| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08432670B2 |
Disk drive assembly
A tray assembly for mounting a disk drive includes an enclosure; and a tray mounted to the enclosure. The tray includes a tray body configured to receive the disk drive, a handle pivotably mounted to the tray body, and a securing member pivotably mounted to the tray body. The handle is configured to secure the tray body to the enclosure as the handle rotates. The securing member is configured to engage the handle as the tray body is in a secured state. |
| US08432669B2 |
Signal receiving apparatus and electronic device using the same
A signal receiving apparatus includes a main body for receiving control signals, and a cover covering the main body. The cover includes a receiving portion and at least one fixing portion. The receiving portion receives the main body, and the at least one fixing portion fixes the signal receiving apparatus to a housing of an electronic device. An electronic device using the signal receiving apparatus is also provided. |
| US08432668B2 |
Portable electronic device
A portable electronic device includes a main body, at least one first rotary arm rotatably connected to the main body, and at least one second rotary arm rotatably connected to the main body. At least one connection port is located on at least one of the first rotary arm and the second rotary arm. When the at least one first rotary arm and the at least one second rotary arm are flush with the main body, the at least one connection port is hidden. By rotating the at least one first rotary arm or the at least one second rotary arm until the at least one first rotary arm or the at least one second rotary arm is not flush with the main body, the at least one connection port is exposed. |
| US08432667B2 |
System, method and apparatus for supporting and providing power to a music player
An audio device supports a variety of digital music players and includes a cradle that physically holds any of a plurality of digital music players. A power port on the audio device provides power to a selected one of the digital music players, through a cable that is specific to the selected digital music player through a cable that connects between the power port and the selected digital music player while the selected digital music player is held within the cradle. |
| US08432666B2 |
Method of manufacturing a switchgear panel
A method of making a panel for a switchgear cabinet is provided. In accordance with the method one or more base plates, a plurality of main cover plates of different types and a plurality of auxiliary cover plates of different types are provided. One or more main cover plates and one or more auxiliary cover plates are selected and mounted to the base plate. One or more electrical devices are mounted to at least one of the selected main cover plate and the selected auxiliary cover plate. |
| US08432665B2 |
Solid electrolytic capacitor and manufacturing method thereof
An object of the present invention is to provide a solid electrolytic capacitor having reduced leakage current and a manufacturing method thereof. The solid electrolytic capacitor of the present invention includes a capacitor element including: an anode 3 composed of a sintered body of metal particles; an anode lead 2 provided so that one end thereof is embedded in the anode 3; a dielectric layer 4 formed on the surface of the anode 3; an electrolyte layer 5 formed on the dielectric layer 4; and a cathode layer 6 formed on the electrolyte layer 5 so that an exposed face 50 of the electrolyte layer 5 exists around the anode lead 2, wherein an anode terminal 1 electrically connected to the other end of the anode lead 2 and a cathode terminal 7 electrically connected to the cathode layer 6 are attached to the capacitor element, and a first resin part 10 is provided to cover a part of the anode lead 2 extending from the exposed face 50 of the electrolyte layer 5 of the capacitor element to the anode terminal 1, and a second resin part 8 is provided to cover at least the above capacitor element and the first resin part 10. |
| US08432664B2 |
Sealing member for capacitor and aluminum electrolytic capacitor using the same
A cylindrical sealing member for a capacitor has a circular first plane and a circular second plane placed oppositely to the first plane, and is provided with two lead holes that penetrate the first and second planes. This sealing member for a capacitor contains butyl rubber, and inorganic material oblate particles having flat surfaces. The sealing member includes a first portion, and a second portion in the vicinity of an outer circumference of the sealing member as well as in the vicinity of the two lead holes. In the first portion, the inorganic material oblate particles are scattered such that flat surfaces thereof are oriented substantially in parallel with the first plane. In the second portion, the inorganic material oblate particles are scattered such that the flat surfaces thereof are oriented substantially perpendicularly to the first plane. |
| US08432663B2 |
High permittivity low leakage capacitor and energy storing device and method for forming the same
A method is provided for making a high permittivity dielectric material for use in capacitors. Several high permittivity materials in an organic nonconductive media with enhanced properties and methods for making the same are disclosed. A general method for the formation of thin films of some particular dielectric material is disclosed, wherein the use of organic polymers, shellac, silicone oil, and/or zein formulations are utilized to produce low conductivity dielectric coatings. Additionally, a method whereby the formation of certain transition metal salts as salt or oxide matrices is demonstrated at low temperatures utilizing mild reducing agents. Further, a circuit structure and associated method of operation for the recovery and regeneration of the leakage current from the long-term storage capacitors is provided in order to enhance the manufacturing yield and utility performance of such devices. |
| US08432661B2 |
Microstructural body and production method therefor
A microstructural body includes a substrate such as an electrode substrate, a support portion, one post that fixes the support portion to the substrate, a frame-shaped movable portion provided around outer periphery of the support portion, and an elastic support portion that elastically connects the movable portion and the support portion. The elastic support portion supports the frame-shaped movable portion such that the movable portion is movable relative to the support portion. The elastic support portion includes torsion springs and an elastically deformable connecting portion. |
| US08432656B2 |
Method for feedback control and related feedback control loop and voltage regulator
A feedback control method of a pulse width modulator (PWM) voltage converter may include generating a control voltage as a sum of an offset voltage and an error signal representing a difference between a scaled replica of a regulated output voltage of the voltage converter and a reference voltage, comparing the control voltage with a ramp signal, the comparing operation generating PWM driving signals for the voltage converter, comparing the regulated output voltage of the voltage converter with an overshoot threshold, and reducing the control voltage when the overshoot threshold is exceeded. |
| US08432654B2 |
Multi-voltage electrostatic discharge protection
An electrostatic discharge (ESD) clamp, coupled across input-output (I/O) and common (GND) terminals of a protected semiconductor device or integrated circuit is provided. One ESD clamp comprises an ESD transistor (ESDT) with source-drain coupled between the GND and I/O terminals, a first resistor coupled between the gate and source and a second resistor coupled between the ESDT body and source. Paralleling the resistors are control transistors with gates coupled to one or more bias supplies Vb, Vb′. The main power rail (Vdd) of the device or IC is a convenient source for Vb, Vb′. When the Vdd is off during shipment, handling, equipment assembly, etc., the ESD trigger voltage Vt1 is low, thereby providing maximum ESD protection when ESD risk is high. When Vdd is energized, Vt1 rises to a value large enough to avoid interference with normal circuit operation but still protect from ESD events. |
| US08432651B2 |
Apparatus and method for electronic systems reliability
Apparatuses and methods for protecting electronic circuits are disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus for providing protection from transient signals comprises an integrated circuit, a pad on a surface of the integrated circuit, and a configurable protection circuit within the integrated circuit. The configurable protection circuit is electrically connected to the pad. The configurable protection circuit comprises a plurality of subcircuits arranged in a cascade, and selection of one or more of the plurality of the subcircuits for operation determines at least one of a holding voltage or a trigger voltage of the configurable protection circuit. |
| US08432647B2 |
Power distribution arrangement
An arrangement and a method for distributing power supplied by a power source to two or more of loads (e.g., electrical vehicular systems) is disclosed, where a representation of the power taken by a particular one of the loads from the source is measured. The measured representation of the amount of power taken from the source by the particular one of the loads is compared to a threshold to provide an overload signal in the event the representation exceeds the threshold. Control signals dependant on the occurring of the overload signal are provided such that the control signal decreases the output power of the power circuit in case the overload signal occurs. |
| US08432646B2 |
Magnetic detection element
Embodiments of the present invention help to reduce etching damage at end parts of a magnetoresistive sensor in ion beam etching. According to one embodiment, ion beam etching (IBE) is used in a magnetoresistive sensor track width forming step. This IBE irradiates Ar ion beam to a substrate in a state that the substrate is inclined and further rotates the substrate about its normal as a rotational axis. In a conventional track width forming step, the IBE irradiates the Ar ion beam to the substrate all the time while the IBE is rotating the substrate. By contrast, the IBE according to embodiments of the present invention irradiates the Ar ion beam to the substrate only in a predetermined specific angular range. |
| US08432645B2 |
Magneto-resistive effect element, magnetic head, magnetic head slider, head gimbal assembly and hard disk drive apparatus
An MR element includes a stack, being a pillar or trapezoidal stack, including first and second magnetic layers in which a relative angle formed by magnetization directions changes according to an external magnetic field, and a spacer layer that is positioned between the first magnetic layer and the second magnetic layer, and that is provided with a main spacer layer that is composed of gallium oxide, zinc oxide or magnesium oxide as a primary component, wherein, one part of side surfaces of the stack forms a part of an air bearing surface; and a cover layer that covers at least another part of the side surfaces of the stack and that is composed of gallium oxide as a primary component. |
| US08432640B2 |
Tape drive having a flangeless roller
A tape drive comprising a head configured to read data from a tape and to write data to the tape, a pair of flanged guide rollers arranged one on either side of the head to guide the tape longitudinally over the head, and a flangeless inertial roller arranged between a flanged guide roller and the head to add inertia to the tape so as to limit speed and movement of the tape as it passes over the head. |
| US08432639B2 |
PMR writer with π shaped shield
A perpendicular magnetic recording (PMR) head is fabricated with a pole tip shielded laterally by a pair of symmetrically separated side shields that extend from an edge of a trailing edge shield to form a shield with the shape of a π. The easy axis direction of the side shields is in the in-track direction. As a result, the side shields effectively shield the fringing fields of the magnetic pole tip from causing adjacent track erasures, while not adding their own fringing fields that could cause erasures even beyond adjacent tracks. |
| US08432638B2 |
Shielded perpendicular magnetic recording head
A magnetic recording head for perpendicular magnetic recording includes energizing means, a recording pole, and a return pole. The recording pole narrows to a tip region with leading and trailing write edges separated by first and second side edges. The tip region provides a low reluctance path for magnetic flux generated by the energizing means. The return pole has a shield flare projecting towards the trailing write edge. A gap separates a leading edge of the shield flare from the trailing write edge. The shield flare diverts magnetic flux from reaching the tip region, thereby shielding the recording medium beneath the shield flare from the magnetic field while the side edges of the tip region and the recording medium beneath the gap are unshielded. A rear flare smoothes the discontinuity at the trailing edge of the return pole, thus reducing the peak magnetic field under the return pole. |
| US08432633B2 |
System, method and apparatus for storage architecture for bit patterned media using both erase band and shingled magnetic recording
Storage architecture for bit patterned media uses both erase band and shingled magnetic recording. A hard disk drive may comprise a disk having bit patterned media with a plurality of data tracks arrayed in architecture pages having at least one of erase band mode (EBM), shingled mode (SM) and unallocated space. An actuator has a head for writing data to the data tracks of the bit patterned media. A control system monitors, reallocates and reconfigures the architecture pages from EBM, SM or unallocated space to a different one of EBM, SM or unallocated space to enhance performance of the hard disk drive. |
| US08432632B2 |
Magnetic disk drive using a non-volatile storage device as cache for modified tracks
Provided are a computer program product, system, and method for a magnetic disk drive. The disk drive has at least one disk platter having at least one recordable disk surface having an areal density of at least 200 gigabits per square inch. Either a diameter of the at least one disk platter is greater than 3.5 inches or the at least one disk platter rotates at less than 5400 RPMs. A read/write head reads and writes tracks of data with respect to the at least one disk surface. Modified tracks from write requests to write to the at least one disk surface on the at least one disk platter are cached in a non-volatile storage device for caching modified tracks. Modified tracks are cached in the non-volatile storage device to later destage to the at least one disk surface. |
| US08432631B1 |
Disk spindle assembly cartridge
A disk spindle assembly cartridge is described. The disk spindle assembly cartridge includes a base, a spindle motor attached to the base, a disk seated on the spindle motor, a disk clamp attached to the spindle motor, wherein the disk clamp secures the disk to the spindle motor, and a cover attached to the base. The base is configured to detachably mount a head stack assembly cartridge, where the disk is accessible to a head stack assembly pivotally mounted in the head stack assembly cartridge via an opening defined by the base and the cover. |
| US08432629B1 |
Disk drive centering sync frames on sync marks of a spiral track
A disk drive is disclosed comprising a head actuated over a disk comprising a plurality of spiral tracks. A first sync frame is first opened in response to a first frame offset during a first revolution of the disk, wherein the first sync frame corresponds to the head approaching a first sync mark in a first spiral track crossing. A first sync frame position error signal (PES) is generated representing a difference between a target framing of the first sync frame around the first sync mark and a detected framing of the first sync frame around the first sync mark. The first frame offset is adjusted in response to the first sync frame PES, and during a second revolution of the disk the first sync frame is second opened in response to the adjusted first frame offset. |
| US08432625B2 |
Lens and method for manufacturing same
In a method for manufacturing a lens, a substrate is provided which includes recess in a first surface thereof. A lens structure having a first desired lens surface and a second desired lens surface is formed in the substrate's recess. |
| US08432623B2 |
Zoom lens and imaging apparatus using the same
A zoom lens comprises, in order from an object side, a first lens group with a negative refracting power; a second lens group with a positive refracting power; a third lens group with a positive refracting power; and a fourth lens group with a refracting curved surface. Upon zooming from a wide-angle end to telephoto end, at least the first lens group, second lens group, and third lens group move, and a spacing between the respective lens groups are changed. The first lens group comprises; in order from the object side to an image side, a negative lens component with a negative refracting power and a positive lens component with a positive refracting power which are arranged on an optical axis with a predetermined spacing therebetween. The total number of the lens components in the first lens group is two. The second lens group comprises at least three lenses including at least one negative lens and at least one positive lens and comprises a plurality of cemented surfaces, at least two of which are obtained by cementing two face-to-face refracting surfaces of two lenses each having different curvature on the object side surface and image side surface. |
| US08432622B2 |
Image capturing lens system
An image capturing lens system includes, in order from an object side to an image side, a first lens element, a second lens element, a third lens element and a fourth lens element. The first lens element with negative refractive power has a convex object-side surface and a concave image-side surface. The second lens element with positive refractive power has a concave object-side surface and a convex image-side surface. The third lens element with negative refractive power is made of plastic material, and has a concave image-side surface, wherein an object-side surface and the image-side surface of the third lens element are aspheric. The fourth lens element with positive refractive power is made of plastic material, wherein an object-side surface and an image-side surface of the fourth lens element are aspheric. |
| US08432614B2 |
Substrate-guide optical device utilizing polarization beam splitters
An optical device including a light waves-transmitting substrate having two major surfaces and edges, has optical means for coupling light into the substrate by total internal reflection, and a plurality of partially reflecting surfaces (22a, 22b) carried by the substrate. The partially reflecting surfaces (22a, 22b) are parallel to each other and are not parallel to any of the edges of the substrate. One or more of the partially reflecting surfaces (22a, 22b) is an anisotropic surface. |
| US08432609B2 |
Photo-pumped semiconductor optical amplifier
An edge photo-pumped semiconductor slab amplifier including an undoped semiconductor slab. A first gain structure is formed on an upper surface of the slab and a second gain structure is formed on a lower surface of the slab. The gain structures can be resonant periodic gain structures including a plurality of stacked quantum well layers. Confining layers are coupled to the gain structures to confine a signal beam within the semiconductor slab. Heat sinks are thermally coupled to the confining layers. Optical pump sources are provided along the side edges or coupled to the end edges of the slab so that pump light is introduced into the slab through the edges to provide gain for the quantum well layers. |
| US08432607B2 |
Electrophoretic display device and method for manufacturing the same
An electrophoretic display device includes a lower substrate having pixel electrodes thereon to define a plurality of pixel areas; partition walls formed on the lower substrate to surround the pixel electrodes; electrophoretic dispersion liquid having a plurality of charged particles colored to display colors, the electrophoretic dispersion liquid filled into the plurality of the pixel areas defined by pixel electrodes and surrounding the partition walls; a membrane layer disposed on the partition walls and covering the electrophoretic dispersion liquid, the membrane layer comprising a plurality of hole patterns at portions corresponding to the plurality of the pixel areas; and an upper substrate bonded with the lower substrate such that the membrane layer is disposed therebetween. |
| US08432605B2 |
Electrophoretic indication display device
An electrophoretic display device comprises: a first substrate including a first electrode; a first insulation layer provided on the first electrode; a fluid layer provided on the first insulation layer and having fluid and charged particles; a second substrate facing the first substrate with the fluid layer therebetween and including a second electrode facing the first electrode; and a second insulation layer provided between the second electrode and the fluid layer and facing the first insulation layer. |
| US08432604B2 |
Methods of forming transparent structures and electrochromic devices
Transparent structures, electrochromic devices, and methods for making such structures/devices are provided. A transparent structure may include a transparent substrate having a plurality of micro- or nano-scale structures, at least one substance configured to block near-infrared or infrared radiation and partially cover at least substantial portions of the substrate and the plurality of micro- or nano-scale structures, and at least one photocatalyst configured to at least partially cover an outermost surface of the transparent structure. |
| US08432601B2 |
Electrochromic display module and composition with improved performance
An electrochromic display module employing a unique combination of architecture and electrochromic composition to provide an extended life to the module. The architecture may involve the use of an extended seal about a perimeter of a display portion where the composition is located. In this manner, the rate of solvent leakage from the composition may be substantially reduced. Additionally, the electrochromic composition itself may make use of particular low volatility solvents and constituent combinations so as to discourage the amount particle generation therein. Ultimately, an electrochromic display module having a useful life of more than about 3 years may be provided. |
| US08432597B2 |
Micro-mirror hinge
According to one embodiment of the present invention a digital micro-mirror device is taught that includes a pixel occupying an area of the device and a hinge coupled to the pixel and positioned such that at least a portion of the hinge falls outside the area of the pixel. |
| US08432595B2 |
Scanning image displayer, mobile phone, mobile information processor, and mobile imager
A scanning image displayer, including a beam provider emitting a laser beam; a beam scanner including a two-dimensional drive deflecting mirror, deflectively scanning the beam in a main scanning direction and a sub-scanning direction; and an optical element including a reflection surface before the two-dimensional drive deflecting mirror, deflecting the beam in a direction of the two-dimensional drive deflecting mirror such that the beam obliquely enters a mirror thereof. The two-dimensional drive deflecting mirror deflectively scans the beam to project the beam onto a surface to be projected, and the light intensity of the beam is controlled according to image information to form an image. A flat surface of a substrate where the mirror is formed is located parallel or almost parallel to an optical axis of the beam, and the reflection surface is located so as not to receive the beam deflectively scanned by the two-dimensional drive deflecting mirror. |
| US08432589B2 |
Multi-layer body having optical-action elements for producing an optical effect
A multi-layer body having a carrier substrate and a transparent layer at least partially arranged in a window or in a transparent region of the carrier substrate. The transparent layer has at least a first subregion and a second subregion with a varying refractive index, which are arranged in mutually juxtaposed relationship in the layer plane defined by the transparent layer, and are at least partially arranged in the window or in the transparent region of the carrier substrate. Each of the subregions has a plurality of periodically arranged nodes which form an optical-action element for producing an optical effect which is different in the front view and in the rear view in the incident light mode. |
| US08432587B2 |
Line printing device and method performing color conversion and halftoning on image data subjected to correction based on correction vectors associated with a pixel row and reference color
For each of a plurality of reference colors located at prescribed coordinates in a first color space (e.g., the RGB color space), there are associated, on an individual pixel row basis, correction vectors indicating correction amounts in the first color space. For each pixel datum of image data of first tone values (e.g., 256 tone values) of the first color space prior to a color conversion process, a correction process is carried out on the basis of the correction vector that has been associated with the pixel row to which a given pixel belongs, the correction vector also being associated with the reference color of a location surrounding the coordinates that indicate the pixel data in the first color space. The color conversion process and the halftoning process are carried out on image data composed of the pixel data that has been subjected to the correction process. |
| US08432583B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image-data acquiring unit acquires image data of an image. An image processing unit performs a predetermined image processing on the image data. A signal generating unit generates a scanning signal for determining a section of the image data for performing the image processing. A signal control unit stores waveform information of a scanning signal in a normal operation as a control signal, compares the control signal with the scanning signal generated by the signal generating unit, and detects an abnormality of the scanning signal. A scan control unit determines whether the image processing is to be continued based on a result of detection by the signal control unit. |
| US08432573B2 |
Printer, dedicated USB flash drive and printing system
A printer includes a processor configured to execute, when a dedicated USB flash drive is plugged in a second USB port, a process of (i′) making a USB ordinary storage region in the dedicated USB flash drive recognized as a removable drive while managing an access to the USB ordinary storage region in the dedicated USB flash drive, with respect to a host connected to a first USB port, and to further execute, when the execution file of a second application program is read and executed by the host, processes of (a′) renewing a command file in a command-purpose memory region with a command file received from the host; (b′) analyzing the command file currently renewed and taking out print data therefrom, and (c′) making a printing device execute printing based on the print data currently taken out. |
| US08432563B2 |
Systems and methods for dynamically re-configuring imager and caching modules to optimize raster image processing performance
Systems and methods for generating a dynamic re-configuration with a DFE imager and caching modules to optimize RIP performance by analyzing pages within the job that collect page with job heuristics and statistics. Enabling the functionality to assess the information, thereby re-configuring a digital printer's imager and caching module dynamically during the job RIP to achieve improved overall RIP performance. Accordingly, a system collects and assesses job statistics across multiple jobs to enable optimum performance over time. |
| US08432561B2 |
Image forming system with image forming device prioritization function and method thereof
In a system in which a plurality of image forming devices are connected on one or more image processing devices through a network, efficiency of image formation is improved by assigning priority, or by ordering, the image forming devices according to power consumption and wait time. An image forming device is selected according to one of the power consumption and the wait time. |
| US08432555B2 |
Image processing apparatus, image processing method, computer-readable medium and computer data signal
An image processing apparatus includes a document image acquiring unit, a first specifying unit and a second specifying unit. The document image acquiring unit acquires a document image representing a document. The first specifying unit specifies positions, in the document image, of a plurality of areas in interest which are arranged in a specific direction and which correspond to each other. The second specifying unit specifies a start position of an item in the document, based on the positions of the areas in interest. |
| US08432553B2 |
Phase from defocused color images
Phase differences associated with a defocused wavefront can be determined from a single color image. The color image, which is a measurement of intensity as a function of wavelength, is used to calculate the change in intensity with respect to wavelength over the image plane. The change in intensity can then be used to estimate a phase difference associated with the defocused wavefront using two-dimensional fast Fourier transform solvers. The phase difference can be used to infer information about objects in the path of the defocused wavefront. For example, it can be used to determine an object's shape, surface profile, or refractive index profile. It can also be used to calculate path length differences for actuating adaptive optical systems. Compared to other techniques, deriving phase from defocused color images is faster, simpler, and can be implemented using standard color filters. |
| US08432552B2 |
High intensity Fabry-Perot sensor
A sensor assembly having an optical fiber, a lens in optical communication with the optical fiber, a reflective surface spaced from the lens, for reflecting light from the beam back to the lens, a partially reflective surface positioned between the reflective surface and the lens, the partially reflective surface for reflecting light from the beam back to the lens, and an alignment device for aligning the lens and reflective surface with respect to one another, such that light from the beam of light transmitted from the lens reflects from the reflective surface back to the lens. The alignment device can have a rotational component and a base component, where the rotational component rotates to align a beam of light transmitted from the lens. The rotational component can also cooperate with the base component to move axially with respect to the reflective surfaces to align the beam for optimum power. |
| US08432550B2 |
Method and a system for determination of particles in a liquid sample
A method for the assessment of quantity and quality parameters of biological particles in a liquid analyte material. The method comprises applying a volume of a liquid sample to an exposing domain from which exposing domain electromagnetic signals from the sample in the domain can pass to the exterior, and exposing, onto an array of active detection elements such as CCD-elements, a spatial representation of electromagnetic signals having passed from the domain, the representation being detectable as an intensity by individual active detection elements, under conditions permitting processing of the intensities detected by the array of detection elements during the exposure in such a manner that representations of electromagnetic signals from the biological particles are identified as distinct from representations of electromagnetic signals from background signals. |
| US08432548B2 |
Alignment for edge field nano-imprinting
Systems and methods for alignment of template and substrate at the edge of substrate are described. |
| US08432544B2 |
Method for detecting BPA by surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy
A detection method of bisphenol A by the surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy includes: soaking and extracting bisphenol A present in a sample with an organic solvent to form an extraction solution, adding methanol to the extraction solution to cause a polymer to precipitate from the extraction solution and leaving a filtrate behind, filtering and concentrating the filtrate, diluting the concentrated filtrate to volume with methanol, filtering the diluted filtrate through a filter with a pore size of 0.45 μm to obtain a pretreated sample; detecting bisphenol A present in the sample by Raman spectroscopy under an incident laser power of 100 to 300 mW, and a scan time of 2 to 20 seconds; mixing the pretreated sample with the colloidal gold in an appropriate ratio, followed by adjusting pH value, and then carrying out the detection of bisphenol A present in the sample by Raman spectroscopy. |
| US08432541B2 |
Optical system for a flow cytometer with an interrogation zone
The optical system of the preferred embodiments includes a first light source that creates a first beam of a first wavelength, a first collimating element that collimates the first beam, a second light source 102 that creates a second beam of a second wavelength, a second collimating element that collimates the second beam, a beam combining element that combines the collimated beams, and a focusing element that focuses the combined collimated beam to a single point. |
| US08432534B2 |
Holding apparatus, position detection apparatus and exposure apparatus, moving method, position detection method, exposure method, adjustment method of detection system and device manufacturing method
By a force generation device which can generate a magnetic attraction and gas static pressure between a detection system provided on a lower surface side of an FIA surface plate and a surface plate, a predetermined clearance is formed between the detection system and the surface plate, and in a state where the clearance is formed (a floating state), the detection system is driven by a drive device in at least an uniaxial direction within a horizontal plane. Therefore, because the detection system is in a non-contact state to the base platform, movement (positioning) of the detection system with high precision becomes possible. Further, by setting an attraction larger than a repulsion generated by the force generation device, the detection system can be fixed (landed) in a state positioned with high precision. |
| US08432527B2 |
Light guide device
Light guide devices comprising an intermediate layer of low refractive index between higher refractive index elements are described. The light guide devices are suitable for use in backlights. |
| US08432526B2 |
Electro-optical device and electronic apparatus including the same
An electro-optical device includes a pair of substrates, an electro-optical material sandwiched between the pair of substrates, an electrode on one of the pair of substrates, an inorganic alignment layer disposed on the one of the pair of substrates, and a heat-dissipating layer disposed between the electrode and the inorganic alignment layer on the one of the pair of substrates. |
| US08432524B2 |
Illuminating device and liquid crystal display device provided with the same
Provided is an illuminating device wherein replacement of a light source is facilitated and generation of luminance nonuniformity is suppressed. An illuminating device (10) is provided with a light source module (5) which is attached to a bottom section (1a) from a rear surface side of a case member (1). On a prescribed section on the bottom section (1a), a through hole (1b) is formed, and a prescribed section of the through hole protrudes to the side of a storing space (10a). An LED (6) is arranged to face a light incoming surface (3a) of a light guide plate (3) by having the LED (6) protrude to the side of the storing space (10a) through the through hole (1b). |
| US08432523B2 |
Display substrate, display panel having the display substrate, and display device having the display panel
A display substrate includes a base substrate, a gate line portion, a data line portion, and a pixel portion. The base substrate includes a display area divided into first to fourth divided display areas, and first to fourth peripheral areas. The gate line portion includes a plurality of first gate lines, and a plurality of second gate lines. The data line portion includes a plurality of first data lines, and a plurality of second data lines. The pixel portion is disposed in the display area to be electrically connected to the first and second gate lines and the first and second data lines, respectively. |
| US08432522B2 |
Display device
The present invention is intended to control the color temperature of white exhibited by a liquid crystal display device. White is produced when light waves emitted through pixels associated with three colors of red, green, and blue have maximum intensities. The amounts of light emitted through the respective pixels are controlled by differentiating the shapes of the pixel electrodes disposed at the respective pixels from one another. Thus, the color temperature of white is controlled. Otherwise, the shapes of interceptive films disposed at the respective pixels are differentiated from one another in order to control light waves emitted through the respective pixels. Thus, the color temperature of white is controlled. The interceptive film may be shaped like the pixel electrode. Otherwise, the interceptive film may be realized with an interceptive pattern other than that of the pixel electrode or one of openings bored in a black matrix. |
| US08432516B2 |
Resin composition and image display device
An image display device has an image display part and a protective part on the image display part. The image display device suppresses image unevenness and cured resin peeling caused by internal stress generated due to curing shrinkage of a cured resin between the protective part and the image display part or external stress applied on the image display part due to warping of the protective part. A cured resin layer is arranged between the image display part and the protective part. The cured resin layer has a light transmittance in the visible region of 90% or more, an elongation ratio of 700% or more at 25° C. and 400% or more at 80° C., and an adhesive force with respect to the protective part of 0.4 N/cm or more at 25° C. and 0.3 N/cm or more at 80° C. |
