to metal halide molar ratio of 0 to less than 2.0 is disclosed.
US07754631B2 Alkali-free glass substrate, method for producing it and liquid crystal display panel
To provide an alkali-free glass substrate, which has a high Young's modulus, a low linear expansion coefficient, a high strain point and a low density, does not devitrify in the float forming process and is excellent in acid resistance.An alkali-free glass substrate, which contains neither alkali component nor BaO and consists essentially of, as represented by mol % based on oxide, from 57.0 to 65.0% of SiO2, from 10.0 to 12.0% of Al2O3, from 6.0 to 9.0% of B2O3, from 5.0 to 10.0% of MgO, from 5.0 to 10.0% of CaO and from 2.5 to 5.5% of SrO, provided that MgO+CaO+SrO is from 16.0 to 19.0%, MgO/(MgO+CaO+SrO)≧0.40, and B2O3/(SiO2+Al2O3+B2O3)≦0.12; wherein Young's modulus ≧75 GPa; the linear expansion coefficient at from 50 to 350° C. is from 30×10−7/° C. to 40×10−7/° C.; the strain point ≧640° C.; the temperature T2 (the viscosity η satisfies log η=2)≦1,620° C.; the temperature T4 (the viscosity η satisfies log η=4)≦1,245° C.; the devitrification temperature ≦T4; and weight loss per unit area is at most 0.6 mg/cm2, when immersed in 0.1N HCl at 90° C. for 20 hours.
US07754630B2 Large transmissive optical component
An optical glass for the manufacture of large transmission optics, such as lenses having a thickness of 100 millimeters or more, comprises 35 to 70 wt.-% SiO2, 17 to 35 wt.-% Al2O3, 3 to 17 wt.-% P2O5, 0 to 6 wt.-% Li2O, 0.5 to 4 wt.-% MgO, 0.5 to 3 wt.-% ZnO, a maximum of 1 wt.-% CaO, a maximum of 0.5 wt.-% BaO, 0.5 to 6 wt.-% TiO2, 0.5 to 3 wt.-% ZrO2, 0 to 1 wt.-% Na2O, 0 to 1 wt.-% K2O, a maximum of 1 wt.-% of refining agents (As2O3, SP2O3) and a maximum of 500 ppm of other contaminants. The glass composition may be equal to the composition of the glass ceramic Zerodur® and allows to manufacture large transmission optics in a cost-effective way, has a maximum of transmittance which is in the range of a He—Ne lasers and has a CTE of about 3·10−6/K.
US07754629B2 Phosphotellurite-containing glasses, process for making same and articles comprising same
Disclosed are glass materials generally belonging to the P2O5—ZnO—TeO2 system and process for making the same. The glass may comprise Bi2O3 as well. The high refractive index and low Tg materials are particularly suitable for refractive lens elements for use in portable optical devices. The process involves the use of P2O5 source materials with reduced amounts of reducing agents or a step of removing the reducing agents from such source materials by an oxidizing step such as calcination.
US07754627B2 Stretchable non-woven fabric, absorbent article and absorbent article manufacturing method
The present invention provides an absorbent article imparting superior comfort during wearing without inhibiting an absorbent property of an absorbent body, and a manufacturing method thereof. In the stretchable non-woven fabrics composed of a stretchable thermoplastic fiber and a heat-adhesive fiber having a lower melting point than that of the thermoplastic fiber which is arranged on a skin non-contacting side of a chassis, a low-stretchability portion is formed, in which the stretchability of the stretchable non-woven fabrics is lowered, at least in a portion thereof which overlaps an absorbent body in a thickness direction. The low-stretchability portion is formed by heating and pressurizing the portion of an elasticized non-woven fabric being extended.
US07754626B2 Article of apparel incorporating a modifiable textile structure
An article of apparel is disclosed that includes a textile with at least one property that changes upon exposure to a physical stimulus. The textile has a modifiable structure formed from one or more yarns that exhibit a dimensional transformation upon exposure to the physical stimulus. The yarns have a first set of dimensions when unexposed to the physical stimulus, and the yarns have a second set of dimensions when exposed to the physical stimulus. The structure of the textile is modified by exposing the textile to the physical stimulus such that the yarns transform from the first set of dimensions to the second set of dimensions and change the property of the textile. Reinforcing structures, incisions, partial incisions, and coatings may also be utilized to enhance the textile structures.
US07754625B2 Wash-durable and color stable antimicrobial treated textiles
The present invention provides for a color stable antimicrobial coatings and coating systems comprising a silver ion-exchange type antimicrobial agent. In particular, coatings and coating systems having little, if any, discoloration are provided with no loss of antimicrobial efficacy.
US07754623B2 Apparatus for forming film hole
An exemplary film hole forming apparatus (400) includes a chemical etching system (410) and a driving system (420). The driving system includes a transmission belt, which passes through the chemical etching system. A material of the transmission belt is polytetrafluoroethylene, polytetrafluoroethylene-containing material, polyvinylidene fluoride, metal, or metal-sandwiched composite. An exemplary method for forming film holes includes the following steps: providing a flexible printed circuit board (300) to be etched, with copper holes (321) pre-formed thereat and the copper holes exposing a base film (310) at corresponding positions; and transporting the flexible printed circuit board into a chemical etching system by a transmission belt to form film holes in the base film.
US07754620B2 Film formation method and recording medium
A method of forming a metal silicate film on a silicon substrate in a processing container is disclosed that includes the steps of (a) forming a base oxide film on the silicon substrate by feeding an oxidation gas into the processing container; and (b) forming the metal silicate film on the base oxide film by continuing to feed the oxidation gas and by feeding a first gaseous phase material formed of an amidic organic hafnium compound and a second gaseous phase material formed of a silicon-containing material into the processing container.
US07754619B2 Method for forming a coating with a liquid, and method for manufacturing a semiconductor device
A method of forming a liquid coating on a substrate that reduces the amount of consumption of the coating liquid and achieves a more even distribution of the thickness of the liquid coating film. The method may include supplying a solvent to a surface of a substrate, starting a supply of a coating liquid to the surface of the substrate while rotating the substrate at a first rotation speed, stopping a rotation of the substrate by decelerating the rotation of the substrate at a deceleration larger than 30000 rpm/sec at a point of time when the supply of the coating liquid is stopped, and then rotating the substrate at a second rotation speed. Accordingly, the dispense amount of the coating liquid is reduced and the film thickness of the coating liquid is flatten.
US07754618B2 Method of forming an apparatus having a dielectric containing cerium oxide and aluminum oxide
A dielectric layer including cerium oxide and aluminum oxide acting as a single dielectric layer, and a method of fabricating such a dielectric layer, produces a reliable structure with a high dielectric constant (high-k) for use in a variety of electronic devices. Such a dielectric layer including cerium oxide and aluminum oxide may be used as the gate insulator of a MOSFET, as a capacitor dielectric in a DRAM, as a tunnel gate insulator in flash memory, or as a dielectric in an NROM device, among others, because the high dielectric constant (high-k) of the film provides the functionality of a much thinner silicon dioxide film.
US07754617B2 Polysilicon deposition and anneal process enabling thick polysilicon films for MEMS applications
A method of forming a thick polysilicon layer for a MEMS inertial sensor includes forming a first amorphous polysilicon film on a substrate in an elevated temperature environment for a period of time such that a portion of the amorphous polysilicon film undergoes crystallization and grain growth at least near the substrate. The method also includes forming an oxide layer on the first amorphous polysilicon film, annealing the first amorphous polysilicon film in an environment of about 1100° C. or greater to produce a crystalline film, and removing the oxide layer. Lastly, the method includes forming a second amorphous polysilicon film on a surface of the crystalline polysilicon film in an elevated temperature environment for a period of time such that a portion of the second amorphous polysilicon film undergoes crystallization and grain growth at least near the surface of the crystalline polysilicon film.
US07754613B2 Etching method and etching apparatus
Etching and protective-film deposition operations E and D are in alternation repeatedly executed on a silicon substrate carried on a platform within a processing chamber. With gas inside the processing chamber having been exhausted to pump down the chamber interior, in the etching operation E, the substrate is etched by supplying etching gas into the chamber and converting it into plasma and applying a bias potential to the platform, and in the protective-film deposition operation D, a protective film is formed on the silicon substrate by supplying protective-film deposition gas into the processing chamber and converting it into plasma. When a predetermined time prior to the close of operations E and D (time intervals indicated by reference marks Ee and De) is reached, the supply of etching or protective-film deposition gas is halted, and the exhaust flow rate of gas exhausted from the chamber is made greater than that previously.
