Document Document Title
US08135567B2 Method of emulating machine tool behavior for programmable logic controller logical verification system
A method is provided of emulating and visualizing machine tool behavior for a programmable logic controller logical verification system for manufacturing a motor vehicle. The method includes the steps of constructing a mechanical model. The method also includes the steps of viewing motion of the mechanical model in a motion viewer and determining whether the motion of the mechanical model is acceptable. The method further includes the steps of replicating the motion previously defined with PLC code if the motion of the mechanical model was acceptable and using the accepted motion of the mechanical model to compare the behavior of the PLC code relative to the accepted motion.
US08135565B2 Method and system for transferring data between a discrete event environment and an external environment
In one embodiment, a model of a system includes one or more event-driven blocks and one or more time-driven blocks. The model is executed in part by receiving an entity from a event-driven block, and in response to receiving the entity, generating a time-varying data signal descriptive of the entity. The data signal is passed to one or more time-driven blocks, which generate one or more results at least in part from the data signal, and display at least some of the one or more results.
US08135558B2 Automated simulation testbench generation for serializer/deserializer datapath systems
Embodiments herein present a method for automated simulation testbench generation for serializer/deserializer datapath systems. The method provides a database of transactors for generating and checking data within the datapath system, wherein the transactors are adaptable to arbitrary configurations of the datapath system. The database is provided with a single set of transactors per core. Next, the method automatically selects one set of transactors from the database for inclusion into the simulation testbenches. Following this, the method maps the first datapath and the second datapath through the datapath system by interconnecting the selected set of the transactors with the datapath system. The method further comprises setting control pins on the cores to facilitate propagation of the data through the cores of the datapath system. Subsequently, the control pins are traced to input ports and control registers.
US08135556B2 Methods and systems for off-line control for simulation of coupled hybrid dynamic systems
Systems and methods are provided for controlling the simulation of a coupled hybrid dynamic system. A physical test rig configured to drive the physical structure component of the system and to generate a test rig response as a result of applying a test rig drive signal. A processor is configured with a virtual model of the system. The processor receives the test rig response and generates a model response of the system based on the received test rig response and a virtual drive input. The system is driven with a random input. The processor compares the test rig response with the model response, the difference being used to form a system dynamic response model for generating the test drive signal. An inverse of the system dynamic response model is used to iteratively reduce the difference between the model response and the test rig response below a defined threshold.
US08135554B1 Probe configuration data protocol and transmission method
Transmission of probe configuration data is initiated upon recognition by the probe of a prescribed condition. Probe configuration data protocol includes a data frame, subdivided into a desired number of time slots. Unlike measurement data protocol, where inter-pulse pair timing within a slot varies based on a magnet position or temperature sensor resistance, configuration data protocol in accordance with the invention uses fixed inter-pulse timing to represent the various states of digital data. In such manner, at least a portion of the time slots making up the particular data frame can be used for containing data sent from the probe, and which can then be interpreted by the receiving processing device as at least one bit of binary code allocated to each individual slot of the portion of time slots.
US08135549B2 Method and device for specific absorption rate measurement of an electric field
A method and device for calculating the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) caused in a body by the electric field of a wireless communications device. The method involves using a model of a body, wherein the device is placed in proximity to the model and the electric field is measured at discrete points, including measuring the magnitude of the electric field at points of a first and a second surface of the model. By means of the measured magnitudes, the phase at said points is determined, such that the complex electric field at said points is determined. The complex electric field at said points is then used to determine the complex electric field in the model of the body. The complex electric field is used in order to calculate the SAR value caused by the device.
US08135548B2 Method, system and computer program product for real-time detection of sensitivity decline in analyte sensors
A computer implemented method for receiving a plurality of analyte sensor related signals, determining a probability of signal attenuation associated with the received plurality of analyte sensor related signals, verifying the presence of signal attenuation when the determined probability exceeds a predetermined threshold level, and generating a first output signal associated with the verification of the presence of signal attenuation is provided. Also provided are systems and kits.
US08135547B2 Detection apparatus and method utilizing membranes and ratio of transmembrane pressures
The failure of an upstream filtration membrane, or the presence of a foulant in a fluid is detected using a membrane-based detector. The fluid or an effluent from the filtration membrane is directed to permeate through a first permeable membrane, and from the first membrane to permeate through a second permeable membrane. A ratio between (P1-P2) and (P2-P3) is determined, where P1 is a first pressure at a feed side of the first membrane, P2 is a second pressure between the first and second membranes, and P3 is a third pressure at a permeate side of the second membrane. The ratio is correlated with the failure of the filtration membrane, or with the presence of the foulant.
US08135541B2 Wellbore tracking
Wellbore tracking by developing a wellbore deviation survey, including collecting wellbore deformation data using a caliper at each of a plurality of depths within the wellbore, collecting wellbore deviation data using a tiltmeter at ones of the plurality of depths, determining simulated wellbore deformation and deviation data using the oriented wellbore deformation data, and developing a wellbore deviation survey by calibrating the wellbore deviation data based on the oriented wellbore deviation data.
US08135539B2 Presenting a travel route in a ground-based vehicle
Techniques are provided for displaying a map for a route in a ground-based vehicle. The map includes a variable road network map showing finer detail for geographic features near the route and less detail for geographic features farther from the route. The map is displayed based on the travel direction of the ground-based vehicle.
US08135538B2 Navigation system
A portable navigation device is set out for calculating fuel related parameters and returning related data to the user of the device. The related data may include fuel cost of a particular calculated route. Additional data may include particular displays of information including a theoretical calculated volumetric amount of fuel used by a vehicle in traveling along a calculated route before, during or after completion of travel. Other displayed data includes a theoretical calculated financial cost of fuel used by the vehicle in traveling along the calculated route before, during or after completion of travel. Still further displayed data may include an optimal calculated route chosen from many possible calculated routes, the optimization occurring on account of the relative fuel cost of each of the calculated routes.
US08135537B2 Route data base generation procedures and systems, processes and products relating thereto
A route data base generating system avoids GPS satellite signals sources for land based vehicle azimuth and heading determinations in areas where reception of the satellite signals is unavailable or impaired and relies on vehicle part movements that are equatable to the heading and azimuth changes of the vehicle for determining such vehicle orientations. Part movements equatable to the heading changes are found in the vehicle wheel assemblies. A route data base founded on interconnecting linear route segments that are arranged in and end-to-end serial order is advocated and wherein the angular deviation between connecting segments in the order is predetermined. Various uses of the generating systems and related procedures are advocated for both on-the-road and off-road usage.
US08135532B2 Method for controlling output power of an energy storage device in a powertrain system
A method for controlling a powertrain system includes monitoring a state-of-charge of the energy storage device and determining a first set of electric power limits and a second set of electric power limits based on the state-of-charge of the energy storage device. The method further includes providing a power range for opportunity charging and discharging of the energy storage device based on the first set of electric power limits. The method further includes providing a power range for controlling output power of the energy storage device based on the second set of electric power limits.
US08135531B2 Predictive vehicle controller
Due to time delays, vehicle speed may become difficult to control. A predictive speed controller is configured to receive a desired speed request for a vehicle and simulate vehicle responses according to the desired speed request. A compensation value is derived from the simulated vehicle responses that compensates for the time delays of the vehicle. The actual speed of the vehicle is then controlled according to the compensation value.
US08135528B2 Vehicle control device
An actual vehicle actuator operation control input and a model operation control input are determined by an FB distribution law such that the difference between a reference state amount determined in a vehicle model and an actual state amount of an actual vehicle approximates zero, and then an actuator device of the actual vehicle and the vehicle model are operated on the basis of the control inputs. The value of a parameter of the vehicle model set according to an actual vehicle motional state such that the attenuation property of a reference state amount when a drive manipulated variable is changed is higher than the attenuation property of an actual state amount. Accordingly, the actual vehicle actuator device is properly controlled independently of an actual vehicle motional state such that a state amount related to an actual vehicle motion approximates a vehicle state amount on a dynamic characteristic model.
US08135526B2 Method for controlling regenerative braking and friction braking
A vehicle includes a powertrain system and a friction braking system communicating tractive torque with a driveline, the powertrain system including a torque machine, and an energy storage device connected to the torque machine, said torque machine communicating tractive torque with the driveline. A method for controlling regenerative braking and friction braking includes monitoring a vehicle operating point, determining a braking torque request, determining a regenerative braking motor torque ratio based upon the vehicle operating point wherein the regenerative braking motor torque ratio is non-linearly dependent on the vehicle operating point, and actuating the friction brake based upon the regenerative braking motor torque ratio and the braking torque request.
US08135523B2 Method for controlling a friction clutch
A method is proposed in which the distance sensor of a friction clutch operated automatically by a clutch actuator is calibrated in the disengaged state, wherein if the calibration is lost the friction clutch is slowly engaged until the friction clutch is in an engaged state, and when the friction clutch is completely engaged the distance sensor is recalibrated.
US08135521B2 Control device for automatic transmission
A control device for an automatic transmission capable of operating in an automatic shift mode in which a gear ratio is automatically selected based on driving conditions of a vehicle, and also capable of operating in a manual shift mode in which the gear ratio is changed based on an upshift command or a downshift command by manual operation of a manual operation device, the control device includes a manual shift control unit that changes and sets the gear ratio after downshift depending on a degree of requirement for deceleration based on a driving operation when the downshift command has been operated by the manual operation device in the manual shift mode, and performs the downshift to the gear ratio that has been changed and set.
US08135520B2 Gear clash logic
A system and method for selectively engaging and disengaging auxiliary equipment to avoid gear clash in a vehicle is disclosed. The system includes a transmission, a transfer case, and a transmission controller. The transmission has a plurality of gears for establishing a plurality of gear ratios. The transfer case is coupled to the transmission by an output shaft. The transmission controller is in communication with a plurality of control devices for controlling the operation of the transmission. The controller includes control logic for controlling the engagement and disengagement of the auxiliary equipment. The control logic has a first control logic for determining whether an operator has actuated a selector switch, a second control logic for actuating a torque transmitting device to engage or disengage the auxiliary equipment and avoid gear clash, a third logic for monitoring the engagement or disengagement of the auxiliary equipment, and a fourth control logic determining whether the auxiliary equipment has been engaged or disengaged.
US08135516B2 Steering control apparatus for vehicle and steering control method
A method for controlling a steering device with steering power support means for a motor vehicle with at least one steerable road wheel, where the steering device may include a steering shaft with a first end to adopt a steering wheel, a control device controlling said power support means, sensing means detecting steering shaft torque introduced in said steering shaft, and means to determine a hands-off situation in which the driver does not introduce a torque into said steering shaft, wherein the steering power support means support the driver on the basis of a driver demand introduced into the steering shaft, may comprise determining a steering wheel torque on basis of the steering shaft torque; determining a time derivative of the detected steering wheel torque; if the absolute value of the steering wheel torque is lower than a threshold torque limit and if the absolute value of the derivative of steering wheel torque is lower than a threshold derivative torque limit, a counter is increased by one count; if the absolute value of the steering wheel torque is higher or equal than a threshold torque limit, or/and if the absolute value of the derivative of steering wheel torque is higher or equal than a threshold derivative torque limit−, said counter is decreased by one count; and if said counter has a value equal to or higher than a threshold count limit the hands-off state is determined.
US08135515B2 Electronic control apparatus and method for a steering system
An electronic control apparatus has a microcomputer including a first CPU and a second CPU configured to perform calculation processing and control processing for a vehicle control device such as a variable gear ratio steering device. The first CPU and the second CPU calculate temporary detection values of an operation amount of an actuator based on a detection signal of a sensor, respectively. The temporary detection values are compared to determine whether the vehicle control device is controllable based on the detection signal of the sensor. Thus, the electronic control apparatus is reduced in size, and calculation results are monitored each other within one microcomputer.
US08135511B2 Electronic control system, electronic control unit and associated methodology of adapting a vehicle system based on visually detected vehicle occupant information
An electronic control system, electronic control unit and an associated methodology for adapting a vehicle system are provided. A visual sensor detects a three dimensional profile of an occupant of a vehicle. An electronic control unit determines at least one of three dimensional locations and orientations of a plurality of body parts of the occupant of the vehicle, a body-volume of the occupant of the vehicle and body dynamics of the occupant of the vehicle based on the three dimensional profile detected by the visual sensor. The electronic control unit adapts a vehicle system based on at least one of the determined three dimensional locations and orientations, the determined body-volume and the determined body dynamics.
US08135510B2 On-board emergency reporting apparatus
An on-board emergency reporting apparatus includes a collision detection sensor, an airbag inflator for inflating an airbag in the event of collision detection, an airbag deflator for deflating the inflated airbag, a camera for capturing an image of an occupant seated on a seat provided with the airbag, a controller for transmitting the captured image to an emergency reporting center through a communication device, and a deflation sensor for detecting whether the volume of the inflated airbag is reduced to a predetermined threshold value. The controller causes the camera to start capturing upon detection of a reduction in the volume of the inflated airbag to the predetermined threshold value.
US08135507B2 Driver condition estimation apparatus, server, driver information collecting apparatus, and driver condition estimation system
A driver condition estimation apparatus 5 estimates condition of a driver. The driver condition estimation apparatus 5 includes a driver condition estimating unit 50a for estimating the condition of the driver before the driver starts driving; and a control variable changing unit 50b for changing control variables of in-vehicle devices based on the condition of the driver estimated by the driver condition estimating unit 50a.
US08135504B2 Navigational planning and display method for the sailor's dilemma when heading upwind
A method is disclosed that resolves a long-standing seafaring problem of how close to the wind to sail. Sailboats need a convenient way to determine the optimal heading to minimize the Tacking Time to Destination (TTD). Unlike Velocity Made Good (VMG), the method disclosed here allows route planning before the trip, predicts travel time on different points of sail, allows comparison of the optimal tacking routes, and also plots the different routes so that it is inherently obvious that a particular tacking angle is longer and more off-course but will arrive sooner because of the speed on that heading. These principles can be implemented with manual dials that define the distance and speed, to calculate the relative or actual travel time on a leg without using electronics. Software is also described that visually illustrates the current and optimal headings by calculating Tacking Time to Destination before departure.
US08135501B2 Apparatuses and methods for displaying and receiving tactical and strategic flight guidance information
Methods and apparatuses for displaying and receiving tactical and strategic flight guidance information are disclosed. A method in accordance with one aspect of the invention includes displaying at least one first indicator to an operator of the aircraft, with a first indicator corresponding to a first instruction input by the operator for directing a first aircraft behavior and implemented upon receiving an activation instruction from the operator. At least one second indicator corresponding to a second instruction for directing a second aircraft behavior at least proximately the same as the first aircraft behavior is displayed, with the at least one second instruction to be automatically implemented at a future time. The at least one second indicator is at least approximately the same as the at least one first indicator. Indicators can be hierarchically organized to simplify presentation and reduce pilot training time.
US08135491B2 Method, system and apparatus for on-demand integrated adaptive control of machining operations
A method, system, and apparatus for an adaptive controller for controlling a machining operation on a workpiece by a machining tool are provided. The system includes a sensor for measuring a present value of a spindle load on a spindle drive, and an adaptive controller for comparing the present value of the spindle load to a present value of a target spindle load. The adaptive controller includes a computing element configured to determine a first feed rate value of a machining tool, and a number generator configured to generate a first feed rate dither adjustment value used for adding noise to the first feed rate value. The adaptive controller is configured to control the feed rate of the machining tool relative to the workpiece to maintain the present value of the spindle load approximately equal to the present value of the target spindle load using one or more of the first feed rate value, the first feed rate dither adjustment value, and the second feed rate dither adjustment value.
US08135489B2 Knit simulation device, knit simulation method, and program thereof
The presence or absence of putting round of a yarn is detected according to whether carriers are positioned on a near side or a far side and according to the relationship of connection between loops, and the result is displayed on a monitor. On the monitor, for example, the degree of the deformation of the yarn is changed according to the presence or absence of putting round when the yarn is touched, or a color is changed according to the presence or absence of putting round. The presence or absence of putting round of the yarn can be detected and then displayed to a user.
US08135487B2 Temperature setting method and apparatus for a thermal processing plate
A temperature setting method of the present invention includes the steps of: measuring states of an etching pattern within the substrate for a substrate for which a series of photolithography processing including thermal processing and an etching treatment thereafter have been finished; calculating temperature correction values for regions of a thermal processing plate from measurement result of the states of the etching pattern within the substrate using a function between correction amounts for the states of the etching pattern and the temperature correction values for the thermal processing plate; and setting the temperature for each of the regions of the thermal processing plate by each of the calculated temperature correction values.
US08135486B2 Substrate position determining method and substrate position detecting method
Even in case that a wafer is so greatly deviated that a peripheral portion of the wafer cannot be detected, position determination of the wafer can be performed without inflicting a damage on the wafer. The wafer peripheral portion, which is a target, is detected based on output images from a plurality of imaging units disposed along a peripheral portion shape of the wafer (step S210), and a wafer position deviation correcting step (step S220) or a rough correcting step (step 230) is performed according to the number of the imaging units capable of detecting the wafer peripheral portion. In case that the wafer peripheral portion cannot be detected by all the imaging units, a wafer position adjusting step (step 240) for moving the wafer is performed in a position adjusting direction acquired by a combination of the output images by each imaging unit.
US08135483B2 Editing device and audio signal processing device
An editing device that edits a configuration of signal processing to be performed in a mixer engine having a programmable signal processor stores, for each of a plurality of mixer engines, resource data indicating a signal processing resource of a DSP of the mixer engine, accepts a selection of mixer engine which executes signal processing based on the edited configuration, assigns a resource of the DSP to a component and wire in the signal processing to be executed in accordance with the resource data of the mixer engine, with respect to each of all the selected mixer engines, and adds data indicating that the assignment is performed in accordance with the resource data of which model and data indicating an assignment result regarding each model to data indicating the configuration of signal processing.
US08135479B2 Sensor assemblies for implantable medical electrical leads
A sensor assembly, which may be incorporated by a medical electrical lead, includes an insulative body, formed from a biocompatible plastic, and a sensor mounted on a mounting surface of the insulative body. The mounting surface extends distally from a proximal portion of the insulative body in which first and second conductive inserts extend, being spaced apart and isolated from one another. The sensor is coupled to each of the first and second conductive inserts, and the first conductive insert includes a conductor-coupling end extending proximally from the proximal portion of the insulative body. The sensor assembly may further include an electrode extending around the sensor and the insulative body, wherein the electrode includes an aperture approximately aligned with an active surface of the sensor to expose the active surface. A mounting platform assembly for the sensor assembly may include the conductive inserts and the insulative body.
US08135478B2 Peltier unidirectional and selective nerve stimulation
Apparatus is provided including an assembly (22) and a control unit (36). The assembly (22) includes a housing (34) configured to be applied to a nerve (20) of a subject, and at least one cathode (30) and at least one Peltier cooler (32), which are fixed to the housing (34). The control unit (36) is configured to drive the cathode (30) to apply an activating current to the nerve (20) that generates action potentials traveling in first and second directions (38 and 40) in the nerve (20), and the Peltier cooler (32) to cool the nerve (20) sufficiently to block propagation of at least a portion of the cathode-generated action potentials traveling in the second direction (40). Other embodiments are also described.
US08135477B2 Neurostimulation utilizing a tree configuration
A neurostimulator conduit introducer is provided. The neurostimulator conduit introducer includes a central lead having a proximal end and a distal end; one or more secondary leads each having a proximal end and a distal end; and a biocompatible conduit enclosing the central lead and the one or more secondary leads, wherein the biocompatible conduit is moveable along the central lead and the one or more secondary leads. Methods of using the neurostimulator conduit introducer and kits including the neurostimulator conduit introducer are also provided.
US08135476B2 Implantable medical electrical stimulation lead fixation method and apparatus
An implantable medical electrical lead for electrical stimulation of body tissue that includes at least one shape memory polymer portion that has a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein the second configuration is obtained upon exposure of the shape memory polymer portion to a transition stimulus, and wherein the second configuration of the modifiable portion exhibits a greater resistance to movement of the lead within the body tissue than does the first configuration; and at least one electrode configured to provide electrical stimulation of body tissue, wherein the lead has a proximal end and a distal end. Systems and kits as well as methods of utilizing the leads of the invention are also included.
US08135474B1 Cochlear implant for an implantable cochlear stimulation system and method of assembly
A cochlear implant for a cochlear stimulation system and method of assembling the implant comprising an implantable sealed housing comprising a metal feedthrough case and a metal bottom cover and containing cochlea stimulation circuitry, the feedthrough case comprising silicone enclosed feedthrough pins for connecting an electrical lead of a cochlear electrode to the stimulation circuitry, and a moisture absorbing material comprising calcium oxide secured within the housing and sufficient in quantity to absorb moisture released by the circuitry materials and leaking into the feedthrough case at leak rates of about 1×10−7 atm cc/s to maintain the cochlear implant within acceptable internal moisture limits for at least about 60 years.
US08135470B2 Energy balance therapy for obesity management
Techniques are described that allow an implantable device to sense gastric data and activity data from a patient, and estimate the patient's amount of energy consumed and energy expended based on the sensed data. A system provides feedback to the patient, a family member, or a doctor about the patient's energy consumed, energy expended, and net energy. The data may be provided in table or graphical format, and may show daily or weekly energy balance data or may show a trend of the daily or weekly energy data. The patient may receive feedback by an implanted alert module that provides and audio alert or a vibration alert. In addition, data acquired by the system may be used to adjust the patient's stimulation therapy parameters.
US08135466B2 Prophylactic bactericidal implant
A medical implant system is described for inhibiting infection associated with a joint prosthesis implant. An inventive system includes an implant body made of a biocompatible material which has a metal component disposed on an external surface of the implant body. A current is allowed to flow to the metal component, stimulating release of metal ions toxic to microbes, such as bacteria, protozoa, fungi, and viruses. One detailed system is completely surgically implantable in the patient such that no part of the system is external to the patient while the system is in use. In addition, externally controlled devices are provided which allow for modulation of implanted components.
US08135463B2 Algorithm for the automatic determination of optimal AV and VV intervals
Methods and devices for determining optimal Atrial to Ventricular (AV) pacing intervals and Ventricular to Ventricular (VV) delay intervals in order to optimize cardiac output. Impedance, preferably sub-threshold impedance, is measured across the heart at selected cardiac cycle times as a measure of chamber expansion or contraction. One embodiment measures impedance over a long AV interval to obtain the minimum impedance, indicative of maximum ventricular expansion, in order to set the AV interval. Another embodiment measures impedance change over a cycle and varies the AV pace interval in a binary search to converge on the AV interval causing maximum impedance change indicative of maximum ventricular output. Another method varies the right ventricle to left ventricle (VV) interval to converge on an impedance maximum indicative of minimum cardiac volume at end systole. Another embodiment varies the VV interval to maximize impedance change.
US08135462B2 Pulse detection using patient physiological signals
The presence of a cardiac pulse in a patient is determined by evaluating physiological signals in the patient. In one embodiment, a medical device evaluates optical characteristics of light transmitted into a patient to ascertain physiological signals, such as pulsatile changes in general blood volume proximate a light detector module. Using these features, the medical device determines whether a cardiac pulse is present in the patient. The medical device may also be configured to report whether the patient is in a VF, VT, asystole, or PEA condition, in addition to being in a pulseless condition, and prompt different therapies, such as chest compressions, rescue breathing, defibrillation, and PEA-specific electrotherapy, depending on the analysis of the physiological signals. Auto-capture of a cardiac pulse using pacing stimuli is further provided.
US08135461B2 Patient controlled atrial shock therapy
An implanted cardiac device detects an atrial arrhythmia and provides periodically updated atrial arrhythmia status as long as the arrhythmia is ongoing. A patient may request an indication of ongoing atrial arrhythmia status from external to the patient using a patient activator. The patient activator may include a magnet for closing a reed switch in the implanted device to provide the request or may provide the request over a telemetry link to the implanted device. The implanted device may provide the requested atrial arrhythmia status and other information in the form of an audible tone produced by the implanted device or as a message telemetered from the implanted device to the patient activator. The patient activator may include a tone detector and display for providing a visual indication of the atrial arrhythmia status indication. The magnet activator may also be employed to request or withhold atrial shock therapy.
US08135460B2 Medical device with resuscitation prompts depending on elapsed time
Methods and apparatus are provided for determining a defibrillation treatment protocol in an external defibrillator using a measurement of elapsed time. The present invention provides a defibrillator with a timer function. Upon activation of the defibrillator, an internal timer begins to run. By closely associating the activation of the defibrillator with the onset of the patient's attack, and by making allowances for inherent time differences between these events, the timer provides a measure of the elapsed time between the onset of the patient's emergency and the presentation of the defibrillator at the patient's side. Using this measure of elapsed time, the defibrillator determines an appropriate treatment therapy, such as CPR or defibrillation therapy.
US08135449B2 Imaging of oxygen by phosphorescence quenching
A method of real-time imaging of dissolved oxygen concentration, comprising adding an oxygen-quenched phosphorescent composition to a sample, exciting phosphorescence in the composition by illuminating the sample with pulses of light, detecting phosphorescence intensity as a function of position in the sample at first and second times following exciting pulses of light, determining oxygen concentration from the phosphorescence detected at the first and second times, generating an image of the oxygen concentration as a function of position, and repeating the exciting, detecting, determining, and image generating steps to produce a series of images showing the oxygen concentration varying over time.
US08135448B2 Systems and methods to assess one or more body fluid metrics
The present disclosure provides systems, devices, and/or methods for assessing body fluid-related metrics and/or changes therein. The disclosure further provides systems, devices, and/or methods for correlating body fluid-related metrics in a particular tissue with the corresponding whole-body metric. The disclosure also provides, systems, devices, and/or methods for assessment of such metrics to facilitate diagnosis and/or therapeutic interventions related to maintaining and/or restoring body fluid balance.
US08135445B2 Periodic ranging in a wireless access system for mobile station in sleep mode
A method of performing a ranging process between a base station and a mobile station in sleep mode in a wireless access system, wherein the base station provides the mobile station with an initial notification of a periodic ranging time that occurs during a sleep time interval and during which the mobile station is to perform the ranging process, the initial notification included in a first message, the first message indicating whether the mobile station should terminate sleep mode to receive downlink data, and wherein the base station provides the mobile station with subsequent notifications of periodic ranging times that occur during the sleep time interval, the subsequent notifications indicated in a second message, the second message transmitted to the mobile station as part of the ranging process such that the mobile station performs a plurality of ranging processes within the sleep time interval.
US08135443B2 Portable device with priority based power savings control and method thereof
A portable device includes a controller that is responsive to a remaining power capacity of the battery, and a power consumption level of the portable device and based on user prioritized functional processing capability features, dynamically controls functional processing capability features of the device. The controller provides power for a higher priority feature at the expense of a lower priority functional processing capability feature consistent with the user prioritized functional processing capability features. A wireless portable device is also disclosed that includes a wireless signal strength determinator that determines a received signal strength of the wireless device and a controller that adjusts the functional processing capability feature of the wireless device based on the determined received signal strength and based on battery capacity information. In this way, received signal strength information is used as a further input to determine how to best adjust functional processing capability features of the device.
US08135441B2 Mobile terminal having dual display unit and method of changing display screen using the same
A mobile terminal having a dual display unit and a method of changing a display screen using the same are disclosed. The mobile terminal includes a main body, a front display unit for providing a multimedia mode, a rear display unit for providing a normal mode, and a screen control module for controlling to turn off the rear display unit and turn on the front display unit, and to display a multimedia execution screen in the front display unit. The method of changing a display screen of the mobile terminal having additional multimedia functions provides an optimum multimedia environment and improves user convenience and effectiveness of the mobile terminal by flexibly supporting a multimedia function to be executed according to a screen state of the rear display unit.
US08135440B2 System for using mobile communication terminal as pointer and method and medium thereof
A system for using a mobile communication terminal as a pointer and a method and medium thereof are disclosed, in which information displayed on a head mounted display (HMD) can be controlled by using the mobile communication terminal as the pointer. The system includes a head mounted display device receiving an input of an image of a background having a marker, and the mobile communication terminal searching for the position of the marker by detecting the marker from the image of the background having the marker transmitted from the head mounted display device, and providing the pointer to the searched position. The head mounted display device displays the pointer provided by the mobile communication terminal.
US08135438B2 Managing call control in computer telephone interface (CTI) system
A method and apparatus to manage call control in a Computer Telephone Interface (CTI) system includes: a computer terminal to generate a call control message including call control identification information using a CTI application program in response to a call control command from a user, and transmitting the generated call control message; wireless terminals to perform call control upon receipt of the call control message; and an exchange to receive the call control message from the computer terminal, and to maintain the call control message generated by the computer terminal unchanged and to interface it to a corresponding one of the wireless terminals in response to the call control identification information being detected from the received call control message.
US08135432B2 Method and system for managing a communication link in a communication network
A method and apparatus for managing a communication link in a communication network are provided. A continuous actuation button is configured to initiate a communication link between communication devices. The communication link is initiated when a force applied on the continuous actuation button exceeds a first force threshold. The force applied on the continuous actuation button is sampled at periodic time intervals. A release event of the continuous actuation button is detected when the force applied on the continuous actuation button reaches a second force threshold. The communication link is maintained for a predefined period of time after detecting the release event based on whether the sampled force indicates that the release event was unintentional. The predefined period of time is sufficient to allow a user to take action to avoid disconnection if undesired.
US08135431B2 Multi-dimensional adaptive transmission technique
Method and apparatus for dynamically optimizing the transmission level of each remote terminal in a satellite-based communication network. Each remote terminal maintains quasi-error-free communication at the highest efficiency level available under changing link conditions and network configurations, without requiring the reservation of substantial power margins, which results in a much more efficient satellite network.
US08135418B2 Method and base station for managing calls in wireless communication networks
A method for managing a plurality of call origination requests is provided. The method includes receiving (204) the plurality of call origination requests from a plurality of communication devices. Further, the method includes queuing (206) the plurality of call origination requests, based on a predefined policy, when a base station is operating in a congestion mode. Furthermore, the method includes processing (208) each call origination request of the plurality of call origination requests, based on the queued plurality of call origination requests.
US08135410B2 Method and apparatus for communicating with one of plural devices associated with a single telephone number during a disaster and disaster recovery
A system for (and a method of) selectively establishing communication with one of plural devices associated with a single telephone number during a disaster or disaster recovery period. The method can offer disaster recovery to an enterprise depending upon its size, financial well-being and desired capabilities. For example, the enterprise has the option of owning or renting all of the equipment required so that it may perform disaster recovery on its own and with little outside intervention. The enterprise may own some or none of the necessary equipment and contract with a service bureau so that the bureau provides recovery equipment when needed. The system also provides for roll call, priority preemption and seamless switching services to and from circuit and packet communication devices.
US08135408B2 User equipment and method used in user equipment
Disclosed user equipment performs intermittent reception in a different frequency from a frequency of a serving cell belonging to a current radio access network or in a different radio access network from the current radio access network. The user equipment includes a receiving unit for receiving and demodulating a control signal and a cell search unit for performing a cell search in a specified frequency. When a release signal is received, the user equipment switches to a preliminary intermittent reception mode where the receiving unit intermittently receives the control signal in the serving cell and the cell search unit performs the cell search in the different frequency or the different radio access network between intermittent reception timings. Then, the user equipment switches to a normal intermittent reception mode where the receiving unit intermittently receives the control signal in the different frequency or the different radio access network.
US08135406B2 Methods and apparatus for use in controlling the selection of communication networks while connected in a generic access network
A mobile device maintains a communication link with a radio access network (RAN) which is part of a generic access network (GAN). The mobile device maintains, via the GAN, a serivce connection for a voice and/or data service with a core network of a visited Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN). The mobile device operates to set and run a timer and, in response to an expiration of the timer, the mobile device sends, to a gateway controller via the RAN, a service conneciton request for a service connection with a core network of a home PLMN of the mobile device. If the service connection request is accepted, the mobile device operates to establish and maintain, via the GAN, a service connection with the core network of the home PLMN for communications.
US08135404B2 Apparatus, system, and methods for handling attach procedure in mobile communication system
A user equipment for handling an attach procedure with a service network is provided. The user equipment comprises a wireless module transmitting an attach request message to the service network and receiving an attach accept message replied to the attach request message from the service network, and a controller determining whether to accept the attach accept message, sending an attach complete message, via the wireless module, to the service network in response to the attach accept message being accepted, and resending the attach request message, via the wireless module, to the service network in response to the attach accept message not being accepted.
US08135400B2 Method and system for device discovery in wireless communication
The present invention provides a method and a system for device discovery in wireless communication. One implementation involves scanning one or more wireless channels to discover a partner wireless station for a new transmission, by detecting peak energy and beacons on each scanned channel. If a beacon is not detected, then selecting the clearest channel among the scanned channels, and transmitting beacons on the clearest channel. Upon detecting a beacon from a partner station, establishing association with the partner station and selecting a wireless data channel for communication with the partner station. Another implementation involves discovering a partner wireless station to establish a data channel for communication with a discovering station that is associated with a coordinator station, and transmitting a bandwidth reservation request to the coordinator to reserve channel time for control message exchange between the discovering station and the partner station.
US08135394B1 Computational communications service maintenance methods and systems
Methods and means provide for handling wireless signal sessions. A failure in wireless communication between a wireless device and a supporting wireless system is detected. The wireless signal session is preserved in a hold state for a limited time. The wireless system attempts to reestablish communication with the wireless device by way of one or more resources of the wireless system prior to the expiration of hold period. Reestablished communication can involve another communications tower or other aspects of the wireless system. In one or more embodiments, other wireless devices are accessed and serve to daisy chain wireless communications between the wireless device and wireless system until direct communications can be reestablished.
US08135391B2 Mobile device with enhanced telephone call information and a method of using same
A mobile device with enhanced telephone call information and a method of using same are provided. In accordance with one embodiment, there is provided a method of providing enhanced phone call information on a mobile communication device, comprising: receiving an incoming call on the device; identifying a contact name in an address book stored in a memory of the device in accordance with a phone number associated with the incoming call when the contact name is not provided with the incoming call; identifying a contact name in a remote contact source in accordance with a phone number associated with the incoming call when the contact name is not provided with the incoming call and not found in the address book stored in a memory of the device; and displaying the identified contact name in a user interface screen on a display screen of the device.
US08135390B2 Method for advertising on digital cellular telephones and reducing costs to the end user
The present invention relates to a method for displaying messages, such as advertisements, consumer promotions, and customer service announcements, on digital wireless communication devices, such as digital cellular telephones, comprising the steps of creating at least one visual advertising message, or other desirable information, in the form of an information file for display on a digital wireless communication device, valuating the at least one advertising message, transmitting the at least one advertising message to a database, wherein the database is in communication with the wireless communication device via a wireless communications network or system, such as a cellular telephone network, transmitting according to a predetermined schedule the at least one advertising message, or other desirable information, from the database via the wireless communication system to the wireless communication device, wherein the wireless communication device chosen for reception of the at least one advertising message contains necessary software for displaying the advertising message and a display, recording the date and time the at least one wireless communication device receives the at least one advertising message or other information, displaying the at least one advertising message or other information on the digital wireless communication device such that the display does not interfere with the operation of the digital wireless communication device, and applying the valuation of the at least one advertising message, or other desirable information, as credit to a user account associated with the digital wireless communication device.
US08135389B2 Missed telephone call management for a portable multifunction device
In one aspect of the invention, a computer-implemented method is disclosed for use in conjunction with a portable electronic device with a touch screen display. A list of items comprising missed telephone calls is displayed. Upon detecting user selection of an item in the list, contact information is displayed for a respective caller corresponding to the user selected item. The displayed contact information includes a plurality of contact objects that include a first contact object, comprising a telephone number object having a first telephone number associated with the missed telephone call, and a second contact object. Upon detecting user selection of the second contact object, a communication with the respective caller is initiated via a modality corresponding to the second contact object.