| US08432513B2 |
Liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal display device according to the present invention (100) includes: a liquid crystal panel (200) having a front transparent substrate (210), a rear transparent substrate (220), and a liquid crystal layer (230) provided between the front transparent substrate (210) and the rear transparent substrate (220); a sidelight unit (300) mounted to the liquid crystal panel (200), the sidelight unit (300) including a light source (320) provided on a lateral side of the liquid crystal panel (200) and a light guide plate (330) provided between the liquid crystal panel and the light source; and a frame (310) to which the light source (320) and the light guide plate (330) are mounted. |
| US08432512B2 |
Backlight assembly and display device having the same
A backlight assembly includes a light source part, a total reflection plate and an array sheet. The light source part generates light. The total reflection plate totally internally reflects or transmits the light selectively according to an incident path of the light. The array sheet disposed on the total reflection plate includes a plurality of units having an incident surface making contact with the total reflection plate and an emitting surface facing the incident surface, refracts the totally internally reflected light at a contact surface between the incident surface and the total reflection plate to emit the refracted light, and emits the transmitted light as a non-refracted light. Accordingly, luminance of the display device is enhanced. |
| US08432511B2 |
Plane light source and LCD backlight unit having the same
There are provided a plane light source and an LCD backlight unit having the same. A plane light source having a plurality of light emitting devices arranged in a light emitting device matrix having rows and columns at a substrate according to an aspect of the invention includes a first matrix having a plurality of light emitting devices arranged in rows and columns; and a second matrix having a plurality of light emitting devices arranged in rows and columns, each of the light emitting devices located within a quadrangle formed by four neighboring light emitting devices included in the first matrix, wherein a pitch S between one light emitting device included in the light emitting device matrix and another light emitting device most adjacent to the one light emitting device satisfies the following equation to obtain uniform luminance distribution at a position distant from a light emitting surface of the light emitting device by an optical length l, S .ltoreq. l 2 .times. tan(.theta. 2+.alpha.), Equation where −.pi./18.ltoreq..alpha..ltoreq..pi./18 is satisfied, and .theta. is an orientation angle of the light emitting device. |
| US08432510B2 |
Liquid crystal display device and light detector having first and second TFT ambient light photo-sensors alternatively arranged on the same row
Provided is a liquid crystal display device including: a liquid crystal display panel; a light detector which is mounted on the liquid crystal display panel and has a plurality of TFT ambient light photo-sensors composed of thin-film transistors (TFTs) for detecting external light; an illumination unit which illuminates light on the liquid crystal display panel; a detection circuit connected to the light detector; and a control unit which controls the brightness of the illumination unit on the basis of the output of the detection circuit, wherein the plurality of TFT ambient light photo-sensors include first and second TFT ambient light photo-sensors for detecting lights of different systems, and, among source wires or drain wires of the first TFT ambient light photo-sensors and the second TFT ambient light photo-sensors, wires which are not connected to the detection circuit are formed by a single wire. |
| US08432509B2 |
Portable computer display housing
A display housing for a portable computing device that utilizes a plastic cover bonded to an internal metal frame is described. To account for thermal cycling issues and in particular to prevent bond slippage, multiple types of adhesives are employed to join the metal frame and the plastic cover. In particular, a very high bond (VHB) adhesive material is used in certain areas to bond the metal inner frame to the plastic cover and a liquid adhesive is used in other areas. The plastic cover can be translucent to light. A method of coating the plastic cover to block light, such as from a backlight used for the display, is described. |
| US08432506B2 |
Liquid crystal display device and related repairing methods
The present invention provides a liquid crystal display device and methods for repairing defects in the same. The liquid crystal display includes a display driver, an active area of the display panel, and a first signal line. The first signal line, connected to the display driver and the active area, has a defect. A repair line is disposed above the first signal line between the display driver and the active area, wherein the repair line and the first signal line have at least two overlaps without electrical connection there between. The repair line is continuous between two overlaps which are located at the two sides of the defect. Then the repair line and the first signal line are shorted at the two overlaps. And the first signal line is cut at the locations between the defect and the two overlaps. |
| US08432504B2 |
Backlight unit, display unit and television receiver
A backlight unit in which warping in a diffusion plate can be sufficiently prevented includes a light source, a diffusion plate arranged to diffuse light emitted from the light source and including a catching portion in a peripheral portion thereof, a support pedestal arranged to support the diffusion plate, an optical sheet arranged on the diffusion plate, and a diffusion-plate presser member arranged to engage with the catching portion of the diffusion plate and to sandwich the diffusion plate between the support pedestal. |
| US08432503B2 |
Method of manufacturing an array substrate for LCD device having doubled-layered metal structure
A method of forming an array substrate for a LCD device includes patterning a first metal layer and a first barrier metal layer to form a gate electrode, a gate line and a gate pad; forming a gate insulation layer to cover the gate electrode, line and pad; forming an active layer, an ohmic contact layer, a second barrier metal layer and a second metal layer including a copper (Cu) layer on the gate insulation layer; patterning the second metal layer and the second barrier metal layer by a first etching process; patterning an exposed portion of the second metal layer and the second barrier metal layer and ohmic contact layer to form source and drain electrodes each having a double layered structure of the second barrier metal layer and the second metal layer; and forming a pixel electrode on a passivation layer formed on the source and drain electrodes. |
| US08432498B2 |
Automatic frequency selection for peaking
An automatic frequency selection circuit includes a base filter for receiving a video input, a peaking filter for receiving the video input, a first energy computation unit coupled to an output of the base filter, a second energy computation unit coupled to an output of the peaking filter, an automatic frequency control unit to compare relative measured energies of the first and second energy computation units and to output a temporarily stable selected frequency for a targeted attenuation, and a frame delay feedback unit for receiving the temporarily stable selected frequency coupled to the peaking filter. |
| US08432496B2 |
Auto channel assignment for live productions
A method for auto channel assignment in a live television production system allows the user to assign physical play out channels to an auto pool of channels. The user need only create a single transition macro event (TME) template, which at the time of playout, causes the production system to assign an available channel from the auto pool of channels, without requiring any further user intervention. |
| US08432495B2 |
Video processor and video processing method
A motion compensator includes a video data selector, a video data editor, a vector reference data editor, a delay unit, a region data editor, and a delay unit. The video data editor outputs present frame video data and average video data. The vector reference data editor outputs previous compensation video data and present compensation video data. The region data editor outputs present frame region data, previous compensation region data, and present compensation region data. The video data selector selects one of four video data pieces based on the three pieces of region data and outputs the selected data to the video output unit. |
| US08432493B2 |
Method and apparatus for composition of subtitles
Embodiments of the invention include a subtitling format encompassing elements of enhanced syntax and semantic to provide improved animation capabilities. The disclosed elements improve subtitle performance without stressing the available subtitle bitrate. This will become essential for authoring content of high-end HDTV subtitles in pre-recorded format, which can be broadcast or stored on high capacity optical media, e.g. the Blue-ray Disc. Embodiments of the invention include abilities for improved authoring possibilities for the content production to animate subtitles. For subtitles that are separate from AV material, a method includes using one or more superimposed subtitle layers, and displaying only a selected part of the transferred subtitles at a time. Further, colors of a selected part of the displayed subtitles may be modified, e.g. highlighted. |
| US08432485B1 |
Optimized designs for embedding webcam modules with superior image quality in electronics displays
The present invention is an apparatus and method of manufacture for providing image capturing modules which can be embedded into thin displays (e.g., in laptop computers) while providing for improved image quality. In accordance with several embodiments, a webcam module embedded in a display has multiple positions. A first position (or a “rest” or “park” position) is the position of the webcam module when it is not in use. In this first position of the webcam module, it is in its most compact configuration, and lends itself to integration into a very thin display. In other positions, the webcam module has a more expanded configuration, thus leading to better image quality. Such an expanded configuration leads, amongst other things, to a larger depth of focus. In one embodiment, a stepped PCB is used to provide good image quality while maintaining a compact form factor as well as structural rigidity. |
| US08432484B2 |
Camera modules
A camera module may include a mount and a barrel coupled to the mount. One of the barrel and the mount may include a polycarbonate material and the other of the barrel and the mount may include a liquid crystal polymer (LCP) material. |
| US08432481B2 |
Image sensing apparatus that controls start timing of charge accumulation and control method thereof
An image sensing apparatus has an image sensing element which accumulates received light as a charge, a mechanical shutter which travels to shield the image sensing element, and a scan unit which makes a scan for starting charge accumulation. The image sensing apparatus executes the scan for starting charge accumulation prior to traveling of the mechanical shutter and controls the scan for starting charge accumulation and traveling of the shutter to serve as a front curtain and a rear curtain of a shutter. Note that a scan pattern setting unit (113b) sets the scan pattern of the charge accumulation start scan based on information associated with a mounted photographing lens. |
| US08432480B2 |
Interchangeable lens, camera body and camera system
A camera body to which an interchangeable lens is mountable includes a receiving unit operable to receive speed information, a first controller unit operable to select a shooting mode from a moving image shooting mode and a still image shooting mode, a second controller unit capable of setting whether to operate in a silent mode provided for a situation where a drive sound of a drive unit in the interchangeable lens is desired to be at a low level during the moving image shooting mode, a third controller unit operable to generate a control signal for changing light amount which is changed by a diaphragm in the interchangeable lens, at a constant speed based on the speed information, when the moving image shooting mode is selected and the silent mode is not set, and a body transmitting unit operable to transmit the generated control signal to the interchangeable lens. |
| US08432476B2 |
Media viewing
A portable electronic device comprises a display facing in a first direction, a video camera facing in a second direction substantially opposite to the first direction, and a wireless communications receiver operable to receive supplementary image data from a remote image source, the supplementary image data comprising an indication of where a supplementary image is positioned with respect to a reference image. The portable electronic device is arranged in operation to display a captured image from the video camera on the display of the portable electronic device. When the captured image comprises all or part of the reference image as displayed on a separate display associated with the remote image source, the portable electronic device is arranged in operation to display the supplementary image positioned with respect to the reference image, instead of the corresponding part of the captured image. |
| US08432469B2 |
Photoelectric conversion device
A photoelectric conversion device may include a plurality of A/D converters each of which receives a pixel signal from a pixel array that includes pixels arranged two-dimensionally. Each of the pixels may have a photoelectric conversion element. The pixel array may output the pixel signal in accordance with an incident light amount to the photoelectric conversion element. The plurality of A/D converters may convert the pixel signal to a digital value based on a reference voltage. The plurality of A/D converters may output the digital value. A reference voltage wire, which supplies the reference voltage to each of the plurality of A/D converters, may be branched into a plurality of branched reference voltage wires each of which is corresponding to one of the plurality of A/D converters. Each of the plurality of branched reference voltage wires may be connected only to constituent components in a corresponding A/D converter. |
| US08432463B2 |
Array-camera motion picture device, and methods to produce new visual and aural effects
A system and method for creating special effects comprising capturing an image of an object or objects in motion from each of a plurality of cameras aligned in an array, assembling the images from each camera into a series of images in a manner providing a simulation of motion from a perspective along the array with respect to the object or objects within the images when a series of images is displayed in sequence, wherein certain object or objects appear substantially stationary in time during the simulation of motion. |
| US08432455B2 |
Method, apparatus and computer program product for automatically taking photos of oneself
A method for capturing an image may include receiving a start command, determining whether one or more predefined conditions are satisfied, and capturing an image when the predefined conditions are satisfied. The start command and/or the predefined conditions may be dependent on an audible signal. The predefined conditions may include predetermined reception angles of the audible signal, ratios of foreground to background, and/or reception of a remote control signal. The method may also require that no visual feature is occluded. Individualized feedback may be provided which can direct a specific person within an image to correct a failed predefined condition. An apparatus and computer program product corresponding to the method are also provided. |
| US08432453B2 |
Method and system of starting snapping static scene
A method of starting snapping a static scene is applied to a system, which is electrically connected with an image-capturing device and a display device. The display device has a displaying zone for display a visual field of the image-capturing device. After an instruction of setting a block in the displaying zone is received by the system, a skin color coverage percentage of the block is calculated. According to the skin color coverage percentage, the system determines whether the scene within the visual field is stored or not. By the method and system of the present invention, a self-timer function is activated according to the skin color. |
| US08432452B2 |
Imaging system and information processing apparatus for presenting functional information relating to a shooting mode to an imaging apparatus
The present invention is directed to providing a shooting mode according to a user's need of an imaging apparatus, whereby a user can easily select the shooting mode. Firstly, an information processing apparatus provides a list, which includes a shooting mode corresponding to attribute information received from the imaging apparatus, to the imaging apparatus. Next, setting information including a shooting parameter of the shooting mode designated by the imaging apparatus from the list is transmitted to the imaging apparatus. The imaging apparatus selects one of the shooting modes corresponding to the setting information transmitted from the information processing apparatus, and executes image processing by using the setting information. |
| US08432447B2 |
Stripe pattern detection system, stripe pattern detection method, and program for stripe pattern detection
Disclosed is a detection system including a stripe pattern foreground filtering unit, a stripe pattern background filtering unit, a stripe pattern integration filtering unit, an isolated feature point removal unit, a stripe pattern area detection unit and a stripe pattern area outputting unit. The detection system utilizes a stripe pattern area filter value that directly exploits the shape of the stripe pattern in the local processing of each pixel in an image to detect the stripe pattern area. |
| US08432445B2 |
Air conditioning control based on a human body activity amount
According to one embodiment, an image processing apparatus connected to a camera device that images a processing target includes: an image information acquisition unit; an accumulation subtraction image information creation unit; a feature amount information creation unit; and an action content identification unit. The image information acquisition unit sequentially acquires, from the camera device, image information formed by imaging the processing target thereby. Based on a temporal change of the image information acquired by the image information acquisition unit, the accumulation subtraction image information creation unit accumulates subtraction information for a predetermined period, which is made by motions of a person present in a room, and creates multivalued accumulation subtraction image information. The feature amount information creation unit creates feature amount information in the accumulation subtraction image information, which is created by the accumulation subtraction image information creation unit, from a region where there is a density gradient in the accumulation subtraction image information. The action content identification unit identifies an action content of the person present in the room from the feature amount information created by the feature amount information creation unit. |
| US08432444B2 |
Method for monitoring surveillance area
A method of monitoring a surveillance area with sensors of a monitoring system has the steps of extracting from signals of the sensors elements of the surveillance area and attributes allocated to the elements, initially deriving text attributes from the attributes extracted from the sensor and allocating the same to the elements, and storing the elements and their attributes in a memory device. |
| US08432436B2 |
Rendering for an interactive 360 degree light field display
An interactive, autostereoscopic system for displaying an object in 3D includes a mirror configured to spin around a vertical axis when actuated by a motor, a high speed video projector, and a processing system including a graphics card interfaced to the video projector. An anisotropic reflector is bonded onto an inclined surface of the mirror. The video projector projects video signals of the object from the projector onto the inclined surface of the mirror while the mirror is spinning, so that light rays representing the video signals are redirected toward a field of view of a 360 degree range. The processing system renders the redirected light rays so as to interactively generate a horizontal-parallax 3D display of the object. Vertical parallax can be included in the display by adjusting vertically the displayed views of the object, in response to tracking of viewer motion by a tracking system. |
| US08432434B2 |
Camera and method for focus based depth reconstruction of dynamic scenes
A dynamic scene is reconstructed as depths and an extended depth of field video by first acquiring, with a camera including a lens and sensor, a focal stack of the dynamic scene while changing a focal depth. An optical flow between the frames of the focal stack is determined, and the frames are warped according to the optical flow to align the frames and to generate a virtual static focal stack. Finally, a depth map and a texture map for each virtual static focal stack is generated using a depth from defocus, wherein the texture map corresponds to an EDOF image. |
| US08432432B2 |
Eye gaze reduction
Eye gaze reduction may be provided. First, a location of a near-end camera relative to a near-end screen may be determined. Next, based upon the determined location of the near-end camera, a location may be determined for a video window on the near-end screen. The determined location for the video window may be configured to reduce an eye gaze error in a near-end image transmitted to a far-end device from the near-end camera. Then video data from a far-end camera corresponding to the far-end device may be received and rendered in the video window at the determined location for the video window on the near-end screen. |
| US08432424B1 |
Alignment of color planes in multi-beam multi-pass printers
Methods and apparatuses that facilitate the alignment of multiple color planes of a latent image in a multi-beam multi-pass printer. The methods include determining, during a first pass of a transfer medium of a multi-beam printer, a first time interval between when at least one light beam from a multi-beam device is detected and when a top of a page is detected at a selected location of the transfer medium, the multi-beam device including a plurality of light beam sources, and the first pass to form a first color plane of a latent image on the transfer medium. The methods further include selecting, based at least in part on the determined first time interval, a first one of the plurality of light beam sources to begin illuminating the transfer medium to create the first color plane on the transfer medium during the first pass of the transfer medium. |
| US08432422B2 |
Transferred medium
A transferred medium is provided. In one exemplary embodiment a transferred medium includes a projection part projected in a transferring direction. The projection part can be integrally formed at a front end of the transferred medium. The transferred medium can have a plate shape that can be nipped between a feed driving roller that is rotationally driven and a feed driven roller that is rotationally driven in contact with the feed driving roller. The transferred medium can also be configured to be transferred in the transferring direction with the rotation of the feed driving roller. Further, the transferred medium can include a plurality of the projection parts at its front end in a direction perpendicular to the transferring direction of the transferred medium with a predetermined pitch. Other embodiments of a transferred medium are also disclosed. |
| US08432416B2 |
Method for adjusting page display manner, mobile electronic device, and storage medium thereof
A method for adjusting a page display manner, a mobile electronic device, and a storage medium thereof are provided. In the present method, a scaling signal is first received. Then, a display ratio of a page in a touch screen is adjusted according to a variation of the scaling signal. If the display ratio is smaller than or equal to a specific ratio, the page is adjusted according to the display ratio and other open pages are displayed along with the page on the screen. Thereby, a user can resize the page, inspect all the open pages, and switch between all the open pages simply through the touch screen. As a result, it is made very convenient to browse multiple pages by using the mobile electronic device. |
| US08432410B1 |
3D graphics API extension for a shared exponent image format
A three dimensional (3D) graphics application programming interface (API) extension provides support for specifying images in a shared exponent format. The shared exponent format is used to represent high dynamic range textures in a compact encoding to reduce the memory footprint needed to store the image data compared with other high dynamic range formats. Image data is encoded to and decoded from the shared exponent format using a pixel processing pipeline. Image data encoded into the shared exponent format can be decoded and used as texture data during rendering. |
| US08432408B2 |
Data rate buffering in display port links
Rate matching for use in data links between a source device and a sink device is provided. A rate matching device includes a first-in-first-out (FIFO) buffer having a write pointer and a read pointer; a write control having a write clock to write an input data stream from the source device onto the FIFO buffer using the write pointer; a read control having a read clock to read data from the FIFO buffer using a read pointer, insert data to an output data stream and transmitting the data stream to the sink device; a processor to provide a bit number based on the write clock period and the read clock period, wherein the read control inserts blanking data into the output data stream while the read pointer is stopped in the FIFO buffer to allow the write pointer to move ahead by the bit number provided by the processor. Some embodiments are thus able to avoid buffer overflow or underflow scenarios. |
| US08432403B2 |
Media action script acceleration apparatus
Exemplary apparatus, method, and system embodiments provide for accelerated hardware processing of an action script for a graphical image for visual display. An exemplary apparatus comprises: a first memory; and a plurality of processors to separate the action script from other data, to convert a plurality of descriptive elements of the action script into a plurality of hardware-level operational or control codes, and to perform one or more operations corresponding to an operational code of the plurality of operational codes using corresponding data to generate pixel data for the graphical image. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one processor further is to parse the action script into the plurality of descriptive elements and the corresponding data, and to extract data from the action script and to store the extracted data in the first memory as a plurality of control words having the corresponding data in predetermined fields. |
| US08432396B2 |
Reflections in a multidimensional user interface environment
A graphical user interface has a back surface disposed from a viewing surface to define a depth. A visualization object receptacle is disposed between the back surface and a viewing surface and contains a visualization object. A reflection surface is defined such that a reflection of the visualization object is displayed on the reflection surface. |
| US08432394B1 |
Method and system for implementing clamped z value interpolation in a raster stage of a graphics pipeline
A method of computing z parameters for pixels of a geometric primitive. The method includes the step of accessing the geometric primitive comprising a plurality of vertices, wherein each vertex comprises a plurality of associated parameters including a depth parameter, z. During rasterization of the geometric primitive, respective z values are interpolated for each pixel of the geometric primitive. Each z value is represented within a predefined numerical range which substantially corresponds to a depth range between a near plane and a far plane related to pixel rendering. During the interpolating, the z values are allowed to exceed the predefined numerical range and roll over within the predefined numerical range. A multi-bit indicator is used to indicate when a z value for a pixel is outside of the depth range. |
| US08432388B2 |
Organic light emitting display device
An organic light emitting display device includes: a scan driver for supplying scan signals to scan lines and an emission control signal to an emission control line during a scan period; a data driver for supplying data signals to data lines; a second power supply supplying a second power at a high voltage level during the scan period and at a low voltage level during an emission period; and a plurality of pixels located at crossing regions of the scan lines and the data lines, the pixels controlling the amount of current supplied through organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs), each of the pixels located in an i-th horizontal line including: a second transistor having a second electrode coupled with an OLED; and a first transistor coupled between the second transistor and a data line and turned on when a scan signal is supplied to the i-th scan line. |
| US08432386B2 |
Switch device for source driver of liquid crystal display and operating method thereof
A switch device for source drivers of liquid crystal displays includes a first switch module; a first switch; a second switch; a second switch module; a third switch module; a fourth switch module; a third switch; and a fourth switch; wherein when a first driving signal with a voltage level between a first voltage level and a second voltage level through the second switch module is sent to a second output terminal and a second driving signal with a voltage level between a third voltage level and a fourth voltage level through the third switch module is sent to a first output terminal, the first switch is turned on such that a first node is connected to a first voltage source with the first voltage level and the fourth switch is turned on such that a second node is connected to a fourth voltage source with the fourth voltage level. |
| US08432383B2 |
Display module
A display module including a substrate having a plurality of pixels, a data line that supplies a data signal to a pixel, a current supply line that supplies electric current to the pixel, a data driving circuit that supplies a data signal to the data line, and a gate driving circuit thereon. The plurality of pixels are arranged in a display area of the substrate, and each of the plurality of pixels include a light emitting device, a first thin film transistor connected to the data line that supplies the data signal, a second thin film transistor connected to the current supply line, and a capacitor. The light emitting device includes a first electrode layer connected to the second thin film transistor, an organic layer formed on the first electrode layer, and a second electrode layer formed on the organic layer. |
| US08432381B2 |
Active matrix display
An active matrix display includes a substrate, a video signal line on the substrate, first and second power lines on the substrate, a self-emitting element having two display electrodes facing each other and connected to one of the first and second power lines, a drive transistor connected between the first power line and one of the display electrodes, a storage capacitor having a first electrode connected to a gate electrode of the drive transistor and a second electrode facing the first electrode with interposing an insulating layer, the storage capacitor and the gate electrode of the drive transistor being arranged under the display electrode, and a shield electrode arranged between the display electrode connected to the drive transistor and at least one of the first electrode of the storage capacitor and the gate electrode with interposing an insulating layer, and set at a constant potential. |
| US08432378B2 |
Touch panel display with light source modules and camera for touch point detection
An exemplary touch panel display includes a display panel, light source modules, and a camera. The display panel includes a touch surface. The light source modules are disposed on a periphery of the display panel. Light from the light source modules cooperatively forms a substantially planar illumination field. The camera is provided at a periphery of the display panel. When an object contacts or is adjacent to the touch surface, some of the light of the illumination field is reflected by the object to the camera. |
| US08432372B2 |
User input using proximity sensing
A device is described which enables users to interact with software running on the device through gestures made in an area adjacent to the device. In an embodiment, a portable computing device has proximity sensors arranged on an area of its surface which is not a display, such as on the sides of the device. These proximity sensors define an area of interaction adjacent to the device. User gestures in this area of interaction are detected by creating sensing images from data received from each of the sensors and then analyzing sequences of these images to detect gestures. The detected gestures may be mapped to particular inputs to a software program running on the device and therefore a user can control the operation of the program through gestures. |
| US08432369B2 |
Terminal device with display function
A terminal device with a display function enables only an operation of a desired operation key valid, and easily perform the invalidation operation. In response to switching to a predetermined function mode by manipulating a jog dial, an image in the switched function mode is displayed in a display surface, based on an image signal from a display control section. A bar is located on a borderline between a contents area and an operation area in an initial state of displaying an image. When the jog dial is manipulated by the user to thereby move the bar from the borderline to a predetermined position within the operation area, a CPU determines that the position of the bar has been moved. Then, the CPU detects a new position of the bar, and makes an operation with respect to the operation key located between the bar and the borderline invalid. |
| US08432367B2 |
Translating user interaction with a touch screen into input commands
Systems and techniques for translating user interaction with a touch screen into input commands. In one aspect, a touch screen system includes a touch screen graphical display, a command interpreter configured to identify modifier interactions with the graphical display and, in response to identification of the modifier interaction, modify the interpretation of other interaction with the graphical display, one or more persistent data storage devices. The data storage devices store a first set of rules for interpreting user interaction with the graphical display and a second set of rules for interpreting user interaction with the graphical display. The first set of rules interpret motion across a map or a proper subset of a collection of information as a scrolling or panning command. The second set of rules interpret the motion as a glyph. The command interpreter is configured to modify the interpretation of the other interaction by switching between interpretation under the first set of rules and interpretation under the second set of rules. |
| US08432362B2 |
Keyboards and methods thereof
An integrated keyboard includes a touch pad and a dynamic keyboard embedded in an area of the touch pad. The touch pad, which may provide a transparent surface to allow the keyboard to be visible, provides motion tracking in areas around the periphery of the keyboard and may be configured into many operating modes. For example, virtual touchable buttons may be configured in the periphery of the keyboard. The keyboard may be provided as a dynamic keyboard with various layouts. A keyboard protector may be provided for each layout, with printed symbols for the keys under the layout. The integrated keyboard may also include a mini-projector to allow projection of a large image on a surface and a virtual Human Interface Device (HID) system to facilitate data input. With the input capabilities of the touch pad and the keyboard, the projector may be controlled in many additional ways not available in conventional projectors that are controlled by a few buttons. The virtual HID may provide motion tracking. The integrated keyboard may interface with a master/slave device, such as a slate type device. A customized case tightly integrates the integrated keyboard with the master/slave device. |
| US08432361B2 |
Computer mouse
A computer mouse includes a driver module, a plurality of wheels, a control module, and a plurality of sensors. The control module is electrically connected to the driver module and the sensors, and is capable of controlling the driver module to drive the wheels. The driver module is capable of providing driving force and driving the wheels. The sensors are capable of sensing movement information of the computer mouse, and the control module controls the driver module to adjust the movement state of the wheels according to the movement information. Thus, the sensors can accurately sense and obtain the movement information to prevent the computer mouse from falling from a support plane. |
| US08432358B2 |
Methods and systems for enhancing television applications using 3D pointing
Systems and methods according to the present invention provide a control framework for organizing, selecting and launching media items including graphical user interfaces coupled with an optional 3D control device for collection of the basic control primitives of point, click, scroll, hover and zoom which permit for easy and rapid selection of media items, e.g., movies, songs etc., from large or small collections. The remote control maps natural hand movements and gestures into relevant commands while the graphical display uses images, zooming for increased/decreased levels of detail and continuity of GUI objects to provide easy organization, selection and navigation among the media items by a user. |
| US08432355B2 |
In-plane switching display devices