US07754610B2 Process for etching tungsten silicide overlying polysilicon particularly in a flash memory
A method of plasma etching tungsten silicide over polysilicon particularly useful in fabricating flash memory having both a densely packed area and an open (iso) area requiring a long over etch due to microloading. Wafer biasing is decreased in the over etch. The principal etchant include NF3 and Cl2. Argon is added to prevent undercutting at the dense/iso interface. Oxygen and nitrogen oxidize any exposed silicon to increase etch selectivity and straightens the etch profile. SiCl4 may be added for additional selectivity.
US07754608B2 Manufacturing method for the integration of nanostructures into microchips
State-of-the-art synthesis of carbon nanostructures (25) by chemical vapor deposition involve heating a catalyst material to high temperatures up 700-1000° C. in a furnace and flowing hydrocarbon gases through the reactor over a period of time. In order to enable a self assembly of nanostructures (25) on microchips (10) without damaging the microchip (10) by high temperatures the proposed manufacturing method comprises: A layer (1) contains indentations (3) on which nanostructures (25) are to be integrated and the indentations (3) are heated up by a current (I) conducted to the layer (1) via contact pads (2).
US07754604B2 Reducing silicon attack and improving resistivity of tungsten nitride film
The present invention provides improved methods of depositing tungsten-containing films on substrates, particularly on silicon substrates. The methods involve depositing an interfacial or “flash” layer of tungsten on the silicon prior to deposition of tungsten nitride. The tungsten flash layer is typically deposited by a CVD reaction of a tungsten precursor and a reducing agent. According to various embodiments, the tungsten flash layer may be deposited with a high reducing agent to tungsten-precursor ratio and/or at low temperature to reduce attack by the tungsten precursor. In many cases, the substrate is a semiconductor wafer or a partially fabricated semiconductor wafer. Applications include depositing tungsten nitride as (or as part of) a diffusion barrier and/or adhesion layer for tungsten contacts.
US07754601B2 Semiconductor interconnect air gap formation process
A semiconductor package including an interconnect air gap and method for making the same. The semiconductor package includes a dielectric layer, a metallic interconnect, an air gap disposed between the dielectric layer and interconnect, and a spacer interspersed between the metallic interconnect and air gap. The metallic interconnect is laterally supported by and isolated from the air gap by the spacer. A method for making the same is also provided.
US07754599B2 Structure for reducing stress for vias and fabricating method thereof
A structure for reducing stress for vias and a fabricating method thereof are provided. One or more wires or vias in the thickness direction are enframed with the use of a stress block in a lattice structure to be isolated from being directly contacted with the major portion of insulating materials with a high coefficient of thermal expansion. Thus, the shear stress resulting from temperature loading can be blocked or absorbed by the stress block.
US07754596B2 Semiconductor device preventing electrical short and method of manufacturing the same
A semiconductor device capable of preventing an electrical short between contacts and their adjacent contact pads and a method of manufacturing the same are provided. A first interlayer insulating layer is formed on the semiconductor substrate including the active region. Contact pads pass through the first interlayer insulating layer and contact with the active region. Contacts are formed on the contact pads and are connected to a conductive layer disposed above the contacts. The contact pads have a height lower than a top surface of the first interlayer insulating layer such that the contact pads have smaller thickness than the first interlayer insulating layer.
US07754594B1 Method for tuning the threshold voltage of a metal gate and high-k device
A metal gate and high-k dielectric device includes a substrate, an interfacial layer on top of the substrate, a high-k dielectric layer on top of the interfacial layer, a metal film on top of the high-k dielectric layer, a cap layer on top of the metal film and a metal gate layer on top of the cap layer. The thickness of the metal film and the thickness of the cap layer are tuned such that a target concentration of a cap layer material is present at an interface of the metal film and the high-k dielectric layer.
US07754590B2 Method of manufacturing a semiconductor device comprising a field stop zone at a specific depth
Some embodiments of the invention relate to manufacturing a semiconductor device with an implantation layer on a semiconductor substrate including a method of manufacturing such an implantation layer, wherein said implantation layer is formed in an implantation step at a predetermined depth of penetration, determined from a top surface of said semiconductor substrate, using a particle beam, by increasing its path distance to a main implantation peak and correspondingly increasing the energy level of said particle beam for producing an undamaged implantation layer having a thickness that is increased significantly compared with the thickness of an implantation layer that would be produced at said predetermined depth of penetration using a particle beam with non-increased path distance and energy level.
US07754588B2 Method to improve a copper/dielectric interface in semiconductor devices
Embodiments of methods for improving a copper/dielectric interface in semiconductor devices are generally described herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.
US07754586B2 Method of surface treating a phase change layer and method of manufacturing a phase change memory device using the same
A method of surface treating a phase change layer may include, before forming the phase change layer, forming a coating layer on a surface of a bottom layer on which the phase change layer is to be formed, wherein the coating layer has a chemical structure for contributing to the adherence of an alkyl radical to the surface of the bottom layer. After forming the coating layer, the phase change layer may be formed using an atomic layer deposition (ALD) method.
US07754585B2 Method of heat treatment of silicon wafer doped with boron
A method of subjecting a silicon wafer doped with boron to a heat treatment in an argon atmosphere, wherein the argon atmosphere is replaced with a hydrogen atmosphere or a mixed gas of an argon gas and a hydrogen gas in a proper fashion, to thereby uniformize a boron concentration in the thickness direction of the surface layer of the silicon wafer doped with boron.
US07754584B2 Semiconductor substrate, and semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the semiconductor device
In a semiconductor substrate 1, a plurality of semiconductor elements 2 having diaphragm structures are formed in the form of cells in the longitudinal direction and the lateral direction, and V-grooves 3 are formed by anisotropic etching continuously on only division lines 4 parallel formed in one direction, out of the division lines 4 which are orthogonal to each other and divide the respective semiconductor elements 2 individually.
US07754582B2 Laser processing method
A laser processing method including a first step of forming a first groove and a second step of forming a second groove on the workpiece. In the first step, the laser beam is intermittently applied to the first street except the intersections between the first street and the second street, thereby forming a discontinuous groove as the first groove in such a manner that each intersection is not grooved. In the second step, the laser beam is continuously applied to the second street, thereby forming a continuous groove as the second groove intersecting the first groove in such a manner that each intersection is grooved by the second groove. In the second step, heat generated at a portion immediately before each intersection is passed through the intersection to be dissipated forward, thereby suppressing overheating at this portion.
US07754578B2 Process for manufacturing a wafer by annealing of buried channels
A process for manufacturing an SOI wafer, including the steps of: forming, in a wafer of semiconductor material, cavities delimiting structures of semiconductor material; thinning out the structures through a thermal process; and completely oxidizing the structures.
US07754577B2 Method for fabricating capacitor
A method for fabricating a capacitor includes: forming a storage node contact plug over a substrate; forming an insulation layer having an opening exposing a surface of the storage node contact plug over the storage contact plug; forming a conductive layer for a storage node over the insulation layer and the exposed surface of the storage node contact plug through two steps performed at different temperatures; performing an isolation process to isolate parts of the conductive layer; and sequentially forming a dielectric layer and a plate electrode over the isolated conductive layer.
US07754569B2 Anti-halo compensation
An apparatus and method for controlling the net doping in the active region of a semiconductor device in accordance with a gate length is provided. A compensating dopant is chosen to be a type of dopant which will electrically neutralize dopant of the opposite type in the substrate. By implanting the compensating dopant at relatively high angle and high energy, the compensating dopant will pass into and through the gate region for short channels and have little or no impact on the total dopant concentration within the gate region. Where the channel is of a longer length, the high implant angle and the high implant energy cause the compensating dopant to lodge within the channel thereby neutralizing a portion of the dopant of the opposite type.
US07754566B2 Power electronic device of multi-drain type integrated on a semiconductor substrate and relative manufacturing process
A power electronic device is integrated on a semiconductor substrate of a first type of conductivity. The device includes a plurality of elemental units, and each elemental unit includes a body region of a second type of conductivity which is realized on a semiconductor layer of the first type of conductivity formed on the semiconductor substrate, and a column region of the first type of conductivity which is realized in said semiconductor layer below the body region. The semiconductor layer includes multiple semiconductor layers which overlap each other. The resistivity of each layer is different from that of the other layers. The column region includes a plurality of doped sub-regions, each realized in one of the semiconductor layers. The amount of charge of each doped sub-region balances the amount of charge of the corresponding semiconductor layer in which each doped sub-region is realized.