US08135385B2 Mobile terminal, access control management device, and access control management method
A mobile terminal (200) comprises an application execution unit (240) configured to execute an application program; an access control rule management unit (270) configured to retain an access control rule defining whether the application program has an access authorization to a confidential resource in the mobile terminal and a determining unit; an access control rule query unit (220) configured to acquire, from an external device, the access control rule by designating at least one of an identifier of a user identity module installed in the mobile terminal and an identifier of the mobile terminal, and to retain the acquired access control rule in the access control management unit; a query requirement determination unit (260) configured to determine whether to update the access control rule when the application program makes an access to the confidential resource, and to update the access control rule; an authorization management unit (230) configured to determine whether the application program has the access authorization based on the access control rule; and a confidential resource management unit (250) configured to determine whether to permit an access request to the confidential resource by the application program, based on a result of the determination of the authorization management unit (230).
US08135384B2 Policy enforcement for multi-radio transmission and reception
A process for controlling radio transmission and/or reception to enforce certain constraints with either single or multiple radio communication is disclosed. In one embodiment, the enforcement control may be by the corporate administrator (such as an Information Technology (IT) department) that is responsible for the company's wireless devices. In other embodiments, the enforcement control may be by a regulatory group having governmental control over wireless communication. In yet another embodiment, the enforcement control might be by a provider group, such as a provider of a local private or semi-private wireless network desiring certain controls over the users of the network.
US08135381B2 Mobile apparatus
According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a mobile apparatus including: a sensor configured to detect acceleration applied to the mobile apparatus and to generate a detection signal; a memory configured to record count data based on the detection signal, the count data associated with movement of the mobile apparatus; a counting module configured to count the number of user's steps based on the count data; a sound module configured to sound; and a counting control module configured to control the counting module to stop counting of the number of user's steps when the sound module starts sounding.
US08135376B2 System and method for differentiating between incoming and outgoing messages and identifying correspondents in a TTY communication
A method and system are provided that examine incoming and outgoing TTY transmissions to determine an identifier for distinguishing between correspondents in a TTY call. The system may utilize existing contact information associated with an incoming call to provide context to a user for accepting incoming calls and during conversations and may apply various display settings. For TTY users, the additional context simplifies the ability to conduct critical reasoning, especially those with cognitive impairments. In particular, a picture from the user's address book is provided to assist in identifying the caller. The other display settings may include modified font styles, colors, multi-line display etc. to differentiate between incoming and outgoing messages.
US08135375B2 Receiver having a gain-controllable stage
A gain-controllable stage (CLN, A1, A2 . . . , A7, ACC) comprises a reactive signal divider (CLN) followed by an amplifier arrangement (A1, A2 . . . , A7, ACC). The reactive signal divider (CLN) may be in the form of, for example, a capacitive ladder network. The gain-controllable stage (CLN, A1, A2 . . . , A7, ACC) has a gain factor that depends on a signal division factor that the reactive signal divider (CLN) provides. The reactive signal divider (CLN) forms part of a filter (LC). The signal division factor is adjusted on the basis of a frequency (F) to which the receiver is tuned and a signal-strength indication (RS).
US08135367B2 Method and system for on-demand linearity in a receiver
Aspects of a method and system for on-demand linearity in a receiver are provided. In this regard, in a receiver such as on-chip receiver, a strength of a signal received by one or more antennas may be measured and linearity of the receiver may be controlled in response to the measured signal strength. The linearity may be controlled based on signal strength of in-band and/or out-of-band signals and by configuring component(s) of the receiver. Exemplary components may comprise one or more filter, amplifier, mixer, analog-to-digital converter, feedback loop, and equalizer and/or post corrector. Linearity may be increased, by switching one or more feedback loops and/or an equalizers and/or post correctors into a signal path of the receiver. Power consumption may be decreased, at the expense of reduced linearity, by switching one or more feedback loops and/or an equalizers and/or post correctors out of a signal path of the receiver.
US08135365B2 Phase-locked loop based controller for adjusting an adaptive continuous-time filter
A direct conversion radio-frequency (RF) receiver includes a controller and an adaptive continuous-time filter. The adaptive continuous-time filter receives a multiple-bit control signal generated by the controller to adjust a characteristic of the continuous-time filter. The controller generates the multiple-bit control signal in response to process variation in the semiconductor material used to implement the controller and the adaptive continuous-time filter. A method for tuning an adaptive continuous-time filter comprises determining a RC time constant, converting the RC time constant to a digital word, comparing a select bit of the digital word to a respective bit of a predetermined reference word to generate a control bit, applying the control bit to an adjustable element to modify the RC time constant, repeating the determining, converting, comparing and applying steps until the control bits generate an output word and providing the output word to the adaptive continuous-time filter.
US08135362B2 Symbol stream virtual radio organism method and apparatus
A method of communicating using evolutionary synthesis for band-limited voice and data channels.
US08135359B2 Method and apparatus for conveying antenna configuration information
A method, apparatus and computer program product are provided for conveying information regarding the antenna configuration and/or the transmission diversity scheme to a recipient, such as a mobile device. In particular, information regarding the antenna configuration and/or the transmission diversity scheme can be conveyed by appropriately mapping a physical broadcast channel within a sub-frame so as to include reference signals indicative of different antenna configurations or transmission diversity schemes. Alternatively, masking, such as cyclic redundancy check masking, can be used to provide information regarding the antenna configuration and/or the transmission diversity scheme.
US08135356B2 Radio communication control apparatus and radio communication control method
To provide a radio communication control apparatus and a radio communication control method capable of controlling simultaneous transmission and reception so as not to degrade system throughput.A simultaneous transmission and reception controller 106 determines whether the simultaneous transmission and reception using the same frequency are possible, based on radio spectrum environment information of an opposite party of communication and radio spectrum environment information of a self-apparatus. When the simultaneous transmission and reception using the same frequency are determined to be possible, a control signal transmission section 109 transmits instruction information, indicating that the simultaneous transmission and reception are possible, and a transmission parameter thereof, to the above communication terminal. After the transmission parameter is set, a communication section 111 executes simultaneous transmission and reception with the above communication terminal using the same frequency, when the simultaneous transmission and reception using the same frequency are determined to be possible.
US08135355B2 Radio frequency transceiver front end circuit with parallel resonant circuit
A front end circuit for coupling an antenna to a radio frequency (RF) transceiver for time domain duplex systems is disclosed. The front end circuit includes an antenna port, a power amplifier, a low noise amplifier, and a matching network. The output of the power amplifier and the input of the low noise amplifier are coupled to the matching network and connected in common to the antenna. The power amplifier and the low noise amplifier are activated and deactivated in sequence corresponding to the transmit and receive modes of the transceiver, and the matching network minimizes the effect that one has on the other at the designated operating frequency.
US08135354B2 Method and system for chopped antenna impedance measurements with an RFID radio
Described herein are methods, devices and systems for characterizing an attached antenna to an electronic device, such as a radio frequency identification (“RFID”) reader. One exemplary embodiment is related to a method comprising outputting a low amplitude modulation (“AM”) index radio frequency (“RF”) waveform, the waveform simulating tag data timing and bandwidth, removing a direct current (“DC”) component from the waveform to create a chopped portion of the waveform, applying at least one vector analyzer technique on the chopped portion of the waveform, characterizing at least one antenna impedance vector of the waveform.
US08135353B1 System and method for testing emergency dispatch systems
A system and method for testing and monitoring all critical operational aspects of a conventional, non-trunked, radio communications base radio or repeater system and alerting the dispatcher when a communication failure or error occurs. The system includes a monitor radio, a dispatch display unit, a communications link from the dispatch center to a remote base station, and a master control unit that is in communication with the monitor radio, the dispatch display unit, and an existing dispatch console.
US08135352B2 Telecommunication enclosure monitoring system
A remote monitoring system for telecommunication enclosures includes a low profile or flush mounted sealed transceiver or antenna unit, an electronic module inside of the enclosure electrically connected to the transceiver and a communication device to send signals to the electronic module through the transceiver. The sealed housing generally comprises a portion extending through the exterior surface of the enclosure. In some embodiments, the transceiver may include a radio frequency antenna, a photoelectric cell, a light sensor or an infrared sensor, and the communication device may be a handheld device, a transponder, or a networked computer.
US08135350B2 System for reducing signal interference
A system for suppressing interference imposed on a victim communication signal by an aggressor communication signal including a circuit that comprises an input port, an output port, and a signal processing circuit connected between the input port and the output port, the signal processing circuit being operative to produce an interference compensation signal at the output port, for application to the victim communication signal, via processing a sample of the aggressor communication signal transmitted through the input port, and the input port being configured to connect to a sampling system that includes a first circuit trace running along a surface of a flex circuit of a portable wireless device that is dedicated to sensing the aggressor communication signal flowing on a second circuit trace running along the surface of the flex circuit.
US08135349B2 Apparatus and method for interference cancellation in multi-antenna system
An apparatus and method for interference cancellation in a multi-antenna system are provided. A transmission apparatus includes a channel identifier, a scheduler, an interference canceller, and a transmitter. The channel identifier identifies channel information of each of a plurality of receiving ends located in a service area and neighbor cell interference information on each receiving end. The scheduler selects at least one receiving end. The interference canceller precodes transmitted signals in order to cancel interference between receiving ends located in the same cell and neighbor cell interference. The transmitter transmits the precoded transmitted signals to the selected at least one receiving end.
US08135348B2 Rejection of transmit signal leakage in wireless communication device
This disclosure describes techniques for reducing adverse effects of transmit signal leakage in a full-duplex, wireless communication system. The disclosure describes techniques for reducing adverse effects of second order distortion and cross-modulation distortion of transmit signal leakage from a transmitter via a duplexer. The techniques may be effective in rejecting at least a portion of a transmit leakage signal, thereby reducing or eliminating distortion. The adaptive filter may include an estimator circuit that generates a transmit leakage signal estimate. A summer subtracts the estimate from the received signal to cancel transmit leakage and produce an output signal. The estimator circuit generates the transmit leakage signal estimate based on a reference signal and feedback from the output signal. The reference signal approximates the carrier signal used to generate the transmit signal in the transmitter. The reference signal may be provided by the same oscillator used to produce the transmit carrier signal.
US08135343B2 Information management apparatus, method, and computer program product, and communication processing apparatus, method, and computer program product
An information management apparatus includes a communication unit configured to receive, from a plurality of communication processing apparatuses, a plurality of pieces of communication history data of near-field communication performed in the plurality of communication processing apparatuses; a data comparison unit configured to perform comparison of the plurality of pieces of communication history data received by the communication unit; and a data registration unit configured to register a plurality of pieces of user information associated with the plurality of communication processing apparatuses as a group in a database on condition that it is verified by the data comparison unit, in accordance with the plurality of pieces of communication history data of the near-field communication, that near-field communication has been performed between the plurality of communication processing apparatuses.
US08135342B1 System, method and apparatus for using a wireless cell phone device to create a desktop computer and media center
A system, method and apparatus which permits the use of a wireless cell phone or other communications device as a connection, communications and control device able to connect a full-sized desktop monitor or other digital display device, keyboard, mouse, speakers, printer and other external devices to a wireless cell phone device using any combination of wireline or wireless connections from the desktop devices to the wireless cell phone device. The wireless cell phone device is used to create an Internet or other network connection capable of accessing any browser-based web site or browser-based software application commonly accessible to a standard desktop computer having an Internet connection. Once the connections between the desktop monitor, keyboard, mouse, speakers, printer and other components are established with the wireless cell phone device and the Internet connection is established with the wireless cell phone device, the user may access any browser-based web site or software application using the desktop monitor, keyboard, mouse, speakers, printer and other components. Access to Internet software, services and media includes all forms of browser-based desktop software, as well as digital movies, music, and streaming video.
US08135335B2 Apparatus and method for processing transmission information of broadcast message constituted by relay station (RS) in multihop relay broadband wireless access (BWA) communication system
An apparatus and a method for processing transmission information of a broadcast message constituted by a Relay Station (RS) in a multihop relay Broadband Wireless Access (BWA) communication system are provided. A communication method of the RS includes composing a message to be sent to a Mobile Station (MS); transmitting a scheduling request message which includes information required to schedule the composed message, to a Base Station (BS); and receiving an allocation message which includes information to transmit the composed message, from the BS in response to the scheduling request message.
US08135334B2 Methods, systems, and computer program products for transmitting streaming media to a mobile terminal using the bandwidth associated with a wireless network
A communication network is operated by obtaining a subscription at a wireless network from at least one device for a rebroadcast of streaming media and rebroadcasting the streaming media to the at least one device using the wireless network responsive to obtaining the subscription.
US08135332B2 Information processing device, information processing method, and information processing program
Set information including information identifying one or more areas of operation of a broadcast terminal apparatus and a user ID, and broadcast-station information including a name and an identification data item of a broadcast station are stored. The broadcast-station information is stored in association with an area in which a broadcast signal output by the broadcast station can be received. An information-processing apparatus includes a detecting unit that retrieves the name or the identification data item of the broadcast station upon a reception of information identifying one of the one or more areas of operation and the user ID. The information-processing apparatus also includes a transmitting/receiving unit that receives the reception, transmits a transmission of the name or the identification data item of the broadcast station upon the reception, and receives an indicator of the broadcast station and an indicator of the user ID in response to the transmission.
US08135331B2 System for providing interactive user interactive user interest survey to user of mobile devices
A system for mobile devices that facilitates the creation and dissemination of user interest surveys to a plurality of mobile devices and PCs/laptops that comprise a user interest survey client component. A computer or PC comprising an user interest survey generator is used to generate audio assisted user interest surveys and communicate it to a distribution server for dissemination. Recipient devices, such as PCs and Mobile devices comprise an user interest survey client component to receive and present user interest survey to a user, gather user interest information, and to send it back to the distribution server or an alternate destination.
US08135326B2 Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes a developer housing that holds a developer; a lubricant supply brush that rotates when in contact with the developer housing, and that supplies a lubricant to a surface of the developer housing; a lubricant that is in contact with the lubricant supply brush; a first voltage supply unit that supplies an AC voltage on which a DC voltage is superimposed to the lubricant supply brush; a determination unit that determines whether or not a usage state of the developer housing is a state at an initial stage; and a controller that controls the first voltage supply unit to supply the AC voltage on which the DC voltage is superimposed to the lubricant supply brush, prior to start of execution of an image forming operation if the determination unit determines that the usage state of the developer housing is the state at the initial stage.
US08135324B2 Fuser member and methods of making thereof
A fuser member includes a substrate and an outer layer including a polymeric material and an aerogel component including aerogel particles having a surface area of from about 400 to about 1200 m2/g that is at least one of dispersed in or bonded to the polymeric material. Methods of making a fuser member include applying an outer layer including a polymeric material and an aerogel component over a substrate, and curing the outer layer such that the aerogel component is at least one of dispersed in or bonded to the polymeric material.
US08135320B2 Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus for transporting a recording medium on which an image is formed includes a guide plate. The guide plate guides the recording medium to a predetermined position in the image forming apparatus and includes a flexible sheet member and a rigid holding member. The rigid holding member holds the flexible sheet member such that the flexible sheet member projects from a front end of the rigid holding member. The projecting portion of the flexible sheet member includes at least three flexible sub-portions having a different bend-stiffness per unit area from each other, and the bend-stiffness per unit area is reduced toward a downstream side in a sheet guide direction.
US08135312B2 Development apparatus and image forming apparatus
There is provided a development apparatus including: a first developer storage container and a second developer storage container that store developer, having a first a and second openings, respectively; a first transport member provided within the first developer storage container, and that causes the developer to move to the second developer storage container via the first opening; a second transport member provided within the second developer storage container, and that causes the developer to move to the first developer storage container via the second opening; a developer holding member that performs development by causing the developer to move to a position facing an image holding body on which a latent image is formed; and a moving member provided so as to fit between an inner wall face of the second developer storage container and an outer edge of the second transport member.
US08135310B2 Image forming apparatus with translation cam member
An image forming apparatus includes a detaching and pressing mechanism for releasing developing rollers of developer cartridges mounted in a drum unit from photosensitive drums and pressing the developing rollers on the photosensitive drums. The detaching and pressing mechanism includes a pair of translation cam members, intermediate members provided on the translation cam members, cam holders for holding the translation cam members in such a manner as to be linearly movable in an anteroposterior direction, and a synchronous movement mechanism for allowing the pair of translation cam members to linearly move in synchronization.
US08135306B2 Image forming apparatus having detachable process units
An image forming apparatus includes process units arranged in a predetermined direction to form a process-unit row, each having a photosensitive body and a developer container; a casing accommodating the process units and having a cover opening and closing an opening formed at one side in the predetermined direction, and an exposure member exposing the photosensitive body, and having a laser source, a deflector, and an optical element, and the exposure member is arranged facing the developer container of each process unit in a direction orthogonal to the predetermined direction. The process units are detachable from the casing, through the opening of the casing, and the developer container of one process unit arranged at one end of the process-unit row has a protruding portion protruding toward the exposure member to overlap with the exposure member in the orthogonal direction.
US08135304B2 Process cartridge having regulating portions and an inclineable coupling member
A process cartridge is detachably mountable to a main assembly of an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, which includes a rotating force applying portion. The cartridge includes an electrophotographic photosensitive drum, a developing roller, a first frame unit supporting the drum, a second frame unit supporting the roller and swingably connected with the first frame unit, a coupling, mounted to the drum, for receiving a rotating force for rotating the drum from the rotating force applying portion when the cartridge is mounted to the main assembly, first, second and third cartridge side portions to be positioned engageable respectively with first, second and third main assembly side positioning portions provided in the main assembly to regulate movement of the first frame unit in a longitudinal direction of the drum or to position the drum in a radial direction when the cartridge is mounted to the main assembly, and first unit side and drum side regulating portions.
US08135301B2 Developing device and image forming apparatus
A developing device includes a developer transporting member arranged so that its circumferential surface faces an image carrier for carrying an electrostatic image on its surface, the developer transporting member being rotated in a circumferential direction while carrying the developer on its circumferential surface to transport a developer to a developing region in which the surface of the image carrier and the circumferential surface of the developer transporting member face each other, and having a groove extending in its circumferential direction outside in an axial direction of a developer carrying region; and a suction port arranged at least at one of an upstream side region and a downstream side region of the developer transporting member, wherein the upstream side region is located adjacent to and upstream of the developing region and the downstream side region is located adjacent to and downstream of the developing region in the rotating direction of the developer transporting member.
US08135300B2 Process cartridge, image forming apparatus and developing cartridge
A process cartridge, which includes a developing cartridge and a photosensitive cartridge for use with an image forming apparatus including a driving force output part and a feeding part, is provided. The developing cartridge includes a developer carrier, a first electrode provided at one side thereof, and a driving force receiving part provided at another side thereof and aligned with the first electrode such that the driving force receiving part overlaps the first electrode in a side view. The photosensitive cartridge, to which the developing cartridge is removably mounted, includes a photosensitive member, and a second electrode that contacts the first electrode when the developing cartridge is mounted in the photosensitive cartridge and that contacts the feeding part when the photosensitive cartridge is mounted in the image forming apparatus. The first electrode is pressed toward the driving force receiving part by contact with the second electrode.
US08135299B2 Computer generated imagery (CGI) fault clearance instructions
A method of providing instructions to a user of an imaging device includes generating a three-dimensional (3D) model of the imaging device in a 3D computer generated environment. At least one computer generated imagery (CGI) instruction sequence is then rendered from the 3D model. The CGI instruction sequence depicts at least one action being performed on the imaging device and is rendered from a virtual viewpoint corresponding to a viewpoint of a user physically performing the at least one action. The rendered CGI instructions are stored in memory of the imaging device and selectively displayed on a user interface display screen of the imaging device.
US08135298B2 Image forming apparatus and image forming method for controlling image formation based on a temperature of a fusing rotating body
An image forming apparatus, such as a printer, includes an image forming unit forming a toner image on an image carrier, a transfer unit for transferring the toner image onto a recording medium, a pair of a fusing rotating body and a pressure rotating body, a fusing unit for fusing the toner image on the recording medium, a temperature detecting unit for detecting the temperature on the surface of the fusing rotating body, and a control unit. An amount of decrease in the temperature of the fusing rotating body surface is measured at a predetermined time, and the time between an image formation request and the arrival of the recording medium, with the toner image formed thereon, at a fusing/nipping portion formed between the fusing rotating body and the pressure rotating body is extended when the temperature decrease amount is greater than a threshold value.
US08135296B2 Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes an image bearing member configured to bear a toner image on a surface thereof, a transfer unit configured to transfer the toner image on the image bearing member to a sheet, a fixing unit configured to heat and fix the toner image on the sheet transferred by the transfer unit, a reading unit configured to read the sheet that has passed through the fixing unit, from an end surface of the sheet, a control unit configured to control a fixing temperature when the fixing unit heats and fixes the toner image on the sheet, based on an image read by the reading unit.
US08135295B2 Image forming apparatus with a developing device utilizing an alternating bias voltage
There is provided an image forming apparatus capable of realizing Improvement of an image density by improving dot reproducibility and reducing fog as well. An alternating voltage is applied to a development sleeve so that a first period during which a first peak-to-peak voltage Vpp(1) is applied and a second period during which a second peak-to-peak voltage Vpp(2) that is lower than the first peak-to-peak voltage is applied are repeated alternately. The alternating voltage to be applied is applied so that a development-side potential to move toner from the development sleeve to a photoreceptor and an opposite development-side potential to move toner from the photoreceptor to the development sleeve alternate with each other A frequency of the second period is lower than a frequency of the first period.
US08135294B2 Image forming apparatus for forming image on record medium
A record medium determining device 1, which determines a kind of a record medium 16 by irradiating a laser light 17 to a surface of the record medium 16, detecting a received light position and a received light intensity of a reflected light 18 by a line sensor 14, and comparing a distribution state of the received light position and the received light intensity with a previously determined distribution state, is disposed on the upstream side of a record medium conveyance path 653 with respect to a fixing unit.
US08135287B2 100 Gbit/s OFDM optical signal generation
A method includes modulating lightwaves to provide first and second OFDM signal sidebands at a first polarization direction and first and second OFDM signal sidebands at a second polarization direction, and combining sidebands that are oppositely positioned and joined from the first and second OFDM signal sidebands at each polarization direction to provide a polarization multiplexing OFDM signal.
US08135284B2 Fiber misconnection detecting method and device
In a method and device which can quickly detect a fiber misconnection without setting an expected value, a node identifier of source node and an identifier of an interface for inputting/outputting a signal are set in a predetermined first field of a header to be transmitted to a destination node, and when both identifiers set in the first field are received from the destination node, both identifiers are set in a predetermined second field of the header to be transmitted and stored with the first field. When the identifiers set in the first and second fields are received and the identifiers of the second field among the identifiers are consistent with the identifiers of the first field stored at the second step (means), a connection is determined to be correct.
US08135281B2 Free space optical connector
A Free Space Optics (FSO) connector is provided with a method for interfacing to an electronic circuit card electrical connector via the FSO connector. The method transceives electrical signals via an electronic circuit card electrical connector. Using an FSO connector, the method converts between electrical signals and optical signals, and transceives optical signals via free space. In one aspect, the optical signals are initially received via free space along a first axis, and reflected along a second axis. Further, the optical signals may be initially transmitted along the second axis and reflected into free space along the first axis. In another aspect, the optical signals are transceived in a plurality of directions in free space. For example, optical signals may be transmitted and received in four mutually-orthogonal axes.
US08135273B2 Systems and methods of optical path protection for distributed antenna systems
Systems and methods for optical path protection for distributed antenna systems are provided. In one embodiment, a method is provided. The method comprises receiving an electrical uplink radio frequency signal; generating an uplink optical signal derived from the electrical uplink radio frequency signal; splitting the uplink optical signal for transmission on a primary uplink optical fiber and a secondary uplink optical fiber; combining any downlink optical signal received on a primary downlink optical communication medium and any downlink optical signal received on a second downlink optical communication medium in order to output a downlink optical signal; and generating a downlink radio frequency signal derived from the downlink optical signal.
US08135271B2 Method of calibrating an autofocus lighting device of a camera
A method of calibrating an autofocus (AF) lighting device of a camera is disclosed. A reference image is captured with light projected from the AF lighting device, and a relative position of a central coordinate of the projected light with respect to a central coordinate of the reference image is stored. When operating the camera, the AF lighting device is activated to emit light after a shutter button of the camera is pressed halfway down, and a preview picture is displayed on a panel of the camera. A central position of the emitted light is then transposed toward a center of the panel according to the stored relative position.
US08135270B2 Imaging device and imaging method
When the total number of pairs of a feature point and a corresponding point, which are detected from a first image data and a second image data that are in focus, respectively, exceeds a predetermined threshold th1, a parallax histogram generation unit is controlled to generate a histogram of parallax amount, and a representative parallax information determination unit is controlled to determine an amount of representative parallax from bins in the histogram of parallax amount. According to a search direction determined by a focus adjustment unit, the representative parallax information determination unit determines significance of each bin in the histogram based on whether a frequency f of the bin is greater than a predetermined threshold th2. The representative parallax information determination unit determines the amount of representative parallax based on amounts of parallax in the significant bin. A stereoscopic display control unit determines clipping ranges of the first image data and the second image data based on the determined amount of representative parallax.
US08135267B2 Autofocus imaging optical system and image pickup device
An image pickup device in which reflectance in a central portion of the splitting optical system is configured large and that in a peripheral portion is configured small, to thereby selectively reflect only a light beam for focus detection in focus detection means and transmit the other portions of the light beam to the image pickup means so that a decrease in an amount of light for the image pickup means can be reduced while securing an amount of light for focus detection.
US08135262B2 Apparatus and method for programming the recording of broadcast programs and delaying the recording end times when extension key words are detected
An apparatus and method for programming the recording of broadcast programs, for programming recording by setting the recording start time and the recording end time of a given program in the broadcast program information is provided, wherein the apparatus and method for programming the recording of broadcast programs, delays the recording end time of programmed broadcast program, when a broadcast program is present in which an extension keyword is detected by searching electronic program guide information acquired regarding broadcast programs to be programmed, and electronic program guide information acquired regarding programs scheduled to be broadcast on the same channel and the same date as and prior to the programmed broadcast program, for predetermined extension keywords indicating program extension or delay.
US08135259B2 Recording medium having a data structure for managing reproduction of text subtitle data and methods and apparatuses of recording and reproducing
In the a data structure, a subtitle area of the recording medium stores a text subtitle stream including text subtitle data and at least one of global style information and local style information. The global style information provides at least one of composition information and rendering information, and the local style information provides font information for at least a portion of the text subtitle data.
US08135256B2 Network interface device
A network interface device includes a body, a cover, and a cable spool. The front of the body defines a forward interior in which telecommunications components are arranged. An optical adapter extends partially out of the forward interior at an optical coupling location. The cover includes a shroud that extends over the portion of the optical adapter extending out of the forward interior when the cover is closed. Sidewalls extend from the rear of the body to define a rearward pocket. The cable spool can be removably mounted within the rearward pocket. Alternatively, the cable spool can be fixed to the body and the sidewalls can be removed from the body to allow access to the cable spool.
US08135254B2 Microstructured transmission optical fiber
A microstructured optical fiber for transmitting optical signals comprised of light, the optical fiber comprising: a core region disposed about a longitudinal centerline and having a refractive index profile with a first refractive index, and a cladding region surrounding the core region, the cladding region comprising an annular void-containing region comprised of non-periodically disposed voids; wherein maximum void diameter in nm is given by Dmax and the maximum void length in cm is not greater than 2.5×105×(dmax)−1.7.
US08135253B2 Microchannel plate (MCP) having an asymmetric packing pattern for higher open area ratio (OAR)
A boule for making a multichannel plate (MCP) includes (a) at least two sets of rows of fibers, each set arranged to form a hexagonally shaped boundary of fibers, and (b) an additional row of fibers disposed between the two sets of hexagonally shaped boundary of fibers. The additional row of fibers includes a horizontally oriented row of fibers, which is packed on top of a horizontally oriented boundary of fibers. A fiber of the horizontally oriented row of fibers of the boundary is packed adjacent to two consecutive fibers of the additional row of fibers, forming a triangular shape of fibers. The triangular shape of fibers forms a maximum open area ratio (OAR) of at least 90 percent.
US08135252B2 Grease-free buffer optical fiber buffer tube construction utilizing a water-swellable, texturized yarn
A buffered optical fiber arrangement that includes a buffer tube in which is provided optical fibers and a texturized yarn coated with a water-swellable material. The filament diameter of the yarn used in the present invention may be between about 5 microns and about 100 microns, more preferably between about 10 and about 60 microns, still more preferably between about 20 and about 40 microns. The linear density, or denier in grams per 9000 meters, of the base yarn may be between about 100 and 1000, more preferably between about 200 and 600, or still more preferably between about 250 and 350. The degree of decrease in length (the “degree of texturizing”) between the perfectly straight filaments before texturizing and the texturized filament may be between 1 percent and 90 percent, more preferably between about 2 percent and 50 percent, or still more preferably between about 5 percent and 25 percent.
US08135251B2 Opto-electric hybrid board and manufacturing method thereof
An opto-electric hybrid board in which a new alignment mark having an identifying mark that is easy to recognize is formed in addition to a conventional alignment mark, and a method of manufacturing the opto-electric hybrid board. The opto-electric hybrid board includes an optical waveguide portion 2, an electric circuit board 1, and optical elements mounted on this electric circuit board 1. The optical waveguide portion 2 includes a translucent under cladding layer 21, a linear core 22 for an optical path, first alignment marks 24 positioned relative to end portions of this core 22, and an over cladding layer 23 for covering the above-mentioned core 22 and the first alignment marks 24. The electric circuit board 1 includes second alignment marks 15 for positioning of the optical elements and formed on a surface thereof on which the optical elements are mounted.
US08135246B2 Three-dimensional sensor optical waveguide, and three-dimensional sensor employing the same
A three-dimensional sensor optical waveguide which permits size reduction, and a three-dimensional sensor employing the same. A three-dimensional sensor optical waveguide includes a plurality of frame-shaped optical waveguide members stacked coaxially in a thickness direction, and a measurement space defined by inner spaces of the stacked frame-shaped optical waveguide members. The optical waveguide members each include a light emitting core, a light receiving core and an over-cladding layer covering the cores. The light emitting core has a light output end positioned in one of opposed inner edge portions of each of the frame-shaped optical waveguide members. The light receiving core has a light input end positioned in the other inner edge portion of each of the frame-shaped optical waveguide members.
US08135242B2 Optical modulator
In an optical modulator, an intermediate substrate is provided separate from a main substrate on which a plurality of optical modulation sections are provided in parallel, and signal lines corresponding to the optical modulation sections are formed on the intermediate substrate. The signal lines are connected to signal electrodes corresponding to the main substrate, and have electrical lengths that are different from each other. Furthermore, the propagation loss per unit length in the signal lines on the intermediate substrate is preferably less than the propagation loss per unit length in the signal electrodes on the main substrate. As a result, even if a plurality of optical modulation sections are arranged in parallel, and the input ends of the signal electrodes of the optical modulation sections are arranged side by side on one side face of the substrate, synchronized modulation light of a low noise at a wide band width can be output from the optical modulation sections.
US08135237B2 Apparatuses and methods for noise reduction
Methods and apparatuses provide noise reduction in a demosaiced digital image by processing the digitized signals received from a color pattern pixel array for noise reduction previous to, or as part of, a demosaicing process by using a weight matrix.
US08135234B2 Method and apparatus for edge-based spatio-temporal filtering
There are provided methods and apparatus for edge-based spatio-temporal filtering. An apparatus for filtering a sequence of pictures includes a spatial filter, a motion compensator, a deblocking filter, and a temporal filter. The spatial filter is for spatially filtering a picture in the sequence and at least one reference picture selected from among previous pictures and subsequent pictures in the sequence with respect to the picture. The motion compensator, in signal communication with the spatial filter, is for forming, subsequent to spatial filtering, multiple temporal predictions for the picture from the at least one reference picture. The deblocking filter, in signal communication with the motion compensator, is for deblock filtering the multiple temporal predictions. The temporal filter, in signal communication with the deblocking filter, is for temporally filtering the multiple temporal predictions and combining the multiple temporal predictions to generate a noise reduced version of the picture.
US08135230B2 Enhancing dynamic ranges of images
Methods and apparatus according to various aspects take as input image data in a lower-dynamic-range (LDR) format and produce as output enhanced image data having a dynamic range greater than that of the input image data (i.e. higher-dynamic range (HDR) image data). In some embodiments, the methods are applied to video data and are performed in real-time (i.e. processing of video frames to enhance the dynamic range of the video frames is completed at least on average at the frame rate of the video signal).
US08135228B2 Apparatus and method for immersion generation
An apparatus and method of generating an immersion is provided. The apparatus for generating the immersion includes: a foreground/background separation unit to separate an input image into a foreground area and a background area using lightness information of the input image; an edge classification unit to classify the foreground area into an edge area and a non-edge area using the lightness information; a detail enhancement unit to enhance detail of the edge area of the foreground area; and a blurring performing unit to perform blurring of the non-edge area and the background area.
US08135227B2 Apparatus and method for augmenting sight
A method of augmenting sight in an individual. The method comprises obtaining an image of a scene using a camera carried by the individual; transmitting the obtained image to a processor carried by the individual; selecting an image modification to be applied to the image by the processor; operating upon the image to create a modified image using either analog or digital imaging techniques, and displaying the modified image on a display device worn by the individual. The invention also relates to an apparatus augmenting sight in an individual. The apparatus comprises a camera, carried by the individual, for obtaining an image of a scene viewed by the individual; a display carried by the individual; an image modification input device carried by the individual; and a processor, carried by the individual. The processor modifies the image and displays the modified image on the display carried by the individual.
US08135226B2 Image encoder, image encoding method, image decoder, and image decoding method
In an image encoder, a first quantization section which is selected when normal image quality is required performs quantization by dividing a wavelet transformation coefficient by a quantization step size and by thereafter rounding down a fraction thereof. On the other side, a second quantization section which is selected when high image quality is required performs quantization by dividing a wavelet transformation coefficient by a quantization step size, by adding 0.5 to the addition result, and by thereafter rounding down a fraction thereof. Therefore, the width of a dead zone where coefficients are quantized to a value of 0 is narrower than that in the first quantization section, and higher image quality is obtained accordingly.
US08135224B2 Generating image data
The present invention concerns the generation of image data, particularly, though not exclusively for motion estimation in the context of video coders employing inter frame differential coding. A method is provided for generating image data using a set of sampled pixels, the sampled pixels being representative of a sampled image, the method including the steps of: (i) at intermediate positions between sampled pixels, interpolating the sampled pixels so as to provide at least one set of interpolated pixels arranged along a plurality of lines, the or each set of interpolated pixels having a respective offset relative to the sampled pixels, and, (ii) storing the or each set of interpolated pixels with a respective address in a memory, the addresses forming an ordered sequence, wherein along a given line, neighbouring interpolated pixels having the same offset are stored with respective addresses that are consecutive to one another in the ordered sequence.
US08135222B2 Generation of video content from image sets
An image processing method comprises: clustering images of a set of images to generate a plurality of scenes each comprising an unordered cluster of images; ordering images within scenes respective to video coherence to generate ordered scenes comprising ordered sequences of images; and generating video content as images ordered in accordance with the ordered sequences of images comprising the scenes. In some embodiments, the video content is converted to video comprising video frames played at a predetermined frame rate.
US08135211B2 Method and device for three-dimensional reconstruction of a scene
Passive methods for three-dimensional reconstruction of a scene by means of image data are generally based on the determination of spatial correspondences between a number of images of the scene recorded from various directions and distances. A method and a device are disclosed which provide a high reliability in the solution of the correspondence problem in conjunction with a low computational outlay. Image areas for determining the correspondences are determined within a plurality of images forming at least two image sequences. In preferred embodiments, a parameterized function h(u, v, t) is matched to each of the image areas in a space R(uvgt) defined by pixel position (u, v), image value g and time t. The parameters of the parameterized functions are used to form a similarity measure between the image areas.
US08135205B2 Rapid matching of noisy spectra or other signal patterns
A method for use in an object scanning process includes obtaining a reference spectrum that includes a plurality of reference peaks, and comparing the reference spectrum with an input spectrum that has a plurality of input peaks, wherein a number of the reference peaks is less than eight. A method for use in an object scanning process includes obtaining a reference spectrum that includes a plurality of reference peaks, comparing one of the reference peaks with a plurality of input peaks from an input spectrum, comparing another one of the reference peaks with the plurality of input peaks from the input spectrum, and determining a degree of similarity between the reference spectrum and the input spectrum using a result from the acts of comparing.