A drive method is provided for a display device using the movement of 5 charged particles with a pixel area, with each pixel having first and second drive electrodes (20,23; 22) and a pixel electrode (26). The method comprises a reset phase to move the particles in each pixel towards the first drive electrode (20,23), a pixel data loading phase, to cause selected particles either to stay in the vicinity of the first drive electrode (20,23) or move towards the 10 pixel electrode (26), and a drive phase to distribute the particles which have moved towards the pixel electrode over the pixel electrode (26). The address phase is line-by-line but can be made short, and the other phases can be carried out in parallel for all pixels, saving time. |
| US08432352B2 |
Backlight driving circuit and driving method for driving the same
A backlight driving circuit and a method for driving the same, which are capable of preventing a flicker phenomenon and delay of response, are disclosed. The backlight driving circuit includes a selective filtering unit for comparing dimming signals currently supplied for a current frame with dimming signals previously stored for a previous frame, to determine how abruptly an image of the current frame has varied from an image of the previous frame, and outputting the dimming signals for the current frame after modulating duty ratios of the dimming signals for the current frame selectively. |
| US08432351B2 |
Driving system for matrix type backlight module
A driving system for a matrix type backlight module having a plurality of light spots is provided. The driving system includes a timing controller providing a timing signal to control a starting up sequence and a turning on time for each of the plurality of light spots, a row driver electrically connected to the timing controller and providing a turning on time of the matrix type backlight module in a row direction according to the timing signal, and a column driver electrically connected to the timing controller and providing a turning on time of the matrix type backlight module in a column direction according to the timing signal. |
| US08432350B2 |
Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device with a transistor for supplying a current to a pixel comprising an EL element, that can supply an accurate current without the influence of variations even when a small signal current, is provided. A precharge voltage is supplied in advance for the current supply to a pixel and subsequently, the signal writing is completed quickly. The precharge voltage is outputted from a circuit for supplying voltage and current that supplies a current to a current source circuit for supplying a current to the pixel. As the precharge voltage, a gate voltage of a transistor for supplying a current to the current source circuit is supplied to the pixel. Optimum precharge voltage can be supplied in the case where W/L of a transistor in the pixel and W/L of a transistor for supplying current in the circuit for supplying voltage and current are approximately equivalent to each other. |
| US08432346B2 |
Liquid crystal display projector and method of controlling the same
A liquid crystal display apparatus is disclosed which can prevent occurrence of flicker regardless of display modes. The apparatus includes a liquid crystal modulation element which includes a liquid crystal layer between a first electrode and a second electrode, a controller which controls a potential difference to be applied between the first and second electrodes. The apparatus operates in first and second modes, which are different in the light amount entering the element. A memory stores first information for the first mode and second information for the second mode as controlling information on a potential difference between the electrodes for suppressing flicker within a certain range. The controller controls the potential difference between the electrodes based on the first information when the first mode is set and controls the potential difference between the electrodes based on the second information when the second mode is set. |
| US08432345B2 |
Display apparatus, layout method for a display apparatus and an electronic apparatus
Disclosed herein is a display apparatus, including, a pixel array section including a plurality of pixel circuits arrayed in rows and columns of a matrix and each including a light emitting portion, a plurality of signal lines disposed individually for the pixel columns of the matrix array of the pixel circuits and connected to the pixel circuits belonging to the pixel columns, and a selector circuit for distributing display signals given thereto in a time series from an input signal line time-divisionally to the signal lines, the pixel array section has, in regard to any of combinations of those two signal lines which are individually connected to the pixel circuits which belong to those two pixel columns which neighbor with each other, a first wiring region, and a second wiring region. |
| US08432338B2 |
Image display device having a plurality of pixel circuits using current-driven type light-emitting elements
An image display device having a plurality of pixel circuits arranged in matrix, each comprising current-driven type light-emitting element, driver transistor for supplying a current to current-driven type light-emitting element, holding capacitor for holding a voltage that determines an amount of the current supplied from driver transistor, and writing switch for writing a voltage corresponding to an image signal into holding capacitor. The transistor formed in each pixel circuit is N-channel transistor. Each pixel circuit further comprises detection trigger line and detection trigger capacitor for supplying a voltage to change a source voltage of driver transistor. One terminal of detection trigger capacitor is connected to a source of driver transistor and the other terminal of detection trigger capacitor is connected to detection trigger line. |
| US08432335B2 |
Organic light emitting display device
An organic light emitting display device for transmitting data using demultiplexers is provided. The organic light emitting display device includes: a demultiplexer controller for sequentially supplying control signals during a first period of a horizontal period; scan lines for transferring a scan signal; a scan driving unit for supplying the scan signal to the scan lines during a second period of the horizontal period; output lines for transferring data signals; a data driving unit for sequentially supplying the data signals to respective output lines during the first period; data lines for transferring the data signals; demultiplexers coupled to the respective output lines, for delivering the data signals to the data lines in response to the control signals; an initializing unit coupled to the data lines and an initial power source; and pixels located at crossing regions of the scan lines and the data lines. |
| US08432334B2 |
Organic light emitting display device
An organic light emitting display device, comprises a pixel unit including a plurality of pixels, each of the pixels including an organic light emitting diode having a first electrode, a second electrode, and an organic light emitting layer; a built-in-circuit comprising a driving circuit configured to drive the pixels; and a bus unit comprising bus lines configured to deliver pixel power to the pixels. The pixel unit, the built-in-circuit, and the bus unit are sequentially disposed from a central region of a display panel to an outer side of the display panel. The second electrode of the organic light emitting diode and one of the bus lines are electrically connected to each other through one of conductive patterns formed on at least a part of the built-in-circuit and at least a part of the bus unit. |
| US08432329B2 |
Antenna configuration provides coverage
The invention provides an antenna arrangement for a wireless communication system arranged to have at least one transmit mode and at least one receive mode, the arrangement comprising at least three directional antennas (601, 602, 603) in an antenna configuration. Each directional antenna is arranged to have an azimuthal radiation pattern shaped as a beam, each beam covering an angular sector, such that a combined radiation pattern of all beams in a first transmit mode is arranged to provide a full 360° omnidirectional coverage. By combining localization and polarization (P1, P2) of the directional antennas an omnidirectional radiation pattern substantially without null-depths in the azimuthal plane can be created when the radiation pattern of the directional antennas are combined. The invention also provides a corresponding method and a base station for communication with mobile terminals in a telecommunications network equipped with the antenna arrangement. |
| US08432326B2 |
Method and system for a smart antenna utilizing leaky wave antennas
Methods and systems for a smart antenna utilizing leaky wave antennas (LWAs) are disclosed and may include a programmable polarization antenna including one or more pairs of LWAs configured along different axes. One or more pairs of leaky wave antennas may be configured to adjust polarization and/or polarity of one or more RF signals communicated by the programmable polarization antenna. RF signals may be communicated via the configured programmable polarization antenna utilizing the configured one or more pairs of the leaky wave antennas. A resonant frequency of the LWAs may be configured utilizing micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) deflection. The polarization and/or polarity may be configured utilizing switched phase modules. The LWAs may include microstrip or coplanar waveguides, wherein a cavity height of the LWAs is dependent on spacing between conductive lines in the waveguides. The LWAs may be integrated in one or more integrated circuits, packages, and/or printed circuit boards. |
| US08432314B2 |
Antenna array method for enhancing signal transmission
In an antenna array, a metal layer is used for covering a block mapped by micro-strips, which are disposed on an obverse side of a base plate, on a reverse side of the base plate, so as to concentrating energy of radio signals emitted from radiator sets on a predetermined direction. The base plate and elements loaded by the base plate are fabricated according to designed specifications, so as to enhance the concentration of energy of the radio signals on the predetermined direction. |
| US08432309B2 |
Automotive radar system and method for using same
A radar system (44) for a vehicle (42) includes a transmit unit (56) and a receive unit (58). The transmit unit (56) includes a single beam antenna (72) for output of a radar signal (74) into a target zone (46). The receive unit (58) includes a single beam antenna (76) for receiving a direct receive signal (78) and an indirect receive signal (80). The receive signals (78, 80) are reflections of the radar signal (74) from an object (34, 36) in the target zone (46). The indirect receive signal (80) is reflected off the object (34, 36) toward a reflective panel (54) of the vehicle (42), and the indirect receive signal (80) is reflected off the reflective panel (54) for receipt at the receive antenna (76). The receive signals (78, 80) are summed to produce a detection signal (81) indicating presence of the object (34, 36) in the target zone (46). |
| US08432304B2 |
Error correction in thermometer codes
A thermometer coded line is configured to convert a time interval to a digital code for subsequent processing in order to output a value representative of said time interval. A digital peak detector is coupled to receive output from the thermometer coded line, the detector operating for correction of an undesired code of said digital code in order to ensure a valid output of said value. A majority logic circuit is coupled between the thermometer coded line and the digital peak detector, the logic circuit operating for correction of undesired code of said digital code in order to ensure the valid output of said value. The detector functions to correct any undesired code not corrected by, or introduced by, the logic circuit. |
| US08432300B2 |
Keypad membrane security
In an exemplary embodiment, a security sensor is present in a POS terminal between the keypad and a processor. The security sensor is configured to detect an unauthorized probe through the keypad and implement a security protocol. In an exemplary embodiment, the security sensor is a serpentine conductive circuit screen printed on the polyester film. The serpentine conductive circuit may cover almost all of the polyester film. For example, the serpentine conductive circuit may cover 90% to 100% of the film. Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, the serpentine conductive circuit limited to a section of the polyester film. For example, the serpentine conductive circuit may be on only ¼ of the film. This embodiment has the advantage of printing the serpentine conductive circuit on the critical security areas and leaving the non-critical areas with blank polyester film. |
| US08432291B2 |
Diagnostic system and method for home appliance
A diagnostic system and method for a home appliance is provided. When the home appliance outputs product information as a sound signal, a service center remotely performs fault diagnosis of the home appliance by receiving the sound signal, detecting the product information from the sound signal, checking the state of the home appliance using diagnostic data included in the product information to determine whether the home appliance is out of order, diagnosing, when water supply malfunction including a water supply error or a water level sensor error has occurred, a cause of the water supply malfunction, and deriving a solution to the water supply malfunction. Upon deriving a diagnosis result through the fault diagnosis of the home appliance, the service center immediately notifies the user of the diagnosis result and may dispatch a service technician or may provide the user with a solution to allow the user to easily fix the fault without dispatching a service technician. |
| US08432283B2 |
Enhancing the efficiency of energy transfer to/from passive ID circuits using ferrite cores
In one embodiment the present invention includes an RFID gaming token with a ferrite core. When the RFID gaming tokens are stacked, the ferrite cores steer the flux field from the excitation antenna through the center of the annular antennas in each token. The resulting flux field increases the efficiency of the energy transfer from the excitation antenna to the passive tags. This increased efficiency also improves the data transfer to and from the passive tags. This increased efficiency allows for reading RFID gaming tokens at a higher stack height (or at a better error rate for a given stack height) as compared to existing air core gaming tokens. |
| US08432281B2 |
Portable boundary sensor system and method
A method and system that creates a boundary with an alert and deterring function when the boundary is crossed. The system employs a base unit and one or more portable IR motion sensors which are capable of discriminating between objects of differing physical characteristics, and notifies the user when the parameters for sufficient obstruction have been met. Both sensors and base unit have audio and visual deterring capabilities to frighten away unwanted intruders. The method and system can be utilized in camping situations to deter dangerous wildlife and can be configured to notify users when children exit from an area. The system can be used to create a contiguous perimeter, or any boundary arrangement desired. |
| US08432278B2 |
Network-enabled device with improved status indication of said device's network state and device state using a single light indicator or a set thereof
A network-enabled device is provided. The provided network-enabled device includes at least one light indicator, and an electronic circuit capable of controlling brightness of said light indicator and driving said light indicator in a manner that allows simultaneous indication of at least a first dimension and a second dimension of said network-enabled device's operational state on said at least one light indicator using at least a first method and a second method of status indication. The present invention reduces the size, cost, and complexity—both internal and aesthetic—of network-enabled devices by combining the functions of the network LED (or a set thereof) and the device LED (or a set thereof) in a single status LED (or a set thereof). |
| US08432276B2 |
System and apparatus for alerting a user in response to environmental conditions
An apparatus and system 10,10′,10″ for alerting a user to an environmental condition comprises a stimulus means 18,20,22 positionable with respect to the user so as to stimulate the user in a tactile manner in response to a predetermined environmental condition. |
| US08432275B2 |
Mobile device safety
In an example embodiment, an automatic warning system that warns users of personal mobile devices (such as cellular telephones and portable music players) when they enter or are near the threshold of a hazardous area while using their mobile device. In an example embodiment, the mobile device is automatically paused upon entering a street and resumes when the user has crossed the street. In a cellular telephone embodiment, calls are automatically put on hold upon entering the hazardous area, optionally the other parties to the call are informed of the reason for the hold, and the call is automatically resumed when all parties have left the hazardous area. |
| US08432273B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing device recovery assistance
An apparatus for providing device recovery assistance may include at least one processor and at least one memory including computer program code. The at least one memory and the computer program code may be configured, with the processor, to cause the apparatus to perform at least causing a device to be registered with a service, receiving a verification procedure from a platform associated with the service, the verification procedure defining device recovery parameters associated with maintenance of a loss status indicator indicating a loss status of the device, causing a device identifier associated with the device to be stored in a permanent storage medium of the device, and enabling device location reporting based on the received verification procedure in response to a determination that the device is classified as lost or stolen. A corresponding method and computer program product are also provided. |
| US08432271B2 |
Driver alarm for preventing children from being left in car
A driver alarm for preventing children from being left in a car comprises a power device, a voltage measuring device, an inputting device, a prompting device and a controlling device. The power apparatus has a plug, which can be inserted into a cigarette-lighter socket in the car to become a power source for the driver alarm. The voltage measuring device is used to measure voltage of the cigarette-lighter in the car, the voltage rises when the car is started up and the voltage declines when the engine is turned off. The voltage measuring device reports to the controlling device about voltage rising or voltage declining. The inputting device is designed for a driver to report to the controlling device about whether children are in the cars or not. The promoting device is used to warn driver that there are children inside of the car when the car are started up or when the engines are turned off. |
| US08432270B2 |
Mobile terminal for bicycle management and method for controlling operation of the same
A mobile terminal and a method of controlling the operation of the same are provided. In the method, position information of a different bicycle user or bicycle riding course information is displayed. Riding information of the different bicycle user is displayed or the bicycle riding course information is changed according to weather or the like. The method provides a navigation screen for bicycle riding and supports prevention of bicycle theft and accident. |
| US08432268B2 |
Vehicle security system including pre-warning features for a vehicle having a data communications bus and related methods
A vehicle security system for a vehicle of a type including a vehicle data communications bus connected to a plurality of vehicle devices may include at least one vehicle security sensor interfacing with the vehicle data communications bus for generating a pre-warning signal or an alarm signal, depending upon a sensed threat level. The vehicle security system may also include an alarm indicator and a vehicle security controller. The vehicle security controller may interface with the vehicle data communications bus for causing the alarm indicator to generate a pre-warning indication based upon the pre-warning signal, or for causing the alarm indicator to generate an alarm indication based upon the alarm signal. |
| US08432266B2 |
Pull station
A pull station for an alarm includes a housing having an actuator mounted for movement with respect thereto. The actuator has a standby (i.e., normal) position and an alarm position. The actuator has a contoured actuation surface configured such that downward pressure on the actuation surface moves the actuator from the standby position to the alarm position. The actuator may be rotatably or slidably coupled to the housing. The actuation surface may extend beyond the front face of the housing when in the standby position. In some embodiments, the actuation surface is cup-shaped. In other embodiments, the actuation surface is v-shaped, with first and second angled portions forming oblique angles with respect to a lateral axis of the housing. Thus arranged, the actuator can be operated by a disabled who may not have complete hand or finger dexterity. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US08432265B2 |
Wireless sensor reader
A wireless sensor reader is provided to interface with a wireless sensor. The wireless sensor reader transmits an excitation pulse to cause the wireless sensor to generate a ring signal. The wireless sensor reader receives and amplifies the ring signal and sends the signal to a phase-locked loop. A voltage-controlled oscillator in the phase-locked loop locks onto the ring signal frequency and generates a count signal at a frequency related to the ring signal frequency. The voltage-controlled oscillator is placed into a hold mode where the control voltage is maintained constant to allow the count signal frequency to be determined. |
| US08432264B1 |
Motion-activated remote control backlight
An apparatus for performing remote control operations is provided. A remote control detects a particular movement, and performs operations based on the detected movement. |
| US08432262B2 |
Multiple near field communication tags in a pairing domain
A system and method for simply and securely pairing multiple Bluetooth or other wireless electronic devices in a network. Multiple Near Field Communication (NFC) read-only tags are places in a vehicle or other defined space, such that users of NFC-enabled electronic devices can pass their device near one of the NFC tags, which then transfers encryption key data to the user's device, allowing that device to be automatically joined to a small, secure wireless network. Various embodiments are disclosed for establishing and controlling the network, and applications are suggested for using the ad-hoc network—such as for the control of a vehicle's entertainment system. |
| US08432258B2 |
Apparatus and method facilitating communication between components of a radio frequency identification system
Several embodiments provide methods and apparatus to improve communications between an RFID reader and one or more RFID tags. In one implementation, an apparatus comprises a first antenna configured to communicate with a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader; a second antenna separate from said first antenna, and configured to communicate with at least one RFID tag; and structure electrically coupling said first and second antennas. |
| US08432255B2 |
Secondary data channels in RFID systems
One or more secondary data channels are added to existing RFID protocols within the existing bandwidth, data clock rate and message frame times of the protocols.An RFID system is described having at least one reader and at least one tag includes communication between the reader and the tag using a radio frequency carrier signal modulated by a modulation signal to provide a modulated carrier signal conveying digital data in either direction. The modulation signal includes a first encoded modulation signal perturbed by encoded perturbations, the first encoded modulation signal being produced from a first data string. The encoded perturbations are produced from a second data string. The modulation signal modulates the radio frequency signals to transfer data representative of the first and second data strings simultaneously between the reader and the tag. The modulation signal modulates the amplitude, phase, frequency or any combination of the radio frequency carrier signals. |
| US08432254B2 |
Semiconductor device
An object is to increase the reliability of a semiconductor device which is capable of wireless communication. The semiconductor device includes a plurality of functional circuits as redundant circuits, and each of the plurality of functional circuits includes an antenna and a semiconductor integrated circuit. The plurality of functional circuits is covered with one sealing layer in which a fibrous body is impregnated with resin. Further, the semiconductor integrated circuit is provided with a transmission/reception circuit electrically connected to the antenna, a power supply circuit electrically connected to the transmission/reception circuit, and a logic circuit electrically connected to the transmission/reception circuit and the power supply circuit. |
| US08432246B2 |
Electric circuit breaker apparatus for vehicle
An electric circuit breaker apparatus is used in a vehicle including an electric circuit having a converter and a storage battery. The electric circuit breaker apparatus interrupts power supply from the storage battery to the converter when a collision of the vehicle is detected. The electric circuit breaker apparatus includes a power supply circuit breaker driven by a low explosive type actuator, which is actuated when a collision of the vehicle is detected. Actuation of the power supply circuit breaker interrupts a power supply path connecting a positive terminal of the storage battery to the converter and grounds a portion of the power supply path closer to the converter than the interrupted portion. |
| US08432244B2 |
Power distribution transformer and tank therefor
Disclosed is a power distribution transformer having a body of the transformer, the body consisting of a coil and an iron core; a tank containing the body of the transformer and an insulation substance which fills an inner space of the tank; and an upper lid of the tank. The tank and/or the upper lid is made of a ferritic stainless steel. |
| US08432242B2 |
Soft latch bidirectional quiet solenoid
Embodiments of soft latching solenoids comprise a coil assembly (24); a plunger assembly (26); at least one flux conductor (28) comprising a flux circuit. The coil assembly (24) is fixedly situated with respect to a solenoid frame (21). The plunger assembly (26) is configured to linearly translate in a first direction along a plunger axis (32) upon application of a pulse of power to the coil assembly (24). The flux conductor(s) (28) is/are positioned radially exteriorly to the plunger assembly (26) to form the flux circuit. The flux circuit comprises the solenoid frame (21), the plunger assembly (26), and the at least one flux conductor (28). The flux circuit is arranged and configured so that the plunger assembly (26) is held in a plunger detent position upon cessation of the pulse of power. |
| US08432241B2 |
Contact arrangement having a bent cord, relay having a contact arrangement and method for assembling a relay
The present invention relates to a contact arrangement for a relay for switching high load currents. Furthermore, the invention relates to a relay for switching high load currents having a contact arrangement. Finally, the invention relates to a method for assembling a relay. In order to be able to assemble the contact arrangement in the relay in an at least partially automated manner, without additional retention devices being required for a cord, there is provision according to theinvention for the cord to be retained in an inherently stable manner owning to its shape as a self-supporting structure and for the method to have a method step in which the cord is shaped to form a self-supporting structure with a bent shape. |
| US08432239B2 |
Micro-electro mechanical tunneling switch
A micro-electromechanical system switch includes a substrate and a plurality of actuating electrodes formed the substrate wherein each actuating electrode is activatable. A cantilever beam has a first end and a second end and a plurality of stops formed thereon. The plurality of stops engages the substrate between the plurality of actuating electrode. A contact area is formed in the substrate and located to engage the second end of the cantilever beam. A voltage source applies a voltage to each actuating electrode independently in a sequence from an actuating electrode located adjacent to the first end of the cantilever beam to an actuating electrode located adjacent to the second end of the cantilever beam so that the plurality of stops sequentially engage the substrate between the plurality of actuating electrodes. |
| US08432234B2 |
Method and apparatus for tuning antennas in a communication device
A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a matching network for a communication device having first and second antennas, where the matching network includes a first variable component connectable and a detector. The first variable component can be connectable along a first path between the first antenna and a front end module of the communication device, where the first antenna is configured for transmit and receive operation. The detector can be connectable along a second path between the second antenna and the front end module of the communication device, where the detector obtains an RF voltage associated with the second path, where the second antenna is configured for a diversity receive operation, and where the first variable component is adjusted based on the detected RF voltage to tune the matching network. Additional embodiments are disclosed. |
| US08432231B2 |
Digital phase-locked loop clock system
A clock system includes a digital phase/frequency detector (DPFD), a buffer, a digitally-controlled oscillator (DCO) including a sigma-delta modulator (SDM), an adder, a first frequency divider. The DPFD may have a first input for a reference input clock and a second input for a feedback signal, and outputting a difference signal representing a phase and/or frequency difference between the reference input clock and the feedback signal. The first frequency divider may have an input for a clock signal and a control input coupled to the adder. The system clock also may include a phase-locked loop (PLL) including a phase/frequency detector that has a first input coupled to the output of the DCO and a second input that is phase-locked to the first input, and a second frequency divider coupled from the second input of the PLL to the second input of the DPFD. |
| US08432230B2 |
High accuracy oscillator and an auto-trimming method thereof
A high-accuracy oscillator obtains initial control bits to generate an initial signal and generates adjacent control bits to generate an adjusted signal from the oscillator based on the adjacent control bits. Characteristics of the initial signal and the adjacent signal are compared to a preset value to determine which of the initial signal and the adjusted signal is closer to a target signal. The closer of the initial signal and the adjusted signal to the target signal is output from the oscillator. |
| US08432224B1 |
Power amplifier with back-off efficiency
A power amplifier system is provided with a signal path including driver stages and output stages. A power control element has one or more control ports and uses one or more nonlinear control characteristics. |
| US08432219B1 |
Amplitude control system and method for communication systems
An amplitude control system including one or more multi-element array power amplifiers (MEA-PA), each MEA-PA including multiple amplifiers, multiple capacitors, and multiple enable circuits. Each amplifier has an input coupled to a common input node and an output coupled to a corresponding one of multiple intermediate nodes. Each capacitor has a first end coupled to an output node and a second end coupled to a corresponding intermediate node. The enable circuits are collectively controlled by an amplitude control value, and each is operative to enable or disable a corresponding amplifier. The enable circuits may be dynamically controlled to modulate amplitude. A coupling circuit may be provided to couple an intermediate node to a reference node when a corresponding amplifier is disabled to adjust a coupling ratio. Each amplifier, when enabled, may receive one of multiple supply reference voltages. The capacitors may have equal capacitance or may be binary-weighted. |
| US08432215B2 |
Charge pump
A charge pump for transmitting energy and data has a primary side, a secondary side and a first coupling capacitance by way of which the primary side is connected to the secondary side, wherein the primary side is designed to periodically transmit energy in the form of a charge packet to the secondary side with the first coupling capacitance during a charge pump interval, the primary side being designed to impress an item of data on the charge pump interval by modulation, wherein the secondary side is designed to receive the item of data by demodulating the charge pump interval, wherein the secondary side is designed to impress an item of data on the charge pump interval by modulation, and wherein the primary side is designed to receive the item of data by demodulation of the charge pump interval. |
| US08432214B2 |
Programmable temperature sensing circuit for an integrated circuit
A programmable temperature sensing circuit includes a comparator, first and second CTAT sensing elements, first and second PTAT reference circuits, and a selection circuit. When a selection signal is a first logic state, an output terminal of the first PTAT reference circuit is coupled to the second CTAT temperature sensing element for providing a first threshold voltage to the second input of the comparator. When the selection signal is a second logic state different from the first logic state, a series-connection of the first PTAT reference circuit and the second PTAT reference circuit are coupled to the second CTAT temperature sensing element for providing a second threshold voltage to the second input of the comparator. The comparator provides an output voltage indication when a voltage provided by the first CTAT sensing element compares favorably with the selected one of the first or second threshold voltages. |
| US08432211B2 |
Mixer-transconductance interface
Techniques for providing an efficient interface between a mixer block and a transconductance (Gm) block. In an exemplary embodiment, the output currents of at least two unit cells of the transconductance block are conductively coupled together, and coupled to the mixer block using a single conductive path. For a differential signal, the conductive path may include two conductive leads. Within the mixer block, the single conductive path may be fanned out to at least two unit cells of the mixer block. At least one Gm unit cell may be selectively enabled or disabled to control the gain setting of the mixer-transconductance block. The techniques may further be applied to transceiver architectures supporting in-phase and quadrature mixing, as well as multi-mode and/or multi-band operation. |
| US08432210B2 |
Fine-grained clock skew tuning in an integrated circuit
An apparatus for controlling clock skew in an integrated circuit (IC) includes timing circuitry operative to generate a clock signal for distribution in the IC and at least one buffer circuit operative to receive the clock signal, or a signal indicative of the clock signal, and to generate a delayed version of the clock signal as an output thereof. The buffer circuit includes at least first and second inverter stages and a resistive-capacitive (RC) loading structure. An output of the first inverter stage is connected to an input of the second inverter stage via the RC loading structure. The buffer circuit has a delay associated therewith that is selectively varied as a function of one or more adjustable characteristics of the RC loading structure. Clock skew in the IC is controlled as a function of the delay of the buffer circuit. |
| US08432207B1 |
Method and apparatus for correcting the duty cycle of a high speed clock
Methods and apparatuses are provided for duty cycle correction of high-speed clock circuits. The apparatus includes a duty cycle interpolator receiving a clock source for providing a duty cycle corrected clock signal. The duty cycle corrected clock signal is filtered and compared to a reference signal, the result of which is clocked into a shift register. The shift register provides complementary N-bit duty cycle correction signals to the duty cycle interpolator for adjusting the duty cycle of the clock signal to provide the duty cycle corrected clock signal. The method includes filtering a duty cycle corrected clock signal to provide a filtered signal and comparing the filtered signal to a reference signal, the result of is clocked into a shift register. The shift register provides complementary N-bit duty cycle correction signals to a duty cycle interpolator for adjusting the duty cycle of a clock signal. |
| US08432204B1 |
Current-controlled oscillator (CCO) based PLL
A PLL circuit includes a phase frequency detector; a programmable charge pump coupled to an output of the phase frequency detector; a loop filter coupled to an output of the charge pump, the loop filter providing a fine tuning voltage; a first voltage-to-current converter, the first voltage-to-current converter providing a fine tuning current corresponding to the fine tuning voltage; a current-controlled oscillator (CCO); a feedback divider coupled to an output of the CCO and an input of the phase frequency detector; and an analog calibration circuit. The analog calibration circuit provides a coarse adjustment current for coarse adjustments to a frequency pivot point for an oscillator frequency of the CCO, wherein the CCO generates a frequency signal at an output responsive to a summed coarse adjustment and fine tuning current, wherein the frequency pivot point is continuously adjustable. |
| US08432203B2 |
System including circuitry for controlling a characteristic of a periodic signal and method for adjusting a signal