US07754563B2 Nanolaminate-structure dielectric film forming method
Nanolaminate-structure SrO/TiO films are formed on a lower electrode of a capacitor by molecular layer deposition kept in a rate-determined state by a surface reaction. The nanolaminate-structure SrO/TiO films are formed by alternately laminating one or more and 20 or less SrO molecular layers and one or more and 20 or less TiO molecular layers at 150° C. or more and 400° C. or less and at 10 Torr or more and the atmospheric pressure or less. This makes it possible to obtain the nanolaminate-structure SrO/TiO films with a high permittivity and a high coverage and with no occurrence of crystalline foreign substance.
US07754560B2 Integrated circuit using FinFETs and having a static random access memory (SRAM)
An integrated circuit includes a logic circuit and a memory cell. The logic circuit includes a P-channel transistor, and the memory cell includes a P-channel transistor. The P-channel transistor of the logic circuit includes a channel region. The channel region has a portion located along a sidewall of a semiconductor structure having a surface orientation of (110). The portion of the channel region located along the sidewall has a first vertical dimension that is greater than a vertical dimension of any portion of the channel region of the P-channel transistor of the memory cell located along a sidewall of a semiconductor structure having a surface orientation of (110).
US07754559B2 Method for fabricating capacitor structures using the first contact metal
A capacitor structure is fabricated with only slight modifications to a conventional single-poly CMOS process. After front-end processing is completed, grooves are etched through the pre-metal dielectric layer to expose polysilicon structures, which may be salicided or non-salicided. A dielectric layer is formed over the exposed polysilicon structures. A conventional contact process module is then used to form contact openings through the pre-metal dielectric layer. The mask used to form the contact openings is then removed, and conventional contact metal deposition steps are performed, thereby simultaneously filling the contact openings and the grooves with the contact (electrode) metal stack. A planarization step removes the upper portion of the metal stack, thereby leaving metal contacts in the contact openings, and metal electrodes in the grooves. The metal electrodes may form, for example, transistor gates, EEPROM control gates or capacitor plates.
US07754555B2 Transistor having a channel with biaxial strain induced by silicon/germanium in the gate electrode
By forming a stressed semiconductor material in a gate electrode, a biaxial tensile strain may be induced in the channel region, thereby significantly increasing the charge carrier mobility. This concept may be advantageously combined with additional strain-inducing sources, such as embedded strained semiconductor materials in the drain and source regions, thereby providing the potential for enhancing transistor performance without contributing to process complexity.
US07754554B2 Methods for fabricating low contact resistance CMOS circuits
Methods for fabricating low contact resistance CMOS integrated circuits are provided. In accordance with an embodiment, a method for fabricating a CMOS integrated circuit including an NMOS transistor and a PMOS transistor disposed in and on a silicon-comprising substrate includes depositing a first silicide-forming metal on the NMOS and PMOS transistors. The first silicide-forming metal forms a silicide at a first temperature. At least a portion of the first silicide-forming metal is removed from the NMOS or PMOS transistor and a second silicide-forming metal is deposited. The second silicide-forming metal forms a silicide at a second temperature that is different from the first temperature. The first silicide-forming metal and the second silicide-forming metal are heated at a temperature that is no less than the higher of the first temperature and the second temperature.
US07754549B2 Method of manufacturing thin film transistor array panel
A method of manufacturing a thin film transistor array panel includes forming an amorphous silicon film on an insulating substrate; forming a sacrificial film having an embossed surface on the amorphous silicon film; contacting a metal plate with the sacrificial film and performing heat-treatment for crystallizing the amorphous silicon film to change the amorphous silicon film to a polycrystalline silicon film; removing the metal plate and the sacrificial film; patterning the polycrystalline silicon film to form a semiconductor; forming a gate insulating layer which covers the semiconductor; forming a gate line on the gate insulating layer, a portion of the gate line overlapping the semiconductor; heavily doping a conductive impurity into portions of the semiconductor to form a source region and a drain region; forming an interlayer insulating layer which covers the gate line and the semiconductor; and forming a data line and an output electrode connected to the source and drain regions, respectively, on the interlayer insulating layer.
US07754543B2 Method of patterning multiple-layered resist film and method of manufacturing semiconductor device
A method of patterning a multiple-layered resist film and a method of manufacturing a semiconductor device, which can provide an improved reliability of the semiconductor devices and a reduced operation time for an etch process, are provided. A method of patterning a multiple-layered resist film according to the present invention include: forming a lower layer resist film 104 on a semiconductor substrate; forming a silicon-containing upper layer resist film on the lower layer resist film 104; patterning the silicon-containing upper layer resist film into a predetermined geometry; and performing dry etching process for removing the lower layer resist film 104 through a mask of the patterned silicon-containing upper layer resist film 106 employing an etching gas containing oxygen (O2) gas and argon (Ar) gas at a pressure within a range of from 0.075 mTorr to 50 mTorr both inclusive.
US07754538B2 Packaging substrate structure with electronic components embedded therein and method for manufacturing the same
A packaging substrate structure with electronic components embedded therein and a method for manufacturing the same are disclosed. The packaging substrate structure comprises: a core board; a built-up structure disposed on at least one surface of the core board, wherein the built-up structure has a plurality of conductive pads and an electronic component-disposing part on the surface thereof; a solder mask disposed on the surface of the built-up structure, where the solder mask has a open area to expose the electronic component-disposing part and a plurality of openings to expose the conductive pads of the built-up structure; and an electronic component disposed on the electronic component-disposing part and in the open area. Accordingly, the packaging substrate disclosed by the present invention exhibits enhanced electrical performance and product reliability.
US07754535B2 Method of manufacturing chip integrated substrate
There are provided the steps of connecting a chip component 13 to a first substrate 10 through wire bonding, providing, on a second substrate 20, an electrode 21 having a solder coat 23 with a copper core 22, polishing a portion of the electrode 21 which is to be bonded to the connecting pad 12, thereby exposing the copper core 22 from the solder coat 23, bonding the exposed portion of the copper core 22 to the bump connecting pad 12 by using a flux non-containing conductive paste 30, thereby bonding the substrates 10 and 20 to each other, and filling a sealing resin 40 in a clearance portion between the substrates 10 and 20.
US07754531B2 Method for packaging microelectronic devices
Methods for packaging microelectronic devices and microelectronic devices formed by such methods are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a method includes coupling a plurality of microelectronic dies to a support member, covering the dies and at least a portion of the support member with a dielectric layer, forming a plurality of vias through the dielectric layer between the dies, and fabricating a plurality of conductive links in corresponding vias. In another embodiment, a plurality of microelectronic devices includes a support member, a plurality of microelectronic dies coupled to the support member, a dielectric layer over the dies and at least a portion of the support member, and a plurality of conductive links extending from a first surface of the dielectric layer to a second surface. The dies include an integrated circuit and a plurality of bond-pads coupled to the integrated circuit, and the conductive links are disposed between the dies.
US07754527B2 LED and method of manufacturing the same
An LED can include a pair of electrode members, and an LED chip joined to a chip mount portion disposed at the extremity of one of the pair of electrode members. The LED chip can be electrically connected to the pair of electrode members. A transparent resin portion can include a wavelength conversion material mixed therein, the transparent resin portion formed in such a manner as to surround the LED chip, wherein the LED chip is positioned offset toward one side in the transparent resin portion, and wherein the wavelength conversion material mixed in the transparent resin portion has a higher density around the LED chip within the transparent resin portion.
US07754524B2 Methods, devices and compositions for depositing and orienting nanostructures
Methods and systems for depositing nanomaterials onto a receiving substrate and optionally for depositing those materials in a desired orientation, that comprise providing nanomaterials on a transfer substrate and contacting the nanomaterials with an adherent material disposed upon a surface or portions of a surface of a receiving substrate. Orientation is optionally provided by moving the transfer and receiving substrates relative to each other during the transfer process.
US07754523B2 Method for fabricating organic thin film transistor and method for fabricating liquid crystal display device using the same
A method for fabricating an organic thin film transistor includes forming a gate electrode on a substrate, forming a gate insulating layer on the substrate including the gate electrode, forming an organic active pattern on the gate insulating layer using a rear exposing process, and forming source and drain electrodes on the organic active pattern.
