| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US07956846B2 |
Portable electronic device with content-dependent touch sensitivity
A portable electronic device, having a touch-sensitive display, displays a plurality of icons on the touch-sensitive display. A contact region when a user makes contact with the touch-sensitive display is detected. Whether the contact region corresponds to one of the plurality of icons is determined in accordance with an electrostatic model. |
| US07956845B2 |
Apparatus and method for providing virtual graffiti and recording medium for the same
An apparatus and method for providing a virtual graffiti function and a recording medium for the same. The apparatus for providing a virtual graffiti function includes: a touch-screen display for displaying information on its screen, and at the same time receiving user-entry data created by a user touching the screen; and a controller connected to the touch-screen display, which overlaps a graffiti screen image with a main screen image in a virtual graffiti area for providing a portion of the screen with virtual graffiti, classifies the user-entry data created by the user touching the screen into application execution entry data and graffiti entry data according to the touched position and/or method, and processes the classified user-entry data differently from each other. Therefore, the apparatus can effectively implement a graffiti function in a hand-held device limited in size, and can also provide an effective recording medium. |
| US07956840B2 |
Electro-optical device, driving method, and electronic apparatus
An electro-optical device includes: a plurality of data lines blocked for every “m” (m is an integer of 2 or greater) columns; a sampling signal output circuit which outputs sampling signals; and a sampling circuit which has sampling switches provided in the data lines, respectively, and which turns on the sampling switches to sample data signals supplied to “n” (n is an integer of 2 or greater) image signal lines, to the data lines. The sampling circuit groups the blocks for every “n” blocks, makes individual blocks in the same group correspond to different image signal lines, respectively, to connect the sampling switches in the individual blocks to corresponding image signal lines, supplies one sampling signal to two adjacent groups, and when any one sampling signal is supplied, simultaneously turns on sampling switches in the same columns in “n” blocks belonging to one group of two groups. |
| US07956838B2 |
Display device, instrument panel, automatic vehicle, and method of driving display device
A display device includes an illuminator; a display panel for performing displaying by using light which is emitted from the illuminator; and a control circuit for controlling the illuminator. The illuminator includes a plurality of light source blocks, at least one light source belonging to each of the plurality of light source blocks. A displaying region of the display panel has a plurality of regions each performing displaying by using light which is emitted from a respective one of the light source blocks. The control circuit detects a level of a display signal which is input to each of the plurality of regions, and is capable of controlling a luminance of the respective light source block in accordance with the detected level of the display signal. |
| US07956834B2 |
Method for driving liquid crystal display and apparatus employing the same
Provided are a method and apparatus for driving a liquid crystal display. The apparatus includes: a moving image detector which reads an input signal frame by frame and compares gray-scale data of a previous frame to gray-scale data of the current frame to detect a moving pattern; a gray-scale difference calculator which calculates a gray-scale difference in the detected pattern to discriminate the boundary of the pattern from the inside of the pattern; and an output processor that generates an over-driving voltage for over-driving pixels corresponding to the inside of the pattern and applies the over-driving voltage to pixels of liquid crystal. |
| US07956828B2 |
Organic electroluminescence display device and method for driving the same
In an organic electroluminescence display device (30) comprising an organic EL element (26) having a structure wherein an organic luminescent medium (24) is sandwiched between a top electrode (20) and a bottom electrode (22), and a driving circuit (14) for driving the organic EL element (26), the organic luminescent medium (24) comprises a host compound and a triplet-related luminous compound and the driving circuit (14) applies a electric pulse voltage or pulse current having a frequency of 30 Hz or more and a duty ratio of 1/5 or less. In this way, it is possible to provide an organic EL display device which consumes a low electric power and has a long luminous life span, and a method for driving the same. |
| US07956827B2 |
Driving circuit using pulse width modulation technique for a light emitting device
A current driving apparatus and method using a pulse width modulation (PWM) technique to display a desired gray level for passive matrix organic light emitting diode (PMOLED) display applications is disclosed. The current driving circuit includes a memory, a logic and a segment driver. The memory stores a desired gray level, the logic comprises a counter and provides a predetermined bias time, and the segment driver provides a constant current to the PMOLED display based on the desired gray level and the predetermined bias time. The segment driver provides a constant current to the PMOLED display until the counter value reaches the desired gray level, and the counter is first counted zero for the predetermined bias time and then increments by one for every other cycle. |
| US07956822B2 |
Mounting mechanism and head-mounted image display apparatus
This specification discloses a mounting mechanism for a display portion onto the head in which the movement range of a wearer is not restricted and it becomes possible to make the display portion follow the head. This mounting mechanism has a head mounting portion for mounting the display portion on the head, a weight supporting portion mounted on any other body portion than the head for supporting part of the weight of the head mounting portion, and a connecting member for connecting the head mounting portion and the weight supporting portion together so that the head mounting portion may be movable following the movement of the head. |
| US07956820B2 |
Combined single/multiple view-display
The present invention relates to a display device comprising an outer display stacked with an inner display and being arranged to be operable in a first, multiple view mode and a second, single view mode. An idea of the invention is to arrange an electrophoretic display on top of an emissive display. The display device may be operated in two modes; a first mode being a multiple or dual view mode and a second mode being a single view mode. In order to activate the single view mode, the outer display is set in a transparent state and the inner display is turned on, such that it displays desired objects. In the multiple view mode, the outer display is functioning as a 3D-barrier. Hence, some of the picture elements of the outer display are set in a transparent state while others are set in an opaque state. The viewer sees a different picture with each respective eye, and will accordingly experience a multiple view picture of an object that is displayed on the inner display. |
| US07956815B2 |
Low-profile antenna structure
A low-profile antenna structure can control its directivity with great flexibility. Excited elements 11 and 12 are symmetrically arranged on a y-axis, whereas parasitic elements 13 and 14 are symmetrically arranged on an x-axis, with respect to an origin. The excited elements, as well as the parasitic elements, each have an inverted-F antenna structure and are a distance of λ/4 apart from each other. Feed circuits 21 and 22 are respectively connected to and feed signals to the excited elements 11 and 12, such that phases of the signals to be fed are different from each other by a desired degree. Variable reactors 23 and 24 (i) are respectively connected to the parasitic elements 13 and 14, and (ii) in accordance with reactance values thereof, can each change an electrical length of the corresponding one of the parasitic elements. |
| US07956813B2 |
Electronic device
An electronic device is described which includes multiple first antennas; at least one second antenna configured to be used in a different wireless communication system therefrom; a display panel for displaying an image; a panel casing including for covering the display panel, including the display panel; a placement frame having an upper-face portion disposed on the outer perimeter of the panel casing, and extended horizontally, and a pair of side-face portions, each protruding from a different side-edge portion of the upper-face portion in the direction orthogonal thereto; and an outer frame for covering the outer perimeter and the placement frame of the display panel from the display surface side of the display panel; wherein at least one first antenna is disposed on each of the upper-face portion and one side-face portion of the placement frame; and wherein at least one second antenna is disposed on the upper-face portion or the other side-face portion of the placement frame. |
| US07956809B2 |
Method and device for determining the speed of a moving entity
A method and a corresponding device determines the speed of a moving entity carrying at least two antennas for receiving a transmission signal the antennas being displaced at a predetermined distance. In order to provide a more simple and accurate method which can be used with different transmission signals the method includes the steps of: receiving a transmission signal by the antennas, determining signal characteristics from the transmission signal as received by the determining a time offset between the reception of the transmission signal at the antennas by comparing the signal characteristics determined for the antennas, and determining the speed of the moving entity from the determined time offset, the distance of the antennas and the direction of movement of the moving entity relative to the arrangement of the antennas. |
| US07956802B1 |
Integrity-optimized receiver autonomous integrity monitoring (RAIM) for vertical integrity monitoring
A vertical integrity monitoring method and system are described. The vertical integrity monitoring method includes determining a noise sigma ratio parameter. The method also includes determining two vertical protection limit slopes and an associated covariance matrix. The method further includes determining a vertical integrity limit and set of weights based on the VPL slopes, covariance and the parameter; and applying the set of weights based on the parameter to calculate a vertical solution. An integrity monitoring system may have hardware and/or software embodying the one or more methods described. |
| US07956800B2 |
Position measuring method and mobile communication terminal
A mobile communication terminal 10A, in a process of acquiring assistance information in advance for using for a GPS position measuring at step S10, makes a judgment of whether or not the assistance information is to be acquired, prior to the GPS position measuring command by a user. When a result of this judgment is affirmative, the terminal 10A transmits an assistance information request to a position measuring assistance server 50. When the assistance information is returned from the position measuring assistance server 50 in response to this the assistance information request, in the cellular phone 10A, the assistance information is received and stored, and then prepared for a command for position measuring by the user, for which possibility of being made is higher in a short period. As a result, it is possible to perform quickly the position measuring of a current location of the mobile communication terminal. |
| US07956798B2 |
Radar apparatus and radar picture display method
A radar apparatus having an integral ARPA function transmits at least two kinds of pulse signals, each of which has different pulselength, according to a specific transmission pattern and receives echoes of the transmitted pulse signal. The radar apparatus includes an echo data generator for generating display echo data for each range scale selected for on-screen presentation by using an echo signal obtained with each transmission pulselength, an ARPA processor for generating a single set of motion-related information on each tracked target to be superimposed on the display echo data by using echo signals obtained with the different pulselengths, a display output synthesizer for superimposing the motion-related information on each tracked target generated by the ARPA processor on the display echo data, and a display unit for displaying a superimposed picture produced by the display output synthesizer. |
| US07956796B2 |
Detecting device and railroad vehicle
A system according to the invention detects location information of a vehicle by using a reflection strength change of an electromagnetic wave. The system incorporates a radiowave transmitter which emits a first radiowave, positional markers which generate unique reflection strengths and patterns of temporal changes in the reflection strength from the emitted first radiowave at respective absolute positions, a radiowave receiver which receives a second radiowave reflected by the positional marker and converts the second radiowave into a signal format for extracting location information to output the same, and a marker recognition device which obtains a location of the vehicle from the output of the radiowave receiver. Accordingly, a highly-precise location specification with a resolution smaller than or equal to 1 cm and a highly-reliable location specification which is not affected by slip and slide of the vehicle's wheels can be realized. |
| US07956794B2 |
Short-range radar having a multiple sensor system for determining the location of objects enclosed in a medium
A radar device is described, in particular a hand-held short-range radar for determining the location of objects enclosed in a medium, including at least one radar sensor, which generates a first, high-frequency detection signal for penetrating a medium to be tested in such a way that information about an object enclosed in the medium can be obtained by measuring and analyzing the reflected detection signal of the radar sensor. At least one additional sensor is provided for generating at least one additional, second detection signal for obtaining information about the object enclosed in the medium. The method on which this radar instrument is based is also described. |
| US07956790B2 |
Systems and methods for synchronous, retimed analog to digital conversion
Various embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for analog to digital conversion. For example, a retimed analog to digital converter is disclosed that includes a first set of sub-level interleaves and a second set of sub-level interleaves. The first set of sub-level interleaves includes a first sub-level interleave with a first set of comparators synchronized to a first clock phase, and a second sub-level interleave with a second set of comparators synchronized to a second clock phase. The second set of sub-level interleaves includes a third sub-level interleave with a third set of comparators synchronized to a third clock phase, and a fourth sub-level interleave with a fourth set of comparators synchronized to a fourth clock phase. A global interleave selects one of the first set of comparators based at least in part on an output from the second set of sub-level interleaves, and one of the third set of comparators based at least in part on an output from the first set of sub-level interleaves. In some instances of the aforementioned embodiments, an output of the first sub-level interleave and an output of the second sub-level interleave are synchronized to the third clock phase, and an output of the third sub-level interleave and an output of the fourth sub-level interleave are synchronized to the first clock phase. |
| US07956787B2 |
SAR analog-to-digital converter having differing bit modes of operation
A method for operating an N-bit SAR ADC as a greater than N-bit resolution SAR ADC includes the steps of taking a plurality of samples for each analog value being converted to a digital value by the SAR ADC. A portion of an LSB is added to all but one of the plurality of samples. The plurality of samples are then accumulated and output as a digital value. The digital value has a resolution greater than the N-bit resolution of the SAR ADC. |
| US07956786B2 |
Digital-to-analogue converter
An N-bit DAC comprises a main DAC circuit having main nodes on which analogue voltages are produced of progressively increasing values in steps of the value of one MSB value, and a sub-DAC circuit having secondary nodes on which analogue voltages are produced of progressively increasing values in steps of the value of one LSB. A main switch network couples the secondary nodes to a selected pair of main nodes as the MSB value of the digital input signal varies. A secondary switch network selectively couples one of secondary nodes to an output terminal for providing an analogue voltage output signal. The main nodes are coupled between main terminals, and a voltage reference is applied across input terminals. A first offset circuit and a first compensating circuit are selectively coupleable between the main DAC circuit and the input terminals for offsetting the main node analogue voltages downwardly. |
| US07956785B2 |
Return to zero digital to analog converter and converting method thereof
The present invention relates to a digital to analog converter, to a return-to-zero digital to analog converter with improved wideband characteristics by enabling a return-to-zero output without separate clock and controller, and a converting method thereof. Since the return-to-zero digital to analog converter and the converting method thereof are capable of outputting an RZ output without directly providing a clock signal to an analog circuit by configuring a switch for generating a zero point signal and a differential pipeline for providing a differential signal to control the switch according to input digital data using a differential structure, the converter can provide wideband characteristics and high dynamic performance. |
| US07956784B2 |
DA converter including conversion amplifier having output voltage with improved linearity
A DA converter includes an IV conversion amplifier with output voltage having good linearity, to thus improve total harmonic distortion (THD) characteristics. In the DA converter, a first current path in which current flows due to differential switches being in the ON state in a differential switch section, and a second current path in which current flows due to differential switches being in the OFF state in the differential switch section are connected to the output side of the IV conversion amplifier. A first current flows in the first current path and a second current flows in the second current path. A current equal to the first current plus the second current that is of fixed current amount is drawn by an amplifier stage of the IV conversion amplifier. |
| US07956780B2 |
Filter with capacitive forward coupling
This disclosure relates to techniques and architecture for summing, sampling, and converting signals associated with a capacitive feedforward filter using a quantizer. |
| US07956777B2 |
Method, system and apparatus for dual mode operation of a converter
Methods, systems and apparatuses for operating a converter or other circuits are disclosed. More particularly, in one embodiment a converter or other circuit can be operated in two modes which may include the count-to-time and time-to count modes to determine an output value corresponding to an input signal. During operation in the count-to-time mode a converter may be operated using a reference signal to determine a number of clock cycles needed until an output corresponds to a scaling factor is reached. During operation of the circuit in the time-to-count mode then, the converter may be operated for this number of clock cycles using the input signal to determine an output. This output may be proportional to the level on the input signal. |
| US07956776B2 |
Arithmetic decoding apparatus
Disclosed herein is an arithmetic decoding apparatus including an instruction decoder configured to decode an arithmetically encoded data decoding instruction to be executed for carrying out an arithmetic-decoding process of arithmetically decoding arithmetically encoded data into a binary signal; an execution condition code holding section configured to hold the binary signal obtained as a result of an immediately preceding arithmetic-decoding process as an execution condition code; and an arithmetic decoding execution section configured to determine whether a context number specified by the arithmetically encoded data decoding instruction is to be used as a context index as it is or the specified context number incremented by 1 is to be used as the context index in accordance with the execution condition code, and carry out the arithmetic decoding process by making use of the determined context index. |
| US07956774B2 |
Variable length coding method and variable length decoding method
An image coding apparatus provides a run-length encoding unit RLE1 that subjects quantized coefficients which are obtained by quantizing frequency components of an image signal to a variable length coding process by using a run value Run that indicates the number of successive zero coefficients and a level value Lev that indicates a value of a non-zero coefficient following the zero coefficients. The run-length encoding unit RLE1 includes a reordering unit Lreodr for reordering level values Lev; a variable length coder LVLC for coding reordered level values ROLev by using a code table that is selected according to the value of a quantization parameter QP; a reordering unit Rreodr for reordering run values Run from high frequency component of the quantized coefficients to low frequency component; and a variable length coder RVLC for coding reordered run values RORun by using a code table that is selected according to the number of already-processed run values. |
| US07956771B2 |
Compact alphanumeric keyboard
An apparatus comprises an input keypad having a plurality of keys. The input keypad outputs an output signal that is indicative of either a single depressed key or a plurality of depressed keys. The apparatus includes a processor for receiving the output signal by the input keypad and associating an alphabetic character with the output signal. |
| US07956766B2 |
Apparatus operating system
Each apparatus transmits to a control server a notification signal indicative of a pending change or a change in an output state of the apparatus. The control server has stored therein a control rule which associates an output state of one apparatus with an output state to be taken by another apparatus when the one apparatus is in the output state. The control server acquires location-related information which is set in association with a location of each apparatus. Then, the control server receives a notification signal from any one of the apparatuses, and in response to the notification signal, determines an output state to be taken by an operation target apparatus which is other than an apparatus having transmitted the notification signal, based on the control rule and the location-related information. Further, the control server operates the operation target apparatus so as to transition into an output state determined by a determination section. |
| US07956761B2 |
Infrared gas detection and spectral analysis method
A gas detection system and method for analysis of infrared gas spectra is used for chemical threat detection, quantification and alarm, using a chemical library, a chemical threat list, and a background model that incorporates the data history, allows spectra containing interferent signals into the background model, the model being updated using delay buffering to prevent threat spectra incorporation and using exponential decays to preferentially represent recent background history, all computed in the logarithmic space for rapid detection and alarm. |
| US07956758B2 |
Thermal stimulation apparatus for vehicles
A thermal stimulation apparatus for vehicles capable of exerting an effect of, for example, reducing fatigue and improving the physical condition of a vehicle occupant. In a vehicle thermal stimulation apparatus 10, the piezoelectric sensor 26 detects a biorhythm accompanying a periodic change in an occupant, a control circuit 16 switches on and off heater elements 22, 24 on the basis of the detection result of the biorhythm detector such that by the heater elements 22, 24 being switched on and off, thermal stimulus to the occupant is synchronized with the biorhythm of the occupant. It is thereby possible to exert effects of, for example, reducing fatigue and improving the physical condition of a vehicle occupant. |
| US07956755B2 |
Apparatus and/or method for inducing sound sleep and waking
Disclosed herein are a method and apparatus to induce sound sleep and waking, selecting a protocol to control a sound sleep and waking environment depending on a sleep type selected by a user; adjusting the sleep environment of the user according to the selected protocol; determining a sleep state of the user by measuring physiological signals of the user during sleep in the sleep environment using a sensor which does not contact a body of the user; detecting variation in the physiological signals of the user; and re-adjusting the sleep environment by changing parameters of the protocol depending on the detected variation in the physiological signals. As a result, there is an advantage in that it is possible to naturally induce sound sleep and waking. |
| US07956754B2 |
Connection mechanisms in absorbent articles for body fluid signaling devices
Absorbent articles incorporating a wetness sensor for indicating the presence of a body fluid are disclosed. In particular, the absorbent articles include at least two conductive elements that form an open circuit within the article. Each conductive element is connected to a conductive pad member that has sufficient surface area in order to facilitate connection to a signaling device. In accordance with the present disclosure, various attachment mechanisms are disclosed for attaching the pad members to a signaling device. In particular, although the absorbent articles are disposable, the signaling device is intended to be used with multiple absorbent articles. Therefore, a simple and efficient method of connecting the signaling device to the pad members provides various advantages. In one particular embodiment, for instance, the pad members comprise a conductive loop-type material that is attached to a corresponding conductive hook-type material on the signaling device. |
| US07956753B2 |
Tether apparatus
A tether apparatus having a housing which includes a cavity, and further wherein the housing is adapted for association with a user; a securement member, wherein the securement member is associated with at least a portion of the housing; and a tracking sub-assembly having a communication member, wherein the communication member is at least partially positioned within the housing and wherein the communication member transmits a position signal; an energy storage device, wherein the energy storage device is at least partially positioned within the housing and/or a user's footwear and wherein the energy storage device electrically communicates with the communication member; and a kinetic energy charger, wherein the kinetic energy charger is at least partially positioned within at least one of the housing and a user's footwear and wherein the kinetic energy charger electrically communicates with at least one of the communication member and the energy storage device. |
| US07956752B2 |
Transponder bolt seal and a housing for a transponder
An electronic seal (100), housing (1) for a transponder (200), which may form part of an electronic seal (100) and a transponder device is provided. The electronic seal (100) has a sealing mechanism (5). A transponder receptacle (50), and an actuator (4) are provided by or with the housing (1). The actuator (4) is actuated upon engagement of the sealing mechanism (5) to render the transponder (200) operable. The transponder receptacle (50) may hold the transponder (200) so as to extend into three planes. |
| US07956750B2 |
Wireless IC tag
To provide a wireless IC tag which is readable even in a plurality of countries (destination countries) using different radio frequency bands for reading.The wireless IC tag of the present invention is characterized by comprising: a case (20); an antenna (60), which is provided in the case (20); a metal plate (901), which is disposed in the case opposite to the antenna (60); and a mechanism for altering the resonance characteristics of the wireless IC tag (10) by moving at least one of the antenna (60) and the metal plate (901) in the case (20), thereby altering the distance (D) between the metal plate (901) and the antenna (60). With such wireless IC tag (10), the capacitance of an equivalent tuning capacitor consisting of the antenna (60) and the metal plate (901) can be arbitrarily altered by a distance alteration unit, and thereby, the resonance characteristics of the wireless IC tag (10) can be altered in accordance with the frequency band of reading radio wave used by a reader/writer. |
| US07956745B2 |
Wireless tag detection apparatus and method of controlling the same
Query signals to one or more wireless tags are transmitted via radio communication, and a distance to a wireless tag to be retrieved is informed according to strength of a response signal from the wireless tag to be retrieved, which is included in the response signals transmitted from the one or more wireless tags via radio communication. |
| US07956741B2 |
Tumbler type lock apparatus
A tumbler-type lock apparatus for use with a tumbler-type card key having a code pattern region including an array of holes and non-hole portions that expresses a key code of the tumbler-type card key. The tumbler-type lock apparatus includes a slider case and a slider movable relative to the slider case when the tumbler-type card key is inserted into the tumbler-type lock apparatus. Tumblers extending in the slider case and slider each correspond to one of the holes or non-hole portions. Springs bias the tumblers towards the slider. The tumbler-type lock apparatus verifies the tumbler-type card key when the tumblers are engaged with the slider case and slider during insertion of the tumbler-type card key. The slider includes accommodation portions. A distal end of the tumbler that has passed through the corresponding hole of the tumbler-type card key is accommodated in the corresponding accommodation portion. |
| US07956740B2 |
Alarm system configuration validation
An alarm system validates values of configuration variables, such as a programmed account code. If the variable(s) is/are not programmed upon exiting system programming, an audible and/or visual indication of such is provided. This may result in a decrease of the number of events signaled to a central station by alarm systems that are not programmed with the correct account code. |
| US07956736B2 |
Method and system for communicating with and controlling an alarm system from a remote server
A communication system is provided that can be added to a legacy alarm system to provide a plurality of communication modes to a remote server system from the legacy alarm system and provide remote control and monitoring to a user of the system via two-way communication links. The communication system can be configured to communicate with an alarm processor of the legacy alarm system through use of a keypad bus typically used by the legacy alarm system for communication between the alarm processor and one or more keypads. Communication modes that can be provided by embodiments of the present invention can include, for example, communication over a public switched telephone network, cellular transmission, broadband transmission, and the like. The communication system can monitor all configured communication modes and determine which communication mode is the best for providing communication between the alarm system and the remote server. Through these communication modes and by virtue of being coupled to the alarm processor via the keypad bus, the communication system can provide both transmission to the remote server of the status and alarm condition of the legacy alarm system as well as provide control signals from the remote server to the legacy alarm system. The remote server provides pre-determined responses to information received from the alarm system, including providing alarm system condition information to a user or a monitoring station for response. |
| US07956733B1 |
Optical fiber sensor for quantitative monitoring of deflection from high-speed launcher operation conditions
A measurement system is provided to monitor a launcher assembly along a path along which to accelerate a projectile. This system includes an optical sensor, a light emitter, a light detector and a signal analyzer. The sensor is continuously disposed on (or integrated to) the assembly at a position on the path and has initial and terminus ends. The light emitter transmits an optical signal from the initial end. The light detector receives the optical signal from either the initial or terminus ends. The signal analyzer compares the optical signal from the detector to a quantifiable deflection of the assembly launcher. The signal analyzer issues an alarm indication in response to the quantifiable deflection exceeds a hazard-condition threshold. The sensor may be positioned either substantially parallel to or transverse at discrete points along the path and be disposed longitudinally along and/or wrapped helically around the launcher barrel. |
| US07956730B2 |
Method and system for controlling a vehicle given to a third party
A method and system for controlling a vehicle given to a third party. The system includes a system controller; a mode-indicating device coupled to the system controller; and an authenticator coupled to the system controller. Here, the system controller is adapted to communicate a driving restriction to the vehicle upon an activation of the mode-indicating device by an authorized driver and until a deactivation of the mode-indicating device by the authorized driver, the system controller is adapted to restrict the activation and the deactivation of the mode-indicating device unless the authorized driver has been authenticated by the authenticator, and the driving restriction includes a limit selected from the group consisting of a limit in number of starts, a limit in speed, a limit in acceleration, a limit in number of minutes, a limit in distance, a limit in gears, a limit in locations, and combinations thereof. |
| US07956724B2 |
Support for reliable end to end messaging of tags in an RFID infrastructure
The claimed subject matter provides a system and/or a method that facilitates ensuring reliable data within a radio frequency identification (RFID) infrastructure. A radio frequency identification (RFID) network can include at least one device that receives data from a tag. A distribute component can initiate a reliable transaction with the received data to ensure at least one subscribing RFID process utilizes such data. |
| US07956723B2 |
Digital communication system with security features
A digital communication system is disclosed, that allows a display of override content to interrupt a display of ongoing content on one or more display units. Ongoing content, such as advertisements, news, entertainment, or other relevant information, is provided on the display units until an urgent or security-related alert is required, and display of override content becomes necessary. Override content can include information relevant to the security of a passenger or passer-by viewing the display. Override content can relate to security threats such as accidents, major delays, fire, missing children, terrorist activity, or other content deemed adequately pertinent to warrant interrupting the display of ongoing content. |
| US07956718B2 |
Remote control and monitoring of barrier operators with radio frequency transceivers
Low cost, low power consumption radio frequency transceivers are incorporated in barrier operator control systems for transmitting signals between an operator control unit, one or more remote control units, a diagnostic or calibration device and an obstruction detector. Similar detector devices, including such transceivers, may be employed in loading docks for detecting the status of dock levelers and vehicle restraint devices. Radio frequency communication eliminates the need for hard wiring and also provides for transmission of commands and status information between various control units. |
| US07956715B2 |
Thin film structures with negative inductance and methods for fabricating inductors comprising the same
An inductor structure comprising a substrate and a planar conductor structure on a surface of the substrate, and methods for fabricating an inductor structure. The planar conductor structure may comprise a vertical stack of three or more multilayer films. Each multilayer film may comprise a first layer of a first metal, defining a first vertical thickness, and a second layer of a second metal, defining a second vertical thickness. The metals and thicknesses are chosen such that the inductor exhibits a negative electrical self-inductance when an electrical signal is transmitted from a first contact point to a second contact point. |
| US07956714B2 |
High voltage transformer
Primary (4, 8) and secondary (10) windings are subjected to a significant heat stress during operation of a high voltage transformer. The present invention describes a high voltage transformer which is believed to have good temperature properties. This transformer may have a planar primary winding and a Litz secondary winding. The planar primary winding may abut against a planar face of the core (2) therefore allowing for a good heat exchange between these two elements. The Litz secondary winding and the planar primary winding may be cooled by means of a cooling medium. |
| US07956708B2 |
Wideband dielectric waveguide filter
A waveguide-type dielectric filter suitable for wideband filter applications made of a metallized dielectric material is provided. The filter includes two or more mutually coupled resonators disposed in a longitudinal manner. The coupling between adjacent resonators is provided and adjusted by slots or through holes. The dielectric block is covered with metal ground coating with the exception of an uncoated area at the input and output that creates two contact pads on one surface of the dielectric block that are electrically isolated from the metal ground coating. Metallized blind holes are formed on the opposing surface of the dielectric block with respect to the contact pads. These blind holes effectively move the ground plane closer to the contact pad, which, in turn increases the coupling between the input and output resonators and external circuitry, which is essential for building wide bandwidth band pass filters. |
| US07956703B2 |
Multi-band transducer for multi-band feed horn
A multi-band transducer is described incorporating a coaxial waveguide interface for use with a multi-band feed and incorporating bent shaped probes yielding all-planar interfaces in microstrip for all frequency ranges and suitable for mass production. Hybrids can be incorporated for linear or circular polarization applications. |
| US07956695B1 |
High-frequency low-gain ring VCO for clock-data recovery in high-speed serial interface of a programmable logic device
A voltage-controlled oscillator operates at high frequency without high gain by dividing the frequency range into a plurality of subranges, which preferably are substantially equal in size. Within any subrange, the full extent of variation in the control signal changes the frequency only by the extent of the subrange. The gain is thus substantially equal to the gain one would expect for the full frequency range, divided by the number of subranges. The subrange may be selected manually, or by an initial calibration process. In one embodiment, the oscillator includes a voltage-to-current converter and a current-controlled oscillator, with a current mirror arrangement. In that embodiment, selection of the subrange may be controlled by turning on the correct number of current legs. |
| US07956694B1 |
Phase controlled dimmer using a narrow band quadrature demodulator
A modified Costas control loop (80) using switched analog low pass filters (R2, C1, C2) (R3, C3, C4) and rectangular to polar conversion (341) computes an angular phase reference error that is processed by a digital loop filter (342) to control a counter (441) and a state machine (442) that are used to control the gating of a controllably conductive circuit (84) interposed between an AC source (81) and a phase-controlled load (83) such as a dimmable lamp. |
| US07956691B2 |
System and method for over-voltage protection of a power amplifier
A system and method for over-voltage protection of a power amplifier is provided. A power amplifier is typically employed in a transmitter to amplify signals prior to transmission via a load; the load may include an antenna or a cable. As a result of an impedance mismatch between the power amplifier and its load, excess power from the power amplifier output fails to reach the load and must be dissipated by one or more transistors in the power amplifier. In severe impedance mismatch conditions, this dissipated power may damage or destroy the transistor(s). An automatic gain control (AGC) is provided for detecting a gain difference between the power amplifier and a replica power amplifier. A gain difference may signal an over-voltage situation. The AGC may be configured to adjust the gain of the power amplifier if a gain difference exists to prevent device damage. |
| US07956690B2 |
Operational amplification circuit
An operational amplification circuit includes a differential amplification circuit portion that amplifies a differential input, and an output circuit portion that outputs the amplified output using a signal amplified in the differential amplification circuit portion. The differential amplification circuit portion is provided with a pair of first transistors to which signals are differentially input, and second and third transistors which are connected to current paths of the pair of first transistors and which constitute current mirror circuits with respect to each other. The output circuit portion is provided with a fourth transistor, a gate of which is connected to a drain of the second transistor, and an amplified output is output from a drain of the fourth transistor. |
| US07956682B2 |
Amplifier
An amplifier including a first transistor including a gate coupled to an input terminal and a grounded source; a load resistor provided between a drain of the first transistor and a power supply; an output terminal coupled to a node between the drain of the first transistor and the load resistor; a feedback path coupled to the input terminal and the output terminal and including a resistor and a capacitor; a bias voltage generator applying a gate bias voltage to the gate of the first transistor in response to an enable signal; a supply resistor provided between an output node for the gate bias voltage of the bias voltage generator and the gate of the first transistor; and an enable switch lowering a resistance value between the output node for the gate bias voltage and a node in the feedback path. |
| US07956680B2 |
Low-noise DC offset calibration circuit and related receiver stage
A DC offset calibration circuit has a first resistor, a first switch, a second resistor, and a second switch. The first resistor is coupled to a first supply voltage. The first switch is coupled to the first resistor, to a first input of an amplifier, and to a first input resistor. A second end of the first input resistor is not coupled to the first supply voltage. The second resistor is coupled to a second supply voltage. The second switch is coupled to the second resistor, to a second input of the amplifier, and to a first end of a second input resistor. A second end of the second input resistor is not coupled to the second supply voltage. |
| US07956677B2 |
Semiconductor integrated circuit and power-supply control method
A semiconductor integrated circuit includes: a first voltage line on which a specific one of a power-supply voltage and a reference voltage appears; a second voltage line; a plurality of circuit cells each receiving power generated as a difference between a voltage appearing on the second voltage line and the other one of the power-supply voltage and the reference voltage; a plurality of switch transistors connected in parallel between the first and second voltage lines to serve as switch transistors including switch transistors each having different conducting-state resistances; and a switch conduction control section for controlling a transition of each of the switch transistors from a non-conducting state to a conducting state by turning on the switch transistors at separate points of time. |