System and circuitry controlling characteristics of periodic signals. In one embodiment adjustment circuitry modifies periodic signal characteristic. A phase detector generates analog input signals indicative of a phase difference between the periodic signal and a reference signal. Conversion circuitry translates the analog input signals into digital signals. Signal driving circuitry, comprising a current source, provides control signals to the signal driving circuitry based on the digital signals. First input circuitry provides a first adjustment signal to the adjustment circuitry. Second input circuitry provides a second adjustment signal to the adjustment circuitry in response to the control signal. The first adjustment signal is based on input of analog signals to a circuit element in the first input circuitry to control the first adjustment signal. The second input circuitry is responsive to the control signal to provide the second adjustment signal with the digital version of the input signals. |
| US08432202B2 |
Digital locked loops and methods with configurable operating parameters
A locked loop may have an adjustable hysteresis and/or a tracking speed that can be programmed by a user of an electronic device containing the locked loop or controlled by an integrated circuit device containing the locked loop during operation of the device. The looked loop may include a phase detector having a variable hysteresis, which may be coupled to receive a reference clock signal and an output clock signal from a phase adjustment circuit through respective frequency dividers that can vary the rate at which the phase detector compares the phase of the output clock signal to the phase of the reference clock signal, thus varying the tracking speed of the loop. The hysteresis and tracking speed of the locked loop may be programmed using a variety of means, such as by a temperature sensor for the electronic device, a mode register, a memory device command decoder, etc. |
| US08432201B1 |
Phase-locked loop (PLL) circuit
A phase-locked loop (PLL) generates an oscillator signal based on an input reference signal. A voltage-to-current oscillator converts generates the oscillator signal based on a control. A charge pump circuit generates the charge pump current based on an error (feedback) signal. A low pass filter generates the control voltage based on the charge pump current. A capacitor is connected to an input terminal of the low pass filter that is charged to a voltage level of the control voltage by the low pass filter when the PLL is switched OFF. The voltage across the capacitor is buffered and fed back to the low pass filter when the PLL is switched ON, to reduce time taken by the VCO to generate the oscillator signal. The PLL is used in an electronic circuit to reduce the wake-up time of the electronic circuit. |
| US08432200B1 |
Self-tracking adaptive bandwidth phase-locked loop
A phase-locked loop (PLL) generates an oscillator signal based on an input reference signal. A voltage-to-current converter converts a control voltage to a first current and a current-controlled oscillator generates the oscillator signal based on the first current. A dual charge pump circuit generates first and second charge pump currents having a predetermined ratio based on fractions of the calibration current and the first current and an error (feedback) signal. An active loop filter generates the control voltage based on the first and second charge pump currents and includes a transconductance stage having a transconductance that varies with the variation in a third current. The variation in the transconductance causes the second charge pump current to vary, which in turn adjusts the predetermined ratio between the first and second charge pump currents. |
| US08432199B2 |
Fractional digital PLL with analog phase error compensator
Disclosed is a fractional digital phase locked loop with an analog phase error compensator. The digital phase locked loop with an analog phase error compensator can reduce excessive power consumption and power noise and transient current noise while increasing phase error detection resolution by performing fractional phase error detection and compensation through the analog phase error compensator. |
| US08432197B2 |
Nonlinear and concurrent digital control for a highly digital phase-locked loop
A phase-locked loop circuitry includes an oscillator circuitry having an input and an output. A phase detector circuit is connected to the output of the oscillator circuitry and has outputs thereof. A digital loop filter circuit is connected to the outputs of the phase detector circuitry and has outputs thereof. The outputs of the digital loop filter circuit are coupled, through a summing circuit, to the input of the oscillator circuitry. Values associated with the outputs of the digital loop filter circuit are updated concurrently based upon values associated with the outputs of the phase detector circuitry. One output of the digital loop filter circuitry has a high-pass transfer function. |
| US08432190B2 |
Semiconductor device with reduced power consumption
A semiconductor device includes a reduced-power-consumption circuit block which includes first and second power lines, and a first circuit cell. The first circuit cell includes a first functional-element-free region. The first functional-element-free region includes a first driver circuit configured to connect and disconnect the first power line and the second power line. |
| US08432189B1 |
Digital voltage level shifter
A dual supply bidirectional level shifter performs voltage level shifting in two directions, low to high and high to low. A feedback control branch and a control stage inverter are provided that reduce leakage power and allow for low delay time while also allowing for a small circuit footprint. |
| US08432187B2 |
Nonvolatile latch circuit and logic circuit, and semiconductor device using the same
To provide a novel nonvolatile latch circuit and a semiconductor device using the nonvolatile latch circuit, a nonvolatile latch circuit includes a latch portion having a loop structure where an output of a first element is electrically connected to an input of a second element, and an output of the second element is electrically connected to an input of the first element; and a data holding portion configured to hold data of the latch portion. In the data holding portion, a transistor using an oxide semiconductor as a semiconductor material for forming a channel formation region is used as a switching element. In addition, a capacitor electrically connected to a source electrode or a drain electrode of the transistor is included. |
| US08432186B1 |
Programmable logic switch
One embodiment provides a programmable logic switch in which a first nonvolatile memory and a second nonvolatile memory are formed in the same well, and in which to change the first nonvolatile memory from an erased state to a written state and leave the second nonvolatile memory being in the erased state, a first write voltage is applied to a first line connected with gate electrodes of the first and second nonvolatile memories, a second write voltage is applied to a second line connected to a source in the first nonvolatile memory, and a third write voltage lower than the second write voltage is applied to a fourth line connected to a source of the second nonvolatile memory. |
| US08432184B2 |
Termination device and system and method for termination for an alarm system peripheral device
A termination device and a system and a method terminate a peripheral device of an alarm system. The termination device connects to wiring extending from the peripheral device. The termination device may have a resistor, a diode and/or a similar component which provides electrical resistance. The termination device may have a potentiometer which may enable a user to adjust the electrical resistance. The termination device may have a blade which cuts the wiring. |
| US08432183B2 |
Element substrate and printed wiring board
An element substrate includes a plurality of terminals, a first receiving circuit and a second receiving circuit each receiving a differential signal via one of the terminals included in the plurality of terminals, a driving circuit including a first input unit for inputting a first signal and a second input unit for inputting a second signal and driving a driving element based on the first signal and the second signal, and a setting circuit for setting a first connection state of connecting an output from the first receiving circuit to the first input unit and connecting an output from the second receiving circuit to the second input unit, and a second connection state of connecting an output from the first receiving circuit to the second input unit and connecting an output from the second receiving circuit to the first input unit based on an externally input signal. |
| US08432182B2 |
USB isolator with advanced control features
A USB-based isolator system conveys USB signals between a pair of galvanically isolated circuit systems and supports controlled enumeration by a downstream device on upstream USB signal lines. The isolator system provides a multi-mode voltage regulator to support multiple voltage supply configurations. The isolator system further provides control systems for each of the isolated circuit systems and provides robust control in a variety of start up conditions. Additionally, the isolator system includes refresh timers and watchdog mechanisms to support persistent operation but manage possible communication errors that can arise between the isolated circuit systems. |
| US08432181B2 |
Method and apparatus for reconfigurable at-speed test clock generator
A reconfigurable number of at-speed pulses and reconfigurable dead cycles between pulses is utilized to enhance test coverage of an Integrated Circuit. A reconfigurable number of programmable at-speed phase-locked loop clock pulses without a dead cycle is emitted through an integrated circuit. Further, a plurality of programmable at-speed phase-locked loop clock pulses is emitted through the Integrated Circuit such that a reconfigurable number of dead cycles is between the plurality of programmable at-speed phase locked loop clock pulses. In addition, data associated with the reconfigurable number of programmable at-speed phase-locked loop clock pulses is capture. Finally, data associated with the reconfigurable number of dead cycles is captured. |
| US08432176B2 |
Apparatus and method for testing semiconductor devices
A test apparatus for testing semiconductor integrated circuits includes a test head, a probe card holder for detachably holding a probe card that probes a semiconductor device, a heater for heating the probe card, and a heater holder that holds the heater in direct contact with the probe card when the probe card is held by the probe card holder. The test apparatus heats the probe card efficiently and thereby reduces test time and cost. |
| US08432174B2 |
Interrogation circuit for a nanowire sensor array and a method for interrogating a nanowire sensor array
An interrogation circuit for a nanowire sensor array and a method for interrogating a nanowire sensor array are provided. The circuit comprises a switch array connected to the nanowire sensor array for selectively connecting first ends of nanowire sensors of the nanowire sensor array to a reference voltage; an integration amplifier (IA) connected to second ends of the nanowire sensors at a first input of the IA and to the reference voltage at a second input of the IA, for generating an oscillating output signal clamped between first and second voltage values; wherein the switch array is further arranged for switching one of the nanowire sensors to be connected in a closed loop with the IA such that a current through said one nanowire sensor periodically charges and discharges an integration capacitor of the IA for determining a resistance of said one nanowire sensor from a frequency of the periodic charging and discharging. |
| US08432166B2 |
Balanced steady-state free-precession transient imaging using variable flip angles for a predefined signal profile
A magnetic resonance imaging system or method is provided including a balanced steady-state free-precession transient imaging (transient bSSFP) device capable of increasing the overall signal during transient bSSFP acquisition by fully or better utilization of the magnetization through variable RF flip angles. The transient bSSFP device is capable of generating a series of echoes with a desired transverse magnetization profile MT. It is further capable of generating RF pulses each having a distinct RF flip angle for each of the echoes in the series of echoes. The transient bSSFP device is coupled to a computer capable of calculating the distinct RF flip angle for the nth echo in the series of echoes. The computer calculation utilizes a program encoding an analytical inversion of the Bloch equation. Once the RF flip angle is calculated, it is used by the transient bSSFP device in the generation of the nth echo. |
| US08432165B2 |
Simultaneous excitation and acquisition in magnetic resonance
A method for magnetic resonance spectroscopy (=MRS) or magnetic resonance imaging (=MRI) in which an NMR time-domain signal is generated by an excited transverse nuclear magnetization precessing about the applied magnetic field, whereby the RF excitation pulse is adapted to cover a whole range of NMR frequencies of interest present in the object, and time-domain signal acquisition takes place during, or during and after the application of the RF excitation pulse, is characterized in that spectral or image data are reconstructed by a matrix product of a reconstruction matrix and a vector of time-domain signal points, the reconstruction matrix being an inversion of an encoding matrix. An improved method for reconstructing spectral or image data from a time-domain signal is thereby provided which is more versatile than conventional Fourier transform. |
| US08432161B2 |
Frequency selection method and hardening depth measurement method of eddy current measurement
Disclosed is a method of appropriately and easily selecting a combination of two different frequencies of an AC exciting signal used for eddy current measurement while decreasing or removing the dependence of the measurement accuracy on temperature. Three or more AC exciting signals of different frequencies are applied to an object under measurement by an exciting coil, and an induced current is produced. Detection signals corresponding to the frequencies are detected by a detection coil, and the phase difference between each detection signal and the AC exciting signal corresponding to each frequency is calculated from the detection signals corresponding to the frequencies. From the phase differences, a combination of two frequencies the phase differences of which are within a predetermined range is extracted. The lower frequency of the extracted combination is used for a first frequency, and the higher one is used as a second frequency. Thus, the combination of two frequencies are selected. |
| US08432159B2 |
Method and apparatus for monitoring wall thinning of a pipe using magnetostrictive transducers and variation of dispersion characteristics of broadband multimode shear horizontal (SH) waves
Magnetostrictive transducers for monitoring wall thinning in a pipe, and an apparatus and method for monitoring wall thinning in a pipe using magnetostrictive transducers are provided. The magnetostrictive transducers generate broadband multimode shear horizontal (SH) waves, and allow the generated SH waves to travel along the pipe, thus correctly monitoring a status of the wall thinning of the pipe. The apparatus includes a transmitting transducer which is installed outside of a pipe and generates shear horizontal (SH) waves traveling along the pipe, a receiving transducer which is spaced apart from the transmitting transducer and measures the shear horizontal (SH) waves traveling along the pipe, and a controller for monitoring wall thinning of the pipe by exciting and measuring output signals of the transmitting and receiving transducers. |
| US08432158B2 |
Apparatus and method for determining speed and direction of slotted targets utilizing dual magnetic sensor packaging
A magnetic sensing apparatus and method that determines the speed and direction of gears or slotted targets. A magnet can be placed proximate to the slotted target to create a magnetic field. An integrated circuit is formed on a substrate containing two or more magnetoresistive sensors occupying the same area. This integrated circuit is biased from the magnet which is placed in close proximity. The magnetoresistive sensors are intertwined with the first magnetoresistive sensor, offset from the second magnetoresistive sensor. The magnetoresistive sensors produce phase shifted output signals representing magnetic flux flowing through the magnetoresistive sensors such that the magnetoresistive sensors are reactive to gap and angular changes in the circular track of the ferrous target. The phase shift of the signals needed to determine direction is sufficiently maintained for a variety of target feature sizes and spacing. |
| US08432155B2 |
Signal status diagnosing device for external control means to be activated when fed with driving electric power by on/off signal transmitted through insulating means
A signal status diagnosing device of an external control unit, including an insulation transformer having a primary side, a secondary side and an intermediate tap at a midpoint of the primary winding, the secondary side is connected the external control unit. The device further includes a signal generating unit for generating a periodically vibrating voltage which is connected to the primary side of the insulation transformer, a switch circuit which is connected to the intermediate tap of the primary winding of the insulation transformer, the switch circuit has a switch and a resistance being connected to the intermediate tap in parallel with each other, and a current measuring unit connected to the switch circuit and configured to measure a first current which flows in the switch or the resistance to diagnose signal status of the external control unit. |
| US08432149B2 |
Array column integrator
The described embodiments may provide a chemical detection circuit with an improved signal-to-noise ration. The chemical detection circuit may include a current source, a chemical detection pixel, an amplifier and a capacitor. The chemical detection pixel may comprise a chemical-sensitive transistor that may have a first and second terminals and a row-select switch coupled between the current source and chemically-sensitive transistor. The amplifier may have a first input and a second input, with the first input coupled to an output of the chemically-sensitive transistor via a switch and the second input coupled to an offset voltage line. The capacitor may be coupled between an output of the amplifier and the first input of the amplifier. The capacitor and amplifier may form an integrator and may be shared by a column of chemical detection pixels. |
| US08432148B2 |
Apparatus and method for a smooth powerup of a reference signal
A circuit for providing a reference voltage can be widely used in audio applications. However, at startup an abrupt start in the reference signal can cause undesirable audible artifacts. A circuit employing feedback of a reference voltage to control the charging of a capacitor which provides the reference voltage can be used to provide a smooth startup to the reference voltage. The circuit contains a differential pair for steering a fixed current source from one path to another as the reference voltage increases. The steered current can then be mirrored into one ore more current mirrors where the newly mirrored current can be squeezed to zero when the difference between a desired reference voltage and the reference voltage approaches zero. This newly mirrored current can be used to charge a capacitor which is used to provide the reference voltage. |
| US08432146B2 |
Correcting pre-bias during turn-on of switching power regulators
Rather than operating in asynchronous mode during turn-on ramps, a switching power regulator system may be configured to synthesize a digital waveform, which may protect against a pre-bias condition and maintain the desired ramp-up time and rate. The desired turn-on ramp may be generated digitally by counter logic, beginning with an initial value and incrementing at a programmed rate until a digital value equivalent to the desired output voltage is reached. When a pre-bias condition is not present, the output of the digital ramp generator may control a digital-to-analog converter (DAC), which may be configured to generate the reference voltage for the power regulator. To correct for a pre-bias condition, the pre-bias output of the power regulator may be measured prior to turn-on, using an analog-to-digital converter. The digital pre-bias value may be used to control the DAC until the value of the digital waveform generated by the ramp generator reaches the pre-bias value. |
| US08432143B2 |
Electrically parallel connection of photovoltaic modules in a string to provide a DC voltage to a DC voltage bus
An arrangement comprising at least a first photovoltaic module and a second photovoltaic module in a string is disclosed. The first photovoltaic module and second photovoltaic module are electrically connected in parallel and arranged to provide a DC voltage to a voltage bus. Also, an electrical connecting device configured for connecting to a photovoltaic module is disclosed. The electrical connecting device comprises first and second contacts for receiving a first DC voltage from the photovoltaic module and third and fourth contacts configured for electrically parallel connection to a DC voltage bus for providing a second DC voltage, dependent on the first DC voltage, to the DC voltage bus. |
| US08432141B2 |
Input voltage control circuit using two differential amplifiers to regulate operating voltage
A voltage control system is configured with a constant voltage circuit, a semiconductor package and a power supply package. A power supply chip of the power supply package is configured to control the constant voltage circuit based on an input voltage supplied to the semiconductor package and an operating voltage of a semiconductor device so that the input voltage decreases as the voltage difference between the input voltage and the operating voltage increases. |
| US08432140B1 |
Dual mode boost regulator
An integrated circuit boost regulator design providing selection of either a low power on-chip power component boost regulator circuit or a high power off-chip power component boost regulator circuit using the same integrated circuit device. |
| US08432139B2 |
DC-DC converter
A DC-DC converter includes: a high-side MOSFET as a main switching element which is driven by using a bootstrap capacitor; a low-side MOSFET as a synchronous rectifier, wherein a series circuit of the high-side MOSFET and the low-side MOSFET is connected to a DC power supply; and a coil and a smoothing capacitor, which are serially connected between the drain and the source of the low-side MOSFET; an overvoltage protection unit, which clamps an overvoltage; an overcurrent interrupting unit, which interrupts an overcurrent that flows when the overvoltage protection unit clamps the overvoltage; and a protection circuit, wherein the protection circuit includes: a differential-voltage detecting unit detecting the voltage of both ends of the bootstrap capacitor; and a control unit that, when the voltage detected by the differential-voltage detecting unit exceeds a predetermined value, turns OFF the low-side MOSFET and turns ON the high-side MOSFET. |
| US08432138B2 |
Power factor correction converter and control method thereof
A power factor correction converter and a control method thereof are provided includes an interleaving control tube set, an interface to an alternating current power supply, a first inductor, a second inductor, a third inductor, a capacitor, a first bridge arm and a second bridge arm. Abridge arm includes a first switch tube and a second switch tube connected in series; The first bridge arm, the second bridge arm, and the capacitor are connected to each other in parallel; the alternating current power supply and the first inductor are connected in series, and the second inductor and the third inductor are connected in parallel, and then connected to the first inductor in series; the second inductor is connected to the first bridge arm, and the second inductor is connected to the second bridge arm; and the alternating current power supply and the first inductor are connected in series. |
| US08432137B2 |
Power generating system with flux regulated generator
A method for generating and controlling power by means of at least one controlled permanent magnet machine (PMM) with a permanent magnet (PM) rotor and a stator with a magnetic flux diverter circuit for controlling the output of the PMM, comprises the steps of: rotating the PM rotor at a velocity sufficient to develop a high frequency alternating current (HFAC) power output from the stator; transforming the HFAC output to produce a desired non-HFAC power output; sensing desired power output parameters; generating a control signal responsive to the sensed parameters; and applying the control signal to the magnetic flux diverter circuit to control the desired power output. |
| US08432135B2 |
Method of controlling lead-acid battery and power supply system
An object of this invention is to simultaneously resolve a decline in capacity due to undercharging of, and degradation due to overcharging of, a lead-acid battery, which occur as a result of random charging. A method of controlling a lead-acid battery of this invention is characterized in that a first region extending until an accumulated discharged capacity D1 at which a theoretical discharged capacity is the maximum value Dmax is reached, and a subsequent second region in which the accumulated discharged capacity D1 is exceeded, are set, and in that a value R1 obtained by dividing an accumulated charged capacity C1 by the accumulated discharged capacity D1 in the first region is made to be larger than a value R2 obtained by dividing an accumulated charged capacity C2 by an accumulated discharged capacity D2 in the second region. |
| US08432133B2 |
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. |
| US08432131B2 |
Network-controlled charging system for electric vehicles
A network-controlled charge transfer device for electric vehicles includes a control device to turn electric supply on and off to enable and disable charge transfer for electric vehicles, a transceiver to communicate requests for charge transfer with a remote server and receive communications from the remote server, and a controller, coupled with the control device and the transceiver, to cause the control device to turn the electric supply on based on communication from the remote server. |
| US08432129B2 |
Wireless charging system and method
A wireless charging system can optimize charging efficiency regardless of a location of a mobile terminal. The wireless charging system wirelessly charges a mobile terminal using electromagnetic induction between a first coil included in a charging pad and a second coil included in the mobile terminal. The charging pad can detect a location of the mobile terminal on the charging pad. The charging pad can move the first coil to correspond to the detected location of the mobile terminal; and supply power to the first coil and charging a battery. |
| US08432128B2 |
Proximity power pad
A polygonal power pad includes an optional connector to connect to a power supply and a power network in the power pad. At least one power connector is coupled to the power network and is disposed on a periphery of the pad. The power connector is operable to receive and provide power to a provided adjacent pad. At least one power transfer coil embedded in the pad, is coupled to the power network to transfer power to a device proximate the pad. |
| US08432119B2 |
Method and apparatus for characterizing and enhancing the functional performance of machine tools
Disclosed are various systems and methods for assessing and improving the capability of a machine tool. The disclosure applies to machine tools having at least one slide configured to move along a motion axis. Various patterns of dynamic excitation commands are employed to drive the one or more slides, typically involving repetitive short distance displacements. A quantification of a measurable merit of machine tool response to the one or more patterns of dynamic excitation commands is typically derived for the machine tool. Examples of measurable merits of machine tool performance include workpiece surface finish, and the ability to generate chips of the desired length. |
| US08432113B2 |
Brushless fan motor control circuit assembly
A brushless fan motor control circuit assembly consists of a high-frequency filter circuit, a rectifier circuit, a power factor enhancing circuit, a current-limit and voltage regulation circuit and a brushless fan motor driving circuit. By means of the high-frequency filter circuit to suppress high frequency noises, the power factor enhancing circuit to enhance the power factor and to save power consumption, the current-limit and voltage regulation circuit to limit the current and to achieve overload protection, the brushless fan motor control circuit assembly controls the operation of a motor of an electric accurately and safely, avoiding fan vibration. |
| US08432111B2 |
Pulse amplitude modulation method for the DC brushless motor
A method of the Pulse Amplitude Modulation for the Sensorless Brushless motor, which includes a start-up circuit, a phase detect circuit, a phase commutation circuit, a driving circuit, BEMF detection circuit, and frequency detector, utilizes the control signal of the phase commutation circuit to control the driving circuit so as to drive the outer motor coil and detect the control signal for the driving motor driving circuit by a detection circuit. The motor system can be controlled to reduce the discharge speed to avoid the motor driving circuit shutdown and further speed up the start-up time for the next charging period of the motor driving circuit to achieve the effect of low speed rotation and power saving. |
| US08432109B2 |
Method and apparatus for a LED driver with high power factor
A control circuit of a LED driver according to the present invention comprises an output circuit, an input circuit and an input-voltage detection circuit. The output circuit generates a switching signal to produce an output current for driving at least one LED in response to a feedback signal. The switching signal is coupled to switch a transformer. The input circuit samples an input signal for generating the feedback signal. The input signal is correlated to the output current of the LED driver. The input-voltage detection circuit generates an input-voltage signal in response to an input voltage of the LED driver. The input circuit will not sample the input signal when the input-voltage signal is lower than a threshold. The control circuit can eliminate the need of the input capacitor for improving the reliability of the LED driver. |
| US08432107B2 |
Backlight module, over-temperature protection circuit and over-temperature protection method thereof
An over-temperature protection circuit is adapted to a light source driver coupled to a light-emitting device. The light source driver has a current setting terminal receiving a set current to control the magnitude of a current flowing through the light-emitting device. The over-temperature protection circuit includes a first, second, and third resistors, a thermal resistor measuring temperature of the light-emitting device, and a diode. A first terminal of the first resistor provides the set current to the current setting terminal. The second resistor is coupled between the first resistor and a ground voltage in series. A first terminal of the thermal resistor is coupled to a reference voltage. The third resistor is coupled between the thermal resistor and the ground voltage in series. An anode and a cathode of the diode are respectively coupled to a second terminal of the thermal resistor and a second terminal of the first resistor. |
| US08432104B2 |
Load current balancing circuit
A load current balancing circuit that operates with a direct current (DC) power supply includes at least one transformer having a first inductive element adapted to couple in series with a first load and a second inductive element adapted to couple in series with a second load. The first load is parallel to the second load. The load balancing circuit further includes at least one switch adapted to operate at one or more switching frequencies associated with at least one driving signal. The switch is configured to periodically interrupt respective current flows through the first inductive element and second inductive element substantially simultaneously. |
| US08432103B2 |
LED drive circuit, LED illumination fixture, LED illumination device, and LED illumination system
An LED drive circuit in which an alternating voltage is input and an LED is driven, and which is capable of connecting to a phase control dimmer. The LED circuit is provided with a current extractor for extracting a current from a power supply feed line for feeding an LED drive current to the LED; and an extraction timing adjuster for operating the current extractor for a predetermined period of time after the start of a voltage fluctuation in the power supply feed line, the voltage fluctuation accompanying output oscillation of the phase control dimmer. |
| US08432102B2 |
Systems and methods for multi-state switch networks
Systems and methods for multi-state switch networks and multi-state LED networks are provided. Systems and methods for maintaining the brightness of LEDs in multi-state LED networks are also provided. The multi-state networks contain control circuitry that can output a single control signal that is able to drive a pair of diodes in three different states. In a network of 2*N diodes, N wires are sufficient to drive the diodes in 3^N different states. The control circuitry may also include a pulse-width modulator that controls the perceived brightness of the LEDs in a multi-state LED network in response to a voltage level of the power source. |
| US08432100B2 |
Organic light emitting display device and driving method for the same
An organic light emitting display device is provided. The device includes a photo sensor adapted to: sense a brightness of ambient light; output a pulse width of an emission control signal corresponding to a sensed brightness of the ambient light; and output a gamma compensation coefficient corresponding to the sensed brightness of the ambient light and a user selected brightness. The device also includes a gamma compensation circuit adapted to adjust a magnitude of a voltage between a plurality of gradation voltages according to the output gamma compensation coefficient. The device also includes a scan driver and a data driver. The device also includes a pixel portion including a pixel adapted to: emit light according to the data signal, the scan signal, and the emission control signal; and display an image corresponding to the user selected brightness. |
| US08432099B2 |
Systems and methods for controlling brightness of cold-cathode fluorescent lamps with wide dimming range and adjustable minimum brightness
System and method for adjusting brightness of one or more cold-cathode fluorescent lamps. The system includes a voltage selector configured to receive a dimming voltage and a first threshold voltage and generate an output voltage. The output voltage is selected from a group consisting of the dimming voltage and the first threshold voltage. Additionally, the system includes an oscillator coupled to a first capacitor and configured to generate a ramp signal with the first capacitor, and a signal generator configured to receive the ramp signal and the output voltage and generate a first signal. The first signal corresponds to a lamp brightness level. Moreover, the system includes a brightness detector configured to receive the first signal and output a second signal. The second signal indicates whether the lamp brightness level is higher than a threshold brightness level. |
| US08432098B2 |
Lighting device for a motor vehicle
The invention relates to a lighting device for a motor vehicle. Said lighting device comprises a gas discharge lamp (1; 96) for emitting light, a starting device for providing a starting voltage for starting the gas discharge lamp (1; 96) and a control device for providing an input voltage for the starting device and an operating voltage for operation of the gas discharge lamp (1; 96). The control device is an integral part of the starting device. In order to come to grips with the problems associated with space and temperature with such lighting devices, the invention proposes that the combined starting and control device (5; 80) has a plug element (6) for connecting a vehicle power supply system voltage (7), the plug element (6) being in the form of a printed circuit board plug, which is formed by conductor tracks (21; 23) guided at an edge of a printed circuit board (20) of the starting and control device (5; 80). |
| US08432097B2 |
Light emitting device, electronic appliance, and method for manufacturing light emitting device
To provide a light emitting device that has a structure in which a light emitting element is sandwiched by two substrates to prevent moisture from penetrating into the light emitting element, and a method for manufacturing thereof. In addition, a gap between the two substrates can be controlled precisely. In the light emitting device according to the present invention, an airtight space surrounded by a sealing material with a closed pattern is kept under reduced pressure by attaching the pair of substrates under reduced pressure. A columnar or wall-shaped structure is formed between light emitting regions inside of the sealing material, in a region overlapping with the sealing material, or in a region outside of the sealing material so that the gap between the pair of substrates can be maintained precisely. |
| US08432090B2 |
Stripping member, a stripping assembly and a method for extracting a particle beam from a cyclotron
The present invention relates to a stripping member for stripping electrons off a negatively charged particle beam at the periphery of a cyclotron for extracting a particle beam out of said cyclotron, said stripping member comprising a first stripper foil adapted for being located at the periphery of said cyclotron so that said particle beam passes through said first stripper foil, characterized in that it comprises a second stripper foil adapted for being located side-by-side with the first foil at the periphery of said cyclotron at a more peripheral radius than said first stripper foil so that said negatively charged particle beam passes through said second stripper foil when said first stripper foil is damaged. |
| US08432089B2 |
Light source module and backlight module