US07754519B1 Methods of forming a photovoltaic cell
In some embodiments, a method of forming a photovoltaic cell includes (1) forming a cleave plane in a donor body so as to define a lamina to be bonded to a receiver element and exfoliated from the donor body; (2) prior to bonding, pre-heating the donor body without the receiver element to a temperature of greater than about 200° C. for a first time period that is less than a time period required for exfoliation of the lamina from the donor body; (3) cooling the donor body after pre-heating the donor body; (4) bonding the donor body to the receiver element; and (5) heating the bonded donor body and receiver element for a second time period so as to complete the exfoliation of the lamina from the donor body. Numerous other aspects are provided.
US07754517B2 Method for manufacturing infrared detecting device
A semiconductor layer is prepared in which a silicon substrate, a BOX layer and an SOI layer are laminated in this order. A silicon diode section used as an infrared detection portion is formed in the SOI layer. Further, an isolation portion is formed so as to extend from the SOI layer to a predetermined depth of the silicon substrate via the BOX layer. The isolation portion is formed so as to surround an area in which the silicon diode section is formed, and have the form of a circle or a regular polygon more than a regular pentagon in shape. A protective film is formed on the surface of the SOI layer. Thereafter, etching holes that penetrate the protective film, the SOI layer and the BOX layer are formed. The silicon substrate corresponding to each area surrounded by the isolation portion is etched using the etching holes.
US07754516B2 Fabricating sub-lithographic contacts
A small critical dimension element, such as a heater for an ovonic unified memory, may be formed within a pore by using successive sidewall spacers. The use of at least two successive spacers enables the limitations imposed by lithography and the limitations imposed by bread loafing to be overcome to provide reduced critical dimension elements.
US07754515B2 Compound semiconductor and method for producing same
A group III-V compound semiconductor comprising a single quantum well structure which has two barrier layers and a quantum well layer represented by the formula: InxGayAlzN (wherein x+y+z=1, 0
US07754513B2 Latch-up resistant semiconductor structures on hybrid substrates and methods for forming such semiconductor structures
Latch-up resistant semiconductor structures formed on a hybrid substrate and methods of forming such latch-up resistant semiconductor structures. The hybrid substrate is characterized by first and second semiconductor regions that are formed on a bulk semiconductor region. The second semiconductor region is separated from the bulk semiconductor region by an insulating layer. The first semiconductor region is separated from the bulk semiconductor region by a conductive region of an opposite conductivity type from the bulk semiconductor region. The buried conductive region thereby the susceptibility of devices built using the first semiconductor region to latch-up.
US07754506B2 Method of fabricating submicron suspended objects and application to the mechanical characterization of said objects
A method of fabricating submicron objects that includes the following steps: depositing a void layer on a support, depositing a transfer layer on the void layer, producing the objects in the transfer layer, producing a hard mask on a portion of the transfer layer to delimit a region comprising a portion of the objects, and etching the combination formed by the hard mask, the transfer layer and the void layer to eliminate the hard mask and the portion of the transfer layer in the region and to open up the portion of the void layer under the region so that the objects are suspended, the rate of etching the void layer being greater than the rate of etching the transfer layer and the hard mask.
US07754505B1 Method of forming a silicon-based light-emitting structure
A silicon-based light emitting structure is formed as a high density array of light-emitting p-n junctions that substantially increases the intensity of the light emitted in a planar region. The p-n junctions are formed using standard CMOS processing methods, and emit light in response to applied voltages that generate avalanche breakdown and an avalanche current.
US07754501B2 Method for manufacturing ferroelectric capacitor
A method for manufacturing a ferroelectric capacitor includes the steps of: forming a base dielectric film on a substrate, and forming a first plug conductive section in the base dielectric film at a predetermined position; forming, on the base dielectric film, a charge storage section formed from a lower electrode, a ferroelectric film and an upper electrode; forming a stopper film from an insulation material that covers the charge storage section; forming a hydrogen barrier film that covers the stopper film; forming an interlayer dielectric film on the base dielectric film including the hydrogen barrier film; forming, in the interlayer dielectric film, a first contact hole that exposes the first plug conductive section; forming a second contact hole that exposes the upper electrode of the charge storage section by successively etching the interlayer dielectric film, the hydrogen barrier film and the stopper film by using a resist pattern as a mask, and then removing the resist pattern by a wet cleaning treatment; forming an adhesion layer from a conductive material having hydrogen barrier property inside the second contact hole in a manner to cover an upper surface of the upper electrode; forming a second plug conductive section inside the first contact hole; and forming a third plug conductive section inside the second contact hole, wherein the stopper film is formed from a material having a lower etching rate for a cleaning liquid used for the wet cleaning treatment to remove the resist pattern than an etching rate of the hydrogen barrier film for the cleaning liquid.
US07754500B2 Asymmetrically branched polymer conjugates and microarray assays
Asymmetrically branched polymers are combined with bioactive agents for a variety of purposes including drug delivery and conjugation to one member of a binding pair for use in an assay.
US07754498B2 Self-encoding sensor with microspheres
A microsphere-based analytic chemistry system is disclosed in which self-encoding microspheres having distinct characteristic optical response signatures to specific target analytes may be mixed together while the ability is retained to identify the sensor type and location of each sensor in a random dispersion of large numbers of such sensors in a sensor array using an optically interrogatable encoding scheme. An optical fiber bundle sensor is also disclosed in which individual microsphere sensors are disposed in microwells at a distal end of the fiber bundle and are optically coupled to discrete fibers or groups of fibers within the bundle. The identities of the individual sensors in the array are self-encoded by exposing the array to a reference analyte while illuminating the array with excitation light energy. A single sensor array may carry thousands of discrete sensing elements whose combined signal provides for substantial improvements in sensor detection limits, response times and signal-to-noise ratios.
US07754494B1 Apparatus for the sterile transfer of fluids
A method, and apparatus for transferring a fluid to a sterile field includes the use of a sterile enclosure (58, 68) housing a syringe (40). The enclosure (58, 68) is made in two parts, and allows the syringe (40) to be operated while it is in the enclosure. When it is desired to pass the fluids to the sterile field, the enclosure is separated into at least two parts to allow the syringe to be removed. This removal of the syringe is done such that the user in the non-sterile field does not touch the syringe. Thus, the syringe, and fluid therein are easily transferred to the sterile field.
US07754490B2 Microfluidic preconditioning of (bio)fluids for reagent-free infrared clinical analysis and diagnostics
A number of reagent-free infrared spectroscopic diagnostic and analytical methods have been established previously, making use of dry biofluid films. For example, this approach has successfully measured high concentration analytes of serum and urine. However, a number of low concentration diagnostically relevant analytes presently elude detection by infrared spectroscopy. This is due in part to their relatively low concentration and in part to spectral interference by other strongly absorbing constituents. The applicability of the technique would be broadened substantially if it were possible to separate and concentrate, lower concentration analytes, e.g. serum creatinine and urine proteins, from the obscuring presence of relatively high concentration compounds. The invention disclosed achieves this is through microfluidic sample preconditioning based upon laminar fluid diffusion interfaces. Preferential separation of certain low concentration serum and urine analytes of clinical interest that presently lie just below the threshold of detection by infrared spectroscopy is provided.
US07754488B2 Rapid analysis of functional fluids
The invention relates to a method to analyze the condition of a functional fluid comprising: (1) obtaining a sample of the used fluid; (2) placing the sample of the fluid to a test medium; (3) reacting the fluid with an indicator in the test medium; (4) analyzing visually the results of the reactor resulting in the determination of the condition of the fluid. Further an apparatus for analyzing functional fluids is disclosed in the form of a test medium consisting of an absorbent or nonabsorbent material which has been treated with a chemical indicator, marker substance or a developer or detector reagent upon which a sample of the fluid to be tested is placed. The components in the treated test medium react with components in the test fluid providing a visual indication, for example a color change, to judge the condition, the presence of a marker substance or another parameter of the fluid. The functional fluid may be a lubricant, fuel or other functional fluid of innumerable sources, including internal combustion engines, turbines, transmissions, differentials, pumps, metalworking operations, cooling systems, etc, and be either organic solvent or aqueous based.
US07754486B2 Culture medium named MV06 for both endothelial and myocardiac cells
A culture medium named MV06 enabling growth in vitro of both endothelial progenitor and myocardiac progenitor cells, composed of: Iscove's Modified Dubellco's Medium, Fetal calf serum, Horse serum, L-Glutamin (200 mM (100×)) Penicillin (10000 u/mL)/Streptomycin (1000 μg/mL), Hu-R Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2 (BMP-2), Hu-R Fibroblast Growth Factor 2 (FGF2), and Hu-R Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF).