| US07956676B2 |
Semiconductor apparatus
A semiconductor apparatus includes a constant voltage circuit that converts an input voltage and outputs a prescribed constant voltage. The constant voltage circuit includes an output transistor that receives an input of a control signal and outputs a current (from an input terminal to an output terminal) in accordance with the control signal. Also included is an error amplifier circuit that controls the output transistor to create a voltage in proportion to an output voltage outputted from the output terminal becomes a prescribed reference level. A direct current power source supplies direct current power to the constant voltage circuit. A voltage creating circuit creates and outputs a voltage higher than that of the direct current power. |
| US07956674B2 |
Reservoir capacitor array circuit
A reservoir capacitor array circuit capable of allowing an internal voltage to be maintained stably, comprises a plurality of reservoir capacitors, each of the reservoir capacitors including a switch element which is connected between a power source voltage and a prescribed node and switched in response to a test enable signal which is enabled depending on a test mode signal or whether the fuse is cut or not, and a capacitor connected between the node and a ground voltage. |
| US07956673B2 |
Variable stage charge pump and method for providing boosted output voltage
An embodiment of a variable stage charge pump includes a plurality of pump stages. Each stage is configured to generate an intermediate boosted output voltage. A pump stage selector selects the number of charge pump stages to be coupled between an input and output terminal of the variable stage charge pump. The pump stage selector may control a plurality of switches to select the number of stages. For example, two stages may be coupled in parallel and the parallel combination coupled in series to a third stage, resulting in a two stage charge pump. For a three stage charge pump, all three stages are coupled in series. |
| US07956671B2 |
Circuit structure and method for programming and re-programming a low power, multiple states, electronic fuse (e-fuse)
In one embodiment of an e-fuse programming/re-programming circuit, the e-fuse has two short high atomic diffusion resistance conductor layers positioned on opposite sides and at a same end of a long low atomic diffusion resistance conductor layer. A voltage source is used to vary the polarity and, optionally, the magnitude of voltage applied to the terminals in order to control bi-directional flow of electrons within the long conductor layer and, thereby formation of opens and/or shorts at the long conductor layer-short conductor layer interfaces. The formation of such opens and/or shorts can be used to achieve different programming states. Other circuit structure embodiments incorporate e-fuses with additional conductor layers and additional terminals so as to allow for even more programming states. Also disclosed are embodiments of associated e-fuse programming and re-programming methods. |
| US07956666B2 |
Mixer capable of improving signal quality
A mixer includes a transduction circuit, a first and a second switch circuit, and a first and a second load circuit. The transconductor circuit is for generating a differential current signal according to a differential voltage signal. The first switch circuit and the first load circuit are connected in series, and the first switch circuit is used to regulate the differential current signal in response to a first oscillator signal. The second switch circuit and a second load circuit are connected in series, and the second switch circuit is used to regulate the differential current signal in response to a second oscillator signal. The first load circuit and the second load circuit are connected at a common node to reduce harmonic interferences. |
| US07956665B2 |
Methods and articles of manufacture for operating electronic devices on a plurality of clock signals
Embodiments of the invention relate to an integrated circuit comprising at least one functional unit configured to operate at a first clock frequency. The integrated circuit also comprises at least one first interconnect originating from a contact pad and leading to at least one frequency divider configured to receive a clock signal having a second frequency and generate one or more clock signals to operate the functional unit at the first frequency. The integrated circuit further comprises at least one second interconnect coupling an output of the frequency divider and an input of the functional unit, wherein a total length of the second wired interconnect is less than a total length of the first wired interconnects. |
| US07956664B2 |
Clock distribution network architecture with clock skew management
Disclosed herein is a digital system that includes a distribution network having a path to carry a reference clock and an adjustable delay element disposed along the path, and first and second clock domains coupled to the distribution network to receive the reference clock and configured to be driven by respective clock waveforms, each of which has a frequency in common with the reference clock. The digital system further includes a phase detector coupled to the first and second clock domains to generate a phase difference signal based on the clock waveforms, and a control circuit coupled to the phase detector and configured to adjust the adjustable delay element based on the phase difference signal. |
| US07956663B2 |
Delay circuit, semiconductor control circuit, display device, and electronic device
Disclosed herein is a delay circuit for performing one of a charge and a discharge in two stages, and delaying a signal, the delay circuit including an output section configured to output a delayed signal; two power supplies; and a delay inverter; wherein the delay inverter has a first transistor and a second transistor of an identical channel type for one of a first charge and a first discharge, the first transistor and the second transistor being connected in series with each other between the output section and one power supply, and the delay inverter has a third transistor of a different channel type from the first transistor and the second transistor for one of a second charge and a second discharge, the third transistor being connected in parallel with one of the first transistor and the second transistor. |
| US07956660B2 |
Signal processing device
A signal processing device includes a correction circuit configured to correct the distortion of the duty cycle in a data signal having different occurrence probabilities of 0 and 1. |
| US07956659B2 |
Semiconductor memory device capable of easily performing delay locking operation under high frequency system clock
A semiconductor memory device includes a first clock buffer for outputting a first internal clock signal in response to an inverted signal of the system clock signal and for correcting a duty cycle ratio of the first internal clock signal in response to a control signal; a second clock buffer for outputting a second internal clock signal in response to the system clock signal and for correcting a duty cycle ratio of the second internal clock signal in response to the control signal; an analog duty cycle correction circuit for outputting the control signal corresponding to the duty cycle ratio of the first and second internal clock signals; a mixing circuit for mixing the first and second internal clock signals and for outputting a third internal clock signal whose duty cycle is corrected; and a DLL circuit for outputting a delay-locked clock signal by using the third internal clock signal. |
| US07956658B2 |
Digital lock detector and frequency synthesizer using the same
There is provided a digital lock detector and a frequency synthesizer using the same. The digital lock detector includes a comparator unit receiving a plurality of control bits, and generating a bit signal to notice a lock condition of the plurality of control bits; a delay cell block generating a plurality of delay signals based on the bit signal, and outputting a clock signal by combining the bit signal and the plurality of delay signals; and a detection unit detecting a shift time of the clock signal, and generating a lock indication signal according to the detection result. |
| US07956656B2 |
Systems and methods for providing a clock signal
Systems and methods for providing a clock signal are provided. A frequency multiplier circuit is provided that can include a plurality of serially connected delay elements that are configured to generate a plurality of delay tap signals from an input signal. The frequency multiplier circuit can also include a phase detector configured to receive a first selected delay tap signal and the input signal. The phase detector can detect a phase shift between the first selected delay tap signal and the input signal, and can generate a phase detection signal indicative of a value of the phase shift. The frequency multiplier circuit can also include a digital logic gate configured to receive the input signal and a second selected delay tap signal. The digital logic gate can be further configured to generate an output signal responsive to the second selected delay tap signal and the input signal. The frequency multiplier circuit can also include a controller coupled to the phase detector and coupled to an output gate. The controller can be configured to receive the phase detection signal and to enable the output gate when the value of the phase shift corresponds to a predetermined value. The output gate can provide the output signal when enabled. |
| US07956653B1 |
Complementary high voltage switched current source integrated circuit
A complementary high voltage switched current source circuit has a complementary current source pair, wherein a first of the current source pair is coupled to a positive voltage rail and a second of the current source pair is coupled to a negative voltage rail. A digital logic-level control interface circuit is coupled to the complementary current source pair and to the positive voltage rail and the negative voltage rail. A pair of high voltage switches is coupled to the complementary current source pair and the digital logic-level control interface circuit and controlled by the digital control interface circuit. |
| US07956652B2 |
Semiconductor integrated circuit
A semiconductor integrated circuit has a sampling circuit which samples a potential of an input terminal, a dynamic comparator having a standby and a comparison mode which compares the potential of the input terminal and a reference potential, a switch for input signals connected between the input terminal and the dynamic comparator, a capacitor for comparator having one end connected between the switch for input signals and the dynamic comparator and another end connected to a fixed potential, and a timing control circuit which controls a timing to sample by sampling circuit, a timing to switch modes of dynamic comparator, and a timing to make switch for input signals conducting or blocking state. The timing control circuit makes the switch for input signals blocking state from conducting state before the dynamic comparator switches from standby mode to comparison mode, and terminates sampling by sampling circuit after switching modes. |
| US07956650B2 |
Input circuit of semiconductor integrated circuit
An input circuit is disclosed. The input circuit can include a cross voltage generating block that can be configured to perform charge-sharing on a pair of input signals whose phases are opposite to each other and generate a cross voltage, and an input buffer block that can be configured to buffer the pair of input signals at a voltage level corresponding to a voltage level of the cross voltage and generate an output signal. |
| US07956641B1 |
Low voltage interface circuit
An improved interface circuit is provided herein for translating a relatively high input voltage into a relatively low output voltage using only low voltage transistors and a single, low voltage power supply. According to one embodiment, the interface circuit includes a power supply, a pair of input transistors with source terminals coupled together for receiving a relatively low voltage from the power supply, and a current sense amplifier with a pair of input terminals, each coupled to a drain terminal of a different one of the pair of input transistors for receiving a pair of differential currents and for generating a pair of differential voltages therefrom. |
| US07956634B2 |
Apparatus and method for performing an ion concentration analysis in liquid crystal panel
The present invention provides an apparatus and method for performing an ion concentration analysis in an LCD panel. The method comprises: adjusting common voltage of an LCD panel to be tested and a standard LCD panel, respectively, and obtaining a first common voltage of the LCD panel to be tested and a first common voltage of the standard LCD panel; adjusting the first common voltage of the standard LCD panel and the first common voltage of the LCD panel to be tested, respectively, according to a predetermined testing voltage; loading a first image to the standard LCD panel and the LCD panel to be tested, respectively, and maintaining the first image in the standard LCD panel and the LCD panel to be tested for a period of time; switching the loaded first image to a second image; and analyzing ion concentration in the LCD panel to be tested on the basis of image sticking levels appearing in the standard LCD panel and the LCD panel to be tested. |
| US07956632B2 |
Socket, module board, and inspection system using the module board
The socket of the present invention includes a lid having a first protrusion on the reverse side, and a first terminal connected electrically to the first protrusion, and a main body having a second terminal on the upside, and a third terminal connected electrically to the second terminal on the reverse side, in which an electronic component is contained in the main body, and the first terminal and the second terminal are connected electrically in the space enclosed and fixed by the lid. The inspection system of the present invention includes a socket of the present invention, and an evaluation board for connecting a third terminal of the socket electrically to the inspection apparatus of the electronic component, and propagating an inspection signal. |
| US07956631B2 |
Test socket for testing semiconductor package
A test socket, adapted for connecting the semiconductor package and a printed circuit board comprises a base and a plurality of contacts received in the base. The base has a retaining board defining a plurality of first receiving holes and a positioning board defining a plurality of second receiving holes. The contacts has a contacting portion, an elastic portion and a retaining portion, the elastic portion is disposed between the retaining board and the positioning board and protruding rightward, and the contacting portion extends beyond the elastic portion and defines a acute angle with a horizontal line in a right hand before contacting with the semiconductor package to prevent the contacting portion from scratching with the left inner sidewall of the second receiving hole when pushed downward by the semiconductor package and rotating leftward. |
| US07956628B2 |
Chip-based prober for high frequency measurements and methods of measuring
A chip-based prober for measuring a device-under-test is provided. The prober includes a probe tip, a voltage and control connector, a chip carrier, and a programmable termination chip. The probe tip is configured to contact the device-under-test. The voltage and control connector is in electrical communication with the probe tip. The programmable termination chip has a plurality of terminations interconnected with the voltage and control connector and the chip carrier through controlled collapsed chip connections. |
| US07956627B2 |
Probe card, semiconductor inspecting apparatus, and manufacturing method of semiconductor device
A frame bonded and fixed to a back face of a probe sheet so as to surround a group of pyramid-shaped or truncated pyramid-shaped contact terminals collectively formed at a central region portion of the probe sheet on a probing side thereof is protruded from a multi-layered wiring board, and pressing force is imparted to the frame and a pressing piece at a central portion by a plurality of guide pins having spring property so as to tilt finely. |
| US07956626B2 |
Circuit arrangement with switchable functionality and electronic component
A circuit with switchable functionality has a first integrated circuit, which has, in a first operating mode, full functionality and which has, in at least one other operating mode, a functionality which is reduced in comparison with the full functionality. The circuit further has an output terminal to which a coupling element can be coupled, an identification device which identifies whether a first supply potential has been applied to the output terminal via the coupling element and in this case produces a status signal with a first value and otherwise produces a status signal with a second value, a setting device, which sets the full or reduced functionality as a function of the value of the status signal in the first integrated circuit. The invention also relates to an electronic component having such a circuit arrangement. |
| US07956625B1 |
Undoped silicon heat spreader window
A system and method for thermal management of a device under test (DUT). In particular, a system is described for performing optical microscopy. The system includes a heat spreader window that consists of substantially undoped silicon. The window is configured to be coupled to a back side of a substrate of a DUT such that thermal energy from the DUT is spread to the heat spreader window. A contact region is coupled to the heat spreader window. The contact region is configured for contact with a solid immersion lens (SIL) optical system for optical examination of the DUT. A heat exchanger is coupled to the heat spreader window for removing the thermal energy from the DUT during its operation, wherein the heat exchanger is configured to allow access to the heat spreader window. |
| US07956623B2 |
Container filling machine
The present invention provides a container filling machine comprising a sensing device for detecting the integrity of discrete articles for personal treatment to be packaged in a container. The sensing device comprises a pair of capacitor plates positioned in a substantially opposing relationship for creating therebetween an electric field, a track for guiding the discrete articles for personal treatment through said electric field and a processing unit. The processing unit is in communication with the pair of capacitor plates, and is operative for detecting a change in capacitance as a discrete article passes through the electric field in order to determine the integrity of the discrete article on the basis of the change in capacitance and a characteristic capacitance change signature. The container filling machine further comprises a transportation device, a rejection device, a counting device and a plurality of path blocking devices. |
| US07956622B2 |
Method for signal processing of capacitive measurement scales
A method for the signal processing of capacitive measurement scales intended for the measurement of lengths or angles, consisting of two parts moveable relative to each other provided with electrodes that together form condensers, whose magnitudes are variable and depend on the relative position as specified by a sinusoidal relationship between the two parts. The first part has n electrodes evenly distributed over one measurement period and the second part has one electrode per measurement period. The electrodes in the first part are fed with n alternating voltages whereby the time displacements of the alternating voltages relative to each other are t 0 n , , where t0 is the length of the period of the alternating voltage. The electrode of the second mobile part captures a signal composed of one or several of the alternating voltages and the amplitude composition of the signal depends on the relative position between the two parts. |
| US07956609B2 |
Magnetic sensor including a spin-valve GMR device
The magnetic sensor comprises a spin-valve GMR including a free layer having an elongated form as seen in a laminating direction and a permanent magnet layer having an elongated form as seen in the laminating direction. The permanent magnet layer is arranged in parallel with the free layer. |
| US07956608B1 |
Method of using group III-V ferromagnetic/non-magnetic semiconductor heterojunctions and magnetodiodes
Methods of use of ferromagnetic Group III-V semiconductor/non-magnetic Group III-V semiconductor heterojunctions, with a magnetodiode device, to detect heterojunction magnetoresistance responsive to an applied magnetic field. |
| US07956595B2 |
Adaptive constant-voltage control circuit and adaptive power converter controller
An adaptive power converter controller coupled to a load and a power converter circuit is provided. The adaptive power converter controller has an adaptive voltage sensing unit and a converting control circuit. The adaptive voltage sensing unit is coupled to the load and output a voltage sensing signal according to a load current and a load voltage from the load. The converting control circuit is utilized for receiving the voltage sensing signal and comparing the voltage level of the voltage sensing signal with a current sensing signal, which is corresponding solely to the load current, so as to decide whether the power converter circuit is controlled according to the voltage sensing signal or the current sensing signal. |
| US07956592B2 |
Monitoring and control of power converters
A digital controller configured to inject a signal into a digital feedback path that facilitates regulation of a power converter and measure the corresponding phase, gain, or frequency. The digital controller may also include an adaptive tuning controller for adjusting power converter operating attributes based in part on the measurements. In an exemplary embodiment, the adaptive tuning controller uses the phase, gain, and/or frequency measurements to adjust the digital feedback signal. In an exemplary embodiment, the adaptive tuning controller compares the operating measurements with desired values and generates adjusted operating attributes. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, the monitoring and adjusting of the digital feedback signal occurs while the digital controller is regulating a power signal in the power converter. |
| US07956585B2 |
Mutual blanking for a multi-channel converter
A shutter circuit is provided for a multi-channel converter to blank the switching noise produced by the switching of the converter. The shutter circuit monitors the switching of the switches in the output stages of the converter, and when one channel performs switching, the shutter circuit will send a signal to other channels to block the current sensors thereof. The current sensors are so blocked for a period not to sense the switching noise. The mutual interference between the channels due to the switching noise of the converter is eliminated. |
| US07956582B2 |
Activating batteries based on environmental conditions
A system measures a temperature condition of a component of a mobile communication device, determines a battery of the mobile communication device based on the measured temperature condition, activates the determined battery, activates a temperature management device connected to the battery, and manages the measured temperature condition of the component with the temperature management device. |
| US07956579B2 |
Battery charge management system for charging a battery bank that includes a plurality of batteries
Battery charge management systems for charging a battery bank including a plurality of batteries connected in series are disclosed that include: a power source having a charging port, the power source capable of providing power to each battery in the battery bank; a multiplexer connected to the battery bank, the multiplexer capable of connecting the charging port to a single battery at a time and capable of switching the connection of the charging port to each battery in the battery bank; and a microcontroller connected to the multiplexer and operatively coupled to each battery in the battery bank, the microcontroller capable of receiving discharge data and charge data for each battery in the battery bank, the microcontroller capable of instructing the multiplexer to switch the connection of the charging port with each battery in dependence upon the discharge data and the charge data for that battery. |
| US07956577B2 |
Holding base and information processing system
A holding base for removably holding a mobile phone has a first holding position in which the mobile phone is held under own weight, a second holding position in which the mobile phone is held by engaging a portion of the holding base, power supply terminals that are connected to the mobile phone in the first holding position and the second holding position, and signal terminals that are connected to the mobile phone in the second holding position, and at least one of which is separated from the mobile phone in the first holding position. |
| US07956576B2 |
Rechargeable battery packs and related methods
In one embodiment, a rechargeable battery pack can be configured to power an electronic device having a first battery. The rechargeable battery pack can comprise a second battery supplemental to the first battery, an external power input configured to couple to an external power source, a power output for powering the electronic device. The rechargeable battery pack can also comprise a first circuit comprising a first power path between the external power input and the power output, a second power path between the second battery and the power output, and a power switch set. When the external power source is decoupled from the external power input, the first power path is disabled by the power switch set, and the second power path is enabled by the power switch set. When the external power source is coupled to the external power input, the first power path is enabled by the power switch set, and the second power path is disabled by the power switch set. Other examples and embodiments are described herein. |
| US07956575B2 |
Charging device for battery
Abnormal detecting means 112 for detecting that an electrically conductive foreign substance has migrated into a charging device 1 is provided, and whether or the foreign substance has migrated is judged from the detection result of the abnormal detecting means 112. |
| US07956573B1 |
Battery charging system with discharging means
The invention is a battery charging system with discharging means that includes a housing containing a plurality of charging units. The charging units come in a variety of sizes as well as in multiples of each size. The invention also includes a plurality of discharging units, which are capable of draining out any remaining charge left in the battery prior to the recharging process. |
| US07956572B2 |
Systems and methods for receiving and managing power in wireless devices
Exemplary systems and methods are provided for collecting/harvesting direct current (DC) power received from a power source(s). The system comprises a controlled impedance power controller comprises a power converter configured to present a positive equivalent resistive load to the at least one power source over a range of input power levels. Exemplary systems and methods are provided for collecting radio frequency (RF) power. An exemplary system comprises at least two rectenna elements, a power controller, and a DC combining circuit. The DC combining circuit is associated with the at least two rectenna elements and the DC combining circuit is configured to dynamically combine the at least two rectenna elements in one of a plurality of series/parallel configurations. The power controller is configured to control the DC combining circuit to achieve a desired overall power output from the at least two rectenna elements. |
| US07956571B2 |
Method and apparatus for measuring electrochemical properties
Apparatus for measuring electrochemical properties of materials, and methods of measuring electrochemical properties of materials, are provided. |
| US07956567B2 |
Motor drive control device and image forming apparatus
A motor drive control device for controlling a rotational speed of a motor includes: a motor driver for rotationally driving a motor; a correction amount calculating section for detecting a rotational speed of an output of the motor in accordance with an alternate current signal outputted from an FG sensor and detecting a rotational position of a photoconductive drum, which is rotated by a rotational drive force of the motor, in accordance with a pulse outputted from an encoder; a speed controller for generating a speed control signal corresponding to a total correction amount, which is a sum of a correction amount calculated in the correction amount calculating section based on a rotational speed of the motor and a correction amount calculated based on a rotational position of the photoconductive drum, and outputting the generated speed control signal to the motor driver. |
| US07956566B2 |
Driver IC with HV-isolation, especially hybrid electric vehicle motor drive concept
An automotive drive system for a high voltage electric motor comprises a microcontroller and ECU powered by a low voltage (12 volt) bus net which controls the drives of a high voltage inverter powered by a 100 volt or higher source, which, in turn, drives the motor. To provide good electrical insulation between the low voltage and high voltage systems, the low voltage control signals are produced by a low voltage signal transmitter chip which has a small integral antenna which wirelessly communicates with the antenna of a high voltage driver IC which drives the power devices of the high voltage inverter. The two IC chips are separated by a suitable isolation distance and may be bare chips, individually packaged chips or co-packed chips. Plural control IC chips and driver IC chips can communicate with one another for adverse control functions, including “smart” functions. |
| US07956565B2 |
Variable field permanent magnet dynamoelectric machine
A dynamoelectric machine which operates in a constant power mode. |
| US07956563B2 |
System for using a multi-phase motor with a double-ended inverter system
Systems and apparatus are provided for an inverter system for use in a vehicle having a first energy source and a second energy source. The inverter system comprises an electric motor having a first set of windings and a second set of windings. The inverter system further comprises a first inverter coupled to the first energy source and adapted to drive the electric motor, wherein the first set of windings are coupled to the first inverter. The inverter system also comprises a second inverter coupled to the second energy source and adapted to drive the electric motor, wherein the second set of windings are coupled to the second inverter. A controller is coupled to the first inverter and the second inverter to achieve desired power flow between the first energy source, the second energy source, and the electric motor. |
| US07956562B2 |
Motor and motor drive system
Provided is a motor having a combination of a plurality of coil pairs and a permanent magnet, wherein these coil pairs are supplied with an excitation signal from a drive circuit so as to be excited at alternate opposite poles, and the permanent magnet is constituted such that the plurality of polar elements is disposed to become alternating opposite poles; the drive circuit is constituted to supply an excitation signal having a prescribed frequency to the coil pairs, and relatively move the coil pairs and permanent magnet with the magnetic attraction—repulsion between the coils and permanent magnet; and the drive circuit is constituted to supply to the coil pairs a waveform signal corresponding to the pattern of the back electromotive voltage to be generated in accordance with the relative movement between the coil pairs and permanent magnet. |
| US07956561B2 |
Rotor position sensing system of brushless motor
A rotor position detecting circuit includes a first position detecting circuit having a low-pass filter that shapes up phase voltage induced in a phase coil and a first comparator that compares the output voltage of the low-pass filter with a threshold level to form a first rotor position signal, and a second position detecting circuit having a second comparator that compares the phase voltage with a threshold voltage and a control unit that digitally processes the output voltage of the second comparator to form a second rotor position signal. The control unit corrects the first rotor position signal by the second rotor position signal to provide a final rotor position signal when the rotation speed of the brushless DC motor is in a measurable range. |
| US07956554B2 |
System and method for regulation of solid state lighting
Exemplary embodiments of the invention provide a system, apparatus, and method of controlling an intensity and spectrum of light emitted from a solid state lighting system. The solid state lighting has a first emitted spectrum at full intensity and at a selected temperature, with a first electrical biasing for the solid state lighting producing a first wavelength shift, and a second electrical biasing for the solid state lighting producing a second, opposing wavelength shift. Exemplary embodiments provide for receiving information designating a selected intensity level or a selected temperature; and providing a combined first electrical biasing and second electrical biasing to the solid state lighting to generate emitted light having the selected intensity level and having a second emitted spectrum within a predetermined variance of the first emitted spectrum over a predetermined range of temperatures. |
| US07956549B2 |
Power conversion structure
A power conversion structure includes a power factor correction circuit which has an energy storage coil, a switch and a voltage boosting control unit. The voltage boosting control unit drives the switch to set OFF and ON of the switch to change the period of current passing through the energy storage coil to alter the phase of the current. The energy storage coil is coupled with at least one induction coil to induce and generate driving power to energize lighting equipment. The amount of the driving power is determined by the coil ratio of the induction coil and the energy storage coil. Through the induction coil, the energy storage coil can be induced to generate the driving power which is determined by the coil ratio of the induction coil and energy storage coil. |
| US07956546B2 |
Modular LED light bulb
An LED-based lighting device and method for making the same are disclosed. The lighting device includes an LED light source mounted on a heat sink, a power adaptor, and a controller. The power adaptor is configured to be interchangeable with a conventional incandescent bulb power adapter. The controller provides an average current to the LED light source when power is coupled to the device via the power adaptor. The average current causes the LED light source to generate light of a predetermined standard intensity that is substantially independent of variations in the LED light source from device to device. In one aspect of the invention, the LED light source includes a plurality of LEDs connected in series, the LEDs are bonded to the heat sink and connected to one another in series by wire bonds and to conducting traces on the heat sink. |
| US07956544B2 |
Light source module, backlight assembly having the same, display device having the same and method for reducing number of wires used in interconnect cable of the same
A light source module includes a driving substrate, a plurality of light source blocks and a currents control element. The light source blocks are disposed on the driving substrate, and each of the light source blocks includes at least one light source. The currents control element is disposed on the driving substrate, and has channel terminals for individually controlling driving currents passed through at least two light source blocks. The channel terminals are electrically connected to the at least two light source blocks, respectively. The currents control element is disposed on the driving substrate and individually controls the driving currents applied to the light source blocks, so that a number of wires of a connection cable connected to a light source driving connector is less than the number of light source drive currents being individually controlled. |
| US07956537B2 |
Display device with cooperating groove and insert sealing structure and manufacturing method therefor
A display device includes: a support substrate including a display region where a plurality of display elements are arranged and a peripheral region where a drive circuit for each display element is provided in the periphery of the display region; a seal resin layer formed in at least the peripheral region; an opposed substrate bonded through the seal resin layer to the support substrate, sealing the display elements; an organic insulating film formed on the support substrate so as to insulate the drive circuit; a separation groove formed through the thickness of the organic insulating film so as to surround the display region and separate the organic insulating film into an inner portion and an outer portion; and a framelike projection formed on the opposed substrate so as to be opposed to the separation groove. |
| US07956533B2 |
Organic electroluminescent display device and manufacturing method thereof
An electroluminescent display device includes a display panel having scan lines, data lines, and pixel circuits. The pixel circuit includes an electroluminescent element having a first electrode layer, a first insulation film, and an emitting layer for displaying images. A driving circuit is coupled to the electroluminescent element. The first electrode layer is superimposed on a power source line, a scan line, or both, with a second insulation film therebetween. |
| US07956529B2 |
Organic electroluminescent color light-emitting apparatus with organic electroluminescent devices with adjusted optical distances between electrodes
An organic electroluminescent color light-emitting apparatus including, on a supporting substrate (100), a first pixel (10) comprising a first organic electroluminescent device emitting light having an emission peak wavelength of λ1; and a second pixel (20) comprising a second organic electroluminescent device emitting light having an emission peak wavelength of λ2; the emission peak wavelength λ2 being longer than λ1; the first and second organic electroluminescent devices each being a device in which a light-reflective electrode (11), (12), an organic luminescent medium layer and a semitransparent electrode are stacked in this order in the light-outcoupling direction; and m1 and m2 defined by the following formula (1) satisfying the relationship of m2+1.3>m1>m2+0.7 (m1 and/or m2 is an approximate integer of 0 or more). m x = 2 L x λ x + Φ x 2 π ( 1 ) |
| US07956527B2 |
Organic electroluminescence display panel and method for fabricating the same
An organic electroluminescence display panel and a method for fabricating the same are disclosed, wherein a line resistance is reduced and an adhesion between a glass substrate and a seal-cover is enhanced. The method includes forming an indium-tin-oxide strip being a transparent electrode, so as to apply an anode onto a glass substrate, forming a counter electrode in a grid form, so as to have a width smaller than that of the indium-tin-oxide strip, forming a first insulating layer and a barrier rib, serially forming an electroluminous layer and a cathode strip, and adhering a seal-cover to the glass substrate by using a sealant. |
| US07956518B2 |
Piezoelectric/electrostrictive ceramic composition and piezoelectric/electrostrictive device
The invention provides a (Li, Na, K)(Nb, Ta, Sb)O3 type piezoelectric/electrostrictive ceramic composition excellent in the electric field-induced strain at the time of high electric field application. The piezoelectric/electrostrictive film of a piezoelectric/electrostrictive actuator is a sintered body of a piezoelectric/electrostrictive ceramic composition. The piezoelectric/electrostrictive ceramic composition comprises a perovskite type oxide comprising as A site elements, Li, Na, and K and as B site elements, Nb and Sb and having a ratio of the total number of atoms of the A site elements to the total number of atoms of the B site elements greater than 1 and not less than 1 mol % and not more than 10 mol % of the number of Sb atoms in the total number of atoms of the B site elements and a Mn compound added to said perovskite type oxide. |
| US07956517B1 |
MEMS structure having a stress inverter temperature-compensated resonator member
A MEMS structure having a temperature-compensated resonator member is described. The MEMS structure comprises an asymmetric stress inverter member coupled with a substrate. A resonator member is housed in the asymmetric stress inverter member and is suspended above the substrate. The asymmetric stress inverter member is used to alter the thermal coefficient of frequency of the resonator member by inducing a stress on the resonator member in response to a change in temperature. |
| US07956514B2 |
Ultrasonic attenuation materials
Improved acoustic attenuation materials and applications are provided. An improved acoustic attenuation material may include a woven layer of fibers made of porous polymers, such as porous polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), that include interstitial space. An improved acoustic attenuation material may include sheets of porous polymers interleaved with layers of epoxy. The sheets of porous polymers may include through holes. An embodiment of an ultrasonic transducer that includes a backing with woven layers of porous PTFE fibers is provided. The ultrasonic transducer that includes a backing with woven layers of porous PTFE fibers may be used in a three-dimensional ultrasound imaging apparatus. An embodiment of an ultrasonic transducer that includes a plurality of sheets of porous PTFE interleaved with layers of epoxy is provided. The ultrasonic transducer that includes a plurality of sheets of porous PTFE may be used in an ultrasonic imaging catheter. |
| US07956505B2 |
Rotor of electric motor for simplifying manufacturing process and electric motor having the same
A rotor of an electric motor includes lamination core formed by laminating a plurality of individual cores, and at least one pair of magnet members that generate rotating torque by electromagnetic interaction with a stator, are provided at the lamination core such that a magnetic sensor can sense magnetic flux, and have magnetic poles opposite to each other, such that a position of the rotor of the electric motor can be accurately detected and a process of manufacturing the electric motor can be simplified. |
| US07956503B2 |
Dual armature motor/generator with flux linkage
The present invention relates to cylindrical rotating electric machines which comprise armature and field coils, with either the field coil or the dual armature being the rotating component. The dual armature is composed of two concentric cylindrical sets of coils with the field coil situated in the gap between the inner and outer armature sections. Relative rotational motion between the field and armature coils can be achieved by having either one be the rotor. By using two armature coil sections, one inside the field coil aperture and the other external to the field coil, the flux linkage between the armature and superconducting field coil can be approximately doubled. This is a more efficient use of the superconductor. The increased flux linkage in the invented technology produces a substantially higher power density than can be obtained with current conventional superconducting machine technology. |
| US07956501B2 |
Motor and washing machine using the same
Disclosed is a motor which includes a stator including a plurality of aluminum coils and a rotor. The rotor includes a frame including a magnetic material, and a permanent magnet attached to the frame. The permanent magnet is made of neodymium. |
| US07956500B2 |
Liquid-cooled machine
A machine includes an inner air-cooled rotor and an outer liquid-cooled stator, in which the stator includes a radial cooling arrangement arranged to convey a cooling liquid radially in the stator. |
| US07956494B2 |
Versatile and intelligent power controller
The invention provides a monolithic, highly integrated power supply circuit capable of providing various voltages for circuits on an expansion card, either from a main supply source or an auxiliary supply source. The monolithic power supply circuit preferably includes two switching converters, two low-drop-out regulators, a standby regulator, a reset circuit, and a control circuit. An associated method for providing various voltages via a monolithic power supply circuit is also disclosed. |