A light source module and a backlight module therewith are disclosed. The light source includes a circuit board and a light-emitting diode disposed on the circuit board. The light-emitting diode includes a package unit and a conductive support. The package unit includes an insulation housing, a heat-dissipating support embedded in the insulation housing, and a light-emitting diode chip disposed on the heat-dissipating support and encapsulated by the insulation housing. The light-emitting diode chip includes two electrodes, which are isolated form the heat-dissipating support. The insulation housing thereon defines a light-out surface. The conductive support is disposed on an exterior side surface of the insulation housing and connected to the heat-dissipating support to protrude out the light-out surface. Thereby, the protruding conductive support is also isolated from the two electrodes so as to perform ESD protection for avoiding unexpected damage to the light-emitting diode and extending service life thereof. |
| US08432088B2 |
Permanent conversion adapter for lighting fixtures
A permanent adapter for incandescent lighting fixtures can removably receive LEDs but cannot itself be removed from the fixture. |
| US08432085B2 |
Multi-layer piezoelectric element having low rigidity metal layers, and ejection apparatus and fuel ejection system that employ the same
A multi-layer piezoelectric element having high durability of which amount of displacement is suppressed from varying even when operated continuously over a long period of time with a higher electric field under a high pressure is provided.The multi-layer piezoelectric element which has a multi-layer structure, the multi-layer structure comprising a plurality of piezoelectric material layers and a plurality of metal layers that are stacked alternately, wherein the piezoelectric material layer is constituted from a plurality of piezoelectric crystal grains, the plurality of metal layers comprise internal electrodes and low-rigidity metal layer that has rigidity lower than those of the internal electrodes and the piezoelectric material layer, and wherein the low-rigidity metal layer has a plurality of metal parts that are separated from each other, and an end of the metal part infiltrates between the piezoelectric crystal grains. |
| US08432084B2 |
Converting mechanical vibrational energy into electrical energy
An electromechanical generator comprising an electromechanical device for converting mechanical vibrational energy into electrical energy, the electromechanical device being a velocity damped resonator having a damping coefficient and a resonant frequency, a power detector for detecting the output electrical power from the electromechanical device, a controller, and a damping coefficient adjuster for adjusting the damping coefficient of the electromechanical device, the controller being arranged to control the damping coefficient adjuster in response to the output electrical power detected by the power detector. |
| US08432077B2 |
Bearing holder and spindle motor having the same
A bearing holder and a spindle motor having the same are disclosed. The bearing holder in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention can include a body, which has an insertion hole formed therein such that a bearing is inserted into the insertion hole, a first supporting protrusion, which is protruded downward from a bottom surface of the body along a circumference of the insertion hole, and a first bent indentation, which is formed on an inner circumferential surface of the first supporting protrusion such that the first supporting protrusion is bent toward an inner side. Thus, unnecessary deformation in the bearing holder can be prevented while the bearing holder is coupled to a base plate. Moreover, since the bearing holder forms an accurate positional relationship with respect to the base plate, noise and vibration can be prevented from occurring during the operation of the motor. |
| US08432076B2 |
Systems and methods for providing fluid for internal cooling and lubrication of electric machines
The invention provides systems and methods for cooling and lubrication of high power density electric machines with an enhanced fluid injection system. Multiple fluid flow passages may be provided within the electric machine, which may include one or more bearing fluid flow pathways and one or more rotor fluid flow pathways. The bearing fluid flow pathway may comprise one or more passages which may direct a fluid to contact one or more bearings. The rotor fluid flow pathway may comprise one or more passages which may direct a fluid along the rotatable shaft toward the rotor and stator. A method for cooling and lubricating the electric machine may include directing a fluid to flow through a bearing fluid flow pathway for lubrication and cooling of one or more bearings, and then sequentially flow through a rotor fluid flow pathway for cooling of the rotor and stator. |
| US08432070B2 |
Passive receivers for wireless power transmission
Exemplary embodiments are directed to wireless power transfer. A wireless power transmission receiver includes a receive antenna including a parallel resonator configured to resonate in response to a magnetic near-field and couple wireless power therefrom. The receiver further includes a passive rectifier circuit coupled to the parallel resonator. The passive rectifier circuit is configured to transform a load impedance to the parallel resonator. |
| US08432063B2 |
Multi-channel power controller with switching offset
A method of operating a power controller includes assigning switching offset times to a plurality of channels of a multi-channel power controller, and adjusting a state change time of a selected channel by the switching offset time associated with the selected channel such that the selected channel and another of the plurality of channels multiple channels do not undergo the state change simultaneously. |
| US08432059B2 |
Dynamic electrical load management
In one embodiment, a method is used to provide dynamic electrical power management which may minimize the potential for overload conditions and may ensure that system performance limits are maintained. The method may dynamically limit the primary load system power draw in response to the net power draw of all other electrical power users on the aircraft which may ensure that the total power levels remain below critical limits. The method may also provide predictive controls to handle rapid load transients. Additionally, if vital functions are not being met, the method may shed other selected aircraft electrical loads which may ensure that adequate power is provided to the primary load system. |
| US08432055B2 |
Wind turbine having a high-voltage ride through (HVRT) mode
A wind turbine connected to a power grid is provided. The wind turbine is selectively activated to operate at a high-voltage ride through (HVRT) mode. The wind turbine includes a grid voltage circuit, a DC bus, a voltage source, and a dynamic brake. The grid voltage circuit monitors a fundamental voltage of the power grid and activates the HVRT mode if the fundamental voltage is at least about equal to a threshold voltage value. The DC bus has a DC bus voltage. The voltage source provides a DC bus rated voltage. The dynamic brake has a brake chopper and a resistive element. The dynamic brake is connected to the DC bus. The dynamic brake is connected to the voltage source if the HVRT mode is activated. |
| US08432053B2 |
Wind turbine solar control system
The present invention is a wind turbine solar control system. This system may be applied to various types of wind turbines that use a start-up motor or will be able to be turned efficiently using a sun powered motor. A rechargeable battery is used to hold enough power to start the propeller for a predetermined amount of time. Wind sensors will be included to determine if enough wind is present to turn the propeller on. A control box may be included to designate when to turn the motor on and off. It also controls how much to charge the battery and regulates when to stop charging. |
| US08432047B2 |
Device for conversion of thermodynamic energy into electrical energy
A device for conversion of thermodynamic energy into electrical energy includes a piston/cylinder unit (16), a generator (18), and a controller (14). The piston/cylinder unit (16) includes a pressure cylinder (24) and a piston (26) arranged in the pressure cylinder (24) and linearly movable by a change in volume of a working medium. The generator (18) includes a coil (22) and a magnet (20). The magnet (20) is coupled to the piston (26) such that a linear movement of the piston (26) effects a linear movement of the magnet (20) within the coil (22). The controller (14) controls the working stroke of the device as a function of at least one measured process parameter. |
| US08432046B2 |
Semiconductor device
There is provided a semiconductor device with which stress can be prevented from locally concentrating on an external connecting terminal on a post and thus damages of the external connecting terminal can be prevented. The semiconductor device includes a semiconductor chip, a sealing resin layer stacked on a surface of the semiconductor chip, and the post which penetrates the sealing resin layer in a stacking direction of the semiconductor chip and the sealing resin layer, protrudes from the sealing resin layer, and has a periphery of the protruding portion opposedly in contact with a surface of the sealing resin layer in the stacking direction. |
| US08432045B2 |
Conductive pads defined by embedded traces
An assembly and method of making same are provided. The assembly can include a first component including a dielectric region having an exposed surface, a conductive pad at the surface defined by a conductive element having at least a portion extending in an oscillating or spiral path along the surface, and a an electrically conductive bonding material joined to the conductive pad and bridging an exposed portion of the dielectric surface between adjacent segments. The conductive pad can permit electrical interconnection of the first component with a second component having a terminal joined to the pad through the electrically conductive bonding material. The path of the conductive element may or may not overlap or cross itself. |
| US08432037B2 |
Semiconductor device with a line and method of fabrication thereof
A semiconductor device includes an interlayer insulation film, an underlying line provided in the interlayer insulation film, a liner film overlying the interlayer insulation film, an interlayer insulation film overlying the liner film. The underlying line has a lower hole and the liner film and the interlayer insulation film have an upper hole communicating with the lower hole, and the lower hole is larger in diameter than the upper hole. The semiconductor device further includes a conductive film provided at an internal wall surface of the lower hole, a barrier metal provided along an internal wall surface of the upper hole, and a Cu film filling the upper and lower holes. The conductive film contains a substance identical to a substance of the barrier metal. A highly reliable semiconductor device can thus be obtained. |
| US08432035B2 |
Metal cap layer with enhanced etch resistivity for copper-based metal regions in semiconductor devices
During the fabrication of sophisticated metallization systems of semiconductor devices, material deterioration of conductive cap layers may be significantly reduced by providing a noble metal on exposed surface areas after the patterning of the corresponding via openings. In one embodiment, a semiconductor device is provided that includes a metallization system formed above a substrate. The metallization system includes a metal line formed in a dielectric layer and having a top surface. The metallization system also includes a conductive cap layer formed on the top surface. A via extends through the conductive cap layer and connects to the top surface of the metal line. A conductive barrier layer is formed on sidewalls of the via. An interface layer is formed of a noble metal between the conductive cap layer and the conductive barrier layer and between the top surface of the metal line and the conductive barrier layer. |
| US08432034B2 |
Use of a local constraint to enhance attachment of an IC device to a mounting platform
An embodiment is directed to an IC mounting assembly that comprises an IC device having a first planar surface, wherein multiple electrically conductive first terminals are located at the first surface. The assembly further comprises an IC device mounting platform having a second planar surface in closely spaced relationship with the first surface, wherein multiple electrically conductive second terminals are located at the second surface, each second terminal corresponding to one of the first terminals. A solder element extends between each first terminal and its corresponding second terminal, and a constraining element is fixably joined to the second surface, wherein the constraining element has a CTE which is selectively less than the CTE of the mounting platform at the second surface. The constraining element is provided with a number of holes or apertures, and each hole is traversed by a solder element that extends between a first terminal and its corresponding second terminal. |
| US08432031B1 |
Semiconductor die including a current routing line having non-metallic slots
A semiconductor die that includes a plurality of non-metallic slots that extend through a current routing line is disclosed. The semiconductor die comprises a semiconductor circuit that includes a plurality of semiconductor components and a current trace line that is coupled to a first semiconductor component. Further, the semiconductor die comprises a current routing line that is coupled with the current trace line. The current routing line includes a plurality of non-metallic slots that extend through the current routing line. |
| US08432030B2 |
Power electronic package having two substrates with multiple semiconductor chips and electronic components
A power electronic package includes: first and second high thermal conductivity insulating non-planar substrates; and multiple semiconductor chips and electronic components between the substrates. Each substrate includes multiple electrical insulator layers and patterned electrical conductor layers connecting to the electronic components, and further includes multiple raised regions or posts, which are bonded together so that the substrates are mechanically and electrically connected. The number, arrangement, and shape of the raised regions or posts are adjusted to have mechanical separation between the substrates. The electrical conductor layers are separated and isolated one another so that multiple electric circuits are provided on at least one of the substrates. |
| US08432028B2 |
Integrated circuit packaging system with package-on-package and method of manufacture thereof
A method of manufacture of an integrated circuit packaging system includes: providing a base substrate having a base substrate top side; mounting a base integrated circuit over the base substrate top side, the base integrated circuit having an active side opposite an inactive side with the inactive side facing the base substrate top side; attaching a peripheral interconnect to the base substrate top side and a device peripheral pad of the base integrated circuit at the active side; mounting an interposer over the base integrated circuit and the peripheral interconnect, the interposer having an interposer top side and a window; and attaching a central interconnect to the interposer top side and a device central pad of the base integrated circuit at the active side, the central interconnect through the window. |
| US08432025B2 |
Semiconductor device and plurality of dams
The invention provides a semiconductor device including a rectangular chip provided on a mounting region of a substrate, a liquid resin layer provided under the rectangular chip and on a side surface of the chip, and a plurality of dams formed on the substrate so as to extend along the side surface of the rectangular chip. The configuration allows the semiconductor device to be provided with the substrate having a reduced size which is achieved by preventing a liquid resin from flowing out. |
| US08432021B2 |
Manufacturing method of SOI substrate
An object is to provide a manufacturing method of an SOI substrate in which a plurality of single crystal semiconductor layers uniform in quality is bonded to a substrate having a larger area than a single crystal silicon substrate. At the time of a heat treatment, uniform heat distribution in single crystal semiconductor substrates is realized by using a tray which has depression portions each with a large depth and is not in contact with the single crystal semiconductor substrate bonded to a base substrate as a tray for supporting the base substrate and holding the single crystal semiconductor substrates. Further, by providing a supporting portion for the base substrate between the depression portions of the tray, a contact area between the tray and the base substrate is reduced. |
| US08432018B2 |
Semiconductor device and manufacturing method of semiconductor device
The present invention provides a thin and bendable semiconductor device utilizing an advantage of a flexible substrate used in the semiconductor device, and a method of manufacturing the semiconductor device. The semiconductor device has at least one surface covered by an insulating layer which serves as a substrate for protection. In the semiconductor device, the insulating layer is formed over a conductive layer serving as an antenna such that the value in the thickness ratio of the insulating layer in a portion not covering the conductive layer to the conductive layer is at least 1.2, and the value in the thickness ratio of the insulating layer formed over the conductive layer to the conductive layer is at least 0.2. Further, not the conductive layer but the insulating layer is exposed in the side face of the semiconductor device, and the insulating layer covers a TFT and the conductive layer. |
| US08432017B2 |
Method for fabricating a three-dimensional inductor carrier with metal core and structure thereof
A method for fabricating a inductor carrier comprises the steps of providing a substrate with a protective layer; forming a first photoresist layer on protective layer; patterning the first photoresist layer to form a first opening and first apertures; forming a first metal layer within first opening and first apertures; removing the first photoresist layer; forming a first dielectric layer on protective layer; forming a second photoresist layer on first dielectric layer; patterning the second photoresist layer to form a second aperture and a plurality of third apertures; forming a second metal layer within second aperture and third apertures; removing the second photoresist layer; forming a second dielectric layer on first dielectric layer; forming a third photoresist layer on second dielectric layer; patterning the third photoresist layer to form a fifth aperture and sixth apertures; forming a third metal layer within fifth aperture and sixth apertures. |
| US08432016B1 |
Stacked body-contacted field effect transistor
The present disclosure relates to a stacked body-contacted field effect transistor (FET) that includes multiple body-contacted FETs coupled in series and a lateral isolation band encircling a periphery of the multiple FETs. The multiple FETs include a first end FET having a first body, which is not directly connected to any body of any other of the multiple FETs, and a second end FET having a second body, which is not directly connected to any body of any other of the multiple FETs. The multiple FETs may include inner FETs that incorporate merged source-drains to save space. By keeping the bodies electrically separated from one another, the full benefits of body-contacting may be realized. However, by incorporating multiple FETs within a single lateral isolation band further saves space. |
| US08432013B2 |
Semiconductor device and a method of manufacturing the same
A semiconductor device is provided with a peripheral region that has a narrow width and exhibits good electric field relaxation and high robustness against induced charges. The device has an active region for main current flow and a peripheral region surrounding the active region on a principal surface of a semiconductor substrate of a first conductivity type. The peripheral region has a guard ring of a second conductivity type composed of straight sections and curved sections connecting the straight sections formed in a region of the principal surface surrounding the active region, and a pair of polysilicon field plates in a ring shape formed separately on inner and outer circumferential sides of the guard ring. The surface of the guard ring and the pair of polysilicon field plates of the inner circumferential side and the outer circumferential side are electrically connected with a metal film in the curved section. |
| US08432012B2 |
Semiconductor devices including schottky diodes having overlapping doped regions and methods of fabricating same
A semiconductor device includes a semiconductor layer having a first conductivity type and having a surface in which an active region of the semiconductor device is defined, and a plurality of spaced apart doped regions within the active region. The plurality of doped regions have a second conductivity type that is opposite the first conductivity type and define a plurality of exposed portions of the semiconductor layer within the active region. The plurality of doped regions include a plurality of rows extending in a longitudinal direction. Each of the rows includes a plurality of longitudinally extending segments, and the longitudinally extending segments in a first row at least partially overlap the longitudinally extending segments in an adjacent row in a lateral direction that is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. |
| US08432009B2 |
Method and system for providing magnetic layers having insertion layers for use in spin transfer torque memories
A method and system for providing a magnetic junction usable in a magnetic device are described. The magnetic junction includes a pinned layer, a nonmagnetic spacer layer, and a free layer. The nonmagnetic spacer layer is between the pinned layer and the free layer. The magnetic junction is configured such that the free layer is switchable between a plurality of stable magnetic states when a write current is passed through the magnetic junction. At least one of the pinned layer and the free layer includes a magnetic substructure. The magnetic substructure includes at least two magnetic layers interleaved with at least one insertion layer. Each insertion layer includes at least one of Cr, Ta, Ti, W, Ru, V, Cu, Mg, aluminum oxide, and MgO. The magnetic layers are exchange coupled. |
| US08432000B2 |
Trench MOS barrier schottky rectifier with a planar surface using CMP techniques
High Efficiency Diode (HED) rectifiers with improved performance including reduced reverse leakage current, reliable solderability properties, and higher manufacturing yields are fabricated by minimizing topography variation at various stages of fabrication. Variations in the topography are minimized by using a CMP process to planarize the HED rectifier after the field oxide, polysilicon and/or solderable top metal are formed. |
| US08431995B2 |
Methodology for fabricating isotropically recessed drain regions of CMOS transistors
A method for fabricating recessed drain regions of aggressively scaled CMOS devices. In this method a processing sequence of plasma etch, deposition, followed by plasma etch is used to controllably form recessed regions of the drain in the channel of a thin body, much less than 40 nm, device to enable subsequent epitaxial growth of SiGe, SiC, or other materials, and a consequent increase in the device and ring oscillator performance. A Field Effect Transistor device is also provided, which includes: a buried oxide layer; a silicon layer above the buried oxide layer; an isotropically recessed drain region; and a gate stack which includes a gate dielectric, a conductive material, and a spacer. |
| US08431974B2 |
Silicon carbide semiconductor device
According to the embodiment, a semiconductor device includes an SiC substrate of a first or second conductivity type. An SiC layer of the first conductivity type is formed on a front surface of the substrate, a first SiC region of the second conductivity type is formed on the SiC layer, a second SiC region of the first conductivity type is formed within a surface of the first SiC region, a gate dielectric is continuously formed on the SiC layer, the second SiC region, and the surface of the first SiC region interposed between the SiC layer and the second SiC region, a gate electrode is formed on the gate dielectric, a first electrode is embedded in a trench selectively formed in a part where the first SiC region adjoins the second SiC region, and a second electrode is formed on a back surface of the substrate. |
| US08431972B2 |
Semiconductor ESD device and method of making same
An ESD protection device includes a semiconductor body, a gate formed over a channel in the semiconductor body, the channel being doped with a first concentration of dopants of a first conductivity type. A first source/drain region is formed on the surface of the semiconductor body adjacent to a first edge of the gate, wherein the first source/drain region is doped with a dopant of a second conductivity type opposite the first conductivity type, and at least a portion of the first source/drain region is doped with a dopant of the first conductivity type. The concentration of the second conductivity type dopant exceeds the concentration of the first conductivity type dopant, and the concentration of the first conductivity type dopant in the first source/drain exceeds the first concentration. A second source/drain region is also formed at the upper surface of the semiconductor body adjacent to a second edge of the gate, wherein the second source/drain region is doped with a dopant of the second conductivity type. |
| US08431971B2 |
Pitch multiplied mask patterns for isolated features
Crisscrossing spacers formed by pitch multiplication are used to form isolated features, such as contacts vias. A first plurality of mandrels are formed on a first level and a first plurality of spacers are formed around each of the mandrels. A second plurality of mandrels is formed on a second level above the first level. The second plurality of mandrels is formed so that they cross the first plurality of mandrels, when viewed in a top down view. A second plurality of spacers is formed around each of the second plurality of mandrels. The first and the second mandrels are selectively removed to leave a pattern of voids defined by the crisscrossing first and second pluralities of spacers. These spacers can be used as a mask to transfer the pattern of voids to a substrate. The voids can be filled with conductive material to form conductive contacts. |
| US08431970B2 |
Integrated circuits with edge-adjacent devices having reactance values
An integrated circuit has a plurality of terminals for making electrical connection to the integrated circuit. At least one device is formed adjacent an outer edge of the integrated circuit. The device includes at least one metal conductor for forming an edge seal for protecting the integrated circuit during die singulation. The device is coupled to one or more functional circuits within the integrated circuit by routing the at least one metal conductor to the one or more functional circuits, the at least one device providing a reactance value to the one or more functional circuits for non-test operational use. The device may be formed as one or more capacitors or as one or more inductors. Various structures may be used for the capacitor and the inductor. |
| US08431968B2 |
Electromigration resistant standard cell device
A standard cell semiconductor integrated circuit device design provides a standard cell semiconductor device that includes first standard cells and user-defined target standard cells which consume more power or include other operational characteristics that differ from the operational characteristics of the first standard cells. The standard cells are routed to ground and power wires using one power rail and the target cells are routed to the ground and power lines using the first power rail and a second power rail to alleviate electromigration in either of the power rails. The two power rails include an upper power rail and a lower power rail. An intermediate conductive layer may be disposed between the upper and lower power rails to provide for signal routing by lateral interconnection between cells. |
| US08431966B2 |
Method of manufacturing a bipolar transistor semiconductor device and semiconductor devices obtained thereby
Methods for manufacturing a bipolar transistor semiconductor device are described, along with devices fabricated in accordance with the methods. The methods include the steps of forming a stack of layers over a semiconductor body comprising a window definition layer (18,38), a layer (20) of semiconductor material, a first insulating layer (22), and a second insulating layer (24) which is selectively etchable with respect to the first insulating layer. A trench (26) is then etched into the stack down to the window definition layer. The portion of the trench extending through the second insulating layer is widened to form a wider trench portion (28) therethrough. A window (36) is defined in the window definition layer which is aligned with the wider trench portion, and serves to define the base-collector or base-emitter junction in the finished device. |
| US08431962B2 |
Composite passivation process for nitride FET
A nitride-based FET device that provides reduced electron trapping and gate current leakage. The device includes a relatively thick passivation layer to reduce traps caused by device processing and a thin passivation layer below the gate terminal to reduce gate current leakage. The device includes semiconductor device layers deposited on a substrate. A plurality of passivation layers are deposited on the semiconductor device layers, where at least two of the layers are made of a different dielectric material to provide an etch stop. One or more of the passivation layers can be removed using the interfaces between the layers as an etch stop so that the distance between the gate terminal and the semiconductor device layers can be tightly controlled, where the distance can be made very thin to increase device performance and reduce gate current leakage. |
| US08431956B2 |
Light emitting chip having buffer layer with nitride semiconductor in carbon nano tube structure
A light emitting chip includes a substrate, a buffer layer, a cap layer and a light emitting structure. The buffer layer is formed on the substrate and includes a carbon nano tube structure substantially parallel to the substrate. The carbon nano tube structure is comprised of nitride semiconductor. The cap layer grows from the buffer layer. The light emitting structure is formed on the cap layer. The light emitting structure sequentially includes a first cladding layer connected to the cap layer, a light emitting layer, and a second cladding layer. |
| US08431955B2 |
Method and structure for balancing power and performance using fluorine and nitrogen doped substrates
Methods and systems evaluate an integrated circuit design for power consumption balance and performance balance, using a computerized device. Based on this process of evaluating the integrated circuit, the methods and systems can identify first sets of integrated circuit transistor structures within the integrated circuit design that need reduced power leakage and second sets of integrated circuit transistor structures that need higher performance to achieve the desired power consumption balance and performance balance. With this, the methods and systems alter the integrated circuit design to include implantation of a first dopant into a substrate before a gate insulator formation for the first sets of integrated circuit transistor structures; and alter the integrated circuit design to include implantation of a second dopant into the substrate before a gate insulator formation for the second sets of integrated circuit transistor structures. The method and system then output the altered integrated circuit design from the computerized device and/or manufactures the device according to the altered integrated circuit design. |
| US08431948B2 |
Light emitting diode package and fabrication method thereof
A light emitting diode package and a fabrication method thereof are provided. The light emitting diode package comprises a lead frame, having a frame body and a conductive layer covering the frame body. A reflector has a first portion and a second portion sandwiching the lead frame, wherein the first portion has a depression to expose the lead frame, and a light emitting diode chip is disposed on the lead frame in the depression. The fabrication method comprises forming a frame body and forming a conductive layer covering the frame body to form a lead frame. A first portion and a second portion of a reflector are formed to sandwich the lead frame, wherein the first portion has a depression to expose the lead frame. A light emitting diode chip is disposed on the lead frame in the depression. |
| US08431946B2 |
Chip package and method for forming the same
An embodiment of the invention provides a chip package which includes: a substrate having a first surface and a second surface; an optical device disposed on the first surface; a conducting pad disposed on the first surface; a first alignment mark formed on the first surface; and a light shielding layer disposed on the second surface and having a second alignment mark, wherein the second alignment mark corresponds to the first alignment mark. |
| US08431945B2 |
Light emitting device, light emitting device package, and lighting system
Disclosed are a light emitting device, a light emitting device package, and a lighting system. The light emitting device includes a light emitting structure including a first conductive semiconductor layer, an active layer, and a second conductive semiconductor layer on, a light transmissive substrate having a refractive index lower than a refractive index of a compound semiconductor layer, and a mirror structure layer having a structure in which a first mirror layer having a first refractive index and a second mirror layer having a second refractive index different from the first refractive index are alternately stacked on each other. The first mirror layer has a thickness of W·λ/(4·n1·m), and the second mirror layer has a thickness of W·λ/(4·n2·m) in which the W represents a weight constant in a range of about 1.05 to about 1.25. |
| US08431941B2 |
Active matrix substrate, electrophoretic display apparatus, and electronic device
An active matrix substrate includes a substrate; a plurality of data lines provided on the substrate; a plurality of scanning lines provided to cross the data lines on the substrate when seen in a plan view; a thin film transistor that is electrically connected to one of the plurality of data lines and one of the plurality of scanning lines and has an organic semiconductor layer; a pixel electrode electrically connected to the thin film transistor; and a capacitive element electrically connected in parallel with the thin film transistor between the data line and the pixel electrode. |
| US08431935B2 |
Semiconductor substrate with cobalt silicide buffer layer and its manufacturing method
A semiconductor substrate includes: a substrate having a single crystal silicon on at least one surface thereof; a buffer layer that is provided on the single crystal silicon and has at least one cobalt silicide layer primarily containing cobalt silicide; and a silicon carbide single crystal film provided on the buffer layer. |
| US08431929B2 |
Semiconductor structures
A semiconductor structure is provided. The semiconductor structure includes a substrate, a gate disposed thereon, an insulation layer disposed on the substrate and overlying the gate, a patterned semiconductor layer disposed on the insulation layer, a source and a drain disposed on the patterned semiconductor layer, a protective layer overlying the insulation layer, the source and the boundary of the drain to expose a portion of the drain, and a pixel electrode disposed on the substrate, overlying the protective layer overlying the boundary of the drain, electrically connected to the exposed drain. |
| US08431926B2 |
Semiconductor device having oxide semiconductor layer
It is an object to manufacture a highly reliable semiconductor device including a thin film transistor whose electric characteristics are stable. An insulating layer which covers an oxide semiconductor layer of the thin film transistor contains a boron element or an aluminum element. The insulating layer containing a boron element or an aluminum element is formed by a sputtering method using a silicon target or a silicon oxide target containing a boron element or an aluminum element. Alternatively, an insulating layer containing an antimony (Sb) element or a phosphorus (P) element instead of a boron element covers the oxide semiconductor layer of the thin film transistor. |
| US08431924B2 |
Control of tunneling junction in a hetero tunnel field effect transistor
A method to fabricate a hetero-junction in a Tunnel Field Effect Transistor device configuration (e.g. in a segmented nanowire TFET) is provided. A thin transition layer is inserted in between the source region and channel region such that the out-diffusion is within a very limited region of a few nm, guaranteeing extremely good doping abruptness thanks to the lower diffusion of the dopants in the transition layer. The transition layer avoids the direct contact between the highly doped source region and the lowly doped or undoped channel and allows to contain the whole doping entirely within the source region and transition layer. The thickness of the transition layer can be engineered such that the transition layer coincides with the steep transition step from the highly doped source region to the intrinsic region (channel), and hence maximizing the tunneling current. |
| US08431923B2 |
Semiconductor structure and semiconductor device including a diode structure and methods of forming same
Methods of forming diode structures for use in memory cells and memory arrays, such as resistive random access memory (RRAM). The methods include forming a first electrode by chemisorbing a graphite material (e.g., graphene) on a conductive material. A low-k dielectric material may be formed over surfaces of the first electrode exposed through an opening in a dielectric material overlying the first electrode, followed by formation of a high-k dielectric material over the low-k dielectric material. A remaining portion of the opening may be filled with another conductive material to form a second electrode. The first and second electrodes of the resulting diode structure have different work functions and, thus, provide a low thermal budget, a low contact resistance, a high forward-bias current and a low reverse-bias current. A memory cell and a memory array including such a diode structure are also disclosed. |