US07754485B2 Culture medium for rapid detection of mycobacterial growth by color change
The diagnosis of mycobacteria may be made by growing bacteria from clinical samples in a culture media. The culture medium enables rapid detection of mycobacterial growth by changing its color. It also differentiates mycobacterial growth from contamination by changing to a different color when other species of microorganisms grow. Different types of culture media may be obtained by adding antimicrobial drugs to either obtain a medium selective for mycobacteria or a medium for species differentiation or susceptibility testing of drugs.
US07754481B2 Keratinocytes useful for the treatment of wounds
The invention relates to new keratinocytes which may be cultured in vitro and the advantageous use thereof for preparing a product which can be used to treat acute and chronic wounds.
US07754477B2 Incubator
An object of the invention is to provide a multigas incubator capable of shortening humidity-returning time after closing its door. The incubator comprises an adiabatic box main body having an opening on a front face thereof, an adiabatic door mounted on the adiabatic box main body in an openable and closable manner, a transparent inner door for openably closing the opening, and an incubation room surrounded by the inner door and the adiabatic box main body for incubating samples such as cells, microbes and the like. The adiabatic box main body comprises an outer box made of a metal, an inner box made of a metal, a heat insulating material arranged inside the outer box between the outer and inner boxes, and an air layer arranged more inside than the heat insulating material. Gases supplied for controlling concentrations of gases in the incubation room are jetted into humidification water.
US07754474B2 Sample processing device compression systems and methods
Sample processing systems and methods of using those systems for processing sample materials located in sample processing devices are disclosed. The sample processing systems include a rotating base plate on which the sample processing devices are located during operation of the systems. The systems also include a cover and compression structure designed to force a sample processing device towards the base plate. The preferred result is that the sample processing device is forced into contact with a thermal structure on the base plate. The systems and methods of the present invention may include one or more of the following features to enhance thermal coupling between the thermal structure and the sample processing device: a shaped transfer surface, magnetic compression structure, and floating or resiliently mounted thermal structure. The methods may preferably involve deformation of a portion of a sample processing device to conform to a shaped transfer surface.
US07754473B2 Temperature control of reaction vessel, system with reaction vessel, software product for system and use of system
A method for rapid thermal control of a reaction volume from a preceding temperature to a target temperature includes first bringing at least the reaction vessel's second wall, which has high thermal conductivity, into direct contact with a first thermal block at a temperature higher than the target temperature if the target temperature is higher than the preceding temperature, or at a temperature lower than the target temperature if the target temperature is lower than the preceding temperature, until the reaction volume temperature is at least close to the target temperature; and then bringing the second wall into direct contact with a second thermal block at the target temperature. Also disclosed is a system (20) for detecting and/or quantitating a biological and/or chemical analyte in a sample and a software product for the system.
US07754472B2 Device and method for detecting analytes by visualization and separation of agglutination
The invention relates to a device for detecting one or several analytes in a sample, characterized in that it comprises one or more reaction chambers and/or one or more reagent application channels, and one or more capillary systems and one or more negative vessels. The invention also relates to a method for detecting one or more analytes in a sample fluid by visualization of agglutination, characterized in that a) the sample fluid is brought into contact with a reagent, b) the reaction mixture is exposed to the effects of gravitation or magnetism, wherein the reaction mixture is strained through the capillary system of the inventive device with a negative vessel connected to the inventive device, and c) the reaction between the analyte and the reagent is determined. The invention also relates to one such method wherein the reaction mixture is brought into contact with another reagent during step b). The invention further relates to a method wherein the order of the individual steps consisting of a) and b) are reversed, particularly when the sample fluid is brought into contact with a reagent only during the effects of gravitation or magnetism.
US07754470B2 Nitroreductase enzymes for bioremediation
Compositions and methods are provided for bioremediation of toxic metals.
US07754469B2 Microorganisms and methods for treating poultry
An isolated Bacillus strain LSSAO1 is provided. When fed to a bird, this and other Bacillus strains described herein provide benefits to the birds. For example, administration of the one or more Bacillus strain can increase low G+C, gram positive bacteria in the gastrointestinal flora of the bird. These type of bacteria are increased by antibiotics and include beneficial Clostridium. Administration of the one or more Bacillus strain can also inhibit pathogen in the bird, such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Clostridium. These benefits can enhance feed conversion in poultry. Useful combinations of Bacillus strains and methods of using one or more Bacillus strain are also provided.
US07754467B2 Surface expression of biologically active proteins in bacteria
Methods and compositions for targeting heterologous polypeptides to bacterial cell walls are provided.
US07754466B2 Method for producing dipeptides
The present invention provides a method of producing a dipeptide from starting materials that are available at low costs through a route industrially advantageous and simple. Dipeptides are produced from amino acid esters and amino acids by using a culture of a microbe having an ability to produce a dipeptide from an amino acid ester and an amino acid, microbial cells separated from the culture, or treated microbial cell product.
US07754464B2 Cellular permissivity factor for viruses and uses thereof
The present invention provides methods and compositions related to the generation of host cells permissive for virus growth, particularly Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) virus.
US07754463B2 Inhibitors of USP1 Deubiquitinating Enzyme Complex
The invention provides compositions and methods used to inhibit USP1 deubiquitinase activity and to identify new inhibitors of USP1 deubiquitinase. The inhibitors can be used to treat or prevent cancer, bone marrow failure, and damage to cells or DNA resulting from genotoxic agents such as antineoplasic agents, including chemotherapeutic agents and radiation. The inhibitors include siRNA directed at inhibiting the expression of USP1 or UAF1, a protein which forms a heterodimeric complex with USP1. The inhibitors can be used to enhance cell survival if administered either before or after radiation exposure. Methods are also provided to enhance chemotherapy or radiotherapy of cancer and to enhance DNA repair. Transgenic knockout animals and knockdown cells are provided, whose USP1 expression is impaired.
US07754461B2 Large-scale production of human serum butyrylcholinesterase as a bioscavenger
Disclosed herein are methods for the large-scale preparation of human butyrylcholinesterase (HuBChE) preparations from Cohn Fraction IV-4. As disclosed, the methods provide HuBChE preparations that are about 99% or more pure with recovery yields of about 60%. Also disclosed are the pharmacokinetics, safety and toxicity, stability and efficacy of the HuBChE preparations.
US07754455B2 Biocatalytic manufacturing of (meth) acrylylcholine or 2-(N, N-dimethylamino) ethyl (meth) acrylate
A biocatalytic method for the synthesis of 2-(N,N-dimethyl amino)ethanol and/or choline esters of acrylic acid and/or methacrylic acid comprising reacting 2-(N,N-dimethylamino)ethanol and/or choline with acrylyl-CoA and/or methacrylyl-coA in the presence of a biocatalyst with choline acetyltransferase activity. The acrylyl-CoA and/or the methacrylyl CoA is formed by the reaction of acrylate and/or methacrylate with coenzyme A in the presence of ATP and a biocatalyst with S-acetyl coenzyme A synthetase activity.
US07754453B2 Methods of using FET labeled oligonucleotides that include a 3′-5′ exonuclease resistant quencher domain and compositions for practicing the same
Methods and compositions are provided for detecting a primer extension product in a reaction mixture. In the subject methods, a primer extension reaction is conducted in the presence of a polymerase having 3′→5′ exonuclease activity and at least one FET labeled oligonucleotide probe that includes a 3′→5′ exonuclease resistant quencher domain. Also provided are systems and kits for practicing the subject methods. The subject invention finds use in a variety of different applications, and are particularly suited for use in high fidelity PCR based reactions, including SNP detection applications, allelic variation detection applications, and the like.
US07754451B2 Multiplex oligonucleotide addition and target amplification
Methods for appending oligonucleotides directly to nucleic acid templates, particularly to defined sites internal to single-stranded templates, are described. Appending first and second common priming sites to each of a plurality of templates of distinct sequence allows the subsequent stoichiometric amplification of a plurality of templates of distinct sequence.
US07754450B2 Methods of generating high-production of antibodies from hybridomas created by in vitro immunization
The invention provides methods for generating high titers of high-affinity antibodies from hybridoma cells produced by fusing myeloma cells with in vitro immunized donor cells. The hybridoma cells or mammalian expression cells with cloned antibody genes from the hybridomas producing the high-affinity antibodies may be mismatch repair defective due to defects of endogenous mismatch repair subunits of through expression of a dominant negative allele of a mismatch repair gene which allows the hybridoma cell to be hypermutable, may be rendered hypermutable by chemical means, or may be naturally mismatch repair deficient. High-affinity antibodies and high titer producer cells producing antibodies may be prepared by the methods of the invention.