US08135200B2 Imaging auto shutter ROI
A method to identify a Region Of Interest (ROI) within an image includes the steps of: reading a digital image; finding predetermined brightness values; analyzing lines near a plurality of outer edges of the digital image; identifying an entire area of the digital image as the ROI if the found brightness values are also found in lines near the plurality of outer edges of the digital image; computing Radon transforms to generate one dimensional (1D) projections of the digital image if the found brightness values are not found in the lines; detecting a set of edges within the 1D projections; selecting edges from the set of edges; validating the selected edges to identify a set of validated edges; computing the ROI from the set of validated edges of the 1D projections; and saving the computed ROI to memory. A system to perform the method is also described.
US08135196B2 Operating method for a pivotal poly-plane imaging unit for imaging a moving examination object
The invention relates to a pivotal poly-plane imaging unit having a first and a second imaging planes arranged relative to each other at an offset angle and recording projection images of an moving examination object at a fan angle β. First and second projection images are recorded in different relative positions at respective instants by pivoting the imaging planes at an angle at least 180°+β. Characteristic structures in the first and second projection images are detected. The characteristic structures are segmented by a vectorial representation and triangulated to obtain a three-dimensional representation of the characteristic structures. Three-dimensional displacement vector fields are determined that indicate displacements of the three-dimensional representation of the characteristic structures relative to a reference instant. A three-dimensional image is reconstructed using the three-dimensional displacement vector fields to display a state of the moving examination object at the reference instant.
US08135190B2 Method of removing an effect of side lobes in forming an ultrasound synthetic image
The present invention relates to a method of removing an effect of side lobes in an ultrasound synthetic image. The method includes: a) setting a plurality of scan lines and defining sequential indices upon the scan lines; b) setting a transmit order of a transmit beam for the scan lines in a non-sequential manner in which increment and decrement of the indices of the scan lines are repeated; c) transmitting the transmit beam based on the set transmit order to obtain a plurality of receive beams in response to each transmission of the transmit beam; d) grouping the receive beams to an increment group corresponding to an increment direction of the numbers of the scan lines and a decrement group corresponding to a decrement direction of the numbers of the scan lines; e) performing an auto correlation upon the receive beams included in the respective increment group and the decrement group; and f) applying weights to the auto correlation results and summing the weight-applied auto correlation results to thereby remove an effect of side lobes.
US08135189B2 System and method for organ segmentation using surface patch classification in 2D and 3D images
A method for segmenting organs in digitized medical images includes providing a set of segmented training images of an organ, computing a surface mesh having a plurality of mesh cells that approximates a border of the organ, extracting positive examples of all mesh cells and negative examples in the neighborhood of each mesh cell which do not belong to the organ surface, training from the positive examples and negative examples a plurality of classifiers for outputting a probability of a point being a center of a particular mesh cell, computing an active shape model using a subset of center points in the mesh cells, generating a new shape by iteratively deforming the active shape model to fit a test image, and using the classifiers to calculate a probability of each center point of the new shape being a center of a mesh cell which the classifier was trained to recognize.
US08135188B2 Efficient features for shape analysis of lesions in breast MR
A method for analyzing a shape of a region of interest in a medical image of a body part, including: finding a region of interest in the medical image; calculating a Reeb graph of the region of interest, and determining whether the region of interest is a malignant lesion candidate based on a shape characteristic of the Reeb graph.
US08135186B2 Method and system for image reconstruction
Disclosed is an imaging system including a source generating an x-ray beam, a detector array receiving the x-ray beam and generating projection data, a translatable table configured for disposal of an object thereon and operable to translate in relation to the source and the detector array, the source and the detector array rotating about the translatable table to scan the object, and an image reconstructor electrically coupled to the detector array and configured to reconstruct an image in response to the projection data via an iterative reconstruction technique configured to perform a targeted statistical reconstruction.
US08135185B2 Location and display of occluded portions of vessels on 3-D angiographic images
A method of finding the location of an occluded portion of a blood vessel relative to a three-dimensional angiographic image of a subject's vasculature includes identifying the location of the occluded portion of the blood vessel on each of a series of displayed two dimensional images derived from the three dimensional image data in planes substantially transverse to direction of the occluded portion of the vessel. The identified locations in the occluded portion of the vessel can then be used to determine the path of the occluded portion of the vessel.
US08135183B2 Head pose assessment methods and systems
Improvements are provided to effectively assess a user's face and head pose such that a computer or like device can track the user's attention towards a display device(s). Then the region of the display or graphical user interface that the user is turned towards can be automatically selected without requiring the user to provide further inputs. A frontal face detector is applied to detect the user's frontal face and then key facial points such as left/right eye center, left/right mouth corner, nose tip, etc., are detected by component detectors. The system then tracks the user's head by an image tracker and determines yaw, tilt and roll angle and other pose information of the user's head through a coarse to fine process according to key facial points and/or confidence outputs by pose estimator.
US08135182B2 Method for creating photo cutouts and collages
A method for automatically producing a new digital image from a first digital image that includes regions of interest, includes obtaining a main subject belief map including an array of belief values indicating the location and relative importance of subject matter in the first digital image; producing a mask for each privileged object in the first digital image, each such mask including margins around its corresponding privileged object; overlaying the mask(s) onto the belief map; and producing a first convex hull that includes the mask(s) with margin(s) and regions of the highest belief values from the belief map.
US08135178B2 Process for normalizing images or other data layers
A method of processing vegetation data including the steps of identifying data relating to an agricultural field, segregating areas of predetermined development patterns and prescribing application rates of an agricultural compound. The identifying step includes identifying data relating to an agricultural field representative of areas of predetermined development patterns of vegetation in the field. The segregating step includes segregating the areas of the predetermined development patterns thereby defining segregated areas, other areas in the field being non-segregated areas. The prescribing step including prescribing application rates of an agricultural compound to the non-segregated areas dependent on at least one attribute determined from the data.
US08135177B2 Motion detection device
The invention refers to a device, a method and a computer program product for extracting motion information from a sequence of video frames. Existing solutions for extracting motion information from sequence of video frames need a massive computing power which make it difficult and expensive to implement a real-time system. It is therefore an object of the invention to simplify such a device and to provide a real-time embedded system. It is suggested to provide a device comprising a digital video camera 1. The video camera 1 includes a processing unit 3 for processing video frames grabbed by the video camera 1. The processing uses a 3D recursive search block matching algorithm to extract the motion information from the video frames. The device can be used for traffic surveillance applications, e.g. for determining the speed of vehicles on the streets and roads.
US08135176B2 Method for determining the self-motion of a vehicle
A method and a device for determining the self-motion of a vehicle in an environment are provided, in which at least part of the environment is recorded via snapshots by an imaging device mounted on the vehicle. At least two snapshots are analyzed for determining the optical flows of image points, reference points that seem to be stationary from the point of view of the imaging device being ascertained from the optical flows. The reference points are collected in an observed set, new reference points being dynamically added to the observed set with the aid of a first algorithm, and existing reference points being dynamically removed from the observed set with the aid of a second algorithm.
US08135175B2 Vehicle, image processing system image processing method, image processing program, method for configuring image processing system, and server
An image processing system and the like capable of accurately recognizing lane edges defined by dotted lane marks are provided. According to an image processing system (100) of the present invention, a first processing unit (110) searches a road surface image captured by a vehicle-mounted camera for a “small area,” which is composed of high- or low-luminance pixels and satisfies “eligibility conditions” on the “size,” “shape,” and “arrangement” in the road surface image. Additionally, a second processing unit (120) recognizes “lane edges” of the lane along which the vehicle travels on the basis of the “small area.” Furthermore, a third processing unit (130) sets a “search range” of the small area searched by the first processing unit (110) on the basis of a result of the foregoing recognition of the lane edges by the second processing unit (120).
US08135174B2 Automatic image object identification using threshold gradient magnitude based on terrain type
A method and system for processing image data to identify objects in an image. Terrain types are identified in the image. A second image is generated identifying areas of the image which border regions of different intensities by identifying a gradient magnitude value for each pixel of the image. A filtered image is generated from the second image, the filtered image identifying potential objects which have a smaller radius than the size of a filter and a different brightness than background pixels surrounding the potential objects. The second image and the filtered image are compared to identify potential objects as an object. A potential object is identified as an object if the potential object has a gradient magnitude greater than a threshold gradient magnitude, and the threshold gradient magnitude is based on the terrain type identified in the portion of the image where the potential object is located.
US08135170B2 Method for developing three dimensional surface patterns for a papermaking belt
A process for making an image for a papermaking belt wherein the image is the product of: (a) providing an image, said image being a simple geometric figure; (b) performing a first alpha image modification algorithm on said image; (c) performing a first beta image modification algorithm upon said image to provide a resultant image, said beta image modification algorithm being a three-dimensional image modification algorithm; and, (d) using said resultant image to form a pattern for said papermaking belt.
US08135167B2 Method for determining power-save mode of multimedia application
A method for determining a power-save mode of multimedia application, when a user operates a computer system through a peripheral input device, an image sensor retrieves a first image data corresponding to the user's facial feature. Next, the first image data is stored into the computer system. Then, the computer system confirms whether an input signal from the peripheral input device is received or not within a preset time. Once the preset time is reached, the image sensor is used to retrieve a second image data. Then, the computer system compares the second image data with the first image data, and if the matching rate between the second image data and the first image data falls out of a specific range, the computer system enters the power-save mode.
US08135158B2 Loudspeaker line array configurations and related sound processing
A sound reproduction system includes one or more arrays of drive units, coupled with sound processing allowing improved steerability, directional control, width control, and/or beam overlay. A speaker column may comprise two arrays facing one another, the drive units being perpendicular to the speaker unit front, with the acoustic output of each line array being compressed, turned and output from an elongate slot. The drive units may be staggered with respect to those in the opposing array. The arrays may be arc-shaped else straight. Selective delays to simulate an arced pattern. Differential delays applied to the drive units in a sub-array allow beam steering. Additional drive units, such as high frequency drivers, may be added along the length of the elongate slot or elsewhere to increase the dynamic frequency range of the speaker system. A collocated sound processor and amplifier output stage may be integrated with the speaker unit.
US08135156B2 Sound reproduction device with enhanced low-frequency sound effect
This invention is to provide a sound reproduction device including a tube, a loudspeaker and a resonance unit, wherein the loudspeaker includes a frame body having a side adjacent to a first diaphragm thereof peripherally fixed to a first opening of the tube, and the resonance unit includes a second diaphragm peripherally fixed to a second opening of the tube and a weighting element fixed at a central position of the second diaphragm. Thus, a closed resonance chamber is defined within the tube between the loudspeaker and resonance unit. When the loudspeaker is driven, the first diaphragm is vibrated and in turn vibrates air in front of the sound reproduction device to make sound and drives the second diaphragm to vibrate air behind the sound reproduction device synchronously in the same direction, thereby producing twice as strong low-frequency sound effect as a traditional sound reproduction device without a resonance unit.
US08135154B2 Switch arrangement and method for changing over a hearing device
Switch arrangement for hearing devices, which includes a connector socket which can be covered by a socket cover. The connector socket and the socket cover are arranged and embodied such that an electrical switching contact can be produced by applying pressure to the socket cover covering the connector socket. A method for changing over programs in hearing devices with a behind-the-ear part is also specified, in which an electrical switching contact is produced by means of a connector socket of the behind-the-ear part and its socket cover. Space can be saved as a result.
US08135153B2 Computerized automatic wax guard design modeling system and method for hearing instruments
A method and appertaining system provide for automatically adding a wax guard to a hearing aid shell impression. The location of a canal, tip of the canal, and central line of the impression are automatically identified in a digital 3D representation of a hearing aid shell impression. A first wax guard plane is determined at a predefined flip distance from the canal tip along the central line, and a second wax guard plane is determined at a predefined canal tip offset distance from the canal tip along the central line. A size and position for a feature of the wax guard is calculated based on predefined parameters, and the wax guard is constructed utilizing the calculated side and position. The type of wax guard can be a bell bore design, an open design, a Philip design, or a flip design.
US08135146B2 Equalization method using equal loudness curve based on the IS0266:2003 standard, and sound output apparatus using the same
An equalization method using equal loudness curve, and a sound output apparatus using the same are disclosed. An audio signal is equalized using a standard loudness curve so as to increase a loudness of an audio signal. A sound quality can be significantly enhanced with the enhancement of a sound cleanness and quality when being adapted to a communication apparatus such as a telephone terminal, a transmitter or a repeater. When it is adapted to an audio apparatus such as a MP3, a common audio system, a car audio system, etc., it is possible to enhance a sound cleanness and quality, and a hearing ability. It can be used as a hearing aid.
US08135144B2 Microphone system, sound input apparatus and method for manufacturing the same
A microphone system, includes: a housing, adapted to be placed in a reference position relative to a sound source; a first microphone, configured to receive sound from the sound source at a first position within the housing; a second microphone, configured to receive sound from the sound source at a second position within the housing; and a differential signal generator, wherein: the first and second positions are arranged on a first line; and the first line perpendicularly intersects a second line that is extended from the sound source at a third position which is not between the first and second positions, and obliquely intersects a third line that is extended from the sound source at a fourth position which is between the first and second positions, when the housing is placed at the reference position.
US08135137B2 Sound image localization apparatus
The present invention is to provide a sound image localization apparatus which can prevent the lowering of the amplitude of the sound image localizing signal, the occurrence of clipping, and deterioration of the sound image localization component of the sound image localizing signal. The sound image localization apparatus according to the present invention comprises a frequency component analyzing unit 104 which analyzes the frequency component obtained from the sound source signal, a frequency component analyzing unit 103 which analyzes the frequency component obtained from the head-related transfer function that corresponds to the target position, a frequency component comparing/correcting unit 105 which decides whether a clipping occurs from a particular frequency range by comparing the frequency component of the analyzed sound source signal with the frequency component of the head-related transfer function, and a sound image localization processing unit 106 which outputs to acoustic device, a sound image localizing signal whose amplitude component corresponding to a particular frequency range of the sound source signal or a head-related transfer function is suppressed when the frequency component comparing/correcting unit 105 determines that a clipping has occurred.
US08135136B2 Audio signal enhancement
A device (10) for enhancing a multi-channel (e.g. stereo) audio signal has a parameter adjustment unit (13) for adjusting an original parameter (α, ILD, ICC) which represents an original inter-channel property of the audio signal. The device further comprises a processing unit (11) for processing the audio signal so as to produce an enhanced audio signal having the adjusted parameter (α′, ILD′, ICC′). The device allows stereo widening or other multi-channel signal enhancements without introducing artifacts.
US08135135B2 Secure data protection during disasters
In situations, such as disasters, where the physical protection of data may be compromised, algorithmic protection of such data can be increased in anticipation of the disaster. An off-site mechanism can send a disaster preparation script to computing devices expected to be affected, resulting in the deletion of decryption keys from those computing devices. Once the disaster passes, the off-site mechanism, upon receiving confirmation of the physical integrity of the computing devices, can return one or more decryption keys to the computing devices, enabling access algorithmically protected data. The off-site mechanism can also optionally provide access information that can be used to obtain access to the algorithmically protected data via at least one returned decryption key.
US08135127B2 Method and apparatus for detecting and responding to events occurring on remote telephone
A process and a system are disclosed for detecting activity, e.g., three way calling, call forwarding, or the like, during a phone call. The process includes, and the system is configured for, establishing the call path between a first party and a second party, adding a reference tone to the call path, observing a reflected tone from the call path, and determining a relationship between the reference tone and the reflected tone. Information relating to the relationship may be reported for further analysis.
US08135124B2 Communicating information pertaining to cancelling of forked call requests
Multiple instances of an incoming call in a unified communication system capable of communicating through multiple networks are provided to devices and/or applications associated with the called party. Upon acceptance or a global rejection of the incoming call through one of the end devices/applications, the remainder are provided a cancellation notice for the forked call request that includes information associated with which end device took the action, what type of action was taken, whether the action was based on automatic policy implementation.
US08135118B2 Communication apparatus and method of controlling same
An incoming call from a public communication network is sensed in a communication apparatus that is capable of switching between an automatic response mode and a manual response mode as a response to an incoming call. If incoming of a specific call signal has been sensed, the response to this incoming call is switched from the automatic response mode to the manual response mode.
US08135115B1 System and method for multi-channel recording
Embodiments of the present invention are directed generally to recording communication of a call utilizing a multi-channel recording technique. According to one exemplary embodiment, inbound communication from each party to a call (e.g., from each communication device that is party to a call) to a recording system is assigned to a separate channel, and communication on each channel is independently recorded. Further, during the call, a control channel is generated that correlates the multiple communication channels. The independently recorded communication channels and control channel may be used to analyze a recorded call from any desired perspective. For instance, communication from a given party may be analyzed in isolation. Further, the control channel enables the recorded multiple communication channels to be correlated such that the communication received (e.g., heard) by any selected party may be accurately re-created for analysis thereof.
US08135112B2 Personnel security screening system with enhanced privacy
The present invention is directed towards processing security images of people subjected to X-ray radiation. The present invention processes a generated image by dividing the generated image into at least two regions or mask images, separately processing the at least two regions of the image, and viewing the resultant processed region images either alone or as a combined image.
US08135110B2 X-ray tomography inspection systems
The present invention is an X-ray scanning system with an X-ray source arranged to generate X-rays from X-ray source positions around a scanning region, a first set of detectors arranged to detect X-rays transmitted through the scanning region, a second set of detectors arranged to detect X-rays scattered within the scanning region, and a processor arranged to process outputs from the detectors to generate image data.
US08135101B2 Data equalisation in a communication receiver wth transmit and receive diversity
A method of performing data equalization in a communication receiver with transmit and receive diversity includes (a) for each i-th receiver antenna and j-th transmitter antenna, calculating a channel response matrix Hi,j from multi-path channel estimates, (b) each i-th receiver antenna, calculating a channel gain matrix Gi from the channel response matrices Hi,j and a scalar noise factor β, (c) calculating the middle column c0 of Gi−1, (d) calculating a filter coefficient vector wi,j from the middle column c0 of Gi−1 of and the Hermitian transpose Hi,jH of the corresponding channel response matrices Hi,j, (e) filtering input data ri received at each i-th receiver antenna with the corresponding filter coefficient vectors wi,j, (f) despreading the filtered input data from each i-th receiver antenna, (g) applying phase compensation to the despread data, and (h) combining the despread data from all antennas to obtain received equalized data.
US08135087B2 Apparatus and method for signal detection using log likelihood ratio
A method for signal detection using a log likelihood ratio in a multi-input multi-output communication system includes reconfiguring the signals received through the reception antennas on the basis of channel characteristics and acquiring candidate groups for each transmission symbol by acquiring a signal constellation of one quadrant with respect to signals generatable for each transmission symbol and signal constellations for the remaining quadrants on the basis of the reconfigured signals.
US08135078B2 Channel profile estimation for OFDM-based communication system
A device and method for performing a channel profile estimation for an OFDM-based wireless communication system uses an averaged frequency coherence metric to select a particular channel profile, which is a current channel profile estimate. The averaged frequency coherence metric is derived using correlations between pilot subcarriers of an OFDM-based signal at predefined subcarrier locations for multiple frames of the OFDM-based signal. The selected channel profile may be used for channel estimation, as well as for link adaptation, to improve the performance of these processes.
US08135076B2 Error concealment apparatus and method
An error concealment apparatus and method that can selectively use error concealment techniques according to an error occurrence rate is disclosed. The error concealment apparatus includes an error detection unit for detecting errors occurring in video frames, first and second error concealment units for concealing the detected errors, and a video output unit for selectively outputting the video frames of which the errors have been concealed by the first and second error concealment units according to the results of error detection.
US08135071B2 Breakpoint determining for hybrid variable length coding using relationship to neighboring blocks
A method, and apparatus, and logic encoded in one or more computer-readable tangible medium to carry out a method. The method is to code an ordered sequence of quantized transform coefficients of a block of image data using a hybrid coding method that includes determining a breakpoint location in the sequence between a low-frequency region and a high-frequency region; coding the low-frequency region using a selected low-frequency variable length coding method; coding the high-frequency region using a selected high-frequency variable length coding method; and coding the location of the breakpoint. The breakpoint location is determined as a function of properties of neighboring blocks such that little if any information needs to be sent to a decoder about the breakpoint of a block or multi-block partition, and the decoder can use the properties of neighboring blocks to determine the breakpoint used to code a to-be-decoded sequence or sequences of a block or a multi-block partition.
US08135070B2 Video coding method and apparatus for calculating motion vectors of the vertices of a patch of an image and transmitting information of horizontal and vertical components of the motion vectors
A method and apparatus for coding an image includes calculation of motion vectors of vertices of a patch in an image being encoded and transmitting information of horizontal and vertical components of the motion vectors of the vertices and information specifying that values of the horizontal and vertical components of a motion vector for each pixel in the patch are integral multiples of 1/d of a distance between adjacent pixels, where d is an integer not less than 2.
US08135069B2 Frame rate conversion method using motion interpolation
A Frame Rate Conversion (FRC) method using motion interpolation is disclosed. The FRC method includes checking the position of a motion vector intersecting an interpolated frame for each block of the interpolated frame, performing motion interpolation by acquiring a motion vector of each vertex of each block using motion vectors adjacent to each vertex, and performing motion interpolation on pixels of each block using the motion vector of each vertex.
US08135067B2 Systems and methods for decoding redundant motion vectors in compressed video bitstreams
The invention is related to methods and apparatus that decode robustly encoded video bitstreams. One embodiment of a decoder can advantageously reconstruct a predictive-coded video object plane (P-VOP) from a standard motion vector and the previous frame; from a redundant motion vector and a frame prior to the previous frame; or from both. Advantageously, this permits the decoder to display a frame based on a reconstructed VOP in the presence of unfavorable environmental conditions, such as interference, delays, and the like, which could otherwise corrupt a previous frame that is used as a reference by a standard decoder, such as a standard MPEG-4 decoder. One embodiment is advantageously backwards compatible with standard MPEG-4 compliant bitstreams and retrieves redundant motion vector information from user data video packets. One embodiment includes at least one extra frame buffer or memory, which stores a reference frame corresponding to a redundant motion vector.
US08135066B2 Control of data processing
Data processing apparatus arranged to receive successive images from a video camera and to receive audio data from a microphone comprises means for detecting inter-image motion in the video images; means for detecting audio signals in the associated audio data satisfying one or more predetermined audio criterion; and activation means, for activating a control function of the data processing apparatus in response to a predetermined sequence of a detection of inter-image motion satisfying one or more predetermined motion criterion and a detection of an audio signal in the associated audio data which satisfies the predetermined audio criteria.
US08135060B2 Picture coding apparatus
A picture coding apparatus, optimizing a data amount of coded picture data without entailing an increase in circuit size and/or power consumption, includes a picture input unit obtaining a moving picture signal Vin. Further, the picture coding apparatus includes a buffer, includes a lead detecting unit detecting a lead portion from the moving picture represented by the moving picture signal Vin, includes a coding unit coding the moving picture signal Vin in the lead portion detected by the lead detecting unit, according to a coding condition for temporary coding, and includes a coding condition generating unit generating a coding condition for actual coding, based on the result of the coding by the coding unit and the coding condition for temporary coding. Additionally, coding unit codes the moving picture signal Vin representing the moving picture including the aforementioned lead portion, according to the coding condition for actual coding.
US08135058B2 Adaptive known signal canceller
An adaptive known signal canceller comprising of a known signal canceller filter responsive to a known signal including a known portion of a transmitted signal, the known signal canceller filter operative to generate a filtered known signal, and a subtractor unit responsive to an input signal and operative to generate an output signal, the subtractor unit configured to subtract the filtered known signal from the input signal to generate an output signal, such that the known portion of the transmitted signal is substantially removed from the input signal. The adaptive known signal canceller further comprising of a known signal canceller update unit, responsive to a desired signal and an output signal and operative to continually adjust the coefficients of the known signal canceller filter based on the difference between the output signal and the desired signal, so that the filter coefficients substantially reflect the impulse response of a channel.
US08135054B2 Processing of interference on a radiofrequency signal by power inversion
The invention relates to a radiofrequency receiver, notably for satellite positioning applications, needing to operate in an environment where interference is dense, notably when it involves pulses transmitted by DME beacons. Below the useful signal suppression threshold, amplitude or power are inverted to improve the dynamic interference response time. Advantageously, the useful signal suppression threshold and the set point power or amplitude are determined by analyzing the amplitude or power probability density function in its part enriched with low amplitude/power samples.
US08135053B2 Laser crystal device
The present disclosure relates to a laser crystal device (1) for short pulse lasers, comprising a container (4), the interior of which is sealed relative to the environment and which contains a technically pure atmosphere with windows (12, 13) in the side walls (12, 13) for the passage of laser radiation (16), which in operation passes through a laser crystal (6), wherein the window (12, 13) has an inclination of the Brewster angle to the beam path of the laser radiation (16) and a mounting (5) for the laser crystal (6) is provided within the container (4), the windows (12, 13) are inclined to each other by double the Brewster angle and are placed at an adequate distance from the laser crystal (6) position, with relation to the laser beam properties, wherein the beam cross section at the windows (12, 13) is sufficiently large in order to guarantee a peak intensity at the windows (12, 13) which is sufficiently reduced in relation to the peak intensity of the laser beam (16) at the laser crystal (6) for avoiding degenerative processes on the windows (12, 13).
US08135052B2 Flexible microcavity structure made of organic materials using spin-coating technique and method of making
A flexible microcavity structure made of organic materials using spin-coating technique for allowing large area structures using a roll-to-roll process. The structure includes at least one first polymer layer, at least one second polymer layer, and a cavity layer. The cavity layer has quantum dots embedded therein for realizing an electrically pumped microcavity emitter. The at least one first polymer layer alternates with the at least one second polymer layer, respectively, to form a pair of distributed Bragg reflecting mirrors. The cavity layer is sandwiched between the pair of distributed Bragg reflecting mirrors.
US08135051B2 Gas laser oscillator
A gas laser oscillator includes a plurality of discharge tube arrays, each discharge tube array including a plurality of electrical discharge tubes, a support mechanism supporting the plurality of discharge tube arrays, and an optical part optically connecting the plurality of discharge tube arrays. The support mechanism includes a discharge tube linking holder and an elastic member. The elastic member joins the discharge tube linking holder to a first support rod arranged at an upper side as seen in a direction of gravity.
US08135049B2 Optical pulse generating apparatus using photoelectric effect of surface plasmon resonance photons and its manufacturing method
In an optical pulse generating apparatus including a metal layer having an incident/reflective surface adapted to receive incident light and output its reflective light as an optical pulse signal, a dielectric layer formed on an opposite surface of the metal layer opposing the incident/reflective surface, and a dielectric layer exciting unit for exciting the dielectric layer on a time basis, the incident light exciting surface plasmon resonance light in the metal layer while the dielectric layer is excited on a time basis, so that an extinction coefficient of the dielectric layer is made negative.
US08135038B2 Digital broadcast system for transmitting/receiving digital broadcast data, and data processing method for use in the same
The present invention is directed to a digital broadcast system and a data processing method. A broadcast signal in which mobile service data and main service data are multiplexed is transmitted and received. Then, in a broadcasting receiver, the program table information including information about a service or a program of an ensemble is parsed according to an identifier of the ensemble in which the mobile service data are multiplexed, in the received broadcast signal. And a mobile service is outputted by using the mobile service data and the parsed program table information.
US08135037B2 Method and apparatus to encode and synchronize a serial interface
The present disclosure is generally directed to a method and apparatus to communicate data between two or more semiconductor devices. In an embodiment, a method includes synchronizing a master device with a slave device, where the master device includes a semiconductor device. Synchronizing includes transmitting a first synchronization marker data pattern via a first serial interface from the master device at a first time, and receiving a second synchronization marker data pattern via a second serial interface at the master device at a second time in response to transmitting the first synchronization marker data pattern. Synchronizing also includes determining, based at least in part on the first time and the second time, a third time when a reply is to be received by the master device in response to a request transmitted from the master device to the slave device.
US08135034B2 Digital broadcast system for transmitting/receiving digital broadcast data, and data processing method for use in the same
The present invention is directed to a digital broadcast system and a data processing method. A broadcast signal in which mobile service data and main service data are multiplexed is transmitted and received. Then, in a broadcasting receiver, the program table information including information about a service or a program of an ensemble is parsed according to an identifier of the ensemble in which the mobile service data are multiplexed, in the received broadcast signal. And a mobile service is outputted by using the mobile service data and the parsed program table information.
US08135030B2 Method and apparatus for interfacing synchronous core network with asynchronous radio network
A method and apparatus for interfacing a synchronous core network with an asynchronous radio network in a next-generation mobile telecommunications system is disclosed. The method for mapping a message in order to interface a synchronous core network with an asynchronous radio network, the radio network having a base station (BS), the base station having a radio resource controller, a radio link controller, a medium access controller and a physical controller, the method comprising the steps of: a) selecting a function necessary to map a synchronous message to an asynchronous message; b) determining whether the synchronous message is to be transmitted to the mobile station or not; c) storing information necessary to map the synchronous message to the asynchronous message if the synchronous message is to transmitted to the mobile station, d) mapping parameters in the synchronous message to those in the asynchronous message, thereby generating the asynchronous message; e) discarding the message not to be transmitted to the mobile station after storing parameters included in the message not to be transmitted onto a predetermined device; and f) transmitting the asynchronous message to the radio resource controller.
US08135024B2 Method and system to reduce interconnect latency
A method and system for reducing arbitration latency employs speculative transmission (STX) without prior arbitration in combination with routing fabric scheduled arbitration. Packets are sent from source locations to a routing fabric through scheduled arbitration, and also through speculative arbitration, to non-contentiously allocate outputs that were not previously reserved in the routing fabric to the speculatively transmitted packets.
US08135023B2 Data packet, system and method for multiple nodes transmitting under AD-HOC network architecture
A system and method are provided for multiple nodes to wirelessly transmit in an Ad-hoc network architecture. First of all, an integration module of the system integrates a multi-node transmission protocol into a reservation column of a data packet. Next, an initial node of the system transmits the integrated data packet. Afterwards, according to the multi-node transmission protocol, one or more bridge node of the system receives the integrated data packet transmitted from the initial node. And finally, according to the multi-node transmission protocol, a destination node of the system receives the integrated data packet transmitted from the bridge node. By means of the proposed system and method, data transmission between multiple nodes is achieved under the Ad-hoc network architecture.
US08135019B2 Mobile virtual LAN
A communication system in which multiple protocols and proxy services are executed by an access point. In one embodiment of the invention, GVRP and GMRP registrations are combined in a single packet when a wireless device roams to a different VLAN. In addition, outbound GVRP and GMRP multicast messages are handled by an access point (also referred to as a GVRP and GMRP “gateway”) such that the wireless device is not burdened with the associated computational overhead. In a further embodiment, a wireless device may dynamically switch between a VLAN-aware state and a VLAN-unaware state depending on the nature of a detected access point. For example, if a relevant access point supports GVRP, the wireless device may operate as a VLAN terminal. If a wireless device is not attached to an access point with a matching VLAN ID, the wireless device sends and receives VLAN tagged frames. If a wireless device configured with a VLAN ID is attached to an access point with a matching VLAN ID, or if the wireless device is attached to a non-VLAN access point, then the wireless device may send and receive raw/untagged frames. In addition to the gateways described below, the ability of a wireless device to detect when it can send untagged frames is considered novel. In another embodiment of the invention, a special ID that is different than the native VLAN ID for a switch port is used for VLAN-unaware devices. This allows such devices that do not issue tagged frames to belong to a single VLAN ID.
US08135017B2 Arrangement and method in a mobile communication network
The invention relates to a method and an arrangement for obtaining efficient radio resource allocation in a mobile communication network comprising a communication network entity (15) and at least one user equipment (18) transmitting data to said mobile communication network entity (15) over a radio interface. A first data transmission from said at least one user equipment (18) is received, whereby said first transmission is decoded and a message (ACK/NACK) based on a result of the decoding is sent on a downlink channel (13) comprising information of said first received data transmission. A second data transmission from said at least one user equipment (18) is received, whereby the power on said downlink channel (13) is adjusted depending on the result of said decoding and the content in said received second data transmission.
US08135016B2 System and method for identifying upper layer protocol message boundaries
Systems and methods that identify the Upper Layer Protocol (ULP) message boundaries are provided. In one example, a method that identifies ULP message boundaries is provided. The method may include one or more of the following steps: attaching a framing header of a frame to a data payload to form a packet, the framing header being placed immediately after the byte stream transport protocol header, the framing header comprising a length field comprising a length of a framing protocol data unit (PDU); and inserting a marker in the packet, the marker pointing backwards to the framing header and being inserted at a preset interval.
US08135012B2 Redundant routing of data in a network
A router for routing data redundantly relative to a network. The router includes a circuit card having a processor, a user port for connecting at least one user device with the processor, and a plurality of interface ports for redundantly connecting the processor with the network to provide active redundant communication with the user device(s). This router can have a small form factor, can be ruggedized, and can provide fast redundant routing through redundant network backbones.
US08135011B2 Method for operating multipoint control system
The present invention provides method for operating a multipoint control system, which includes a plurality of controlled units serially connected and each controlled unit has a execution unit and an interpretive unit having a data processing unit and a memory unit, utilizes start packets pass through every one of controlled units which could be modified and transmitted to the next stage to achieve addressing for all of the system. Specifically, an information stream including a first start packet including a first leading message and a plurality of first data packets are transmitted by a controller, and a first address in the first start packet is modified by data processing unit and transmitted to the next stage. In addition, a first data packet corresponding to the first address is retrieved by the interpretive unit and the execution unit is enabled by the interpretive unit.
US08135005B2 Communication control system, communication control method, routing controller and router suitably used for the same
The object of the present invention is provide a communication control system which can realize a dynamic routing control in units of flows without changing the conventional routing protocol. The routing controller comprises an address information provision requester configured to request the first router to provide address conversion information in accordance with the received predetermined trigger and an address conversion information processing requester configured to request the second router to perform a predetermined processing related to the address conversion information acquired from the first router. The second router comprises an address conversion information manager configured to perform the predetermined processing related to the address conversion information and manage the address conversion information, in accordance with the request from the routing controller, and an address converter configured to change a destination address included in received data based on the address conversion information.
US08134998B2 Radio communication base station apparatus and radio communication method
Provided is a base station capable of performing cell search of all mobile stations having different communicable frequency band widths in a scalable band width communication system to which a multi-carrier communication method such as the OFDM method is applied. The base station includes: a modulation unit (102) for modulating SCH data after being encoded; a sub carrier setting unit (105) for setting one of the sub carriers to a sub carrier (SCH sub carrier) constituting the OFDM symbol for SCH data transmission; and an IFFT unit (106) for mapping the SCH data to the sub carrier set by the sub carrier setting unit (105) among the sub carriers and performing IFFT to generate an OFDM symbol. The sub carrier setting unit (105) sets one of the sub carriers which has a frequency of a common multiple between the sub carrier interval and the cell search interval as an SCH sub carrier.
US08134996B2 Downlink synchronization for a cellular OFDM communication system
The present invention provides a method of operating a base station transmitter. In one embodiment, the method includes providing a cellular downlink synchronization signal having primary and secondary portions, wherein the primary portion is common for all cells and the secondary portion is cell-specific and transmitting the cellular downlink synchronization signal. In another embodiment, the method includes providing a cellular downlink synchronization signal having primary and secondary portions wherein the primary portion employs a corresponding one of a plurality of different primary signals allocated to adjoining transmission cells. The method also includes further providing cell-specific information in the secondary portion and transmitting the cellular downlink synchronization signal. The present invention also provides a method of operating user equipment. The method includes receiving a cellular downlink synchronization signal having primary and secondary portions wherein the secondary portion provides cell-specific parameters and identifying and extracting the secondary portion.