| US08431920B2 |
Information recording and reproducing device for high-recording density
According to one embodiment, an information recording and reproducing device includes a recording layer which includes a typical element and a transition element, and stores a state of a first electric resistivity and a state of a second electric resistivity different from the first electric resistivity by a movement of the typical element, and an electrode layer which is disposed at one end of the recording layer to apply a voltage or a current to the recording layer. The recording layer includes a first region which is in contact with the electrode layer and the electrode layer includes a second region which is in contact with the recording layer. The first and second regions are opposite to each other. And the first and second regions include the typical element, and a concentration of the typical element in the second region is higher than that in the first region. |
| US08431919B2 |
Resistive change non-volatile semiconductor memory device
According to one embodiment, a non-volatile semiconductor memory device includes: a semiconductor substrate; a plurality of first lines; a plurality of second lines; and a plurality of non-volatile memory cells arranged at positions where the plurality of first lines intersect with the plurality of second lines, wherein each of the plurality of non-volatile memory cells includes a resistance change element and a rectifying element connected in series to the resistance change element, and a resistance change film continuously extending over the plurality of second lines is arranged between the plurality of first lines and the plurality of second lines, and the resistance change element includes a portion where the first line intersect with the second line in the resistance change film. |
| US08431918B2 |
Electronic device for a reconfigurable logic circuit
The invention relates to an electronic device, comprising a field effect transistor and a resistive switch electrically coupled with each other, wherein the resistive switch is configured to be switched between a state of low resistance and a state of high resistance. |
| US08431917B2 |
System and method for rotary machine online monitoring
In one embodiment, a system includes an optical monitoring system configured to optically communicate with an interior of a rotary machine. The optical monitoring system is configured to redirect a field of view toward different regions of a component within the interior of the rotary machine while the rotary machine is in operation, and to capture an image of each region. |
| US08431916B2 |
Radiation source and lithographic apparatus
A source configured to generate EUV radiation includes a fuel droplet generator configured to deliver a droplet of fuel to an interaction point, optics configured to deliver fuel vaporizing and exciting radiation to the interaction point to generate a plasma, and a collector arranged to collect EUV radiation emitted by the plasma. The optics are arranged such that in use the fuel vaporizing and exciting radiation is incident upon more than one side of the fuel droplet at the interaction point. |
| US08431913B2 |
Charged particle beam processing method
In a method for processing a surface of an object by radiating a plurality of charged particle beams to the surface of the object while moving the charged particle beams relative to the surface of the object, steps includes radiating a first charged particle beam and a second charged particle beam simultaneously to the surface of an object, and controlling a relative speed of the movement of the first charged particle beam to the surface of the object to correct the shape of the surface of the object with the first charged particle beam. In addition, the second charged particle beam is controlled according to a variation in the relative speed of the movement of the first charged particle beam so as to make a number of particles of the second charged particle beam that reach a unit area of the surface of the object constant, thereby smoothing the surface of the object. |
| US08431912B2 |
Simultaneous measurement of beams in lithography system
The present invention relates to a lithography system in which intensities of individually modulated beams from a multitude of beams are determined, comprising a measuring device with a sensor having a sensor area adapted for simultaneously sensing a plurality of beams and providing an aggregated signal thereof. The beams are individually modulated according to associated temporal blanking patterns. The present invention further relates to a method for calculating individual beam intensities dependent on the measured aggregated signal and the temporal blanking patterns of the beams. |
| US08431908B2 |
Charged particle beam writing apparatus and charged particle beam writing method
A charged particle beam writing apparatus includes a plurality of tracking calculation units to calculate a deflection amount of the charged particle beam in regard to a movable substrate, a switching unit for each of a plurality of virtual small regions of the substrate, to input an end signal indicating completion of charged particle beam emission to a respective small region, and to switch from output of one of the tracking calculation units to output of another of the tracking calculation units, and a deflector, while a substrate is moving, to deflect the charged particle beam to an n-th small region, based on an output from one of the tracking calculation units before switching and to deflect the charged particle beam to an (n+1)th small region based on an output from another of tracking calculation units after switching the plurality of tracking calculation units. |
| US08431907B2 |
Particle beam treatment device and irradiation dose setting method of the particle beam treatment device
A particle beam treatment device includes an irradiation nozzle which moves a particle beam in a direction which is perpendicular to an advancing direction; a dose monitor which measures the dose of the particle beam; a planning part which sets the irradiation dose applied to a target volume; and a controlling part which controls the irradiation dose applied to a target volume based on irradiation dose set value which is set by a value measured by the dose monitor and the planning part, wherein the planning part stores the absorbed dose distribution data in the depth direction which is prepared in advance using the absorbed dose at the reference depth which is a predetermined position nearer to an incident side of the particle beam than the position of Bragg peak as the reference and calculates the irradiation dose set value using the absorbed dose at the reference depth. |
| US08431906B2 |
Fast neutron detector having an open-structured hydrogenous radiator
A detector for fast neutrons has been developed which includes 1) selected open structure of solid hydrogen-containing material which converts impinging neutrons into recoil protons; 2) a surrounding gas which interacts with the protons to release electrons; 3) an electric field able to drift the electrons through and away from the open-structure material; and 4) an electron detector which monitors the drifted electrons thereby sensing the original impinging neutrons. This type of detector is advantageous for many applications, including efficient fast neutron detection; large area imaging of fast neutrons for fast neutron radiography; or fast neutron beam profiling. |
| US08431904B2 |
Data-processing electronics for use in a positron-emission tomography system
Improved processing electronic hardware are disclosed that facilitate the efficient processing of PET system data, while enhancing accuracy and compatibility of PET systems with other analytical methods (e.g., magnetic resonance imaging). Improvements include the use of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) for summing, by row, column, and diagonal, the output signals from an array of photodetectors in the PET system. |
| US08431902B2 |
Radiographic imaging device
The present invention provides a radiographic imaging device that may image radiographic images with high sharpness while suppressing a drop in sensitivity. Namely, a radiation detector, in which a scintillator that generates light due to irradiation of radiation and a TFT substrate on which plural sensor portions configured including an organic photoelectric conversion material that generates electric charges by receiving light are disposed are sequentially layered, is positioned in such a way that radiation that has passed through a subject is made incident from the TFT substrate side. |
| US08431900B2 |
Infrared solid-state imaging device
A thermal infrared solid-state imaging device includes a horizontal scanning circuit for scanning a pixel area horizontally to read an infrared image, and vertical scanning circuits provided at both ends of the pixel area. The vertical scanning circuits drive a drive line by applying a driving voltage at both ends of the drive line (in two-end driving). Further a bias voltage is applied at the end of the pixel area to a bias line connected to differential integrating circuits. |
| US08431897B2 |
Transmission electron microscope
A scanning transmission electron microscope using optical fibers as optical guiding media. The microscope obtains a high-angle scattering image or a dark-field image from electrons transmitted through a specimen. A scintillator converts electrons transmitted through the specimen into optical signals. The optical fibers couple outputs from the scintillator to the photodetector segments. The connections of the fibers with the photodetector segments are formed into arbitrary shapes. |
| US08431894B2 |
Electron beam device
An electron beam device has an electron gun for generating an electron beam, an objective lens for focusing the electron beam on an object and at least one detector for detecting electrons emitted by the object or electrons backscattered by the object. Detection of electrons emitted by or backscattered by an object may be simplified and improved using quadrupole devices and certain configurations of these devices provided in the electron beam device. |
| US08431890B1 |
Mass spectrometer with MALDI laser system
The invention relates to a mass spectrometer comprising a laser system for mass-spectrometric analysis with ionization of analyte molecules in a sample by matrix-assisted laser desorption. A mass spectrometer with a pulsed UV laser system produces a spatially distributed spot pattern with peaks of uniform energy density on the sample, increasing thereby the degree of ionization for analyte ions as compared to conventional spot patterns. The spot pattern with peaks of uniform energy density can be produced by homogeneous illumination of a pattern generator, for example a lens array. The homogeneous illumination can be generated by a low-cost beam-shaping element, which does not act on the UV beam but on the original infrared beam, in conjunction with changes to the beam cross-section and beam profile brought about by the nonlinear conversion crystals. This beam shaping not only produces a beam profile which illuminates the pattern generator homogeneously with low losses, but at the same time increases the efficiency of the frequency multiplication and the lifetime of the conversion crystals so that cost savings are achieved because less laser energy is required and the lifetime is increased. |
| US08431871B2 |
Transparent window pane provided with a resistive heating coating
A transparent glazing unit including a resistive heating coating that extends over a substantial part of the glazing unit, in particular over a main viewing field, and is electrically connected to at least two busbars such that, when an electrical supply voltage is applied between the busbars, a current flows, which heats a heating field in the coating. The heating field includes at least one semiresistive region in direct contact with at least one busbar. |
| US08431870B2 |
Wiper blade with heating elements and method for controlling the wiper blade
Disclosed is a method for controlling a wiper blade with heating elements embedded therein and coupled to a wiper arm of a vehicle to wipe a glass surface while moving together with the wiper arm. The method includes: detecting the operation or not of an engine of a vehicle; detecting the external temperature outside of the vehicle; and automatically supplying power to the heating elements based on the detected information on the operation of the engine and the temperature information. A wiper blade with heating elements capable of optimally maintaining a condition of the wiper blade even when the external temperature is low is also provided. |
| US08431869B2 |
Defrosting, defogging and de-icing structures
Defrosting, defogging, and de-icing structures are disclosed herein. An example of the structure includes at least one optically transparent member, at least one electrical strip extending along the at least one surface of the at least one optically transparent member; and an optically transparent composite established on at least the at least one surface of the at least one optically transparent member. The composite is in thermal communication with the at least one electrical strip. The composite includes a matrix, and a predetermined amount of graphene. The predetermined amount is based upon a predetermined transparency for the structure and a predetermined thermal conductivity of the structure. Furthermore, the structure is configured such that the graphene functions as a thermal conductor for substantially uniform heating of the composite and not an electrical conductor. |
| US08431866B2 |
Method of installing and removing a bracket on a mounting surface
A heat pad assembly for installation and/or removal of a bracket from a structure comprises a heating element. The heat pad assembly may have at least one and, more preferably, a plurality of perforations formed therein. The heating element may be configured to generate heat upon the application of electrical current passing therethrough. The heat pad assembly may be used for temporary installation of a bracket to a mounting surface through the use of an adhesive which is installable between the bracket and the structure. |
| US08431865B2 |
Stick electrode
A welding electrode comprising a metal core and a flux coating at least partially coated on an outer surface of said metal core, and also including a end coating material which at least partially inhibits porosity of a weld bead formed during the welding operation. |
| US08431861B2 |
Height position detecting apparatus and height position detecting method
A laser beam having an annular spot shape with which a workpiece is irradiated is reflected on an upper surface and a lower surface of the workpiece. The reflected light having the annular spot shape which is reflected on the lower surface of the workpiece is intercepted by a pinhole mask, whereas the reflected light having the annular spot shape which is reflected on the upper surface of the workpiece is permitted to pass through the pinhole mask, and the intensity of light received is detected based on the latter reflected light. Therefore, the height position of the upper surface of a workpiece can be detected even where the workpiece is transmissive to visible rays. In this case, with regard to the reflected light having the annular spot shape which is reflected on the upper surface of the workpiece, the intensity of the light after diffusion by a laser beam diffusing unit is detected by a photodetector having a detecting surface with a predetermined area. This makes it possible to assuredly and accurately detect the upper surface height position of the workpiece, even in the presence of scattering of the annular spot shape. |
| US08431858B2 |
Seam welding method and seam welding apparatus
The seam welding apparatus welds a workpiece held by a robot while delivering the workpiece between a pair of electrode rolls. The seam welding apparatus includes a load cell mounted on the robot, for detecting a load imposed along a Y direction which is perpendicular to a pressing direction Z along which the electrode rolls press the workpiece at a weld point and a delivering direction X along which the robot delivers the workpiece at the weld point, a robot controller and an arithmetic unit, a turning mechanism for turning the electrode rolls about the pressing direction Z, and a control device for controlling the turning mechanism to operate depending on the magnitude of the load in the Y direction detected by the load cell. |
| US08431856B2 |
Inner burner for electric arc wire spraying
The invention relates to an inner burner (1) for electric arc wire spraying of hollow spaces, particularly cylinder bearing surfaces (9), comprising two meltable electrodes which are supplied in two feed channels (5) to a discharge nozzle (6) of the inner burner (1). The two electrodes are connected to two sliding contacts (4) for electrical energy transmission. According to the invention, the two sliding contacts (4) are displaceably mounted in the axial direction (10) and are each connected to a guide element (7) which is also displaceably mounted in the axial direction (10). The respective guide element (7) is axially pretensioned via at least one associated spring (11) and thereby presses the sliding contact (4) against the electrode, wherein the feed channels (5), the sliding contacts (4) and the guide elements (7) are arranged parallel to one another in the spraying head (2). |
| US08431849B2 |
Backlighting apparatus for a keypad assembly
A keypad assembly including a dome configured to operatively engage a switch sensor; a dome overlay guide operatively coupled by to the dome; a key corresponding to the dome and configured to operatively engage the dome; and a light emitting source, configured to emit light. The dome overlay guide is configured to receive the light emitted by the light emitting source and direct the received light toward the keys. |
| US08431845B2 |
Electrical switching apparatus and levering assembly therefor
A levering assembly for an electrical switching apparatus, such as a circuit breaker, which is removably disposed in a cassette, includes a mounting member coupled to the housing of the circuit breaker. A drive assembly is coupled to the mounting member and cooperates with the cassette. A powered actuator, such as an electric motor, is disposed on the mounting member and actuates the drive assembly to move the circuit breaker with respect to the cassette. The powered actuator is disposed within the housing of the circuit breaker. The mounting member, drive assembly and powered actuator form a self-contained sub-assembly, which is substantially disposed behind the circuit breaker cover. The levering assembly is operable from a remote location to automatically move the circuit breaker with respect to the cassette, to provide enhanced safety among other benefits. |
| US08431844B2 |
Switch device for implementing power-on process and related method and portable computer system
A switch device for implementing a power-on process for a portable electronic device includes a switch having a protrusion, a switch socket installed in the portable electronic device including a slot utilized for embedding the switch and a conducting portion for outputting a trigger signal while the protrusion is electrically connected to the conducting portion, and a trigger identification unit for starting the portable electronic device according to the trigger signal. |
| US08431833B2 |
Printed wiring board and method for manufacturing the same
A printed wiring board includes a substrate having a first surface, a second surface on the opposite side of the first surface and a through-hole extending between the first and second surfaces, a first conductive circuit formed on the first surface of the substrate, a second conductive circuit formed on the second surface of the substrate, and a through-hole conductor filling the through-hole and connecting the first and second conductive circuits. The through-hole has a first opening portion tapering from the first surface toward the second surface and a second opening portion tapering from the second surface toward the first surface. The substrate is made of a resin and a reinforcing material portion in the resin. The reinforcing material portion has a protruding portion protruding into the through-hole at the intersection of the first and second opening portions. The protruding portion encroaches into the through-hole conductor. |
| US08431826B2 |
Capacitive power and ground plane structure utilizing fractal elements for the reduction of radiated emissions
The construction of a capacitive Power and/or Ground plane sandwich with fractal element structures to achieve the reduction or elimination of radiated emissions as “noise” from the planes. This may be achieved in several formats, including the patterning of fractal elements on the outside edge of the ground plane, the patterning of fractal elements on the outside edge of the power plane and the patterning of fractal elements within both of the planes. Fractal element structures may also be formed on the edges of circuit lines, or other conductive elements within the printed circuit board. The ability of these fractal patterns to absorb or reject frequencies on the planes due to the operation of an electronic device on the printed circuit board enhancing and aiding the capacitive effect of the plane in the reduction or elimination of radiated emissions as electronic noise. By utilizing this design maximum quieting of electronic noise may be achieved in all axis (X,Y,Z) without the use of surface bypass capacitors or conventional techniques such as edge plating or via hole edge stitching. |
| US08431824B1 |
Direct bury splice kits
A direct bury kit having an elongated housing having a chamber for inserting a wire connector therein with the housing and the cover each having at least one jaw to clamp a portion of a wire against the jaws to thereby inhibit or prevent disruption of an electrical connection while maintaining the electrical connection in a waterproof condition. |
| US08431823B2 |
Cable management and identification device
A cable management device is provided, which includes a first leg and a second leg connected by a connecting crown member. A first protrusion extends from the first leg. A second protrusion extends from the second leg. The first leg and the second leg both include an aperture. The cable management device includes passageway defined by an inner-surface of the first leg, an inner-surface of the second leg, and an inner-surface of the connecting crown member. The passageway is operable to hold a cable. |
| US08431818B2 |
Solar cells and photodetectors with semiconducting nanostructures
Improved photovoltaic devices and methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, an exemplary photovoltaic device includes a semiconductor layer and a light-responsive layer (which can be made, for example, of a semiconductor material) which form a junction, such as a p-n junction. The light-responsive layer can include a plurality of carbon nanostructures, such as carbon nanotubes, located therein. In many cases, the carbon nanostructures can provide a conductive pathway within the light-responsive layer. In another embodiment, an exemplary photovoltaic device can include a light-responsive layer made of a semiconductor material in which is embedded a plurality of semiconducting carbon nanostructures (such as p-type single-wall carbon nanotubes). The interfaces between the semiconductor material and the semiconducting carbon nanostructures can form p-n junctions. In yet other embodiments, exemplary photovoltaic devices include semiconductor nanostructures, which can take a variety of forms, in addition to the carbon nanostructures. Further embodiments include a wide variety of other configurations and features. Methods of fabricating photovoltaic devices, as well as nanostructured photodetectors, as also disclosed. |
| US08431813B2 |
Percussion instrument and method with coupling devices
A percussion instrument may include a plurality of coupling device for operatively connecting a first hoop member, which may be configured to hold down a head arranged across a first end of a shell, with a second hoop member, which may be arranged on a second end of the shell. A sensor adjacent the head configured to detect vibration of the head may be operatively connected to the second hoop member. |
| US08431809B1 |
Electronic music display
An electronic music display and methods of using the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, the electronic music display includes a user interface configured to receive one or more music files, a memory device configured to store the one or more music files, a controller configured to program the electronic music display in accordance with user specified requirements with respect to order of the one or more music files to be displayed and with respect to tempos that corresponding different sections of the one or more music files to be performed, and a display configured to display a sequence of pages of the one or more music files as programmed. |
| US08431803B1 |
Maize variety hybrid X03A178
A novel maize variety designated X03A178 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing hybrid maize variety X03A178 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X03A178 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X03A178, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X03A178. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X03A178. |
| US08431801B2 |
Loblolly pine tree named ‘01PM0212’
A new and distinct variety of loblolly pine tree named ‘01PM0212’, particularly characterized by uniform rapid growth; good stem straightness; moderate rust resistance; and moderate to long internode. |
| US08431798B1 |
Soybean cultivar S110136
A soybean cultivar designated S110136 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar S110136, to the plants of soybean cultivar S110136, to the plant parts of soybean cultivar S110136, and to methods for producing progeny of soybean cultivar S110136. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. The invention also relates to soybean cultivars or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S110136. The invention also relates to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines, or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S110136, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing cultivar S110136 with another soybean cultivar. |
| US08431796B1 |
Soybean cultivar S110143
A soybean cultivar designated S110143 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar S110143, to the plants of soybean cultivar S110143, to the plant parts of soybean cultivar S110143, and to methods for producing progeny of soybean cultivar S110143. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. The invention also relates to soybean cultivars or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S110143. The invention also relates to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines, or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S110143, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing cultivar S110143 with another soybean cultivar. |
| US08431793B1 |
Soybean cultivar 11133031
A soybean cultivar designated 11133031 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar 11133031, to the plants of soybean cultivar 11133031, to the plant parts of soybean cultivar 11133031, and to methods for producing progeny of soybean cultivar 11133031. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. The invention also relates to soybean cultivars or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 11133031. The invention also relates to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines, or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 11133031, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing cultivar 11133031 with another soybean cultivar. |
| US08431792B1 |
Soybean cultivar 18340601
A soybean cultivar designated 18340601 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar 18340601, to the plants of soybean cultivar 18340601, to the plant parts of soybean cultivar 18340601, and to methods for producing progeny of soybean cultivar 18340601. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. The invention also relates to soybean cultivars or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 18340601. The invention also relates to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines, or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 18340601, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing cultivar 18340601 with another soybean cultivar. |
| US08431785B2 |
Soybean variety A1024750
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated A1024750. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety A1024750. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety A1024750 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety A1024750 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods. |
| US08431783B2 |
Soybean variety A1024748
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated A1024748. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety A1024748. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety A1024748 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety A1024748 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods. |
| US08431781B2 |
Soybean variety A1024666
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated A1024666. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety A1024666. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety A1024666 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety A1024666 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods. |
| US08431779B2 |
Soybean variety A1024638
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated A1024638. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety A1024638. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety A1024638 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety A1024638 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods. |
| US08431776B2 |
Soybean variety A1023535
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated A1023535. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety A1023535. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety A1023535 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety A1023535 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods. |
| US08431771B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH041754
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH041754. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH041754, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH041754 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH041754. |
| US08431764B2 |
Para-xylene-separation with aluminosilicate X-type zeolite compositions with low LTA-type zeolite
A process for separating para-xylene from a mixture of C8 alkylaromatics comprises contacting the mixture of C8 alkylaromatics with a zeolitic binder-converted composition comprising (a) a zeolite X composition having at least a first zeolite X having a mean diameter not greater than 2.7 microns, and a second zeolite X, wherein the second zeolite X is obtained by converting a binder material to the second zeolite X and the binder material is in a range from 5 to 50 wt % of the zeolite X composition; and (b) an unconverted binder material content, after conversion to the second zeolite X is complete, in a range from 0 to 3 wt % of the zeolite X composition. The zeolite X composition has an average Si/Al framework mole ratio in a range from 1.0 to 1.5, and a relative LTA intensity not greater than 1.0, as determined by x-ray diffraction (XRD). |
| US08431758B2 |
Processes for increasing the overall aromatics and xylenes yield in an aromatics complex
Processes for increasing overall aromatics and xylenes yield in an aromatics complex are provided. A C8+ aromatics stream from an aromatics-rich reformate is separated into a C8 aromatics fraction and a C9+ aromatics fraction comprising higher alkyl group-substituted C9 and C10 aromatics. The C9+ aromatics fraction is separated into a lighter boiling, higher alkyl group-substituted C9 or C9/C10 aromatics fraction and a heavier boiling, C10+ or C11+ aromatics fraction. The lighter boiling, higher alkyl group-substituted C9 or C9/C10 aromatics fraction is isomerized to convert a portion of the higher alkyl group-substituted C9 or C9/C10 aromatics therein into methyl-enriched C9 aromatics or methyl-enriched C9/C10 aromatics. The methyl-enriched C9+ aromatics stream comprising the methyl-enriched C9+ aromatics stream or the methyl-enriched C9/C10 aromatics is transalkylated with a toluene-containing stream. |
| US08431753B2 |
Conversion of butanol to a reaction product comprising 2-ethylhexanol using hydroxyapatite catalysts
Catalytic processes to produce a reaction product comprising 2-ethylhexanol by contacting a reactant comprising 1-butanol with a catalyst composition under suitable reaction conditions are provided. The catalyst composition may comprise a hydroxyapatite of the Formula (MwM′xM″yM′″z)5(PO4)3(OH), wherein M is Mg; M′ is Ca; M″ is Sr; M′″ is Ba; w is any number between 0 and 1 inclusive; x is any number from 0 to less than 0.5; y is any number between 0 and 1 inclusive; z is any number between 0 and 1 inclusive; and w+x+y+z=1. Base-treated catalyst compositions may be used. |
| US08431747B2 |
Process for the preparation of monomers for polybenzimidazole materials
A process is provided to produce 2,3,5,6-tetraaminotoluene. Highly pure salts of 2,3,5,6-tetraaminotoluene are produced via reduction of 2,6-diamino-3,5-dinitrotoluene. The 2,3,5,6-tetraaminotoluene salt is precipitated as a clean (>99% purity) product. The salt is a precursor for monomers to make a polybenzimidazole for high performance fibers. |
| US08431746B2 |
Method for producing diphenylmethane diamine
The invention relates to a process for preparing mixtures of diphenylmethanediamine and polyphenylenepolymethylenepolyamines, which comprises the steps a) reaction of aniline with formaldehyde in the presence of hydrochloric acid, b) neutralization of the reaction mixture formed in step a) c) separation of the organic phase from the aqueous phase, d) work-up of the organic phase, e) work-up of the aqueous phase, wherein step e) comprises at least the steps e1) extraction of the aqueous phase with an organic solvent, e2) stripping of the aqueous phase obtained in step e1), e3) absorption of the solution obtained from step e2). |
| US08431742B2 |
Method for producing dodeca-2,10-diene-1,12-dicarboxylic acid or 1,12-dodecane-dicarboxylic acid by way of ring-opening cross metathesis (ROCM) of cyclooctene with acrylic acid
The invention relates to a method for producing 1,2-dodeca-2,10-diene diacid and 1,12-dodecanoic acid whereby cyclooctene and acrylic acid are reacted with a ruthenium catalyst by way of a metathesis reaction at high substrate concentrations until the reaction takes place in substance, the resulting unsaturated dicarboxylic acid being precipitated and being hydrated in a second reaction step. |
| US08431739B2 |
Process for the preparation of gabapentin
This invention discloses a process for converting gabapentin acid salt to free gabapentin, where the salt is dissolved in an organic solvent in which both gabapentin acid salt and free gabapentin are soluble. The solution is treated with a powdered alkaline base to liberate free gabapentin which will remain in solution. The insoluble alkali salt of the acid is removed by filtration. From the filtrate free gabapentin is obtained either by adding anti-solvent or by extraction with water. |
| US08431735B2 |
Processes for preparing pharmaceutical grade melphalans from industrial grade reactants
A four stage inexpensive method of preparing pharmaceutical grade Melphalans of Melphalan 2-HCl, Melphalan HCl and Melphalan by: reacting N-phthaloyl-4-[bis(2-hydroxyethyl)amino]-phenylalanine ethyl ester with phosphorous oxychloride, reacting the chlorinated product with HCl and alkali hydroxide and purifying, and lyophilizing to obtain Melphalans. |
| US08431730B2 |
Sulfonate esters as latent acid catalysts
The present invention is directed towards novel sulfonic acid esters as catalysts for crosslinking of polymers having hydroxyl, carboxyl, and amide functional groups with a crosslinking agent and resin compositions containing the same. The present invention provides polymeric film coatings which have superior hardness, impact resistance, adhesion, improved blister resistance, salt spray characteristics and flexibility. These catalysts are especially effective in coil primer formulations containing calcium ion exchange anticorrosive pigments, where traditional blocked acid catalysts are ineffective. |
| US08431729B2 |
High activity catalyst compositions containing silicon-bridged metallocenes with bulky substituents
The present invention discloses catalyst compositions employing silicon-bridged metallocene compounds with bulky substituents. Methods for making these silicon-bridged metallocene compounds and for using such compounds in catalyst compositions for the polymerization of olefins also are provided. |
| US08431728B2 |
Process for the ammonolysis of 11-bromoundecanoic acid
The invention relates to a process for the ammonolysis of 11-aminoundecanoic acid, carried out under conditions that make it possible to limit secondary reactions that produce impurities, especially secondary amine type reactions, while considerably reducing the reaction time. According to the invention, the process comprises the following steps: i) a step of dispersing 11-bromoundecanoic acid, molten or non-molten, in an aqueous solution of ammonia, and ii) an ammonolysis step comprising the reaction of 11-bromoundecanoic acid with excess ammonia water under conditions whereby the reaction medium is stirred and heated gradually so as to obtain 11-aminoundecanoc acid with total consumption of the 11-bromoundecanoic acid. |
| US08431725B2 |
Purification of lactide rich streams
A method for the purification or recovery of lactide rich streams by the combination of a suspension-based melt crystallization process with a subsequent separation of the pure lactide crystals in a wash column is disclosed. |
| US08431724B2 |
Iejimalid analoga and uses thereof
The invention relates to Iejimalides having the following formula (I) in which a, b, c, d, e, f, g, h, i, j, k, l, m, n, o, p are simple or double bonds, the continuous lines representing at least one simple bond, the dotted lines representing a possible bond. A double bond can be present but it is not necessary, and provided that a continuous line is also present, or a simple bond can be present if no other line is represented; m=0-20 and n1-n18=1, 2. The bonds can be used as chemotherapeutic agents for treating cancer. |
| US08431723B2 |
Radicals and their use as paramagnetic agents in a DNP process