US07754439B2 Method and system for the analysis of high density cells samples
Methods for forming cell arrays of multiple cell samples arranged substantially in a monolayer on a single substrate particularly suited for diagnostic analysis are disclosed. The cell arrays are formed with a high-speed dispensing apparatus capable of dispensing small volumes in precise, complex patterns. Also disclosed are substrates upon which cell arrays may be formed, and methods for conducting diagnostic analyses on the formed cell arrays.
US07754437B2 Method for checking and controlling the mammalian lactic acid fermentation process / aerobic glucose fermentation metabolic pathway in mammalian organism
The method for qualitative and quantitative detecting of the extend of use and the correct process flow of the mammalian aerobic glucose fermentation metabolic pathway (mam-aGF) in a mammalian individual is characterized in that the enzyme TKTL1 is used as indicator and target molecule and that the structural and/or functional parameter of said TKTL1 in a biological sample of said individual (patient) are taken as indication for the qualitative and quantitative run of the mam-aGF in the cells and/or tissue of said individual (patient). In combination with the use of inhibitors and activators of that mam-aGF the method is further suitable for checking and controlling the mam-aGF in an individual (patient).
US07754436B2 Diagnostic assay for stroke
Heart and brain fatty acid binding proteins (H-FABP, B-FABP) are markers for stroke. The invention provides a diagnostic assay for either of these markers, preferably by ELISA using a anti-H-FABP or B-FABP antibody. Since H-FABP is also a marker for acute myocardial infarction (AMI), to distinguish stroke from AMI requires an assay specific to AMI, e.g. using troponin-1 or CK-MB as a marker, also to be carried out.
US07754432B2 Methods for determining oligosaccharide binding
The invention relates to methods for detecting and characterizing enzymatic modifications of oligosaccharides, such as heparan sulfate, and their interaction with binding partners, such as proteins, using an oligosaccharide-binding partner binding assay, such as a gel mobility shift assay. The instant invention relates to a rapid, convenient, sensitive and inexpensive method for identifying or studying oligosaccharide-binding partner interactions, identifying and characterizing structural features on oligosaccharides, identifying and characterizing binding partners, identifying agents capable of interfering with, enhancing, or facilitating the binding of an oligosaccharide to its binding partner, diagnosing conditions associated with altered oligosaccharide-binding partner binding, and generating oligosaccharide libraries and kits therefor.
US07754430B2 Papilloma virus capsomere vaccine formulations and methods of use
Vaccine formulations comprising viral capsomeres are disclosed along with methods for their production. Therapeutic and prophylactic methods of use for the vaccine formulations are also disclosed.
US07754428B2 Fetal methylation markers
This application describes the discovery that, in a pregnant woman, certain genes (such as RASSF1A, APC, CASP8, RARB, SCGB3A1, DAB2IP, PTPN6, THY1, TMEFF2, and PYCARD) originated from a fetus are highly methylated, whereas the same genes of maternal origin are unmethylated. This discovery allows the easy detection of one or more of these methylated fetal genes in a biological sample from a pregnant woman, serving as a universal indicator of the presence of fetal DNA in the sample. These fetal methylation markers are particularly useful as positive controls for a non-invasive analytical process during which the quality and quantity of fetal DNA are monitored. These newly identified fetal markers can also be measured directly for diagnosis of certain pregnancy-related conditions.
US07754427B2 Parallel high throughput single molecule sequencing process
The invention relates to a process and to an apparatus for parallel high throughput sequencing of nucleic acid molecules, in particular in the single molecule format. The present invention further relates to a process and an apparatus for a parallel high throughput study of enzyme-substrate interactions, in particular in the single molecule format.
US07754426B2 Method for diagnosis of glioma: distinguishing between progressive and de novo types
The present invention relates to a method for identifying the type of glioblastoma multiforme in mammals, preferably human subjects. More particularly, it relates to a kit for characterizing progressive glioma in mammals, preferably human subjects. More particularly, it relates to a kit for distinguishing primary and secondary glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) in mammals, preferably human subjects.
US07754423B2 Methods for predicting the risk of diabetic nephropathy using genetic markers and arrays containing the same
Disclosed is a method for detecting a Chinese diabetic subject suffering from, at risk for developing, or suspected of suffering from a nephropathy. The method includes determining whether a sample from the subject has at least one polymorphic sequence selected from the group consisting of polymorphic sequences an I/D genotype of an ACE gene, an M235T genotype of an AGT gene, a (CA) n-5′ (z-2) genotype of an ALR2 gene, an C106T genotype of an ALR2 gene in the promoter region, a G-308A genotype of a TNF-α gene, and a complement thereof, provided that the ALR2 gene cannot be used alone, in which the presence of the polymorphic sequence indicates the subject suffering from, or at risk for suffering from a nephropathy. Also provided is an array for detecting a Chinese diabetic subject suffering from, or at risk for suffering from a nephropathy.
US07754413B2 Color forming composition with enhanced image stability
A radiation image-able coating includes a first phase including a radiation curable polymer matrix and an activator disposed in the radiation curable polymer matrix, a second phase insolubly distributed in the first phase, the second phase including a color-former, and a sensitizing agent distributed in at least one of the first and second phase, wherein the first phase includes a radiation curable polymer matrix containing at least one high glass transition temperature (Tg) monofunctional monomer or oligomer having a Tg greater than approximately 60° C.
US07754410B2 Production method of static charge image developing toner and screen device
To provide a method for producing a toner for developing an electrostatic charge image, which is capable of producing toner host particles in good yield and which is excellent in image characteristics, image quality, scratch resistance of a developing device and toner consumption, and a screen device which is capable of screening continuously without clogging.A method for producing a toner for developing an electrostatic charge image, which comprises a step of screening a dispersion of toner host particles by a screen, characterized in that when the above step is carried out, Y≦{1/(M2+r2+2Mr)}×108×0.6 is satisfied where Y is the number of particles (number/cm2) existing on the screen and having sizes of at least the mesh size of the screen, M is the mesh size (μm) of the screen, and r is the diameter (μm) of wire constituting the screen; a screen device characterized in that the screen is one wherein the shape of the minimum opening unit to let particles pass therethrough, changes from the stationary state by vibration in the screening step; a screen device characterized in that the screen is one to which substantially no tension is applied; and a method for producing a toner for developing an electrostatic charge image, which employs such a screen device.
US07754409B2 Toner manufacturing method
The present invention is a method of manufacturing toner particles that includes providing a first emulsion of a first aqueous phase comprising a pore stabilizing hydrocolloid dispersed in an organic solution containing a polymer. The first emulsion is dispersed in a second aqueous phase to form a second emulsion that is sheared in the presence of a stabilizing agent to form droplets of the first emulsion in the second aqueous phase. The organic solution is evaporated from the droplets to form porous toner particles.
US07754405B2 Toner for electronic printing, and process for producing glass plate having electric conductor pattern
Toners having toner matrix particles having conductive fine particles, a heat decomposable binder resin and glass frit, and heat decomposable organic resin fine particles attached on the surface of the toner matrix particles. The heat decomposition temperature of the organic resin in the heat decomposable organic resin fine particles is lower than the heat decomposition temperature of the heat decomposable binder resin.
US07754401B2 Method for manufacturing a surface and integrated circuit using variable shaped beam lithography
A method is disclosed in which a plurality of variable shaped beam (VSB) shots is used to form a desired pattern on a surface. Shots within the plurality of shots are allowed to overlap each other. Dosages of the shots may also be allowed to vary. The union of the plurality of shots may deviate from the desired pattern. The plurality of shots may be determined such that a pattern on the surface calculated from the plurality of shots is within a predetermined tolerance of the desired pattern. In some embodiments, an optimization technique may be used to minimize shot count. In other embodiments, the plurality of shots may be optionally selected from one or more pre-computed VSB shots or groups of VSB shots. The method of the present disclosure may be used, for example, in the process of manufacturing an integrated circuit by optical lithography using a reticle, or in the process of manufacturing an integrated circuit using direct write.