US08134995B2 Mobile ad-hoc network routing based upon hardware address
A system, method, and computer readable medium for mobile ad hoc network routing based upon a hardware address that comprises, identifying a destination node hardware address of a data packet that is outbound from a host node, searching a host node routing table for a destination node route from the host node to the destination node hardware address, routing the data packet to the destination node route in the event that the host node routing table returns a destination node hardware address, appending a flooding packet to the data packet in the event that the host node routing table returns a null destination node hardware address, and broadcasting the data packet to at least one neighbor node if the data packet has the flooding packet appended to it.
US08134994B2 Method of scheduling on downlink and transmitting on uplink dedicated channels
In the scheduling method of the present invention, scheduling grant messages for a user equipment are transmitted beginning in any time slot of a frame for a channel so long as the scheduling grant message does not exceed the frame. The scheduling grant message indicates user equipment is approved to transmit on an uplink dedicated channel. This downlink transmission and subsequent uplink dedicated channel transmission have a timing relationship such that no more than one user equipment will begin transmitting on a respective uplink dedicated channel at a time.
US08134993B2 Method and apparatus for polling transmission status in a wireless communication system
A method for polling transmission status in a wireless communications system includes determining whether a buffer of a transmitter contains at least a packet that has been transmitted, has not been discarded, and has not yet been acknowledged when there is no packet scheduled for transmission or retransmission while a polling procedure is triggered and is not prohibited, selecting a packet in order to transmit a poll, and scheduling the selected packet for retransmission.
US08134992B1 Message-based coexistence interface between wireless devices
A coexistence mechanism for arbitrating between performing operations associated with a first network device and performing operations associated with a second network device coupled to the first network device. The start time of a scheduled operation associated with a second network device is determined based, at least in part, on an activity report message received at a first network device from the second network device. A scheduled operation associated with the first network device is performed if the scheduled operation associated with the first network device can be performed prior to the start time of the scheduled operation associated with the second network device. Otherwise, the priority of the scheduled operation associated with the first network device is compared to the priority of the scheduled operation associated with the second network device to determine whether to grant control of the transmission channel to the first or second network device.
US08134990B2 Defining adaptive detection thresholds
A wireless device (24) receives a reference signal over a radio channel (21). The reference signal may be Positioning Reference Signals (PRS) and/or Common Referencing Signals (CRS), and may be transmitted from a transmitter (22). The wireless device (24) comprises a correlator (100); a reference signal detector (102); a threshold selector (106); and a reference signal analyzer (108). The correlator (100) use a signal received from the radio channel (21) and a replica of the reference signal to provide a correlator output value. The reference signal detector (102) compares the correlator output value with a threshold value to detect presence of a reference signal, and to estimate an arrival time of the reference signal. The threshold selector (106) adapts the threshold value to at least an estimate of a relative amount of noise and interference power in the received signal.
US08134989B2 Session control in SIP-based media services
A method of keeping a SIP application server advised of the status of a SIP client, where the SIP application server lies within both the signaling plane and the media plane for SIP clients and is responsible for accepting SIP clients into and removing them from a SIP session, the method comprising sending keep-alive messages from the SIP client to the SIP application server across the media plane.
US08134985B2 System and method for WLAN multi-channel redundancy for VoIP optimization
A system includes a wireless switch and a plurality of wireless nodes. A mobile device connects to the wireless switch by communicating a packet to the wireless switch via two or more of the plurality of wireless nodes.
US08134983B2 Base station, mobile station, and method of communicating for controlling a transmission time interval
A disclosed base station apparatus includes: a TTI-length determining unit which determines, based on downlink receive quality information transmitted from a mobile station, whether data is to be transmitted in a first TTI with, as a unit, a predetermined period no shorter than a subframe length, or in a second TTI with, as a unit, a period shorter than the first TTI; a number-of-subframes determining unit which determines a number of subframes making up the determined TTI; a reporting unit which reports the determined TTI and the number of subframes making up the determined TTI to the mobile station; and a scheduler which performs scheduling based on the determined TTI and the number of subframes making up the determined TTI.
US08134982B2 Apparatus and method for random access in wireless communication system
An apparatus and method for random access in a wireless communication system are provided. In the method, a random access response message is received. The random access response message is analyzed to determine a status of a random access process. A count variable value is updated according to the status. And the count variable value is compared with at least one reference value to determine a random access period. By adaptively changing the period of periodic ranging in a wireless communication system, the probability of success is increased while the waste of resources is decreased.
US08134980B2 Transmittal of heartbeat signal at a lower level than heartbeat request
A communication system, such as a wireless CDMA system, detects markers with fewer errors by having field units transmit the markers at different power levels (e.g., 9 dB for one marker and 11 dB for another marker). The difference in power levels of the markers allows the base station to identify the request markers using alternative criteria with a low probability of error, where the alternative criteria may include comparing the markers to respective energy level thresholds, monitoring occupancy of time slots, occupancy of mutually exclusive code channels, or combinations thereof. For example, in one particular embodiment, a request marker, which is generally a high priority marker, is transmitted with higher power, which improves the probability of detection and reduces the probability of false detection of the request marker.
US08134976B2 Channel calibration for a time division duplexed communication system
Techniques to calibrate the downlink and uplink channels to account for differences in the frequency responses of the transmit and receive chains at an access point and a user terminal. In one embodiment, pilots are transmitted on the downlink and uplink channels and used to derive estimates of the downlink and uplink channel responses, respectively. Two sets of correction factors are then determined based on the estimates of the downlink and uplink channel responses. A calibrated downlink channel is formed by using a first set of correction factors for the downlink channel, and a calibrated uplink channel is formed by using a second set of correction factors for the uplink channel. The first and second sets of correction factors may be determined using a matrix-ratio computation or a minimum mean square error (MMSE) computation. The calibration may be performed in real-time based on over-the-air transmission.
US08134972B2 Communication system and gateway apparatus
A relay gateway apparatus (HandOver-Gateway (HO-GW) is provided between heterogeneous access networks (a WiMAX access network and a UMB access network). The HO-GW performs conversion of a movement control signal (an Inter-Access Gateway (AGW) handover control signal) and relay of communication data. When the relay is performed, user data from a correspondent node (CN) reaches a wireless terminal (mobile node (MN)) through a host agent (HA) of a core network, an access router ASN-GW, the HO-GW, and a base station eBS.
US08134967B2 Method and apparatus for use in wireless communications
A method (700) of operation in a cellular communication system including at least one base station and, associated with the at least one base station, a plurality of user terminals in sectors to allow separate communications between the base station and the user terminals in different sectors, the method including providing (701, 703) a set of communication resource slots for distribution to the sectors for use in sending uplink traffic data, dividing (705, 707) at least part of the set into groups of slots having equal numbers of resource slots and allocating (709, 711) the groups of slots to the different sectors. A system, a base station and a mobile station operable using the method are also described.
US08134966B2 Transmission device
A transmission device is disclosed that includes a frequency scheduling unit configured to allocate resource blocks as a unit to each user, the resource blocks being blocks of consecutive frequency subcarriers divided from a system bandwidth, constitute a first group including consecutive plural resource blocks, constitute plural second groups, each including one or more resource blocks of the plural resource blocks constituting each first group, and allocate the resource blocks of either the first group or one or more the second groups; a mapping unit configured to allocate transmission data to the resource blocks in accordance with the allocation; and a control information generating unit configured to generate control information with respect to a mobile station to which either the first group or one or more the second groups are allocated.
US08134964B2 Network address assigning and allocating method and routing method for long-thin wireless network
A network address assigning and allocating method and a routing method for a long-thin wireless network are provided. First, a plurality of nodes in the long-thin wireless network is classified into a plurality of clusters, in which nodes ranging from a child node of a bridge node to a next bridge node are classified as the same cluster. Then, a network address is assigned to each of the nodes, in which the network address includes a cluster ID and a node ID, the cluster ID is used for identifying the clusters and for routing a packet between the clusters, and the node ID is used for identifying the nodes in each of the clusters and for routing a packet in the cluster. Thereby, the routing and network transmitting efficiency of the long-thin wireless network can be improved.
US08134959B1 Method for control channel cycle management
A method for control cycle management in a wireless communication system. In accordance with the method, a radio access network (RAN) reserves at least one portion of a control channel cycle on an air interface forward link to carry a set of information, and determines a remaining capacity of the control channel cycle beyond the reserved portion or portions. The RAN the selects as much of the neighbor list as will fit in the remaining capacity and transmits the selected portion of the neighbor list in the control channel cycle.
US08134955B2 Method and apparatus for media independent handover
A method and apparatus for performing a handover are disclosed. An Internet protocol (IP) multimedia subsystem (IMS) client registers with an IMS network and establishes a media independent handover (MIH) session with an MIH application server using a session initiation protocol (SIP). The IMS client establishes a session for IP-based service, (e.g., voice over IP (VoIP)), with a communication peer using an SIP. MIH messages are exchanged for handover with the MIH application server over IP. After handover, the session is resumed. A serving call session control function (S-CSCF) triggers the MIH application server based on a string “MIH services” and a unique identifier included in an INVITE request. The IMS client may send a REFER request to the MIH application server after the handover to resume the session. Alternatively, the IMS client may send a RE-INVITE request to the MIH application server and the communication peer.
US08134953B2 Method of determining characteristics of access classes in wireless communication systems
The present invention provides a method of determining characteristics of access classes in a wireless communication system. In one embodiment, a method is provided for implementation in an access network of a wireless communication system. The method includes mapping, at the access network, a plurality of priority levels to a plurality of access classes. Each access class is associated with at least one parameter used by access terminals to establish a wireless communication link with the access network. The method also includes transmitting, from the access network to a first access terminal, information indicating the mapping of the plurality of priority levels to the plurality of access classes in response to receiving a request to establish a communication session between the first access terminal and the access network.
US08134952B2 PN code based addressing methods and apparatus for airlink communications
Methods and apparatus for communicating between an access terminal (AT) and an Access Point (AP) are described. For communications over the air link, between an AP and an AT a PN (Pseudo-random Noise) code based address is used as an AP identifier, e.g., address. The PN code based address may be based on Pilot PN code based signals received from an AP. Thus, the PN based AP address may be determined from pilot signals received from an AP. The PN based AP address may be a shortened version of a PN code corresponding to an AP, a full PN code corresponding to an AP, or a value which can be derived in a known manner from a PN code corresponding to an AP.
US08134951B2 Framework for managing network data processing elements
In one embodiment an apparatus comprises a transceiver in data communication with an associated network and control logic coupled to the transceiver. The control logic is operable to send data to the associated network and receive data from the associated network via the transceiver. The control logic is configured to determine a network element for processing a data stream. The control logic is configured to acquire the network element from the associated network responsive to determining the network element for processing the data stream.
US08134950B2 Cluster head election in an ad-hoc network
The ad-hoc network includes a plurality of mobile nodes including at least one group of mobile nodes operating as a cluster with a currently elected cluster head node. The mobile nodes include a controller and a wireless communications device cooperating therewith to determine whether the currently elected cluster head node appears inactive and then initiate a token-based cluster head node election based thereon. During the token-based cluster head node election, the cluster mobile nodes generate and transmit tokens having respective token weights, receive tokens from neighboring nodes, selectively retransmit the tokens based upon the token weights, and elect a new cluster head node based upon the token weights.
US08134946B2 System and method for scheduling in relay-assisted wireless networks
A scheduling system and method for use with relay-assisted wireless networks includes accessing feedback from mobile stations in a network and arranging users associated with a relay station in a list in accordance with marginal utilities. A determination of whether the users in the list can be eliminated from feedback overhead by testing conditions for feedback reduction is made. A diversity schedule is generated by employing a weighted bipartite graph with relay channels and access channels and performing a matching method. A transmission schedule is generated for channel usage in accordance with multi-user and channel diversity for mobile users and spatial reuse of channels across relay and access hops by incorporating rate feedback and interference for the mobile stations and the relay stations based upon the matching method applied to a new weighted graph which accounts for traffic loads and fairness as well.
US08134945B2 Apparatus and method for increasing cell capacity through optional signal combining between relay stations in a cellular system using wired relay stations
A method, apparatus and system for increasing cell capacity through optional signal combining between Relay Stations (RSs) in a cellular system using wired RSs is disclosed. The method includes receiving, by a Base Station (BS), an average Carrier-to-Interference ratio (C/I) value of transmission signals from Mobile Stations (MSs) located inside each coverage area, being fed back from the RSs or the MSs in its corresponding cell; classifying the MSs into two groups according to the C/I value; performing resource allocation satisfying a minimum data rate from a corresponding RS, for MSs belonging to a group having a C/I value greater than a preset threshold Γ among the classified groups; performing resource allocation by applying an optional signal combining scheme taking into account two RSs having a highest C/I value, for MSs belonging to a group having a C/I value below the threshold among the classified groups; and allocating all unallocated subchannels of each individual RS in an order of an MS having a high C/I value among MSs of a corresponding RS until there is no more unallocated subchannel of each RS.
US08134936B2 Methods, systems and computer-readable media for dynamically recognizing and processing service order types in a network management system
Methods, systems, and computer-readable media are provided for dynamically recognizing and processing service order types in a network management system. Service type data for a new service order type is registered in a database table while the network management system is operating. Then, a service order is received in the network management system and the service order is parsed to determine if the received service order corresponds with the new service order type based on the service type data registered in the database table. If the service order corresponds with the new service order type, then the service order is processed by the network management system. If the service order does not correspond with the new service order type, then updated service type data may be registered in the database table.
US08134934B2 Tracking network-data flows
A network-equipment-implemented method and apparatus for tracking durations of flows received at a network node in consecutive intervals utilizes two counting bloom filters in ping-pong operation to reduce memory and processing. Identifiers for flows that exceed a predetermined duration or number of intervals are stored in a long-duration flow-identifier table. Hash functions used within the counting bloom filters and optionally used in the long-duration flow-identifier table are chosen to minimize the probability of false positives in the detection of long-duration flows. In some embodiments, flows are sampled to conserve memory and processing resources at the risk of missing detection of some long-duration flows.
US08134931B2 Apparatus and method of generating and maintaining orthogonal connection identifications (CIDs) for wireless networks
A first device is configured to select and utilize a connection identifier (CID) for a peer-to-peer communication connection between the first device and a second device in a wireless communications network. The CID is selected from a predetermined set of a plurality of CIDs. Prior to selecting the connection identifier, the first device monitors a CID broadcast channel to determine whether the CID is being utilized by other nearby connections. If it is determined that the CID is being utilized by another connection in the proximity, a different (unused) CID is selected. A transmission request is transmitted to the second device using a first transmission resource unit within a traffic management channel slot, the first transmission resource unit being determined as a function of the selected CID. The first device transmits traffic data to the second device in a traffic channel slot corresponding to the traffic management channel slot.
US08134930B2 Methods of providing digital data services including comparing predicted and measured levels of performance and related systems and computer program products
A method of providing digital data services between a communications service provider and a customer site over a communications loop may include predicting a level of performance of the communications loop without coupling a modem to the communications loop at the customer site to provide a predicted level of performance of the communications loop. The communications loop may be qualified for an initial qualified level of digital data service based on the predicted level of performance of the communications loop. After qualifying the communications loop, digital data service may be provided over the communications loop at the initial qualified level using a modem coupled to the communications loop at the customer site, and a measured level of performance of the communications loop may be obtained based on data communicated between the communications service provider and the modem over the communications loop. The measured level of performance may then be compared with the predicted level of performance. Related systems and computer program products are also discussed.
US08134928B1 Technique for identifying a failed network interface card within a team of network interface cards
A method for identifying a failed network interface card in a system having two NICs configured as a team includes the steps of transmitting a first data packet from the first NIC to a third NIC, wherein the third NIC is not a member of the team, and transmitting a second data packet from the first NIC to the second NIC or from the second NIC to the third NIC, depending on whether the third NIC responds to the transmission of the first data packet. One advantage of the disclosed method is that it specifically identifies which NIC within the team has failed, which is something that cannot be determined by simply exchanging packets between the two NICs.
US08134926B2 Method for monitoring and reporting events by media gateways
A method for monitoring and reporting events by media gateways comprising presetting the events in the media gateways, monitoring the preset events by the media gateways and reporting the monitoring result to a media gateway controller during operation. The events can include: off-hook, on-hook, dialing, hook flash, network fault, quality alarm, and timer timeout, etc. By presetting the events in the media gateways, a system problem of the media gateways not receiving the events issued by the media gateway controller for various reasons can be avoided. The media gateways can automatically monitor and report the preset events after start up, thereby, improving stability of the system.
US08134923B2 Discovery of virtual private networks
A method is described of discovering at least one Virtual Private Network (VPN) automatically within a network comprising a plurality of network elements including the steps of: discovering the network elements which provide functionality for VPNs within the network; discovering the role of each network element, as identified in the preceding step, comprising identifying network elements whose role is as customer premise equipment (CPE); discovering, for each element identified as customer premise equipment, the VPN the customer premise equipment is associated with.
US08134919B2 Method and device for protecting ethernet tree services
A method and device for protecting Ethernet Tree (E-Tree) services are disclosed. An ID is configured for each branch of the E-Tree. The method includes: determining a branch that needs to perform switching; notifying the ID of the branch that needs to perform switching to a work E-Tree through a root UNI of a protect E-Tree; and switching data over the branch that needs to perform switching from the work E-Tree to the protect E-Tree according to the ID of the branch that needs to perform switching. In the embodiments of the present invention, because an ID is configured for each branch of the E-Tree, the branch corresponding to the ID may be triggered to perform protection switching as required, thus implementing branch switching.
US08134916B2 Stateless, affinity-preserving load balancing
The invention relates to an architecture that facilitates load balancing among a plurality of hosts and preserve session affinity to a given host. An incoming stream of data packets that include packet sessions is input to one or more forwarding mechanisms for forwarding to one or more hosts. The forwarders generate a routing function that takes into consideration host availability, and distributes session packets according to the routing function. A session is distributed to the same host to preserve session affinity. When host availability changes, a new routing function is generated, such that any new session is routed according to the new routing function and existing sessions are routed according to the old routing function. When the old routing function becomes irrelevant, it is phased out. An optimization utilizes a maximally backward compatible hash function to minimize the differences between the old and new routing functions.
US08134914B2 Subcarrier allocation apparatus and method, subcarrier de-allocation apparatus and method in OFDM system
A subcarrier allocating apparatus allocating data to be transmitted to a plurality of orthogonal subcarriers in an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) system is provided. The apparatus includes a logical index generator generating a logical index for allocating a data subcarrier to a physical index, the logical index being included with only data subcarriers and the physical index indicating a location of a substantial subcarrier within a symbol, an intermediate index converter converting the logical index into an intermediate index by performing a given operation on the generated logical index and a pilot location constant, and a physical index converter converting the intermediate index into a physical index based on the number of data subcarriers on the left and right sides of a null subcarrier for insertion of a guard interval formed by the null subcarrier.
US08134913B1 Ultra-wide bandwidth system and method for in-premises wireless networking
An IS-OFDM system for ultra-wideband (UWB) wireless communications that suppresses narrow-band interference, comprising an in-premises base station (IBS) is described. The IBS further comprises an IS-OFDM transceiver for communicating with a plurality of in-premises terminals (ITs) without creating interference outside an in-premises perimeter. Further, a method for operating an IS-OFDM system for ultra-wideband (UWB) wireless communications that suppresses narrow-band interference and provides local area networking services, in-premises distribution of broadcast cable channels and in-premises wireless access and routing to external networks is described, without creating interference outside an in-premises perimeter.
US08134912B2 Apparatus, systems and methods adapted for opportunistic forwarding of uplink short messages in wireless metropolitan area networks
An embodiment of the present invention provides an apparatus, comprising a subscriber station (SS) operable to communicate with a base station (BS) and at least one additional subscriber station (SS) in a wireless metropolitan area network, wherein the at least one additional SS attempts to overhear a first message from the SS and piggy back a second message for the overheard message from the SS's uplink data to the BS with its uplink data.
US08134910B2 Method and apparatus for multiplexing and demultiplexing asynchronous bitstreams
Provided is a method and apparatus for multiplexing bitstreams that are coded to have different frame lengths using asynchronous time alignment, in which, based on the length of each frame of a bitstream selected as a reference bitstream from among bitstreams coded to have different frame lengths by a plurality of coders, the remaining bitstreams except for the reference bitstream are divided and multiplexed.
US08134907B2 Optical head, optical element with diffraction grating, optical disc device and information processing device
An optical head includes a blue-violet laser light source for emitting a blue-violet laser beam, a mirror with a diffraction grating for transmitting and reflecting the blue-violet laser beam at a predetermined ratio, and a front monitor sensor for receiving transmitted light or reflected light from the mirror with a diffraction grating and creating an APC signal for controlling an output of the blue-violet laser light source. The mirror with a diffraction grating includes a first surface which the blue-violet laser beam enters, and a second surface facing the first surface. The first surface and the second surface are mutually parallel. A reflecting coat for transmitting and reflecting the blue-violet laser beam at a predetermined ratio is formed on the first surface, and a diffraction grating is formed on the second surface.
US08134904B2 Information recording method and information recording apparatus for recording medium
A recording method for recording data in basic reproduction unit to a recording medium having a first recording layer and a second recording layer, includes detecting a size of an unrecorded region of the first recording layer while recording data in the basic reproduction unit in the first recording layer, comparing the size of the unrecorded region of the first recording layer with a specified value and stopping recording in the first recording layer at the boundary of the basic reproduction unit when the size of the unrecorded region is smaller than the specified value, and recording a subsequent data in the second recording layer.
US08134897B2 Current gain control system
A current gain control system is described and comprises first and second gain blocks respectively associated with the first and second input channels, wherein first and second gain blocks transmit first and second gain signals in response to receiving first and second input signals; first and second converters adapted to be respectively coupled to the first and second gain blocks, the first and second converters operative for setting gains associated with the first and second input channel and for transmitting first and second converted signals in response to receiving the first and second gain signals; and first and second switches for selectively coupling the first and second converters to first and second channel drivers, respectively, wherein the first and second channel drivers transmit channel gain signals in response to receiving the first converted signal, and the channel gain signal allows control of the gain associated with the input channel.
US08134889B1 Systems and methods for augmenting gunshot location using echo processing features
Systems and methods are disclosed for processing weapon fire information such as gunfire. In one exemplary implementation, there is provided a method of processing gunshot information to determine source location information involving echo/reflection processing features. Moreover, the method may include processing gunshot information received from a source at a sensor having a reflecting surface at a given distance, processing direct arrival time and echo arrival time information, and determining source location information as a function of a virtual sensor calculated behind the surface.
US08134885B2 High-speed compression architecture for memory
Memory design techniques are disclosed that provide a high compression ratio at no loss in speed. The techniques can be embodied, for instance, in heterojunction bipolar transistor (HBT) based ROMs. By embedding compression logic (e.g., XOR) functionality directly into the address decoders and sense amplifiers of the memory device, a high compression ratio is achieved at no loss in speed. For example, the logic-based compression functionality can be directly implemented into the buffers that form the address decoder as well as the sense amplifiers.
US08134884B2 Semiconductor memory device
A semiconductor memory device comprises a memory unit having a first and a second port and including plural banks; a bank address conversion circuit operative to convert a first bank address fed from external into a second bank address different from the first bank address and operative to supply the first bank address to one of the first and second ports and supply the second bank address to the other of the first and second ports; and a write data conversion circuit operative to convert input data fed from external into write data different from the input data and operative to supply the input data to one of the first and second ports and supply the converted write data to the other of the first and second ports.
US08134882B2 Semiconductor device including an anti-fuse element
A semiconductor device includes a first high potential power supply, a second low potential power supply, a third power supply having a potential higher than the first, a fourth power supply having a potential more negative than the second, and an anti-fuse element having a node at each end, one of which is connected to the fourth power supply. A driver transistor has a source connected to the third power supply, a gate connected to a control node and a drain connected to one end of the anti-fuse element. A decoding circuit includes a load transistor connected between the third power supply and the control node and at least one selection transistor connected between the second power supply and the control node. A decision circuit is connected to the first and second power supplies. The decision circuit decides the resistance value of the anti-fuse element. The anti-fuse element is rendered electrically conductive in response to activation of the driver transistor as selected by the decoding circuit. The decision circuit decides whether or not the anti-fuse element has been rendered electrically conductive.
US08134878B1 Signal calibration for memory interface
A method of calibrating memory controller signals within an integrated circuit (IC) can include determining an internal delay of a clock network of the IC and generating a calibrated clock signal by applying a first delay to an uncalibrated clock signal, wherein the first delay is determined by subtracting the internal delay of the clock network of the IC from a bitperiod of the uncalibrated clock signal. The method can include determining a classification of at least one data signal according to timing of positive and negative edges of the at least one data signal in comparison with edges of the calibrated clock signal and aligning at least one of positive or negative edges of the at least one data signal to occur at midpoints between edges of the calibrated clock signal according to the classification of the at least one data signal.
US08134877B2 Semiconductor device having delay control circuit
A first delay circuit and a second delay circuit having different operation conditions from each other, a detection circuit that detects a difference in propagation speed of a pulse signal, which is simultaneously input to the first and second delay circuits, and a setting circuit that generates a selection signal based on a detection result from the detection circuit are provided. The selection signal is supplied to a delay control circuit that generates an operation timing signal by delaying a reference signal, of which a delay amount is controlled by the selection signal. With this arrangement, a necessity to set the delay amount of the delay control circuit with a large design margin can be eliminated considering PVT variation, and as a result, performance degradation can be prevented.
US08134876B2 Data input/output apparatus and method for semiconductor system
A semiconductor memory device includes: a strobe signal reception unit configured to receive a strobe signal and generate a tracking clock signal; a clock reception unit configured to receive a clock signal and generate an internal clock signal; a plurality of data reception units configured to receive parallel data in accordance with the internal clock signal and generate internal data; and a phase control unit configured to control the phase of the internal clock signal to track the tracking clock signal and to compensate for a variation in the phase of the internal clock signal while the data is received.
US08134870B2 High-density non-volatile read-only memory arrays and related methods
In an embodiment, a read-only memory array includes a plurality of word lines, a plurality of bit-lines including first and second bit-lines, and a plurality of memory cells configured to represent data values. Each memory cell can include a transistor having a control terminal coupled to one of the plurality of word lines, a drain terminal, and a source terminal. Connections associated with the drain and source terminals of a particular memory cell can determine a data value represented by the memory cell. The memory cells of the plurality of memory cells that are coupled to less than two bit-lines are configured to represent one values.
US08134866B2 Phase change memory devices and systems, and related programming methods
A method programs a phase change memory device. The method comprises receiving program data for selected memory cells; generating bias voltages based on reference cells; sensing read data stored in a selected memory cell by supplying the selected memory cell with verification currents determined by the bias voltages; determining whether the read data is identical to the program data; and upon determining that the program data for one or more of the selected memory cells is not identical to the corresponding read data, iteratively applying a write current to the one or more selected memory cells.
US08134864B2 Exchange-assisted spin transfer torque switching
In general, the invention is directed to techniques for reducing the amount of switching current that is utilized within a magnetic storage (e.g., MRAM) device. An example apparatus includes a fixed magnetic layer that provides a fixed direction of magnetization, an exchange-coupled magnetic multi-layer structure, and a non-magnetic layer placed between the fixed magnetic layer and the exchange-coupled magnetic multi-layer structure. The exchange-coupled magnetic multi-layer structure includes a recording layer configured to record information and an assisting layer having a lower anisotropy than the recording layer. The exchange coupling between the recording and assisting layers is operable to switch a magnetization direction of the recording layer. In some cases, the exchange-coupled magnetic multi-layer structure may further include a spacer separating the recording and assisting layers and configured to weaken an exchange coupling between the recording and assisting layers.
US08134860B2 Shunted phase change memory
By using a resistive film as a shunt, the snapback exhibited when transitioning from the reset state or amorphous phase of a phase change material, may be reduced or avoided. The resistive film may be sufficiently resistive that it heats the phase change material and causes the appropriate phase transitions without requiring a dielectric breakdown of the phase change material.
US08134859B1 Method of sensing a programmable non-volatile memory element
A non-volatile memory cell including an antifuse element having a programming node and a control node, a capacitor element, a precharge element, an access element, and a leakage element. The antifuse element is configured to have changed resistivity (representing a change in logic state) after the programming node is subjected to one or more voltage pulses. The capacitor element, coupled to the programming node, is configured to provide the one or more voltage pulses to the programming node. The precharge element, coupled to the programming node, is configured to increase the one or more voltage pulses provided to the programming to node. The access element, coupled to the control node, is configured to allow determination of the logic state of the antifuse element based on current flow through the access element. The leakage element is coupled to the control node and configured to modify the current flowing through the access element when the resistivity of the antifuse element has not been changed.
US08134857B2 Methods for high speed reading operation of phase change memory and device employing same
Phase change based memory devices and methods for operating described herein overcome the performance limitations of slow set speeds and long recovery times commonly associated with phase change memory devices, enabling high speed operation and extending their usefulness into high speed applications typically filled by DRAM and SRAM memory.
US08134855B2 Ferroelectric memory and method for testing the same
A driver circuit and a precharge circuit apply, in a test mode, a fixed potential to a bit-line, while applying a second plate-line voltage to a plate-line. Then, the bit-line is switched from a first bit-line precharge potential to a floating state, and the plate-line voltage is raised from the second plate-line voltage to a plate-line voltage.
US08134853B2 High read speed electronic memory with serial array transistors
Providing a serial array semiconductor architecture achieving fast program, erase and read times is disclosed herein. By way of example, a memory architecture can comprise a serial array of semiconductors coupled to a metal bitline of an electronic memory device at one end of the array, and a gate of a pass transistor at an opposite end of the array. Furthermore, a second metal bitline is coupled to a drain of the pass transistor. A sensing circuit that measures current or voltage at the second metal bitline, which is modulated by a gate potential of the pass transistor, can determine a state of transistors of the serial array. Because of low capacitance of the pass transistor, the serial array can charge or discharge the gate of the pass transistor quickly, resulting in read times that are significantly reduced as compared with conventional serial semiconductor array devices.
US08134850B2 Systems and methods for frequency control of a voltage converter
Various embodiments of the present invention provide voltage converters and methods for using such. As one example, a voltage converter is disclosed that includes a transformer, an operational detector, and a controllable oscillator. The transformer includes a first winding and a second winding, and the operational detector provides an electrical output corresponding to an operational characteristic of the transformer. The controllable oscillator provides a clock output with a frequency corresponding to the electrical output. This clock output at least in part controls application of a voltage input to the first winding.
US08134848B2 Closed-loop efficiency modulation for use in AC powered applications
A system and method for closed-loop efficiency modulation for an AC/DC power system is provided. A boost-buck converter and a DC/DC converter connected in series receive a rectified DC feed signal from a AC input signal and deliver a modified DC output to an active load. A controller receives power data at various stages of the system and uses that data to modify a series of trim voltages provided to the feedback inputs of the respective converters to modify each converters output voltage. The controller modifies each converter's output voltage to maximize power efficiency while monitoring other data in the system to ensure the system is operating correctly and safely.
US08134847B2 Circuit arrangement and method for converting an alternating voltage into a rectified voltage
A circuit for converting an alternating voltage into a rectified voltage includes a first transistor having a first terminal, a second terminal, and a control terminal. The first terminal is configured to receive the alternating voltage via an input terminal, and the second terminal is electrically coupled to an output terminal for outputting the rectified voltage. A control circuit includes a first input, a second input, and a first output. The first input is electrically coupled to the first terminal of the first transistor, the second input is electrically coupled to the second terminal of the first transistor, and the first output is coupled to the control terminal of the first transistor. The control circuit is configured to generate a first control signal based on a first voltage at the first input and based on a second voltage at the second input. The conversion circuit also includes a resistive circuit.
US08134845B2 Electromagnetic interference suppressing apparatus for high-frequency signal generation device
The present utility model relates to an electromagnetic interference suppressing apparatus for a high-frequency signal generation device. The high-frequency signal generation device includes an inverter means which is used for converting a direct current signal into a high-frequency alternating current signal, wherein the electromagnetic interference suppressing apparatus includes an electric conductor which is in capacitive or inductive coupling with the high-frequency signal generation device and is connected to the reference zero voltage point of the direct current signal. With the present utility model, the electromagnetic interference generated by the high-frequency signal generation device may be effectively suppressed in the case where a reliable earthing is not achievable. The present utility model relates also to an electronic ballast having the function of suppressing electromagnetic interference, and a fluorescent lamp of a compact type having the function of suppressing electromagnetic interference.
US08134844B2 Portable terminal of slide-down opening and closing type
A portable terminal generally includes a first or main body and a second or sub-body. The sub-body is slidable relative to the main body between a closed position and an opened position. The sub-body is configured to drop downwardly into a stepped-down portion of the main body when the sub-body is in the opened position. At least one biasing device or elastic means may be provided for applying a force for biasing the sub-body to drop downwardly towards the stepped-down portion.
US08134843B2 Server
A server is disclosed, which includes two dividing plates disposed between the side plates, several rails disposed on the side plates and the dividing plates, at least one adapter board module, and several main boards. The dividing plates are parallel to the side plates. Each dividing plate has a position pin. The rails are parallel to the bottom plate. The main boards are slid in the rails. The adapter board module has a support piece and an adapter board. The support piece has position holes to be coupled to the position pins and fix the adapter board module on the dividing plates. The adapter board is disposed on the support piece and has two first gold finger interfaces. Each main board has a second gold finger interface. The first gold finger interfaces are coupled to the second gold finger interfaces, thereby each adapter board is connected to two main boards.
US08134842B2 Systems and methods for converting a computer rear transition input/output (I/O) to front panel I/O
A method for converting a computer rear transition input/output (I/O) to front panel I/O is described. The method includes providing a main board having a first main connector having a first set of pins, and affixing a second main connector having a second set of pins to the main board, where a direction of lengths of the first set of pins is other than parallel to a direction of lengths of the second set of pins.
US08134841B2 Printed-wiring board, method of manufacturing printed-wiring board, and electronic equipment
According to one embodiment, there is provided a printed-wiring board, includes a first base member including a component mounting face, a first electronic component with a through-electrode mounted on the component mounting face, a second base member stacked on the first base member via an insulating layer covering the first electronic component, a hole part provided in the second base member and communicating with the through-electrode of the first electronic component, and a second electronic component mounted on the second base member and circuit-connected directly to the through-electrode via the hole part.
US08134839B2 Junction structure of substrate and joining method thereof
A junction structure and a joining method of substrates are provided that stably can join the substrates and achieve high workability during joining. A second substrate 2 to be joined with solder to a first substrate 1 is bent with elasticity generated by a bending portion 9, and first joints 5 on the first substrate 1 and second joints 6 on the second substrate 2 are joined with solder in a state in which the first substrate 1 is brought into contact with, in a direction that increases the bending angle of the bending portion 9, a part where the joints 6 are formed on the second substrate 2.
US08134834B2 Clamp-type heat sink for memory
A clamp-type heat sink for a memory includes two heat conducting modules, a pivot shaft, and an elastic element. The heat conducting module includes an isothermal vapor chamber plate and a heat dissipating body coupled to the isothermal vapor chamber plate. The heat dissipating body includes a base plate and heat dissipating fins extended from the base plate. The base plate includes a shaft hole for passing the pivot shaft, such that each heat dissipating body is installed serially, and the elastic element is sheathed onto the pivot shaft and includes two elastic arms extended from the elastic element and abutted against each heat dissipating body, such that each isothermal vapor chamber plate is clamped and attached onto an external side of the memory to improve the convenience and integrity of the assembling and removal process to achieve a quick assembling or removal effect and prevent the components from missing.
US08134828B2 Configurable deadfront fusible panelboard
Panelboard assemblies that are configurable by the end user to accommodate user selected fusible switching disconnect devices of different ratings and sizes. Deadfront interfaces are made possible with terminal covers independently operable from a panel door and a reconfigurable branch circuit enclosure cover. An integral load side disconnect switch facilitates selective coordination of feeder circuit loads, and increased interrupting ratings per volume are made possible.