| US07956493B2 |
Integrated circuit and method for manufacturing an integrated circuit
One or more embodiments of the invention relate to an integrated circuit including a first power supply domain and at least a second power supply domain. Furthermore, the integrated circuit includes a radio frequency element connected between the first power supply domain and the second power supply domain. |
| US07956492B2 |
Outlet switch socket device
An outlet switch socket device includes a plug, at least one socket, at least one switch, a power converter, a communication module, a microprocessor and an infrared module. Moreover, the plug is used to receive an alternating current. Each switch is respectively coupled between each corresponding socket and the plug. The power converter is coupled to the plug and converts the alternating current into a direct current, thereby supplying the direct current to the microprocessor. Moreover, the microprocessor receives the direct current from the power converter and receives a control signal from a remote control via the communication module. Furthermore, the microprocessor is used to control those switches according to the control signal and transmits the control signal to the infrared module. The infrared module is used to output an infrared signal to control an infrared device. |
| US07956486B2 |
Windmill electric generator for hydroelectric power system
A windmill electric generator includes a support base, an inline generator assembly, a large generator, a variable blade pitch housing and a plurality of blades. The support base includes a pedestal support and a rotating support. The inline generator assembly includes a generator support structure, a plurality of inline generators and a drive shaft. The generator support structure is attached to a top of the rotating support. Large generator support members are attached to the generator support structure. The variable blade pitch housing is attached to one end of the drive shaft. The plurality of blades are pivotally retained on the variable blade pitch housing. The large generator includes a rotor and a stator assembly. The rotor is retained on the other end of the drive shaft. The stator assembly is attached to an end of the plurality of large generator support members. |
| US07956485B1 |
Potential energy storage apparatus using energy from a wind energy generator
An apparatus and method for storing and using wind energy. The apparatus has a hub, blades extending radially outwardly from the hub, a first shaft interconnected to the hub, a generator connected to the first shaft, a first coupler, a transmission connected to a portion of the first shaft opposite the hub, a second shaft extending from the transmission, a second coupler, a first pulley connected to the second shaft, a second pulley positioned below the first pulley, a line extending around the first and second pulleys, a fluid receptacle affixed to the line, an elevated reservoir positioned adjacent the first pulley, a base reservoir positioned below the second pulley, a pump positioned between the elevated reservoir and the base reservoir, and a control valve connected to the elevated reservoir. |
| US07956484B2 |
Wind turbine, method for mounting a wind turbine and method for adjusting an air gap between a rotor and a stator of a generator of a wind turbine
A wind turbine including a bedplate, a main shaft and a direct drive generator is disclosed. The main shaft pivots relative to the bedplate by a first and second bearing. The direct drive generator includes a rotor connected to the main shaft and a stator containing a hollow part like housing substantially arranged around the rotor and containing a first endplate, a second endplate and a casing element connecting the first and the second endplate to each other. The second endplate of the stator is at least indirectly attached to the bedplate. |
| US07956481B2 |
Miniature hydro-power generation system
A miniature hydro-power generation system includes an outer housing and an inner housing. The outer housing may receive a flow of liquid flowing in a first direction at a predetermined range of pressure. The flow of liquid may be decreased by a predetermined amount of pressure and increased by a predetermined amount of velocity and channeled to a hydro-generator included in the inner housing with an inlet nozzle. The flow of liquid may be channeled with the inlet nozzle to flow in a second direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction. Upon transfer of kinetic energy in the flow of liquid to the hydro-generator, the inner housing may rotate in the second direction. The flow of liquid may then be channeled back to the first direction and out of the housing with an outlet nozzle. The outlet nozzle configured to increase the pressure and decrease the velocity of the flow of liquid to minimized non-laminar flow characteristics. |
| US07956480B2 |
Faucet generator
A faucet generator includes a case having water inflow and outflow ports and in which a water supply channel is formed, a rotor vane disposed inside the water supply channel, a magnet which is rotatable integrally with the rotor vane, a bearing which supports a force that the rotor vane receives from a water flow, a coil which produces an electromotive force by a rotation of the magnet, and a yoke having a base part surrounding the coil and a plurality of inductors spaced apart from each other and extending from the base part. The coil is spaced apart from the magnet in an axial direction of a rotation center axis of the magnet and is disposed to face the magnet, the magnet is magnetized on an outer circumferential face which intersects with a plane perpendicular to the rotation center axis, and the inductors are disposed outside the case to face the outer circumferential face of the magnet. |
| US07956474B1 |
Structures, architectures, systems, methods, algorithms and software for configuring an integrated circuit for multiple packaging types
Structures, architectures, systems, an integrated circuit, methods and software for configuring an integrated circuit for multiple packaging types and/or selecting one of a plurality of packaging types for an integrated circuit. The structure generally comprises a bump pad, a plurality of bond pads configured for independent electrical connection to the bump pad, and a plurality of conductive traces, each adapted to electrically connect one of the bond pads to the bump pad. The software is generally configured to place and route components of such a structure. The method of configuring generally includes the steps of forming the bump pad, the bond pads, and the conductive traces from an uppermost metal layer, and forming an insulation layer thereover. The method of selecting generally comprises the uppermost metal layer-forming step, and forming either (i) a wire bond to at least one of the bond pads, or (ii) a bumping metal configured to electrically connect at least one of the bond pads to the bump pad. The present invention advantageously provides reduced manufacturing costs and reduced inventory management issues by enabling one device to be manufactured at a wafer level for a plurality of different packaging options, thereby enabling packaging decisions to be made at a later time in the manufacturing process. |
| US07956465B2 |
Reducing resistivity in interconnect structures of integrated circuits
An integrated circuit structure having improved resistivity and a method for forming the same are provided. The integrated circuit structure includes a dielectric layer, an opening in the dielectric layer, an oxide-based barrier layer directly on sidewalls of the opening, and conductive materials filling the remaining portion of the opening. |
| US07956461B2 |
Semiconductor apparatus including semiconductor chip with stress material selectively provided in region of wiring layer
In order to solve a problem of occurrence of delamination of interlayer film due to occurrence of a crack in an LSI wiring layer in a UBM lower layer immediately under a solder bump in an outer periphery of an LSI chip, a semiconductor apparatus of the present invention includes a stress boundary between compressive stress and tensile stress in an LSI wiring layer of a bump lower layer and in order to alleviate the stress present in the bump lower layer tensile stress material is arranged on a compressive stress side or compressive stress material is arranged on a tensile stress side with a stress boundary of the LSI wiring layer as a boundary. |
| US07956459B2 |
Semiconductor device and method of assembly
An encapsulated leadless semiconductor package comprises a first semiconductor die and a second semiconductor die which are electrically connected by a bond wire. The lower surface of the first semiconductor die and the lower surface of the second semiconductor die are essentially coplanar with the lower surface of the encapsulation material. |
| US07956456B2 |
Thermal interface material design for enhanced thermal performance and improved package structural integrity
An electronic package comprising a semiconductor device, a heat spreader layer, and a thermal interface material layer located between the semiconductor device and the heat spreader layer. The thermal interface material layer includes a resin layer having heat conductive particles suspended therein. A portion of the particles are exposed on at least one non-planar surface of the resin layer such that the portion of exposed particles occupies a majority of a total area of a horizontal plane of the non-planar surface. |
| US07956454B2 |
Wiring board and ceramic chip to be embedded
A wiring board includes a substrate core and a ceramic chip to be embedded therein. The substrate core has a housing opening portion opening at a core main surface. The ceramic chip is accommodated in the housing opening portion so that the core main surface and a chip first main surface face the same way. The ceramic chip includes a plurality of second terminal electrodes comprised of a metallized layer and formed on the chip second main surface so as to protrude therefrom. A projecting portion, disposed on the second main surface side so as to surround a plurality of the second terminal electrodes, is formed on the chip second main surface so as to protrude therefrom. |
| US07956450B2 |
Multi-chip package
A multi-chip package is presented which includes a substrate, a lower semiconductor, an upper semiconductor chip, metal wires, an encapsulant, and mounting units. The substrate has electrode terminals on an upper surface and ball lands on a lower surface. The lower semiconductor chip is placed face-down on the substrate. The lower semiconductor chip has first bonding pads, first connectors and metal patterns. The upper semiconductor chip is placed face-down type on the back surface of the lower semiconductor chip. The upper semiconductor has second bonding pads and second connectors. The metal wires electrically the lower semiconductor chip to the substrate. The encapsulant seals the substrate, the lower semiconductor chip, the upper semiconductor chip and the metal wires. The mounting units are on the lower surface of the substrate. |
| US07956446B2 |
Semiconductor device and method
A chip carrier includes first, second and third layers with the second layer situated between the first and third layers. The first and third layers are formed of a first material and the second layer is formed of a second material. The second layer has a plurality of holes extending therethrough and the first material fills the holes. |
| US07956444B2 |
Semiconductor device having electrode pad, and wireless circuit device including the semiconductor device
A semiconductor device includes a layered region (104) formed in a semiconductor substrate (101) of a first conductivity type, and an electrode pad (106) formed on the semiconductor substrate with an interlayer insulating film (105) interposed therebetween and placed above the layered region. The layered region includes a first impurity diffusion region (102), a second impurity diffusion region (103) formed on the first impurity diffusion region, and a third impurity diffusion region (102x) formed on the first impurity diffusion region and surrounding a periphery of the second impurity diffusion region. a conductivity type of the first impurity diffusion region and a conductivity type of the third impurity diffusion region are a second conductivity type, and a conductivity type of the second impurity diffusion region is the first conductivity type. An impurity concentration of the third impurity diffusion region is higher than an impurity concentration of the first impurity diffusion region, and the third impurity diffusion region is electrically connected to a terminal fixed to a constant potential. |
| US07956443B2 |
Through-wafer interconnects for photoimager and memory wafers
A through-wafer interconnect for imager, memory and other integrated circuit applications is disclosed, thereby eliminating the need for wire bonding, making devices incorporating such interconnects stackable and enabling wafer level packaging for imager devices. Further, a smaller and more reliable die package is achieved and circuit parasitics (e.g., L and R) are reduced due to the reduced signal path lengths. |
| US07956442B2 |
Backside connection to TSVs having redistribution lines
An integrated circuit structure includes a semiconductor substrate including a front side and a backside. A through-silicon via (TSV) penetrates the semiconductor substrate, and has a back end extending to the backside of the semiconductor substrate. A redistribution line (RDL) is over the backside of the semiconductor substrate and connected to the back end of the TSV. The integrated circuit structure further includes a passivation layer over the RDL; an opening in the passivation layer, wherein a portion of the RDL is exposed through the opening; and a nickel layer in the opening and contacting the RDL. |
| US07956432B2 |
Photodiode for multiple wavelength operation
A photodiode includes a substrate having a first semiconductor type surface region on at least a portion thereof, and a second semiconductor type surface layer formed in a portion of the surface region. A multi-layer anti-reflective coating (ARC) is on the second semiconductor type surface layer, wherein the multi-layer ARC comprises at least two different dielectric layers. A layer resistant to oxide etch is above a peripheral portion the multi-layer ARC. Further layers are above the layer resistant to oxide etch, and thereby above the peripheral portion the multi-layer ARC. A window extends down to the multi-layer ARC. A photodiode region is formed by a pn-junction of the first semiconductor type surface region and the second semiconductor type surface layer. |
| US07956430B2 |
Semiconductor device including groove width variation portion for inspection
An accelerator sensor includes a semiconductor substrate having a main front surface and a main rear surface, a first groove portion being formed along a front surface pattern, in the main front surface, a second groove portion being formed along a rear surface pattern, in the main rear surface, a through-hole being formed because of connection between at least parts of the first groove portion and the second groove portion and at least one groove width variation portion being formed in at least one of inner walls of the first groove portion. An offset of the rear surface pattern to the front surface pattern can be inspected easily by existence of the groove width variation portion. |
| US07956427B2 |
Nanosensors
Electrical devices comprised of nanowires are described, along with methods of their manufacture and use. The nanowires can be nanotubes and nanowires. The surface of the nanowires may be selectively functionalized. Nanodetector devices are described. |
| US07956425B1 |
Graded gate field
Thin film transistors (TFT) and methods for making same. The TFTs generally comprise: (a) a semiconductor layer comprising source and drain terminals and a channel region therebetween; (b) a gate electrode comprising a gate and a gate dielectric layer between the gate and the channel region; (c) a first dielectric layer adjacent to the gate electrode and in contact with the source and drain terminals, the first dielectric layer comprising a material which comprises a dopant therein; and (d) an electrically functional source/drain extensions in the channel region, adjacent to the source and drain terminals, comprising a material which comprises the same dopant as the first dielectric layer. |
| US07956423B2 |
Semiconductor device with trench gate and method of manufacturing the same
A method of a semiconductor device, which includes an insulated-gate FET and an electronic element, includes three steps. The first step is the step of forming a trench gate of the insulated-gate FET in a first region of a semiconductor base and a trench element-isolation layer in a second region of the semiconductor base, simultaneously. The second step is the step of forming a first diffusion layer of the insulated-gate FET on a side of the trench gate and a second diffusion layer of the electronic element in a region surrounded by the trench element-isolation layer, simultaneously. The third step is the step of forming a third diffusion layer of the insulated-gate FET in the first diffusion layer and a fourth diffusion layer of the electronic element in the second diffusion layer, simultaneously. |
| US07956422B2 |
Semiconductor device, method for fabricating the same, and transformer circuit using the same
A semiconductor device, a method for fabricating the same, and a transformer circuit using the same are disclosed. The semiconductor device includes a trench metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) transistor for switching a load of current supplied from a power source, and a boost controller for controlling driving of the trench MOS transistor, the boost controller being formed with the trench MOS transistor on a single semiconductor device to form an integrated structure. In this structure, the physical space of the semiconductor device is reduced, thereby reducing the size of a DC-DC transformer circuit using the semiconductor device. It is possible to obtain finely-adjusted output values by controlling values of the ripple current and ripple voltage. A desired operational stability according to a variation in temperature can also be secured. |
| US07956420B2 |
Low noise and high performance LSI device, layout and manufacturing method
In semiconductor devices in which both NMOS devices and PMOS devices are used to perform in different modes such as analog and digital modes, stress engineering is selectively applied to particular devices depending on their required operational modes. That is, the appropriate mechanical stress, i.e., tensile or compressive, can be applied to and/or removed from devices, i.e., NMOS and/or PMOS devices, based not only on their conductivity type, i.e., n-type or p-type, but also on their intended operational application, for example, analog/digital, low-voltage/high-voltage, high-speed/low-speed, noise-sensitive/noise-insensitive, etc. The result is that performance of individual devices is optimized based on the mode in which they operate. For example, mechanical stress can be applied to devices that operate in high-speed digital settings, while devices that operate in analog or RF signal settings, in which electrical noise such as flicker noise that may be introduced by applied stress may degrade performance, have no stress applied. |
| US07956419B2 |
Trench IGBT with depletion stop layer
A very low VCEON non punch through trench IGBT built-in non-epitaxial float zone silicon has a depletion stop layer structure added to its bottom surface. |
| US07956414B2 |
Semiconductor substrate, semiconductor device, method for manufacturing semiconductor substrate, and method for manufacturing semiconductor device
A semiconductor substrate comprising: a semiconductor base; dielectric layers of mutually different film thicknesses formed on the semiconductor base; and semiconductor layers of mutually different film thicknesses formed on the dielectric layers. |
| US07956410B2 |
Trench MOSFET with trench gates underneath contact areas of ESD diode for prevention of gate and source shortage
A trench DMOS transistor employing trench contacts has overvoltage protection for prevention of shortage between gate and source, comprising a plurality of first-type function trenched gates, at least one second-type function trenched gate and at least two third-type function trenched gates extending through body regions and into an epitaxial layer. The first-type function trenched gates are located in active area surrounded by a source region encompassed in the body region in the epitaxial layer for current conduction. The second-type function trenched gates are disposed underneath a gate metal with a gate trenched contacts filled with metal plug for gate metal connection. The third type function trenched gates are disposed directly and symmetrically underneath ESD trenched contact areas of anode and cathode in an ESD protection diode, serving as a buffer layer for prevention of gate-body shortage. |
| US07956409B2 |
Semiconductor device having trench gate structure
The present invention provides a vertical MOSFET which has striped trench gate structure which can secure avalanche resistance without increasing Ron. A vertical MOSFET 100 comprises a plurality of gate trenches 7 which is arranged in stripes, an array which is sandwiched with the plurality of gate trenches 7 and includes N+ source regions 4N+ and P+ base contact regions 5P+, and a diode region (anode region 6P+) which is formed so as to contact with two gate trenches 7. The N+ source regions 4N+ and the base contact regions 5P+ are alternately arranged along a longitudinal direction of the gate trench 7. Size of the diode region (anode region 6P+) corresponds to at least one of the N+ source regions 4N+ and two of the P+ base contact regions 5P+. |
| US07956407B2 |
Vertical type semiconductor device, method of manufacturing a vertical type semiconductor device and method of operating a vertical semiconductor device
A vertical pillar semiconductor device includes a substrate, a single crystalline semiconductor pattern, a gate insulation layer structure and a gate electrode. The substrate may include a first impurity region. The single crystalline semiconductor pattern may be on the first impurity region. The single crystalline semiconductor pattern has a pillar shape substantially perpendicular to the substrate. A second impurity region may be formed in an upper portion of the single crystalline semiconductor pattern. The gate insulation layer structure may include a charge storage pattern, the gate insulation layer structure on a sidewall of the single crystalline semiconductor pattern. The gate electrode may be formed on the gate insulation layer structure and opposite the sidewall of the single crystalline semiconductor pattern. The gate electrode has an upper face substantially lower than that of the single crystalline semiconductor pattern. |
| US07956405B2 |
Semiconductor storage element and manufacturing method thereof
A semiconductor storage element includes: a source region and a drain region provided in a semiconductor substrate; a tunnel insulating film provided on the semiconductor substrate between the source region and the drain region; a charge storage film provided on the tunnel insulating film; a block insulating film provided on the charge storage film; a gate electrode provided on the block insulating film; and a region containing a gas molecule, the region provided in a neighborhood of an interface between the charge storage film and the block insulating film. |
| US07956398B2 |
Capacitor of semiconductor device and method of fabricating the same
Disclosed are a capacitor of a semiconductor device and a method of fabricating the same. The capacitor includes a capacitor top electrode, a capacitor bottom electrode aligned with a bottom surface and three lateral sides of the capacitor top electrode, and a capacitor insulating layer between the capacitor top electrode and the capacitor bottom electrode. |
| US07956397B2 |
Semiconductor device, charge pumping circuit, and semiconductor memory circuit
A semiconductor device comprising: a first well region which is formed at a surface portion of a semiconductor substrate and to which a first voltage is applied; a gate insulating film which is formed on the first well region; a gate electrode which is formed on the gate insulating film and has a polarity different from a polarity of the first well region and to which a second voltage is applied; and an element isolating region which is formed at a surface portion of the first well region to surround a region within the first well region that is opposed to the gate insulating film, wherein a capacitance is formed between the region within the first well region surrounded by the element isolating region and the gate electrode. |
| US07956395B2 |
Spin transistor and magnetic memory
A spin transistor includes a first ferromagnetic layer provided on a substrate and having an invariable magnetization direction, a second ferromagnetic layer provided on the substrate apart from the first ferromagnetic layer in a first direction, and having a variable magnetization direction, a plurality of projecting semiconductor layers provided on the substrate to extend in the first direction, and sandwiched between the first ferromagnetic layer and the second ferromagnetic layer, a plurality of channel regions respectively provided in the projecting semiconductor layers, and a gate electrode provided on the channel regions. |
| US07956387B2 |
Transistor and memory cell array
A transistor, which is formed in a semiconductor substrate having a top surface, includes first and second source/drain regions, a channel connecting the first and second source/drain regions, and a gate electrode for controlling an electrical current flowing in the channel. The gate electrode is disposed in a lower portion of a gate groove defined in the top surface of the semiconductor substrate. The upper portion of the groove is filled with an insulating material. The channel includes a fin-like portion in the shape of a ridge having a top side and two lateral sides in a cross-section perpendicular to a direction defined by a line connecting the first and second source/drain regions. The gate electrode encloses the channel at the top side and the two lateral sides thereof. |
| US07956384B2 |
Closed cell configuration to increase channel density for sub-micron planar semiconductor power device
A semiconductor power device supported on a semiconductor substrate that includes a plurality of transistor cells, each cell has a source and a drain region disposed on opposite sides of a gate region in the semiconductor substrate. A gate electrode is formed as an electrode layer on top of the gate region for controlling an electric current transmitted between the source and the drain regions. The gate electrode layer disposed on top of the semiconductor substrate is patterned into a wave-like shaped stripes for substantially increasing an electric current conduction area between the source and drain regions across the gate. |
| US07956383B2 |
Field effect transistor
A field effect transistor includes: a first nitride semiconductor layer having a plane perpendicular to a (0001) plane or a plane tilted with respect to the (0001) plane as a main surface; a second nitride semiconductor layer formed on the first nitride semiconductor layer and having a wider bandgap than the first nitride semiconductor layer; a third nitride semiconductor layer formed on the second nitride semiconductor layer; and a source electrode and a drain electrode formed so as to contact at least a part of the second nitride semiconductor layer or the third nitride semiconductor layer. A recess that exposes a part of the second nitride semiconductor layer is formed between the source electrode and the drain electrode in the third nitride semiconductor layer. A gate electrode is formed in the recess and an insulating film is formed between the third nitride semiconductor layer and the gate electrode. |
| US07956375B2 |
Light emitting diode structure having a textured package lens
A light emitting diode structure and a light emitting diode structure forming method are provided. The light emitting diode structure includes a base, a diode chip, and a package lens. The diode chip is mounted on the base. The package lens covers the diode chip. The surface of the package lens includes a plurality of dot structures. The steps of the method include mounting a light-emitting diode chip on a base, assembling a package lens to cover the light emitting diodes chip, and forming a plurality of dot structures on the surface of the package lens. |
| US07956374B2 |
Semiconductor light-emitting device
The invention discloses a semiconductor light-emitting device. The semiconductor light-emitting device according to the invention includes a substrate, a multi-layer structure, at least one electrode structure, and a light reflector. The substrate has an upper surface. The multi-layer structure is formed on the upper surface of the substrate. The multi-layer structure includes a light-emitting region and at least one semiconductor material layer. The multi-layer structure also has a top surface. The at least one electrode structure is formed on the top surface of the multi-layer structure. The light reflector is formed on the top surface of the multi-layer structure. |
| US07956370B2 |
Silicon based solid state lighting
A semiconductor device includes a substrate comprising a first surface having a [111] orientation and a second surface having a second orientation and a plurality of III-V nitride layers on the substrate, wherein the plurality of III-V nitride layers are configured to emit light when an electric current is produced in one or more of the plurality of III-V nitride layers. |
| US07956366B2 |
Monolithic light emitting device and driving method therefor
A monolithic light-emitting device and driving method therefore includes a plurality of light-emitting diodes, array-arranged monolithically on a single substrate. The light-emitting diodes include a pn junction-containing semiconductor material and a phosphor-containing layer passing light emitted from the semiconductor material, absorbing part, or whole of the light for conversion into light having a different wavelength. The array is constituted of a light-emitting diode group consisting of m (m≧2) pieces of the light-emitting diode, the light emitting diode group being constituted of N types (N≧2, providing N≦m) of light-emitting diodes, each having either one of preset N types of light-emitting spectrum patterns. An average light-emitting spectrum from the whole array can be changed by regulating a power supplied to the light-emitting diodes for each light-emitting diode group sorted according to the type of the light-emitting spectrum pattern. |
| US07956363B2 |
Substrate for display device and liquid crystal display device having the same
The present invention relates to a substrate for a liquid crystal display device and a liquid crystal display device having the substrate, an object of the invention is to provide such a substrate for a display device that can be obtained by a simple production method with high reliability, and a liquid crystal display device having the same. A substrate for a display device contains: an accumulated electrode having an accumulated structure containing a lower layer formed on a substrate, and a upper layer containing ZnO and formed on the lower layer; an insulating film covering the accumulated electrode; a contact hole opening in the insulating film on the accumulated electrode; and a pixel electrode formed on the insulating film and being connected directly to the upper layer of the accumulated electrode through the contact hole. |
| US07956358B2 |
I-shaped phase change memory cell with thermal isolation
A memory device includes two electrodes, vertically separated and having mutually opposed contact surfaces, between which lies a phase change cell. The phase change cell includes an upper phase change member, having a contact surface in electrical contact with the first electrode; a lower phase change member, having a contact surface in electrical contact with the second electrode; and a kernel member disposed between and in electrical contact with the upper and lower phase change members. The phase change cell is formed of material having at least two solid phases, and the lateral extent of the upper and lower phase change members is substantially greater than that of the kernel member. An intermediate insulating layer is disposed between the upper and lower phase change members adjacent to the kernel member. |
| US07956357B2 |
Test pads coupled with leads unconnected with die pads
Timely testing of die on wafer reduces the cost to manufacture ICs. This disclosure describes a die test structure and process to reduce test time by adding test pads on the top surface of the die. The added test pads allow a tester to probe and test more circuits within the die simultaneously. Also, the added test pads contribute to a reduction in the amount of test wiring overhead traditionally required to access and test circuits within a die, thus reducing die size. |
| US07956356B2 |
Sapphire substrates and methods of making same
A sapphire substrate includes a generally planar surface having a crystallographic orientation selected from the group consisting of a-plane, r-plane, m-plane, and c-plane orientations, and having a nTTV of not greater than about 0.037 μm/cm2, wherein nTTV is total thickness variation normalized for surface area of the generally planar surface, the substrate having a diameter not less than about 9.0 cm. |
| US07956354B2 |
Method of manufacturing an organic thin film transistor, and an organic electroluminescene display device having the organic thin film transistor
Provided is a method of patterning an organic thin film which can prevent surface damage of an organic semiconductor layer. Also, an organic thin film transistor that can reduce an off-current and can prevent surface damage of the organic semiconductor layer and a method of manufacturing the organic thin film transistor, and an organic electroluminescence display device having the organic thin film transistor are provided. The method of patterning the organic thin film includes forming the organic thin film on a substrate, selectively printing a mask material on a portion of the organic thin film, dry etching an exposed portion of the organic thin film using the mask material, and removing the mask material. |
| US07956353B2 |
Organic semiconductor element
By introducing new concepts into a structure of a conventional organic semiconductor element and without using a conventional ultra thin film, an organic semiconductor element is provided which is more reliable and has higher yield. Further, efficiency is improved particularly in a photoelectronic device using an organic semiconductor. Between an anode and a cathode, there is provided an organic structure including alternately laminated organic thin film layer (functional organic thin film layer) realizing various functions by making an SCLC flow, and a conductive thin film layer (ohmic conductive thin film layer) imbued with a dark conductivity by doping it with an acceptor and a donor, or by the like method. |
| US07956351B2 |
Organic light emitting device and method for fabricating the same
An organic light emitting device includes a first electrode disposed on a first substrate and comprising an emission area and an non-emission area, a plurality of barrier ribs located on a portion of the non-emission area of the first electrode, each barrier rib having an overhang structure, auxiliary electrodes disposed on a portion of a lower part of the barrier ribs and electrically contacting the first electrode, an emission layer disposed on the emission area of the first electrode and a second electrode disposed on the emission layer. |
| US07956347B2 |
Integrated modulating retro-reflector
A novel package that integrates components for a modulating retro reflector into a single package is disclosed according to various embodiments. According to some embodiments the package is configured to secure a retro reflector, a quantum well modulator and photodiode. In some embodiments, the package may include interconnects to surface mount to a circuit board. Such interconnects may be coupled with the photodiode and/or the quantum well modulator. In some embodiments, the package may be constructed of liquid crystal polymers and/or may include one or more windows. |
| US07956342B2 |
Phase change material for use in a phase change random access memory, the phase change material having uniformly distributed insulating impurities
Insulating impurities may be uniformly distributed over an entire or partial region of the phase change material. The PRAM may include a phase change layer including the phase change material. The insulating impurity content of the phase change material may be 0.1 to 10% (inclusive) the volume of the phase change material. The insulating impurity content of the phase change material may be adjusted by controlling the power applied to a target including the insulating impurities. |
| US07956341B2 |
System and method of non-invasive continuous level sensing using a linear sensor array
Embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for detecting the level of a fluid in a surgical cassette by projecting light from a linear light source into a wall of a cassette. Depending on the amount a light reflected or refracted in the cassette (i.e., due to the cassette material/fluid interface or cassette material/air interface (or other interface)) various portions of a linear sensor array will be more or less illuminated. By examining the illumination of the linear sensor array, the level of fluid in the chamber can be determined. |
| US07956340B2 |
Light concentrator for an optical code reader
An optical receiving device (31) for an optical code reader is described, comprising a solid body, of a transparent material, having a light input face (32), a light output face (33) for coupling with a photodetector device (30), said output face (33) being substantially perpendicular to said input face (32), and an oblique face (34) with respect to both said input face (32) and said output face (34), characterized in that the mutual orientation of the faces (32-38, 40-42, 40′, 41′, 42′) of the optical receiving device (31) is such that the light entering from said input face (32) within a desired field of view is concentrated onto said output face (33) by total internal reflection. |
| US07956336B2 |
Focused ion beam apparatus
An object of the present invention is to provide a focused ion beam apparatus that is capable of obtaining a much larger beam current and forming a focused ion beam with smaller aberration than a conventional focused ion beam apparatus no matter whether the level of acceleration is high or low. The focused ion beam apparatus according to the present invention includes a liquid metal ion source, an extraction electrode for extracting an ion beam from the liquid metal ion source, an acceleration (ground) electrode for accelerating an ion beam, and an electrostatic lens for converging an ion beam. When the acceleration voltage applied to the liquid metal ion source is lower than an emission threshold voltage of the liquid metal ion source, the voltage of the extraction electrode is at a lower potential than the voltage of the acceleration (ground) electrode. The polarity of a voltage applied to the electrostatic lens changes in accordance with the polarity of a voltage applied to the extraction electrode. The present invention makes it possible to exercise a deceleration mode focusing method at a high acceleration voltage from the dielectric strength voltage of an electrostatic lens and exercise an acceleration mode focusing method at a low acceleration voltage with an electrostatic lens having the same focal length as for the deceleration mode focusing method. |
| US07956327B2 |
Method for determining degree of aging of a polymer resin material
A method of determining degree of aging of an incompletely cured polymer resin material collecting IR spectra on a series of standards with carefully controlled aging time and data collected at appropriate time intervals with the standard LC method for determining cure condition of the material, using said spectra and LC data to make a multivariate calibration model and using said model to predict the cure condition of uncured samples of interest. |
| US07956325B2 |
Imaging apparatus and image signal processing device
Infrared light emitted by a fluorescent material is weak. When an infrared image obtained by this fluorescent material is superposed and displayed on a visible-light image, the infrared image is made clear. A signal |
| US07956323B2 |
Ion mobility spectrometer and method for determining an analyte substance or an analyte substance mixture in the presence of a dopant mixture by means of an ion mobility spectrometer
The present invention pertains to a method for determining an analyte substance or analyte substance mixture of ammonia and/or N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone as a component of a gas in the presence of a dopant mixture by means of an ion mobility spectrometer and to a corresponding ion mobility spectrometer. |
| US07956320B2 |
Data processor for mass spectrometer
A main peak list is created with the data obtained by an MSn analysis (S1), the difference between the mass-to-charge ratio of each product ion listed on this main peak list and that of the precursor ion is calculated (S2), and an auxiliary peak list for forming a virtual peak corresponding to the mass-to-charge ratio difference is created (S3). On the same graph, an MSn spectrum data is created so that each peak listed on the main peak list and each peak listed on the auxiliary peak list are drawn with different display colors (S4), and the MSn spectrum is displayed on the display screen (S5). Consequently, an MSn analysis result for a plurality of precursor ions with different mass-to-charge ratios becomes easy to be compared. In particular, it is possible to easily and visually determine whether or not a fragment having the same mass-to-charge ratio desorbed by a dissociation exists. |
| US07956317B2 |
Fibre optic probe
A bidirectional fiber optic probe comprises an optical in/out coupler and a single fiber or a bundle of fibers, each fiber having a proximal end and a distal end and a numerical aperture NA=sin θ. The numerical aperture NA describes the range of angles over which the optical fiber's proximal end can accept or emit light. The numerical aperture depends on the refractive index n of the fiber core and is given by NA=n sin* θ. θ is the acceptance angle being defined as the half angle of the acceptance cone of the fiber at its proximal end. |
| US07956313B2 |
Solid-state image pickup device
There is provided a solid-state image pickup device that has a plurality of scanning lines that extends in a predetermined direction, a plurality of data lines that extends in a direction for intersecting the scanning lines, and a plurality of bias lines within an image pickup area on a substrate. For each of a plurality of pixels disposed in positions corresponding to intersections of the plurality of scanning lines and the plurality of data lines, a field effect transistor that is controlled by the scanning line and a photoelectric conversion element that has a electrode electrically connected to the data line through the field effect transistor and a electrode electrically connected to the bias line are formed, and a constant electric potential line for electrostatic protection is formed on the substrate. For each of bias lines, a bias line electrostatic protection circuit having a protection diode. |
| US07956311B2 |
Spectroscopic device
Quantitative comparison or calculation of a plurality of images in different transmission bands is facilitated even if the transmission bandwidth of the spectroscopic element is different at different wavelengths. Provided is a spectroscopic device (1) including: a tunable spectroscopic element that changes the transmission band of light passing through coating layers provided on a plurality of optical substrates facing each other with a distance therebetween by adjusting the optical path length between the coating layers; an image acquisition section for acquiring an image of the light transmitted through the tunable spectroscopic element to acquire a spectroscopic image; a storage section (18) for storing information about spectral characteristics corresponding to the wavelength of light transmitted through the tunable spectroscopic element; and an image correction section (21) for correcting the spectroscopic image acquired by the image acquisition section using the information about the spectral characteristics stored in the storage section (18) with respect to each wavelength of light transmitted through the tunable spectroscopic element. |
| US07956309B2 |