US07754399B2 Methods of forming reticles
The invention includes reticle constructions and methods of forming reticle constructions. In a particular aspect, a method of forming a reticle includes provision of a reticle substrate having a defined main-field region and a defined boundary region. The substrate has a relatively transparent base and a relatively opaque material over the base. A thickness of the relatively opaque material of the main-field region is reduced relative to a thickness of the relatively opaque material of the boundary region. A reticle construction of the present invention can comprise a relatively transparent base, and a relatively opaque material over the base. The construction can have a defined main-field region and a defined boundary region, and the relatively opaque material of the main-field region can have a reduced thickness relative to the relatively opaque material of the boundary region.
US07754393B2 Modular fuel-cell stack assembly
A fuel cell assembly having a plurality of fuel cells arranged in a stack. An end plate assembly abuts the fuel cell at an end of said stack. The end plate assembly has an inlet area adapted to receive an exhaust gas from the stack, an outlet area and a passage connecting the inlet area and outlet area and adapted to carry the exhaust gas received at the inlet area from the inlet area to the outlet area. A further end plate assembly abuts the fuel cell at a further opposing end of the stack. The further end plate assembly has a further inlet area adapted to receive a further exhaust gas from the stack, a further outlet area and a further passage connecting the further inlet area and further outlet area and adapted to carry the further exhaust gas received at the further inlet area from the further inlet area to the further outlet area.
US07754392B2 Fuel cell system and fuel gas control method
A nitrogen concentration of fuel gas is estimated, and an amount of discharged fuel off-gas that is discharged from a fuel off-gas passage to outside by a discharging mechanism is controlled depending on the estimated nitrogen concentration. The nitrogen concentration, for example, can be estimated from a rate of pressure drop in the fuel off-gas passage during the discharge of fuel off-gas.
US07754390B2 Manufacturing method of negative electrode for nonaqueous electrolytic rechargeable battery, and nonaqueous electrolytic rechargeable battery using it
A negative electrode for a nonaqueous electrolytic rechargeable battery capable of storing and discharging lithium ions is manufactured in the steps of forming a lithium metal layer on a carrier substrate by a gas phase method, superimposing the surface of the lithium metal layer formed on the carrier substrate on a negative electrode active material layer formed on a collecting body, storing the lithium metal layer into the negative electrode active material layer in nonaqueous electrolyte, and removing the carrier substrate from the negative electrode active material layer.
US07754388B2 Nonaqueous electrolyte and nonaqueous-electrolyte battery
The object is to provide a nonaqueous-electrolyte battery having high charge/discharge efficiency and excellent high-rate performance. This subject is accomplished by using a nonaqueous electrolyte which comprises an organic solvent and a lithium salt dissolved therein and is characterized by containing at least one quaternary ammonium salt in an amount of 0.06 mol/L or larger and 0.5 mol/L or smaller. This effect is thought to be attributable to the following mechanism: in a relatively early stage (stage in which the negative-electrode potential is relatively noble) in a first charge step, a satisfactory protective coating film is formed on the negative electrode by the action of the quaternary ammonium salt and, hence, the organic solvent employed in the nonaqueous electrolyte is inhibited from decomposing.
US07754384B2 High-voltage positive electrode material having a spinel structure based on nickel and manganese for lithium cell batteries
A spinel structure compound of the formula LiNi0.4Mn1.6O4-δ, wherein δ>0, has a lattice parameter of from 8.179 to 8.183 Å. The compound may be prepared by mixing carbonated precursors under stoichiometric conditions to produce a mixture, subjecting the mixture to a first heat treatment at a temperature of from 500 to 700° C., and then subjecting the mixture to one or more annealing treatments at a temperature of from 700 to 950° C., followed by cooling in a medium containing oxygen. The spinel structure compound may be used as an electrochemically active material in an electrode, for example an electrode of a battery.
US07754380B2 Nonaqueous electrolyte solution and lithium secondary battery using same
The present invention provides a nonaqueous electrolytic solution exhibiting excellent battery characteristics such as electrical capacity, cycle property and storage property and capable of maintaining the battery characteristics for a long tire, and a lithium secondary battery using the nonaqueous electrolytic solution.A nonaqueous electrolytic solution for a lithium secondary battery, in which an electrolyte salt is dissolved in a nonaqueous solvent, containing 0.1 to 10% by weight of an ethylene carbonate derivative represented by the general formula (I) shown below, and 0.01 to 10% by weight of (A) a triple bond-containing compound and/or (B) a pentafluorophenyloxy compound represented by the general formula (X) shown below: wherein R1 to R3 each independently represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, an alkenyl group, an alkynyl group or an aryl group, provided that ethylene carbonate is excluded from the definition of the ethylene carbonate derivative, wherein R15 represents an alkylcarbonyl group, an alkoxycarbonyl group, an aryloxycarbonyl group or an alkanesulfonyl group.
US07754379B2 Secondary battery
A secondary battery has a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate enclosed within an internal space of a housing. Positive and negative electrode terminals are plate-shaped, are respectively connected to the positive and negative electrode plates and extend externally from the housing at two different portions of the outer edge thereof. The positive electrode terminal has a first part fixedly adjoined to a second part formed of conductive material(s) having a higher tensile strength than those of the first part. The second part is located outside of the internal space, and a first end of the first part extends into the internal space while its second end is fixedly adjoined to the second part. The secondary battery disclosed herein may possess improved longevity and resistance to electrode terminal vibration.
US07754372B2 Lithium secondary battery
A lithium secondary battery having a cap assembly including a cap plate, an insulation plate and a terminal plate. The insulation plate and the terminal plate each have a predetermined vent hole corresponding to a safety vent formed on the cap plate so that if the secondary battery is dropped, an electrolyte passes through the vent-holes and undergoes a pressure reduction, thereby preventing fracture of a safety vent by the electrolyte while allowing gas to be exhausted upon battery overcharge, full discharge or by overheating.
US07754371B2 Fuel cell disassembly method
Respective heaters 21 through 24 receive power supply and start heating. The heaters 21 through 24 keep heating sealing layers 8 to or over a softening temperature at which the sealing layers 8 are softened or molten. After the sealing layers 8 are softened or molten to weaken the adhesive force between a pair of separators 6 and 7, the heaters 21 through 24 are detached from a fuel cell 10. The worker then completely separates the pair of separators 6 and 7 from each other with some tool or by hand and removes an MEA 2 from the fuel cell 10.
US07754370B2 Fuel cell catalyst material, fuel cell electrode, membrane-electrode assembly, fuel cell, fuel cell catalyst material manufacturing method, and fuel cell electrode manufacturing method
This invention provides a fuel cell catalyst material containing catalyst particles having a composition substantially represented by ATxNu  (1) wherein A contains Pt or Pt and at least one noble metal element selected from the group consisting of Ru, Pd, Au, and Ag, T contains at least one element selected from the group consisting of Fe, Co, Ni, Sn, Mn, Cr, V, Ti, Mo, Nb, Zr, W, Ta, and Hf, and atomic ratios x and u fall within the ranges 0≦x≦4 and 0.005≦u≦1, respectively.
US07754369B2 Ink for producing membrane electrode assemblies for fuel cells
An ink is disclosed for producing membrane electrode assemblies for fuel cells which contains a catalyst material, an ionomer, water and an organic solvent. The ink is characterized in that the organic solvent is at least one compound from the group of linear dialcohols with a flash point higher than 100° C. and is present in the ink in a concentration between 1 and 50 wt. %, with respect to the weight of water.
US07754367B2 Solid bonded interconnect system in a lightweight solid oxide fuel cell stack
An interconnect system including: a separator plate to provide an anode gas flow space; a first metal interconnect disposed between the separator plate and an anode surface; a nickel oxide paste applied in a pattern over the surface of the anode and adjacent surface of the separator plate which when sintered results in a first conductive layer bonded to the anode and the first interconnect, and a second conductive layer bonded to the first interconnect and the separator plate; a second metal interconnect disposed between a cathode surface of the cell and the separator plate of an adjacent cell cassette; and a silver-containing paste applied over the surface of the cathode and the separator plate which when sintered results in a third conductive layer bonded to the cathode and the second interconnect, and a fourth conductive layer bonded to the second interconnect and the separator plate.
US07754358B2 Fuel cell component having a retrieval code
A fuel cell (10) includes a lamination (11) of a plurality of unit cells (30), current collector plates (12, 12) arranged at both ends of the lamination (11), end plates 16, 16 respectively provided outside the current collector plates (12, 12) with 5 insulating plates (14, 14) interposed therebetween, and fastening members (18) for fastening the end plates (16, 16) in the laminating direction to apply desired pressing force to the lamination (11). A barcode (41) corresponding to particular information relating to a unit cell (30) is provided on the exposed side surface of a separator (38) of the unit cell (30). According to this fuel cell (10), the barcode 41 can be easily read requiring no disassembly of the fuel cell (10). Moreover, as the information relating to the fuel cell can be obtained from the barcode (41), the information that cannot be determined from outer appearance can be obtained, resulting in improved service operations.