US08134827B2 Solid electrolytic capacitor having thermal compensation
An aspect of the present invention provides a solid electrolytic capacitor that comprises: an anode mainly formed of a valve metal or an alloy thereof; an anode lead terminal a part of which is buried in a side surface of the anode; a dielectric layer formed on surfaces of the anode and mainly formed of an oxide; a conducting polymer layer formed on the dielectric layer; a cathode layer formed on the conducting polymer layer on an outer circumferential surface of the anode, the cathode layer comprising: a carbon layer; and a silver paste layer formed on the carbon layer; a thermal expansion layer provided on the side surface of the anode and on a part of the outer circumferential surface continuing from the side surface; and a rein outer package provided to cover the anode, dielectric layer, cathode layer, and thermal expansion layer, wherein a thermal expansion coefficient in a temperature range lower than a glass transition temperature of the thermal expansion layer is larger than that of each of the silver paste layer and the resin outer package.
US08134823B2 Stacked capacitor structure and manufacturing method thereof
In order to avoid the capacitors in a stacked capacitor structure suiting a miniaturization process from collapsing to cause a short-circuit, separated reinforced structures are used and disposed at the outer-sidewalls of the capacitor, which not only reduces the space occupied by the reinforced structure to increase the surface areas of the upper electrode and the lower electrode of the capacitor, but also allows the capacitor to be deflected but collapse-proof and there are more spaces between the capacitors, so as to solve the filling difficulty problem due to a too small filling space in a successive process of depositing conductive material into the filling space.
US08134822B2 Remote initiator for the remote initiation of explosive charges
A remote initiator for the remote initiation of explosive charges. The remote initiator having: (i) a transmitter with means for generating and transmitting a coded signal and input means for inputting operational commands into the transmitter for generating the coded signal, (ii) at least one receiver adapted to be connected with the explosive charges, the receiver having means for receiving the coded signal from the transmitter and input means for inputting operational commands into the receiver for generating an output signal for the remote initiation of explosive charges upon receipt of a valid transmitted coded signal, (iii) a power source for each of the transmitter and receiver, and dual processing means that are independent of each other are adapted to provide independent control of a firing circuit and adapted to synchronise with each processing means before initiation can occur so as to enhance safety and reliability of the transmitter and receiver and the initiation of the remote initiator.
US08134814B2 Semiconductor device having an ESD protection circuit
A semiconductor integrated circuit, includes an operational amplifier including a first input terminal, a second input terminal, and an output terminal, a first transistor which has a source-drain route connected between an external terminal and a first voltage, and a gate terminal connected to the output terminal of the operational amplifier; and a second transistor which has a source-drain route connected between the first input terminal of the operational amplifier and the first voltage, and a gate terminal connected to the output terminal of the operational amplifier.
US08134813B2 Method and apparatus to reduce footprint of ESD protection within an integrated circuit
An input/output (“I/O”) circuit has a first N-channel metal-oxide semiconductor (“NMOS”) field-effect transistor (“FET”) coupled to the input pin with a silicide block. A first P-channel metal-oxide semiconductor (“PMOS”) FET is directly connected to the input pin, with its N-well electrically coupled to an ESD well bias circuit. An NMOS low-voltage differential signal (“LVDS”) driver is also directly connected to the input pin, and has cascaded NMOS FETs. The first NMOS FET of the LVDS driver is fabricated within a first P-tap guard ring electrically coupled to ground and an N-well guard ring coupled to the ESD well bias. The second NMOS FET of the LVDS driver is fabricated within a second P-tap guard ring electrically coupled to ground.
US08134811B2 Uninterruptible power supply
An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system includes an AC power input configured to receive AC power from a single-phase AC power source or a multi-phase AC power source, a DC power source, an output circuit including a power output, a controllable switch configured to selectively couple at least one of the AC power input and the DC power source to the output circuit, and a processor coupled and configured to affect operation of the output circuit depending upon which of single-phase and multi-phase operation of the UPS is indicated.
US08134808B2 Hard disk drive
A hard disk drive includes a head stack assembly including an actuator arm, a voice coil coupled to a bobbin, and a pivot shaft holder, rotatably coupled to a pivot shaft, disposed between the actuator arm and the voice coil. The hard disk drive also includes at least one magnet, disposed adjacent to the voice coil, which interacts and with the voice coil when current flows in the voice coil, thus generating an electromagnetic force to pivot the actuator arm around the pivot shaft, and a flux fringe prevention layer comprising a magnetic material and coupled to the voice coil, to prevent magnetic flux generated in the magnet being bent in the voice coil.
US08134805B2 Silent retract of heads in a hard disk drive
A hard disk drive with an actuator arm assembly that is coupled to a head and includes a voice coil motor. The drive also includes a drive circuit that provides a drive current to the voice coil motor to move the actuator arm assembly into contact with a magnet. The drive circuit limits an amplitude, and/or changes the pulse width, of the drive current as the actuator arm assembly approaches the magnet. Limiting the amplitude and/or changing the pulse widths reduces any audible noise associated with retracting the heads.
US08134798B1 Disk drive maintaining a substantially constant host transfer rate when reading data from varying data rate data tracks across multiple disk surfaces
A disk drive is disclosed having a plurality of disk surfaces, wherein each disk surface comprises a plurality of data tracks, and each data track comprises a plurality of data sectors. When a read command is received from a host, data is read from first and second data sectors on first and second disk surfaces, respectively, in response to the read command, wherein the first data sector stores data at a first data rate, and the second data sector stores data at a second data rate substantially less than the first data rate. The data is transferred to the host at a substantially constant average transfer rate. In this manner, the disk drive does not appear abnormal to a benchmark program that reads a plurality of data sectors across multiple disk surfaces.
US08134791B2 Disc operation selection
A method of identifying a string or chain of efficient or “good enough” disc operations for processing (a pseudo optimal chain) is provided. A “pseudo optimal chain” comprises a string or chain of operations that, while not necessarily the optimal string or chain, provides an efficient sequence of operations that can be determined by comparing individual operations to predetermined selection criteria. In contrast to a true optimization technique that can require computing up to N! combinations for N operations, the string or chain of efficient or “good enough” disc operations allows for relatively simpler computations.
US08134790B2 Optical mounting and optical component comprising said type of optical mounting
The invention relates to an optical mounting comprising a stationary outer mounting and an inner mounting part embodied to receive an optical element. The aim of the invention is to enlarge the adjustment path in the direction of the optical axis of the optical element that is to be mounted, and as a result, obtaining high stability and rigidity that is perpendicular to the optical axis. Also, the invention aims at keeping the space requirements and the manufacturing and mounting costs as low as possible.
US08134782B2 Transparent optical component having cells filled with optical material
A transparent optical component having cells (1) filled with an optical material is proposed, which has a high transparency. The cells of the component are filled to levels (h1, . . . , h5) which vary randomly, and the variations of which are adapted so as not to cause a perceptible optical defect. To do this, the fill levels of the cells are adapted so that the phase shifts experienced by the light rays (R1, . . . , R5) which pass through the cells have a root mean square deviation of less than one quarter of the wavelength (1). Such a component may in particular be an ophthalmic lens.
US08134779B2 3D image display, aligning system and method thereof
Disclosed is a system for aligning a 3D image display device. The system for aligning the 3D image display device comprises: a display panel showing a left eye image and a right eye image, and having a display panel align mark at a circumference of the display panel; a plurality of 3D filter including a transparent substrate, and a retarder converting a left eye image into a first polarized light and a right eye image into a second polarized light on the transparent substrate; a plurality of 3D filter align mark having a retarder pattern formed at a circumference of the 3D filter on the transparent substrate of the 3D filter, and a reflection plate formed on the retarder pattern; and a vision system taking pictures of the display panel align marks and the 3D filter align marks.
US08134778B2 Monolithic eccentric Mersenne-Cassegrain telescope
A Mersenne-Cassegrain telescope provided in a single block of glass in which opposed parabolic elements are precision milled through diamond turning of a glass boule, with the magnification power of the telescope determined by the differences in focal length between the two parabolas. The result is a volumetrically small telescope with pre-aligned surfaces that are maintained by the structural rigidity of the glass itself and in which thermal coefficients of expansion, vibration and the like have no effect due to the single glass element structure.
US08134775B2 Raman amplifier with signal modulated before stimulated brillouin scattering occurs
An optical amplifier includes a light source that outputs light having an intensity corresponding to a supplied driving power; a modulator that modulates the light output from the light source in response to an input modulation signal; a Raman amplifier that performs Raman amplification on the light modulated by the modulator using a highly-nonlinear medium; and a driver that supplies the driving power to drive the light source and inputs the modulation signal to the modulator. The driver starts inputting the modulation signal to the modulation unit before the intensity of the light propagating through the Raman amplifier exceeds an intensity value at which stimulated Brillouin scattering occurs in the Raman amplifier.
US08134774B2 Dynamically reconfigurable negative index material crossbars with gain
Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to negative index material crossbars that can be electronically controlled and dynamically reconfigured to exhibit a variety of electromagnetic properties. In one aspect, a negative index material crossbar comprises a first layer of non-crossing nanowires, and a second layer of approximately parallel nanowires that overlay the nanowires in the first layer. Resonant elements at nanowire intersections, and a gain material incorporated in the crossbar such that transmitted electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths in a wavelength band of interest is enhanced when the crossbar is flood pumped with pump electromagnetic radiation.
US08134768B2 Light adjusting apparatus
A light adjusting apparatus for use with a small-size image pickup equipment. The light adjusting apparatus includes two substrates, out of which, one has an aperture, a spacing portion which regulates a distance between the two substrates, at least one incident-light adjusting unit which has a shaft member which becomes a center of rotation, and which is turned in a plane perpendicular to an optical axial direction, between the substrates, and at least one driving unit which drives the incident-light adjusting unit. Incident light which passes through the aperture is adjusted by turning the incident-light adjusting unit alternately, to the aperture and to a retracted position which is retracted from the aperture, by the driving unit. The light adjusting apparatus includes a notch which receives the shaft member, formed in the substrate, and a retaining portion which prevents the incident-light adjusting unit from dropping.
US08134762B2 Methods and systems for characterizing regions of substantially-uniform color in a digital image
Aspects of the present invention relate to systems and methods for characterization of background regions of substantially-uniform color in a digital image. According to a first aspect of the present invention, a histogram of the first-channel values of a plurality of image pixels may be formed, and a peak region in the first-channel histogram may be detected. Subsequently a histogram of image values of a second channel may be formed accumulating second-channel values for only those image pixels with first-channel values within the peak region of the first-channel histogram, and a peak region in the second-channel histogram may be detected. An image characteristic may be associated with image pixels with first-channel and second-channel values within the first-channel peak and the second-channel peak regions, respectively.
US08134761B2 Document processing apparatus, method thereof, and program product for executing the method
A document processing apparatus which scans a document is disclosed. The document processing apparatus includes a scanning condition managing unit for managing plural scanning conditions to be applied to the document based on a category of the document, a scanning request obtaining unit for obtaining a scanning request for the document via a network, a document category determining unit, a scanning condition determining unit, and a condition inputting unit. The document is scanned based on the scanning condition determined by the scanning condition determining unit, and the condition inputting unit, based on a result determined by the scanning condition determining unit, replaces a part of the scanning condition to be applied to the document, which is the object of the scanning request, with another scanning condition.
US08134760B2 Achieving convergent light rays emitted by planar array of light sources
Systems and methods are provided for achieving convergent light rays emitted by a planar array of light sources. In one embodiment, an imaging device is provided for inspecting semiconductors or other objects. The imaging device includes one or more imaging lens for imaging light reflected from an object. The imaging device also includes a first light source attached to a planar circuit board and a second light source attached to the planar circuit board. The imaging device further includes a first Fresnel prism for directing light from the first light source toward the object from a first direction and a second Fresnel prism for directing light from the second light source toward the object from a second direction. In one embodiment, the imaging device also includes one or more optical elements for increasing or decreasing the divergence of the light.
US08134753B2 Original size detecting apparatus, original size detecting method, and program for original size detection
An original size detecting apparatus is capable of carrying out accurate original size detection without erroneous detection of the size of an original due to the influence of external scattered light. A CCD reads reflected light of light irradiated from a light source onto an original placed on an original platen glass. Optical sensors detect two open states of the original presser plate, and a scanner controller performs predetermined control corresponding to each of the open states of the original presser plate detected by the optical sensors, to determine the size of the original based on the result of the reading by the CCD.
US08134752B2 Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes a determining section for determining if a value indicative of a size of the background portion in the background pattern is smaller than a predetermined threshold value; and a background pattern correcting section which corrects the background portion and the latent image portion, when the determining section determines that the value is smaller than the threshold value, so that the value indicative of the size of the background portion becomes equal to or larger than the threshold value, and which forms a background pattern having a corrected background portion in which a copy prohibiting pattern is embedded, wherein the image forming section forms on a sheet the background pattern when the determining section determines that the value is smaller than the threshold value, and forms on the sheet the background pattern when the value is equal to or larger than the threshold value.
US08134749B2 Multi-bit-depth error diffusion for the reproduction of color or monochrome images
An image processing system including a lookup table having multi-bit printer output levels and an imaging input level. The imaging input level may be associated with a range of input pixel densities. The system further includes a processor configured to compare the imaging input level with one or more preconfigured threshold output values associated with the printer output levels. The imaging input level may be preferentially weighted to select a printer output level having an increased bit depth.
US08134744B2 Method for setting color conversion condition for use in image forming device, and image forming device
A method for setting a color conversion condition for use in an image forming device. The image forming device includes: a first color conversion unit that converts input image data into first output image data by using a first three-dimensional LUT; and second-first, second-second and second-third color conversion units for sequentially converting the input image data into intermediate image data α and β by using at least one LUT. The method includes: setting, in a form of values expressing a color conversion relationship on a second three-dimensional LUT, a relationship between the intermediate image data α and the intermediate image data β to ensure that first colorimetric data of an image formed on the basis of the first output image data is equal to third colorimetric data of an image that is formed on the basis of image data obtained by sequentially converting the same input image data.
US08134738B2 Data edition system, data edition method, data processing device, and server device
This invention proposes arrangements for implementing processes free of signal degradation without entailing increased strains on transmission. Parameter information such as compression, decoding and editing parameters is stored in a database in correspondence with unique information (UMID). Material data (baseband signal) decoded (from compression) for editing purposes is supplemented with the unique information when transmitted. Where the material data is to be edited or re-encoded, the parameter information about the processes performed previously on the data in question is acquired from the database using the unique information as the key, so that the data is subjected to degradation-free signal processing in reference to the acquired parameter information.
US08134737B2 Printing apparatus and printing method
The printing apparatus of the present invention comprises a scanner unit for reading an image in an original; an instruction unit for receiving an instruction from a user and instructing operation of reading the image with the scanner unit; and a printer unit for printing the image that has been read on a medium. In the printing apparatus of the present invention, each reading operation with the scanner unit is started by receiving an instruction from the user with the instruction unit when the reading operation is to be performed with the scanner unit for a plurality of number of times and a plurality of the images that have been read are to be printed in their respective predetermined positions on the medium. The printing apparatus makes it possible to perform N-up printing of a new procedure that is different from conventional N-up printing.
US08134735B2 Image forming device with storage, printing system, and print-file storage method thereof the renames files
An image forming device and a print file storage method thereof, in which a file name of a print file transmitted from a host apparatus can be automatically modified to a file name designated by a user at a time of storing the file. The image forming device includes a storage part including a folder to store print files transmitted from external apparatuses, a user interface to set a storage environment of the folder so that the file name of the print file can be modified, a controller to control the file name to be modified and stored in the folder according to the set storage environment, when the print file is stored in the folder. When the file name of the print file transmitted from the external apparatuses is stored in a predetermined order according to the file name or a folder name designated by the user, it is possible to automatically modify and store the file name of the print file without input by the user.
US08134733B2 Pre-concatenation execution method and system for automated prepress process nodes
A system and method for configuring a pre-concatenation execution mode for an automated prepress process node. A set of prepress operations can be defined and a multi-part job moved from one prepress operation to next in a determined workflow execution path in response to receiving the multi-part job. Each individual part associated with the multi-part job can be processed as a single entity at each prepress operation. A concatenation node associated with the workflow execution path concatenates the individual processed job parts associated with the multi-part job into a single PDL entity. Such a single coherent approach to process the multi-part jobs before concatenation into the single PDL provides greater and easier flexibility in programming customization options.
US08134730B2 Output control system
The present invention is to provide an output control system in which an information processing apparatus instructs an image output apparatus to output image data, and in which the image output apparatus outputs the image data. The output control system is configured by an image output apparatus 1 and a plurality of information processing apparatuses 7. The information processing apparatus 7 includes an output data creation section 14 which generates output data from image data to be processed. When an image data file to be processed is opened, a control section 13 instructs the output data creation section 14 to generate output data of the first page of the image data to be processed without depending on an output instruction from a user, and transmits the output data to the image output apparatus 1. The image output apparatus 1 temporarily holds the received output data. When the output instruction is inputted from the user, the image output apparatus 1 outputs the temporarily held output data.
US08134728B2 System and method for proximity-based printing
A system and method for proximity-based printing are disclosed. A method may include communicating access point proximity information from an information handling system to a print server, the access point proximity information including information regarding the proximity of the information handling system to one or more network access points. The method may also include receiving printer proximity information from the print server, the printer proximity information based at least on the access point proximity information and including information regarding the proximity of the information handling system to one or more printers. The method may additionally include displaying the printer proximity information to a user interface. The method may further include receiving from the user interface a user selection of a printer and communicating the user selection to the print server.
US08134727B1 Message preview control
Embodiments of the invention relate generally to computing devices and systems, as well as software, computer programs, applications, and user interfaces, and more particularly, to systems, devices and methods to facilitate message preview control. For example, the method may include generating representations for messages to present on an interface, and detecting selection of the representation for the message. Further, the method can include presenting preview information for the message, which can be an electronic facsimile. The representations for the messages can include a representation for an electronic facsimile, as well as a voice message and an email.
US08134726B2 Bi-directional communication between printer and client
A method of enabling bi-directional communication in a point and print (PnP) architecture between a printer and a client includes initiating a PnP installation to receive a printer component at the client from a printer server. The printer component is received at the client from the printer server and a spooler process is enabled on the client to load the printer components on the client. A new thread, which executes in the context of the spooler process such that the new thread inherits the system access token from the spooler process, is used to copy the printer component to the system folder on the client. From the new thread, the printer component is registered and executed from the system folder in an elevated system context.
US08134724B2 Policy based system and method for optimizing output device submission, use and wait times
Disclosed is a system and method for optimizing submission of output jobs to a network of output devices, using an output job manager to assign jobs to devices. The assignments are done automatically, based on policies associated with users, output devices, organizations responsible for the output devices, and the system as a whole. User output preferences are expressed as one or more user policies. System and organizational constraints associated with users and output devices and the managing of groups of output devices are also expressed as policies. An optimizing scheduler calculates tradeoffs between user preferences, and factors in constraints to optimize submission of jobs to output devices, and to optimize use and wait times on the output devices.
US08134722B2 Image forming apparatus, method of controlling the same, program, storage medium, printing system, and method suitable for the printing system
There is provided an image forming apparatus capable of realizing a trial printing function that minimizes unnecessary consumption of time and supplies. Images that are inputted are accumulated in a memory. An output mode is set and a setting is made as to whether trial printing is to be carried out in the output mode or not. A CPU provides control to read out a corresponding image from the memory according to the set output mode and form the readout image on a sheet. When it is determined that the trial printing is to be carried out during image formation according to the set output mode, the CPU provides control to set the number of trial print pages according to predetermined conditions and carry out the trial printing for the set number of trial print pages.
US08134721B2 Direct-printing systems and methods
A printer having a direct-printing function for reading and printing data stored in a storing unit, the printer including a connecting device, a user storage that stores user information including information of users permitted to print using the direct-printing function, a reading unit that reads identification information from data stored in the storing unit, a determining unit that determines whether the identification information corresponds to the user information, a direct-printing controlling unit that permits printing of the data using the direct-printing function if the determining unit determines that the identification information corresponds to the user information and prohibits printing of the data using the direct-printing function if the determining unit determines that the identification information does not correspond to the user information, and a print-executing unit executing printing if the direct-printing controlling unit permits printing of the data using the direct-printing function.
US08134717B2 Dimensional detection system and associated method
An improved dimensional detection system is portable and can be used to characterize a workpiece. The dimensional detection system employs as few as a single focused light source and as few as a single camera along with a calibration data set to convert the illuminated pixels of an image of a beam on the workpiece into a cloud of real world points in space on an outer surface of the workpiece. The cloud of points can be processed to characterize the workpiece, such as by determining the right hexahedron that would encompass all of the real world points in space and which could be used to determine a dimensional weight of the workpiece.
US08134713B2 Variable spectroscopy element, spectroscopy apparatus, and endoscope system
Sensor electrodes and wiring patterns can be formed with fewer processes, and easy assembly without interference between the wires and optical substrates is realized. Provided is a variable spectroscopy element (1) that includes two optical substrates (3a, 3b) that oppose each other at a distance therebetween and that include reflection films (2) on the opposing surfaces; actuators (3c) that change the distance between the optical substrates; sensors (6) having electrode portions (6a, 6b) that detect the distance between the optical substrates on the opposing surfaces; inclined surfaces (5) that are provided on at least one of the optical substrates (3a (3b)), in the outer peripheral parts of the opposing surfaces, and gradually increase the distance from the other optical substrate (3b (3a)) radially outward and in the plate-thickness direction; and connecting patterns (6e, 6f) that are provided on the inclined surfaces (5) and connect wiring patterns (6c (6d)) that connect to the electrode portions (6a (6b)) of the sensor (6) and connecting patterns (6e, (6f)) that are disposed radially outward with respect to the wiring patterns (6c, (6d)) and connect to wires (7) that output signals from the electrode portions (6a, (6b)) to external parts.
US08134709B2 Method of aligning a substrate
In a method of aligning a substrate, a first alignment mark in a single shot region on the substrate may be identified. A second alignment mark in the single shot region may be selectively identified in accordance with the identification of the first alignment mark. The substrate may then be aligned using identified any one of the first alignment mark and the second alignment mark. Thus, although the substrate may be accurately aligned, the accurately aligned substrate may not be determined to be misaligned.
US08134708B2 Method of measuring numerical aperture of exposure machine, control wafer, photomask, and method of monitoring numerical aperture of exposure machine
A method of measuring a numerical aperture of an exposure machine is described. A control wafer having vernier marks thereon and an aberration mask having pinholes therein are provided, wherein each pinhole corresponds to a vernier mark in position. A lithography process using the exposure machine and the aberration mask is performed to the control wafer, so as to form over each vernier mark a photoresist pattern having the same shape of the illumination pattern of the light source of the exposure machine. The numerical aperture of the exposure machine is then derived from a graduation of the vernier mark corresponding to an outer edge of the photoresist pattern.
US08134705B2 Particle imaging systems and methods using acoustic radiation pressure
A method for imaging acoustically manipulated particles includes introducing a fluid containing a population of particles therein to a flow cell; applying acoustic radiation pressure to the flow cell; acoustically focusing the population of particles within the flow cell to concentrate the population of particles; interrogating some of the concentrated population of particles with an interrogation source to obtain an optical signal from some of the population of particles to yield population statistical data; and constructing a sampling matrix of particles from subpopulations of the concentrated population of particles to produce a high content image representative of the population of particles.
US08134700B2 Systems and methods for inspection of stents
A system and method for inspecting stents can involve an inspection camera to take an image of the stent and a computer system for analyzing the image to determine the presence of any coating defects. The determination can be made by masking out a portion of the stent, identifying deviations from a strut edge, and/or highlighting features protruding from a stent external boundary defining an outer diameter. The image can be taken after a focus feedback camera determines the position of the stent.
US08134699B2 Illumination system for optical inspection
Apparatus for generating optical radiation includes a laser, which is configured to operate in multiple transverse modes simultaneously so as to generate an input beam, which is characterized by a first speckle contrast. The transverse modes of the input beam are optically mixed so as to generate an output beam have a second speckle contrast, which is substantially less than the first speckle contrast.
US08134695B2 Glass container stress measurement using fluorescence
An apparatus and method for measurement of the stress in and thickness of the walls of glass containers is disclosed that uses fluorescence to quickly and accurately ascertain both the thickness of the stress layers and the wall thickness in addition to the stress curve in glass containers. The apparatus and method may be used to quickly and accurately measure both the stress in and the thickness of the side walls of glass containers throughout the circumference of the glass containers. The apparatus and method are adapted for large scale glass container manufacturing, and are capable of high speed measurement of the stress in and the thickness of the side walls of glass containers.
US08134693B2 Traffic violation detection, recording and evidence processing system
A traffic violation or event detection, recording and processing system and method is disclosed which includes at least one camera (20 and 30) for monitoring a region under surveillance (31 and 33); means for supplying independently sourced and verifiable time, date and location of a violation; a storing means (54) for storing continuous images taken by the camera; a non-intrusive violation detection means for detecting vehicle presence and movement and for providing an indication of a violation; and processing means for identifying images stored in the storage means and which relate to a violation detected by the violation detection means so that images associated with a violation are identifiable and can be processed to provide evidence of the violation and also identify the vehicle associated with the violation.
US08134692B2 Fog detector and method of placing detector in vehicle
A light emitting element and a light receiving element is placed in such a manner that the light axis of a light emitting element constructing a light emitting circuit and the light axis of a light receiving element constructing a light receiving circuit cross each other. The light pathway length R1, R2 of both the light waves are determined in such a manner that the object light, the light waves via the object pathway, are delayed by π/2 in phase from the reflected light, i.e. relative to light waves via the reflected light pathway. A synchronous detector selects signals having the same phase as the object light from receive signals provided from the light receiving circuit. Accordingly, the fog detector can detect the object light without being influenced of the reflected light, which allows a determination processing device to accurately determine the density of fog.
US08134688B2 Movable body drive method and movable body drive system, pattern formation method and apparatus, exposure method and apparatus, device manufacturing method, and calibration method
A controller measures positional information of a stage within an XY plane using three encoders which at least include one each of an X encoder and a Y encoder of an encoder system, and the stage is driven in the XY plane, based on measurement results of the positional information and positional information (p1, q1), (p2, q2), and (p3, q3) in a surface parallel to the XY plane of a head (an encoder) used for measurement of the positional information. Accordingly, it becomes possible to control the movement of the stage with good precision, while switching the head (the encoder) used for control during the movement of the stage using the encoder system which includes a plurality of heads.
US08134687B2 Illumination system of a microlithographic exposure apparatus
An illumination system of a microlithographic exposure apparatus has an optical axis and a beam transforming device. This device includes a first mirror with a first reflective surface having a shape that is defined by rotating a straight line, which is inclined with respect to the optical axis, around the optical axis. The device further includes a second mirror with a second reflective surface having a shape that is defined by rotating a curved line around the optical axis. At least one of the mirrors has a central aperture containing the optical axis. This device may form a zoom-collimator for an EUV illumination system that transforms a diverging light bundle into a collimated light bundle of variable shape and/or diameter.
US08134685B2 Liquid recovery system, immersion exposure apparatus, immersion exposing method, and device fabricating method
A liquid recovery system is used by an immersion exposure apparatus. The liquid recovery system comprises: a plate that has a first surface and a second surface on the side opposite the first surface; and a liquid recovery part, at least part of which opposes the second surface with a first gap interposed therebetween. The liquid recovery system recovers the liquid on a movable object that opposes the first surface of the plate via the liquid recovery part.
US08134680B2 Manufacturing method of liquid crystal panel
A manufacturing method of a liquid crystal panel 10 includes a panel manufacturing process, a substrate detachment process and a reuse-panel manufacturing process. A first liquid crystal panel 10A and a second liquid crystal panel 10B, which differ from each other in position of a sealant portion 20A, 20B to be formed thereon, are manufactured by the panel manufacturing process. Substrates 17, 18 are detached from a defective liquid crystal panel, i.e., from any one of the first liquid crystal panel 10A and the second liquid crystal panel 10B having a defect, by the substrate detachment process. The reuse-panel manufacturing process manufactures a third liquid crystal panel 10C by attaching the substrate 18A detached from the first liquid crystal panel 10A and the substrate 17B detached from the second liquid crystal panel 10B to each other. The reuse-panel manufacturing process includes a sealant-portion forming process that forms a third sealant portion 20C on the substrate 18A detached from the first liquid crystal panel 10A. The third sealant portion 20C is located to differ in position from both of a first sealant portion 20A on the first liquid crystal panel 10A and a second sealant portion 20B on the second liquid crystal panel 10B.
US08134677B2 Liquid crystal display panel and method of fabricating the same
Provided are a liquid crystal display panel and a method of fabricating the same, which can increase the attachment force of the liquid crystal display panel by forming holes in wires passing through a seal line in a case where a liquid crystal layer is formed by a dropping method, reduce the resistance of the wires by differentiating the width of the holes from the width of the wires with respect to a specific region of the seal line, and prevent an afterimage defect caused by blurring and contamination of the seal line.The liquid crystal display panel comprises: an array substrate having a pixel part and a color filter substrate; a seal line formed along an outer edge of the pixel part to attach the array substrate and the color filter substrate together; a plurality of signal wires for transmitting signals to the pixel part; and holes formed within the signal wires passing through the seal line and filled with a sealant comprising the seal line, wherein the holes are designed to have a different width at an inner side and an outer side of the liquid crystal display panel with respect to a predetermined region of the seal line.
US08134673B2 Liquid crystal display device having rectangular-shaped pixel electrodes overlapping with comb-shaped counter electrodes in plan view
The present invention realizes a bright image display by enhancing a numerical aperture of pixels. At least a portion of a pixel electrode is overlapped to a thin film transistor by way of a first insulation film, the pixel electrode is connected to an output electrode of the thin film transistor via a contact hole which is formed in the first insulation film, the counter electrode is arranged above the pixel electrode by way of a second insulation film in a state that the counter electrode is overlapped to the pixel electrode, the counter electrode is formed at a position avoiding the contact hole formed in the first insulation film as viewed in a plan view, and at least a portion of the counter electrode is overlapped to the thin film transistor.
US08134670B2 Liquid crystal display and panel thereof
A liquid crystal panel according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a substrate, and a pixel electrode arranged on the substrate. The pixel electrode includes a first subpixel electrode and a second subpixel electrode separated from each other, and the second subpixel electrode includes a first electrode part disposed above the first subpixel electrode and a second electrode part disposed below the first subpixel electrode and connected to the first electrode part. At least one first notch is arranged on at least one edge of the first subpixel electrode or the second subpixel electrode.
US08134666B2 Liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal display device of an in-plane switching mode comprises at least optically anisotropic members (A) and (B) and a liquid crystal cell disposed between a pair of polarizers having absorption axes disposed approximately perpendicularly to each other, wherein nzA>nyA and nxB>nzB (nxA, nxB: refractive indices (n) in the direction of the in-plane slow axis; nyA, nyB: n in the in-plane direction perpendicular to the above direction; nzA, nzB: n in the direction of thickness, each at 550 nm); the in-plane slow axes of (A) and (B) are approximately parallel or perpendicular to each other; and the in-plane slow axis of (A) is approximately parallel or perpendicular to the absorption axis of a polarizer closer to (A). The antireflection property, scratch resistance and durability are excellent, the angle of field is wide, and uniform display of images with great contrast can be achieved at any angle of observation.
US08134664B2 Liquid crystal display device
The liquid crystal display device according to this invention comprises: a first substrate having a first polarization layer on a light incident side; a second substrate having a second polarization layer on a light outgoing side; a first birefringent medium disposed between the first polarization layer and the liquid crystal layer; a second birefringent medium disposed between the second polarization layer and the liquid crystal layer; a pixel electrode and a common electrode arranged on one of the first substrate and the second substrate; wherein an absorbing axis of the first polarization layer and an absorbing axis of the second polarization layer form an angle of from 88 degrees to 92 degrees; wherein the liquid crystal layer has a property that an in-plane refractive index anisotropy is induced in the liquid crystal layer by an electric field produced by the pixel electrode and the common electrode.
US08134662B2 Pixel structure of transflective liquid crystal display array substrate and method for fabricating the same
A pixel structure of a transflective liquid crystal display array substrate includes a first patterned conductive layer, a second patterned conductive layer, a transparent patterned conductive layer, a passivation layer, and a patterned reflective metal layer. A first part of the second patterned conductive layer and a first part of the first patterned conductive layer form a first storage capacitor. The first part of the second patterned conductive layer and the transparent patterned conductive layer form a second storage capacitor. The passivation layer is formed to cover the patterned transparent conductive layer and has an opening to expose a part of the patterned transparent conductive layer. The patterned reflective metal layer is formed to cover the passivation layer and electrically connected with the patterned transparent conductive layer via the opening. A method for fabricating the pixel structure of the transflective liquid crystal display array substrate is also disclosed.
US08134655B2 Liquid crystal display
A liquid crystal display is disclosed. The liquid crystal display includes a liquid crystal module including a liquid crystal display panel and a backlight unit underlying the liquid crystal display panel and a printed circuit board (PCB) connected to the liquid crystal display panel through one of a tape carrier package (TCP), on which integrated circuits (ICs) are mounted, and a flexible circuit board. An edge of the liquid crystal module has an inclined surface inclined at an angle smaller than 90° from one of a top surface and a bottom surface of the liquid crystal module. The PCB is faced to the inclined surface.
US08134650B2 Control system and user interface for network of input devices
Apparatus, methods, and systems for centrally and uniformly controlling the operation of a variety of devices, such as communication, consumer electronic, audio-video, analog, digital, 1394, and the like, over a variety of protocols within a network system and, more particularly, a control system and uniform user interface for centrally controlling these devices in a manner that appears seamless and transparent to the user. In a preferred embodiment, a command center or hub of a network system includes a context and connection permutation sensitive control system that enables centralized and seamless integrated control of all types of input devices. The control system preferably includes a versatile icon based graphical user interface that provides a uniform, on-screen centralized control system for the network system. The user interface, which includes a visual recognition system, enables the user to transparently control multiple input devices over a variety of protocols while operating on a single control layer of an input command device. In an alternative embodiment, the control system also enables gated signal pass-through control while avoiding signal jamming.
US08134646B2 Video signal processing device and video signal processing method
According to one embodiment, a video signal processing device includes an input unit to which a brightness signal is input, a high band emphasis unit that extracts a first high band component from the brightness signal and outputs an output signal by adding the first high band component to the brightness signal, an acquisition unit that acquires a first histogram data of brightness levels for one frame of the input brightness signal, and a first processing unit that performs a high band emphasis processing on the input brightness signal based on the first histogram data.
US08134645B2 Combination of recorded program index and EPG
A television system has a television viewing mode and a guide mode. The guide mode includes an electronic program guide (EPG), which provides the viewer program information for tuned programs, and a tape index guide (TIG), which provides information for programs recorded on a video cassette. In both guides, real time images of a program are displayed in a PIP window on the television screen and guide information is displayed in the background. In both guides, the viewer may switch between a currently telecast program or a recorded program. The viewer may access either guide from the television mode and vice versa. In the guide mode, the viewer may independently switch the guide information and the type of program, i.e., tuned or recorded, in the PIP window.
US08134643B2 Synthesized image detection unit
A high quality image is achieved by reducing the occurrence of combing noise in a synthesized image having an inserted image of a different frame frequency. A feature amount of a screen produced by an input interlace-scanned video signal is extracted, a film mode on a screen-by-screen basis from the feature amount extracted is detected, the input interlace-scanned video signal to be a synthesized image is decided from a local area in the screen, and the film mode detection is controlled not to output the film mode detection result, based on the decision result.
US08134638B2 Display with rotatable image capturing module
A display including a first housing, a display panel and an image capturing module is provided. The first housing has a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The display panel is disposed on the first surface. The image capturing module includes a second housing and an image capturing unit. The second housing is mounted on the first housing. The second housing has an opening, which passes through the first surface and the second surface. The two ends of the image capturing unit are respectively pivotally connected to the innerwall of the opening so that the image capturing module is rotatably disposed on the display.
US08134636B2 Autofocusing optical system using tunable lens system
A method for providing auto focus for camera module that is electrically tunable using liquid crystal optical element is provided. The liquid crystal optical element includes substrate layers, insulating layer, three electrodes, liquid crystal layer between the substrate layers, and voltages applied between electrodes to control the optical power of the liquid crystal layer. The liquid crystal layer is coupled onto a camera module for provide auto focus on object located between 10 cm to infinity, achieving a response time at most of about 600 milliseconds. Tuning for the predetermined focal length is provided for liquid crystal optical element when object is located between 10 cm to infinity.