Cooking apparatus
A burner for a glass top stove includes a heating element, and a reflector. The reflector is shaped to reflect heat and light emitted down and to the sides of the heater back up to the glass top of the burner. The reflector is shaped to form multiple images of the heater on the glass plate. This ensures uniform heating of the glass plate. It also causes a user to believe that there are more heaters than are actually mounted on the burner. |
| US07956307B2 |
Circuit breaker having automatic release linkage
Disclosed is a circuit breaker having an automatic release linkage capable of preventing damage and deformation of elements by automatic linkage release before electro-impulsive force generated from within the circuit breaker by a large short-circuit current causes the damage and deformation of open/close linkage. |
| US07956298B2 |
Inhibitor switch for automatic transmission
A movable contact board is engaged to a detent plate and the movable contact board is provided with a plurality of support portions, for example, four legs for supporting a stationary contact board and, on the other hand, the stationary contact board is provided with a plurality of guide grooves for reciprocally guiding the four support portions (legs) in the movable contact board along the rotational direction. Further, the plurality of the support portions (leg) are configured of the support portions, for example, four legs extending generally vertically from the movable contact board so as to straddle stationary contact points and bending portions provided in the four respective legs to penetrate through the pair of the guide grooves in the stationary contact board for supporting the stationary contact board from the backside. Thereby, an inhibitor switch preferable in view of reduction in the number of components and reduction in a plastic amount can be provided. |
| US07956297B2 |
Water resistant quick stop scale damper
A water resistant scale damper has a damper sleeve with an interior passage, an open top, and an open bottom. A piston is received in and axially slidable along the interior passage and has a top surface, an underside, and a piston rod extending from the underside toward the open bottom. A top cap is fitted over the open top of the sleeve and an air chamber is created between the top cap and the top surface of the piston. An air passage is formed through the top cap to permit air to enter and exit the air chamber. A portion of the top cap can create an elongate, non-linear air channel between the air passage and a port remote from the air passage and formed through the top cap. A bottom cap can also be fitted over the open bottom of the sleeve. The bottom cap has an annular flange that extends radially inward from a skirt of the bottom cap. The flange is funnel-shaped so as to direct liquid from beneath the underside of the piston toward a central opening in the flange. The piston rod extends through the central opening in the flange and a liquid drain gap is formed between the piston rod and the flange at the central opening. |
| US07956295B2 |
Method and apparatus for finished installation of electrical outlet box without use of external cover plate
An electrical outlet box installation in which there is no exposed cover plate, only the operative portion of the electrical component is visible at the wall surface. The operative portion of the component may be an electrical outlet, jack, switch, knob, or light, for example. The body of the electrical component is housed within the outlet box, also referred to as a junction box, with the open side of the outlet box being covered by a plate assembly having an opening that closely surrounds the operative portion of the component. The surface of the plate assembly is covered with wallboard mud, or other wall finishing material, which is blended into the surrounding surface of the wall so that only the operative portion of the component is exposed. The plate assembly includes a projecting wall or lip around the opening, up to which the mud or other fill material is applied. The wall covering may also be panelling, stone, tile or similar materials, in which instances the operative portion of the component may protrude somewhat from the plate assembly so as to be positioned at the surface of the overlay material. Configurations are provided for use with conventionally shaped outlet boxes and components, and additional configurations are provided which employ specially shaped components which are removably installed in cooperating receptacles formed in the plate assemblies. |
| US07956294B2 |
System and method for protection against skimming of information from contactless cards
Contactless payment cards with on-card microchips are transported in mailers with RF shielding. The RF shielding is designed to prevent communication with and skimming of information from the contactless cards enclosed in the mailers while in transit. |
| US07956293B2 |
Multilayer printed wiring board and manufacturing method thereof
A multilayer printed wiring board is characterized in that the interlayer connection material in the via holes has a lower coefficient of thermal expansion in the thickness direction than the electrically insulating substrate made of insulating material; the interlayer connection is formed at a temperature higher than the operating temperature; and the interlayer connection material is larger in thickness than the interlayer connection material of the same wiring layer at normal temperature. This causes a difference in the coefficient of thermal expansion between the different materials in the thickness direction of the printed wiring board in the environment in which it is used resulting in high connection reliability. |
| US07956292B2 |
Printed circuit board manufacturing method, printed circuit board, and electronic apparatus
A printed circuit board manufacturing method includes: a hole-forming step of forming a through hole in a substrate that will become an element of a printed circuit board after manufacturing; and a jig insertion step of inserting a jig in the through hole formed in the hole-forming step such that the jig adheres to a portion of an inner wall of the through hole, the inner wall having a portion connecting to the outside of the through hole. The method further includes a conductive-film forming step of forming a conductive film only on the portion of the inner wall of the through hole connecting to the outside of the through hole, after the jig is inserted into the through hole in the jig insertion step. |
| US07956287B2 |
Transparent conductive formed article for a touch panel and touch panel
A touch panel-use transparent conductive molded product having a conductive layer excellent in wear resistance and flexing resistance, small in surface resistivity change when the touch panel is in use, and free from a change in transmitted light hue, and a touch panel using it. The touch panel-use transparent conductive molded product comprises a fine-conductive-fibers (4)-containing, transparent conductive layer (12) formed on at least one surface of a transparent substrate (11), and the touch panel uses the above transparent conductive molded product as an electrode. The fine conductive fibers in the transparent conductive layer (12) are dispersed without being aggregated, and touch each other while being dispersed with each of them separated from each other or each bundle of several fibers separated from each other. Therefore, it is possible to control a surface resistivity to 104Ω/□ or smaller, and a conductive layer light beam transmittance at a wavelength of 550 nm to 75% or larger. |
| US07956284B2 |
In-ceiling zone cabling enclosure
An in-ceiling cabling enclosure for supporting communications network equipment and cables interconnecting the network equipment including a front wall, a rear wall, and two side walls extending between the front wall and the rear wall creating a volume inside the enclosure. An access door assembly is pivotally connected to either the rear wall or the two side walls. The access door assembly pivots through an arc of ninety degrees between a first position opening the enclosure and a second position closing the enclosure. An equipment mount plate is attached to an interior portion of the access door assembly, and opposed equipment mount rails are removably attached to the equipment mount plate. The equipment mount rails are adapted to receive the network equipment and to secure the network equipment to the access door assembly. A cable slack management tray extends between the opposed equipment mount rails, and the slack management tray has a surface adapted to support and maintain the position and the contour of cable bundles located in the enclosure. A thermal management system is also disposed in the housing to provide efficient exhaust of hot air generated by active equipment in the enclosure to the space outside of the enclosure. |
| US07956271B1 |
Musical rhythmic teaching block system
A set of music instructional blocks includes a number of blocks having mating magnets on two opposing sides thereof and musical indicia on the four remaining sides. The musical indicia represent standard rhythmic notes, musical rests and time signatures. The blocks having musical indicia representing standard rhythmic notes are sized proportionally to the note represented, with the quarter note being the primary sized block. For instructional practice, the blocks can be connected together by the magnets to form musical sequences. |
| US07956263B1 |
Capo systems
A capo system for stringed instruments, in particular, guitars. A preferred embodiment of the system comprises a clamping assembly in combination with an under-string deflection limiter configured to limit deflection of the strings when clamped. |
| US07956260B2 |
Guzmania hybrid named ‘MISTY’
A new and distinct Guzmania hybrid named ‘MISTY’ characterized by solid growth habit; funnel-form rosette plant, measuring about 42 cm to 46 cm in height (above the pot when flowering); numerous, relatively narrow (measuring about 28 cm to 32 cm in length and about 1.5 cm to 2.5 cm in width color foliage, green in color foliage; superior floral bract production; bracts are greyed-purple in color (closest to RHS 187C); spike inflorescence, measuring about 16 cm in height and about 8 cm to 10 cm in diameter; and long-lasting habit. |
| US07956258B2 |
Guzmania hybrid named ‘METEOR’
A new and distinct Guzmania hybrid named ‘METEOR’ characterized by solid growth habit; funnel-form rosette plant, measuring about 42 cm to 48 cm in height (above the pot when flowering); numerous, green color foliage, measuring about 32 cm to 38 cm in length and about 3.4 cm to 4.6 cm in width; superior floral bract production; bracts have a unique, compound red inflorescence (closest to RHS 46A) which distinguishes this cultivar from typical Guzmania; compound inflorescence, measuring about 7 cm in height and about 15 cm in diameter; and long-lasting habit. |
| US07956256B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH300898
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH300898. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH300898, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH300898 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH300898. |
| US07956255B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH210161
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH210161. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH210161, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH210161 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH210161. |
| US07956253B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH475849
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH475849. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH475849, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH475849 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH475849. |
| US07956244B1 |
Soybean variety RJS25004
According to the invention, there is provided a novel soybean variety designated RJS25004. This invention thus relates to the seeds of soybean variety RJS25004, to the plants of soybean RJS25004 to plant parts of soybean variety RJS25004 and to methods for producing a soybean plant produced by crossing plants of the soybean variety RJS25004 with another soybean plant, using RJS25004 as either the male or the female parent. |
| US07956243B1 |
Soybean variety RJS34003
According to the invention, there is provided a novel soybean variety designated RJS34003. This invention thus relates to the seeds of soybean variety RJS34003, to the plants of soybean RJS34003 to plant parts of soybean variety RJS34003 and to methods for producing a soybean plant produced by crossing plants of the soybean variety RJS34003 with another soybean plant, using RJS34003 as either the male or the female parent. |
| US07956241B2 |
Plant having enhanced root elongation and method for production thereof
An object of the present invention is mainly to provide, using a genetically engineering technique, a plant with enhanced root elongation; a plant immune to suppression in root elongation ability even under hyperosmotic stress; and a method for enhancing plant root elongation. The subject invention produces a transgenic plant in which a Ran protein derived from a wild watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is expressed, using a genetically engineering technique. |
| US07956233B2 |
Support system for the treatment and prevention of diseases of the veins
The present invention relates to a support system particularly intended for treatment and prevention of diseases of venous origin, characterized in that it comprises a first support layer, which is composed of an elastic band attached across its entire surface to an absorbent layer, and a second support layer, which is a self-adhesive elastic band. This support system has a dynamic coefficient of elasticity of between 5 and 55 Newton/cm. |
| US07956232B2 |
Reactive nanoparticles as destructive adsorbents for biological and chemical contamination
Compositions and methods for destroying biological agents such as toxins and bacteria are provided wherein the substance to be destroyed is contacted with finely divided metal oxide or hydroxide nanocrystals. In various embodiments, the metal oxide or metal hydroxide nanocrystals have reactive atoms stabilized on their surfaces, species adsorbed on their surfaces, or are coated with a second metal oxide. The desired metal oxide or metal hydroxide nanocrystals can be pressed into pellets for use when a powder is not feasible. Preferred metal oxides for the methods include MgO, SrO, BaO, CaO, TiO2, ZrO2, FeO, V2O3, V2O5, Mn2O3, Fe2O3, NiO, CuO, Al2O3, SiO2, ZnO, Ag2O, [Ce(NO3)3—Cu(NO3)2]TiO2, Mg(OH)2, Ca(OH)2, Al(OH)3, Sr(OH)2, Ba(OH)2, Fe(OH)3, Cu(OH)3, Ni(OH)2, Co(OH)2, Zn(OH)2, AgOH, and mixtures thereof. |
| US07956231B2 |
Method for separation of olefins
To decrease capital costs of crack gas treatment of the olefin plant, a method for separation of olefins reduces the units for catalytic hydrogenation. In the method, olefins having three carbon atoms are separated from olefins having four carbon atoms. Crude gas is precompressed (1), precooled and dried (2), and passed into a C3/C4 separation stage (6) comprising a C4 absorber, operating at full crude gas pressure, and a depropanizer, operated at a pressure of 8 to 12 bar. In the C3/C4 separation stage, the olefins are separated into a fraction having at most three carbon atoms (C3−), and a fraction having at least four carbon atoms (C4+). The fraction having at most three carbon atoms is completely compressed (1) and passed to the catalytic hydrogenation (4); the fraction having at least four carbon atoms is passed out for further processing (7). The catalytic hydrogenation (4) yields a fraction having at least two carbon atoms (C2−), which is passed on to the low-temperature separation, and a fraction having three carbon atoms (C3), is passed to further processing (8). |
| US07956228B2 |
Method and device for producing acetylene and synthesis gas by rapidly mixing the reactants
A process for the preparation of acetylene and synthesis gas by partial thermal oxidation in a reactor which has a burner having passages, wherein the starting materials to be reacted are rapidly and completely mixed only immediately before the flame reaction zone in the passages of the burner, a mean flow rate which exceeds the flame propagation velocities under the given reaction conditions being established in the mixing zone within the passages. |
| US07956224B2 |
Palladium catalyzed hydrogenation of bio-oils and organic compounds
The invention provides palladium-catalyzed hydrogenations of bio-oils and certain organic compounds. Experimental results have shown unexpected and superior results for palladium-catalyzed hydrogenations of organic compounds typically found in bio-oils. |
| US07956223B2 |
Method for producing halogen-substituted benzenedimethanol
A method for producing a halogen-substituted benzenedimethanol represented by the formula (2): wherein X1, X2, X3 and X4 are the same or different and each independently represent a hydrogen atom or a halogen atom, provided that X1, X2, X3 and X4 are not hydrogen atoms at the same time, by reacting a halogen-substituted terephthalic acid represented by the formula (1): wherein X1, X2, X3 and X4 are the same meanings as defined above, with a borohydride compound in an organic solvent, followed by contacting the obtained reaction mixture with hydrogen chloride at 40 to 70° C. |
| US07956219B2 |
Amino acid analogues
In the present specification we describe a new class of compounds, designed to modulate the ability of blood vessels to synthesize NO from L-arginine. In particular we have identified novel compounds which enhance the entry of L-arginine into cells. These compounds improve endothelial function, and thereby have the potential to retard the progression of vascular disease in conditions such as hypertension, heart failure and diabetes. This new class of drugs may also have other potentially, relevant pharmacological actions, including anti-hypertensive and anti-anginal actions. |
| US07956215B2 |
Versatile oxidation byproduct purge process
Disclosed is a process and apparatus for treating a purge stream in a carboxylic acid production process. The process employs a purge process that allows for the separation of oxidation byproducts into benzoic acid and non-benzoic acid oxidation byproducts, thus providing flexibility in the treatment and use of such oxidation byproducts. |
| US07956213B2 |
Toluate esters for use as reactive and non-reactive diluent in polymer applications
Disclosed are toluate ester compositions and their use as solvent, plasticizers, extender and/or diluents in binder formulations, a method of producing such ester compositions, as well as polymer compositions containing such liquid ester compositions. Also disclosed is a method of making toluate based esters by reacting methyl-p-toluate with ethylene glycol, diethylene or triethylene glycol, butanediol, etc. |
| US07956212B2 |
Levodopa prodrugs, and compositions and uses thereof
Prodrugs of levodopa, methods of making prodrugs of levodopa, methods of using prodrugs of levodopa, and compositions of prodrugs of levodopa are disclosed. |
| US07956211B2 |
Trithiocarbonate derivatives and the use thereof in the form of transfer agents for acrylic acid controlled radical polymerisation
The invention relates to novel sulphur compounds, to the production thereof by a method carried out in an aqueous medium and the use thereof in the form of transfer agents in a method for controlled radical polymerization of acrylic acid and/or acrylic acid with water-soluble monomers in water. The thus obtained polymers are usable in the form of dispersing agents or grinding aid agents and/or aid agents for combined grinding of mineral materials in an aqueous suspension and in the form of dispersing agents directly incorporated into aqueous formulations containing mineral materials. |
| US07956208B2 |
Preparation of platinum (II) complexes
This invention relates a method for the preparation of platinum(II) oxalato complexes from their dihalogenoplatinum(II) precursors having either neutral monodentate or bidentate non-leaving co-ligands. Of particular interest is oxaliplatin. The method includes the step of reacting a halogenoplatinum(II) complex containing a neutral monodentate or bidentate ligand with an oxalate in a non-aqueous solvent or a mixed solvent system. The mixed solvent system is solvent mixture containing a non-aqueous solvent and water. According to the present invention, the non-aqueous solvent is an alcohol. |
| US07956206B2 |
Metal complex
A light emitting device comprising an anode, a cathode, a light emissive layer located between the anode and the cathode, said light emissive layer comprising a compound for emitting light, said compound comprising a metal complex and X, said metal complex containing a metal (M) and a phosphorous atom that is coordinated directly to M, and an aryl or heteroaryl group Ars that is directly bonded to the phosphorous atom, where Ars is substituted with X, and characterized in the X comprises an aryl or heteroaryl group. |
| US07956203B2 |
Oxidation of 5-(hydroxymethyl) furfural to 2,5-diformylfuran and subsequent decarbonylation to unsubstituted furan
Alcohols are catalytically oxidized to aldehydes, in particular to benzaldehyde and diformylfuran, which are useful as intermediates for a multiplicity of purposes. The invention also relates to the polymerization of the dialdehyde and to the decarbonylation of the dialdehyde to furan. |
| US07956202B2 |
Intermediate compounds for the preparation of trans-5-chloro-2-methyl-2,3,3A,12B-tetrahydro-1H-dibenz[2,3:6,7]-oxepino[4,5-C]pyrrole
Disclosed are novel amino acid derivatives of formula (I) and (II) processes for the preparation thereof, and their use in the preparation of trans-5-chloro-2-methyl-2,3,3a,12b-tetrahydro-1H-dibenz[2,3:6,7]oxepino-[4,5-c]pyrrole. |
| US07956200B2 |
Silver- and vanadium-containing multimetal oxide and its use
A multimetal oxide of the formula I Aga-bMbV2Ox*cH2O, I where M is a metal selected from the group consisting of Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs, Tl, Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba, Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb, Cr, Au, Al, Fe, Co, Ni and/or Mo, a is from 0.3 to 1.9 and b is from 0 to 0.5, with the proviso that the difference (a−b)≧0.1 and c is from 0 to 20 and x is a number determined by the valence and amount of elements different from oxygen in the formula I, which has a crystal structure giving an X-ray powder diffraction pattern which displays reflections at the lattice spacings d of 15.23±0.6, 12.16±0.4, 10.68±0.3, 3.41±0.04, 3.09±0.04, 3.02±0.04, 2.36±0.04 and 1.80±0.04 Å. Precatalysts and catalysts produced therefrom for the partial oxidation of aromatic hydrocarbons are also provided. |
| US07956196B2 |
1,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-2-ylidene amines as inhibitors of respiratory syncytial virus replication
Novel 1,3-dihydro-benzimidazol-2-ylidene amine derivatives of formula the addition salts and stereochemically isomeric forms wherein each Alk is C1-6alkanediyl; Q is hydrogen; C1-6alkyl substituted with one or two Ar2 radicals; C1-6alkyl substituted with quinolinyl, oxazolidinyl, thiazolidinyl, morpholinyl, thiomorpholinyl, or with pyrrolidinonyl; —CO—Ar2; or Q is a radical of formula wherein t is 1, 2 or 3; R4 is amino, mono-or di(C1-6alkyl)amino; R1 is Ar2, —CO—Ar2 or a monocyclic or bicyclic heterocycle which may optionally be substituted; R2 is as R1 and additionally can be hydrogen; where Q is other than hydrogen, R3 is hydrogen; and where Q is other than hydrogen, R3 is a radical: wherein R6 is hydrogen, C1-6alkyl, substituted C1-6alkyl; R7, R8, R9 are halo, cyano, C1-6alkyl, substituted C1-6alkyl, C2-6alkenyl, cyanoC2-6alkenyl, C2-6alkynyl, cyanoC2 6alkynyl, Ar1, R10a—0—, R10a—S—, —N(R5aR5b), R10a—O—C(═O)—, N(R5aR5b)—C(═O)—, R10a—C(═O)—NR5b—, R10b—C(═O)—O—; and R8 and/or R9 may also be hydrogen; which are RSV inhibitors. Compositions containing these compounds and processes for preparing these compounds and compositions. |
| US07956195B2 |
Process for the preparation and isolation of the individual stereoisomers of 1-amino, 3-substituted phenylcyclopentane-carboxylates
The present invention discloses processes for the preparation and isolation of the individual stereoisomers of 1-amino, 3-substituted phenylcyclopentane-carboxylates. |
| US07956194B2 |
Microbiocidal (E.G. fungicidal) 1,2,3-triazole derivatives
A compound of formula (I): where A is an ortho-substituted ring selected from a number of specified rings; R1 is halogen, cyano, nitro, C1-4 alkyl, C1-4 haloalkyl, C1-4 alkoxy or C1-4 haloalkoxy or optionally substituted C2-4 alkenyl, optionally substituted C2-4 alkynyl or optionally substituted SO2(C1-4)alkyl (where the optionally substituted moieties may each have up to 3 substituents, each independently selected from halogen and C1-4 alkoxy); R2 is C1-4 alkyl, C1-4 haloalkyl, C1-4 alkoxy(C1-4)alkyl or C1-4 alkylthio(C1-4)alkyl or [optionally substituted aryl](C1-4)alkyl- or [optionally substituted aryl]oxy(C1-4)alkyl-(where the optionally substituted aryl moieties may each have up to 3 substituents, each independently selected from halogen and C1-4 alkoxy); R3 is hydrogen, CH2C≡CR4, CH2CR4═C(H)R4, CH═C═CH2 or COR5 or optionally substituted C1-4 alkyl, optionally substituted C1-4 alkoxy or optionally substituted (C1-4) alkylC(═O)O (where the optionally substituted moieties may each have up to 3 substituents, each independently selected from halogen and C1-4 alkoxy, C1-4 alkyl, C1-2 haloalkoxy, hydroxy, cyano, carboxyl, methoxycarbonyl, ethoxycarbonyl, methylsulfonyl and ethylsulfonyl); each R4 is, independently, hydrogen, halogen, C1-4 alkyl, C1-4 haloalkyl, C1-4 alkoxy or C1-4 alkoxy(C1-4)alkyl; and R5 is hydrogen or optionally substituted C1-6 alkyl, optionally substituted C1-4 alkoxy, optionally substituted C1-4 alkoxy(C1-4)alkyl, optionally substituted C1-4 alkylthio(C1-4)alkyl or optionally substituted aryl (where the optionally substituted moieties may each have up to 3 substituents, each independently selected from halogen, C1-6 alkoxy, C1-6 haloalkoxy, cyano, hydroxy, methoxycarbonyl and ethoxycarbonyl). |
| US07956192B2 |
Carbene containing metal complexes as OLEDs
A process for preparing a compound having the formula L2IrL′ is provided. The process comprises:combining and L′ in the presence of an organic solvent to form a mixture, wherein L is a suitable carbene ligand precursor coordinated to Ir; and L′ is a bidentate ligand or two monodentate ligands, and L is different from L′; Also provided is a process for preparing a compound having the formula The process comprises: (a) combining L, a carbene ligand precursor, with an organic solvent; (b) maintaining the mixture of step (a) at a temperature from about 175° C. to less than the boiling point of the organic solvent in (a). A process for preparing a compound with the formula L3Ir is also provided. This process comprises combining and L in the presence of alcohol and a base to form a mixture, wherein L is a bidentate ligand that may form a five-membered chelate ring. |
| US07956190B2 |
Benzimidazole amido derivatives as kinase inhibitors
Objects of the present invention are the compounds of formula (I) their pharmaceutically acceptable salts, enantiomeric forms, diastereoisomers and racemates, the preparation of the above-mentioned compounds, medicaments containing them and their manufacture, as well as the use of the above-mentioned compounds in the control or prevention of illnesses such as cancer. |
| US07956188B2 |
Acetamide compounds as fungicides
Compounds of the general formula (I); wherein the substituents are as defined in claim 1, are useful as fungicides. |
| US07956187B2 |
Method for decreasing opioid metabolism
8-Substituted-2,6-methano-3-benzazocines of general structure I in which A is —CH2OH, —CH2NH2, —NHSO2CH3, Q is O or S and Y is O, S or NOH are useful as analgesics, anti-diarrheal agents, anticonvulsants, antitussives and anti-addiction medications. |
| US07956185B2 |
Cyclobut-3-ene-1,2,-dione inhibitors of polo-like kinases
Compounds of formula (I) where X1, C1, and D1 are defined herein, are inhibitors of polo-like kinases. The compounds of formula (I) are useful for treatment of diseases of cellular proliferation, such as, for example, cancer. |
| US07956183B2 |
Methods of synthesis and/or purification of diaminophenothiazinium compounds
A method for the synthesis of a diaminophenothiazinium compound of the following formula: comprising (a) purifying a corresponding reduced compound which is N-acylated at the heterocyclic nitrogen; (b) deacylating the purified compound to provide the corresponding reduced compound; and (c) oxidizing the reduced compound to provide the diaminophenothiazinium compound. Optional purification may performed, for example, after deacylating and after oxidizing. The method provides high purity diaminophenothiazinium compounds which are suitable for pharmaceutical and related therapeutic uses. Such uses include inactivating pathogens, the treatment of the infectious diseases, and for the treatment of diseases of protein aggregation, such as tauopathies, including Alzheimer's disease. |
| US07956175B2 |
Compositions for use in identification of bacteria
The present invention provides compositions, kits and methods for rapid identification and quantification of bacteria by molecular mass and base composition analysis. |
| US07956174B2 |
Constitutive promoters from poplar and uses thereof
The present invention relates to nucleic acid molecules corresponding to regulatory portions of genes whose expression is constitutive. The invention also relates to compositions and methods of using the same to regulate the expression, in a constitutive manner, of genes and/or any kind of nucleotide sequences in a plant. Nucleic acid molecules and its compositions include novel nucleotide sequences for constitutive promoter identified in and isolated from poplar (Populus spp). Methods for expressing genes and/or any kind of nucleotide sequences in a plant using the promoter sequences disclosed herein are provided. The methods comprise stably incorporating into the genome of a plant cell a nucleotide sequence operably linked to one or more of the constitutive promoters of the present invention and regenerating a stably transformed plant that expresses the nucleotide sequence. |
| US07956173B2 |
Nucleic acids coding for humanized antibodies for binding sphingosine-1-phosphate
The present invention relates to anti-S1P agents, particularly humanized monoclonal antibodies (and antigen binding fragments thereof) specifically reactive with S1P, compositions containing such antibodies (or fragments), and the use of such antibodies (or fragments), for example, to treat diseases and conditions associated with aberrant levels of S1P. |
| US07956172B2 |
Fluorescent protein and chromoprotein
It is an object of the present invention to provide a novel fluorescent protein and a novel chromoprotein. The present invention provides a novel fluorescent protein derived from Montipora sp., Acropora sp. and Lobophytum crassum, and a novel chromoprotein derived from Actinia equine. |
| US07956169B1 |
Synthesis of novel azo-dyes and their use in oligonucleotide synthesis
The invention provides a novel group of azo quencher compositions that are useful as quenchers of fluorescence and to methods for making and using them. The quenchers contain an azo bond and 1,3,3-trimethyl-2-methyleneindoline ring system. The quenchers can be derivatized to facilitate their conjugation to a variety of biologically relevant compounds, including lipids, nucleic acids, peptides, proteins, and the like. |
| US07956166B2 |
Fractionation of protein containing mixtures
Thus, a primary aspect of the present invention relates to a method for the fractionation of a protein-containing mixture wherein the protein-containing mixture is selected from the group consisting of milk, milk derived products, milk derived raw materials, vegetable derived products, vegetable derived extracts, fruit derived products, fruit derived extracts, fish derived products, and fish derived extracts, said method comprising the steps of: a) optionally adjusting the pH of the mixture; b) applying said mixture to an adsorption column comprising an adsorbent, said adsorbent comprises a particle with at least one high density non-porous core, surrounded by a porous material, the adsorbent having a particle density of at least 1.5 g/ml and a mean particle size of at most 150 μm; c) optionally washing the column; d) eluting at least one protein from the adsorbent. |
| US07956160B2 |
Concentrated protein lyophilates, methods, and uses
The invention provides, among other things, lyophilized compositions of high surface area that comprise a protein and that reconstitute quickly and efficiently to solution of high protein concentration with minimal formation, if any, of foam, effervescence, bubbles, turbidity, or particulates that might be deleterious. The invention also provides, among other things, methods for making the lyophilized compositions. The invention in additional aspects also provides Raman Imaging Spectrographic methods for real time analyses of polymorphs in a sample using PLS algorithms. By way of particular example, the use of the method for the analysis of mannitol polymorphs is described, and the use of the analysis to determine optimum compositions and lyophilization methods for producing lyophilates of pharmaceutical proteins having a predefined distribution of mannitol polymorphs and having the aforementioned reconstitution properties is also described. |
| US07956157B2 |
Processes using dividing wall distillation column
A method for the separation of hydrocarbon compounds utilizing a dividing wall distillation column is described. The dividing wall distillation column enables one or more side draw stream to be removed from the dividing wall distillation column in addition to an overhead stream and a bottoms stream. |
| US07956155B2 |
Nanoporous crystalline form of syndiotactic polystyrene, processes for its preparation and related molecular-complex crystalline forms
The present invention relates to a process for preparing a new nanoporous crystalline form of syndiotactic polystyrene, to the thus obtained crystalline form, to molecular-complex crystalline phases obtained by exposition of such crystalline form to low-molecular-mass molecules, and to the related processes for their preparation. |
| US07956154B2 |
Polymers incorporating 1,3 and 1,4 cyclohexanedimethanol
A polymer containing a polyester polymer unit having the formula -(I-III-II)-, wherein III is derived form a di-carboxylic acid, wherein I is derived from 1,3 cyclohexanedimethanol, wherein II is derived from 1,4 cyclohexanedimethanol and wherein the polymer is a solid at room temperature. |
| US07956152B2 |
Star silicone polymers
The present invention is directed to a multifunctional organo-silicone compound and the use of the that compound in personal care and other applications. These compounds by virtue of their unique structure provide outstanding micro emulsions and provide outstanding skin feel. |
| US07956150B2 |
Amide-substituted silicones and methods for their preparation and use
A composition includes: (A) an amide-substituted silicone and (B) a thermally conductive filler. The composition may be used as a thermal interface material for dissipating heat from electronic devices. |
| US07956148B2 |
Process for the preparation of polypropylene
The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of polypropylene using a catalyst system of low porosity, the catalyst system comprising an asymmetric catalyst, wherein the catalyst system has a porosity of less than 1.40 ml/g. |
| US07956146B2 |
Tire with tread of polybutadiene rubber
Pneumatic rubber tire with an outer, circumferential tread comprised of specialized cis 1,4-polybutadiene rubber based silica/carbon black reinforced rubber composition. |
| US07956145B2 |
Diene polymer and process for producing the same
A polymer containing units represented by the defined formula (1); and a process for producing the polymer, which comprises the step of polymerizing a compound represented by the defined formula (3), the units represented by the formula (1) being polymerized units of the compound represented by the formula (3) such as 9,9-diallylfluorene. |
| US07956140B2 |
Polymerization catalyst comprising amidine ligand
The invention relates to a process for the preparation of a polymer comprising at least one aliphatic or aromatic hydrocarbyl C2-20 olefin in the presence of an ionic catalyst, comprising an organometallic compound and an activator, and optionally a scavenger. |
| US07956138B2 |
Catalyst system for olefin polymerization and polymers produced therefrom
This invention relates to a catalyst system comprising: an activator, such as an aluminum alkyl, alumoxane or combinations thereof; a first catalyst precursor prepared by contacting compound (I) represented by the formula: with an optionally substituted alkyl or optionally substituted aryl alcohol; wherein Z—O is a support material, where O is oxygen and Z is Si, Ti, Al, Sn, Fe, Ga, Zr, B, Mg or Cr; each X is, independently, nitrogen, oxygen phosphorous, or sulfur, provided that both X's are not each oxygen; each n is, independently, 1 or 2, provided the total of n=3; each R is, independently, an alkyl group, a substituted alkyl group, an aryl group, or a substituted aryl group, provided at least one R group is an aryl or substituted aryl group; and a second catalyst precursor, wherein the second catalyst precursor is a metallocene compound. This invention also relates to the use of the above catalyst system to polymerize olefins and other monomers. |
| US07956137B2 |
Loop reactor for emulsion polymerisation
A polymerisation reactor comprising one or more circulation loops with one or more inlets for raw material, one or more outlets, and a circulation pump for circulating a reactor charge within the circulation loop. A by-pass line for by-passing the circulation pump connects a point of the loop upstream of the pump with a point downstream of the pump, both points being provided with a three way valve. |
| US07956131B2 |
Lactam polymer derivatives
Lactam polymers has been modified with sodium borohydride (NaBH4) to yield lactam polymers bearing hydroxyl functional groups. These functional groups are useful for the covalent attachment of reactive groups, fluorescent probes, antimicrobial agents, bioactive factors, and drugs. The resulting as components for medical devices, specifically ophthalmic devices and more specifically contact lenses. Hydrogels based on these polymers are also useful for biomedical applications in the areas of drug delivery, tissue engineering, and implantable devices. |
| US07956129B2 |
Polymer blends
Novel polymer blends comprise (a) 1-99% by weight of a copolymer of ethylene and an alpha olefin having from 3 to 10 carbon atoms, said copolymer having (iv) a density in the range 0.905 to 0.940 g cm−3, (v) a melt elastic modulus G′ (G″=500 Pa) in the range 10 to 150 Pa, and (vi) a melt index in the range 5 to 50, and (b) from 1-99% by weight of a low density polyethylene (LDPE) polymer having a density from 0.914 to 0.928 g cm−3 wherein the sum of (a) and (b) is 100%. The copolymers of component (a) are typically prepared by use of metallocene catalysts. The blends exhibit advantageous melt elastic modulus in the range 30 to 200 Pa. The blends are particularly suitable for extrusion coating applications. |
| US07956123B2 |
Solvent resistant polyurethane adhesive compositions
A solvent resistant adhesive obtained by the crosslinking of a hydroxyl or urea or hydrocarbon terminated unsaturated polyurethane or polyurethane-urea polymer with a peroxide or a silicone hydride. The adhesive is useful as a component in pressure sensitive adhesives. |
| US07956120B2 |
Aqueous fluoropolymer dispersion stabilized with amine oxide surfactant and process for making coagulated fluoropolymer resin
An aqueous fluoropolymer dispersion comprising an aqueous medium, fluoropolymer particles, and an amine oxide surfactant. Coagulated fluoropolymer resin is produced from the dispersion by adding an acidic reagent in sufficient amount to cause coagulation and separation of the coagulated fluoropolymer resin from the aqueous medium. Another particulate component such as particular polymer, filler, pigment, solid lubricant, etc., may be added to the dispersion and co-coagulated to form a mixture of coagulated fluoropolymer resin and particulate component. |
| US07956115B2 |
Phenyl acrylate
The present invention is to provide a light-controlling film giving an excellent haze, and a compound and a composition which enable to produce the film. The invention provides phenyl acrylate represented by the formula (I); a composition comprising the phenyl acrylate and at least two kinds of compounds having a polymerizable carbon-carbon bond in a molecule; and a film obtained by photo-curing the above-mentioned composition. (wherein R represents a methyl group or a hydrogen atom.) |
| US07956112B2 |
Aqueous fluoropolymer dispersion stabilized with amine oxide surfactant and process for making coagulated fluoropolymer resin
An aqueous fluoropolymer dispersion comprising an aqueous medium, fluoropolymer particles, and an amine oxide surfactant. Coagulated fluoropolymer resin is produced from the dispersion by adding an acidic reagent in sufficient amount to cause coagulation and separation of the coagulated fluoropolymer resin from the aqueous medium. Another particulate component such as particular polymer, filler, pigment, solid lubricant, etc., may be added to the dispersion and co-coagulated to form a mixture of coagulated fluoropolymer resin and particulate component. |
| US07956111B2 |
Non-halogen flameproof polycarbonate resin composition
A non-halogen flameproof polycarbonate resin composition of the present invention comprises about 100 parts by weight of a polycarbonate resin; and about 0.5 to about 10 parts by weight a phosphorus compound represented by the following Chemical Formula (1) or a combination thereof. The present invention can provide an environmentally friendly polycarbonate resin composition which can have excellent retardancy without releasing hydrogen halide gases during preparation or combustion. wherein R1 and R2 are each independently C1 to C6 alkyl and n is 1 or 2. |
| US07956108B2 |
Product
Composite materials comprise nanotubes and a polymer. The nanotubes and polymer interact in an ordered fashion at an interfacial region. The interface is crystalline or semi crystalline. |
| US07956104B2 |
Centerport inhibitor for a solid propellant rocket motor, a solid propellant rocket motor including same, and a method of inhibiting a centerport of a solid propellant rocket motor
A pourable opaque centerport for solid propellant rocket motors and method for applying the same are disclosed. The pourable centerport inhibitor for solid propellant rocket motors has a curing system that includes a prepolymer and a curing agent. The prepolymer and the curing agent are combined to form a pourable polymeric binder that cures into an amorphous solid. The pourable centerport inhibitor also includes an opaque agent. The pourable centerport inhibitor may also include a plasticizer. The plasticizer, the prepolymer, and the curing agent are preferably the same type that is in the solid propellant with which it will be used in conjunction. |
| US07956103B2 |
Ink composition and metallic material
To provide an ink composition capable of forming a metallic material which is excellent in adhesion to a substrate and free from ion migration. An ink composition having fine metallic copper particles and/or fine copper hydride particles, and fine silver oxide particles or fine metallic silver particles, dispersed in a water-insoluble organic liquid, which composition has a solid content concentration of from 10 to 80 mass % and contains from 5 to 90 parts by mass of the fine metallic copper particles and/or fine copper hydride particles, and from 10 to 95 parts by mass of the fine silver oxide particles or fine metallic silver particles, per 100 parts by mass of the total solid content in the ink composition. |
| US07956100B2 |
Implantable medical devices fabricated from block copolymers
Medical devices, such as stents, fabricated at least in part from a polymer composite including a biodegradable elastomeric phase dispersed within a biodegradable polymeric matrix are disclosed. The composite is composed of a block copolymer including an elastomeric homopolymer block and a glassy polymer block. |
| US07956099B2 |
Modification process for polymer surfaces, notably for hydroxylation of polymer surfaces and products so obtained
Described is the use of RO• radicals, R being a hydrogen, an alkyl group having 2 to 15 carbons, an acyl group —COR′ in which R′ represents an alkyl group having 2 to 15 carbons, or an aroyl group —COAr in which Ar represents an aromatic group having 6 to 15 carbons, for the hydroxylation, alkoxylation or oxycarbonylation of polymer or polymer mixture surfaces, the said polymers consisting in monomeric units of which at least 50% among these are aromatic units and the said RO• radicals being generated by electrochemical or photochemical methods. |