The invention relates to new radicals, their use as paramagnetic agents in a method for the dynamic nuclear polarisation and a method for the dynamic nuclear polarisation of compounds comprising carboxyl groups. |
| US08431722B2 |
Acrylate ester derivatives and polymer compounds
A cyclic alcohol of formula (II-1): wherein: R2, R3, and R4 are each independently a hydrogen atom, a linear alkyl group comprising 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a branched alkyl group comprising 3 to 6 carbon atoms, or a cyclic alkyl group comprising 3 to 6 carbon atoms; or R2 and R3 or R3 and R4 combine to form an alkylene group comprising 3 to 6 carbon atoms; m is 1 or 2; R5, R6, R7, R8, R9, and R10 are each independently a hydrogen atom, a linear alkyl group comprising 1 to 6 carbon atoms, a branched alkyl group comprising 3 to 6 carbon atoms, or a cyclic alkyl group comprising 3 to 6 carbon atoms; A is an oxygen atom; and B is an oxygen atom or a sulfur atom. In addition, a process for producing the cyclic alcohol of formula (II-1). |
| US08431716B2 |
Preparation of alkylimidazolidone (meth)acrylates in water
The invention relates to special (methyl)acrylaic monomers and concerns more particularly an enhanced process for preparing solutions of alkylimiozolidone (meth)acrylates in water solutions of alkylimidazolidone (meth)acrylates in a light (meth)acrylate. |
| US08431710B2 |
Process for the synthesis of halogenated cyclic compounds
A process for the manufacture of a cyclic compound of formula (I) which comprises (a) adding an acid halide of formula R1—C(O)—X, to a vinyl ether of formula (II): CH2═CH—OR2, to produce an addition product, and (b) reacting the addition product with a compound of formula (III): Y-A-Z; wherein R1 is a halogenated alkyl group; wherein X is fluorine, chlorine, or bromine; wherein R2 is an alkyl group, an aralkyl group, or an aryl group; wherein Z and Y designate independently carbon or a heteroatom; and wherein A is a linking group between Z and Y comprising 0, 1, 2 or 3 atoms in the cycle. |
| US08431709B2 |
Acylation reaction of hydroxyl group
Disclosed is a selective ester production process of an alcoholic hydroxyl group, which proceeds under chemically mild conditions, while having adequate environmental suitability, operability and economical efficiency. Specifically disclosed is a process for producing an ester compound, which is characterized in that an alcohol and a carboxylic acid ester compound are reacted in the presence of a compound containing zinc element, thereby selectively acylating a hydroxyl group of the alcohol. |
| US08431708B2 |
Fluorescent carbazole compounds for cancer diagnosis
A compound of formula (I): in which R1-R8, A, B, X, Y, m, and n are as defined herein. Also disclosed is a method for detecting a cancer cell using a compound of formula I. |
| US08431701B2 |
Process for the reductive alkylation of normorphinans
The invention provides a process for the N-alkylation of normorphinan compounds to produce N-alkylated morphinan compounds. In particular, the process relates to the alkylation of a normorphinan compound by a carboxaldehyde in the presence of a reducing agent to form an N-alkylated morphinan. |
| US08431696B2 |
Method for continuously producing melamine
A process for the continuous production of melamine from urea by means of a fluidized-bed reactor, wherein process gas guided in the process circuit is used as fluidizing gas and wherein the temperature of the process gas at the inlet of the conveying means for the fluidizing gas is adjusted by adjusting the mixing ratio of a process gas stream guided over a scrubber and of a process gas stream guided past the scrubber. |
| US08431692B2 |
Compositions and methods for treatment of ear disorders
The present invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions useful for topical, non-invasive delivery of an oligonucleotide to the ear and to methods for the treatment of an ear disorder, including hearing loss arising from chemical-induced ototoxicity, acoustic trauma and presbycusis; and microbial infections. The method comprises topically administering to the ear of a subject in need thereof a pharmaceutical composition comprising an inhibitory oligonucleotide, a permeability enhancer and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, wherein the oligonucleotide reduces or inhibits expression of a gene associated with the ear disorder in the subject. |
| US08431691B2 |
Reagents, methods, and libraries for bead-based sequencing
The present invention provides methods for determining a nucleic acid sequence by performing successive cycles of duplex extension along a single stranded template. The cycles comprise steps of extension, ligation, and, preferably, cleavage. In certain embodiments the methods make use of extension probes containing phosphorothiolate linkages and employ agents appropriate to cleave such linkages. The invention provides methods of determining information about a sequence using at least two distinguishably labeled probe families. In certain embodiments the methods acquire less than 2 bits of information from each of a plurality of nucleotides in the template in each cycle. In certain embodiments the sequencing reactions are performed on templates attached to immobilized beads. The invention further provides sets of labeled probes containing phosphorothiolate linkages. In addition, the invention includes performing multiple sequencing reactions on a single template by removing initializing oligonucleotides and extended strands and performing subsequent reactions using different initializing oligonucleotides. |
| US08431689B2 |
Method of synthesis of anhydrous thorium(IV) complexes
Method of producing anhydrous thorium(IV) tetrahalide complexes, utilizing Th(NO3)4(H2O)x, where x is at least 4, as a reagent; method of producing thorium-containing complexes utilizing ThCl4(DME)2 as a precursor; method of producing purified ThCl4(ligand)x compounds, where x is from 2 to 9; and novel compounds having the structures: |
| US08431688B2 |
Synthetic peptide constructs for the diagnosis and treatment of Periodontitis associated with Porphyromonas gingivalis
The present invention relates to an oral composition and an immunogenic composition for the suppression of the pathogenic effects of the intra-oral bacterium Porphyromonas gingivalis associated with periodontal disease. |
| US08431685B2 |
Polymer-based sustained release device
This invention relates to compositions for the sustained release of biologically active polypeptides, and methods of forming and using said compositions, for the sustained release of biologically active polypeptides. The sustained release compositions of this invention comprise a biocompatible polymer having dispersed therein, a biologically active polypeptide and a sugar. |
| US08431684B2 |
Process for the preparation of ibodutant (MEN15596) and related intermediates
This invention relates to a novel process for synthesizing the product ibodutant shown in the figure below, consisting of a small number of high-yield steps involving reagents and solvents with low environmental impact, characterized by the coupling of two portions, compounds (3) and (4), one of which (3) is synthesized by coupling of 6-methyl-2-benzo[b]thiophenecarboxylic acid (1) with 1-amino-alpha-alpha-cyclopentan carboxylic acid and subsequent cyclization with oxazolone, while the other, compound (4), is obtained from suitable highly selective functionalizations of 4-aminomethylpiperidine (2). |
| US08431681B2 |
Coating composition and coat article coated therewith
A coating composition includes, with respect to (1) 100 parts by weight of epoxy-group contained polyester modified vinyl polymer (D) obtained by copolymerization of a vinyl monomer (A) containing an alicyclic epoxy group and a vinyl monomer (B) containing polyester in a side chain, (2) 0.01 to 10 parts by weight of an organic metal compound, and (3) 0.01 to 10 parts by weight of a silicon compound having a silanol group. |
| US08431680B2 |
Semiconductor materials based on thienothiophene-2,5-dione oligomers and polymers
The present invention provides a polymer comprising a unit of formula and an electronic device comprising the polymer as semiconducting material. |
| US08431679B2 |
Polyphenylene sulfide resin coated article
A polyphenylene sulfide resin coated article comprising: a molded article (A) of a polyphenylene sulfide resin material (a) which comprises a polyphenylene sulfide resin (a1), and a coated film layer (B) which is formed by applying a coating which comprises as a solid component a chlorinated polyolefin resin (b1) having a chlorine atom content of 20 to 45% by mass on the surface of the molded article (A). |
| US08431676B2 |
Aromatic compound and sulfonated polyarylene polymer
The invention described herein relates to a polyarylene copolymer comprising a structural unit represented by formula (1′): where the structural variables are defined herein. The invention also relates to a solid polymer electrolyte, a proton conductive membrane and A proton conductive membrane for direct methanol fuel cell which contains the polyarylene copolymer. |
| US08431672B2 |
Method for manufacturing an isocyanate-terminated prepolymer, prepolymer obtained thereby, and polyurethane resin
The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing an isocyanate group-terminated prepolymer, comprising the following steps (a) to (d): (a) a step of ring-opening polymerizing an alkyleneoxide-containing cyclic compound by using an initiator in the presence of a composite metal cyanide complex catalyst, thereby obtaining a polyol composition containing the catalyst; (b) a step of, without removal of the composite metal cyanide complex catalyst from the polyol composition obtained in the step (a), adding water and performing a heat treatment in a closed system; (c) a step of subjecting the hydrous polyol composition after the step (b) to a dehydration treatment; and (d) a step of adding a polyisocyanate compound to the polyol composition after the step (c) and subjecting to a reaction with the polyol in the polyol composition. |
| US08431668B2 |
Branched polydiorganosiloxane polyamide copolymers
Branched polydiorganosiloxane polyamide, block copolymers and methods of making the copolymers are provided. The method of making the copolymers involves reacting one or more amine compounds including at least one polyamine with a precursor having at least one polydiorganosiloxane segment and at least two ester groups. |
| US08431651B2 |
Vacuum thermoformed, extruded sheeting with improved reduced gloss
The present invention is directed to an elastomer composition having at least two phases, one phase comprising a very low density polyethylene “VLDPE” component and another phase comprising a propylene polymer component wherein the propylene polymer component comprises at least one branched polypropylene and the VLDPE phase is continuous. Preferably, the VLDPE component has a melt tan delta between about 0.7 and 8 as measured by parallel plate rheometer at 0.1 radians per second, 180° C., and 10 percent strain; and the ratio of the melt tan delta of the VLDPE to the melt tan delta of the propylene component is from 0.5 to 4. The invention also provides a method of making such compositions, and to low gloss articles prepared from the same. The inventive compositions are particularly suitable for fabricating thermoformed sheeting with reduced gloss, most preferably employed as a skin in a composite interior automotive article comprising a shaped article and a negative thermoformed shaped skin or as non-carpet automotive flooring. |
| US08431648B2 |
Coated substrates and polymer dispersions suitable for use in making the same
A coated substrate comprises a substrate and a coating on at least one surface of the substrate. The coating comprises a prepolymer, polymer, or resin produced, for example, by the reaction of (i) an isocyanate (e.g., a polyisocyanate), (ii) an active hydrogen-terminated colorant, and optionally (iii) at least one reactant selected from the group consisting of chain extenders, polyols, internal surfactants, and combinations thereof. Polymer dispersions suitable for use in making such coated substrates comprise such a prepolymer, polymer, or resin. |
| US08431646B2 |
Mixture containing organosilicon compound and use thereof
The present invention relates to the use of a mixture that is dispersible, redispersible, or soluble in water, or an aqueous composition for protecting substrates from corrosion, wherein the mixture, or the composition, is based on at least one organic polymer that is soluble in water and at least one organosilicon compound. The invention further relates to a mixture that is dispersible, redispersible, or soluble in water, based on at least one organic polymer that is soluble in water and at least one organosilicon compound having at least one Si—O—Si bond and/or at least one Si—Si bond, wherein either the content of the organic polymer soluble in water, based on the sum of the organic polymer soluble in water and of the organosilicon compound, is between about 40 and about 80 wt.-%, or the organosilicon compound is an oligomer mixture of alkyl alkoxy siloxanes, wherein the oligomer mixture contains 50 to 100 wt.-% of alkyl alkoxy siloxanes, and the same have a degree of oligomerization of 2 to 20. The invention further provides a method for the production of mixtures according to the invention and the use thereof. |
| US08431645B2 |
Rigid-matrix composition-gradient copolymers which are soluble and/or dispersible in water and in organic solvents
The invention relates to composition-gradient copolymers, comprising: repeat units resulting from the polymerization of at least one first monomer M1, the corresponding homopolymer of which exhibits a glass transition temperature Tg1 of less than 20° C., said repeat units representing from 15 to 40% by weight, with respect to the total weight of the copolymer; repeat units resulting from the polymerization of at least one second monomer M2, the corresponding homopolymer of which exhibits a glass transition temperature Tg2 of greater than 20° C., said repeat units representing from 45% to 65% by weight, with respect to the total weight of the copolymer; hydrophilic repeat units resulting from the polymerization of a least one third monomer M3, said repeat units representing from 10 to 25% by weight, with respect to the total weight of the copolymer. |
| US08431644B2 |
Rubber composition and tire
The present invention has its object to provide a rubber composition that can be used for a tread to supply a tire having both low heat build-up property and good wet grip performance. The present invention relates to a rubber composition including: silica and a rubber component that contains a modified butadiene rubber having a vinyl content of 35% by weight or less and having, in a main chain thereof, a constitutional unit derived from a specific nitrogen-containing compound, wherein an amount of the modified butadiene rubber is 5 to 45% by weight per 100% by weight of the rubber component, and wherein an amount of the silica is 10 to 150 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the rubber component. |
| US08431643B2 |
Polyolefin adhesive compositions and method of making thereof
The packaging industry desires adhesive compositions having a fast set time, such as those setting in less than five seconds from a molten state at conventional packaging operating temperatures to a solid or quasi solid having favorable Dot T-Peel, set time, and/or fiber tear adhesion properties. Polymer based adhesives performing within this window are a favorable alternative to conventional formulated adhesives. The provided adhesive compositions exhibit a favorable balance of properties such as high adhesive strength, wide temperature operating window, and fast set time. Provided are adhesive compositions composed of a polyolefin composition comprising at least about 50 mol % polypropylene, at least one wax and at least one wax modifier. |
| US08431641B2 |
Telechelic polyester/polycarbonate/organoclay nanocomposites, and related methods and articles
A composition comprises, based on the total weight of the composition, from 30 to 50 weight percent of an ionomeric telechelic polyalkylene ester comprising from 0.05 to 5 mole percent of sulfonate end groups; from 50 to 70 weight percent of a polycarbonate; from 0.1 to 10 weight percent of an organoclay; and from 2 to 12 weight percent of an impact modifier. |
| US08431639B2 |
Wetting additive and composition including the same
A composition, such as a pigment dispersion or coating composition, includes a pigment and a wetting additive. The wetting additive includes a first agent and a second agent. The first agent has the following formula: X(AO)mH wherein X is a C6 to C16 branched chain, A is an alkylene group selected from the group of ethylene groups, propylene groups, butylene groups, and combinations thereof, and m is from about 3 to about 20. The second agent is different from the first agent and has the following formula: Y(A′O)nH wherein Y is a C6 to C16 linear chain, A′ is an alkylene group selected from the group of ethylene groups, propylene groups, butylene groups, and combinations thereof, and n is at least about 3. The second agent has a triblock (A″O)p(EO)q(A″O)r configuration in the portion represented by (A′O)n, wherein A″ is selected from the group of propylene groups, butylene groups, and combinations thereof and wherein p, q, and r are each independently at least 1. |
| US08431636B2 |
Polyamide resin composition
A polyamide resin composition according to the present invention comprises (A) crystalline polyamide resin having a glass transition temperature (Tg) of about 50 to about 100° C.; (B) crystalline polyamide resin having a glass transition temperature (Tg) of about 110 to about 160° C.; (C) inorganic filler; (D) white pigment; and (E) light stabilizer, and can have excellent surface gloss, surface reflectance, heat resistance, mechanical strength, moldability, light stability and discoloration resistance. |
| US08431629B2 |
Wet friction material including an inorganic filler
In a wet friction material, inorganic filler of small particle size is added to fill clearances or space between fibers with the inorganic filler. The inorganic filler is attached to the fibers with each other to reinforce strength of the wet friction material when an impregnated resin is hardened. Absolute specific gravity of the inorganic filler is set at a fixed value so as to make its compounding quantity small, thereby assuring a pore diameter of a friction material substrate without filling pores of the friction material substrate with the inorganic filler. |
| US08431621B2 |
Method for the preparation of aqueous dispersions of TiO2 in the form of nanoparticles, and dispersions obtainable with this method
The invention relates to a method for the preparation of aqueous dispersions of TiO2 in the crystalline form anatase, as well as the dispersions obtained with said method, useful for the preparation of photocatalytic coatings for surfaces, and for the photocatalytic decontamination of gases and liquids. |
| US08431620B2 |
Process for the preparation of water-in-oil and oil-in-water nanoemulsions
Process for the preparation of a water-in-oil or oil-in-water nanoemulsion wherein the dispersed phase is distributed in the dispersing phase in the form of droplets having a diameter ranging from 1 to 500 nm, comprising: 1) the preparation of a homogeneous water/oil blend (I) characterized by an interface tension lower than 1 mN/m, comprising water in an amount of 30 to 70% by weight, at least two surface-active agents having a different HLB, selected from non-ionic, anionic, polymeric surface-active agents, said surface-active agents being present in such a quantity as to make the blend homogeneous; 2) the dilution of the blend (I) in a dispersing phase consisting of oil or water with the addition of a surface-active agent, selected from non-ionic, anionic, polymeric surface-active agents, the quantity of the dispersing phase and surface-active agent being such as to obtain a nanoemulsion having a HLB different from that of the blend (I). |
| US08431613B2 |
Memory fixation accelerator
A medicament for promoting memory consolidation, which comprises, as an active ingredient, a non-natural retinoid, preferably a retinoid having a basic skeleton comprising an aromatic ring bound with an aromatic carboxylic acid or tropolone by means of a bridging group, more preferably 4-[(5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-5,5,8,8-tetramethyl-2-naphthalenyl)carbamoyl]benzoic acid or 4-[(3,5-bis-trimethylsilylphenyl)-carboxamido]benzoic acid. |
| US08431610B2 |
Alkanoylamino benzamide aniline HDAC inhibitor compounds
The present invention provides a compound of general Formula (I) having histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitory activity, a pharmaceutical composition comprising the compound, and a method useful to treat diseases using the compound. |
| US08431609B2 |
Process for preparation of pyrazole derivatives
A process for preparation of Pyrazole derivatives adapted for one pot reaction involving the use of a pyclizing agent and involving the step of amidation in the presence of a catalyst. The steps for isolation and purification of found Pyrazole derivatives are also disclosed. |
| US08431606B2 |
Medicament for treating schizophrenia comprising cilostazol
The invention relates to a medicament for preventing and/or treating schizophrenia which comprises as an active ingredient cilostazol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. |
| US08431602B2 |
Beta-amino acid derivatives for treatment of diabetes
Novel heterocyclic compounds of the formula I in which R1, R2, R2′, R2″, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7 and R8 have the meanings indicated in Claim 1, are activators of glucokinase and can be used for the prevention and/or treatment of Diabetes Typ 1 and 2, obesity, neuropathy and/or nephropathy. |
| US08431601B2 |
Topical compositions comprising telmesteine for treating dermatological disorders
This invention relates to topical compositions, such as creams and lotions, that comprise or consist essentially of Telmesteine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, as the active ingredient, and methods for their use in treating a variety of dermatological diseases and disorders, including atopic, dermatitis (eczema), allergic contact dermatitis. seborrheic dermatitis, radiation dermatitis, psoriasis, xerosis and atopy. |
| US08431598B2 |
Polymorphic forms of 3-(4-amino-1-oxo-1,3 dihydro-isoindol-2-yl)-piperidine-2,6-dione
Polymorphic forms of 3-(4-amino-1-oxo-1,3 dihydro-isoindol-2-yl)-piperidine-2,6-dione are disclosed. Compositions comprising the polymorphic forms, methods of making the polymorphic forms and methods of their use are also disclosed. |
| US08431597B2 |
Benzimidazole derivatives
The present invention relates to a compound of the Formula I or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R1, R2, R3A, R3B, R4, R5, X, m, and n are as defined herein. Such novel benzamidazole derivatives are useful in the treatment of abnormal cell growth, such as cancer, in mammals. This invention also relates to a method of using such compounds in the treatment of abnormal cell growth in mammals, especially humans, and to pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds. |
| US08431595B2 |
Furanopyridine cannabinoid compounds and related methods of use
Furanopyridine cannabinoid analog compounds of the formula I are disclosed. The compounds are useful to modify the activity of CB1 and CB2 receptors and treat conditions mediated by these receptors. |
| US08431594B2 |
Bridged bicyclic heteroaryl substituted triazoles useful as AXL inhibitors
Bridged bicyclic heteroaryl substituted triazoles and pharmaceutical compositions containing the compounds are disclosed as being useful in inhibiting the activity of the receptor protein tyrosine kinase AxI. Methods of using the compounds in treating diseases or conditions associated with AxI activity are also disclosed. |
| US08431593B2 |
Heteroaryl amide derivatives
Heteroaryl amide derivatives are provided, of the Formula: wherein variables are as described herein. Such compounds are ligands that may be used to modulate specific receptor activity in vivo or in vitro, and are particularly useful in the treatment of conditions associated with pathological receptor activation in humans, domesticated companion animals and livestock animals. Pharmaceutical compositions and methods for using such compounds to treat such disorders are provided, as are methods for using such ligands for receptor localization studies. |
| US08431589B2 |
2,4-diaminopyrimidine derivatives
There are provided compounds of formula I wherein X, R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8 and R9 are as indicated in claim 1 , useful in disorders where ZAP-70 and/or Syk inhibition plays a role or caused by a malfunction of signal cascades connected with FAK. |
| US08431588B2 |
Cyclopropyl polymerase inhibitors
Compounds of formula I: wherein: R2 is hydrogen or C1-C4alkyl; R3 and R4 are hydrogen, —C(═O)R5, or —C(═O)CHR6—NH2; or R3 is hydrogen and R4 is a monophosphate-, diphosphate-, or triphosphate ester; or R3 is hydrogen, —C(═O)CHR5, or —C(═O)CHR6—NH2 and R4 is each R5 is hydrogen, C1-C6alkyl, or C3-C7cycloalkyl; R6 is hydrogen or C1-C6alkyl; R7 is optionally substituted phenyl; naphthyl; or indolyl; R8 and R8′ are hydrogen, C1-C6alkyl, benzyl; or R8 and R8′ combined form C3-C7cycloalkyl; R9 is C1-C6alkyl, benzyl, or optionally substituted phenyl; provided that R2, R3 and R4 are not all hydrogen; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof; pharmaceutical formulations with the compounds I; the use of compounds I, including the compounds of formula I wherein R2, R3 and R4 are all hydrogen, as HCV inhibitors. |
| US08431586B2 |
Quinazoline derivatives and pharmaceutical compositions thereof
The present invention relates to novel quinazoline derivatives with less skin irritation and an excellent action of strongly suppressing scratching behavior, and pharmaceutical compositions containing a quinazoline derivative as an active ingredient. The present invention is directed to the quinazoline derivatives represented by the general formula [1] or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. In the general formula [1], R1 represents hydrogen or the like; R2 represents hydrogen or the like; R3 and R4 are the same or different and represent hydrogen, alkyl, alkoxy or halogen; R5 is combined with R6 to represent alkylene or represents hydrogen, hydroxy, alkyl, phenyl or alkoxy; R6 represents alkyl, cycloalkyl, phenyl, a 5- to 10-membered aromatic heterocyclic group containing one to three heteroatoms selected from the group consisting of a nitrogen atom, an oxygen atom and a sulfur atom, or —N(R6-1)(R6-2). |
| US08431581B2 |
Imidazopyrimidines and uses thereof
The present invention provides a compound of formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable derivative, salt or prodrug thereof. The present invention further provides a method of treatment or prophylaxis of a viral infection in a subject comprising administering to said subject an effective amount of a compound of formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable derivative, salt or prodrug thereof. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound of formula (I) are also provided. |
| US08431574B2 |
Heterocyclic inhibitors of MEK and methods of use thereof
Disclosed are compounds of the Formulas III and IV and pharmaceutically acceptable salts and prodrugs thereof, wherein R1, R2, R7, R8, R9, and R10 are as defined in the specification. Such compounds are MEK inhibitors and useful in the treatment of hyperproliferative diseases, such as cancer and inflammation, in mammals, and inflammatory conditions. Also disclosed are methods of using such compounds in the treatment of hyperproliferative diseases in mammals and pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds. |
| US08431573B2 |
Cyanopyrimidinones
The invention relates to novel cyanopyrimidinones, process for their preparation, and the use thereof for producing medicaments for improving perception, concentration, learning and/or memory. |
| US08431569B2 |
Inhibitors of janus kinases
The instant invention provides for compounds that inhibit the four known mammalian JAK kinases (JAK1, JAK2, JAK3 and TYK2) and PDK1. The invention also provides for compositions comprising such inhibitory compounds and methods of inhibiting the activity of JAK1, JAK2, JAK3 TYK2 and PDK1 by administering the compound to a patient in need of treatment for myeloproliferative disorders or cancer. |
| US08431567B2 |
Substituted oxindole derivatives and their use as vasopressin and/or oxytocin receptor ligands
The present invention relates to novel oxindole derivatives of general formula (I), in which the substituents R1, R2, A, B and Y are as defined in claim 1, medicinal products containing them and use thereof for the prophylaxis and/or treatment of vasopressin-dependent and/or oxytocin-dependent diseases. |
| US08431559B2 |
Treatment of hot flashes
16α,17α-Epoxy-10β-hydroxyestr-4-en-3-one is useful in the treatment of hot flashes by vomeronasal administration. |
| US08431558B2 |
Compositions and methods for modification of biomolecules
The present invention provides modified cycloalkyne compounds; and method of use of such compounds in modifying biomolecules. The present invention features a cycloaddition reaction that can be carried out under physiological conditions. In general, the invention involves reacting a modified cycloalkyne with an azide moiety on a target biomolecule, generating a covalently modified biomolecule. The selectivity of the reaction and its compatibility with aqueous environments provide for its application in vivo (e.g., on the cell surface or intracellularly) and in vitro (e.g., synthesis of peptides and other polymers, production of modified (e.g., labeled) amino acids). |
| US08431552B2 |
Composition for treating metabolic syndrome
The invention relates to a composition that includes a first agent selected from the group consisting of an oxidative phosphorylation inhibitor, an ionophore, and an adenosine 5′-monophosphate-activated Protein kinase (AMPK) activator; a second agent that possesses anti-inflammatory activity; and a third agent that possesses serotonin activity. |
| US08431551B2 |
Nutritional composition made using isolated organic matter
Nutritional compositions, formulations, and intermediates are provided which may be utilized to formulate various sweeteners and other products. The formulations described herein are made from constituents found in soils or fossilized soils. |
| US08431547B2 |
Synthetic genes and genetic constructs
The present invention relates generally to synthetic genes for modifying endogenous gene expression in a cell, tissue or organ of a transgenic organism, in particular a transgenic animal or plant. More particularly, the present invention provides novel synthetic genes and genetic constructs which are capable of repressing delaying or otherwise reducing the expression of an endogenous gene or a target gene in an organism when introduced thereto. |
| US08431544B1 |
Compositions for inhibiting gene expression and uses thereof
The inventors have examined the means for providing more efficacious gene expression blocking compounds. The inventors have discovered new structural features that surprisingly improve the efficacy of gene expression blocking molecules. These features include the presence of multiple 3′ ends and a linker at the 5′ ends. Surprisingly, these features improve the efficacy of the gene expression blocking compounds in a manner that decreases the compound's biologic instability. Even more surprisingly, this effect has been found to be applicable to both DNA and RNA oligonucleotide-based compounds and to have application in traditional antisense and RNAi technologies. |
| US08431543B2 |
Chitosan based polymer conjugate and a method for producing the same
The present invention relates to a conjugate of chitosan and polyamine polymer that is useful for transferring a desired gene medicine into cells, and a method for preparing the same. In particular, the present invention relates to a double conjugate that is prepared by 1 in king poly-L-arginine to low molecular weight chitosan or triple conjugate that is prepared by additionally linking polyethylene glycol (PEG) to the double conjugate, and a method for preparing the same. The chitosan based cationic polymer conjugate of the present invention forms a complex with negatively charged gene medicine such as plasmid DNA and small interfering RNA to efficiently transfer the desired gene medicine into cells with low cytotoxicity. Accordingly, the conjugate can be used as an effective delivery system for in vivo administration of gene medicine. |
| US08431542B2 |
Micrornas that regulate muscle cell proliferation and differentiation
The presently disclosed subject matter provides methods and compositions for modulating gene expression in myocytes. Also provided are cells comprising the compositions of the presently disclosed subject matter. |
| US08431541B2 |
Alpha-amylase inhibitors: the montbretins and uses thereof
Particular naturally occurring glycosylated acyl-flavonols are now shown to be effective mammalian α-amylase inhibitors. Such compounds can be obtained from plants of the genus Crocosmia and the compounds are useful in controlling starch digestion such as for management of glycemia in pre-diabetic or diabetic subjects, for management of obesity or for inhibiting oral caries or plaque formation. |
| US08431538B2 |
HDAC inhibitors and therapeutic methods of using same
Histone deacetylases inhibitors (HDACIs) and compositions containing the same are disclosed. Methods of treating diseases and conditions wherein inhibition of HDAC provides a benefit, like a cancer, a neurodegenerative disorder, a neurological disease, traumatic brain injury, stroke, malaria, an autoimmune disease, autism, and inflammation, also are disclosed. |
| US08431536B2 |
Target for breast cancer therapy and/or diagnosis
The present invention relates to breast cancer and methods for identifying therapeutics and diagnosis. In general, methods for identifying therapeutic agents directed to calcium flow arc disclosed. Also provided arc methods for diagnosis of breast cancer and/or a predisposition to breast cancer and methods of treatment of breast cancer. The methods include identifying therapeutic agents which modulate a CRAC channel and/or a glycoprotein activator of a CRAC channel. Also provided arc diagnostic methods that utilize a CRAC channel and/or a glycoprotein activator of a CRAC channel. |
| US08431533B2 |
GLP-1 fusion peptides, their production and use
The present invention provides fusion peptides having GLP-1 activity and enhanced stability in vivo, in particular resistancy to dipeptidyl peptidase IV. The fusion peptide comprises as component (I) N-terminally a GLP-1 (7-35, 7-36 or 7-37) sequence and as component (II)C-terminally a peptide sequence of at least 9 amino acids or a functional fragment, variant or derivative thereof. Component (II) is preferably a full or partial version of IP2 (intervening peptide 2). A preferred embodiment comprises the sequence GLP-1 (7-35, 36 or 37)/IP2/GLP-1(7-35, 36 or 37) or GLP-2. The fusion peptide may be produced in engineered cells or synthetically and may be used for the preparation of a medicament for treating various diseases or disorders, e.g. diabetes type 1 or 2, apoptosis related diseases or neurodegenerative disorders. |
| US08431531B2 |
Methods for stimulating glucagon-like peptide-1(GLP-1) secretion and treatments comprising same
A protein hydrolysate having a degree of hydrolysis between 1 and 40% and containing between 1 and 70 wt. % of peptides having a molecular weight of less than 500 Da and less than 55 wt. % of peptides or proteins having a molecular weight of more than 5000 Da, on the basis of the total proteinaceous material of the composition, is effective in stimulating secretion of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). In addition, the hydrolysate may have DPP-IV inhibiting activity. The hydrolysate is suitable for the manufacture of a medicament, or food product for prophylaxis and/or treatment of a GLP-1 mediated condition, in particular obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus and an immunological disorder. |
| US08431529B2 |
Bi-dentate compounds as kinase inhibitors
The present disclosure provides compound having the general structure A or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof: Het-L-P (A) wherein Het is an aromatic moiety comprising a heterocyclic structure mimicking ATP, P is a docking site derived peptide or a docking site peptide mimetic, and L is a linking moiety, wherein L links the ATP mimetic to the docking site peptide moiety. The compounds having the general structure A can serve as inhibitors of kinases, such as the kinases JNK, Erk and p38. |
| US08431526B2 |
Compositions and methods for prion decontamination
The invention relates to compositions and methods for prion degradation, decontamination or disinfection. The composition comprises an oxidizing agent, one or more proteases and a surfactant such as an ionic surfactant/detergent. The method comprises contacting a prion contaminated entity with a prion-degrading composition comprising an effective amount of an oxidizing agent, an effective amount of at least one protease, and an effective amount of a surfactant. The components of the composition may be contacted with a prion-contaminated entity sequentially or simultaneously using an aqueous composition. Typically at least two different proteases are used for optimal efficacy. Preferably the oxidizing agent comprises peracetyl ions or a source thereof. The invention also relates to kits comprising the various reagents. |
| US08431524B2 |
Peptide antagonist of interleukin-15 activity
The present invention is related to the field of molecular immunology, particularly to a peptide derived from the sequence of interleukine-15 (IL-15), wherein said peptide was optimized to inhibit the biological activity of this molecule. In the present invention, it is shown that this peptide inhibits IL-15-induced T cell proliferation, Tumor Necrosis Factor α (TNFα) induction and the expression of IL-8 and IL-6 by the IL-15 receptor α subunit (IL-15Rα), all these effects mediated by the binding of the peptide to the IL-15Rα. The invention is also related to the use of the peptide to treat pathologies where the abnormal expression of IL-15 or IL-15Rα is related to the course of the disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and prostate cancer. |
| US08431523B2 |
Oligomeric biosurfactants in dermatocosmetic compositions