US08134628B2 Methods for capturing and reading out images from an image sensor
Multiple images are captured where the exposure times for some of the images overlap and the images are spatially overlapped. Charge packets are transferred from one or more portions of pixels after particular integration periods, thereby enabling the portion or portions of pixels to begin another integration period while one or more other portions of pixels continue to integrate charge. Charge packets may be binned during readout of the images from the image sensor. Comparison of two or more images having different lengths of overlapping or non-overlapping exposure periods provides motion information. The multiple images can then be aligned to compensate for motion between the images and assembled into a combined image with an improved signal to noise ratio and reduced motion blur.
US08134626B2 Solid-state imaging device, method of driving a solid-state imaging device, and imaging apparatus
A solid-state imaging device includes, on a substrate, a lower electrode, a photoelectric converting layer that is disposed on the lower electrode, and an upper electrode that is disposed on the photoelectric converting layer. The device further includes: a boosting unit which is formed in the substrate, and which supplies a power supply voltage for producing an electric field between the upper electrode and the lower electrode; a wiring portion which electrically connects the output of the boosting unit to the upper electrode; and a low-pass filter which is connected to the output of the boosting unit, and which includes a resistor that is formed by at least a part of the wiring portion.
US08134621B2 Rolling-reset imager
An imaging system comprises a rolling-reset imager that forms an electronic image of an object, a light source illuminating the object with pulsed light, and a bandpass optical filter disposed between the object and the rolling-reset imager. The pulsed light has an illumination frequency spectrum and an illumination pulse width defining an effective exposure time for forming the image of the object. The bandpass optical filter has a frequency pass band permitting transmission of a significant portion of the illumination frequency spectrum while at least approximately inhibiting transmission of at least some light having frequencies outside the illumination frequency band. An imaging method illuminates an object with light in a given frequency range, so that the illumination light reflects from the object along with background light. The method filters the reflected light so as to attenuate at least some of the background light by a greater attenuation factor than the illumination light. The method forms a pixelized electronic image based on the filtered light on a rolling-reset basis.
US08134615B2 Image defect correction apparatus, image defect correction method, and program therefor
An image defect correction apparatus capable of satisfactorily correcting a white vertical line caused by point defects on the same vertical CCD. A first correction value is determined from a difference between an average value of luminance signals obtained by a vertical CCD including one or more point defects and an average value of luminance signals obtained by the vertical CCDs when light-receiving elements face a predetermined ineffective signal region. It is determined to which of regions divided by Y addresses of point defects on the same vertical CCD each of Y-directional positions of luminance signals outputted from a horizontal CCD is positioned. The first correction value is multiplied by a predetermined coefficient corresponding to the determined region to calculate a second correction value with which the luminance signals from the horizontal CCD are corrected.
US08134613B2 Image processing apparatus and method, and image pickup apparatus
The present invention particularly relates to an image processing apparatus in which motion blur contained in a blurred image can be eliminated. An area specifying unit 103 specifies a non-mixed area formed of a foreground area consisting of foreground object components which form a foreground object and a background area consisting of background object components which form a background object, or a mixed area in which the foreground object components and the background object components are mixed. A separating/blur-eliminating unit 1503 simultaneously performs processing for separating the foreground object components and the background object components from the pixel data of the mixed area and processing for eliminating motion blur from the separated foreground object components based on a result obtained by specifying the area. The present invention is applicable to an image processing apparatus in which a difference between a signal detected by an image-capturing device and the real world is considered.
US08134611B2 Image processor, image processing method and recording medium
A correction signal capturing section of a skin color correction processing section of an image processor captures WB-corrected R1G1B1 signal values, a WB inverse correction section performs inverse correction, a YCbCr conversion section converts obtained R2G2B2 signal values into Y1Cb1Cr1 signal values. A skin color pixel region detection section detects pixels corresponding to skin color pixel regions, a skin color correction section performs skin color correction to the Y1Cb1Cr1 signal values and obtains Y2Cb2Cr2 signal values, and a RGB conversion section converts the obtained Y2Cb2Cr2 signal values into R3G3B3 signal values. A WB correction section performs WB correction to the R3G3B3 signal values and obtains R4G4B4 signal values. An output section outputs the image signals of the image reconstructed by applying said R4G4B4 signal values to the skin color pixel regions and by applying said R1G1B1 signal values to the pixel regions other than the skin color pixel regions.
US08134604B2 Camera shake correction device, camera shake correction method and imaging device
Movement of an imaging device is detected using a camera shake detection sensor or a motion vector obtained from an image signal, and camera shake correction is performed by shifting an extraction frame (valid photographing region) within a photographable maximum region based on the motion detection result. When movement of the imaging device is causing a face region located at the edge of the extraction frame to move towards out of the frame, it is determined that the movement is due to camera shake, and the extraction frame is moved so that the face region can stay within the frame. Meanwhile, when movement of the imaging device is causing the face region to move inward within the frame, it is determined that the movement is due to a pan or tilt operation, and position control is performed so that the deliberate movement is not inhibited.
US08134602B2 Amplifier circuit
In a first operational amplifier, an input signal is input to the negative input terminal, a reference voltage is input to the positive input terminal, a feedback path from the output terminal to the negative input terminal is formed, and the input signal is amplified by a predetermined amplification factor. In a second operational amplifier, an output from the first operational amplifier is input to the positive input terminal, the reference voltage is input to the negative input terminal, and a pair of outputs having opposite polarities to each other and used for performing BTL drive of a load are obtained at the output terminal. Using the above arrangement, a low-frequency signal can be amplified.
US08134601B2 Lens barrel having camera shake corrector and photographing apparatus equipped therewith
A camera shake corrector includes: a first moving member that holds an image sensor or a prescribed lens and is capable of moving in a first direction; a first motor that moves the first moving member; a second moving member that holds the first moving member and is capable of moving in a second direction that is different from the first direction; a second motor that moves a second moving member; a single detecting member; and a section to be detected by the single detecting member, which is formed on the first moving member. Initial positions of the first moving member and the second moving member are detected by the section to be detected and the single detecting member.
US08134599B2 Scanning image display apparatus
A scanning image display apparatus includes: a scanning unit rotating a mirror to scan a light flux from a light source; an input unit to input a display condition of an image; and a controller changing a rotation angle of the mirror in the scanning unit in accordance with a signal from the input unit. According to the scanning image display apparatus, the display condition (e.g., size, aspect ratio) of the image can be changed without using trimming.
US08134597B2 Camera system with touch focus and method
Techniques for focusing a camera assembly on a moving object may include generating a preview video signal of a scene containing the object and analyzing the video signal to track movement of the moving object. As part of the analysis, a touch area for a touch sensitive electronic viewfinder of the camera assembly may be established. The touch area corresponds to the moving object and remains active in a former position of the object.
US08134592B2 Associating device
An object of the invention is to make it possible to input memo information for each video material without being conscious of the association with the video material. The associating device according to the invention includes an association determination section 40 for associating a word with a video material by using the input start time information on an inputted word and the photography time information on a photographed video material.
US08134591B2 Display using bidirectionally scanned linear modulator
A method for forming a stereoscopic image forms separate left-eye and right-eye images in a repeated cycle that forms the left-eye image by providing data for lines of the left-eye image, ordered in sequence from a first to a second edge of an image frame, then forms successive lines of modulated light according to the ordered sequence by progressively scanning lines of modulated light across a display surface by rotating a scanning element forward from a first to a second position. The right-eye image is formed by providing data for lines of the right-eye image, ordered in sequence from the second to the first edge of the image frame and forming successive lines of modulated light, progressively scanning the lines of modulated light across the display surface by rotating the scanning element in reverse from the second to the first position. The left-eye image is distinguished from the right-eye image.
US08134583B2 To color flat panel display sub-pixel arrangements and layouts for sub-pixel rendering with split blue sub-pixels
Various embodiments of a sub-pixel octal grouping are disclosed. The octal grouping may comprise three-color (red, green and blue) sub-pixels with blue colored subpixel comprising twice the number of positions within the octal sub-pixel grouping as the red and green colored sub-pixels. Various embodiments for performing sub-pixel rendering on the sub-pixel groupings are disclosed.
US08134581B2 Controlled gap states for liquid crystal displays
The present invention relates to a bistable matrix-addressable display element comprising a substrate, a bistable electrically modulated imaging layer having a reflection maximum, at least one conductor, and at least one field-spreading layer between said bistable electrically modulated imaging layer and said at least one conductor, wherein said field-spreading layer has a sheet resistance (SER) of less than 109 Ohms per square and a method of imaging the display comprising identifying an area to be updated of said bistable matrix-addressable display element, wherein said area to be updated comprises rows of pixels; and applying a sequence of drive signals having a 4-phase approach to image said bistable matrix-addressable display element, which may be characterized as a planar reset, left-slope selection method.
US08134579B2 Method and system for magnifying and displaying local image of touch display device by detecting approaching object
Disclosed are a method and system for magnifying and displaying local image of a touch display device. When an object is detected to be approaching an effective touch zone on a touch surface of a touch panel, the distance or altitude between the approaching object at a position on the effective touch zone of the touch panel where the approaching object heads for and the touch surface of the touch panel is determined. When the distance is less than a first predefined approaching altitude, a target graphic representation associated with the position of the approaching object on the touch panel is first enlarged and then, based on a second predefined approaching altitude, an operation of magnification of the local area or the target graphic representation displayed on a display panel corresponding to the position of the approaching object or execution of an executable object linked to the graphic representation is carried out. The second predefined approaching altitude can be defined as being in contact with the touch surface of the touch panel.
US08134574B2 Conversion table creating device, storage medium storing conversion table creating program, and conversion table creating method
Each of a plurality of polyhedron spaces is defined by a plurality of first vertices. Each of the plurality of first vertices is defined by a plurality of sets of third color data that are defined in the second color space. A color data setting unit sets a plurality of sets of fourth color data that are defined in a first color space in one to one correspondence with the plurality of third color data sets. A second dividing unit divides each of a plurality of polyhedron spaces into a plurality of smaller polyhedron spaces by a division number set for the each polyhedron spaces. Each of the plurality of smaller polyhedron spaces is defined by a plurality of second vertices and the plurality of first vertices. Each of the plurality of second vertices is defined by a plurality of sets of fifth color data defined in the second color space. An interpolation calculation unit calculates a plurality of sets of sixth color data that are defined in the first color space in one to one correspondence with the plurality of second vertices by interpolating the plurality of the fourth color data sets. A conversion table creating unit creates a conversion table based on the fourth color data sets and the sixth color data sets and on the third color data sets and the fifth color data sets.
US08134569B2 Aperture compression for multiple data streams
A hardware-based aperture compression system permits addressing large memory spaces via a limited bus aperture. Streams are assigned dynamic base addresses (BAR) that are maintained in registers on sources and destinations. Requests for addresses lying between BAR and BAR plus the size of the bus aperture are sent with BAR subtracted off by the source and added back by the destination. Requests for addresses outside that range are handled by transmitting a new, adjusted BAR before sending the address request.
US08134565B2 System, module and method of enabling a video interface within a limited resource enabled information handling system
A system, module, and method of enabling a video interface within a limited resource enabled information handling system are disclosed. In a particular form, a processing module can include a processor configured to initiate an outputting of a video signal to a host processing system including a video display. The processing module can further include a Mini-card enabled interface operable to be coupled to the host processing system to the host processing system to allow the video signal to be transmitted there between. The processing module can also include a video output channel configured within the Mini-card enabled interface and accessible to the processor to output the video signal to the host processing system.
US08134559B2 Apparatus and method for adjusting for input latency in an electronic device
Embodiments of methods, apparatuses, devices and systems associated with adjusting for input latency within an electronic are disclosed. An electronic device may receive a user input, such as a user actuation of a device key. A latency adjusted time of the input may be calculated based, at least in part, on a latency of the electronic device in determining the user actuation of the device key. The latency adjusted time may be used to determine a result of the user input.
US08134557B2 Image processing apparatus and image processing method
The present invention provides an image processing apparatus including: a production section configured to determine polygon groups each composed of a predetermined number of polygons juxtaposed in a first direction successively as an object block, which is an object of a production process, in an order in which the polygon groups are juxtaposed in a second direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction and produce apex data of the polygons which compose the object block in a unit of a polygon; and a determination section configured to store image data corresponding to those polygons which are positioned in a boundary portion of an immediately preceding block, which is a preceding object block to the object block, with respect to the object block from among those polygons which compose the immediately preceding block into a storage section for storing the pixel data in a unit of a data block to determine the number of the polygons which compose the polygon groups and are juxtaposed in the first direction.
US08134556B2 Method and apparatus for real-time 3D viewer with ray trace on demand
A computer implemented method of providing a photo-realistic view on demand of a real-time interactive three dimensional simulation, the method comprising: providing a real-time interactive three dimensional simulation; selecting a camera position; and ray tracing the provided real-time interactive three dimensional simulation as a function of the selected camera position, the ray tracing providing the photo-realistic view.
US08134553B2 Rendering three-dimensional objects on a server computer
Technologies are described herein for rendering documents containing three-dimensional objects. A client computer receives a request to display a document. If a program utilized to create the document is not available to display the document, the client computer transmits a request to a server computer to render the document, including the rendering of any three-dimensional objects contained therein. In response to receiving the request, the server computer determines whether the document contains any three-dimensional objects. If the document contains three-dimensional objects, the server computer renders the three-dimensional objects. Once the three-dimensional objects have been rendered, the remaining portion of the document is also rendered. The rendered version of the document is then returned to the client computer in response to the original request to render the document. The rendered document is then displayed on the client computer by a standard viewer application.
US08134551B2 Frontend for universal rendering framework
Embodiments of the invention provide a renderer-agnostic method for representing materials independently from an underlying rendering engine. Advantageously, materials libraries may be extended with new materials for rendering with an existing rendering engine and implementation. Also, new rendering engines and implementations may be added for existing materials. Thus, at run-time, rather than limiting the rendering to being performed on a pre-determined rendering engine, the rendering application may efficiently and conveniently manage rendering a graphics scene on a plurality of rendering engines or implementations.
US08134550B2 Display device, driving method thereof and display driver therefor
A digital driving system for a display includes a scan driver adapted to supply scan signals serially to scan lines of the display, a data driver adapted to supply a first data signal and a second data signal to data lines of the display, a timing controller adapted to control the scan driver and the data driver in accordance with a main clock, and to supply external data to the data driver, and a vertical synchronizing signal synchronizing circuit adapted to synchronize an internal vertical synchronizing signal and an external vertical synchronizing signal.
US08134546B2 Display device and driving method thereof
In order to keep the luminance of a light emitting element constant, the correction is performed by an external device such as a computer, in which case a display device is inevitably complicated and increased in size. Even when degradation characteristics of the light emitting element are previously stored in a computer, the degradation characteristics vary at random depending on hysteresis of the light emitting element; therefore, changes in luminance cannot be corrected. According to the invention, a display device includes a displaying light emitting element provided in a display portion and a plurality of monitoring light emitting elements having the similar characteristics as the displaying light emitting element. At least one of the monitoring light emitting elements is operated under a condition different from the displaying light emitting element, and the ratio of the total amount of charge flowing through the displaying light emitting element to that flowing through the monitoring light emitting element is controlled to satisfy a certain relation in view of luminance degradation. When the one monitoring light emitting element reaches a predetermined voltage or time, the connection is switched from the one monitoring light emitting element to another monitoring light emitting element that has been operated under the same condition as the displaying light emitting element.
US08134545B2 Display apparatus
Provided is a display apparatus capable of reducing the scale of a drive circuit and decreasing the frame. A display area in which pixels are provided in matrix, a scanning line drive circuit for driving scanning lines, and a signal line drive circuit for driving signal lines are provided on a support substrate. The pixel within the display area is constituted with a plurality of dots. Each dot corresponds to a color filter of a certain color. The dot is in a laterally long shape, i.e. in a shape extending in a direction along the scanning lines. In other words, each dot is in a shape extending in parallel with the longitudinal direction of the signal line drive circuit. The color filters are of lateral stripe type, for example.
US08134539B2 Digital picture frame having near-touch and true-touch
A digital picture frame includes a near-touch user interface component that senses when an object is within a predetermined spatial region of the digital picture frame; a true-touch user interface component that senses physical contact with the digital picture frame; and a processor that receives input signals from the near-touch user interface component and the true-touch user interface component and executes device controls based on inputs from both user interface components.
US08134538B2 Touch panel input device and processing execution method
A touch panel input device and a processing execution method eliminates wasteful operations of a user and increases user convenience. If a state determination unit (multiple key press detection unit) detects that multiple operation keys displayed on a touch panel screen were multiply pressed, an operation control unit (first processing execution control unit) controls execution of processing corresponding to any one of the plural operation keys. A waiting unit sets a state, which causes processing to wait for a user to make a selection instruction to select and execute processing corresponding to the other operation key. If the selection instruction is accepted, the operation control unit (second processing execution control unit) controls execution of processing corresponding to the selection instruction so as to select and execute the processing corresponding to the other operation key, following the multiple key press.
US08134537B2 Touch display panel
A touch display panel including a first substrate, a second substrate and a liquid crystal layer is provided. The first substrate includes sensing areas and a non-sensing area outside the sensing areas. Each sensing area is provided with a first electrode thereon. The second substrate includes main spacers, sensing protrusions, first sub-spacers and second sub-spacers. The main spacers are connected to the non-sensing area. The sensing protrusions are corresponding to the sensing area and respectively have a second electrode. A sensing gap exists between each second electrode and the corresponding first electrode. The first sub-spacers are corresponding to the non-sensing area and respectively keep a first sub-spacer gap from the first substrate. The second sub-spacers are corresponding to the non-sensing area and respectively keep a second sub-spacer gap from the first substrate. The sensing gap is greater than the first sub-spacer gap and less than the second sub-spacer gap.
US08134535B2 Display device including integrated touch sensors
A display device including a plurality of sensing units, a plurality of first sensing signal lines, a first output unit, a first sensing output line, and a sensing signal processor. The sensing units are arranged in a matrix and generate a detection signal according to user contact. The first sensing signal lines transfer the detection signal of the sensing unit arranged in a first direction. The second sensing signal lines transfer the detection signal of the sensing units arranged in a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction. The first output unit sequentially outputs the detection signals of the first sensing signal lines. The first sensing output line extends in the second direction for transferring the detection signal of the first output unit. The sensing signal processor determines whether contact is made or not by processing the detection signals of the first sensing signal lines and the second sensing signal lines. The non-display area of the liquid crystal panel assembly can be reduced by sequentially outputting the sensing data signals of the row and column sensing signal lines through the small amount of wiring. Therefore, an IC can be reduced in size.
US08134525B2 Drive circuit for generating a delay drive signal
A drive circuit includes a drive unit coupling with data lines for receiving at least one clock signal and a first enable signal to generate a drive signal to drive data lines, and a delay unit electrically coupled with the drive unit for receiving the clock signal and the first enable signal and generating a second enable signal falling subsequent to the first enable signal in a predetermined time interval.
US08134524B2 Organic electroluminescent light emitting display device
In an organic electroluminescent light emitting display device comprising a plurality of pixels each of which includes an organic electroluminescent element emitting light by a current supplied thereto, a plurality of active elements including a first active element which acquires a data signal and a second active element which regulates the current supplied to the organic electroluminescent element in accordance with the data signal, and a capacitive element storing the data signal, the present invention utilizes a part of the capacitive element arranged in one of the pixels for a light shielding member which shields the plurality of active elements arranged the one of the pixels from light emitted by the organic electroluminescent element arranged therein or another pixel adjacent thereto so as to suppress image quality deterioration and smear appearing in an image display area of the organic electroluminescent light emitting display device.
US08134521B2 Electronically tunable microwave reflector
Exemplary embodiments of a structured surface are described which can efficiently reflect, steer or focus incident electromagnetic radiation. The surface impedance may be adjustable and can impart a phase shift to the incident wave using tunable electrical components of the surface. An array of electrodes interconnected by variable capacitors may be used for beam steering and phase modulation. In an exemplary embodiment, the electrodes have a circular configuration.
US08134519B2 Connection structure between antenna element and coaxial cable connector, and antenna appatatus including the connection structure
A connection structure which electrically connects a connection terminal of an antenna element mounted on a mounting plate to a connection terminal of a coaxial cable connector mounted on the mounting plate, includes a plate-shaped electric connection member which includes an element connection end part electrically connected to the connection terminal of the antenna element and a cable connector connection end part extending away from the element connection end part and having a tapered shape. The connection structure further includes a bar-shaped electric connection member which extends along the cable connector connection end part of the plate-shaped electric connection member and which is electrically connected to the cable connector connection end part. Both the cable connector connection end part of the plate-shaped electric connection member and the bar-shaped electric connection member are electrically connected to the connection terminal of the coaxial cable connector.
US08134515B2 Feedhorn assembly and method of fabrication thereof
An array of feedhorns feeds detected radiation through waveguides to diode-based mixers to produce modulated intermediate frequency (“IF”) signals. The mixers and waveguides are accommodated on a substrate surface and multiple substrates can be layered up to support a two-dimensional array of waveguide openings in a face of a waveguide/mixer block. A feedhorn block is brought into register with this face so that each waveguide opening connects with a feedhorn. An end portion of each feedhorn is drilled into the opening of a respective waveguide. The main feedhorn block and the waveguide/mixer block are then assembled into registration. This method of construction avoids transverse interfaces in the walls of the feedhorns or waveguides just at the point where the transition is made from one to another.
US08134513B2 Combined satellite and broadband access antennas using common infrastructure
A method of installing multiple over-the-air antennas is disclosed. The method includes the steps of mounting a satellite antenna to a installation surface, such that the mounting allows the satellite antenna to be aimed at a satellite, attaching a broadband access antenna to one of the installation surface and a portion of the satellite antenna, such that the attaching allows the broadband access antenna to be aimed at a broadband access source, connecting first wiring from the broadband access antenna to a first downconverter and second wiring from the satellite antenna to a second downconverter, providing outputs of the first and second downconverters to a cable in communication with at least a satellite receiver and positioning, on at least a coarse scale, the satellite antenna and the broadband access antenna such that they are approximately pointed at the satellite and the broadband access source, respectively.
US08134507B2 Mobile electronic device
A mobile electronic device including an appearance, a first antenna and a metal part is provided. The appearance is used to accommodate a substrate. The first antenna is disposed on the substrate, and the metal part is disposed on an external surface of the appearance. During overall operation, the mobile electronic device receives or transmits signals through a first bandwidth radio frequency band by the first antenna and the metal part.
US08134505B2 RF tag and method of manufacturing the RF tag
An RF tag is disclosed that includes an antenna and an integrated circuit connected to the antenna. The antenna includes a first radiating element, a second radiating element, a feeding part connected in series between the first and second radiating elements, and an impedance control part connected parallel to the feeding part. An auxiliary radiating element connected to one or both of the first and second radiating elements is used for radio communication with the integrated circuit before completion of the RF tag, and is not used for radio communication after the completion of the RF tag.
US08134500B2 Method and apparatus for enhanced autonomous GPS
Method and apparatus for locating position of a remote receiver is described. In one example, long term satellite tracking data is obtained at a remote receiver. Satellite positioning system (SPS) satellites are detected. Pseudoranges are determined from the remote receiver to the detected SPS satellites. Position of the remote receiver is computed using the pseudoranges and the long term satellite tracking data. SPS satellites may be detected using at least one of acquisition assistance data computed using a previously computed position and a blind search. Use of long term satellite tracking data obviates the need for the remote receiver to decode ephemeris from the satellites. In addition, position of the remote receiver is computed without obtaining an initial position estimate from a server or network.
US08134497B2 Method and system for location-dependent time-specific correction data
A method and system for delivery of location-dependent time-specific corrections. In one embodiment, a first extended-lifetime correction for a first region is generated. A distribution timetable is used to determine a first time interval for transmitting the first extended-lifetime correction to the first region. The first extended-lifetime correction is then transmitted via a wireless communication network to said first region in accordance with said distribution timetable.
US08134494B1 Simulating the mutual performance of an antenna array coupled to an electrical drive circuit
According to one embodiment, simulating the mutual performance of an antenna array coupled to an electrical drive circuit includes receiving one or more cross-coupling matrices and a number of electrical circuit parameters. Each cross-coupling matrix comprises matrix elements that each represent a cross-coupling factor of one antenna element to another antenna element of the antenna array. The electrical circuit parameters model one or more characteristics of the electrical drive circuit. Performance of the microwave antenna array and the electrical drive circuit in a far-field environment is modeled according to the electrical circuit parameters and the cross-coupling matrices.
US08134492B1 Method for scanning a radar search volume within an allowable scan time
A radar volume in a cued direction is searched with sequential pencil beams. The allowable scan time is limited. The cued direction and uncertainty identify a search face, and the range gives a search volume. The number of beams required to scan the volume is determined, and compared with the maximum time. If less than the maximum, the scan is initiated. If greater than the maximum time, the scan region about the cued volume is subdivided into smaller portions, each of which is scanned sequentially.
US08134490B2 Synthetic aperture radar process
A continually adapted pulse-to-pulse shift, performed in the azimuth direction, of the phase center which is electrically active on the side of the transmitting antenna (Tx; Tx1, Tx2, Tx3), in connection with the SAR antenna control of a multi-aperture SAR system is designed such that, in the case of an existing pulse repetition frequency (PRF) due to the likewise shifted position of the effective phase center of the entire antenna (Tx; Tx1, Tx2, Tx3; Rx; Rx1, Rx2, Rx3), a compensation or complete correction of non-equidistant scanning in the azimuth direction is achieved. The principle of the pulse-to-pulse shift of the position of the effective phase center of the antenna for achieving the best possible equidistant scanning can be expanded to the side of the receiving antenna (Rx; Rx1, Rx2, Rx3) and to multi-aperture antennas. The technological solution proposed by the invention can be advantageously combined with a subsequent digital beam formation on the receiving antenna side.
US08134489B2 System and method for bistatic change detection for perimeter monitoring
A method for monitoring an area that involves transmitting a first electromagnetic wave signal from a mobile platform moving over a ground surface, toward the ground surface. A receiver is used that is located remote from the mobile platform to receive the first electromagnetic wave signal after the signal is reflected from the ground surface. The first electromagnetic wave signal is processed to form a first synthetic aperture radar (SAR) image. Subsequently the receiver is used to receive a second electromagnetic wave signal transmitted from the mobile platform at a time subsequent to transmission of the first electromagnetic wave signal. The second electromagnetic wave signal is then processed to obtain a second SAR image. The first and second SAR images are then coherently analyzed to determine areas of non-correlation between the images.
US08134488B2 Remote controller for portable mobile network device
An exemplary remote controller for a mobile internet device includes a remote control module, a center control module, and a wireless transmitter. The mobile internet device includes a wireless receiver disposed therein. The remote control module generates a control signal. The center control module determines whether the control signal is legal. The transmitter reads out a wireless data from the control signal and transmits to the wireless receiver. A remote control system and method thereof are also provided.
US08134487B2 Asynchronous SAR ADC
An asynchronous analog to digital convertor for converting an analog input signal into a digital output is presented. According to an embodiment, the analog to digital convertor comprises a clock input operable to receive an external clock signal having a clock period, a comparator operable to compare the analog input signal to a reference signal, a digital to analog converter operable to generate the reference signal corresponding to a state of a successive approximation register, and a control block connected to the comparator and to the digital to analog converter. The control block is operable to generate and receive a sequence of control signals according to a successive approximation algorithm, to perform a plurality of comparisons, and to update the state of the successive approximation register thereby generating the digital output.
US08134484B2 Encoding and decoding method and device
A device relating to information processing technologies and including an encoding and decoding method configured to solve the poor decoding quality problem. The method includes: encoding each sample of an input signal to generate an encoded signal of a core layer; comparing residuals of all or a part of the samples of the input signal with encoding thresholds, where the residuals are generated by core layer encoding, and performing encoding according to comparison results to generate an encoded signal of an enhancement layer; and writing the encoded signal of the core layer and the encoded signal of the enhancement layer into a bitstream to generate an encoded signal of the input signal.
US08134475B2 Backlighting remote controls
A remote control includes sensing circuitry operable to detect a user touching the remote control. The remote control further includes a light source operable to backlight user input circuitry of the remote control. Control logic of the remote control activates the light source responsive to the sensing circuitry detecting the user touching the remote control.
US08134472B2 Monitoring systems and methods for monitoring the condition of one or more components of an electrical device
Methods and systems for monitoring a component of an electrical device and/or a brush of a brush holder assembly are provided. One method includes receiving data from a plurality of remote monitoring locations at a central control unit, where the data may be evaluated in order to monitor states of brushes or other components of an electrical device at a plurality of remote electrical facilities. For example, multiple images of a component of an electrical device may be acquired. A comparison of the images, for example, a comparative imaging technique, such as pixel-by-pixel comparison or visual observation, may then be performed in order to evaluate a condition of the brush or other component, such as a threshold and/or anomalous condition of the brush or other component.
US08134469B2 Wireless fuel level sensor for a vehicle fuel tank
A vehicle fuel tank is provided. The vehicle fuel tank includes a housing defining an interior region, a fuel level sensor coupled to the interior region, the fuel level sensor responsive to a fuel pressure, and a radio frequency identification (RFID) device electronically coupled to the fuel level sensor configured to wirelessly transmit a signal indicative of a fuel level in the fuel tank.
US08134467B2 Automated antenna trim for transmitting and receiving semiconductor devices
A radio frequency communication device and methods of testing and tuning an antenna attached thereto are described. A radio frequency communication device comprises internal circuitry and an antenna having a plurality of antenna segments associated therewith. Each antenna segment is associated with the antenna in either series or parallel relation through at least one of a fuse and an antifuse. In testing and tuning, a comparison is made to indicate whether the antenna is too short or too long.
US08134465B2 Registration method and placement assisting apparatus for location information tag
The invention is directed to the provision of a registration method and a placement assisting apparatus that can accurately register an object into a three-dimensional spatial database. More specifically, the invention provides a registration method for a location information tag, includes the steps of acquiring tag information of the location information tag, acquiring coordinate data that indicates scheduled placement information of the location information tag, acquiring positioning data that indicates placement location information of the location information tag, and registering the location information tag into a three-dimensional spatial database when an error between the coordinate data and the positioning data is within tolerance, and also provides a placement assisting apparatus for use in such a registration method.
US08134462B1 Self-contained sensor package for water security and safety
Disclosed is a floating sensor system having a casing that encloses a microcontroller. The microcontroller includes a digital processor and a non-volatile memory. The casing also encloses a data bus that connects the microcontroller to an external environment sensor, an RF transceiver, and a battery. The non-volatile memory includes a history file that maintains a record of events sensed by the external environment sensors. The digital processor is configured to establish a pattern of expected external environmental behavior based on the record of events. The digital processor is also configured to emit a signal through the RF transceiver from the system when an unexpected event occurs.
US08134461B2 Device and method for controlling a lighting system by proximity sensing of a spot-light control device and spotlight control device
The invention relates to controlling a lighting system by proximity sensing of a spotlight control device, particularly to controlling a spotlight generated by a lighting system such as a large LED lighting array by means of a spotlight control device. The invention provides a device (10) for controlling a lighting system (12) by proximity sensing of a spotlight control device (14), wherein a predefined area (24) around the spotlight control device (14) is illuminated if a proximity sensor (16) signals presence of the spotlight control device (14) within the predefined area (24). The invention has the main advantage that it allows to control complex lighting systems containing dozens or even thousands of lighting devices such as large LED arrays with one device, the spotlight control device.
US08134456B2 Turn signal indicator lamp apparatus for a motorcycle, and motorcycle including same
A wire is provided in a turn signal power cord drawn out from a turn signal indicator fixed to a front fork while achieving a good appearance. A turn signal indicator includes a lamp case housing a lamp, and a stay member coupled to the lamp case. The stay member includes an annular collar fitted around a circumference of a front fork shaft. A cord-housing groove is formed in an outer part of the annular collar. A turn signal power cord is drawn out from the lamp case to the annular collar through an arm part to the outside through the groove. The cord-housing groove is covered with a cover, which is formed integrally with a locking member that engages with a slot part of a top bridge, as an anti-rotation component of the apparatus.
US08134453B2 RF communication system
An RF communications system including a controlled apparatus configured to receive a RF signal transmitted from a remote control transmitter on a channel that the controlled apparatus can receive, without providing a response signal to the remote control transmitter. The RF transmitting circuit unit of the remote control transmitter transmits RF signals on all of a number of selected transmission channels in a wireless frequency band, while the RF receiving circuit unit of the controlled apparatus stands by to receive an RF signal on a channel of the selected channels that has a relatively low electric field intensity.
US08134452B2 Methods and systems of receiving data payload of RFID tags
Methods and systems of receiving data payload of RFID tags. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are methods comprising selecting (by each of a plurality of radio frequency identification (RFID) tags) a time window within which to transmit (the selecting to create respective time windows), sending a start signal from a RFID reader to the plurality of RFID tags (the start signal indicative of the start of a first time window), and transmitting a signal by each of the plurality of RFID tags in the respective time windows.
US08134449B2 Method and system for biometric keyboard
A method for training a computing system using keyboard biometric information. The method includes depressing two or more keys on a keyboard input device for a first sequence of keys. The method then determines a key press time for each of the two or more keys to provide a key press time characteristic in the first sequence of keys. The method also determines a flight time between a first key and a second key to provide a flight time characteristic in the first sequence of keys, the first key being within the two or more keys. The method includes storing the key press time characteristic and the flight time characteristic for the first sequence of keys, and displaying indications associated with the first sequence of keys on a display device provided on a portion of the keyboard input device.
US08134448B2 Method and control and data-transmission system for checking the installation location of a safety communications component
A method and also a control and data-transmission system is presented, with which the installation location of at least one safety bus component connected to the control and data-transmission system (10) can be checked.For this purpose, in two separate communications cycles, a respective position identifier, which had been allocated to the safety bus components (60) in a prior configuration process, is transmitted to each safety bus component via a non-safety communications control device (30). The safety bus components compare the position identifiers received in the two communications cycles to the contents of a memory, in which a reference position identifier has already been stored or which is still empty. Based on a comparison of the transmitted position identifier to the reference position identifier and the configuration dataset stored in a safety control device (50), it can be tested whether each safety bus component is connected to the predetermined installation location within the control and data-transmission system (10).
US08134438B2 Electromechanical actuator
The present invention is directed to an inductively driven electromagnetic linear actuator arrangement employing eddy currents induced in an armature by a drive coil to drive the armature. Eddy current focusing fields (Lorentz force) are employed to direct the induced eddy currents to maximize armature speed. The armature includes a shorted driven coil in a DC magnetic field that focuses eddy currents induced by the drive coil in the driven coil. The DC magnetic field can be supplied by one or more permanent magnets. When current is applied to the drive coil, a force is felt by the driven coil in a direction perpendicular to the magnetic field, causing armature movement. Such an actuator is well suited for electrical switching applications including transfer switching applications, circuit breaker applications, and ground fault interrupter applications.
US08134435B2 Flux mitigation
Aspects relate to mitigation of a magnetic field produced by one or more units to be shipped such that a magnitude of magnetic field measured is maintained at or below a threshold level. A counter-flux is applied through the use of one or more magnets, magnet arrays, or a geometrical arrangement of magnet arrays. The strength of the counter-flux is varied by altering size, shape, number, polarity and/or location of the one or more magnets or magnet arrays. The one or more magnets or magnet arrays can be constructed as standard assemblies and/or customized magnet assemblies. Additionally, magnet tiles or configurations can provide a return path for stray field leakage and mitigation. Additionally or alternatively, the placement and orientation of the magnets or magnet arrays allows the flux of one or more units to be mitigated, thus, allowing more than one unit to be shipped at the same time.
US08134421B2 Voltage control oscillator and quadrature modulator
A voltage control oscillator includes: first and second field effect transistors, a drain of one of which is connected to a gate of the other and a drain of the other of which is connected to a gate of the one; third and fourth field effect transistors, a drain of one of which is connected to a gate of the other and a drain of the other of which is connected to a gate of the one; a first inductor connected between the drain of the first field effect transistor and the drain of the second field effect transistor; a second inductor connected between the drain of the third field effect transistor and the drain of the fourth field effect transistor; a third inductor magnetically coupled to the first inductor; a fourth inductor magnetically coupled to the second inductor; a first capacitor that capacitively couples one end of the third inductor and one end of the fourth inductor; and a second capacitor that capacitively couples the other end of the third inductor and the other end of the fourth inductor.