| US07956097B2 |
Curable thermally ejectable printing fluid
Various embodiments related to curable printing fluids are disclosed. One example embodiment provides a curable printing fluid composition for a thermal fluid ejection device, the composition comprising a curable liquid-phase monomer, a substantially nonaqueous volatile driver fluid capable of being vaporized by a thermal fluid ejection printhead, an initiator, a phosphate ester resistor protectant, and a colorant comprising a dye. |
| US07956096B2 |
Microspheres
The invention relates to thermally expandable thermoplastic microspheres comprising a polymer shell made from ethylenically unsaturated monomers encapsulating a propellant, said ethylenically unsaturated monomers comprising from 40 to 70 wt % of acrylonitrile, from 5 to 40 wt % of methacrylonitrile, from 10 to 50 wt % of monomers selected from the group consisting of esters of acrylic acid, esters of methacrylic acid and mixtures thereof, and said propellant comprising at least one of methane, ethane, propane, isobutane, n-butane and neo-pentane. The invention further relates to the production and use of the microspheres. |
| US07956095B2 |
Extrusion of a thermoplastic polymer bearing acid ionic groupings
The invention relates to a process for the extrusion of thermoplastic polymers having acid ionic groups.The process consists in preparing a mixture composed of a thermoplastic polymer having acid ionic groups and a plasticizer, in extruding the mixture obtained to form a film, then in washing the film obtained in aqueous medium to remove said plasticizer(s). The plasticizer is chosen from non-volatile compounds which are stable with respect to the ionic groups of the polymer, which are soluble in water or in solvents that are miscible with water, said plasticizers being chosen from the compounds that react with the ionic group of the polymer via formation of a weak bond of the hydrogen bond-type, and the compounds that react with the ionic group of the polymer via formation of a strong bond, of the ionic bond-type. |
| US07956094B2 |
Self-sterilized, antiseptic collagen preparations, their use and methods for producing them
A method is provided for sterilizing a collagen preparation and for production of self-sterilized, antiseptic collagen preparations. The preparations may be used for producing collagen products, such as sponges, films or gels, especially for medical and/or cosmetic purposes. |
| US07956091B2 |
Use of carnitines for the prevention and/or treatment of disorders caused by the andropause
The use of propionyl L-carnitine in combination with acetyl L-carnitine, or one of their pharmaceutically acceptable salts, is disclosed for the preparation of a medicament, or of a nutritional supplement, for the prevention and/or treatment of the disorders of the male andropause caused by ageing or by chemical or surgical castration. |
| US07956087B2 |
Cosmetic composition for skin and wrinkle improver
The present invention is to provide skin cosmetics and anti-wrinkle agents which are excellent in reducing effect on wrinkle caused by photoaging.Skin cosmetics and anti-wrinkle agents which comprise a sugar alcohol derivative represented by the following formula (1): (wherein n is 1 to 5, preferably n=2.). |
| US07956084B2 |
Phenyl thiophene carboxamide compounds as inhibitors of the enzyme IKK-2
The invention relates to thiophene carboxamides of formula (I), wherein A, R1, R2, R3, n and X are as defined in the specification, processes and intermediates used in their preparation, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use in therapy. |
| US07956083B2 |
Compounds
The present invention relates to novel indole derivatives having pharmacological activity, processes for their preparation, compositions containing them and the use of these compounds in the treatment of estrogen receptor beta mediated diseases. |
| US07956077B2 |
2-{-3,′2-(phenyl)-oxazol-4-ylmethoxyl-cyclohexyl methoxy}-propionic acid derivatives used as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) ligands for the treatment of hyperlipidemia and diabetes
The present invention comprises compounds and compositions for the treatment of metabolic disorders and more particularly, those insulin-related metabolic disorders of the blood such as hyperlipidemia, diabetes, insulin-resistence and the like comprising acetic acid derivatives with cyclohexylmethoxy substituents and their salts. Known as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR) agonists/antagonists, the invention relates to compounds of formula I wherein the various substituent R-groups are more specifically defined herein. |
| US07956075B2 |
Derivatives of heterocycles with 5 members, their preparation and their use as medicaments
The invention relates to thiazole, oxazole, imidazole, isoxazole and isoxazoline derivatives of general formula (I) wherein Het is thiazole, oxazole, imidazole, isoxazole or isoxazoline, n is an integer from 0 to 6, A is notably selected from various optionally substituted aromatic radicals, B is notably hydrogen, alkyl or phenyl, R1 and R2 are notably independently hydrogen, alkyl or cycloalkyl and Ω is —NR46R47 or —OR48, R46 and R47 are notably independently hydrogen, alkyl, cycloalkyl or —(CH2)k—COOR51, R51 is notably alkyl or haloalkyl and R48 is notably hydrogen or alkyl. These compounds have advantageous pharmacological properties which allow their use in therapeutics, notably for treating neurodegenerative disorders or pain. |
| US07956071B2 |
Imidazole compounds
Imidazole compounds, compositions, and methods of using them in leukocyte recruitment inhibition, in modulating H4 receptor expression, and in treating conditions such as inflammation, H4 receptor-mediated conditions, and related conditions. |
| US07956064B2 |
Fused tricyclic compounds as serine-threonine protein kinase and PARP modulators
The invention relates in part to fused tricyclic compounds having certain biological activities that include, but are not limited to, inhibiting cell proliferation, modulating protein kinase activity and modulating polymerase activity. The fused tricyclic compounds of the invention can modulate casein kinase (CK) activity and/or poly(ADP-ribose)polymerase (PARP) activity. The invention also relates in part to methods for using such fused tricyclic compounds. |
| US07956058B2 |
Dehydrophenylahistins and analogs thereof and the synthesis of dehydrophenylahistins and analogs thereof
Compounds represented by the following structure (I) are disclosed: as are methods for making such compounds, wherein said methods comprise reacting a diacyldiketopiperazine with a first aldehyde to produce an intermediate compound; and reacting the intermediate compound with a second aldehyde to produce the class of compounds with the generic structure, where the first aldehyde and the second aldehydes are selected from the group consisting of an oxazolecarboxaldeyhyde, imidazolecarboxaldehyde, a benzaldehyde, imidazolecarboxaldehyde derivatives, and benzaldehyde derivatives, thereby forming the above compound wherein R1, R1′, R1′, R2, R3, R4, R5, and R6, X1 and X2, Y, Z, Z1, Z2, Z3, and Z4 may each be separately defined in a manner consistent with the accompanying description. Compositions and methods for treating cancer and fungal infection are also disclosed. |
| US07956057B2 |
Imidazole compounds
Imidazole compounds, compositions, and methods of using them in leukocyte recruitment inhibition, in modulating H4 receptor expression, and in treating conditions such as inflammation, H4 receptor-mediated conditions, and related conditions. |
| US07956053B2 |
Inhibitors of tyrosine kinases
The invention relates to compounds of formula wherein the substituents R1, R2 and R4 have the meaning as set forth and explained in the description of the invention, to processes for the preparation of these compounds, pharmaceutical compositions containing same, the use thereof optionally in combination with one or more other pharmaceutically active compounds for the therapy of a disease which responds to an inhibition of protein kinase activity, especially a neoplastic disease, in particular leukaemia, and a method for the treatment of such a disease. |
| US07956052B2 |
Modulators of ATP-binding cassette transporters
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. |
| US07956051B2 |
Therapeutic amides and related compounds
Disclosed herein are compounds useful in treating glaucoma, inflammatory bowel disease, the stimulation of hair growth, and the stimulation of the conversion of vellus hair to terminal hair. The compounds themselves are herein. |
| US07956050B2 |
Aryl- and heteroaryl-substituted tetrahydrobenzazepines and use thereof to block reuptake of norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin
The compounds of the present invention are represented by the following aryl- and heteroaryl-substituted tetrahydrobenzazepine and dihydrobenzazapine derivatives having formulae I(A-E) and formula (II): where the carbon atom designated * is in the R or S configuration, and the substituents X and R1-R9 are as defined herein. |
| US07956048B2 |
Polymorphs of eltrombopag and eltrombopag salts and processes for preparation thereof
New polymorphs of Eltrombopag and Eltrombopag ethanolamine salt have been obtained and characterized. These polymorphs and pharmaceutical compositions comprising them are useful, for example, in treating conditions leading to thrombocytopenia. |
| US07956046B2 |
Oligosaccharide mixtures derived from heparin, preparation thereof and pharmaceutical compositions containing them
Oligosaccharide mixtures comprising anti-Xa activities of from 190 IU/mg to 450 IU/mg and anti-IIa activities of less than 0.2 IU/mg; and having constituent oligosaccharides with an average molecular weight of from 1800 to 2400 Daltons, constituent oligosaccharides comprise from 2 to 16 saccharide units, a 4,5-unsaturated uronic acid 2-O-sulfate unit at one end, and comprising at least one ΔIIa-IIs-Is hexasaccharide sequence are described. Processes for preparing the oligosaccharide mixtures, pharmaceutical compositions and articles of manufacture comprising the oligosaccharide mixtures are described. Methods of treatment and prevention comprising administering the oligosaccharide mixtures are described. |
| US07956042B2 |
Crystalline forms of macrolide compounds endowed with antiinflammatory activity
The present invention relates to macrolide compounds endowed with antiinflammatory activity and more particularly relates to new stable crystalline forms of a macrolide derivative with antiinflammatory activity, processes for the preparation of such forms, pharmaceutical compositions containing them as active ingredient and the use of said crystalline forms for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. |
| US07956039B2 |
Use of amygdalin analogues for the treatment of psoriasis
The compounds of formula (I), wherein n is an integer from 0 to 4; R1 is a radical selected from the group consisting of H, CH3, CH2-CH3, C(CH3)3, COOH, CONH2 and C≡CH; R2, R3, R4 and R5 are radicals independently selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br, (C1-C3)-alkoxyl and (C1-C4)-alkyl; and R6 is a radical selected from the group consisting of H, F, Cl, Br, (C1-C3)-alkoxyl, (C1-C4)-alkyl, R7, CH═CH—R7 and O—CH2—R7; wherein R7 is phenyl or phenyl mono- or independently di-substituted with F, Cl, Br, (C1-C3)-alkoxyl or (C1-C4)-alkyl, exhibit a similar chemotactic index to that of amygdalin (natural product whose chemotaxis profile is similar to that of peptide T) and, consequently, are useful for treating inflammatory and/or allergic dermatophathies, such as psoriasis, and are especially much less toxic than amygdalin. |
| US07956036B2 |
Polypeptide and DNA thereof useful as a neovascular marker
A marker for neovascularization, vascular disease, inflammatory disease, entoptic neovascular disease, reproductive system disease, central nervous system disease and cancer, the method of detection of the marker and a diagnosis kit of the diseases are provided. Additionally, therapeutic agents of the diseases are provided.The expression of KIAA1036 is enhanced in ovarian cancer and large bowel cancer and KIAA1036 expresses in umbilical vein endothelial cell and inhibits DNA synthesis in the cells, cell migrating and lumen formation. Therefore KIAA1036 is useful as a marker for neovascularization, vascular disease, inflammatory disease, entoptic neovascular disease, reproductive system disease, central nervous system disease or cancer. Additionally, KIAA1036 is useful for screening of agonists, antagonists, DNA synthesis inhibitors, cell migrating inhibitors and neovascular inhibitors. The substances obtained by the screening, KIAA1036 and the antibodies are useful as therapeutic agents the above disease. |
| US07956032B2 |
Glycopegylated granulocyte colony stimulating factor
The present invention provides conjugates between Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor and PEG moieties. The conjugates are linked via an intact glycosyl linking group that is interposed between and covalently attached to the peptide and the modifying group. The conjugates are formed from both glycosylated and unglycosylated peptides by the action of a glycosyltransferase. The glycosyltransferase ligates a modified sugar moiety onto either an amino acid or glycosyl residue on the peptide. Also provided are pharmaceutical formulations including the conjugates. Methods for preparing the conjugates are also within the scope of the invention. |
| US07956030B2 |
Method for reducing pain with ziconotide and baclofen
The present invention is direct to a method of producing analgesia in a mammalian subject. The method includes administering to the subject an omega conopeptide, preferably ziconotide, in combination with an analgesic selected from the group consisting of morphine, bupivacaine, clonidine, hydromorphone, baclofen, fentanyil, buprenorphine, and sufentanil, or its pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein the ω-conopeptide retains its potency and is physically and chemically compatible with the analgesic compound. A preferred route of administration is intrathecal administration, particularly continuous intrathecal infusion. The present invention is also directed to a pharmaceutical formulation comprising an omega conopeptide, preferably ziconotide, an antioxidant, in combination with an analgesic selected from the group consisting of morphine, bupivacaine, clonidine, hydromorphone, baclofen, fentanyl, buprenorphine, and sufentanil. |
| US07956028B2 |
Protein stabilization formulations
The present invention is directed to stabilizing Bone Morphogenetic Protein in various lyophilized formulations and compositions. The present invention comprises formulations primarily including trehalose as an excipient for lyophilized compositions and their subsequent storage and reconstitution, and can also optionally include other excipients, including buffers and surfactants. |
| US07956027B2 |
Coated sodium percarbonate particles
Sodium percarbonate particles with a coating layer comprising sodium sulfate in the form of a high-temperature phase of sodium sulfate and/or of a high-temperature phase of a double salt of composition Na4(SO4)1+n(CO3)1−n where n is from 0 to 0.5 have an improved storage stability in detergent and cleaning composition formulations as compared with sodium percarbonate particles which comprise sodium sulfate in the coating layer only in the form of sodium sulfate (V) or burkeite. |
| US07956026B2 |
Cleaning agent
The present invention herein provide a cleaning agent which comprises (A) an aqueous solution or an aqueous dispersion containing a linear poly(meth)acrylamide having an average molecular weight of not less than 5×106 as determined according to the intrinsic viscosity-determining technique in a concentration ranging from 0.0001 to 0.01% by mass; (B) a poly(hexamethylene-biguanide) hydrochloride represented by the following general formula (1); and (C) at least one compound selected from the group consisting of propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, tripropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and ethers of ethylene glycol and propylene glycol with alcohols each having 1 to 3 carbon atoms, and esters thereof with fatty acids each having 1 to 3 carbon atoms, glycine and taurine: [—(CH2)m—NH—C(NH)—NH—C(NH)—NH—(CH2)n—]p.HCl General Formula (1) wherein m and n each represent an integer ranging from 2 to 5 and p is an integer ranging from 5 to 16. |
| US07956025B2 |
Finished fibers and textiles
Fibers and fabrics having microcapsules containing active components adhered to the fibers and textiles by a binder material are provided. The fibers and textiles are produced by applying to the fiber and textiles a dispersion containing the microcapsules and the binder. |
| US07956024B2 |
Cleaning compositions for removing organic deposits in hard to reach surfaces
A cleaning composition for removing organic deposits from hard to reach surfaces. In its basic embodiment, the cleaning composition comprises: a) a water miscible solvent; b) an inorganic salt; and c) water. The amount of the inorganic salt is at least 20% of the total composition by weight, with at least some of the salt existing in crystalline form at 20° C. |
| US07956019B2 |
Lubricant for a hot plastic working
To provide a lubricant for hot plastic working which is excellent in lubricating properties, feedability and operability and will produce no adverse affects on the corrosion resistance of the products.A lubricant for hot plastic working which is characterized in that the composition is comprised of, in an anhydrous condition, 50 to 80% by mass of iron oxide, 20 to 50% by mass of sodium silicate and 1 to 20% by mass of calcium oxide and that the total content of the impurities of zinc oxide, lead oxide and copper oxide is not higher than 5% by mass, where the content of the stabilizer is not counted. This lubricant is suited for use in lubricating guide shoes in piercing-rolling of high-Cr steel species. |
| US07956018B2 |
Lubricant composition
A lubricant composition includes a base oil having a consecutive number of carbon atoms and a viscosity index greater than a Viscosity Index Factor calculated by the following equation: 28×Ln(Kinematic Viscosity at 100° C.)+95. The lubricant composition also includes greater than 15 weight % detergent inhibitor (DI) additive package. The lubricant composition has a dynamic viscosity at −35° C. of less than 6200 mPa·s, a Mini-Rotary Viscosity (MRV) at −40° C. of less than 60,000 mPa·s, and a Cold Cranking Simulator (CCS) Viscosity at −35° C. of less than 6200 mPa·s. |
| US07956006B2 |
Process for preparing zinc oxide-based sorbents
The disclosure relates to zinc oxide-based sorbents, and processes for preparing and using them. The sorbents are preferably used to remove one or more reduced sulfur species from gas streams. The sorbents comprise an active zinc component, optionally in combination with one or more promoter components and/or one or more substantially inert components. The active zinc component is a two phase material, consisting essentially of a zinc oxide (ZnO) phase and a zinc aluminate (ZnAl2O4) phase. Each of the two phases is characterized by a relatively small crystallite size of typically less than about 500 Angstroms. Preferably the sorbents are prepared by converting a precursor mixture, comprising a precipitated zinc oxide precursor and a precipitated aluminum oxide precursor, to the two-phase, active zinc oxide containing component. |
| US07956004B2 |
Catalyst for electrochemical reduction of oxygen
The invention relates to a sulphide catalyst for electrochemical reduction of oxygen particularly stable in chemically aggressive environments such as chlorinated hydrochloric acid. The catalyst of the invention comprises a noble metal sulphide single crystalline phase supported on a conductive carbon essentially free of zerovalent metal and of metal oxide phases, obtainable by reduction of metal precursor salts and thio-precursors with a borohydride or other strong reducing agent. |
| US07956002B2 |
Ionic liquid catalyst regenerated using a regeneration metal in the presence of added hydrogen
An ionic liquid catalyst, which has been regenerated by contacting a used ionic liquid catalyst with at least one regeneration metal in a regeneration zone in the presence of added hydrogen under regeneration conditions for a time sufficient to increase the activity of the ionic liquid catalyst. Also, an ionic liquid catalyst which has been regenerated by contacting a used ionic liquid catalyst with at least one regeneration metal in a regeneration zone in the presence of added hydrogen under regeneration conditions in the presence of an inert hydrocarbon in which conjunct polymers are soluble for a time sufficient to increase the activity of the ionic liquid catalyst. |
| US07956000B2 |
Process for activating a hydrotreating catalyst
The invention pertains to a process for activating an hydrotreating catalyst comprising a Group VIB metal oxide and a Group VIII metal oxide which process comprises contacting the catalyst with an acid and an organic additive which has a boiling point in the range of 80-500° C. and a solubility in water of at least 5 grams per liter (20° C., atmospheric pressure), optionally followed by drying under such conditions that at least 50% of the additive is maintained in the catalyst. The hydrotreating catalyst may be a fresh hydrotreating catalyst or a used hydrotreating catalyst which has been regenerated. |
| US07955996B2 |
Compositions and methods for the protection of substrates from heat flux and fire
A flame or heat flux protective coating composition, which includes a dispersion of fiberglass, hollow glass spheres, or a combination of both in silicone. A flame or heat flux protective sheet, which includes hollow glass spheres dispersed in silicone in a sheet form or fiberglass and silicone in a sheet form, wherein the fiberglass is dispersed in the silicone or the fiberglass is a woven cloth coated with the silicone is also presented. Articles incorporating the flame or heat flux protective coating or sheet form and methods for coating an article with the flame or heat flux protective coating composition are also presented. |
| US07955990B2 |
Method for improved thickness repeatability of PECVD deposited carbon films
Provided herein are improved methods of depositing carbon-based films using acetylene as a precursor. The methods involve using a low-vapor pressure solvent, e.g., dimethylfluoride (DMF) to stabilize the acetylene and delivering the acetylene to a deposition chamber. The methods provide improved wafer-to-wafer thickness uniformity and increase the usable amount of acetylene in an acetylene source to over 95%. |
| US07955989B2 |
Texturing semiconductor substrates
Semiconductors are textured with aqueous solutions containing non-volatile alkoxylated glycols, their ethers and ether acetate derivatives having molecular weights of 170 or greater and flash points of 75° C. or greater. The textured semiconductors can be used in the manufacture of photovoltaic devices. |
| US07955988B2 |
Photoresist trimming process
A photoresist trimming gas compound is provided which will selectively remove a resist foot or scum from the lower portions of sidewalls of a photoresist. Additionally, the trimmer compound hardens or toughens an upper surface of the photoresist thereby strengthening the photoresist. The trimmer compound includes O2 and at least one other gaseous oxide and is typically utilized in a dry etching process after a trench has been formed in a photoresist. The other oxide gases, in addition to the O2 may include CO2, SO2 and NO2. |
| US07955982B2 |
Method for smoothing wafer surface and apparatus used therefor
Disclosed is a method for smoothing the surface of at least one side of a wafer which is obtained by slicing a semiconductor ingot. In this method, a fluid is applied according to projections of the wafer surface, thereby reducing the projections. Alternatively, a fluid is applied over the wafer surface, thereby smoothing the entire surface of the wafer while reducing the projections in the wafer surface. |
| US07955980B2 |
Method of manufacturing semiconductor device
A post-CMP cleaning process of a copper layer is to be performed as follows. An alkaline aqueous solution, a polycarboxylic acid, BTA, and an alkaline aqueous solution are sequentially brought into contact with a primary surface of a silicon substrate over which the copper layer is provided. |
| US07955977B2 |
Method of light induced plating on semiconductors
Methods of light induced plating of nickel onto semiconductors are disclosed. The methods involve applying light at an initial intensity for a limited amount of time followed by reducing the intensity of the light for the remainder of the plating period to deposit nickel on a semiconductor. |
| US07955975B2 |
Semiconductor element and display device using the same
Provided is a semiconductor element including: a semiconductor having an active layer; a gate insulating film which is in contact with the semiconductor, a gate electrode opposite to the active layer through the gate insulating film; a first nitride insulating film formed over the active layer; a photosensitive organic resin film formed on the first nitride insulating film; a second nitride insulating film formed on the photosensitive organic resin film; and a wiring provided on the second nitride insulating film, in which a first opening portion is provided in the photosensitive organic resin film, an inner wall surface of the first opening portion is covered with the second nitride insulating film, a second opening portion is provided in a laminate including the gate insulating film, the first nitride insulating film, and the second nitride insulating film inside the first opening portion, and the semiconductor is connected with the wiring through the first opening portion and the second opening portion. |
| US07955971B2 |
Hybrid metallic wire and methods of fabricating same
A structure and methods of fabricating the structure. The structure comprising: a trench in a dielectric layer; an electrically conductive liner, an electrically conductive core conductor and an electrically conductive fill material filling voids between said liner and said core conductor. |
| US07955965B2 |
Nanophotovoltaic devices
The present invention provides nanophotovoltaic devices having sizes in a range of about 50 nm to about 5 microns, and method of their fabrication. In some embodiments, the nanophotovoltaic device includes a semiconductor core, e.g., formed of silicon, sandwiched between two metallic layers, one of which forms a Schottky barrier junction with the semiconductor core and the other forms an ohmic contact therewith. In other embodiment, the nanophotovoltaic device includes a semiconductor core comprising a p-n junction that is sandwiched between two metallic layers forming ohmic contacts with the core. |
| US07955964B2 |
Dishing-free gap-filling with multiple CMPs
A method of forming an integrated circuit structure includes providing a semiconductor substrate; forming patterned features over the semiconductor substrate, wherein gaps are formed between the patterned features; filling the gaps with a first filling material, wherein the first filling material has a first top surface higher than top surfaces of the patterned features; and performing a first planarization to lower the top surface of the first filling material, until the top surfaces of the patterned features are exposed. The method further includes depositing a second filling material, wherein the second filling material has a second top surface higher than the top surfaces of the patterned features; and performing a second planarization to lower the top surface of the second filling material, until the top surfaces of the patterned features are exposed. |
| US07955962B2 |
Method of reducing contamination by providing a removable polymer protection film during microstructure processing
By providing a protective layer in an intermediate manufacturing stage, an increased surface protection with respect to particle contamination and surface corrosion may be achieved. In some illustrative embodiments, the protective layer may be used during an electrical test procedure, in which respective contact portions are contacted through the protective layer, thereby significantly reducing particle contamination during a respective measurement process. |
| US07955961B2 |
Process for manufacture of trench Schottky
A trench-type Schottky semiconductor device and a method for fabricating the trench-type Schottky semiconductor device are disclosed. The method includes the steps of forming an epitaxial (EPI) layer atop a silicon substrate, forming a nitride layer atop the EPI layer, patterning a plurality of windows in the nitride layer into an active region and a termination region, forming a plurality of trenches in the active and termination regions such that the plurality of trenches in the termination regions are spaced apart from each other so as to form a plurality of mesas, lining the first type of trenches with a gate oxide layer, and converting the mesas to oxide mesas; and then applying a barrier layer metal to the mesas in the device active area and in the termination trenches. |
| US07955960B2 |
Nonvolatile memory device and method of fabricating the same
A nonvolatile memory device and a method of fabricating the same is provided to prevent charges stored in a charge trap layer from moving to neighboring memory cells. The method of fabricating a nonvolatile memory device, includes forming a first dielectric layer on a semiconductor substrate in which active regions are defined by isolation layers, forming a charge trap layer on the first dielectric layer, removing the first dielectric layer and the charge trap layer over the isolation layers, forming a second dielectric layer on the isolation layers including the charge trap layer, and forming a conductive layer on the second dielectric layer. |
| US07955958B2 |
Method for fabrication of polycrystalline diodes for resistive memories
The present invention, in one embodiment, provides a method of producing a PN junction the method including at least the steps of providing a Si-containing substrate; forming an insulating layer on the Si-containing substrate; forming a via through the insulating layer to expose at least a portion of the Si-containing substrate; forming a seed layer of the exposed portion of the Si containing substrate; forming amorphous Si on at least the seed layer; converting at least a portion of the amorphous Si to provide crystalline Si; and forming a first dopant region abutting a second dopant region in the crystalline Si. |
| US07955955B2 |
Using crack arrestor for inhibiting damage from dicing and chip packaging interaction failures in back end of line structures
A semiconductor product comprises a semiconductor substrate having a top surface and a bottom surface including a semiconductor chip. The semiconductor substrate has a top surface and a perimeter. A barrier is formed in the chip within the perimeter. An Ultra Deep Isolation Trench (UDIT) is cut in the top surface of the chip extending down therein between the perimeter and the barrier. A ILD structure with low-k pSICOH dielectric and hard mask layers is formed over the substrate prior to forming the barrier and the UDIT. The ILD structure interconnection structures can be recessed down to the substrate aside from the UDIT. |
| US07955950B2 |
Semiconductor-on-insulator substrate with a diffusion barrier
A diffusion barrier layer is incorporated between a top semiconductor layer and buried oxide layer. The diffusion barrier layer blocks diffusion of dopants into or out of buried oxide layer. The diffusion barrier layer may comprise a dielectric material such as silicon oxynitride or a high-k gate dielectric material. Alternately, the diffusion barrier layer may comprise a semiconductor material such as SiC. Such materials provide less charge trapping than a silicon nitride layer, which causes a high level of interface trap density and charge in the buried oxide layer. Thus, diffusion of dopants from and into semiconductor devices through the buried oxide layer is suppressed by the diffusion barrier layer without inducing a high interface trap density or charge in the buried oxide layer. |
| US07955949B2 |
Manufacturing method of SOI substrate
There is provided a method of manufacturing an SOI substrate which is practicable even when a supporting substrate having a low allowable temperature limit is used. A separation layer is formed in a region at a certain depth from a surface of a semiconductor substrate, and a first heat treatment is conducted when a semiconductor layer on the separation layer is bonded to the supporting substrate and separated. A second heat treatment is conducted to the supporting substrate to which the semiconductor layer is bonded. The second heat treatment is conducted at a temperature which is equal to or higher than the temperature of the first heat treatment and does not exceed a strain point of the supporting substrate. When the first heat treatment and the second heat treatment are conducted at the same temperature, a treatment time of the second heat treatment may be set to be longer. |
| US07955945B1 |
Weak-link capacitor
A process for making a dielectric material where a precursor polymer selected from poly(phenylene vinylene) polyacetylene, poly(p-phenylene), poly(thienylene vinylene), poly(1,4-naphthylene vinylene), and poly(p-pyridine vinylene) is energized said by exposure by radiation or increase in temperature to a level sufficient to eliminate said leaving groups contained within the precursor polymer, thereby transforming the dielectric material into a conductive polymer. The leaving group in the precursor polymer can be a chloride, a bromide, an iodide, a fluoride, an ester, an xanthate, a nitrile, an amine, a nitro group, a carbonate, a dithiocarbamate, a sulfonium group, an oxonium group, an iodonium group, a pyridinium group, an ammonium group, a borate group, a borane group, a sulphinyl group, or a sulfonyl group. |
| US07955937B2 |
Method for manufacturing semiconductor device comprising SOI transistors and bulk transistors
By forming bulk-like transistors in sensitive RAM areas of otherwise SOI-based CMOS circuits, a significant savings in valuable chip area may be achieved since the RAM areas may be formed on the basis of a bulk transistor configuration, thereby eliminating hysteresis effects that may typically be taken into consideration by providing transistors of increased transistor width or by providing body ties. Hence, the benefit of high switching speed may be maintained in speed-critical circuitry, such as CPU cores, while at the same time the RAM circuit may be formed in a highly space-efficient manner. |
| US07955925B2 |
Method of manufacturing semiconductor device
After gate insulating films, gate electrodes, and n+ type semiconductor regions and p+ type semiconductor regions for source/drain are formed, a metal film and a barrier film are formed on a semiconductor substrate. And a first heat treatment is performed so as to make the metal film react with the gate electrodes, the n+ type semiconductor region, and the p+ type semiconductor region, thereby forming a metal silicide layer formed of a monosilicide of a metal element forming the metal film. After that, the barrier film and the unreacted metal film are removed, and then a second heat treatment is performed to stabilize the metal silicide layer. The heat treatment temperature is made lower than a temperature at which a lattice size of a disilicide of the metal element and that of the semiconductor substrate become same. |
| US07955922B2 |
Manufacturing method of fin-type field effect transistor
A method for manufacturing a fin-type field effect transistor simply and securely by using a SOI (Silicon On Insulator) wafer, capable of suppressing an undercut formation, is disclosed. The method includes forming a fin-shaped protrusion by selectively dry-etching a single crystalline silicon layer until an underlying buried oxide layer is exposed; forming a sacrificial oxide film by oxidizing a surface of the protrusion including a damage inflicted thereon; and forming a fin having a clean surface by removing the sacrificial oxide film by etching, wherein an etching rate r1 of the sacrificial oxide film is higher than an etching rate r2 of the buried oxide layer during the etching. |
| US07955920B2 |
Field effect transistor with self-aligned source and heavy body regions and method of manufacturing same
A field effect transistor includes a plurality of trenches extending into a semiconductor region of a first conductivity type. The plurality of trenches include a plurality of gated trenches and a plurality of non-gated trenches. A body region of a second conductivity extends in the semiconductor region between adjacent trenches. A dielectric material fills a bottom portion of each of the gated and non-gated trenches. A gate electrode is disposed in each gated trench. A conductive material of the second conductivity type is disposed in each non-gated trench such that the conductive material and contacts corresponding body regions along sidewalls of the non-gated trench. |
| US07955919B2 |
Spacer-less transistor integration scheme for high-K gate dielectrics and small gate-to-gate spaces applicable to Si, SiGe and strained silicon schemes
A transistor integration process provides a damascene method for the formation of gate electrodes and gate dielectric layers. An interlayer-dielectric film is deposited prior to the gate electrode formation to avoid the demanding gap fill requirements presented by adjacent gates. A trench is formed in the interlayer-dielectric film followed by the deposition of the gate material in the trench. This process avoids the potential for damage to high-k gate dielectric layers caused by high thermal cycles and also reduces or eliminates the problematic formation of voids in the dielectric layers filling the gaps between adjacent gates. |
| US07955918B2 |
Robust transistors with fluorine treatment
A semiconductor device, and particularly a high electron mobility transistor (HEMT), having a plurality of epitaxial layers and experiencing an operating (E) field. A negative ion region in the epitaxial layers to counter the operating (E) field. One method for fabricating a semiconductor device comprises providing a substrate and growing epitaxial layers on the substrate. Negative ions are introduced into the epitaxial layers to form a negative ion region to counter operating electric (E) fields in the semiconductor device. Contacts can be deposited on the epitaxial layers, either before or after formation of the negative ion region. |
| US07955914B2 |
Method of producing an asymmetric architecture semi-conductor device
A method is for producing an asymmetric architecture semiconductor device. The device includes a substrate, and in stacked relation, a first photosensitive layer, a non-photosensitive layer, and a second photosensitive layer. The method includes a first step of exposing a first zone in each of the photosensitive layers by a first beam of electrons traversing the non-photosensitive layer. A second step includes exposing at least one second zone of one of the two photosensitive layers by a second beam of electrons or photons or ions, thereby producing a widening of one of the first zones compared to the other first zone such that the second zone is in part superimposed on one of the first zones. |
| US07955913B2 |
Method for manufacturing semiconductor device
A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device includes determining an active region in a semiconductor substrate, forming a recess in a gate region crossing over the active region, annealing an oxide layer formed in the recess to oxidize the active region in the gate region, and etching the active region by using the oxidized active region as an etch mask. |
| US07955912B2 |
Method of manufacturing a semiconductor device
Formation of LDD structures and GOLD structures in a semiconductor device is conventionally performed in a self aligning manner with gate electrodes as masks, but there are many cases in which the gate electrodes have two layer structures, and film formation processes and etching processes become complex. Further, in order to perform formation of LDD structures and GOLD structures only by processes such as dry etching, the transistor structures all have the same structure, and it is difficult to form LDD structures, GOLD structures, and single drain structures separately for different circuits. By applying a photolithography process for forming gate electrodes to photomasks or reticles, in which supplemental patterns having a function of reducing the intensity of light and composed of diffraction grating patterns or translucent films, are established, GOLD structure, LDD structure, and single drain structure transistors can be easily manufactured for different circuits through dry etching and ion injection process steps. |
| US07955909B2 |
Strained ultra-thin SOI transistor formed by replacement gate
A semiconductor structure is described. The structure includes a transistor formed in a semiconductor substrate, the semiconductor substrate having a semiconductor-on-insulator (SOI) layer; a channel associated with the transistor and formed on a first portion of the SOI layer; and a source/drain region associated with the transistor and formed in a second portion of the SOI layer and in a recess at each end of the channel, where the second portion of the SOI layer is substantially thicker than the first portion of the SOI layer. A method of fabricating the semiconductor structure is also described. The method includes forming a dummy gate in a semiconductor substrate; performing a SIMOX process to form a SOI layer such that a first portion of the SOI layer under the dummy gate is substantially thinner than a second portion of the SOI layer; forming a source/drain extension in the SOI layer; and recessing the source/drain extension for forming a source/drain region; epitaxially growing the second portion of the SOI layer; forming an insulating layer over the epitaxial growth; removing the dummy gate for forming a gate opening; and filling the gate opening with a gate dielectric material and a gate conductor material. |
| US07955902B2 |
Manufacturing method of semiconductor device with surface mounting terminals
A semiconductor device manufacturing method in which a semiconductor chip is connected to first and second lead frames. Source and gate electrodes extending over a first main surface of the semiconductor chip are connected to first electrode plates of the first lead frame and a drain electrode on the second main surface of the semiconductor chip, opposite to the first main surface, is connected to a drain electrode plate of the second lead frame. A sealing body is formed to cover the semiconductor chip and lead frames, while leaving the top surface of the drain electrode plate exposed with respect to the sealing body. Unnecessary portions of the first and second lead frames are cut off and surface mounting terminals are formed from the portions of the first and second electrode plates projecting from the sealing body. |
| US07955899B2 |
Method for providing and removing discharging interconnect for chip-on-glass output leads and structures thereof
Microelectronic devices may be fabricated while being protected from damage by electrostatic discharge. In one embodiment, a shorting circuit is connected to elements of the microelectronic device, where the microelectronic device is part of a chip-on-glass system. In one aspect of this embodiment, a portion of the shorting circuit is in an area of a substrate where a microchip is bonded. In another embodiment, shorting links of the shorting circuit are comprised of a fusible material, where the fusible material may be disabled by an electrical current capable of fusing the shorting links. |
| US07955898B2 |
Packaged microelectronic devices and methods for manufacturing packaged microelectronic devices
Packaged microelectronic devices and methods for manufacturing packaged microelectronic devices are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method for forming a microelectronic device includes attaching a microelectronic die to a support member by forming an attachment feature on at least one of a back side of the microelectronic die and the support member. The attachment feature includes a volume of solder material. The method also includes contacting the attachment feature with the other of the microelectronic die and the support member, and reflowing the solder material to join the back side of the die and the support member via the attachment feature. In several embodiments, the attachment feature is not electrically connected to internal active structures of the die. |
| US07955896B2 |
Method of manufacturing stacked semiconductor device