US07754354B2 Patterned medium and method of manufacturing the same
A patterned medium and a method of manufacturing the same are provided. The patterned medium includes a data region having a plurality of recording dots arrayed along a plurality of tracks; and a non-data region comprising a part of the patterned medium other than the data region, the non-data region having a plurality of pattern marks. The method includes depositing an aluminum layer on a base substrate; depositing a photo-resist on the aluminum layer; forming a pattern on the photo-resist using a lithography process; forming a fine pattern by forming a plurality of cavities on a portion of the aluminum layer which is exposed through the photo-resist; removing the photo-resist; forming a mold pattern; imprinting the mold pattern on a media substrate to form cavities on the media substrate; and filling the cavities with a recording material.
US07754353B2 Method and structure for ultra-high density, high data rate ferroelectric storage disk technology using stabilization by a surface conducting layer
A method and structure for a ferroelectric storage medium, includes a metallic underlayer and a ferroelectric data layer over the metallic underlayer. A layer over the ferroelectric data layer has a charge migration rate faster than a charge migration rate of the ferroelectric data layer.
US07754350B2 Wear-resistant coating
A coating suitable for use as a wear-resistant coating for a gas turbine engine component comprises titanium chrome carbonitride and nickel cobalt.
US07754346B2 Organic electroluminescent device
The invention provides an organic electroluminescent device including an organic compound layer provided between a pair of electrodes. The organic compound layer has at least a luminescent layer. The luminescent layer has at least a metal complex containing a tri- or higher-dentate ligand and plurality of host compounds. The metal complex is preferably a metal complex capable of obtaining light emission from a triplet exciton. The ligand of the metal complex is preferably chained or cyclic. Further, an ionization potential of the metal complex is preferably larger than a minimum value out of ionization potentials of the plurality of host compounds.
US07754343B2 Ternary alloy column grid array
Techniques and structures have been developed for providing lead-free column grid array interconnect structures. An exemplary interconnect has a body, a first joint, and a second joint, all having compositions off the eutectic composition in a ternary alloy system, the first joint having a ternary composition distinct from the body composition, and the second joint having a ternary composition distinct from the body composition and the first joint composition. The interconnect may be formed by solidifying a solder, having a Sn-poor ternary composition in the Sn—Ag—Cu alloy system, in contact with a column, having a Ag-rich Cu-deficient composition in the same system, and a bonding pad or bare substrate. A second solder, having a Sn-rich ternary composition, may be solidified in contact with the column and a second bonding pad or bare substrate. In some embodiments joints may be severed and reformed by remelting and resolidifying the lower-liquidus solder.
US07754336B2 Carbon nanotube glazing technology
The invention provides a glazing that includes a substrate on which there is provided a coating comprising carbon nanotubes. The glazing can be an IG unit comprising two spaced-apart panes bounding a between-pane space, the IG unit having at least one exterior surface on which there is provided a transparent conductor coating comprising carbon nanotubes. The glazing can alternatively be a laminated glass assembly comprising two panes of glass and an interlayer comprising carbon nanotubes sandwiched therebetween. Monolithic substrate embodiments are also provided. In certain embodiments, the coating comprises both dielectric film and carbon nanotubes.
US07754332B2 Thermal insulation structures comprising layers of expanded graphite particles compressed to different densities and thermal insulation elements made from these structures
Thermal insulation structure having at least one flexible layer based on compressed expanded graphite particles characterized in that the density of the said flexible layer is equal to at least 0.4 g/cm3 (400 kg/m3) and in that the thermal insulation structure also includes another layer close to the flexible layer based on compressed graphite particles with a lower density, typically less than 0.4 g/cm3 (400 kg/m3). Preferably, the dense compressed expanded graphite layer has a density of between 0.5 and 1.6 g/cm3 (500 and 1600 kg/m3) and the sub-dense compressed expanded graphite layer has a density of between 0.05 and 0.3 g/cm3 (50 and 300 kg/m3). Thermal insulation elements are also described that are designed to be fitted on furnaces operating under non-oxidizing atmosphere and at temperatures of more than 800° C.
US07754330B2 Organic silicon oxide core-shell particles and preparation method thereof, porous film-forming composition, porous film and formation method thereof, and semiconductor device
Provided are organic silicon oxide fine particles which can be formed into a porous film having a dielectric constant and mechanical strength expected as a high-performance porous insulating film and having excellent chemical stability, and a preparation method thereof. Described specifically, provided are an organic silicon oxide fine particle comprising a core containing at least an inorganic silicon oxide or an organic silicon oxide and a shell containing at least an organic silicon oxide and being formed around the core by using shell-forming hydrolyzable silane in the presence of a basic catalyst; wherein of silicon atoms constituting the core or the shell, a ratio (T/Q) of a number (T) of silicon atoms having at least one bond directly attached to a carbon atom to a number (Q) of silicon atoms having all of four bonds attached to an oxygen atom is greater in the shell than in the core; and wherein the shell-forming hydrolyzable silane comprise at least a hydrolyzable silane compound having two or more hydrolyzable-group-having silicon atoms bound to each other via a carbon chain or via a carbon chain containing one silicon atom between some carbon atoms.
US07754327B2 Absorbent articles comprising a radiation cured hot melt positioning adhesive
An article comprising an adhesive attachment region is provided. The adhesive attachment region comprises a radiation curable hot melt pressure sensitive adhesive.
US07754326B2 Release film, releasable cushion material and process for producing printed board
To provide a release film which does not need to be changed often for hot press and is easy to be changed; a releasable cushion material which can reduce the frequency of changing a cushion material main body; and a process for producing a printed board with good productivity and low cost.A release film 10 which is to be provided on a surface of a cushion material made of silicone rubber, and which has a layer 14 containing Si on one side of a substrate 12 made of a fluororesin; a releasable cushion material wherein the release film is provided on a surface of the cushion material made of silicone rubber so that the layer containing Si is located on the cushion material side; and a process for producing a printed board wherein, when a laminate of a printed board main body and coverlay films is subjected to hot press as sandwiched between press boards, the release film is disposed on a surface of the cushion material of the coverlay film side so that the layer containing Si is located on the cushion material side.
US07754323B2 Fiber-reinforced thermoplastic resin molded article, molding material, and method for production of the molded article
According to the present invention, a fiber-reinforced thermoplastic resin molded article in which monofilamentous carbon fibers are contained in a thermoplastic resin in a high content, such fibers having long fiber lengths and being randomly arranged, is provided. Also, a molding material comprising monofilamentous carbon fibers and monofilamentous thermoplastic resin fibers, in which the carbon fibers are contained in a high content, such fibers having long fiber lengths and being randomly arranged, is provided. In addition, a method for producing a fiber-reinforced thermoplastic resin molded article, comprising molding the molding material by compression molding, is provided.
US07754318B2 Water-soluble film
The present invention relates to a water-soluble film, which is a polyvinyl alcohol film comprising a polyvinyl alcohol resin (A), wherein the water-soluble film has a time for dissolution in water at 20° C. of not more than 60 seconds in terms of a film thickness of 76 μm, a b-value of the film is not more than 0.5, and a b-value of the film after leaving at 80° C. for 72 hr is not more than 1.0, preferably a water-soluble film comprising: a polyvinyl alcohol resin (A); at least two kinds of plasticizers (B); and a sulfite salt (C), wherein the content of the plasticizer (B) based on 100 parts by weight of the polyvinyl alcohol resin (A) is 5 to 50 parts by weight and the content ratio of the sulfite salt (C) to the plasticizer (B) (C/B: weight ratio) is more than 0.02 and not more than 0.35. According to the invention, there is provided a water-soluble film comprising a PVA resin as a main component, wherein the film is less likely to cause coloration at the time of film formation and coloration with time even upon contact with a chemical.
US07754316B2 Coated cutting tool insert
The present invention relates to a CVD-coated cutting tool insert with a TiCxNy layer with a low tensile stress level of from about 50 to about 390 MPa and an α-Al2O3 layer with a high surface smoothness with a mean Ra is equal to or less than about 0.12 μm as measured by AFM-technique. This is obtained by subjecting the coating to an intensive wet blasting operation.