US08134415B2 Electronic circuitry
Electronic circuitry comprising operational circuits of active switching type requiring timing signals, and conductive means for distributing said timing signals to the operational circuits, wherein the timing signal distribution means includes a signal path that has different phases of a drive signal are supplied via active means at different positions about the signal path where that path exhibits endless electro-magnetic continuity without signal phase inversion or has interconnections with another signal path having different substantially unidirectional signal flow where there is no endless electromagnetic continuity between those signal paths and generally has non-linear associated circuit means where the signal path is of a transmission line nature.
US08134414B2 Clock, frequency reference, and other reference signal generator with frequency stability over temperature variation
Exemplary embodiments provide a reference signal generator having a reference or center frequency within a predetermined variance over variations in temperature within a specified range. An exemplary apparatus comprises a reference resonator to generate a first reference signal having a resonant frequency, with the reference resonator having a first temperature dependence; and a plurality of switchable circuits, with at least one switchable circuit providing a second temperature dependence opposing the first temperature dependence to maintain the resonant frequency within a predetermined variance over a temperature variation. A wide variety of switchable circuits are disclosed, including a transistor having an on resistance value greater than a nominal resistance, a resistor coupled to a transistor or other switch, and circuit comprising a first reactance coupled to a first switch, with a second reactance coupled to a resistance and a second switch coupled in series to the second reactance or to the resistance. Various coatings may also be applied to an integrated circuit embodiment, such as a silicone coating on a first surface and a metal layer on a second surface.
US08134413B2 Low-power oscillator
Techniques for synthesizing a signal having a desired frequency from an oscillation signal. In an aspect, a reference signal having a known frequency may be periodically used to determine a ratio between the desired frequency and the frequency of the oscillation signal. The oscillation signal may be decimated by the ratio to generate a synthesized signal having approximately the desired frequency. In an aspect, the decimation may be performed by generating a pulse in response to the output of an accumulator that accumulates in steps of the ratio. To save power, the oscillation signal may be derived from a low-power oscillator, while the reference signal may be turned on only during periodic calibration. Further aspects for improving the frequency accuracy of the synthesized signal are disclosed.
US08134408B2 Power amplification circuit having transformer
In order to realize a wider bandwidth of a frequency characteristic of a power amplification circuit, outputs of differential push-pull amplifiers which are matched at respectively different frequencies are combined together by secondary inductors, and the combined signal is outputted.
US08134404B2 Semiconductor device that degrades leak current of a transistor
A semiconductor device, has a main transistor that is a first-conductivity-type MOS transistor and has the drain connected to a first potential; a first switch circuit that is connected between the source of said main transistor and a second potential; a dummy transistor that is a first-conductivity-type MOS transistor whose source serves also as the source of said main transistor; and a second switch circuit that is connected between the drain of said dummy transistor and said first potential or said second potential.
US08134398B2 Device having gate with two buried portions with different widths
A dummy transistor and a field effect transistor are arranged in a second direction. The dummy transistor is located at least at one end in a second direction.
US08134393B1 Method and apparatus for correcting phase offset errors in a communication device
A frequency synthesizer that utilizes locked loop circuitry, for example delay locked loop and/or phase locked loop circuits is provided with a means for minimizing static phase/delay errors. An auto-tuning circuit and technique provide a measurement of static phase error by integrating the static phase error in the DLL/PLL circuit. A correction value is determined and applied as a current at the charge pump or as a time/phase offset at the phase detector to minimize static phase error. During normal operation the DLL/PLL is operated with the correction value resulting in substantially reduced spur levels and/or improved settling time.
US08134392B2 Phase locked loop
A phase locked loop (PLL) which has a desired frequency characteristic even though a manufacturing process of a semiconductor integrated circuit has fluctuations. The semiconductor integrated circuit includes the PLL and a control unit. The PLL has a phase frequency detector, a loop filter, a voltage controlled oscillator (VCO) and a divider. The VCO comprises a voltage-current converter (VIC) and a ring oscillator. In response to a control voltage, the VIC generates a control current for setting each operating current of the ring oscillator. The control unit switches the PLL to a calibration operating period of its open loop and a normal operating period of its closed loop.
US08134390B2 Signal converter and method thereof
An integrated circuit (IC) type voltage signal converter is provided for integrating with other ICs. The signal converter includes a first chopper circuit module, a second chopper circuit module, a full wave combining module, and a zero point detecting circuit module. Each of the circuit modules may be formed by an IC module. The first and second chopper circuit modules are composed of differential operational amplifiers for converting a high voltage signal into first and second low voltage half wave signals. The full wave combining module combines the first and second low voltage half wave signals to obtain a full wave signal. The zero point detecting circuit module converts the first and second low voltage half wave signals into a square wave having the same frequency of the high voltage signal.
US08134382B2 Semiconductor wafer having scribe line test modules including matching portions from subcircuits on active die
A semiconductor wafer includes a plurality of integrated circuit (IC) die areas for accommodating IC die that include at least a first subcircuit having at least one matched component portion that includes at least two matched devices. The first subcircuit is arranged in a layout on the IC die. A plurality of scribe line areas having a scribe line width dimension are interposed between the plurality of IC die areas. At least one subcircuit-based test module (TM) is positioned within the scribe line areas, wherein the subcircuit-based TMs implement a schematic for the first subcircuit with a TM layout that copies the layout on the IC die for at least the two matched devices in the matched component portion and alters the layout on the IC die for a portion of the first subcircuit other than the matched devices in matched component portion to fit the TM layout of the first subcircuit within the scribe line width dimension.
US08134381B2 Connection board, probe card, and electronic device test apparatus comprising same
A probe card is provided which includes: probe needles electrically contacting input/output terminals of an IC device formed on a semiconductor wafer W; a mount base on which the probe needles are mounted; a support column supporting the mount base, a circuit board having interconnect patterns electrically connected to the probe needles via bonding wires; and a base member and stiffener for reinforcing the probe card. The mount base and the circuit board are noncontact.
US08134379B2 Probe wafer, probe device, and testing system
A probe wafer electrically connected to a semiconductor wafer on which a plurality of semiconductor chips are formed includes: a wafer substrate for pitch conversion including a wafer connection surface and an apparatus connection surface opposing the wafer connection surface; a plurality of wafer connection terminals formed on the wafer connection surface of the wafer substrate for pitch conversion, at least one wafer connection terminal provided for each of the semiconductor chips and electrically connected to an input/output terminal of the corresponding semiconductor chip; a plurality of apparatus connection terminals formed on the apparatus connection surface of the wafer substrate in one-to-one relation with the plurality of wafer connection terminals at an interval different from an interval of the wafer connection terminals, to be electrically connected to an external apparatus; and a plurality of transfer paths, each electrically connecting a corresponding wafer connection terminal to an apparatus connection terminal.
US08134375B2 Capacitive MEMS sensor device
The present invention relates to a capacitive MEMS sensor device for sensing a mechanical quantity. To provide such a capacitive MEMS sensor device which enables fast recovery from (near) sticking after a mechanical overload situation it is proposed that the sensor device comprises: —a first bias voltage unit (V1) for supplying a first bias voltage (Vbias 1) to a first plate of said MEMS sensing element, —a second bias voltage unit (V2) for supplying a second bias voltage (Vbias2) to the second plate of said MEMS sensing element, —a signal processing (20) unit for processing said electrical quantity into an output signal (VOUT), —a comparator unit (21) for comparing said output (VOUT) signal to a reference signal (Vref) for detection of an overload condition of said MEMS sensing element (10) and for outputting a comparator signal, —a control unit (22) for controlling the discharge of said MEMS sensing element (10) in case of an overload condition signalled by said comparator signal by connecting, in case of an overload condition, said first plate to a first discharge terminal (D) during a first time interval (T1) and said second plate to a second discharge terminal (D) during a second time interval (T2).
US08134372B2 Pressure tank fault detector and method
A pressure tank fault detector and method provides a system for detecting a fault in a pressure tank, such as a well water tank. The system includes a current transformer positioned adjacent a pump power wire. A circuit includes a timer, a data recorder, and a system status indicator. When the pump operates, the current transformer sends a signal to the circuit and the timer measures the signal duration. The data recorder logs a short cycle when the timer measures less than a selectable predetermined amount of time. When two or more short cycles are recorded, a signal indicates that a tank fault has been detected. Preferably, the system includes a test circuit and permits a user to select the number of short cycles before the alarm and whether to record only consecutive short cycles. Optionally, the system detects and signals pump cycles that exceed a predetermined excessive run time.
US08134370B2 Semiconductor device and method of controlling electrostatic actuator
A semiconductor device controls an electrostatic actuator having first and second electrodes. A voltage generation unit generates different types of voltages applied to the first and second electrodes. A control unit controls voltages generated by the voltage generation unit to be applied to the first and second electrodes. A capacitance detection unit detects a voltage of the first or second electrode to detect a capacitance between the first and second electrodes. The control unit applies a first voltage between the first and second electrodes and then a second voltage smaller than the first voltage between the first and second electrodes. Thereafter, the control unit switches one of the first electrode or the second electrode to a high impedance state and then changes a voltage applied to the other. The capacitance detection unit detects the amount of change in voltage of the first or second electrode to detect a capacitance between the first and second electrodes.
US08134368B2 Detecting quench in a magnetic resonance examination system
The present invention relates to a magnetic resonance examination system (10) and to a method of operating such a magnetic resonance examination system (10). In particular the present invention relates to a magnetic resonance examination system (10) comprising a superconducting main magnet (20) surrounding an examination region (18) and generating a main magnetic field in the examination region (18), and further comprising a magnetic field gradient system (30) selectively causing alternating gradient magnetic fields in the examination region (18), said magnetic field gradient system (30) being coupled to the main magnet (20). In order to provide a technique to reliably detect a quench of the superconducting main magnet (20) of such a magnetic resonance examination system (10) a detecting device (91) is suggested for detecting an emerging quench of the main magnet (20), said detecting device (91) being adapted to operate in different modes depending on the mode of operation of the magnetic resonance examination system (e.g. ramp-up, ramp-down or continuous operation).
US08134365B2 Methods of in-vitro analysis using time-domain NMR spectroscopy
An in vitro method of determining an analyte concentration of a sample includes placing the sample into a low-field, bench-top time-domain nuclear magnetic resonance (TD-NMR) spectrometer. The NMR spectrometer is tuned to measure a selected type of atom. A magnetic field is applied to the sample using a fixed, permanent magnet. At least one 90 degree radio-frequency pulse is applied to the sample. The radio-frequency pulse is generally perpendicular to the magnetic field. The 90 degree radio-frequency pulse is removed from the sample so as to produce a decaying NMR signal. The decaying NMR signal is measured at a plurality of times while applying a plurality of 180 degree refocusing radio-frequency pulses to the sample. The analyte concentration is calculated from the plurality of measurements associated with the decaying NMR signal and a selected model.
US08134362B1 System and method for recording and monitoring directives for vehicles such as airplanes
A system and method for recording and monitoring directives for vehicles, such as airplanes, according to which directives for the airplanes are recorded and monitored to thereby provide a situational awareness of, for example, a predetermined area of an airport with respect to the airplanes and the movement thereof into, within and/or out of the predetermined area of the airport.
US08134356B2 Operating an integrated circuit at a minimum supply voltage
In one embodiment, an integrated circuit comprises at least one measurement unit configured to generate an output indicative of a supply voltage at which the integrated circuit is operable for a given operating frequency and a control unit coupled to receive the output. The control unit is configured to generate a voltage control output indicative of a requested supply voltage for the integrated circuit responsive to the output. The voltage control output may be output from the integrated circuit for use by circuitry external to the integrated circuit in generating the supply voltage for the integrated circuit.
US08134353B2 Multi-phase power converter and control circuit and method thereof
The present invention discloses a multi-phase power converter, and a control circuit and a control method of the multi-phase power converter. The multi-phase power converter comprises multiple power conversion phases. The method comprises: determining whether to enter a phase-shedding mode; at a first time when entering the phase-shedding mode, disabling at least one of the power conversion phases; and at another time when entering the phase-shedding mode, disabling at least another one of the power conversion phases.
US08134351B2 Four-switch step-down storageless converter
A four-switch step-down storageless DC-DC converter is provided having simultaneously ultra high efficiency of over 99% in an ultra compact size, while also providing a regulation and maintaining fast transient response while in regulation. Because of its storageless feature it is ideal for demanding computer applications, such as VRM (Voltage Regulator Modules), with extremely fast step-load load current change requirements and tight output voltage regulation requiring ultra low output ripple voltages during the transients.
US08134348B2 DC-DC converter
A DC-DC converter includes an error amplifying circuit to output an error signal by amplifying differences between a reference voltage and a feedback voltage for an output voltage generated by switching an output transistor between on and off, a triangular wave generation circuit to generate a triangular wave, a PWM comparison circuit to compares the triangular wave with the error signal and output a duty control signal having a duty ratio based on the comparison, a pulse width control circuit to control a pulse width of the duty control signal output from the PWM comparison circuit, and a drive circuit to drive the output transistor according to a signal output from the pulse width control circuit.
US08134342B2 Method for pulsed charging of a battery in an autonomous system comprising a supercapacitance
The autonomous system comprises an intermittent power source delivering a direct current. A supercapacitance is connected in parallel with the battery and the power source respectively via a first switch and a second switch. Charging of the battery comprises pulsed current charging managed by a control circuit. During a current pulse, the amplitude of the current and the amplitude of the voltage increase at the terminals of the battery are measured. The dynamic internal resistance of the battery is determined from said amplitudes. A maximum acceptable current threshold is determined according to a maximum voltage threshold, to said dynamic internal resistance and to the no-load voltage at the battery terminals. At the next current pulse, the value of the charging current is limited by controlling the closing time of the second switch.
US08134337B2 Electricity storage device having equalization voltage circuit
An electric storage device is disclosed, this device can balance voltages across each one of energy storage devices with each other in a short time even if the voltages disperse in a wide range, and also it can reduce needless power consumption. This device includes the energy storage devices and an equalizing voltage circuit coupled in parallel with the energy storage devices. The equalizing voltage circuit includes a balancing resistor, a balancing switch coupled between respective energy storage devices and respective balancing resistors, a discharging resistor coupled in parallel with the respective energy storage devices and having a smaller resistance value than the balancing resistor, and a discharging switch coupled between the respective energy storage devices and the respective discharging resistors. All the balancing switches and all the discharging switches are turned on during the charge to the energy storage devices, and after the voltages across the respective energy storage devices can be balanced with each other, all the discharging switches alone are turned off.
US08134336B2 Method and system for charging a series battery
Some embodiments of the present invention provide a system for charging a series battery, wherein the series battery is comprised of a set of banks which are connected in series, so that the same charging current passes through each bank. During the charging process, the system measures a voltage across each bank in the set of banks. The system then compares the measured voltage with a target voltage for each bank, and adjusts the charging process based on results of the comparisons between the measured voltage and the target voltage.
US08134333B2 Battery and ultracapacitor device and method of use
A battery and ultracapacitor device for use in a vehicle includes a positive electrode, a first negative electrode, a second negative electrode, a first separator disposed between the positive electrode and the first and second negative electrodes, and a controller communicating with the positive electrode, the first negative electrode, and the second negative electrode. A first negative electrode has a first composition and communicates with the first positive electrode. The second negative electrode has a second composition and is adjacent to the first negative electrode and a second separator. The second negative electrode communicates with the positive electrode and the first negative electrode. The first negative electrode comprises a secondary battery negative electrode. The second negative electrode comprises an ultracapacitor negative electrode.
US08134329B2 Buck converter with improved filter design
A buck converter for use in controlling a motor in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention includes a power input operable for connection to a DC power supply, a switch for selectively connecting the motor to the power supply, a pulse width modulation controller operable to provide a pulse width modulation signal to the switch, wherein the switch connects the motor to the power supply based on the pulse width modulation signal, and a voltage shifting capacitor connected across the switch and in series with a diode. The buck converter may include a shift control device operable to control a voltage across the voltage shifting capacitor.
US08134325B2 Controller
The controller includes a position commander and an error corrector. The position commander outputs a position command value for moving a moving mechanism. The error corrector includes a feedforward controller and a compensator calculator. The feedforward controller performs a feedforward control of the moving mechanism based on the position command value outputted from the position commander and includes a compensator. The compensator calculator calculates a value to be set as the compensator of the feedforward controller based on the position command value outputted from the position commander.
US08134323B2 Bypass and synchronous transfer arrangement for a medium voltage drive control system
A medium voltage variable frequency drive having a 2-high controller configuration with a dual bus system is described. The drive control system includes at least one motor control cabinet housing a fused medium voltage bypass controller, a non-fused transfer controller positioned above the fused medium voltage bypass controller, an extendable output bus coupled to the non-fused medium voltage transfer controller, and an extendable supply bus coupled to the fused medium voltage bypass controller. The drive control system further includes a variable frequency drive cabinet housing a variable frequency drive. The variable frequency drive is coupled to the extendable output bus and a power supply line. The power supply line may be further coupled to the extendable supply bus. The drive control system includes at least one cabling transition cabinet housing cabling between the at least one motor control cabinet, the power supply line, and the variable frequency drive.
US08134322B2 Motor control apparatus
In an automatic transmission position control by a motor, it is determined whether the present instant belongs to a starting period, that is, the present instant is immediately after resetting of a control unit or application of power to it. If it is the starting period, an actual shift position that is detected from an output of an output shaft sensor for detecting a rotation position of a motor is set as an instructed shift position. With this measure, even if the control unit is reset for a certain reason while the vehicle is running, the instructed shift position is not changed in association with the resetting. This prevents trouble that the shift position is switched contrary to the intention of the driver, whereby the reliability of a position switching control can be increased.
US08134321B2 Motor control system for achieving peak torque
In a motor controller, a modified interpolation technique uses an extrapolated torque command for the upper table to improve torque linearity under certain conditions. When the torque command input is greater than the max torque limit of a first look-up table, but less than the maximum torque limit of a second, adjacent look-up table, the desired current command is computed by interpolating between the maximum torque limit of the first table and a revised torque value for the second look-up table, wherein the revised torque value is determined by extrapolating from the maximum torque limit of the first look-up table through a torque value based on the torque command input.
US08134318B2 System and method of current shaping control for retract
A system for implementing current shaping for retract of a voice coil motor (VCM) includes drive circuitry coupled to drive the VCM according to a logic state of the system. Current shaping circuitry is configured to temporarily decrease the bandwidth of a VCM transconductance loop in response to a control signal. The transconductance loop includes at least the VCM, the current shaping circuitry and the drive circuitry. The system also includes logic configured to provide the control signal at an end portion a drive logic state to enter a current shaping logic state as a transition from the drive logic state to a floating logic state to reduce current through the VCM such that acoustic emissions from the VCM are mitigated during the retract.
US08134317B2 Motor controller, motor drive system and pump unit
A motor controller for controlling a permanent magnet motor having a rotor having a permanent magnet and a stator having multiphase windings including a position detector generating and outputting rotor rotational position signal; a waveform data storage storing sinusoidal waveform data; a drive signal output section reading the waveform data from the waveform data storage at timings determined based on the rotational position signal and outputting a voltage signal corresponding to the waveform data to the windings through a drive section; a data history storage storing data corresponding to the voltage signal of previous control period; and an output data modifier that, when outputting the voltage signal in current control period, compares corresponding waveform data with previous waveform data, and if difference between the current and the previous data is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, current output data is modified by a portion of the difference.
US08134316B2 Method for braking an AC motor
A system for braking a motor. The system includes at least one resistor and a contactor connected to the at least one resistor and a motor. The system further includes a variable frequency drive electrically connected to the motor, wherein the variable frequency drive comprises a controller operably connected to the contactor, wherein at least a portion of the contactor closes connecting the at least one resistor to the motor in response to a command from the controller. The variable frequency drive is configured such that motor flux levels may be maintained at a relatively high level as motor torque current is reduced, resulting in a consistently high motor flux level as the motor speed decreases.
US08134315B2 Method and apparatus for stopping servo motor
The servo motor is controlled by a control signal from a control circuit. A common branch line is separated from a positive common line in accordance with information that a safety door is opened. Thus, a first gate drive circuit group is made inoperative. Then, a second gate drive circuit group is operated to thereby short-circuit the U−, V− and W−phases of the motor to place in a regenerative braking state.
US08134312B2 Motor control circuit and power window device
A motor control circuit includes a manipulation unit, a control unit that drives a motor in a normal rotation direction or a reverse rotation direction, a catch detecting unit that detects a foreign substance caught in the opening and closing body, a first relay circuit that connects one of terminals of the motor to a power supply when the motor is driven in the normal rotation direction, a second relay circuit that connects the other terminal of the motor to the power supply when the motor is driven in the reverse rotation direction, a switch element that cuts off connection to the power supply when the normal rotation command is fed into the control unit from the manipulation unit, a detection circuit, and a feed circuit.
US08134309B2 Lamp power tabulation
An operating lamp includes a plurality of illumination elements arranged in discrete groups. The illumination elements include at least one white illumination element, adapted to emit a white light, and multiple colored illumination elements, each adapted to emit a non-white, colored light. The operating lamp also includes a controller in communication with the illumination elements, and one or more storage devices configured to communicate with the controller. Each of the storage devices is associated with one or more of the groups of illumination elements, and each of the storage devices contains a set of power values for each associated group. The controller is configured to control illumination of each group of illumination elements individually, based on the associated power values.
US08134308B2 Method for driving a PTC electrical load element
A method is intended to make it possible to drive a PTC electrical load element with a switching unit with the highest possible operational reliability. For this purpose, the electric current is switched off if a predetermined current threshold value is exceeded, the magnitude of the current threshold value being determined from the operating parameters of the load element.
US08134301B2 Step-up driver with minimal switching frequency
The invention relates to an electronic ballast comprising a step-up converter for operating a discharge lamp. The electronic ballast is embodied in such a way as to disconnect a switching element (T1) in the step-up converter when a maximum current value of the current flowing through the switching element is reached. The electronic ballast comprises a holding circuit (HS) which is provided with a time-function element (R27, C23) and is embodied in such a way that it sets the time-function element (R27, C23) when the switching element (TI) is disconnected and reconnects the switching element after a time interval defined by the time-function element (R27, C23).
US08134298B2 Decorative light string device
The present invention discloses a decorative light string device, which comprises: a power plug receiving AC power, a tail socket coupled to the power plug, and a LED string with one end thereof coupled to the power plug and the other end thereof coupled to the tail socket, wherein each of the power plug and tail socket has a diode and a capacitor coupled to the diode, whereby a DC voltage, which is twice the peak voltage of the AC power, is output to the LED string.
US08134297B2 Ballast for a discharge lamp with adaptive preheating
The present invention relates to an electronic ballast for discharge lamps (LA) which have preheatable electrodes (E1, E2). The electronic ballast has a measuring apparatus (M), which is designed to measure, during the preheating process, a variable, which is correlated with the electrode temperature increased by the preheating, of at least one of the electrodes (E1, E2) of a connected discharge lamp (LA), and a control apparatus (C), which is designed to match the electrode temperature, during the preheating process, in response to the measurement by adjusting an operational parameter of the electronic ballast. Furthermore, the electronic ballast is designed to detect cross discharges or a sufficient operating temperature of one of the electrodes (E1, E2) and possibly to ignite the discharge.
US08134296B2 Regulating circuitry for automobile light systems
A regulating circuit for automobile light for outputting an elevated voltage to power an operation of a driving integrated circuit, comprises a first diode having its anode interconnected to an input of the power supply (forward biased) and interconnected to the first diode in serial (reverse biased) and then interconnected to a driving integrated circuit. The first diode is used to detect a maximum voltage input, and the second diode is used to restore its energy to the capacitor so as to keep the voltage output maintained in an elevated level. As a result, the regulating circuit can be used with all kinds of driving integrated circuit incorporated in the automobile headlight.
US08134293B2 Seal for light emitting display device, method, and apparatus
A glass package is disclosed comprising a first substrate and a second substrate, where the substrates are attached in at least two locations, at least one attachment comprising a frit, and at least one attachment comprising a polymeric adhesive and wherein the frit comprises a glass portion comprising: a base component comprising and at least one absorbing component. Also disclosed is a method of sealing a light emitting display device comprising providing a light emitting layer, a first substrate and a second substrate, where a frit is deposited between the substrates and a polymeric adhesive is deposited either between the substrates or around the edge of the device, and where the frit is sealed with a radiation source and the polymeric adhesive is cured.
US08134289B2 Electrode for cold cathode tube and cold cathode tube employing it
An electrode (1) for cold cathode tube of the present invention includes a cylindrical sidewall portion (2), a bottom portion (3) provided at one end of the cylindrical sidewall portion, and an opening portion (4) provided at the other end of the cylindrical sidewall portion. The electrode is formed of a sintered body of a high melting point metal (W, Nb, Ta, Mo or Re). When an overall length of the electrode is L, an inside diameter of the cylindrical sidewall portion at a position of L/2 is d1, an inside diameter of the bottom portion is d2, and an arc of an inner surface (5) of the cylindrical sidewall portion connecting a portion of the inside diameter d1 and a portion of the inside diameter d2 is R, the electrode satisfies the following condition; L≧6 [mm], d2>d1, R≧20 [mm].
US08134287B1 Low voltage closed drift anode layer ion source
An ion source includes a pair of pole elements, at least one shunt element, and at least one magnetic field producing element that produces a magnetic field. A gap is defined between the pole elements of the pair of pole elements. The at least one magnetic field producing element and the at least one shunt element cooperate to define at least a part of a magnetic field conducting circuit that conducts the magnetic field between the pole elements of the pair of pole elements. The pair of pole elements and the at least one shunt element are formed from a material that consists essentially of ferrous metal having an overall carbon content of less than 0.08 percent.
US08134285B2 Shaped selective thermal emitter
A geometrically shaped photonic crystal structure consisting of alternating layers of thin films is heated to emit light. The structure may include index matching layers or a cavity layer to enhance emissions. The layer thicknesses of the structure may be spatially varied to modify the emission spectrum versus emission angle. The self-focusing structure may be fabricated into a convex electrically heated wire filament light bulb, a concave visible thermophotovoltaic emitter, a concentric directional heat exchanger, an electronic display, or a variety of irregularly shaped remotely read temperature or strain sensors.
US08134280B2 Ultrasonic probe
An electronic radial ultrasonic probe comprising an electronic radial array which comprises a plurality of ultrasonic transducers being continuously arrayed circularly around an insertion axis as center and also for which a transmission/reception of an ultrasonic wave is controlled by electronically selecting the plurality of ultrasonic transducer, comprises: a support member equipped on the electronic radial array; a lock member featured with a cavity in which the support member is inserted and with a lock groove for locking a balloon which is mounted in a manner to cover the electronic radial array and in which an ultrasonic medium is filled; and a filler member which is constituted by an adhesive material converting from a fluid state to a solid state, and is filled in the cavity.
US08134276B2 Methods and systems for positioning micro elements
A micro device may comprise a substrate, a first micro structure coupled to the substrate, a second micro structure coupled to the substrate, and port configured to receive an input. The first micro structure is configured to move into engagement with the second micro structure in response to the input.
US08134270B2 Synchronous motor
Provided is a synchronous motor comprising a rotor that includes magnetic poles arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction, and a stator that includes stator teeth arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction. Stator teeth other than a reference tooth are displaced from positions corresponding to integral multiples of the phase difference of two-phase alternating currents with respect the stator tooth in electrical angle. Both a first-type coil supplied with a first phase and a second-type coil supplied with a second phase are wound by concentrated winding on the stator teeth arranged at the displaced positions.
US08134269B2 Electric motor
An alternator comprising a rotor having plural magnetic poles in the circumferential direction; and a stator whose teeth are disposed opposite to the periphery of the rotor, with an air gap interposed between the rotor and the stator, wherein the coil conductors are wound on the stator so that two stator magnetic poles may be formed by two coil units of a phase wound around stator teeth within the range of 360 electrical degrees subtended by the magnetic poles of the rotor; each of the two coil units forming the stator magnetic poles spans an electrical angle less than 180 electrical degrees; the two coil turns forming the two stator magnetic poles are laid out so that they may not overlap each other; and the coil conductors are so wound that the adjacent stator magnetic poles exhibit opposite magnetic polarities.
US08134266B2 Electric motor
It comprises stator including stator core having yoke and a plurality of teeth protruded from yoke, which is formed with slots between adjacent teeth, and rotor having rotor core and permanent magnet formed with a plurality of magnetic poles, which confronts tip ends of teeth via gaps, wherein rotor core is formed by rotor core materials circumferentially equally divided into the predetermined number of divisions, and the least common multiple being N for the number of slots and the number of magnetic poles and the least common multiple being M for the number of slots and the number of divisions, then N is equal to M.
US08134265B2 Magnetic generator
A magnetic generator, or a so-called inner-rotor generator, provided with a rotor on the inside of a stator. The rotor has a ring-shaped yoke and a magnet integrally mounted in advance to the outer circumferential surface of the yoke. The rotor is mounted to a hub spindle of a rotating body.
US08134262B2 Kit servomotor
A kit servomotor consists of an electromotor and a rotary encoder. The electromotor has a motor stator (3, 8) and a rotor (1), which is positioned in unsupported fashion in the motor stator. The motor stator (3, 8) and the rotor (1) can be installed on the output end. The rotor (1) is designed as a hollow shaft, at least on its end opposite the end used for installation. The rotary encoder is attached to the electromotor on the end opposite the installation end and has a stator unit (4) and an encoder shaft (5). The stator unit (4) is connected to the motor stator (3, 8). The encoder shaft 5 is connected to the rotor (1) using a coupling that is isogonal with respect to the angle of rotation, but elastic in the radial and axial directions. At its motor end, which is coaxial to the hollow shaft of the rotor (1), the encoder shaft (5) has an outer diameter that is smaller than the inner diameter of the hollow shaft. The coupling is axially flat in design and bridges the annular gap between the outer diameter of the encoder shaft (5) and the inner diameter of the hollow shaft of the rotor (1).
US08134260B2 Electric motor with heat pipes
A motor including a frame that defines a motor portion and an adjacent cooling portion, and a plurality of heat pipes disposed within and fully enclosed by the motor frame. Each heat pipe has an evaporator end disposed within the portion of the frame that defines the motor portion and a condenser end disposed within the portion of the frame that defines the cooling portion. A cooling chamber within the motor cooling portion is structured to have a fluid introduced therein by a working device such that at least a portion of the frame defining the cooling portion is cooled via the working fluid, thereby extracting heat from the heat pipe condenser ends and cooling the motor portion of the motor.
US08134258B2 Electrical direct linear drive device with a stator having two guide rails for the linear guidance of a driven carriage
An electrical direct linear drive device, with a stator (10) having two guide rails (12, 13) for the linear guidance of a driven carriage (11) is proposed, wherein a permanent magnet arrangement (18) providing the electrical drive, and a drive coil arrangement (19), which is movable relatively thereto, are provided. The guide rails (12, 13) are arranged on sides (14, 15) of the stator (10) which are differently oriented, wherein the carriage (11) extends at least partially over each one of these sides (14, 15). Guide elements having guide channels for the guide rails (12, 13) are arranged on the carriage (11).
US08134257B2 Lithographic apparatus having a lorentz actuator with a composite carrier
An actuator is configured to produce a displacement force between a first and a second part to displace the first and second parts relative to each other. The Actuator includes a first magnet subassembly, attached to one of a first and a second part, and an electrically conductive element, attached to the other one of the first and second part and placed near the first magnet subassembly. The first magnet subassembly includes at least one set of at least two adjacently placed magnets oriented such that their magnetic polarizations are substantially mutually opposite, and a back mass made out of a magnetic flux guiding material and connecting the magnets to guide a magnetic flux there between. The first magnet subassembly includes a carrier made of a non-magnetic-flux-guiding material, the carrier including at least one recess in which the at least one set of back mass and magnets is embedded.
US08134256B2 Power receiving control device, power receiving device, and electronic apparatus
A power receiving control device provided to a power receiving device in a contactless power transmission system that transmits power from a power transmission device by electromagnetically coupling primary and secondary coils to feed electric power to a load. The power receiving control device includes a power receiving side control circuit. The power receiving side control circuit turns on a switch circuit provided between input and output nodes of a regulator in the power receiving device based on detecting lowering power feeding capability. The power receiving side control circuit turns off the switch circuit when power feeding is temporarily stopped in a period when the regulator is bypassed when voltage of a power supply control signal output terminal switches levels or before the power feeding is temporarily stopped. The power receiving side control circuit turns on the switch circuit after releasing the temporary stop of power feeding.
US08134244B2 Hybrid start/run apparatus
Hybrid start/run apparatus for engines includes a transport assembly and a hybrid start/run assembly. The transport assembly includes a multi-wheeled truck with at least a front wheel and two rear wheels, a drive motor attached to the rear wheels, transport control apparatus connected to the drive motor and including forward, reverse, and speed controls, and steering apparatus coupled to the at least one front wheel. The hybrid start/run assembly includes an engine, a mating generator couple to be driven by the engine and a plurality of batteries mounted on the transport assembly, and cables adapted to be coupled to a remotely located engine. The control apparatus couples the generator and the plurality of batteries to the cables in at least a start/run position.
US08134240B2 Semiconductor device and manufacturing method for the same
To provide a small, high-performance semiconductor device in which contact between adjacent wires is prevented for increased flexibility in designing a wiring layout, and an efficient method for manufacturing the semiconductor device. The semiconductor device includes a substrate 10 having an electrode 21A arranged on its surface; and a first semiconductor element 11A which includes an electrode 22 arranged on its surface and which is supported by the substrate 10, wherein a first wire 41 is connected through a first bump 31 to at least one of the electrodes over the substrate 10 and semiconductor element 11A (i.e., at least one of the electrodes 21 and 22), and a second wire 42 is connected through a second bump 32 to a bonding portion of the wire 41.
US08134239B2 Address line wiring structure and printed wiring board having same
An address signal line having a stub structure connects between at least three memory elements and a data transferring element and transmits address signals for the memory elements. An address terminal of the data transferring element has an impedance lower than a characteristic impedance of the address signal line. A wiring length TL0 from the data transferring element to a first branch point S1 where a branch line is branched at a shortest distance from the data transferring element is configured to become equal to or greater than a wiring length TL1 from the first branch point S1 to a second branch point S2 where a second branch line is branched. A wiring length TL3 from the second branch point S2 to a third branch point S3 where a third branch line is branched is configured to become greater than the wiring lengths TL0 and TL1.
US08134238B2 Semiconductor device having a wafer level chip size package structure
A semiconductor device having a wafer level chip size package may include a semiconductor substrate having an integrated circuit formed thereon; a plurality of electrode pads formed on the semiconductor substrate; at least one rewiring layer which may include rewiring formed adjacent to the plurality of electrode pads; and a plurality of external electrodes formed on the rewiring layer. The plurality of electrodes and plurality of external electrodes may be sectioned and arranged in four areas having the same shapes. Each area may include a first group of N number of external electrodes arranged along an edge of the semiconductor substrate, a second group of (N-2) number of external electrodes arranged inside the first group of external electrodes, and a plurality of (2N-2) number of electrode pads arranged between the first and second groups of external electrodes.
US08134236B2 Electronic module with switching functions and method for producing the same
An electronic module with switching functions includes integrated circuit chips arranged in a chip stack. The integrated circuit chips of the chip stack in each case includes a large-area contact on the top side and/or the rear side, the areal extent of the large-area contact completely occupies the top side and/or the rear side of the integrated circuit chip. A diffusion solder layer is arranged between mutually aligned large-area contacts of the stacked integrated circuit chips, the diffusion solder layer extending as far as the edges of the integrated circuit chips. A method for producing an electronic module with switching functions includes aligning and diffusion-soldering integrated circuit wafers with one another by their rear sides.