A first semiconductor element is mounted on a wiring board. A second semiconductor element having a portion projecting to an outer side of an outer periphery of the first semiconductor element is disposed on the first semiconductor element via an adhesive. The adhesive has a viscosity (μ0.5 rpm) at a low-rotation speed in a range from 10 Pa·s to 150 Pa·s and a thixotropic ratio of 2 or higher expressed by a ratio (μ0.5 rpm/μ5 rpm) of the viscosity (μ0.5 rpm) at the low-rotation speed to a viscosity (μ5 rpm) at a high-rotation speed. The second semiconductor element is bonded onto the first semiconductor element while the adhesive is filled in a hollow portion between the projecting portion of the second semiconductor element and the wiring board. |
| US07955885B1 |
Methods of forming packaged micro-electromechanical devices
Methods of forming packaged micro-electromechanical devices include forming a first substrate having a micro-electromechanical device therein, which extends adjacent a first surface of the first substrate. A first surface of a second substrate is then bonded to the first surface of the first substrate, to thereby encapsulate the micro-electromechanical device within a space provided between the first and second substrates. Subsequent to bonding, a second surface of the second substrate is selectively etched to define at least one through-substrate opening therein, which exposes an electrode of the micro-electromechanical device. Thereafter, the through-substrate opening is filled with an electrically conductive through-substrate via. |
| US07955883B2 |
Polymer replicated interdigitated electrode array for (bio) sensing applications
Interdigitated electrode arrays are very promising devices for multi-parameter (bio)sensing, for example the label-free detection of nucleic acid hybridization for diagnostic applications. The current disclosure provides an innovative method for the affordable manufacturing of polymer-based arrays of interdigitated electrodes with μm-dimensions. The method is based on a combination of an appropriate three-dimensional structure and a single and directional deposition of conductive material. The three-dimensional structure can be realized in a polymer material using a molding step, for which the molds are manufactured by electroplating as a reverse copy of a silicon master structure. In order to ensure sufficient electrical isolation and individual, but convenient, accessibility of the sensors in the array, the interdigitated electrode regions need to be complemented with specific features on the three-dimensional structure. Combined with the use of e.g. shadow masks in the deposition step, these features allow for the site-specific deposition of the conductive material. The technology described has the additional advantage to integrate highly miniaturized and arrayed electronics elements into polymer micro-fluidics technology, which leads to the affordable manufacturing of (bio)sensor arrays. |
| US07955878B2 |
Semiconductor light emitting device and method of manufacturing the same
A semiconductor light emitting device can include a casing having a concave-shaped cavity with an opening, a semiconductor light emitting element installed in a bottom portion of the cavity, and a resin layer for filling an interior of the cavity. The resin layer can include a wavelength conversion material, and can be formed in a convex shape in a light radiation direction of the light emitting element. In the resin layer a layer with a high density of the wavelength conversion material can be formed near a surface of the convex shape. |
| US07955877B2 |
Method for simulating long-term performance of a non-volatile memory by exposing the non-volatile memory to heavy-ion radiation
Testing a non volatile memory by exposing the non volatile memory to particle radiation (e.g. xenon ions) to emulate memory cell damage due to data state changing events of a non volatile memory cell. After the exposing, the memory cells are subjected to tests and the results of the tests are used to develop reliability indications of the non volatile memory. Integrated circuits with non volatile memories of the same design are provided. Reliability representations of the integrated circuits can be made with respect to a number of data state charging events based on the exposure and subsequent tests. |
| US07955876B2 |
Method for simulating deposition film shape and method for manufacturing electronic device
A deposition film shape simulation method for calculating a thickness of a thin-film formed by supplying deposition species on a substrate surface, includes: changing a parameter to be used in the calculation depending on the thickness of the deposited thin-film. |
| US07955875B2 |
Forming light emitting devices including custom wavelength conversion structures
Methods of forming a light emitting device include selectively forming a wavelength conversion structure on a light emitting element using stereolithography. Selectively forming the wavelength conversion structure may include covering the light emitting element with a photo-curable liquid polymer containing a luminescent material, and exposing the liquid polymer to light for a time sufficient to at least partially cure the liquid polymer. Multiple layers of polymer can be selectively built up to form a wavelength conversion structure having a custom shape on the light emitting element. |
| US07955868B2 |
Method of forming a micromagnetic device
A method of forming a micromagnetic device on a substrate including forming a first insulating layer above the substrate, a first seed layer above the first insulating layer, a first conductive winding layer above the first seed layer, and a second insulating layer above the first conductive winding layer. The method also includes forming a first magnetic core layer above the second insulating layer, a third insulating layer above the first magnetic core layer, and a second magnetic core layer above the third insulating layer. The method still further includes forming a fourth insulating layer above the second magnetic core layer, a second seed layer above the fourth insulating layer, and a second conductive winding layer above the second seed layer and in vias to the first conductive winding layer. The first and second conductive winding layers form a winding for the micromagnetic device. |
| US07955864B2 |
Device and method for making discrete volumes of a first fluid in contact with a second fluid, which are immiscible with each other
Various embodiments described in the application relate to an apparatus, system, and method for generating, within a conduit, discrete volumes of one or more fluids that are immiscible with a second fluid. The discrete volumes can be used for biochemical or molecular biology procedures involving small volumes, for example, microliter-sized volumes, nanoliter-sized volumes, or smaller. The system can comprise an apparatus comprising at least one conduit operatively connected to one or more pumps for providing discrete volumes separated from one another by a fluid that is immiscible with the fluid(s) of the discrete volumes, for example, aqueous immiscible-fluid-discrete volumes separated by an oil. |
| US07955850B2 |
Stem cells obtained from pulp of deciduous or permanent teeth and of dental germ, able to produce human bone tissue
In this invention is described a method that foresees the isolation of a new subpopulation of stem cells derived form dental pulp, whose differentiation is osteoblasts lead to the subsequent production and employment of a bone tissue, called LAB (Living Autologous Bone). Specifically, the invention describes: 1) the isolation of stem cells from the pulp of deciduous and permanent teeth and of dental germs, obtained from human subjects; 2) the growth of these cells in vitro, under specific conditions that allow the isolation of a cellular sub-population, which, after differentiation in osteoblasts, is able to produce in vitro an extracellular matrix, identical to that detectable in bone tissue; 3) the use of this selected and differentiated cell population in order to produce autologous bone tissue in vitro, containing vital osteoblasts; 4) the preservation of the LAB under conditions which guarantee cellular vitality; 5) the use of the LAB in donor patients to reconstruct bone tissue, as required in the daily practice in dentistry, maxillo-facial surgery and orthopedics. |
| US07955848B2 |
MicroRNA biomarkers for human breast and lung cancer
The present invention relates to novel molecular markers for diagnosis and classification of human breast cancer and lung cancer. |
| US07955847B2 |
Method for enhancing leukocyte immune function
The present invention provides a method for enhancing the immune function of leukocytes in a subject, which comprises the steps of: (a) isolating leukocytes from the subject; (b) treating the leukocytes obtained from step (a) with an inhibitor of the endoplasmic reticulum calcium ion pump; and (c) administrating the treated leukocytes obtained from step (b) back to the subject. A pharmaceutical composition for enhancing the immune function of leukocytes in a subject and a method for preparing said pharmaceutical composition are also provided. |
| US07955842B2 |
Microfluidic device and method for concentrating sample containing cells or viruses and lysing cells or viruses, and method of producing the microfluidic device
A microfluidic device for concentrating a sample including cells or viruses and lysing the cells or viruses, the device including an anode chamber including an anode electrode, a cathode chamber including a cathode electrode and an ion exchange membrane separating the anode chamber and the cathode chamber. The cathode chamber includes a solid support therein. A method of producing the microfluidic device and a method of concentrating a sample including cells or viruses and lysing the cells or viruses therein using the microfluidic device. |
| US07955833B2 |
Animal protein free media for cultivation of cells
The present invention relates to animal protein free cell culture media comprising a combination of non-animal derived peptides derived from soy hydrolysate and yeast hydrolysate. The invention also provides an animal protein free culture process, wherein cells are cultivated, propagated and passaged without animal-derived components. This process is useful for cultivating cells, such as recombinant cells or cells infected with a virus, and for production biological products by cell culture processes under conditions devoid of animal protein components. |
| US07955827B2 |
Controlled electroporation and mass transfer across cell membranes
Electroporation is performed in a controlled manner in either individual or multiple biological cells or biological tissue by monitoring the electrical impedance, defined herein as the ratio of current to voltage in the electroporation cell. The impedance detects the onset of electroporation in the biological cell(s), and this information is used to control the intensity and duration of the voltage to assure that electroporation has occurred without destroying the cell(s). This is applicable to electroporation in general. In addition, a particular method and apparatus are disclosed in which electroporation and/or mass transfer across a cell membrane are accomplished by securing a cell across an opening in a barrier between two chambers such that the cell closes the opening. The barrier is either electrically insulating, impermeable to the solute, or both, depending on whether pore formation, diffusive transport of the solute across the membrane, or both are sought. Electroporation is achieved by applying a voltage between the two chambers, and diffusive transport is achieved either by a difference in solute concentration between the liquids surrounding the cell and the cell interior or by a differential in concentration between the two chambers themselves. Electric current and diffusive transport are restricted to a flow path that passes through the opening. |
| US07955824B2 |
Methods of making epothilones
The invention provides novel compounds that may be used as intermediates in the preparation of epothilones, epothilone analogs and derivative, as well as new synthetic methods for producing the intermediates and products. |
| US07955819B2 |
Process for producing sugar chain asparagine derivative
A process for preparing asparagine-linked oligosaccharide derivatives including the steps of: (a) treating a delipidated egg yolk with a protease to obtain a mixture of peptide-linked oligosaccharides, (b) treating the mixture of peptide-linked oligosaccharides with a peptidase to obtain a mixture of asparagine-linked oligosaccharides, (c) introducing a lipophilic protective group into the asparagine-linked oligosaccharides in the mixture to obtain a mixture of asparagine-linked oligosaccharide derivatives, and (d) subjecting the mixture of asparagine-linked oligosaccharide derivatives to chromatography to separate the mixture into individual asparagine-linked oligosaccharide derivatives. |
| US07955816B2 |
Design and synthesis of biotinylated probes for N-acyl-ethanolamines
The present invention relates to the synthesis and characterization of biotinylated analogue of N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA) and its use as a tool to study AEA transport and trafficking through biochemical and morphological techniques. In particular biotinylated AEA (b-AEA, for which we propose the common name MM22) is suitable to design highly sensitive and simple methods for the non-radioactive detection and quantitation of AEA from complex samples, which would offer a useful alternative approach to the routinely used radiometric assays. The invention also relates to the use of b-AEA as a potential therapeutic and diagnostic agent. |
| US07955811B2 |
Method for diagnosing and distinguishing stroke and diagnostic devices for use therein
A method for determining whether a subject has had a stroke and, if so, the type of stroke which includes analyzing the subject's body fluid for at least four selected markers of stroke, namely, myelin basic protein, S100 protein, neuronal specific enolase and a brain endothelial membrane protein such as thrombomodulin or a similar molecule. The data obtained from the analyses provide information as to the type of stroke, the onset of occurrence and the extent of brain damage and allow a physician to determine quickly the type of treatment required by the subject. |
| US07955809B2 |
Method for measuring human megalin
This invention provides a method for measuring human megalin that can be performed in a simpler manner within a shorter period of time than is possible with conventional techniques, and that can also quantify human megalin. This invention also provides a method that enables diagnosis of functional diseases, which are specific to cells, tissues, or organs, in a site-directed manner at an early stage. Measurement of human megalin enables detection of a disease in an organ in which megalin expression is observed. |
| US07955808B2 |
Bitter taste receptors
The present invention relates to bitter-taste receptors and their role in bitter taste transduction. The invention also relates to assays for screening molecules that modulate, e.g. suppress or block, bitter taste transduction, or enhance bitter taste response. |
| US07955807B2 |
Method of measuring PTX3 with high sensitivity
To provide a method of determining vasculopathy, which is a risk factor of myocardial infarction, angiopathic dementia, etc., at an early stage thereof (i.e., mild vasculopathy). The present invention provides a method of determining the severity of mild vasculopathy, including determining PTX3 level in an assay sample by use of an anti-PTX3 monoclonal antibody. |
| US07955796B2 |
Method for the direct detection of methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus
Described is a method for the detection and quantification of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus from a specimen comprising a) contacting the specimen with Anti-Protein A antibodies so as to adsorb methicillinresistant Staphylococcus aureus and/or methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus, b) separating said antibodies to which methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and/or methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus have been adsorbed from the specimen, c) lysing methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and/or methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus adsorbed to said antibodies so as to release their DNA, d) combining the released DNA with (i) probes and/or primers which are specific for a target DNA sequence of the mecA gene of methicillin -resistant Staphylococcus aureus and/or of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermis, (ii) probes and/or primers which are specific for a target DNA sequence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus other than a target DNA sequence of the mecA gene and (iii) probes and/or primers which are specific for a target DNA sequence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermis other than a target DNA sequence of the mecA gene, whereby the target DNA sequences of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermis are not homologous, e) subjecting the combined released DNA and the specific probes and/or primers to conditions which permit amplification of said target DNA sequences, f) detecting the presence and amount of the amplified target DNA sequences as an indication of the presence and amount of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, new primers and probes and diagnostic kits for the detection and quantification of MRSA. |
| US07955795B2 |
Method of whole genome amplification with reduced artifact production
Disclosed are compositions and methods for amplification of nucleic acid sequences of interest with greater efficiency and fidelity. The disclosed method relates to isothermal amplification techniques, such as Multiple Displacement Amplification (MDA), where the generation of DNA artifacts is decreased or eliminated. Generally, this can be accomplished by carrying out the reaction at elevated temperature. In particularly useful embodiments of the method, sugars and/or other additives can be used to stabilized the polymerase at high temperature. It has been discovered that generation of high molecular weight artifacts, in an isothermal amplification procedure, is substantially reduced or eliminated while still allowing the desired amplification of input DNA by carrying out the reaction at a higher temperature and, optionally, in the presence of one or more additives. It also has been discovered that isothermal amplification reactions can produce amplification products of high quality, such as low amplification bias, if performed at a higher temperature and, optionally, in the presence of one or more additives. |
| US07955793B2 |
Cultured silkworm cells capable of highly efficient baculovirus production and protein production
Known cell lines derived from silkworm exhibit low propagation efficiency of BmNPV. Accordingly, systems using known culture cell lines derived from silkworms take a long time to establish recombinant viruses, and are not suitable for preparation of virus solutions with high titers. The present invention provides a cell line Bme21 (FERM P-20852) that is derived from a silkworm embryo and is highly susceptible to BmNPV or its variant having the same biological characteristics. The present invention also provides a method of producing a recombinant virus, a method of producing a recombinant protein, a method of increasing efficiency of recombinant virus production, and a method of increasing efficiency of recombinant protein production, using the cell line Bme21 or its variant. |
| US07955792B2 |
Diluent for norovirus or sapovirus specimen and method for detecting virus
The present invention relates to a diluent for a Norovirus or Sapovirus specimen, the diluent containing an alkaline buffer of pH 9.0 to 10.0, and to a method for detecting a Norovirus or a Sapovirus through use of the diluent. According to the present invention, a Norovirus or a Sapovirus can be detected in a Norovirus- or Sapovirus-containing specimen such as stool, vomit, body fluid, blood, body tissue, or food, in a convenient manner without use of a special machine such as a centrifuge, with an improved detection sensitivity, and with complete elimination of non-specific factors. |
| US07955791B2 |
Prewetting lateral flow test strip
A test strip and method for detecting an analyte present in a sample. The test strip comprising: a buffer addition zone to which a buffer may be added; an absorbent zone proximal to the buffer addition zone; one or more test zones distal to the buffer addition zone, at least one of the test zones including a first analyte binding agent immobilized therein which is capable of binding to the analyte to be detected; a terminal buffer flow zone distal to the one or more test zones, the absorbent zone being positioned relative to the buffer addition zone and having an absorption capacity relative to the other zones of the test strip such that when a volume of buffer within a predetermined buffer volume range for the test strip is added to the buffer addition zone, a distal diffusion front of the buffer diffuses from the buffer addition zone to a distal diffusion point within the terminal buffer flow zone and then diffuses proximal relative to the one or more test zones; and a sample addition zone distal to the terminal buffer flow zone to which a sample may be added. |
| US07955789B2 |
Adhesion-preventing material and process for preventing adhesion
An object of the present invention is to provide an adhesion-preventing material which is capable of effectively preventing the surfaces of organs from adhesion, and which can be absorbed in the body with high safety and produced with ease and has high practical utility, as well as to a process for preventing adhesion by using the adhesion-preventing material.The present invention provides (1) an adhesion-preventing material comprising a crosslinked water absorbent poly-γ-glutamic acid as an effective ingredient; (2) the adhesion-preventing material described above, wherein the crosslinked water absorbent poly-γ-glutamic acid is in the form of powder having a water absorption coefficient in the range of 800-2000; (3) a process for preventing organ from adhesion, comprising a step of bringing the adhesion-preventing material described above into contact with the surface of a local organ; and (4) the process for preventing adhesion described above, wherein the surface of the local organ is in wet state. |
| US07955786B2 |
Production of a multilayer optical recording medium using a stamper
Provided is a light transmissive stamper having light transmissivity with respect to an ultraviolet ray and durability for repeated use. Specifically, on a light transmissive substrate, a light transmissive auxiliary layer and an inorganic resist layer are formed sequentially, and a light beam is selectively irradiated to the inorganic resist layer, to thereby modify an inorganic resist ranging from a surface of the inorganic resist layer to a surface of the light transmissive auxiliary layer. Then, a part modified by the light beam or an unmodified part is selectively removed until the light transmissive auxiliary layer is exposed, thereby forming an uneven pattern corresponding to an information pattern in the inorganic resist layer. |
| US07955785B2 |
Method for forming fine concavo-convex patterns, method for producing optical diffraction structure, and method for copying optical diffraction structure
A method for forming fine concavo-convex patterns by using a relief formation material 3 having a relief formation layer 2 composed of a resin having thermoplasticity and a relief pattern sheet 6 having on a surface thereof fine concavo-convex patterns 5, wherein a photothermal conversion layer 7 is formed in the relief formation material 3 or the relief pattern sheet 6; the photothermal conversion layer 7 is irradiated with light 8 to make the photothermal conversion layer 7 generate heat in the state that the relief formation layer 2 is brought into contact with the fine concavo-convex patterns 5; and the fine concavo-convex patterns 5 are formed on the relief formation layer 2. |
| US07955784B2 |
Photoresist composition and method of manufacturing a thin-film transistor substrate using the same
A photoresist composition includes about 100 parts by weight of resin mixture including novolak resin and acryl resin and about 10 parts to about 50 parts by weight of naphthoquinone diazosulfonic acid ester. A weight-average molecular weight of the novolak resin is no less than about 30,000. A weight-average molecular weight of the acryl resin is no less than about 20,000. The acryl resin makes up about 1% to about 15% of the total weight of the resin mixture. When a photoresist film formed using the photoresist composition is heated, a profile variation of the photoresist composition is relatively small. Therefore, a residual photoresist film has a uniform thickness, and a short circuit and/or an open defect in a TFT substrate may be reduced. |
| US07955780B2 |
Positive resist composition and pattern forming method using the same
Provided is a positive resist composition using a resin having, in the polymer main chain, a specific acid decomposable structure and further having, in the side chain thereof, several specific acid decomposable groups, satisfactory in an exposure latitude, a focus latitude, and pattern collapse prevention at a high level, and having reduced development defects; and a pattern forming method. |
| US07955777B2 |
Compound, acid generator, resist composition and method of forming resist pattern
There are provided a compound represented by a general formula (b1-1) shown below suitable as an acid generator for a resist composition, a compound represented by a general formula (I) shown below suitable as a precursor for the compound represented by the general formula (b1-1), an acid generator, a resist composition, and a method of forming a resist pattern.[Chemical Formula 1] X—Q1—Y1—SO3−M+ (I) X—Q1—Y1—SO3−A+ (b1-1) (wherein, Q1 represents a bivalent linking group or a single bond; Y1 represents an alkylene group which may contain a substituent group or a fluorinated alkylene group which may contain a substituent group; X represents an aromatic cyclic group of 5 to 30 carbon atoms which contains a fluorine atom and may contain a substituent group; M+ represents an alkali metal ion; and A+ represents an organic cation.). |
| US07955769B2 |
Control of crazing, cracking or crystallization of a charge transport layer in a photoconductor
Embodiments of a photoconductor for use in a printer or printer cartridge comprise an electrically conductive substrate, a charge generation layer disposed over the electrically conductive substrate, and a charge transport layer disposed over the charge generation layer, wherein the charge transport layer comprises charge transport molecules with octyl/decyl glycidyl ether (OGE) or dodecyl/tetradecyl glycidyl ether (DGE), or combinations thereof, added to improve resistance to crazing, cracking and crystallization in the change transport layer. |
| US07955767B2 |
Method for examining a wafer with regard to a contamination limit and EUV projection exposure system
A method for examining at least one wafer (13) with regard to a contamination limit, in which the contamination potential of the resist (13a) of the wafer (13), which resist (13a) outgasses contaminating substances, is examined with regard to a contamination limit before the wafer (13) is exposed in an EUV projection exposure system (1). The method preferably includes: arranging the wafer (13) and/or a test disc coated with the same resist (13a) as the resist (13a) of the wafer (13) in a vacuum chamber (19), evacuating the vacuum chamber (19), and measuring the contamination potential of the contaminating substances outgassed from the wafer (13) in the evacuated vacuum chamber (19), and also comparing the contamination potential of the wafer (13) with a contamination limit. An EUV projection exposure system (1) for carrying out the method is also disclosed. By rejecting wafers having an especially high contamination risk, the contamination of optical elements in the projection exposure system (1) on wafer exposure may be distinctly reduced. |
| US07955765B2 |
Adjustment method, exposure method, device manufacturing method, and exposure apparatus
An adjustment method for adjusting an illumination condition in illuminating an original plate using an illumination optical system and projecting an image of a pattern formed on the original plate onto a substrate through a projection optical system includes measuring a polarization state of light that has passed through the illumination optical system, the original plate, and the projection optical system in a state where the original plate is located on an object plane of the projection optical system, and adjusting the polarization state based on the measured polarization state. |
| US07955764B2 |
Methods to make sidewall light shields for color filter array
Methods of forming color filters having a light blocking material therebetween. A color filter is formed such that a trench is defined between a color filter and an adjacent color filter. The trench may be formed by exposing the color filter to polymerizing conditions such as, for example, ultraviolet radiation and heat. The trench may also be formed by etching between adjacent color filters. A material is formed within the trench. |
| US07955760B2 |
Method of correcting defect in photomask
Disclosed herein is a method of correcting defects in photomasks. According to one embodiment, a light absorption layer is formed on a photomask where pin hole defects occur in a light blocking layer, and light absorption patterns are formed on the pin hole defect portions by selectively etching the light absorption layer. According to another embodiment, a light absorption layer is formed on a backside of a photomask having pin hole defects in a light blocking layer, and light absorption patterns are formed on the backside of the photomask substrate corresponding to a region having pin hole defects by etching the light absorption layer. |
| US07955757B2 |
Catalyst for fuel cell, membrane-electrode assembly, method of manufacturing the assembly, and fuel cell using the assembly
A membrane-electrode assembly comprising a cathode catalyst layer for reducing an oxidant gas, a polymer electrolyte membrane and an anode catalyst layer, the polymer electrolyte membrane being sandwiched between the catalyst layers, wherein the cathode catalyst layer exhibits super-water-repellency. The disclosure is also concerned with a method of manufacturing the membrane-electrode assembly and a fuel cell using the membrane-electrode assembly. |
| US07955752B2 |
Reduction of voltage loss by voltage cycle through the use of specially formed bipolar plates
A fuel cell that includes specially configured bipolar plates that separate the reactant gas flow field in an active area of the fuel cell into a primary flow channels and a secondary channels. In one embodiment, the primary flow channels are in use over the entire operating range of the fuel cell and the secondary flow channels are only in use at high cell current outputs. At low power demands, the primary channels operate at a voltage below 0.8 volts and provides a gas current density of more than 0.2 A/cm2. The secondary flow channels have no gas supply and operate at mass transport limited conditions. Because of this design, voltage cycling is significantly reduced or eliminated, thus increasing the life of the fuel cell. |
| US07955750B2 |
Controlled electrode overlap architecture for improved MEA durability
A membrane electrode assembly includes a membrane layer, a cathode or anode catalyst layer adjacent to a surface of the membrane layer, an anode or cathode catalyst layer adjacent to an other surface of the membrane layer, an adhesive layer adjacent to the other surface of the membrane layer, wherein the adhesive layer abuts a surface of the anode or cathode catalyst layer, and a subgasket layer having an edge portion, wherein the subgasket layer is adjacent to a surface of the adhesive layer, wherein the cathode catalyst layer and anode catalyst layer extend along a length of the membrane layer relative to the edge portion of the subgasket layer, wherein the cathode or anode catalyst layer extends a greater length along the length of the membrane layer than the anode or cathode catalyst layer relative to the edge portion of the subgasket layer. |
| US07955749B2 |
Carbon-fueled fuel cell
A fuel cell in which carbon and water react to form hydrogen or water. The cells utilize electrolyte materials that hold or coordinate water to allow the useful reaction of carbon and water at moderate temperatures without the use of expensive pressure reactors. Activated carbon or carbon recovered from organic waste is used to fuel these cells to produce hydrogen gas or carbon dioxide and power at moderate temperatures and at very low cost. |
| US07955743B2 |
Adaptive gain scheduled control for current limitation based on voltage performance of a fuel cell system
A system and method for limiting the output current of a fuel cell stack as the stack degrades overtime. A look-up table identifies a predetermined voltage set-point for stack current density. A first comparator provides a voltage difference signal between the set-point and the stack voltage. The voltage difference signal is provided to a controller, such as a proportional-integral controller, that provides a current limiting signal. The current limiting signal and a current request signal are provided to a second comparator that selects which signal will be used to limit the maximum output current of the stack. A polarization curve estimator estimates parameters of the stack that will change over the life of the stack. The parameters are provided to a gain scheduler that provides gains to the controller that are based on where in the life of the stack it is currently operating. |
| US07955735B2 |
Non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery
A non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery that has a high electrical capacity and exhibits excellent cycle characteristics even when the battery is rapidly charged and discharged at a large current includes: a positive electrode capable of reversibly absorbing and desorbing Li; a negative electrode; and a non-aqueous electrolyte. The negative electrode includes an alloying material that is capable of electrochemically absorbing and desorbing Li, and includes an A phase composed mainly of Si and a B phase including an intermetallic compound of at least one transition metal element and Si. The transition metal element is selected from the group consisting of Ti, Zr, Ni, Cu, and Fe. The A phase and/or the B phase includes a microcrystalline or amorphous region. The weight percent of the A phase relative to the total weight of the A phase and the B phase is greater than 40% and not greater than 95%. |
| US07955732B2 |
Collecting plate and secondary battery with the same
A secondary battery includes an electrode group with both positive and negative electrodes and a separator interposed therebetween and a case wherein the electrode group is located. A cap assembly is combined with the case, seals it, and is electrically connected to the electrode group. Collecting plates are electrically connected to the uncoated region of the positive and negative electrodes. The respective collecting plates have a plurality of holes thereon, and may be located at both the top and the bottom of the case so that electrolyte infusion can be rapidly and easily performed. |
| US07955727B2 |
Battery pack
Disclosed herein is a battery pack including: a plurality of cylindrical battery cells arranged in a plurality of rows and a plurality of layers; and a partition member for partitioning the battery cells; wherein each the battery cell is larger in diametral size on the positive electrode terminal side than on the negative electrode terminal side; the partition member includes a partition plate, and ribs formed in corners formed between the partition plate and support plates provided to be substantially orthogonal to the partition plate at substantially regular intervals, the ribs being operative to support the battery cells; and the ribs are formed correspondingly to the shape of the battery cell. |
| US07955719B2 |
Tandem OLED device with intermediate connector
A tandem OLED device including an anode; a cathode; at least two electroluminescent units disposed between the anode and the cathode, wherein each of the electroluminescent units includes at least one hole-transporting layer and one organic light-emitting layer; and an intermediate connector disposed between adjacent electroluminescent units, wherein the intermediate connector includes an n-doped organic layer and an electron-accepting layer, the electron-accepting layer being disposed closer to the cathode than the n-doped organic layer, and wherein the n-doped organic layer includes an alkali metal and an organic alkali metal complex. |
| US07955718B2 |
Organic EL element and process for manufacture of organic EL element
The organic EL element of the invention which achieves the aforementioned object is provided with a base, first and second electrode layers situated facing each other on one side of the base, and a luminescent layer situated between the electrode layers, wherein one of the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer is a hole injection electrode layer while the other is an electron injection electrode layer, an organic thin-film layer made of a vapor depositable polar organic compound with an energy gap of 3.5 eV or greater is provided between the luminescent layer and the electron injection electrode layer, and the organic thin-film layer has a thickness of 0.1 nm-4 nm. |
| US07955717B2 |
Organic electroluminescent device and method of preparing the same
An organic electroluminescent device and a method of preparing the same are provided. The organic electroluminescent device includes a sealing layer which is formed on a sealing substrate, and which includes a cohesion layer, a transparent polymer layer, and a transparent moisture absorption layer. Since the transparent moisture absorption layer of the organic electroluminescent device is provided to a sealing substrate using an attaching method, the organic electroluminescent device has an improved life span property due to a firm sealed structure and better light extraction efficiency due to the transparent moisture absorption layer below the sealing substrate. |
| US07955715B2 |
Method for coating a component for use in a crucible drawing method for quartz glass, and coated component obtained according to the method
In a known method for coating a crucible for use at a high working temperature in a crucible drawing method for quartz glass, a base body wall of tungsten has applied thereto a protective layer containing a coating metal consisting of the group selected from iridium, rhenium, osmium and ruthenium. Starting therefrom, to provide a method for producing such a component exhibiting high corrosion resistance to the quartz glass melt at low material costs, it is suggested according to the invention that the protective layer should be produced from a layer material which contains tungsten and the coating metal, and in which the amount of the coating metal should be dimensioned such that it exceeds the limit amount of a coating metal-rich phase boundary of a solid mixture phase of tungsten and the coating metal, with the solid mixture phase being thermodynamically stable at the working temperature, by not more than 25 at. % (based on the total amount of tungsten and the coating metal in the layer material). |
| US07955714B2 |
Coating composition for a metal, and metal material having a coating of such coating composition
A coating composition for a metal is provided. The coating composition comprises a synthetic resin solid content (A); a filler (B); and a mixture of (C-1) at least one member selected from an acetylene glycol represented by the following general formula (1): an ethylene oxide-propylene oxide block adduct of an acetylene glycol represented by the following general formula (2): and an ethylene oxide-propylene oxide random adduct of an acetylene glycol represented by the following general formula (3): and (C-2) a polyoxyalkylene alkyl ether having an HLB of 8 to 18 represented by the following general formula (4): R7O(C3H6O)v(C2H4O)w(C3H6O)x(C2H4O)y(C3H6O)zH (4). |
| US07955709B2 |
Organic light emitting display device and method of fabricating the same
An organic light emitting display device and a method of fabricating the same, in which a resonance effect is suppressed and transmittance is substantially the same in a wavelength band of visible light. The organic light emitting display device includes: a substrate; a first electrode disposed on the substrate and including a reflection layer; an organic layer disposed on the first electrode and including a white emission layer; a second electrode disposed on the organic layer; a transmittance controlled layer disposed on the second electrode; and a metal layer disposed on the transmittance controlled layer. |
| US07955706B1 |
Composite armor tile based on a continuously graded ceramic-metal composition and manufacture thereof
A cermet armor material for highly effective ballistic performance which is comprised of a layer of base metal in which is deposited a layer or layers of ceramic and a compatible metal such that the deposited metal in combination with the base metal forms a continuous matrix around the ceramic particles. The body has a structure which is continuously graded from a highest ceramic content at the outer surface (strike face) decreasing to zero within the base substrate, and contained no abrupt interfaces. |
| US07955703B2 |
Silicone rubber based pressure sensitive adhesive sheet
There are disclosed a silicone rubber based pressure sensitive adhesive sheet comprising a transparent substrate film and a silicone rubber layer which is formed by coating the surface of the transparent substrate film with silicone rubber in an amount of 5 to 100 g/m2 (after drying) containing addition type organopolysiloxane composed of organopolysiloxane having a siloxane bond as a principal skeleton and bearing an alkenyl group and of organohydrogenpolysiloxane, the silicone rubber further containing 0.01 to 3.0 parts by mass of a platinum catalyst based on 100 parts by mass of the addition type organopolysiloxane, and then by curing the resultant coating, and which has adhesion for float glass in accordance with JIS Z 0237 being in the range of 10 to 1000 mN/25 mm, holding power (load of one kg) of at least 24 hours and a 100% modulus in the range of 0.3 to 1.5 MPa. The resultant silicone rubber based pressure sensitive adhesive sheet is imparted with strong holding power, sufficient adhesiveness to the substrate film and sufficient removability from an adherend enabling repeated sticking even if an additive such as an adhesion improving agent is not blended, and at the same time which makes it possible to use as a releasing film, an inexpensive film not subjected to a releasing treatment. |
| US07955702B2 |
One component glass primer including oxazoladine
Improved long open time one component primer compositions for bonding substrates, methods and the articles made therefrom. The primer compositions include an ingredient including an oxazolidine ring or derivative or analog thereof. |
| US07955701B2 |
Prepreg and resin for preparing the same
A composition for preparing a resin is provided. The composition includes a brominated epoxy resin, a urethane-modified copolyester, a curing agent and a solvent. A prepreg is also provided. The prepreg includes a glass fabric and a resin layer on the glass fabric. The resin layer is made from the foregoing resin. |
| US07955695B2 |
Three-dimensional orientation of grated flakes
The invention relates to a coating on a surface, including a carrier and a plurality of flakes dispersed therein. The flakes are oriented quasi-normally to the surface and have grooves extending quasi-parallel to the surface, wherein the plurality of flakes forms at least 50% of all grated flakes in the coating. The invention also relates to a method of aligning the flakes using external fields of different orientations. |
| US07955693B2 |
Foam composition roller brush with embedded mandrel
The invention is directed toward a chemical mechanical polishing/planarizing (CMP) brush with an embedded mandrel. PVA foam injected into the substantially hollow mandrel expands through apertures in the mandrel to fill a mold in the desired shape of the brush with the foam in the mandrel being integral with the outer foam covering the brush. |
| US07955692B2 |
Protective garment comprising fibers comprising copolymers containing structures derived from a plurality of amine monomers including 4,4′ diamino diphenyl sulfone
The invention concerns a protective garment comprising a fabric made from a flame-resistant yarn having a fiber, obtainable by spinning a copolymer from the polymerization solution, derived from a plurality of amine monomers, including 4,4′diaminodiphenyl sulfone amine monomer, and at least one acid monomer; having use in heat-resistant protective apparel. |
| US07955690B2 |
Sleeved fuser member
A fuser member is described wherein the fuser member includes a core, a cushion comprising a first layer adjacent to the core and a second layer on top of the first layer, and a plastic sleeve. Also described is a process for producing a fuser member, which includes applying a first layer of cushioning composition on a core, applying a second layer of cushioning composition on the first layer of the cushioning composition, and applying a plastic sleeve on the second layer of the cushioning composition. |
| US07955688B2 |
Wave-like structures bonded to flat surfaces in unitized composites and methods for making same
A simplified manufacturing technique to directly form a unitized composite structure with at least one relatively flat surface and at least one sinuous element in an internally-bonded unitized composite is provided. A matrix of fibrous and or other materials is deposited in layers which are subsequently formed into corrugated or wave-like shapes and exposed to an activation step. At least one element is composed of a contractive material which shrinks when activated, such as by heating in an oven, to become relatively flat and optionally bonded to at least one other non-contractive layer which remains in a sinuous shape after the activation step. |
| US07955687B2 |
Antifouling material and production method thereof
The subject of the invention is the use of a material composed of a substrate equipped with a coating based on titanium oxide surmounted by a thin hydrophilic layer forming at least one part of the outer surface of said material and that is not composed of titanium oxide, as a material that prevents the deposition of mineral soiling on said outer surface in the absence of water runoff. |
| US07955682B2 |
Photochemical and photothermal rearrangements for optical data and image recording
A system for recording and/or transmitting optical data or visual images includes an optical data or visual image recording medium and a light and/or heat source. The medium includes a markable coating established on a substrate. The markable coating includes a leuco dye and a developer precursor including a compound that undergoes rearrangement in response to a stimulus, thereby forming a developer that reacts with the leuco dye. The light/heat source is positioned so as to illuminate and/or heat the medium in a predetermined manner to i) cause photochemical and/or photothermal rearrangement of the developer precursor to form the developer which reacts with the leuco dye to form an optically detectable mark, or ii) cause at least one optically detectable mark previously formed on the markable coating to produce at least one readable pattern. |
| US07955681B2 |
Optical article having a material capable of undergoing a morphological transformation as an anti-theft feature and a system and method for inhibiting theft of same
An optical article configured to transform from a pre-activated state of functionality to an activated state of functionality is provided. The optical article includes an optical data layer for storing data, wherein the data is read from the optical data layer in an activated state of functionality, and a material capable of undergoing a morphological transformation being disposed on the optical data layer and adapted to irreversibly alter from a first morphology to a second morphology upon interaction with the external stimulus to alter the state of functionality of the optical article from a pre-activated state to the activated state. |
| US07955679B2 |
System and method for protecting a surface area
The invention is an impermeable floor cover for protecting a surface while working along door regions, which utilizes one or more cover components, designed to allow full door movement variability. The specialized cover is made with a light, flexible and durable fabric, which maintains a flat composure and is adapted to register with one or more door jambs to substantially cover a floor space. Each cover component includes multiple grooves adapted to register with a door's jambs for protecting a surface area from undesired exposure to substances such as paint. |
| US07955677B2 |
Two-sided non-stick release film
Assemblies for the adhesive attachment to the skin or mucosa of a host are disclosed. The assembly or transdermal patch includes an outer backing layer, a first layer of adhesive on the inner surface of the outer backing layer, an inner backing layer, and an intermediate release liner between the first layer of adhesive and the inner backing layer. The intermediate release liner includes a releasable surface on both its inner and outer surfaces. |
| US07955671B2 |
Crush-resistant disposable lid and containers utilizing same
A domed lid 12 for a food container 10 is configured for ease of engagement and removal from a container base 14. The lid characteristically includes: (a) a dome portion 16 with a top wall 24 and a sidewall 26; (b) a flange portion 28 extending outwardly away from a lower portion of the sidewall; and (c) a tab portion 30 extending outwardly from the flange. The flange portion is provided with a rim 32 having a variable profile around the rim characterized in that: (i) the rim is provided with a securing undercut portion 36 extending around the majority of its periphery adapted to secure the lid to an outer border of base 14; and (ii) the rim has a pair of relatively passive engagement profile portions 42, 44 on either side of tab 30, extending to the securing undercut portion of the rim, the passive engagement profile portions are configured so that they are undercut less than the securing undercut portion of the lid, thereby facilitating engagement of the lid with, or removal of the lid from, base 14. |
| US07955667B2 |
Inkjet recording medium and method of making the same
An inkjet recording medium includes a substrate, a base layer, and a porous ink receiving layer. The base layer is established on at least one surface of the substrate, and the porous ink receiving layer is established on the base layer. The base layer includes calcined clay present in an amount ranging from about 25% to about 75% by dry weight. |
| US07955664B2 |
Chroman compounds
The chroman compounds of the formula I according to the invention R1-(A1-Z1)a—W1—(Z2-A2)b-Z3—W2—(Z4-A3)c-R2 in which R1, A1, A2, A3, W1, W2, Z1, Z2, Z3, Z4, a, b and c have the meanings indicated in claim 1, have two moieties W1 and W2 derived from chroman. The compounds are suitable as components of anisotropic switching media, as used, for example, in liquid-crystal display devices. |
| US07955663B2 |
Process for the simultaneous and selective preparation of single-walled and multi-walled carbon nanotubes
Processes for the simultaneous and selective growth of single walled and multiwalled carbon nanotubes in a single set of experiments are disclosed. The processes may include preparing a graphite electrode rod containing catalyst selected from Fe, Co, Ni, and a mixture thereof, acting as an anode. The process may include preparing another graphite electrode rod, each electrode having a distal and a proximal end. The process may include placing the above said two electrodes parallel to each other and their axis being substantially aligned in a chamber. The process may further include creating a DC-arc discharge inside the chamber by applying a DC-current voltage. The process may further include an cooling assembly having a cooling coil that surrounds the two electrodes. The cooling assembly may be used to maintain a temperature gradient that permits the depositing of single walled and multiwalled carbon nanotubes simultaneously in one experiment. |
| US07955661B2 |
Treatment of micropores in mica materials
A method for the treatment of micro pores within a mica paper that includes: obtaining a silane with a molecular weight of between approximately 15 and 300, adding the silane to the mica paper, and reacting the silane with the inner surface of the micro pores within the mica paper. After this, a resin is impregnated into the mica paper, and the resin binds to the inner surfaces of the micro pores with the mica paper through the silane. In one embodiment, the mica paper is compressed by an amount between 5% and 30% of its original thickness. In another embodiment, the mica paper is compressed both prior to reacting the silane and during impregnation with the resin. |
| US07955660B2 |
Silane monomers and siloxane polymers for semiconductor optoelectronics
A method for producing a polymer for semiconductor optoelectronics, comprising the steps of providing a monomer is produced having the formula: wherein: R1 is a hydrolysable group R2 is hydrogen, and R3 is a bridging linear or branched bivalent hydrocarbyl group, said monomer being produced by hydrosilylation of the corresponding starting materials, and homo- or copolymerizing the monomer to produce a polymer. |
| US07955658B2 |
Building material composition, especially bitumen-free sealant
The present disclosure provides a building material composition which is suitable in particular for use as a bitumen-free sealant for sealing structures and contains a polymer dispersion or a corresponding redispersion powder, in particular based preferably on emulsion polymers which are redispersible in an aqueous medium, together with polystyrene particles, hollow ceramic and synthetic microspheres and, if appropriate, at least one binder and, if appropriate, further additives. The sealant according to the invention can in principle be formulated as a 1C or 2C application system. In addition to excellent sealing properties, as can conventionally be achieved only with bitumen-containing sealants, the bitumen-free building material composition according to the invention shows in particular excellent shrinkage behavior after application. |
| US07955657B2 |
Aqueous composition for making coating solutions for producing supports endowed with anti-blocking properties, method for making such supports and resulting supports
This aqueous composition for coating supports to provide same with anti-blocking properties, comprises: 50 to 99 parts of a binding polymer; 1 to 50 parts of expansible microspheres, The binding polymer is a copolymer having at least one crosslinkable function. |
| US07955656B2 |
Hydrophilic member and process for producing the same
A process for producing a hydrophilic member, includes: coating a surface of a base material with a hydrophilic composition containing at least (a) a catalyst, (b) a hydrophilic polymer and (c) a metal alkoxide; and drying the composition, wherein a temperature for the drying is from 10° C. to 60° C. |
| US07955652B2 |
Enrobed core
An enrobed a core, such as a tablet core, that has a coating made of one or more patterned films each having portions that are visually distinct (e.g., differently colored) from one another and having a transition line segment between these visually distinct portions. At least a portion of an outer surface of the core is covered with the film or films, such that the transition line segments form a substantially continuous transition line on the coating and a film seam is formed which is different from the transition line. Where the patterned films are bi-colored, the resulting enrobed core can be bi-colored, or the resulting enrobed core can have a coating with at least four visually distinct portions alternately arranged thereon, thereby forming a “checkerboard” pattern on the coating. In either case, the film seam of the coating is different from the transition line of the coating. |
| US07955648B2 |
Thin alignment layers for liquid crystal displays
A method to form alignment layers on a substrate of an LCD is disclosed. The substrate is placed in a vacuum chamber and undergoes a purging process. The purging process heats the substrates and removes water vapor from the vacuum chamber. Specifically, The vacuum chamber is evacuated to a low pressure and refilled with a preheated inert gas. Evacuation of the vacuum chamber and refilling of the vacuum chamber is repeated several times. The alignment layer is then deposited using chemical vapor deposition. |
| US07955646B2 |
Elimination of flow and pressure gradients in low utilization processes
The amount of atoms diffused into a substrate may be made uniform or the thickness of a thin film may be made uniform in a low species utilization process by stopping the flow of gas into a reaction chamber during the low species utilization process. Stopping the flow of gas into a reaction chamber may entail closing the gate valve (the valve to the vacuum pump), stabilizing the pressure within the reaction chamber, and maintaining the stabilized pressure while stopping the gas flowing into the chamber. Low species utilization processes include the diffusion of nitrogen into silicon dioxide gate dielectric layers by decoupled plasma nitridation (DPN), the deposition of a silicon dioxide film by rapid thermal processing (RTP) or chemical vapor deposition (CVD), and the deposition of silicon epitaxial layers by CVD. |
| US07955645B2 |
Method for applying selectively a layer to a structured substrate by the usage of a temperature gradient in the substrate
A semiconductor wafer (10) is structured such that fine structures (3), such as membranes, bridges or tongues, with a thickness d< |
| US07955644B2 |
Method for selectively anchoring large numbers of nanoscale structures
A method is provided for creating composites by combining pre-fabricated nanoscale structures (nanostructures) and other materials in which the nanostructures are anchored. This method results in anchored nanostructures with their base held and encased within the anchoring material to a specified depth and with a specified length of protrusion of the nanostructures from the anchoring material. This represents a major advance over previous methods of creating composites containing nanostructures which were limited to fully embedded nanostructures or, at best, very limited and uncontrolled protrusion of nanostructures. In summary, the current method involves bringing nanostructures and anchoring materials into physical contact in a controlled fashion and optionally conducting a treatment step to complete the anchoring process. |
| US07955641B2 |
Method of making a piezoelectric device
A method of forming a piezoelectric device is disclosed. In one such method, a coating material is formed. The coating material has a piezoelectric precursor. The coating material is applied to a first electrode. The precursor is heated to a temperature that is above the Curie temperature of the precursor, but below the melting temperature of the precursor. While the precursor is above its Curie temperature, a voltage is applied across the precursor. While the voltage is applied across the precursor, the temperature of the precursor is reduced to below the Curie temperature. |
| US07955632B2 |
Process for manufacturing chewable dosage forms for drug delivery and products thereof
A palatable, edible soft chewable medication vehicle for delivery of a pharmaceutically acceptable active ingredient, such as a drug, to an animal or human subject. The edible soft chews contain only food grade or better inactive ingredients, and preferably do not contain ingredients of animal origin. Processes for manufacturing the edible soft chews do not require the use of heat or the addition of water during mixing of active and inactive ingredients, provide stable concentrations of the active ingredient, and produce chews of consistent weight and texture. |
| US07955628B2 |
Methods of using nonpolar grape seed extracts to stimulate tyrosinase expression or melanin synthesis
The present invention relates to methods of increasing tyrosinase synthesis, expression, or activity in a cell comprising administering to the cell at least one non polar grape seed extract, for example, a nonpolar grape seed extract obtained using hexane as an extraction solvent. The nonpolar grape seed extract may be obtained by any extraction process including solvent sequential fractionation and supercritical fluid extraction. |
| US07955627B1 |
Organic compositions and methods of use
An organic composition comprising ginger, turmeric, cumin, fennel, cinnamon, red pepper, chia seed, celery seed, and hibiscus petals, preferably in a ratio of about 2:1:2:2:2:2:4:2:1, is disclosed. The composition is useful for treating and/or preventing certain physical ailments. |
| US07955625B2 |
Production of canola protein
A canola protein isolate having a protein content of at least about 90 wt % (N×6.25), preferably at least about 100 wt %, and consisting predominantly of the 2S protein and substantially free from the 7S and 12S proteins is prepared. In one aspect, canola oil seed meal is extracted with aqueous protein solution at an elevated temperature to preferentially extract 2S protein from the meal to produce a canola protein solution containing predominantly 2S protein. The 2S canola protein is recovered as an isolate. In another aspect, the canola oil seed meal is extracted with aqueous saline solution to extract 2S, 7S and 12S proteins from the meal. The aqueous protein extract solution is heat treated at an elevated temperature to precipitate 7S and 12S proteins and leave a 2S protein solution from which the isolate may be recovered. In a further aspect, the aqueous protein solution is concentrated prior to the heat treatment. |
| US07955611B2 |
Binding and rinse-off of quaternary ammonium compounds for cosmetic and personal care applications
The disclosed composition and method includes the use of non-polar unsaponifiable material and polar hydrophilic salts in conjunction with quaternary ammonium compounds to provide hair treatment preparations for cosmetic and personal care applications. Disclosed features and specifications may be variously controlled, adapted or otherwise optionally modified to improve substantivity and/or rinse-off characteristics. Exemplary embodiments of the present invention generally provide hair conditioners, shampoos, straighteners, permanent waves, color-fast dyes, non-color-fast dyes, and repair treatments with jojoba hydrolysates in combination with Quaternium 80 for increased substantivity and superior wash/rinse-off benefits. |
| US07955604B2 |
Nucleic acids and proteins from streptococcus groups A and B
The invention provides proteins from group B streptococcus (Streptococcus agalactiae) and group A streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes), including amino acid sequences and the corresponding nucleotide sequences. Data are given to show that the proteins are useful antigens for vaccines, immunogenic compositions, and/or diagnostics. The proteins are also targets for antibiotics. |
| US07955603B2 |
Norovirus vaccine formulations
The present invention relates to antigenic and vaccine compositions comprising Norovirus antigens and adjuvants, in particular, mixtures of monovalent VLPs and mixtures of multivalent VLPs, and to a process for the production of both monovalent and multivalent VLPs, the VLPs comprising capsid proteins from one or more Norovirus genogroups. |
| US07955598B2 |
Therapeutic agent for chronic arthritides diseases of childhood-related diseases
A therapeutic agent for chronic arthritides diseases of childhood-related diseases, for example chronic arthritides diseases of childhood, Still's disease and the like, comprising an interleukin-6 (IL-6) antagonist as an active ingredient. |
| US07955590B2 |
Fc fusion proteins for enhancing the immunogenicity of protein and peptide antigens
Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for enhancing the immunogenicity of a preselected protein or peptide antigen in a mammal. Immunogenicity is enhanced by fusing the preselected antigen to an immunoglobulin heavy chain constant region to produce an Fc-antigen fusion protein. The Fc-antigen fusion proteins bind Fc receptors on the surface of antigen presenting cells, thereby targeting the antigen to the antigen presenting cells in the mammal. In addition, disclosed is a family of adjuvants, for example, an Fc-adjuvant fusion protein, for use in combination with the Fc-antigen fusion proteins to enhance or modulate a particular immune response against the preselected antigen. |
| US07955587B2 |
System and method for the production of alpha type gypsum using heat recovery
The present invention relates to a system and associated method for the production of gypsum in manufacturing plant. More specifically, the invention relates to the production of alpha-type gypsum in a gypsum board manufacturing plant. The system yields increased efficiencies by capturing heat given off during processing steps and using that heat to reduce the energy needed for calcination. The invention finds particular application in the production alpha-type gypsum. The present invention is described in greater detail hereinafter in conjunction with the following specific embodiments. |
| US07955583B2 |
Metallic silicon and method for manufacturing the same
This metallic silicon is manufactured by refining molten crude metallic silicon by unidirectional solidification, and has a purity of 3N or more to 6N or less and an average crystal grain diameter of 1 mm or more. This method for manufacturing the metallic silicon includes: solidifying molten crude metallic silicon in a mold which contains fine silica particles in an inner peripheral layer thereof by unidirectional solidification at a rate of 1 mm/min or less; and then cooling to 200° C. or below at a rate of 2° C./min or less. |
| US07955574B2 |
Porous thin film and process for analyte preconcentration and determination
A porous thin film and a method are disclosed. The film has a generally uniform thickness and includes fused silica particles that provide multiple types of pores in the film. Particles are generally uniformly distributed on a surface and have a generally open structure that provides the film with an open interface readily accessible to fluids. The film provides for preconcentration of, e.g., heavy metals in fluid and gas samples that provides for direct determination of the analytes. |
| US07955571B2 |
Intermittently opened cracking crude oil apparatus
The present invention discloses an intermittently opened cracking crude oil apparatus comprising a high pressure container (1), a support post (2) and a gold sleeve (3). A sealed reaction chamber of natural gas (4) is formed between an exterior surface of the support post and an interior surface of the gold sleeve, and a sealed high pressure chamber (5) is formed between an interior surface of the high pressure container and an exterior surface of the gold sleeve. A gas outlet is provided in the support post and communicates the reaction chamber of natural gas, the gas outlet communicating a gas conduit (7), the gas conduit being connected to a natural gas collector (8). A movable valve needle (9) is provided on the gas outlet to control open and close of the gas outlet. A liquid inlet (10) is provided on the high pressure container and communicates the high pressure chamber, the liquid inlet communicating a liquid conduit (11) which communicates a high pressure liquid supply. A heater (12) and a nozzle of liquid nitrogen (13) are provided outside the high pressure container. A thermocouple (14) is provided on the high pressure container, the thermocouple being connected to a temperature control (15) which can control operating conditions of the heater and the nozzle of liquid nitrogen. |
| US07955569B2 |
Metal halide reactor for CVD and method
A reaction vessel (reactor) is shown that, filled with metal and placed either within a CVD type furnace or in a housing in fluid communication with the CVD type furnace can produce commercial quantities of a metal halide gas over extended time periods and multiple furnace runs. The control of temperature and the simplicity of this reaction vessel allows temperature differentials between the metal halide gas produced and the CVD type reactor target thus providing differing deposits. The reactor is noteworthy in that no valves, flow restrictors or other equipment which could create corrosion problems is used in the heated/reactive area of the vessel thus producing very high quality metal halide gas. |
| US07955567B2 |
Triple helical flow vortex reactor improvements
Improvements to a triple helical flow vortex reactor add an inner wall (103) having at least one transition point (121) between the fuel inlet end (101) and the gas outlet end (102) and a circumferential flow apparatus (120) operating at each transition point (121). A restrictor at each transition point (121) is optionally added to reduce aerodynamic resistance to the various fluid flows. A vortex swirler is optionally added through the fuel inlet end, which preferably surrounds an inlet nozzle combined with a plasma torch. The fuel inlet end is optionally equipped with cooling channels in which a coolant can flow isolated from the reaction chamber. An optional coaxial cylindrical wall extends through the reaction chamber and creates a toroidal volume for reactions. |
| US07955559B2 |
Nanoelectronic electrochemical test device
Nanoelectronic devices for the detection and quantification of biomolecules are Provided. In certain embodiments, the devices are configured to detect and measure blood glucose levels. Also provided are methods of fabricating nanoelectronic devices for the detection of biomolecules. |
| US07955556B2 |
Analyzer
An analyzer capable of operating in a normal processing mode performing sequential analysis of a plurality of specimens and in an interrupting mode performing analysis of an urgent specimen that comprising a suction unit for suctioning an urgent specimen, an analysis unit for analyzing an urgent specimen suctioned by the suction unit, an urgent specimen container holder for holding an urgent specimen container containing an urgent specimen, and a moving mechanism for moving the urgent specimen container holder between a placement position at which an urgent specimen container is placed in the holder, and a suction position at which an urgent specimen is suctioned from an urgent specimen container, wherein the moving mechanism comprises a movement force supplying mechanism for supplying a force to move the urgent specimen container holder from the suction position to the placement position is disclosed. |
| US07955551B2 |
Alkali metal dispenser and uses for same
The present invention provides an improved alkali metal dispenser which is pure and free of contaminant gases, and provides for controlled releasing, delivery and recycling of the alkali metal in multiple stages in a controlled manner. The present invention also provides an alkali metal pump or getter. |
| US07955550B2 |
Method of preparing a molded article
The method includes providing a mold apparatus (1) that includes, a first mold portion (11) having an interior mold surface (14) having a plurality of perforations (26) and a perimeter edge (17). The mold apparatus (11) further includes at least one tubular sheet retainer (35) having an exterior surface (38) having a plurality of perforations (41) and a longitudinal axis (44) that is oriented along at least a portion of the perimeter edge (17) of the first mold portion (11). Each tubular sheet retainer (35) is reversibly and controllably: (i) positionable along an x-, y- and/or z-axis relative to the perimeter edge (17); and (ii) rotatable around its longitudinal axis (44), toward and/or away from the perimeter edge (17). A heated thermoplastic sheet (95) is formed and contacted (while at a thermoformable temperature) with the interior surface (14) of the first mold portion (11) and the exterior surfaces (38) of the tubular sheet retainers (35). Reduced pressure is drawn through the perforations (41) of the tubular sheet retainers (35) thereby retaining a portion of the heated thermoplastic sheet (95) thereon. The tubular sheet retainers (35) are rotated and/or moved along the x-, y- and/or z-axes with the sheet retained thereon, relative to the perimeter edge (17). Reduced pressure is drawn through the perforations (26) of the interior mold surface (14), thereby drawing the heated thermoplastic sheet (95) into intimate contour matching contact there-with. |
| US07955548B2 |
Method for making three-dimensional preforms using electroluminescent devices
The present invention relates to methods of making preforms, fiber-reinforced molded articles and fiber mats, wherein the methods use electroluminescent devices such as LED's and/or quantum dots. |
| US07955544B2 |
Surface shaping of compressible cellular polymers with continuous rotary method
Apparatus and methods for cutting compressible cellular polymers such as polyurethane foam, are characterized by a first die roller and a pressure roller, wherein both rollers define raised portions separated by recesses or depressions, and the raised portions on the first die roller register with the recesses of the pressure roller at a nip formed between the rollers. Portions of the polymer material extruded into the spaces between the raised portions of the first die roller are cut away, such that the cut product conforms substantially to the surface geometry of the first die roller, and the depth of cut is greater than with prior rotary cutting methods. |
| US07955543B2 |
Method of overmolding a substrate
A method of overmolding a substrate having a first side and a second side and a product made by that process. A plurality of support feet are placed on the first side of the substrate. The substrate is placed in an injection mold. The mold is filled with a molding material with the molding material enveloping both the first side and the second side of the substrate. The substrate is removed having been overmolded from the injection mold. |
| US07955542B2 |
Method of producing a throttle assembly
A method of producing a throttle assembly. The method including inserting a first core into a mold portion to form a first throttle component cavity between the first core and the mold portion, providing a first thermoset plastic material into the first throttle component cavity to form a first throttle component, removing the first core from the mold portion while maintaining the first throttle component positioned within the mold portion, inserting a second core into the mold portion to form a second throttle component cavity between the mold portion, the first throttle component, and the second core, providing a second thermoset plastic material into the second throttle component cavity to form a second throttle component, removing the second core from the mold portion, removing the first throttle component and the second throttle component from the mold portion, and separating the first throttle component from the second throttle component. |
| US07955540B2 |
Extrusion of thermoplastic elastomers
A method of forming a thermoplastic vulcanizate by first providing a melt-blender having a die through which melt-blended thermoplastic vulcanizate passes to form a shaped article; wherein the die comprises a flow design having at least one flow branch having a taper angle and a flow reservoir at the end of each flow branch; and wherein the taper angle of the flow design ranges from 5 to 20 degrees; followed by melt-blending a thermoplastic and an elastomer with an organic peroxide curative in the melt-blender to form a thermoplastic vulcanizate; and finally, passing the melt-blended thermoplastic vulcanizate through the flow design to form the shaped article. |
| US07955534B1 |
Monolithic substrate of materials containing multiple opened channels of one dimensional macropore having a mesoporous inner surface extending through the substrate and a method of making the same
A monolithic substrate of materials containing within it multiple opened channels of one dimensional macropore have a mesoporous inner surface and a method for making the same, wherein each of the opened channels is isolated from each other. The isolated channels of the one dimensional pore are aligned with and continuously extend through the entire substrate which contains various mesopores in three dimensions. The macropore has preferred pore sizes ranging from about 0.1 micrometers to about 20 micrometers, and the mesopore has a preferred pore size which is less than 500 angstrom. |
| US07955533B2 |
Process for the preparation of transparent shaped articles
Disclosed is a process for the preparation of shaped articles such as, for example, sheeting, films, tubes, bottles, preforms and profiles, having high transparency and low haze comprising immiscible blends of one or more thermoplastic polymers selected from polyesters, polycarbonates, and polyarylates, and a copolyamide or a transamidized, homogeneous blend of a least two polyamides. The components of the immiscible blend which have refractive indices which differ by about 0.006 to about −0.0006. The small difference in the refractive indices enable the incorporation of regrind into the polymer composition to produce transparent shaped articles. These articles may have one or more layers and can exhibit improved excellent barrier properties and good melt processability while retaining excellent mechanical properties. Metal catalysts can be incorporated into the compositions to produce shaped articles having oxygen-scavenging properties. |
| US07955532B2 |
High performance capsules for electrophoretic displays
The present invention is directed to novel non-aqueous capsules suitable as display cells for an electrophoretic display and the encapsulation process for their manufacture. The present invention is also directed to an encapsulation process for the preparation of non-aqueous capsules suitable as display cells for an electrophoretic display. The process comprises emulsifying an internal phase comprising pigment particles or pigment-containing microparticles dispersed in a halogenated solvent and a halogenated shell-forming material into an external phase comprising a complementary chain extender or crosslinker in an organic solvent. |
| US07955526B2 |
Addition of (a) blocking agent(s) in a ceramic membrane for clocking crystalline growth of grains during atmospheric sintering
A composite material (M) comprising: at least 75% by volume of a mixed electronic conductor compound oxygen anions O<2->(C1) selected from doped ceramic compounds which, at the temperature of use, are present in the form of a crystalline network having ion oxide lattice vacancies and, more particularly, in the form of a cubic phase, a fluorite phase, a perovskite phase, of the aurivillius variety, a Brown-Millerite phase or a pyrochlore phase; and 0.01%-25% by volume of a compound (C2) which is different from compound (C1), selected from oxide-type ceramic materials, non-oxide type ceramic materials, metals, metal alloys or mixtures of said different types of material; and 0%-2.5% by volume of a compound (C3) produced from at least one chemical reaction represented by the equation: xFC1+yFC2 - - - >zFC3, wherein FC1, FC2 and FC3 represent the raw formulae of compounds (C1), (C2) and (C3) and x, y and z represent rational numbers above or equal to 0. The invention also relates to a method for the preparation and use thereof as mixed conductor material for a membrane catalytic reactor used to synthesize synthetic gas by catalytic oxidation of methane or natural gas and/or as mixed conductor material for a ceramic membrane. |
| US07955525B2 |
Peroxide reduction in functionalized vegetable oils
Disclosed is an oil composition wherein the oil contains measurable amounts of peroxide resulting from peroxidation, and also includes an effective amount of a peroxide-reducing phosphorous compound, preferably an alkyl/aryl substituted phosphite compound or phosphinic acid (H3PO2) and its derivatives. |
| US07955521B2 |
Etchant and method for fabricating a thin film transistor substrate including conductive wires using the etchant and the resulting structure
Provided are an etchant, a method for fabricating a wire using the etchant, and a method for fabricating a thin film transistor (TFT) substrate using the etchant. The etchant includes a material having the formula 1, ammonium acetic acid, and the remainder of deionized water, wherein the formula 1 is expressed by: M(OH)XLY (1) where M indicates Zn, Sn, Cr, Al, Ba, Fe, Ti, Si, or B, X indicates 2 or 3, L indicates H2O, NH3, CN, COR, or NH2R, Y indicates 0, 1, 2, or 3, and R indicates an alkyl group. |
| US07955520B2 |
Copper-passivating CMP compositions and methods
The present invention provides chemical-mechanical polishing (CMP) methods and compositions for polishing copper-containing substrates. The methods of the present invention entail abrading a surface of a copper-containing substrate with a CMP composition of the invention, preferably in the presence of an oxidizing agent (e.g., hydrogen peroxide). The CMP compositions of the invention comprise a particulate abrasive, a copper-complexing agent, a copper-passivating agent bearing an acidic OH group and an additional oxygen substituent in a 1,6 relationship to the acidic OH group, and an aqueous carrier. A preferred composition of the invention comprises about 0.01 to about 1 percent by weight of the particulate abrasive, about 0.1 to about 1 percent by weight of the copper-complexing agent, about 10 to about 1000 ppm of the copper-passivating agent. |
| US07955519B2 |
Composition and method for planarizing surfaces
The invention provides compositions and methods for planarizing or polishing a surface. One composition comprises about 0.01 wt. % to about 20 wt. % α-alumina particles, wherein the α-alumina particles have an average diameter of 200 nm or less, and 80% of the α-alumina particles have a diameter of about 500 nm or less, an organic acid, a corrosion inhibitor, and water. Another composition comprises α-alumina particles, an organic acid, dual corrosion inhibitors of triazole and benzotriazole, wherein the wt. % ratio of the triazole to benzotriazole is about 0.1 to about 4.8, and water. |
| US07955516B2 |
Etching of nano-imprint templates using an etch reactor
Methods for etching a metal layer using an imprinted resist material are provided. In one embodiment, a method for processing a photolithographic reticle includes providing a reticle having a metal photomask layer formed on an optically transparent substrate and an imprinted resist material deposited on the metal photomask layer, etching recessed regions of the imprinted resist material to expose portions of the metal photomask layer in a first etching step, and etching the exposed portions of the metal photomask layer through the imprinted resist material in a second etching step, wherein at least one of the first or second etching steps utilizes a plasma formed from a processing gas comprising oxygen, halogen and chlorine containing gases. In one embodiment, the process gas is utilized in both the first and second etching steps. In another embodiment, the first and second etching steps are performed in the same processing chamber. |
| US07955515B2 |
Method of plasma etching transition metal oxides
A method of plasma etching transition metal oxide thin films using carbon monoxide as the primary source gas. This permits carbonyl chemistries to be used at ambient temperature, without heating. |
| US07955513B2 |
Apparatus and method for reactive atom plasma processing for material deposition
A method for shaping a surface of a workpiece, comprises positioning at least one of a workpiece and an inductively-coupled plasma (ICP) torch including three concentrically arranged tubes. A plasma gas is introduced to an outer tube of the ICP torch and energy is transferred from a radio frequency (RF) power source to the plasma gas to generate an excitation zone at least partially downstream of the ICP torch. A reactive reactive precursor is introduced to the excitation zone, and an auxiliary gas is introduced to the intermediate tube to control a position of the excitation zone relative to the ICP torch so that a controlled distribution of reactive species is formed. The surface is shaped by removing material from the surface of the workpiece with at least a portion of the reactive species and adding material to the surface of the workpiece with at least a portion of the reactive species. |
| US07955504B1 |
Microfluidic devices, particularly filtration devices comprising polymeric membranes, and method for their manufacture and use
The present disclosure describes devices useful for microscale fluid purification, separation, and synthesis devices. Generally, such devices comprise a fluid membrane that separates two or more fluids flowing through plural microchannels operatively associated with the membrane. Often, the membrane is a semipermeable membrane, such as might be used with a filtration device, such as a dialyzer. Devices of the present invention can be combined with other microscale devices to make systems. For example, the devices may be coupled with one or more microchemical microfactories, one or more micromixers, one or more microheaters; etc. Particular materials had to be developed for use with certain embodiments of the device disclosed herein. For example, a new composite material was made comprising nanocrystalline cellulose filler and a polysulfone polymeric material. A dialyzer comprising the composite membrane also is disclosed. |
| US07955498B2 |
Reduction of organic halide contamination in hydrocarbon products
A method for reducing halide concentration in a hydrocarbon product having an organic halide content which is made by a hydrocarbon conversion process using a halogen-containing acidic ionic liquid catalyst comprising contacting at least a portion of the hydrocarbon product with an aqueous caustic solution under conditions to reduce the halide concentration in the hydrocarbon product is disclosed. |
| US07955495B2 |
Composition of middle distillate
A middle distillate, comprising hydrocarbons having a boiling range between 150° C. and 350° C., a NMR branching index greater than 60, and a CH3/CH2 hydrogen ratio greater than 2.6. Also, there is provided the middle distillate made by a process compressing alkylating an isoparaffin with an olefin under alkylation conditions over an unsupported ionic liquid catalyst, and providing an amount of halide containing additive to the alkylating step to achieve the NMR branching index and the CH3/CH2 hydrogen ratio. |
| US07955493B2 |
Method of measuring the number of bacteria, device of measuring the number of bacteria and cell used in the device
A method of measuring the number of bacteria according to the present invention includes step (a) through step (d). First, in step (a), a to-be-measured sample (specimen) including a predetermined bacterial strain (such as Escherichia coli or coliform bacteria) is added to a predetermined medium (such as a medium used for a specific enzyme substrate culture medium method). In step (b), a current value flowing through the medium added with the sample is measured with an oxygen electrode at a predetermined temperature and at a predetermined constant voltage. In step (c), time required is measured for the current value that has decreased temporarily after starting the measurement of step (b) to increase thereafter to exceed a predetermined threshold value. In step (d), the initial number of bacteria of the bacterial strain included in the sample is calculated based on the time required. |
| US07955492B2 |
Method for measuring blood components and biosensor and measuring instrument for use therein
The present invention provides a method of measuring a component in blood, by which the amounts of blood cells and an interfering substance can be measured with high accuracy and high reliability and the amount of the component can be corrected accurately based on the amounts of the blood cells and the interfering substance. In a sensor for measuring a blood component, a first working electrode 13 measures a current that flows during a redox reaction of a blood component, a second working electrode 17 measures the amount of blood cells, and a third working electrode 12 measures the amount of an interfering substance. Next, based on the measurement results, the amount of the blood component to be measured is corrected. Thus, more accurate and precise measurement of the amount of the blood component can be realized. |
| US07955491B2 |
Methods, devices, and infrastructure systems for separating, removing, compressing, and generating hydrogen
Hydrogen pumps include a proton conducting medium, and a nonporous hydrogen permeable anode electrode and/or nonporous hydrogen permeable cathode electrode. For example, the electrodes may be a solid thin metallic film such as palladium or a palladium alloy such as a palladium-copper alloy that allow for hydrogen permeation but not impurities, and thus, purifying a supply containing hydrogen. The proton conducting medium may be a solid anhydrous proton conducting medium disposed between the anode electrode and the cathode electrode. The anode electrode and the cathode electrode may be directly sealed to at least one of the proton conducting medium, a first member for distributing the supply containing hydrogen to the anode electrode, a second member for collecting a supply of purified hydrogen, and a gasket disposed around the proton conducting medium. |
| US07955490B2 |
Process for preparing sodium hydroxide, chlorine and hydrogen from aqueous salt solution using solar energy
A process for the production of sodium hydroxide, hydrogen gas and chlorine gas which comprises (1) forming an aqueous solution of sodium chloride, (2) placing the sodium chloride solution in a cell having two compartments separated by a separator, (3) subjecting the cell to a direct electrical current of about 3-24 volts and 0.1-500 K amperes; thereby generating hydrogen gas, chlorine gas and an aqueous sodium hydroxide solution and wherein the electrical current is generated by a solar panel. |