US08134235B2 Three-dimensional semiconductor device
A three-dimensional semiconductor device using redundant bonding-conductor structures to make inter-level electrical connections between multiple semiconductor chips. A first chip, or other semiconductor substrate, forms a first active area on its upper surface, and a second chip or other semiconductor substrate forms a second active area on its upper surface. According to the present invention, when the second chip has been mounted above the first chip, either face-up or face-down, the first active area is coupled to the second active area by at least one redundant bonding-conductor structure. In one embodiment, each redundant bonding-conductor structure includes at least one via portion that extends completely through the second chip to perform this function. In another, the redundant bonding-conductor structure extends downward to the top level interconnect. The present invention also includes a method for making such a device.
US08134233B2 Method and apparatus for providing electrically isolated closely spaced features on a printed circuit board
A method and apparatus for forming controlled stress fractures in metal produces electrically isolated, closely spaced circuit sub-entities for use on a metallized printed wiring board. A polymeric substrate has a layer of metal adhered to the surface, and the metal layer is formed into entities. Each entity has a fracture initiating feature formed into it, which serves to initiate and/or direct a stress crack that is induced in the metal. The entities are fractured in a controlled manner by subjecting the substrate and the entities to mechanical stress by a rapid thermal excursion, creating a stress fracture in the entity extending from the fracture initiating feature. The stress fracture divides each entity into two or more sub-entities that are electrically isolated from each other by the stress fracture. The resulting structure can be used to form circuitry requiring very fine spaces for high density printed circuit boards. The rapid thermal stress may be induced by a high intensity, strobed xenon arc lamp.
US08134229B2 Layered chip package
A layered chip package includes a main body including a plurality of layer portions, and wiring disposed on a side surface of the main body. Each layer portion includes a semiconductor chip, an insulating portion covering at least one side surface of the semiconductor chip, and a plurality of electrodes connected to the semiconductor chip. The insulating portion has an end face located at the side surface of the main body on which the wiring is disposed. Each electrode has an end face surrounded by the insulating portion and located at the side surface of the main body on which the wiring is disposed.
US08134228B2 Semiconductor device for battery power voltage control
A voltage generated in any of a plurality of semiconductor chips is supplied to another chip as a power supply voltage to realize a stable operation of a semiconductor device in which the semiconductor chips are stacked in the same package. For example, two chips are stacked with each other, first to third pads are disposed along corresponding sides of the respective chips, which are arranged close and in parallel to each other, and these pads are commonly connected to each other with first to third metal wires respectively. In another example, fourth and fifth pad are disposed along a side different form a side along which the first to third pads are disposed, and further connected to each other with a fourth metal wire directly between the chips.
US08134227B2 Stacked integrated circuit package system with conductive spacer
A stacked integrated circuit package system is provided including providing a first device and a second device with the first device, the second device, or a combination thereof having an integrated circuit die; forming a conductive spacer structure over the first device with the conductive spacer structure having a spacer filler around a conductive element; mounting the second device over the conductive spacer structure and the first device; and encapsulating the first device, the second device, and the conductive spacer structure.
US08134222B2 MOS capacitor structures
Methods and apparatus are described for MOS capacitors (MOS CAPs). The apparatus comprises a substrate having Ohmically coupled N and P semiconductor regions covered by a dielectric. A conductive electrode overlies the dielectric above these N and P regions. Use of the Ohmically coupled N and P regions substantially reduces the variation of capacitance with applied voltage associated with ordinary MOS CAPs. When these N and P regions have unequal doping, the capacitance variation may still be substantially compensated by adjusting the properties of the dielectric above the N and P regions and/or relative areas of the N and P regions or both. Accordingly, such MOS CAPS may be more easily integrated with other semiconductor devices with minimal or no disturbance to the established integrated circuit (IC) manufacturing process and without significantly increasing the occupied area beyond that required for a conventional MOS CAP.
US08134218B2 Solid-state image capturing device, solid-state image capturing apparatus, and electronic information device
A solid-state image capturing device is provided, and in a pixel section in the center of a chip where a plurality of light receiving elements are arranged in two dimensions, an on-chip lens for focusing incident light is provided on each of the plurality of light receiving elements in a corresponding manner; and a dummy pattern made of a material for the on-chip lens is provided on a peripheral circuit section on an outer circumference side of the chip in order to improve the heat-resisting property at the time of reflow soldering.
US08134217B2 Bypass diode for a solar cell
Bypass diodes for solar cells are described. In one embodiment, a bypass diode for a solar cell includes a substrate of the solar cell. A first conductive region is disposed above the substrate, the first conductive region of a first conductivity type. A second conductive region is disposed on the first conductive region, the second conductive region of a second conductivity type opposite the first conductivity type.
US08134211B2 Triggered silicon controlled rectifier for RF ESD protection
An ESD protection circuit has a polysilicon bounded SCR connected between a signal input/output interface contact of the integrated circuit and a power supply connection of the integrated circuit and a biasing circuit. The biasing circuit is connected to the polysilicon bounded SCR to bias the polysilicon bounded SCR to turn on more rapidly during the ESD event. The biasing circuit is formed by at least one polysilicon bounded diode and a first resistance. Other embodiments of the biasing circuit include a resistor/capacitor biasing circuit and a second diode triggering biasing circuit.
US08134209B2 Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing the same
Multi-gate metal oxide silicon transistors and methods of making multi-gate metal oxide silicon transistors are provided. The multi-gate metal oxide silicon transistor contains a bulk silicon substrate containing one or more convex portions between shallow trench regions; one or more dielectric portions over the convex portions; one or more silicon fins over the dielectric portions; a shallow trench isolation layer in the shallow trench isolation regions; and a gate electrode. The upper surface of the shallow trench isolation layer can be located below the upper surface of the convex portion, or the upper surface of the shallow trench isolation layer can be located between the lower surface and the upper surface of first dielectric layer. The multi-gate metal oxide silicon transistor can contain second spacers adjacent to side surfaces of the convex portions in a source/drain region.
US08134207B2 High breakdown voltage semiconductor circuit device
In a high breakdown voltage semiconductor element among elements integrated together on an SOI substrate in which its rated voltage is shared between an embedded oxide layer and a drain region formed by an element active layer, both high integration and high breakdown voltage are realized while also securing suitability for practical implementation and practical use. The high breakdown voltage is realized without hampering size reduction of the element by forming an electrically floating layer of a conductivity type opposite to that of the drain region at the surface of the drain region. Further, the thickness of the embedded oxide layer is reduced to a level suitable for the practical implementation and practical use by setting the thickness of the element active layer of the SOI substrate at 30 μm or more.
US08134205B2 Layout structure of power MOS transistor
The present invention discloses a layout structure of a transistor unit of a power MOS transistor, wherein the layout structure comprises a drain area, a plurality of body areas, a plurality of source areas and a gate area. The plurality of body areas surround the drain area. The plurality of source areas extend from the perimeters of the plurality of body areas in an anisotropic manner. The gate area is disposed between the drain area and the plurality of source areas. The contacts of the drain area, the plurality of body areas and the plurality of source areas are all disposed on the same side of the layout structure.
US08134200B2 Nonvolatile semiconductor memory including a gate insulating film and an inter-gate insulating film
A nonvolatile semiconductor memory of an aspect of the present invention includes a memory cell including, a charge storage layer on a gate insulating film, a multilayer insulator on the charge storage layer, and a control gate electrode on the multilayer insulator, the gate insulating film including a first tunnel film, a first high-dielectric-constant film on the first tunnel film and offering a greater dielectric constant than the first tunnel film, and a second tunnel film on the first high-dielectric-constant film and having the same configuration as that of the first tunnel film, the multilayer insulator including a first insulating film, a second high-dielectric-constant film on the first insulating film and offering a greater dielectric constant than the first insulating film, and a second insulating film on the second high-dielectric-constant film and having the same configuration as that of the first insulating film.
US08134199B2 Nonvolatile semiconductor memory
A nonvolatile semiconductor memory fabrication method including forming a first insulating film and a floating gate electrode material on a semiconductor substrate; forming a gate insulating film and a floating gate electrode by etching the first insulating film and the floating gate electrode material, respectively, and forming a groove for an element isolation region by etching the semiconductor substrate; and forming an element region and the element isolation region by burying a second insulating film in the groove and planarizing the second insulating film.
US08134198B2 Nonvolatile semiconductor memory
A nonvolatile semiconductor memory includes active regions . . . AAj−1, AAj, AAj−1, . . . formed in a semiconductor substrate; a plurality of word lines WL0, WL1, . . . in the row direction; memory cell transistors, each including a floating gate provided on the semiconductor substrate via a tunneling insulating film, an inter-gate insulating film disposed on the floating gate, and a control gate disposed on the inter-gate insulating film, disposed on intersections of word lines and active regions; select gate lines SGD in the row direction; bit line contacts CB disposed on the active regions; and a plurality of bit lines in the column direction and connected to the active regions via the bit line contacts; and the bit line contacts are formed by forming an electrode material for the bit line contacts in lines in the row direction and cutting the electrode material for each of the bit lines to avoid contact-failure of bit line contacts CB.
US08134196B2 Integrated circuit system with metal-insulator-metal circuit element
An integrated circuit system is provided including forming a substrate, forming a first contact having multiple conductive layers over the substrate and a layer of the multiple conductive layers on other layers of the multiple conductive layers, forming a dielectric layer on the first contact, and forming a second contact on the dielectric layer and over the first contact.
US08134194B2 Memory cells, memory cell constructions, and memory cell programming methods
Some embodiments include memory cells including a memory component having a first conductive material, a second conductive material, and an oxide material between the first conductive material and the second conductive material. A resistance of the memory component is configurable via a current conducted from the first conductive material through the oxide material to the second conductive material. Other embodiments include a diode including metal and a dielectric material and a memory component connected in series with the diode. The memory component includes a magnetoresistive material and has a resistance that is changeable via a current conducted through the diode and the magnetoresistive material.
US08134193B2 Magneto-resistance effect element and magnetic memory
It is possible to reduce a current required for spin injection writing. A magneto-resistance effect element includes: a first magnetization pinned layer; a magnetization free layer; a tunnel barrier layer; a second magnetization pinned layer whose direction of magnetization is pinned to be substantially anti-parallel to the direction of magnetization of the first magnetization pinned layer, and; a non-magnetic layer. When the second magnetization pinned layer is made of ferromagnetic material including Co, material for the non-magnetic layer is metal including at least one element selected from the group consisting of Zr, Hf, Rh, Ag, and Au; when the second magnetization pinned layer is made of ferromagnetic material including Fe, material for the non-magnetic layer is metal including at least one element selected from the group consisting of Rh, Pt, Ir, Al, Ag, and Au; and when the second magnetization pinned layer is made of ferromagnetic material including Ni, material for the non-magnetic layer is metal including at least one element selected from the group consisting of Zr, Hf, Au, and Ag.
US08134184B2 Integrated circuit having gate electrode level region including at least four linear-shaped conductive structures with some outer-contacted linear-shaped conductive structures having larger outer extending portion than inner extending portion
A layout of a cell of a semiconductor device is disclosed to include a diffusion level layout including a plurality of diffusion region layout shapes, including a p-type and an n-type diffusion region separated by a central inactive region. The layout of the cell includes a gate electrode level layout corresponding to an entire gate level of the cell. The gate electrode layout includes a number of linear-shaped layout features placed to extend in only a first parallel direction. Each of the number of the linear-shaped layout features within the gate electrode level layout of the restricted layout region is rectangular-shaped. Linear-shaped layout features within the gate electrode level layout extend over one or more of the p-type and/or n-type diffusion regions to form PMOS and NMOS transistor devices. A number of the PMOS transistor devices is equal to a number of the NMOS transistor devices in the cell.
US08134179B2 Photodiode with a reduced dark current and method for the production thereof
A photodiode in which a pn junction is formed between the doped region (DG) formed in the surface of a crystalline semiconductor substrate and a semiconductor layer (HS) deposited above said doped region. An additional doping (GD) is provided in the edge region of the doped zone, by means of which additional doping the pn junction is shifted deeper into the substrate (SU). With the greater distance of the pn junction from defects at phase boundaries that is achieved in this way, the dark current within the photodiode is reduced.
US08134178B2 Light-emitting element
According to an aspect of the invention, a light-emitting element includes a shift thyristor, a light emitting thyristor, and a vertical type gate load resistor. The shift thyristor includes a first anode layer, a first gate layer, and a first cathode layer. The light-emitting thyristor includes a second anode layer, a second gate layer, and a second cathode layer. The vertical type gate load resistor is arranged on the first gate layer under a power line and limits a current flowing from the first gate layer and the second gate layer to the power line.
US08134176B2 Light-emitting diode and light-emitting diode lamp
The present invention provides a light-emitting diode (10) including a substrate (101) made of a first conductive type silicon (Si) single crystal, a pn junction structured light-emitting section (40) composed of a III-group nitride semiconductor on the substrate, a first polarity ohmic electrode (107a) for the first conductive type semiconductor provided on the light-emitting section (40) and a second polarity ohmic electrode (108) for a second conductive type semiconductor on the same side as the light-emitting section (40) with respect to the substrate (101), wherein a second pn junction structure (30) is provided which is made up of a pn junction between the first conductive type semiconductor layer (102) and the second conductive type semiconductor layer (103) which is different from the pn junction structure of the light-emitting section (10).
US08134172B2 LED and fabrication method thereof
A light emitting diode is provided. The diode includes: a substrate; a first nitride gallium layer disposed above the substrate; a first electrode provided at one portion of and above the first nitride gallium layer; an active layer provided above the first nitride gallium layer, for emitting light; a second nitride gallium layer provided above the active layer; and transparent electrodes spaced apart from one another above the second nitride gallium layer.
US08134171B2 Method of manufacturing semiconductor device and semiconductor device
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device includes steps of forming a semiconductor device layer on an upper surface of a substrate including the upper surface, a lower surface and a dislocation concentrated region arranged so as to part a first side closer to the upper surface and a second side closer to the lower surface, exposing a portion where the dislocation concentrated region does not exist above on the lower surface by removing the substrate on the second side along with at least a part of the dislocation concentrated region, and forming an electrode on the portion.
US08134168B2 Group-III nitride semiconductor device
An object of the present invention is to provide a Group III nitride semiconductor element which comprises a thick AlGaN layer exhibiting high crystallinity and containing no cracks, and which does not include a thick GaN layer (which generally serves as a light-absorbing layer in an ultraviolet LED).The inventive Group III nitride semiconductor element comprises a substrate; a first nitride semiconductor layer composed of AlN which is provided on the substrate; a second nitride semiconductor layer composed of Alx1Ga1-x1N (0≦x1≦0.1) which is provided on the first nitride semiconductor layer; and a third nitride semiconductor layer composed of Alx2Ga1-x2N (0
US08134163B2 Light-emitting diodes on concave texture substrate
A semiconductor device having light-emitting diodes (LEDs) formed on a concave textured substrate is provided. A substrate is patterned and etched to form recesses. A separation layer is formed along the bottom of the recesses. An LED structure is formed along the sidewalls and, optionally, along the surface of the substrate between adjacent recesses. In these embodiments, the surface area of the LED structure is increased as compared to a planar surface. In another embodiment, the LED structure is formed within the recesses such that the bottom contact layer is non-conformal to the topology of the recesses. In these embodiments, the recesses in a silicon substrate result in a cubic structure in the bottom contact layer, such as an n-GaN layer, which has a non-polar characteristic and exhibits higher external quantum efficiency.
US08134160B2 Chip-type LED having an insulating substrate in which a first concave hole and a second concave hole are formed
An embodiment of the present invention has an insulating substrate in which a first concave hole for mounting an LED chip and a second concave hole for connecting a metallic small-gauge wire are formed, where a metallic sheet that serves as a first wiring pattern is formed at a portion that includes the first concave hole, a metallic sheet that serves as a second wiring pattern is formed at a portion that includes the second concave hole, an LED chip is mounted upon the metallic sheet inside the first concave hole, the LED chip is electrically connected to the metallic sheet inside the second concave hole via a metallic small-gauge wire, and the chip-type LED is sealed with a clear resin.
US08134158B2 TFT-LCD pixel unit and method for manufacturing the same
A thin film transistor liquid crystal display (TFT-LCD) pixel unit and a method for manufacturing the same. The pixel unit comprises a gate line and a gate electrode formed on a substrate and a first gate insulating layer, an active layer, and a doped layer sequentially that are formed on the gate line and the gate electrode. An intercepting trench is formed on the gate line to cut off the doped layer and the active layer on the gate line. A second insulating layer covers the intercepting trench and the substrate where the gate line and the gate electrode are not formed. A pixel electrode is formed on the second insulating layer and is integrated with the second source/drain electrode.
US08134157B2 Semiconductor device and method of manufacturing same
A semiconductor device with high reliability and operation performance is manufactured without increasing the number of manufacture steps. A gate electrode has a laminate structure. A TFT having a low concentration impurity region that overlaps the gate electrode or a TFT having a low concentration impurity region that does not overlap the gate electrode is chosen for a circuit in accordance with the function of the circuit.
US08134155B2 Liquid crystal display device capable of reducing leakage current, and fabrication method thereof
The present invention discloses a liquid crystal display device which can improve quality of image by reducing a leakage current by a backlight, and a fabrication method thereof. The liquid crystal display device includes: a substrate; a plurality of gate lines aligned on the substrate in a direction; gate electrodes connected to the gate lines; a plurality of data lines for defining a plurality of pixels by vertically crossing the gate lines; source electrodes and drain electrodes formed on the gate electrodes and separated from the data lines with a predetermined gap; pixel electrodes formed in the pixel regions and electrically connected to the drain electrodes; connecting patterns for electrically connecting the data lines to the source electrodes; and semiconductor layers disposed between the gate electrodes and the source/drain electrodes.
US08134152B2 CMOS thin film transistor, method of fabricating the same and organic light emitting display device having laminated PMOS poly-silicon thin film transistor with a top gate configuration and a NMOS oxide thin film transistor with an inverted staggered bottom gate configuration
A CMOS thin film transistor arrangement including a PMOS poly-silicon thin film transistor having a top gate configuration and a NMOS oxide thin film transistor having an inverted staggered bottom gate configuration where both transistors share the same gate electrode. The shared gate electrode is used as a doping or implantation mask in the formation of the source and drain regions of the poly-silicon transistor.
US08134147B2 Organic compound, anthracene derivative, and light-emitting element, light-emitting device, and electronic device using anthracene derivative
Objects of the present invention are to provide novel anthracene derivatives and novel organic compounds; a light-emitting element that has high emission efficiency; a light-emitting element that is capable of emitting blue light with high luminous efficiency; a light-emitting element that is capable of operation for a long time; and a light-emitting device and an electronic device that have lower power consumption. An anthracene derivative represented by a general formula (1) and an organic compound represented by a general formula (17) are provided. A light-emitting element that has high emission efficiency can be obtained by use of the anthracene derivative represented by the general formula (1). Further, a light-emitting element that has a long life can be obtained by use of the anthracene derivative represented by the general formula (1).
US08134146B2 Heterocyclic radical or diradical, the dimers, oligomers, polymers, dispiro compounds and polycycles thereof, the use thereof, organic semiconductive material and electronic or optoelectronic component
The present invention relates to heterocyclic radicals or diradicals, the dimers, oligomers, polymers, dispiro compounds and polycycles thereof, to the use thereof to organic semiconductive materials and to electronic and optoelectronic components.
US08134145B2 Organic electronic device
Disclosed is an organic electronic device, in which a semiconductor layer and source/drain electrodes may be formed from materials of the same type, suitable for a room-temperature wet process, and thus have surface properties similar to each other, thereby decreasing contact resistance between the semiconductor layer and the source/drain electrodes. The materials for formation of the semiconductor layer and source/drain electrodes may be organic semiconductor type materials obtained by adding carbon-based nanoparticles to organic semiconductor materials in predetermined or given amounts. As such, the conductivity of a semiconductor or conductor may vary depending on the amount of carbon-based nanoparticles.
US08134144B2 Thin-film transistor
There is provided herein a performance-enhancing composition comprising inorganic nanoparticles dispersed in a polymer selected from the group consisting of polysiloxane, polysilsesquioxane, and mixtures thereof. This composition, when applied to a thin-film transistor, such as a bottom-gate thin-film transistor, as an overcoat or top layer, improves the carrier mobility and current on/off ratio of the thin film transistor. Also provided is the thin-film transistor produced utilizing this process and/or composition.
US08134143B2 2,7-carbazolenevinylene derivatives as novel materials in producing organic based electronic devices
Organic Field Effect Transistor (OFET), an Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED), an and an Organic Photovoltaic Cell (OPC) including as active material a conjugated oligomeric or polymeric 2,7-carbazolenevinylene derivative described by the formula (I) or (II): Such OFETs, OLEDs and OPCs have improved devices properties and efficiencies.
US08134141B2 Detector with tunable spectral response
A semiconductor detector has a tunable spectral response. These detectors may be used with processing techniques that permit the creation of “synthetic” sensors that have spectral responses that are beyond the spectral responses attainable by the underlying detectors. For example, the processing techniques may permit continuous and independent tuning of both the center wavelength and the spectral resolution of the synthesized spectral response. Other processing techniques can also generate responses that are matched to specific target signatures.
US08134138B2 Programmable metallization memory cell with planarized silver electrode
Programmable metallization memory cells having a planarized silver electrode and methods of forming the same are disclosed. The programmable metallization memory cells include a first metal contact and a second metal contact, an ion conductor solid electrolyte material is between the first metal contact and the second metal contact, and either a silver alloy doping electrode separates the ion conductor solid electrolyte material from the first metal contact or the second metal contact, or a silver doping electrode separates the ion conductor solid electrolyte material from the first metal contact. The silver electrode includes a silver layer and a metal seed layer separating the silver layer from the first metal contact.
US08134136B2 Ex-situ removal of deposition on an optical element
A collector assembly with a radiation collector, a cover plate and a support member connecting the radiation collector to the cover plate are provided. The cover plate is designed to cover an opening in a collector chamber. The collector chamber opening may be large enough to pass the radiation collector and the support member. The removed radiation collector can be cleaned with different cleaning procedures, which may be performed in a cleaning device. Such cleaning device may for example consist of the following: a circumferential hull designed to provide an enclosure volume for circumferentially enclosing at least the radiation collector; an inlet configured to provide at least one of a cleaning gas and a cleaning liquid to the enclosure volume to clean at least said radiation collector; and an outlet configured to remove said at least one of said cleaning gas and said cleaning liquid from the enclosure volume.
US08134132B2 Exposure device having an array of light emitting diodes
A device and method for exposing light sensitive substrates to a concentrated light source. The device is suitable for curing substances such as photosensitive sensitive inks, adhesives, and photographic elements. Ultraviolet or visible light is emitted from an array of LED's, and then directed by an array of light guides to a light concentrator having a light input region along its length. The light is then concentrated and emitted from a light output region along the length of the light concentrator to a photosensitive target to be exposed.
US08134131B2 Method and apparatus for observing inside structures, and specimen holder
An object of the invention is to provide a method and apparatus for observing inside structures and a specimen holder, wherein aging degradation of a good sample to a bad sample can be tracked in the same field of view, using the same specimen in order to determine the mechanism of failure. The present invention is a method for observing inside structures. The method comprises irradiating a specimen with a corpuscular beam generated from a corpuscular beam source, detecting transmitted particles transmitted by the specimen, applying a voltage to a portion of the specimen, and observing of a detection status of the transmitted particles in the voltage-applied portion as needed.
US08134129B2 Microchannel plate, gas proportional counter and imaging device
An object of the present invention is to provide a microchannel plate having excellent characteristics which enable to attain both high luminance and high resolution at the same time, a gas proportional counter using such a microchannel plate and an imaging device. The microchannel plate according to the present invention comprises a base body provided with a plurality of through holes (13) and having an insulating property, and is arranged in a gas atmosphere mainly containing an inert gas to constitute a proportional counter. The base body has photoelectric converter portions (1a, 1b) formed on at least inner walls of the plurality of through holes (13).
US08134128B2 Method and system for plasma-induced terahertz spectroscopy
A method of analyzing a remotely-located object includes the step of illuminating at least a portion of a targeted object with electromagnetic radiation to induce a phase transformation in the targeted object, wherein the phase transformation produces an emitter plasma, which emits terahertz radiation. The method also includes the step of ionizing a volume of an ambient gas to produce a sensor plasma by focusing an optical probe beam in the volume and the step of detecting an optical component of resultant radiation produced from an interaction of the focused optical probe beam and the terahertz radiation in the sensor plasma. Detecting an optical component of the resultant radiation emitted by the sensor plasma facilitates detection of a characteristic fingerprint of the targeted object imposed onto the terahertz radiation produced as a result of the induced phase transformation.
US08134125B2 Method and apparatus of an inspection system using an electron beam
Problems encountered in the conventional inspection method and the conventional apparatus adopting the method are solved by the present invention using an electron beam by providing a novel inspection method and an inspection apparatus adopting the novel method which are capable of increasing the speed to scan a specimen such as a semiconductor wafer.The inspection novel method provided by the present invention comprises the steps of: generating an electron beam; converging the generated electron beam on a specimen by using an objective lens; scanning the specimen by using the converged electron beam; continuously moving the specimen during scanning; detecting charged particles emanating from the specimen at a location between the specimen and the objective lens and converting the detected charged particles into an electrical signal; storing picture information conveyed by the electrical signal; comparing a picture with another by using the stored picture information; and detecting a defect of the specimen.
US08134121B2 Chromatographic mass spectrometer
A chromatographic mass spectrometer 100, 150 is provided with a measuring portion 21 for measuring n-alkane of a number of different carbon numbers, and characterized by further having: a mass number storing portion 31 for storing the mass number for each n-alkane; and a mass chromatogram preparing portion 22 for preparing a mass chromatogram for each mass number by focusing on the mass number on the basis of the mass spectrum.
US08134118B2 Image capture unit and methods of fabricating a lens array block utilizing electrolysis
Methods of forming a lens array block comprising a plurality of lens barrels are provided, including depositing lens barrel material by electrolysis and etching lens barrels from a block of material. Also provided are means of assembling image capturing units or arrays of image capturing units.
US08134112B2 Method of fabricating an insulated glazing unit having controllable radiation transmittance
An insulated glazing unit has controllable radiation transmittance. Peripheries of first and second glazing panes are attached and spaced apart facing each other and then attached to a supporting structure. A conductive layer is atop the first glazing pane inner surface as a fixed position electrode. A dielectric is atop the conductive layer. A coiled spiral roll, variable position electrode is between the first and second glazing panes, a width of its outer edge attached to the dielectric. A first electrical lead is connected to the variable position electrode's conductive layer. A second electrical lead is connected to the conductive layer atop the first glazing pane. Applied voltage between the first and second electrical leads creates a predetermined potential difference between the electrodes, and the variable position electrode unwinds and rolls out to at least partially cover the first glazing pane, at least reducing the intensity of passing radiation.
US08134109B2 Optical projection engine device having a polarizing beam splitter and a control providing modulation instructions to modulation imagers
An optical projection engine device uses a symmetrical wire grid polarizing beam splitter (PBS) that splits incident illumination to a symmetrical pair of polarized light beams in two orthogonal polarization states, one by reflection and the other by transmission, for illuminating a pair of reflective modulation imagers respectively. In identical geometric configuration, the two synchronized reflective modulation imagers polarization modulate polarized light beams as received, and reflect them back towards the PBS, which through transmission and reflection respectively, combines and projects two modulated light beams through a projection lens system to form a pair of spatially overlapped illumination images of aligned pixels with the same image in two orthogonal polarization states on a projection screen. The device jointly provides improvement optical efficiency and expanded function to three dimensional stereoscopic displays.
US08134108B2 Image intensifying device
An image intensifying device includes a lens that is positioned at a light input that forms an image of a scene. The image intensifying device also includes an image intensifier tube that includes a photocathode that is positioned to receive the image formed by the lens. The photocathode generates photoelectrons in response to the light image of the scene. The image intensifier tube also includes a microchannel plate having an input surface comprising the photocathode. The microchannel plate receives the photoelectrons generated by the photocathode and generating secondary electrons. An electron detector receives the secondary electrons generated by the microchannel plate and generates an intensified image of the scene.
US08134104B2 Reflective surface for solar energy collector
Concentrating solar collector systems that utilize a concentrating reflector to direct incident solar radiation to a solar receiver are described. In one aspect, the reflective surface is arranged to direct light to the receiver in a non-imaging manner in which the solar rays reflected from the opposing edges of the reflective surface are generally directed towards a central portion of the solar receiver. Rays reflected from selected central portions of the reflective surface are directed closer to the edges of the receiver than the solar rays reflected from the edges of the reflective surface. The described reflectors are generally intended for use in solar collector systems that track movements of the sun along at least one axis.
US08134103B2 Burnout time estimation and early thrust termination determination for a boosting target
A system senses the presence of a boosting missile or target and processes the information by comparison of the data with a plurality of predetermined templates of nominal missile characteristics, in order to determine the state of the missile. The processing includes estimation of burnout time and of early thrust termination. Both are determined by generating current stage state estimates including position, velocity, time index error into the thrust template, and motor scale factor error. The change in motor scale factor is compared with a threshold to determine if early thrust termination has occurred. The estimated burnout time of the current stage is calculated from the burnout times of the current and the previous stage processed with the estimated motor scale factor and with state estimates from a filter.
US08134098B2 Laser machining apparatus using laser beam introduced into jet liquid column
A laser machining apparatus comprises a nozzle for ejecting a jet liquid to a workpiece and a liquid supply unit for supplying the jet liquid to the nozzle, while a laser beam is introduced into a jet liquid column ejected from the nozzle. The laser machining apparatus further comprises a laminar flow forming channel for supplying the jet liquid to the nozzle in a laminar state. The laminar flow forming channel includes a distribution channel formed by a cavity for annually distributing the jet liquid, which is supplied from the liquid supply unit, around an axis of the nozzle, an interconnecting channel disposed to be communicated with the distribution channel at the downstream side thereof in an axial direction of the nozzle and formed by an annular cavity around the axis of the nozzle to provide a narrower flow passage than the distribution channel, and a liquid reservoir chamber adjacently disposed upstream of the nozzle in the axial direction thereof and storing the jet liquid to be supplied to the nozzle. The liquid reservoir chamber has an outer peripheral edge being communicated with the interconnecting channel over an entire circumference of the annular shape thereof.
US08134097B2 Multi-position head plasma torch
A plasma torch having a multi-position head is disclosed. The plasma torch includes a torch body and a torch head pivotably connected thereto. Such a construction provides a single plasma torch having several head-to-handle orientations thereby providing a highly versatile plasma torch assembly.
US08134096B2 Power supply-control device for electrical discharge machining apparatus
A power-supply control device includes a high-frequency component detecting unit, a machining voltage level detecting device, and a pulse control device. The high-frequency component detecting unit detects a high-frequency component of discharge voltage at a machining gap. The machining voltage level detecting device detects a discharge voltage level at the machining gap. The high-frequency component is compared with a reference high-frequency component to obtain a first comparison result. The discharge voltage level is compared with a reference voltage level to obtain a second comparison result. The pulse control device controls pulse off time based on the first comparison result, and cuts off a discharge pulse based on the second comparison result.
US08134095B2 Switch having a movable contact piece with a J-shaped cross section
A switch has a supporting terminal assembled to a base, a movable contact piece, made of a band-shaped conductive material bent to a substantially J-shaped cross section, having a movable contact at one end and having an intermediate portion rotatably supported by a rotation receiving portion of the supporting terminal, a plunger accommodated so as to be movable up and down in an internal space formed by fitting a housing to the base, and a coil spring including a forced dissociation bent portion at one end and being rotatably supported by the plunger. The plunger is moved up and down to slidably move one end of the coil spring while pressure contacting the other end edge of the movable contact piece to invert the movable contact piece and contact or separate the movable contact to and from a fixed contact, and to lock a distal end of the forced dissociation bent portion to the other end edge of the movable contact piece and exert a shear force on the movable contact of the movable contact piece.
US08134091B2 Electronic manually controllable adjustment device
An electronic manually controllable adjustment device for adjusting electric power provided to an electric load connectable to the device is described. The device comprises first switching elements, a tilting control button which may interact with the first switching elements, and first hinge elements for defining a first hinge axis allowing rotation of the control button around the first axis between a first operating position and a second operating position. The control button can interact with the first switching elements when reaching the first and second operating position. The device further comprises second switching elements and second hinge elements. The second hinge elements can define a second hinge axis perpendicular to the first hinge axis and allow rotation of the control button around the second hinge axis for actuation of the second switching elements.
US08134090B2 Method for weighing with a number of weighing cells
The invention pertains to a method for weighing at least one object (31) that can be or is moved relative to a number of weighing cells (3, 5, 7, 9) and to a device for effecting said method, wherein the weighing cells (3, 5, 7, 9) essentially are adjacently arranged transverse to the movement direction (T) and the weighing signals being generated while weighing at least one object (31) are coupled with one another.
US08134088B2 Threaded cable gland
A threaded cable gland includes a threaded sleeve, a stop ring arranged externally on the threaded sleeve, a retaining nut screwed onto the threaded sleeve, and a sealing element arranged within the threaded sleeve. A dwell pressure element is disposed between the retaining nut and the sealing element within the threaded sleeve, the dwell pressure element configured to act upon the sealing element.
US08134086B2 Electrical isolating structure for conductors in a substrate
A substrate has a first dielectric layer; a first conductive layer on the first dielectric layer; a second dielectric layer on the first conductive layer; an elongated signal conductor embedded within the second dielectric layer; a second conductive layer on the second dielectric layer; a first conductive groove and second conductive groove through the second conductive layer, the second dielectric layer, the first conductive layer and into the first dielectric layer and extending continuously along the length of and on opposing sides of the signal conductor, the grooves having conductive side walls providing an electrical connection between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer; first and second conductive end walls joining the first groove and second groove; and at least one insulating area through at least one of the first and second conductive layers to provide conductor access.
US08134085B2 Printed interconnection board having a core including carbon fiber reinforced plastic
A CFRP core including a CFRP layer has a primary through hole. An adhesive member coats a wall surface of the primary through hole, and has a secondary through hole extending within the primary through hole. An electrically conductive layer is formed on a wall surface of the secondary through hole for electrically connecting upper and lower signal interconnections via the secondary through hole. A coating layer coats an outer peripheral edge of the CFRP core as seen in a plan view. Thereby, a printed interconnection board with low thermal expansivity and high thermal conductivity capable of preventing exfoliation of a CFRP layer on a side surface of a substrate using CFRP as a core, as well as preventing falling-off of carbon powders from the CFRP layer, and a method of manufacturing the same can be obtained.
US08134082B2 Solid printed circuit board and method of manufacturing the same
A solid printed circuit board is manufactured by bonding upper and lower printed circuit boards having different shapes and provided with wirings formed on surfaces thereof. A bonding layer is made of insulating material containing thermosetting resin and inorganic filler dispersed therein, and has a via-conductor made of conductive paste filling a through-hole perforated in a predetermined position of the bonding layer. This circuit board provides a packaging configuration achieving small size and thickness and three-dimensional mounting suitable for semiconductors of high performance and multiple-pin structure.
US08134078B2 Flexible wiring cable
A plurality of first output terminals is provided along one side of a circuit element, and a plurality of input terminals and a plurality of second output terminals are provided adjacently along the other opposite side thereof. Leads include a first output lead extending from the first output terminal to an output connection electrode, and a second output lead extending from the second output terminal to the output connection electrode. The second output lead is extended from the other side of the circuit element to one side of the circuit element through a surface of a flexible wiring cable opposite the circuit element and further extended in parallel with the first output lead and connected to the output connection electrode.
US08134076B2 Grommet
A grommet includes a small tubular section, an enlarging tubular section continued from an end of the smaller tubular section, and an annular recess on an outer surface at a large diameter end of the enlarging tubular section. The small tubular section is inserted into a through-hole from one side of a vehicle body panel so that the annular recess engages the vehicle body panel. Stepped projections extend axially from the small tubular section to the annular recess . Each stepped projection has an angle rib that protrudes from a connecting end of the small tubular section to a position where the angle rib contacts a peripheral edge around the through-hole. Slopes of the angle ribs at upper positions contact a peripheral edge around the through-hole at a position where the slopes at the upper positions do not pass the annular recess.