| US07955484B2 |
Glucose biosensor and method
A system for more accurately measuring glucose in a sample includes a first glucose-sensing electrode incorporating a quantity of glucose oxidase, a second glucose-sensing electrode incorporating a quantity of PQQ-glucose dehydrogenase, a reference electrode, and means for selecting between a first glucose measurement made with the first glucose-sensing electrode and a second glucose measurement made with the second glucose-sensing electrode. |
| US07955482B2 |
Water-proof electrochemical sensor
A water-proof electrochemical sensor for in situ analysis and real-time monitoring of chemical and biological compounds in a liquid analyte, such as a water column, or a water column/sediment interface, or sediment. The water-proof electrochemical sensor assembly comprises an electrode body that is resistant to high temperatures and pressure and includes a semi-hard o-ring or collar. A resilient elastomeric boot, that has an internal groove which is adapted to form a tight pressure-fit with the collar is installable on the electrode body. One end of the boot has an opening adapted to form an interference fit with a pin contact for electrical connections with external equipment and the other end of the boot has an opening adapted to form an interference fit with the electrode body whereby a water-proof seal is formed. |
| US07955481B2 |
Internal flow control in electrolytic cells
Method and apparatus for controlling two phase flow in electrolytic cells. The present invention is directed to any electrolytic cell, including but not limited to upflow electrolytic cells that comprise parallel electrodes in a vertical orientation. Fluid control strips are preferably added between the anode and cathode electrodes to control flow of fluid and gas bubbles generated between the electrodes in order to avoid the detrimental effects of gas bubbles on the conductivity of the fluid solution, and thereby increase production and operational efficiency of the electrolytic cell. |
| US07955479B2 |
Method and apparatus for conducting microwave assisted organic reactions with gas-phase reactants
A method of accelerating the hydrogenation of organic compounds is provided. The method includes positioning an microwave transparent reaction vessel containing at least one reactant suitable for hydrogenation in a microwave cavity, purging the reaction vessel, charging the reaction vessel with hydrogen gas, and applying a continuous single mode of microwave radiation within the cavity and to the vessel and its contents for a time sufficient to effect a chemical change in the reactants. |
| US07955478B2 |
Solar distillation device
A solar distillation apparatus utilizing a substantially vertical reactor assembly is disclosed. The reactor includes a tubular outer shell, a base, a cap, and a central tension member. The annular space between the outer tube and the central tension member forms the reactor chamber. Seawater or other feed liquid enters the reactor chamber through the base plate. Reflected or direct solar energy heats the feed liquid, generating low pressure vapor. The vapor exits the reactor through the cap structure or the base. The concentrate left behind settles by gravity to the bottom region of the reactor's liquid column. Extension tubes on the feed openings allow feed liquid to enter the liquid column above the concentrate layer and avoid excessive mixing of the feed liquid and the concentrate. The concentrate exits the reactor through one or more openings in the base. |
| US07955476B2 |
Multiple application purification and recycling device
A multiple application recycling and purification device has a coaxial core that is horizontally oriented, non-rotating, cylindrical distillation chamber. The enhanced, completely coaxial configuration continuously cleans the entire distillation chamber and spreads a thin film of liquid to enhance distillation and positively aid in the removal of remaining contaminants. Through a timed and positioned valve, the device removes and purges lower-temperature contaminants. Timed valves and sensors control all phases of the distillation to provide a coaxially integrated, stand-alone, adaptable, scalable and maintenance free distillation unit that self-monitors, self-cleans and economically functions to produce the pure distilled liquid, e.g., water. This device can be modified to purify any numerous array of liquids and can be scaled to produce any amount of purified liquids for either household, commercial, or industrial applications. |
| US07955475B2 |
Papermaking shoe press belt
A papermaking shoe press belt is formed of a reinforcing fiber base material and a polyurethane layer integrated with each other. The reinforcing fiber base material is embedded in the polyurethane layer. The papermaking shoe press belt includes, as the polyurethane layer, a polyurethane layer obtainable by curing a composition composed in combination of a urethane prepolymer and one or more curing agent. The urethane prepolymer is obtainable by reacting a p-phenylene diisocyanate compound with a long-chain polyol. The at least one curing agent is selected from 4,4′-methylene bis(2,6-diethyl-3-chloroaniline), 4,4′-methylene bis(2-chloroaniline), methylene bis(2-ethyl-6-methylaniline), 4,4′-methylene bis(2-ethylbenzeneamine), methylene bis(2,3-dichloroaniline), 4,4′-methylenedianiline, 3,5-dimethylthiotoluene-2,4-diamine, 3,5-dimethylthiotoluene-2,6-diamine, 3,5-diethyltoluene-2, 4-diamine, 3,5-diethyltoluene-2,6-diamine, polytetramethylene oxide di-p-aminobenzoate, poly(tetramethylene/3-methyl tetramethylene ether)glycol bis(4-aminobenzoate) , trimethylene bis(4-aminobenzoate) and isobutyl 4-chloro-3,5-diaminobenzoate. |
| US07955472B2 |
Interior construction material having deodorizing activity
High odor eliminating property is provided to a building material for interiors by compounding a hydrazide compound. Additionally, the odor eliminating property of the building material for interiors is improved and hygroscopicity and size stability at the time of use are provided by adding and compounding an organic carbide, an inorganic hygroscopic material, and a water repellent. Also, an interior structure in which these building materials for interiors are employed is provided. |
| US07955469B2 |
Label applicator having a heat idler
The use of a heat idler moveable along a path provides speed and flexibility in the heat labeling of containers. |
| US07955465B2 |
Display element and method of manufacturing display element
A display element includes a light emitting unit that supplies light; and an angle converting unit including a reflection surface, an output surface, and a flat surface. The angle converting unit converts an angle of the light by reflecting the light toward the output surface. The light emitting unit is arranged in a matrix in two directions substantially perpendicular each other on a standard plane. An inequality 0≦t |
| US07955464B2 |
Method of making a shielding device
A shielding device configured to provide EMI or ESD protection to an electronic component (80) comprises a cover (83), and a wall (10) of a resilient material. By molding the resilient material under the influence of a magnetic field provided by a number of separate magnets, a dispersed plurality of magnetically attractable particles in the material are concentrated in strings (11) extending between a lower (12) and upper (13) end of the wall. The cover is attached to connect to the strings affixed in the solidified wall at the upper end of the wall, and at the lower end of the wall the strings are placed in contact with a ground trace (82) formed around the component to be shielded, thereby forming a Faraday cage about the component. |
| US07955463B2 |
Method for connecting shell parts
A method for connecting shell parts (01, 02), which have been formed from sheet metal, for example by deep drawing. The shell parts (01, 02) may be any desired workpieces of a chassis part in the form of semifinished items or other components that are suitable for a folded seam connection. For this, the shell parts must have edges which are arranged lying one against the other in the connecting position. The method according includes first arranging the shell parts (1, 2) that are to be connected in a position envisaged for the shell parts (01, 02) in the connected state. Subsequently, the edge (03) of the first shell part (01) is folded around the edge (04) of the second shell part (02), so that a folded seam (06) is formed. After the folding operation, according to the invention the folded seam (06) is heated and subsequently once again pressed together. As a result, a positive and gap-free folded seam connection is achieved, with which the shell parts (01, 02) are permanently firmly connected. |
| US07955461B2 |
Method for manufacturing a three-dimensional forming portion
A mold having concave portions in a predetermined 3-D shape is prepared. A slurry is filled into the concave portions and the mold storing the slurry is then placed on an upper surface of a ceramic green sheet. A pressure inside the sheet is lowered through a pipe and a sintered porous metal support with the green sheet being heated by a hot plate. Accordingly, a solvent in the slurry is permeated into the fine pores of the green sheet and evaporated, thereby drying the 3-D forming portion without deformation. |
| US07955460B2 |
Movable barriers having transverse stiffeners and methods of making the same
A movable door panel having a front facer with opposed longitudinal edge profiles, rails secured to the longitudinal edge profiles, a rear facer secured to the rails, and foam disposed within an inner volume defined by the front facer, the rails and the rear facer is disclosed. Transverse stiffeners are disposed within the inner volume and the foam, and extend between the opposed rails. The door panel may be made by continuously providing the front facer with a rail secured thereto, continuously positioning transverse stiffeners on the front facer and extending between the metal rails, and continuously applying a foaming material on the front facer and the transverse stiffeners. The method concludes by bringing a rear facer into contact with the metal rails, and drawing the panel through a laminator. Hardware may then be attached to one or both of the facers and the stiffener. |
| US07955458B2 |
Staging system for automated window or door fabrication
A system that delivers window or door components to an assembly station where multiple components are assembled to form a multi-sided window or door frame or sash. A preparation station in proximity to the assembly station includes an alignment fixture for bringing multiple frame or sash components into alignment while a preceding frame or sash is being assembled at the assembly station. A conveyor moves aligned components of a next subsequent frame or sash to the assembly station while maintaining the alignment of said window components for clamping at the assembly station prior to assembly. One system is used to assemble vinyl door or window components by welding them together. |
| US07955455B2 |
Wave-like structures bonded to flat surfaces in unitized composites and methods for making same
A simplified manufacturing technique to directly form a unitized composite structure with at least one relatively flat surface and at least one sinuous element in an internally-bonded unitized composite is provided. A matrix of fibrous and or other materials is deposited in layers which are subsequently formed into corrugated or wave-like shapes and exposed to an activation step. At least one element is composed of a contractive material which shrinks when activated, such as by heating in an oven, to become relatively flat and optionally bonded to at least one other non-contractive layer which remains in a sinuous shape after the activation step. |
| US07955451B2 |
Energetic thin-film based reactive fragmentation weapons
A munition is described including a reactive fragment having an energetic material having a least one layer of a reducing metal or metal hydride and at least one layer of a metal oxide dispersed in a binder material. A method is also described including forming a energetic material; including combining the energetic material having a least one layer of a reducing metal or metal hydride and at least one layer of a metal oxide with a polymeric binder material to form a mixture; and shaping the mixture to form a reactive fragment. The munition may be in the form of a warhead, and the reactive fragment may be contained within a casing of the warhead. |
| US07955449B2 |
Process for inducing a two-way shape memory effect in a device formed of a shape memory alloy and a device made by the process
A process for inducing a two-way shape memory effect in a device forward of a shape memory alloy and a device made by the process are disclosed. The two-way memory effect occurs in the device in a temperature range of between about 5° C. to 25° C. wherein the training process is based on B2R phrase transformations. An R-phase formation or reorientation takes place in the device under stress whereupon the R-phase transforms into stress induced martenite. The device is subjected to thermocycling. |
| US07955438B2 |
Process for preparing alkali and heat stable polyols
The current invention relates to a continuous process for preparing heat an alkali stable polyol composition. Alkali is added to the feed of the anion exchange resin and is allowing running the resin battery in full service mode. |
| US07955433B2 |
Method and system for forming a silicon ingot using a low-grade silicon feedstock
Techniques for the formation of a silicon ingot using a low-grade silicon feedstock include forming within a crucible device a molten silicon from a low-grade silicon feedstock and performing a directional solidification of the molten silicon to form a silicon ingot within the crucible device. The directional solidification forms a generally solidified quantity of silicon and a generally molten quantity of silicon. The method and system include removing from the crucible device at least a portion of the generally molten quantity of silicon while retaining within the crucible device the generally solidified quantity of silicon. Controlling the directional solidification of the generally solidified quantity of silicon, while removing the more contaminated molten silicon, results in a silicon ingot possessing a generally higher grade of silicon than the low-grade silicon feedstock. |
| US07955432B2 |
Phase modulation device, phase modulation device fabrication method, crystallization apparatus, and crystallization method
A phase shifter which modulates the phase of incident light has a light-transmitting substrate such as a glass substrate, and a phase modulator such as a concavity and convexity pattern which is formed on the laser beam incident surface of the light-transmitting substrate and modules the phase of incident light. A light-shielding portion which shields light in the peripheral portion where the optical intensity distribution decreases of the phase modulator is formed on the laser beam incident surface or exit surface of the phase shifter, thereby shielding the peripheral light in the irradiation surface of the incident laser beam. |
| US07955431B2 |
Use of an organic sol of cerium in paints, particularly lacquers and varnishes
The invention relates to the use of an organic cerium sol in paints, in particular finishes or varnishes, to improve durability. More particularly, the sol used can be a sol comprising an amphiphilic acid system, an organic phase and particles in the form of agglomerates of crystallites with a d80, advantageously d90, of at most 5 nanometers, 90% (by weight) of agglomerates comprising 1 to 5, preferably 1 to 3 crystallites. The paints incorporating a cerium sol have improved water resistance properties and mechanical properties. |
| US07955430B2 |
Coating material
A coating material comprising a binding agent and at least one filler including particles having a size and/or surface roughness of about 100 μm or less, and a photocatalytically active agent. The binding agent may be at least partially decomposed by a photocatalytic action, and a microstructured, self-cleaning surface may be formed. |
| US07955428B2 |
Biodegradable composition, processed biodegradable article such as food container, and method of producing the same
The present invention provides a processed biodegradable article having excellent water resistance and rigidity, which can be used as a food container, and a biodegradable composition required to produce the processed biodegradable article comprising 15-75% by mass starch, 5-50% by mass protein, 3-50% by mass cellulose fiber, 0.5-20% by mass polyphenols such as pyrogallol and gallic acid, and 0-5% by mass sodium chloride. |
| US07955421B2 |
Degassing method and apparatus for separating gas from liquids and possibly solids
A degasser having a flapper opening including a hinge. The hinge may permit purging of any liquids and solids without regular human intervention. There may be a fixed opening at the base of the degasser, such that there is a constant emptying from the bottom of the tank. The separation of gas from liquid may be involved in applications pertaining to pulping and oxygen delignification. |
| US07955420B2 |
System for separating carbon dioxide and hydrocarbon gas from a produced gas
Produced natural gas containing carbon dioxide is dehydrated and chilled to liquefy the carbon dioxide and then fractionated to produce a waste stream of liquid carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide. Natural gas liquids may be first separated and removed before fractionation. After fractionation, the waste stream is pressurized and transmitted to a remote injection well for injection either for disposal of the waste stream and preferably to urge hydrocarbons toward the producing well. A hydrocarbon stream proceeds from fractionation to a methanol absorber system which removes carbon dioxide gas. The hydrocarbon stream is thereafter separated into at least hydrocarbon gas, nitrogen and helium. Some of the nitrogen is reintroduced into a fractionation tower to enhance the recovery of hydrocarbons. A methanol recovery system is provided to recover and reuse the methanol. The hydrocarbons are sold as natural gas and the helium is recovered and sold. Excess nitrogen is vented. |
| US07955419B2 |
System and method for treating landfill gas using landfill leachate
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to systems and methods for treating landfill gas using landfill leachate. In one embodiment of the present invention, a method includes receiving landfill leachate from at least one of a plurality of sources, and pretreating the landfill leachate to adjust at least one chemical property of at least one component of the landfill leachate. The leachate contacts landfill gas, so that at least one component of the landfill gas chemically reacts with at least one component of the landfill leachate to form a spent landfill leachate and a treated landfill gas. The method also includes recycling a first portion of the spent landfill leachate, recirculating a second portion of the spent landfill leachate to at least one of the plurality of sources, and subjecting the treated landfill gas to flare. |
| US07955415B2 |
Natural gas storage apparatus and method of use
There is described a storage system and associated methods having increased storage capacity for natural gas or methane. The systems and methods store a larger quantity of natural gas at similar pressures and volumes to conventional storage systems. The systems utilize readily available carbons treated to increase the amount of natural gas adsorbed to the carbon to store a high level of natural gas. |
| US07955414B2 |
Method and device for metal purification and separation of purified metal from metal mother liquid such as aluminium
A method and device for the purification and separation of purified metal from a metal mother liquid having a specific density and comprising one or more foreign element(s). The method includes: providing in a column device a starting material including metal crystals and a metal mother liquid including at least one foreign element; applying a temperature difference between a relatively hot zone at the upper end of the column and a relatively cool zone at the lower end of the column; a separation step wherein at least a part of the metal crystals is separated from the metal mother liquid by rising of the metal crystals to the upper surface of the metal mother liquid; and a further separation step wherein purified metal floating on the upper surface of the metal mother liquid is discharged from the column device. |
| US07955413B2 |
Method of producing transformation induced plasticity steels having improved castability
A method for producing Transformation Induced Plasticity (TRIP) steels comprises adding a degassing step to remove hydrogen and nitrogen prior to casting, resulting in a more fluid steel that exhibits improved castability. |
| US07955411B2 |
Low temperature bonding material comprising metal particles and bonding method
A bonding material comprising metal particles coated with an organic substance having carbon atoms of 2 to 8, wherein the metal particles comprises first portion of 100 nm or less, and a second portion larger than 100 nm but not larger than 100 μm, each of the portions having at least peak of a particle distribution, based on a volumetric base. The disclosure is further concerned with a bonding method using the bonding material. |
| US07955410B2 |
Method of recovering scrap metal
A method of removing iron from waste slag from a steel producing furnace that reduces the size of the waste slag to slag particles in a reduction zone. The slag particles are advanced along a conveyor in a first direction. A first and second magnet are positioned adjacent the conveyor to remove slag particles that have a sufficient iron content to be attached by the first and second magnets. A first removal belt is advanced between the first magnet and the conveyor to remove slag particles removed from the conveyor by the first magnet. A second removal belt is advanced between the second magnet and the conveyor to remove slag particles removed from the conveyor by the second magnet. A first and second separation screens are positioned along the conveyor to remove particles not removed by the first or second magnets that are small enough to pass through the first and second separation screens. |
| US07955408B2 |
Device with no emission for treatment of exhaust gas
This Invention relates to a kind of devices with no emission resulted for treatment of exhaust gas. The Device comprises a vessel having openings that serve only as inlet. At least two exchange sections are provided inside the vessel after inlet of exhaust gas. There is a gas chamber at each connection part between two sequential sections. The gas exchange chamber at the first gas exchange section has a through opening leading to outside atmosphere area, and at each one from the second to the last exchange section, there is a feedback pipe to connect to the inlet of the first stage of exchange section. With this configuration, on entering into the exchange section, exhaust gas will be ejected inwards and causes very strong entrainment, which makes the gas chamber become vacuum and sucks air with oxygen from atmosphere into gas chamber via the through opening to atmosphere. Formed high-pressure gas is burned furiously with combustible gas in the gas chamber at next stage, and the remaining exhaust gas is transferred into next exchange stage with high-speed revolution occurring on exhaust gas and momentum transfer. The higher negative pressure is, the more gas is consumed, and remaining gas not-consumed will be fed back to inlet of the Device and treated repeatedly. In this way, the exhaust gas will be burned entirely and no emission will occur. |
| US07955404B2 |
Dust collector
A dust collector includes a shell, an exit tube, an inner tube, a suction device, a first dust container, a bypass tube and a first dust bag. The shell defines a first receiving room therein. The exit tube defines an exit passage therein. The inner tube defines a connection passage which has a first opening and a second opening. The first opening communicates the first receiving room, and the second opening communicates the exit passage. The suction device provides the exit passage with a negative pressure. The first dust container defines a second receiving room therein. A mesh is disposed on a bottom surface of the first dust container to divide the second receiving room into a first chamber and a second chamber. The bypass tube defines a bypass passage therein, and it communicates the connection passage with the second chamber. The first dust bag is disposed in the first chamber. |
| US07955403B2 |
Systems and methods for producing substitute natural gas
Systems and methods for producing synthetic natural gas are provided. The method can include gasifying a carbonaceous feedstock within a gasifier to provide a raw syngas. The raw syngas can be cooled to provide a cooled raw syngas. The cooled raw syngas can be processed in a purification system to provide treated syngas. The purification system can include a flash gas separator in fluid communication with the gasifier and a saturator. The treated syngas can be converted to synthetic natural gas to provide steam, a methanation condensate, and a synthetic natural gas. The methanation condensate can be introduced to the flash gas separator. |
| US07955402B2 |
Method for recycling and exploitation of the glycerin obtained in the production of biodiesel
A method to exploit the glycerin obtained as a by-product of the industrial process to produce biodiesel inside or out of the industrial production unit, providing a reduction in the environmental liability that may be caused by an excess in the production of glycerin that cannot be exploited for industrial use. The referenced method uses recycling of the glycerin obtained through industrial process to produce biodiesel, using a process basically consisting of four stages: a) extracting glycerin produced as a by-product of the industrial process for producing biodiesel; b) hydrogenation of said n-propanol glycerin, c) recycling of the n-propanol thus obtained to be added to a mixture of alcohols; and d) transesterfication of the n-propanol mixture added to the alcohol mixture, together with raw material triglycerides from renewable sources in order to obtain biodiesel. The referenced recycling of the n-propanol stream provides a reduction in the amount of the alcohol mixture necessary for the industrial process to produce biodiesel, consequently reducing operational costs. |
| US07955392B2 |
Interspinous process devices and methods
The present application is directed to devices and methods for spacing and/or positioning spinous processes of vertebral members. The device may include a first wing to position on a first lateral side of spinous processes and a second wing to position on a second lateral side of spinous processes. An intermediate member extends between the wings and fits within the interspinous space. The device may be selectively adjustable from a first orientation with the second wing received by the intermediate member. This first orientation may include a reduced sized to facilitate insertion of the device with a lateral approach into the interspinous space. The device may also be moved to a second orientation with the wing deployed from the intermediate member. The second orientation may provide for the second wing to be positioned on the second side of the spinous process opposite from the first wing. The intermediate member may be positioned within the interspinous space to retain a predetermined distraction height. |
| US07955388B2 |
Orthopedic connector system
System, including methods, apparatus and components thereof, and kits, for connecting to bone using an anchor element configured to be anchored in bone and having a selectively bendable hinge region. In some embodiments, the system may connect the anchor element to connective tissue, a bridge member, and/or to another anchor element by bending the hinge region while the anchor element is disposed in bone, thereby connecting bone to the connective tissue or bridge member, and/or connecting bone members. |
| US07955387B2 |
Amorphous metal alloy medical devices
This invention provides a new class of medical devices and implants comprising amorphous metal alloys. The medical devices and implants may be temporary or permanent and may comprise other materials as well, such as polymers, ceramics, and conventional crystalline or polycrystalline metal alloys.Specifically, this invention provides implantable surgical fabrics comprising amorphous metal alloys. The presence of amorphous metal alloys in these fabrics can serve a variety of purposes, including structurally reinforcing the surgical fabric and/or imparting to the fabric the ability to shield against harmful radiation. The fabric may be used inside or outside the body during medical procedures. Further, the implantable surgical fabrics may be woven or non-woven fabrics. |
| US07955384B2 |
Coronary sinus approach for repair of mitral valve regurgitation
A device and method for treating cardiac valve regurgitation. The device includes a tubular member including a lumen there through and a locking mechanism and a compression device carried on the tubular member. The compression device is transformable to a compression configuration in response to axial displacement and is locked in the compression configuration by the locking mechanism. The method includes positioning the compression device adjacent a cardiac valve and applying an axial displacement to the compression device to transform the compression device into a compression configuration and locking the compression device in the compression configuration to apply a compressive force to the cardiac valve. |
| US07955383B2 |
Laminated implantable medical device having a metallic coating
A laminated stent encapsulated with a metal coating is provided. The metal coating may be a very thin metal coating. Portions of the metal coating may be removed such that the metal coating covers voids in the laminate, particularly in the area where the different layers of the laminated stent come together. The metal coating for the laminated stent may be provided by sputtering, such as vacuum deposition or ion beam sputtering, spraying, dipping, or other known methods. |
| US07955382B2 |
Endoprosthesis with adjustable surface features
Endoprostheses (e.g., stents) containing adjustable surfaces are disclosed. |
| US07955379B2 |
Stent and catheter assembly and method for treating bifurcations
An apparatus and method is provided for stenting bifurcated vessels. A proximal angled stent is configured for implanting in a side-branch vessel wherein the proximal angled stent has an angulated portion that corresponds to the angle formed by the intersection of the side-branch vessel and the main vessel so that all portions of the side-branch vessel at the bifurcation are covered by the proximal angled stent. A main-vessel stent is provided for implanting in the main vessel, wherein the main-vessel stent has an aperture or stent cell that aligns with the opening to the side-branch vessel to permit unobstructed blood flow between the main vessel and the side-branch vessel. Side-branch and main-vessel catheter assemblies are advanced over a pair of guide wires for delivering, appropriately orienting, and implanting the proximal angled stent and the apertured stent. |
| US07955378B2 |
Endoluminal device and system and method for detecting a change in pressure differential across an endoluminal device
An endoluminal device for deployment in a body lumen includes a radially expandable stent, a graft attached to the stent, and a plurality of indicator members affixed to the graft and adapted to form a normal pattern in response to a normal pressure differential and an abnormal pattern in response to an abnormal pressure differential across the graft. By forming different patterns at different pressure differentials, the indicator members enable the detection of a change in pressure which could be evidence of a leak. A system for detecting a change in pressure differential includes the endoluminal device and an imaging system for displaying the indicator members. A method for detecting a change in pressure includes the steps of identifying the normal pattern, implanting the device, imaging the indicator members, and comparing the imaged pattern with the normal pattern to determine whether the normal pressure or an abnormal pressure differential exists. |
| US07955373B2 |
Two-stage stent-graft and method of delivering same
A stent-graft is provided for defining a prosthetic fluid passage within a body lumen. The stent-graft includes a graft having a forward section, and a pilot stent located within the forward section of the graft. The pilot stent has an expanded diameter less than that of a lumen in which it is to be deployed to permit fluid flow within the lumen during deployment of the stent-graft. Means are provided for subsequently expanding the pilot stent and the graft to the full diameter of the lumen. |
| US07955371B2 |
System and method for stent deployment and infusion of a therapeutic agent into tissue adjacent to the stent ends
The invention provides a system and method for deploying a stent and infusing a therapeutic agent into tissue adjacent to the ends of the stent. The system comprises a catheter, an inflatable balloon, a stent, and a plurality of infusion elements. The catheter has an inflation lumen and at least one therapeutic agent delivery lumen. The balloon is disposed on the catheter and is in fluid communication with the inflation lumen. The stent is disposed on the balloon. The infusion elements are positioned adjacent to distal and proximal ends of the stent and are in fluid communication with at least one therapeutic agent delivery lumen. The infusion elements are inserted into a wall of a target region of a vessel responsive to inflation of the balloon. Further inflation of the balloon deploys the stent within the target region. |
| US07955370B2 |
Stent delivery system
A medical device includes a catheter having a catheter shaft, a sheath and a rolling membrane. The sheath is being disposed about the catheter shaft and is longitudinally moveable relative thereto. A distal portion of the sheath defines a stent retaining region. The sheath is moveable between an extended position and a retracted position, wherein in the extended position the retaining region is disposed about a stent receiving region of the catheter shaft, and in the retracted position the sheath is removed from the stent receiving region. End regions of the rolling membrane are respectively engaged to a distal end of the sheath and a portion of the shaft proximal to the stent receiving region respectively. |
| US07955369B2 |
Systems and methods for treating a hollow anatomical structure
A catheter includes multiple primary leads to deliver energy for ligating a hollow anatomical structure. Each of the primary leads includes a resistive element located at the working end of the catheter. Separation is maintained between the leads such that each lead can individually receive power. The catheter can include a lumen to accommodate a guide wire or to allow fluid delivery. Energy is applied until the diameter of the hollow anatomical structure is reduced to the point where occlusion is achieved. In one embodiment, a balloon is inflated to place the resistive elements into apposition with a hollow anatomical structure and to occlude the structure before the application of energy. The inflated balloon impairs blood flow and facilitates the infusion of saline, or medication, to the hollow anatomical structure in order to reduce the occurrence of coagulation and to improve the heating of the structure by the catheter. |
| US07955365B2 |
Closed loop catheter photopolymerization system and method of treating a vascular condition
A photopolymerization system includes a catheter having a proximal inflatable member, a distal inflatable member, a fluid delivery lumen, and a fluid drainage lumen. The fluid delivery lumen includes at least one delivery port and the fluid drainage lumen at least one drainage port. The ports are positioned between the proximal inflatable member and the distal inflatable member. A light emission member is positioned adjacent the catheter. In a method of treating a vascular condition, the catheter is delivered to a treatment site within a vessel. The first and second inflatable members are expanded to form an enclosed treatment space within the vessel. Fluid is delivered to the treatment space through fluid delivery lumen. Excess fluid is removed from the treatment space through the fluid drainage lumen. The treatment space is exposed to light. A portion of the fluid is polymerized within the treatment space upon exposure to the light. |
| US07955360B2 |
Method for using dynamic lordotic guard with movable extensions for creating an implantation space posteriorly in the lumbar spine
A lordotic guard and method for guiding a bone removal device to form an implantation space in the human spine and, if desired, for inserting a spinal implant into the implantation space. The guard has a body having a first portion and a second portion in pivotal relationship to one another proximate the leading end between an open position and a closed position. The first and second portions define an opening for providing a protected pathway to the disc space and the adjacent vertebral bodies. At least one disc space penetrating extension extends from the leading end of the body adapted for insertion at least in part into the disc space. First and second portions of the extension are in pivotal relationship to one another about an axis that passes through at least a portion of the pathway. |
| US07955357B2 |
Expandable rod system to treat scoliosis and method of using the same
Correction of a scoliotic curve in a spine comprises the steps of implanting an expanding rod isolated completely under the skin and attached to selected portions of the scoliotic curve of the spine at opposing ends of the rod; and producing a controlled force by means of expansion of the rod over at an extended time period under external control until a desire spinal curve is obtained. An incremental force is generated to stretch the scoliotic curve of the spine between the selected portions where attachment of the rod is defined. The controlled force is provided steadily for at least one month or alternatively 1-3 months. Multiple rods may be employed each associated with a different scoliotic curve of the spine or a different portion of the scoliotic curve. |
| US07955351B2 |
Rapid exchange catheters and embolic protection devices
A catheter comprising a housing portion defining an interior cavity and the housing portion comprising a housing member having an interior space dimensioned for housing an indwelling medical device. The elongated member comprises a lumen extending at least from an exit port to a distal port, the housing member is disposed within the lumen, and the lumen is dimensioned in the housing portion to receive a guidewire outside of the interior space of the housing member. A medical device for filtering emboli from blood flowing in a blood vessel of patient comprising an elongate support member and an elongate side branch member connected to the elongate support member. The filter element is attached to the elongate side branch member by a proximal filter element slider, and the elongate side branch member is adapted to maintain the filter element centered in the vessel. |
| US07955348B2 |
Lancing devices and methods
Lancing devices for use with removable lancets having sharp tips are provided. Embodiments include an interlock within the housing that blocks insertion of the lancet when the device is already cocked. |
| US07955346B2 |
Percutaneous methods for creating native tissue venous valves
Percutaneous methods of forming a venous valve from autologous tissue are disclosed. The methods include percutaneously creating one or two subintimal dissections for forming one or two flaps of intimal tissue. In one method, a puncture element is delivered by a catheter based delivery system to a treatment site where a new venous valve is to be created. The puncture element is deployed to gain access to a subintimal layer of the vein wall. A dilation balloon is than positioned and inflated within the subintimal layer to create a flap and corresponding pocket/sinus in the vein, which than acts as a one-way monocuspid valve in the manner of a native venous valve. In a similar manner, methods of forming new bicuspid venous valves by subintimal dissections are also disclosed. |
| US07955342B2 |
Device for connecting hollow organs, especially blood vessels, by surgery
The invention elates to a device (20) for connecting hollow organs (24, 25), which device comprises various elements that are held by holding devices. Said holding devices can be laterally displaced on a slide rail (21), rotated or detached and put on and their position can be secured if required. The traverse (31) is used as a stop for the axial alignment of the holding devices. The two holding devices (22, 23) carry clamping devices for retaining and, if required, clamping off the hollow organ ends (24, 25). The holding devices (26, 27) carry fittings (10, 11). The two hollow organ ends (24, 25) to be connected are pushed through the fittings to such an extent as to project over the fitting ends by a defined extent. The ends of the hollow organs are then turned up by the ends of the fittings using two turn-up devices (28, 29). The holding device (30) in the center holds an additional fitting (14) into which the two fittings (10, 11) are inserted with the turned-up hollow organ ends and secured. |
| US07955340B2 |
Apparatus and methods for forming and securing gastrointestinal tissue folds
Apparatus and methods are provided for forming a gastrointestinal tissue fold by engaging tissue at a first tissue contact point and moving the first tissue contact point from a position initially distal to, or in line with, a second tissue contact point to a position proximal of the second contact point, thereby forming the tissue fold, and extending an anchor assembly through the tissue fold from a vicinity of the second tissue contact point. Adjustable anchor assemblies; as well as anchor delivery systems, shape-lockable guides and methods for endoluminally performing medical procedures, such as gastric reduction, treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease, resection of lesions, and treatment of bleeding sites; are also provided. |
| US07955335B2 |
Osteochondral plug graft trimming device and method
A device for trimming an osteochondral plug graft to an implantable configuration includes a blade assembly terminating in a configured leading cutting blade and a plug grail housing comprising a substantially longitudinal holding sleeve having a bore and oriented complementarily to the longitudinal structure of the blade assembly to receive the longitudinal structure within the sleeve bore with the assembly cutting blade in close tolerance along an inner bore surface of the longitudinal housing structure. |
| US07955334B2 |
External fixation system
An orthopedic fixation ring for an external fixator has a ring or a ring-segment extending around a center axis. The ring comprises a first surface running perpendicular to the center axis, a second surface which is parallel to the first surface, and a plurality of spaced apart through openings running parallel to the center axis and extending through the fixation plate. The fixation plate has at least a third surface which is parallel to the first surface spaced outwardly thereof with respect to the center axis. A further set of through openings extends from the first surface to the third surface. A fourth surface may be provided which is axially displaced from the second surface with respect to the center axis. The ring preferably is circular or part-circular and is molded from carbon fiber reinforced PEEK. |
| US07955332B2 |
Mechanism for dividing tissue in a hemostat-style instrument
Open electrosurgical forceps for sealing tissue are provided which include first and second shaft portions pivotably associated with one another. Each shaft portion has a jaw member disposed at a distal end thereof. Each of the jaw members includes an electrically conductive sealing surface adapted to communicate electrosurgical energy through tissue held therebetween and a slot formed through the sealing surface thereof. The forceps includes a cutting mechanism operatively associated with the first and second jaw members. The cutting mechanism includes a cutting element disposed within the slot of the at least one jaw member, the cutting element being movable from a first position wherein the cutting element is retracted within the at least one jaw member and a second position in which the cutting element at least partially projects from a sealing surface of the at least one jaw member. |