Oligomeric acylated biosurfactants (“OABs”) having low critical micelle concentrations of from about 1.0 ppm to about 200 ppm, preferably less than about 50 ppm, in an aqueous solution of Minimal Essential Media that can lower the surface tension in the aqueous MEM environment to less than about 50 dynes/cm2 and have the ability to increase metabolic soluble proteins and/or increase synthesis of extracellular skin matrix proteins and/or increase rates of cell turnover while at the same time exhibiting comparatively low toxicity—preferably, an LD50 of greater 200 ppm in 37 year-old female fibroblast cells. Another aspect of the present invention is directed to the use of OABs in formulations that are topically-applied, by which is meant the formulation is placed in direct contact with the skin, hair and nails as well as mucosa of the eyes, ears, nose, mouth, anus and vagina. |
| US08431521B2 |
Site-specific chemical modification of proteins at their N-termini, enabling the formation of homogeneous adducts
Site-specific modifications of proteins at their N-termini are provided. In particular, a chemical modification of proteins at their N-termini via a transamination reaction to form homogeneous adducts such as, the corresponding oxime derivatives is provided. Methods of making and using the adducts in radio-labeling, molecular imaging applications, and treatment of disorders such as cancer, Crohn's disease, arthritis, atherothrombosis and plaque rupture are also provided. |
| US08431520B2 |
Perfume systems
The present application relates to perfume raw materials, perfume delivery systems and consumer products comprising such perfume raw materials and/or such perfume delivery systems, as well as processes for making and using such perfume raw materials, perfume delivery systems and consumer products. Such perfume raw materials and compositions, including the delivery systems, disclosed herein expand the perfume communities options as such perfume raw materials can provide variations on character and such compositions can provide desired odor profiles. |
| US08431517B2 |
Surface corrosion protection detergent compositions containing polyvalent metal compounds and high levels of low foaming, nonionic surfactants
Automatic dishwashing detergent compositions and compositions of matter, having polyvalent metal compounds and high levels of low-foaming, nonionic surfactants, are provided for protecting glassware from corrosion. |
| US08431515B2 |
Tape-shaped oxide superconductor
A tape-shaped oxide superconductor includes a 15 to 100 nm-thick Ce—Gd—O-based oxide layer (Ce:Gd=40:60 to 70:30 molar ratio) and a 100 nm-thick Ce—Zr—O-based oxide layer (Ce:Zr=50:50 molar ratio) as first and second intermediate layers are formed by MOD on an Ni-base alloy substrate having a half value width (FWHM:Δφ) of 6.5 degrees. A 150 nm-thick CeO2 oxide layer as a third intermediate layer is formed on the second intermediate layer by RF sputtering. A 1 μm-thick YBCO superconducting layer is formed by TFA-MOD on the three-layer structure. In the tape-shaped oxide superconductor, the Δφ values of the first to third intermediate layers are (6.0 to 6.5) degrees, (6.0 to 6.6) degrees, and (6.0 to 6.6) degrees, respectively, and the Jc value of the YBCO superconducting layer in liquid nitrogen is 1.8 to 2.2 MA/cm2. |
| US08431509B2 |
Structure for molecular separations
A process of producing a structure for molecular separations includes providing a plurality of template materials. The template materials are selected from biomolecules, biopolymers, polymers, or combinations thereof. A sieve material, suitable for producing a structure for molecular separations, is provided around the template materials. The template materials are positioned in an arrangement for leaving pores suitable for molecular separations. The template materials are removed to leave pores in the sieve material and produce the structure suitable for molecular separations. |
| US08431507B2 |
Process for regenerating a catalyst
A process for regenerating a fixed bed of Fischer-Tropsch catalyst particles, of which at least 40 wt % of the catalyst particles have a size of at least 1 mm, in situ in a Fischer-Tropsch reactor tube. The process comprises the steps of: (i) optionally oxidizing the catalyst at a temperature between 200 and 400° C.; (ii) oxidizing the catalyst at a temperature above 580° C. and below 670° C.; and (iii) reducing the catalyst with hydrogen or a hydrogen comprising gas. This process may be preceded by a step in which Fischer-Tropsch product is removed from the catalyst. |
| US08431506B2 |
Biotemplated inorganic materials
A method of making a metal oxide nanoparticle comprising contacting an aqueous solution of a metal salt with an oxidant. The method is safe, environmentally benign, and uses readily available precursors. The size of the nanoparticles, which can be as small as 1 nm or smaller, can be controlled by selecting appropriate conditions. The method is compatible with biologically derived scaffolds, such as virus particles chosen to bind a desired material. The resulting nanoparticles can be porous and provide advantageous properties as a catalyst. |
| US08431502B2 |
Silicate glasses having low seed concentration
A fusion formable and ion exchangeable silicate glass having a seed concentration of less than about 1 seed/cm3. |
| US08431500B2 |
Lead-containing space glass, its production and its use
The space glass has a composition, in wt. % based on oxide content, of: SiO2, 5-65; B2O3, 0-40; Al2O3, 0-12; PbO, 25-50; Na2O 0-8; K2O, 0-20; Σ alkali metal oxides, at least 0.25; and at least 0.1 wt. % of a total amount of three or more doping agents selected from CeO2, MoO3, Bi2O3, WO3, Ag2O, SnO2, Sb2O3 and As2O3. In addition, it contains one or more of the following doping agents in the following amounts: at most 1 wt. %, CeO2; at most 0.02 wt. %, As2O3; at most 0.3 wt. %, Sb2O3; and at most 0.5 wt. %, SnO2. Light-weight optical systems for space are made from it, because of its high radiation resistance. A preferred process for making space glass includes melting the oxide starting ingredients at 1050° C. to 1200° C. to form a melt and refining the melt at 1230° C. to 1350° C. |
| US08431494B2 |
Film formation method and film formation apparatus
A film formation method of forming a silicon oxide film on a surface of an object to be processed in a process chamber includes absorbing a seed gas comprising a silane-based gas on the surface of the object to be processed by supplying the seed gas into the process chamber, forming a silicon film having an impurity by supplying a silicon-containing gas as a material gas, and an addition gas including the impurity into the process chamber, and oxidizing the silicon film to convert the silicon film into the silicon oxide film. Accordingly, the silicon oxide film having the high density and the high stress is formed on the surface of the object to be processed. |
| US08431493B2 |
Replaceable substrate masking on carrier and method for processing a substrate
A holding device adapted for holding a mask and a substrate during processing is described. The holding device includes a substrate carrier adapted for carrying the substrate; and a mask for masking the substrate, wherein the mask is releasably connected to the substrate carrier; wherein the substrate carrier or the mask has at least one recess adapted for receiving a cover for covering the substrate carrier during deposition. |
| US08431492B2 |
Memory cell that includes a sidewall collar for pillar isolation and methods of forming the same
In a first embodiment, a method of forming a memory cell is provided that includes (a) forming one or more layers of steering element material above a substrate; (b) etching a portion of the steering element material to form a pillar of steering element material having an exposed sidewall; (c) forming a sidewall collar along the exposed sidewall of the pillar; and (d) forming a memory cell using the pillar. Numerous other aspects are provided. |
| US08431490B2 |
Method of chemical mechanical polishing a substrate with polishing composition adapted to enhance silicon oxide removal
A method for chemical mechanical polishing of a substrate is provided, comprising: providing a substrate, wherein the substrate comprises silicon oxide; providing a chemical mechanical polishing composition, comprising, as initial components: water; an abrasive; and a substance according to formula I wherein R1, R2 and R3 are each independently selected from a C1-4 alky group; providing a chemical mechanical polishing pad with a polishing surface; moving the polishing surface relative to the substrate; dispensing the chemical mechanical polishing composition onto the polishing surface; and, abrading at least a portion of the substrate to polish the substrate; wherein the substance according to formula I included in the chemical mechanical polishing composition provides an enhanced silicon oxide removal rate and an improved polishing defectivity performance; and, wherein at least some of the silicon oxide is removed from the substrate. |
| US08431488B2 |
Damascene process using cleaning solution
A cleaning solution is provided. The cleaning solution includes a fluorine containing compound, an inorganic acid, a chelating agent containing a carboxylic group and water for balance. The content of the fluorine containing compound is 0.01-0.5 wt % of. The content of the inorganic acid is 1-5 wt %. |
| US08431486B2 |
Interconnect structure for improved time dependent dielectric breakdown
The present disclosure provides a method of forming an interconnect to an electrical device. In one embodiment, the method of forming an interconnect includes providing a device layer on a substrate, wherein the device layer comprises at least one electrical device, an intralevel dielectric over the at least one electrical device, and a contact that is in electrical communication with the at least one electrical device. An interconnect metal layer is formed on the device layer, and a tantalum-containing etch mask is formed on a portion of the interconnect metal layer. The interconnect metal layer is etched to provide a trapezoid shaped interconnect in communication with the at least one electrical device. The trapezoid shaped interconnect has a first surface that is in contact with the device layer with a greater width than a second surface of the trapezoid shaped interconnect that is in contact with the tantalum-containing etch mask. |
| US08431483B2 |
Methods of forming electrically conductive plugs and method of forming resistance variable elements
A method of forming an electrically conductive plug includes providing an opening within electrically insulative material over a node location on a substrate. An electrically conductive material is formed within the opening and elevationally over the insulative material. Some of the conductive material is removed effective to recess an outermost surface of the conductive material to from about 100 Angstroms to about 200 Angstroms from an outermost surface of the insulative material after said removing of some of the conductive material. After removing some of the conductive material, remaining volume of the opening over the conductive material is overfilled with an electrically conductive metal material different from that of the conductive material. The metal material is polished effective to form an electrically conductive plug within the opening comprising the conductive material and the metal material. Other aspects and implementations are contemplated. |
| US08431478B2 |
Solder cap bump in semiconductor package and method of manufacturing the same
A semiconductor package with improved height uniformity of solder cap bumps therein is disclosed. In one embodiment, the semiconductor package includes a semiconductor substrate comprising a plurality of pads spacedly disposed on a top surface of the substrate, and a passivation layer formed on top of the pads, wherein a plurality of pad openings are created to expose at least a portion of the pads; a plurality of solder cap bumps formed at the pad openings of the passivation layer; and a carrier substrate having a plurality of bond pads electrically connected to the solder caps of the solder cap bumps on the semiconductor substrate. The solder cap bump includes a solder cap on top of a conductive pillar, and a patternable layer can be coated and patterned on a top surface of the conductive pillar to define an area for the solder ball to be deposited. The deposited solder ball can be reflowed to form the solder cap. |
| US08431477B2 |
Method for joining aligned discrete optical elements
A method for joining aligned discrete optical elements by which the optical elements can be joined in the aligned state. A thermal connection having long-term stability can be produced at little expense and with high positioning accuracy. Surface regions to be joined can be provided with at least one thin metallic layer by the method for joining aligned discrete optical elements. The surface regions are subsequently wetted using a liquid solder free of flux in a contactless dosed manner. The solder is applied to the surface regions to be joined via a nozzle using a pressurized gas stream. |
| US08431472B2 |
Semiconductor device fabrication using gate substitution
Methods is provided for forming a CMOS device. The method includes providing a substrate and depositing a gate stack on the substrate. The gate stack includes a gate dielectric and a dummy gate including polycrystalline silicon (polySi). The method also includes depositing a dielectric layer on the substrate after depositing the gate stack on the substrate. The method further includes substituting the dummy gate with a metal without first removing the dummy gate. |
| US08431471B2 |
Method for integrating a non-volatile memory (NVM)
A feature is formed in the NVM isolation region during the patterning and etching of an NVM device and a logic device such that the feature is of substantially equal height to the logic device and is well-defined so that it does not cause defect signals. A first conductive layer is formed over a substrate. The first conductive layer is patterned to expose at least a portion of the substrate in an NVM region and at least a portion of an isolation region. An NVM dielectric stack is formed over the first conductive layer, the exposed substrate, and the exposed isolation region, and a second conductive layer is formed over the NVM dielectric stack. The first and second conductive layers and the NVM dielectric stack are patterned to form a first gate and a second gate of an NVM cell in the NVM region and a feature over the isolation region. The feature comprises a portion of the first conductive layer, a portion of the NVM dielectric stack adjacent a first sidewall of the portion of the first conductive layer, and a portion of the second conductive layer adjacent the portion of the NVM dielectric stack. |
| US08431466B2 |
Method of forming finned semiconductor devices with trench isolation
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device structure, such as a FinFET device structure, is provided. The method begins by providing a substrate comprising a bulk semiconductor material, a first conductive fin structure formed from the bulk semiconductor material, and a second conductive fin structure formed from the bulk semiconductor material. The first conductive fin structure and the second conductive fin structure are separated by a gap. Next, spacers are formed in the gap and adjacent to the first conductive fin structure and the second conductive fin structure. Thereafter, an etching step etches the bulk semiconductor material, using the spacers as an etch mask, to form an isolation trench in the bulk semiconductor material. A dielectric material is formed in the isolation trench, over the spacers, over the first conductive fin structure, and over the second conductive fin structure. Thereafter, at least a portion of the dielectric material and at least a portion of the spacers are etched away to expose an upper section of the first conductive fin structure and an upper section of the second conductive fin structure, while preserving the dielectric material in the isolation trench. Following these steps, the fabrication of the devices is completed in a conventional manner. |
| US08431465B2 |
Semiconductor device and method for fabricating the same
Provided are a semiconductor device and a fabricating method thereof. The semiconductor device includes a substrate having a trench that defines an active region, an isolation layer that buries the trench, a pro-oxidant region formed at an upper corner portion of the trench to enhance oxidation at the upper corner portion of the trench when a gate insulation layer is grown on the active region, and a gate conductive layer formed on the gate insulation layer. |
| US08431463B2 |
Capacitor contact formed concurrently with bond pad metallization
A method is disclosed for passivating and contacting a capacitor in an IC above a top level of interconnect metallization, without adding process steps. Passivation is accomplished by a dielectric layer, part of the IC protective overcoat, deposited directly on the capacitor, overlapping the electrode edges. Contact is made to the top electrode of the capacitor by etching small capacitor vias during a bond pad via etch process, followed by depositing and patterning bond pad metal in the capacitor vias to connect the top electrode to other circuit elements in the IC. The top electrode thickness is increased to accommodate the bond pad via etch process. |
| US08431453B2 |
Plasma doping to reduce dielectric loss during removal of dummy layers in a gate structure
The embodiments of methods and structures disclosed herein provide mechanisms of performing doping an inter-level dielectric film, ILD0, surrounding the gate structures with a dopant to reduce its etch rates during the processes of removing dummy gate electrode layer and/or gate dielectric layer for replacement gate technologies. The ILD0 film may be doped with a plasma doping process (PLAD) or an ion beam process. Post doping anneal is optional. |
| US08431452B2 |
TFT-LCD array substrate and manufacturing method thereof
A liquid crystal display (LCD) array substrate and a manufacturing method thereof are provided. The manufacturing method comprises depositing a semiconductor layer, a doped semiconductor layer and a metal film for source and drain electrodes sequentially on a base substrate and then forming a data line, a source electrode, a drain electrode and a thin film transistor (TFT) channel region by a first patterning process; depositing a first insulating film and a gate metal film sequentially and then forming a gate line and a gate electrode by a second patterning process and forming an insulating layer via hole in the first insulating layer above the drain electrode; depositing a transparent conductive film and then forming a pixel electrode by a third patterning process; and forming a second insulating layer. |
| US08431450B1 |
Methods and apparatus for LDMOS transistors
An LDMOS transistor includes a gate including a conductive material over an insulator material, a source including a first impurity region and a second impurity region, a third impurity region, and a drain including a fourth impurity region and a fifth impurity region. The first impurity region is of a first type, and the second impurity region is of an opposite second type. The third impurity region extends from the source region under the gate and is of the first type. The fourth impurity region is of the second type, the fifth impurity region is of the second type, and the fourth impurity region impinges the third impurity region. |
| US08431448B2 |
Organic transistor element, and method of manufacturing the same by concurrently doping an organic semiconductor layer and wet etching an electrode provided on the organic semiconductor layer
In a method for manufacturing an organic transistor element, an electrode is subjected to wet etching into a predetermined pattern on an organic semiconductor layer. In the process for performing wet etching on the electrode so as to obtain a predetermined pattern, an etching liquid containing a dopant of the organic semiconductor layer is used to perform wet etching on the electrode and, simultaneously, the organic semiconductor layer is doped with the dopant. |
| US08431445B2 |
Multi-component power structures and methods for forming the same
In one embodiment, a method for forming a multi-component power structure for use in electrically propelled vehicles may include constraining a parent material system between a power component and a thermal device. The parent material system may include a low temperature material having a relatively low melting point and a high temperature material having a relatively high melting point. The relatively low melting point may be less than the relatively high melting point. The parent material system can be heated to a melting temperature greater than the relatively low melting point and lower than the relatively high melting point to diffuse the low temperature material into the high temperature material. The parent material system can be solidified to form a transient liquid phase bond that is electrically and thermally conductive. |
| US08431444B2 |
Epoxy encapsulating and lamination adhesive and method of making same
An adhesive includes an epoxy resin and a hardener. The hardener includes trioxdiamine, diaminodicyclohexylmethane, toluene diamine, and bisphenol-A dianhydride. |
| US08431443B2 |
Metallic solderability preservation coating on metal part of semiconductor package to prevent oxide
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to metallic solderability preservation coating on connectors of semiconductor package to prevent oxide. Singulated semiconductor packages can have contaminants, such as oxides, on exposed metal areas of the connectors. Oxidation typically occurs on the exposed metal areas when the semiconductor packages are not stored in appropriate environments. Copper oxides prevent the connectors from soldering well. An anti-tarnish solution of the present invention is used to coat the connectors during sawing, after sawing, or both of a semiconductor array to preserve metallic solderability. The anti-tarnish solution is a metallic solution, which advantageously allows the semiconductor packages to not need be assembled immediately after fabrication. |
| US08431441B2 |
Semiconductor package and method of manufacturing same
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor package includes placing a semiconductor chip in a recess provided on a surface of a supporting body so that a part of the semiconductor chip projects from the recess; forming a resin part on the surface of the supporting body, the resin part encapsulating the projecting part of the semiconductor chip; removing the supporting body; and forming an interconnection structure electrically connected to the semiconductor chip by using the resin part as a part of the base body of the semiconductor package. |
| US08431440B2 |
Chip manufacturing method
A substrate table used for manufacturing a chip is provided. The substrate table includes a substrate stage, a substrate placement surface formed on the substrate stage, and on which a substrate is placed, and a guiding member that can project and retract from the substrate placement surface. The guiding member positions the substrate when the guiding member is at a projected position abutting an edge portion of the substrate placed on the substrate placement surface, and the guiding member retracts at a time of applying a tape to the substrate. |
| US08431439B2 |
Thin film laminated body manufacturing apparatus and method
A strip-shape flexible substrate is transported over a long horizontal distance, with its width extending in the vertical direction, the position of the substrate in the vertical direction is maintained with high precision, and the films are deposited onto its surface. When depositing the thin films to manufacture a thin film laminated body, at least one pair of gripping rollers arranged in at least one space between film deposition chambers, and which grasps an upper-side edge portion of the substrate with its width oriented in the vertical direction, are installed such that the rotation direction of the gripping rollers is diagonally upward, at an angle relative to the direction of transport of the substrate, and by changing the force with which the gripping rollers grasp the substrate, a force lifts the substrate, and the height of the substrate can be controlled. |
| US08431435B2 |
Edge connect wafer level stacking
A method of making a stacked microelectronic package by forming a microelectronic assembly by stacking a first subassembly including a plurality of microelectronic elements onto a second subassembly including a plurality of microelectronic elements, at least some of the plurality of microelectronic elements of said first subassembly and said second subassembly having traces that extend to respective edges of the microelectronic elements, then forming notches in the microelectronic assembly so as to expose the traces of at least some of the plurality of microelectronic elements, then forming leads at the side walls of the notches, the leads being in electrical communication with at least some of the traces and dicing the assembly into packages. Additional embodiments include methods for creating stacked packages using substrates and having additional traces that extend to both the top and bottom of the package. |
| US08431434B2 |
Derivatized fullerene-based dopants for organic semiconductors
Methods for producing p-doped organic semiconductor material with a fullerene derivative having at least one electron-withdrawing substituent covalently attached thereto, and semiconductor compositions prepared thereby are provided. Also provided are electronic devices, such as transistors, solar-cells, illuminating devices, OLEDs and detectors, comprised of these p-doped organic semiconductor materials. |
| US08431433B2 |
Methods of providing semiconductor layers from amic acid salts
A semiconductor layer and device can be provided using a method including thermally converting an aromatic, non-polymeric amic acid salt to a corresponding arylene diimide. The semiconducting thin films can be used in various articles including thin-film transistor devices that can be incorporated into a variety of electronic devices. In this manner, the arylene diimide need not be coated but is generated in situ from a solvent-soluble, easily coated aromatic, non-polymeric amic acid salt at relatively lower temperature because the cation portion of the salt acts as an internal catalyst. |
| US08431431B2 |
Structures with through vias passing through a substrate comprising a planar insulating layer between semiconductor layers
A through via contains a conductor (244, 262) passing through a substrate (140). The substrate can be SOI or some other substrate containing two semiconductor layers (140.1, 140.2) on opposite sides of an insulating layer (140B). The through via includes two constituent vias (144.1, 144.2) formed from respective different sides of the substrate by processes stopping on the insulating layer (140B). Due to the insulating layer acting as a stop layer, high control over the constituent vias' depths is achieved. Each constituent via is shorter than the through via, so via formation is facilitated. The conductor is formed by separate depositions of conductive material into the constituent vias from each side of the substrate. From each side, the conductor is deposited to a shallower depth than the through-via depth, so the deposition is facilitated. Other embodiments are also provided. |
| US08431429B2 |
Backside illuminated imaging sensor with reinforced pad structure
A method of fabricating a backside illuminated imaging sensor that includes a device layer, a metal stack, and an opening is disclosed. The device layer has an imaging array formed in a front side of the device layer, where the imaging array is adapted to receive light from a back side of the device layer. The metal stack is coupled to the front side of the device layer and includes at least one metal interconnect layer having a metal pad. The opening extends from the back side of the device layer to the metal pad to expose the metal pad for wire bonding. The method includes depositing a film on the back side of the device layer and within the opening, then etching the film to form a frame within the opening to structurally reinforce the metal pad. |
| US08431428B2 |
Optical device wafer processing method and laser processing apparatus
An optical device wafer processing method including a laser processed groove forming step of applying a laser beam for performing ablation to the front side or back side of a substrate of an optical device wafer along streets, thereby forming a laser processed groove as a break start point on the front side or back side of the substrate along each street, and a wafer dividing step of applying an external force to the optical device wafer after performing the laser processed groove forming step to thereby break the wafer along each laser processed groove, thereby dividing the wafer into individual optical devices. In performing the laser processed groove forming step, an etching gas atmosphere for etching a modified substance produced by applying the laser beam to the substrate is generated, whereby an etching gas in the etching gas atmosphere is converted into a plasma by the application of the laser beam to thereby etch away the modified substance. |
| US08431423B2 |
Reflective substrate for LEDS
An underfill formation technique for LEDs molds a reflective underfill material to encapsulate LED dies mounted on a submount wafer while forming a reflective layer of the underfill material over the submount wafer. The underfill material is then hardened, such as by curing. The cured underfill material over the top of the LED dies is removed using microbead blasting while leaving the reflective layer over the submount surface. The exposed growth substrate is then removed from all the LED dies, and a phosphor layer is molded over the exposed LED surface. A lens is then molded over the LEDs and over a portion of the reflective layer. The submount wafer is then singulated. The reflective layer increases the efficiency of the LED device by reducing light absorption by the submount without any additional processing steps. |
| US08431420B2 |
Manufacturing method of ultrasonic probe and ultrasonic probe
The manufacturing yield of semiconductor devices (CMUTs) is improved. Before a polyimide film serving as a protective film is formed, a membrane is repeatedly vibrated to evaluate the breakdown voltage between an upper electrode and a lower electrode, and the upper electrode of a defective CMUT cell whose breakdown voltage between the upper electrode and the lower electrode is reduced due to the repeated vibrations of the membrane is removed in advance to cut off the electrical connection with other normal CMUT cells. By this means, in a block RB or a channel RCH including the recovered CMUT cell RC, reduction in the breakdown voltage between the upper electrode and the lower electrode after the repeated vibrations of the membrane is prevented. |
| US08431414B2 |
Methods and compositions for directed microwave chemistry
The present invention concerns a novel means by which chemical preparations can be made. Reactions can be accelerated on special cartridges using microwave energy. The chips contain materials that efficiently absorb microwave energy causing chemical reaction rate increases. The invention is important in many chemical transformations including those used in protein chemistry, in nucleic acid chemistry, in analytical chemistry, and in the polymerase chain reaction. |
| US08431411B2 |
Methods for detecting vitamin D metabolites by mass spectrometry
Provided are methods of detecting the presence or amount of a vitamin D metabolite in a sample using mass spectrometry. The methods generally comprise ionizing a vitamin D metabolite in a sample and detecting the amount of the ion to determine the presence or amount of the vitamin D metabolite in the sample. Also provided are methods to detect the presence or amount of two or more vitamin D metabolites in a single assay. |
| US08431410B2 |
Amine-N-oxide redox indicators for fluorimetric determination of analytes
A reagent for detecting an analyte by a redox reaction and a fluorimetric determination is disclosed. The reagent comprises a compound of formula (I): wherein R1 and R2 are each independently selected from R, (CH2CH2O)mR, COR, COOR, and OCOR; each R3 is independently selected from NO2, CN, R, OR, OCOR, COOR, SR, and halogen; R is H or C1-C4 alkyl, where alkyl is optionally substituted with one or more functional group independently selected from the group consisting of halogen, OR, SR, NR2, COOR, CONR2, SO3R and salts thereof, and PO(OR)3 and salts thereof; m is an integer from 1 to 20; and n is 1, 2, or 3. The reagent may further comprise an enzyme or a coenzyme for reducing or oxidizing an analyte. |
| US08431408B2 |
Handheld diabetes managing device with light pipe for enhanced illumination
A handheld diabetes management device for providing enhanced illumination includes a housing with an access port and a light aperture. The housing further includes a coupling member on an inner surface thereof. Furthermore, the device includes a measurement engine housed within the housing and communicating with the access port for analyzing body fluid disposed on a dosing area of a diabetes test element. Also, the device includes a circuit board communicating with the measurement engine. The device further includes a light source mounted to the circuit board and a light pipe coupled to the housing via the coupling member. The light pipe is disposed adjacent the light source to receive light from the light source travelling in a first direction. The light pipe redirects the light along a second direction to be emitted out of the housing through the light aperture toward the dosing area of the diabetes test element. |
| US08431403B2 |
Method for detecting analytes
Provided is method for detecting an analyte, wherein the analyte is labelled with one or more labels relatable to the analyte which are suitable for optical detection, which method comprises: a) applying an oscillating voltage having a first frequency across the labelled analyte and simultaneously performing an optical detection method on the labelled analyte to obtain data from the one or more labels; b) applying an oscillating voltage having a second frequency across the labelled analyte and simultaneously performing an optical detection method on the labelled analyte to obtain data from the one or more labels; c) determining the identity and/or quantity of the analyte from the data obtained in step (a) and step (b). |
| US08431399B2 |
Method to restore cartilaginous phenotype of chondrocytes after cultured and expanded in vitro
The present invention provides a method for restoring native chondrocyte phenotype and functions of, and/or increasing type II collagen as well as aggrecan mRNA expression levels and GAG accumulation level in dedifferentiated chondrocytes which have been subcultured and expanded in vitro, which comprising culturing the said dedifferentiated chondrocytes in vitro with a medium comprising type II collagen, or its biologically active peptide fragment(s) or analogs with or without growth factor(s), wherein the type II collagen or its biologically active peptide fragment(s) or analogs are effective to restore chondrocyte phenotype and functions of, and/or to increase type II collagen and aggrecan expression levels and GAG accumulation level in the said dedifferentiated chondrocytes. |
| US08431398B2 |
Methods for modulating the proliferation and differentiation potential of stem cells and progenitor cells
Modulators of TRIM-NHL proteins and their use for modulating the proliferation and differentiation potential of stem cells and progenitor cells. Inhibitors of TRIM-NHL proteins, e.g. TRIM32, are useful for stem cell maintenance in vitro and in vivo. Assay methods for identifying TRIM-NHL protein modulators make use of the E3 ligase activity of TRIM32 or its interaction with Argonaute-1. |
| US08431397B2 |
Differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells to cardiac progenitor cells that promote cardiac repair
A method for treating a subject afflicted with a cardiac disorder, in vivo, comprises (i) inducing differentiation of a progenitor cell, in vitro, to a cardiogenic cell; and (ii) administering a therapeutically effective amount of the cardiogenic cell of step (i) to the subject, thereby treating the cardiac disorder in the subject. This invention further provides related articles of manufacture and methods. |
| US08431393B2 |
AIMP2-DX2 gene and its uses
The present invention relates to a variant of AIMP2 lacking exon 2 gene, named as AIMP2-DX2 gene, which is specifically expressed in cancer cells. The AIMP2-DX2 gene and siRNA targeting AIMP2-DX2 can be successfully used in the development of diagnosis and treatment of cancer. |
| US08431392B2 |
Shortened Alk1 regulatory fragment
Regulatory elements for controlling expression of transgenes in angiogenic tissue are provided. One embodiment provides an isolated nucleic acid having at least 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 97%, 99% or 100% sequence identity to SEQ ID NO:1, or a fragment thereof that causes expression of a transgene in angiogenic tissue. Vectors containing SEQ ID NO:1 and one or more transgenes are also provided. A preferred vector is an adenovirus vector. The transgene can encode a cytotoxin, pro-apoptotic polypeptide, or a therapeutic polypeptide. SEQ ID NO:1 regulates the expression of the transgene such that the transgene is only expressed in angiogenic tissue including, but not limited to arteries feeding ischemic tissues. Methods of using vectors containing SEQ ID NO:1 are also provided. |
| US08431389B2 |
Portable high gain fluorescence detection system
An instrument for fluorometric assays in liquid samples is disclosed. The instrument may include multiple optical channels for monitoring a first fluorophore associated with a target analyte and a second fluorophore associated with a control. The disclosed instrument finds utility in any number of applications, including microfluidic molecular biological assays based on PCR amplification of target nucleic acids and fluorometric assays in general. |
| US08431385B2 |
Apparatus and method for maintaining and/or restoring viability of organs
An organ perfusion apparatus and method monitor, sustain and/or restore viability of organs and preserve organs for storage and/or transport. Other apparatus include an organ transporter, an organ cassette and an organ diagnostic device. The method includes perfusing the organ at hypothermic and/or normothermic temperatures, preferably after hypothermic organ flushing for organ transport and/or storage. The method can be practiced with prior or subsequent static or perfusion hypothermic exposure of the organ. Organ viability is restored by restoring high energy nucleotide (e.g., ATP) levels by perfusing the organ with a medical fluid, such as an oxygenated cross-linked hemoglobin-based bicarbonate medical fluid, at normothermic temperatures. In perfusion, organ perfusion pressure is preferably controlled in response to a sensor disposed in an end of tubing placed in the organ, by a pneumatically pressurized medical fluid reservoir, providing perfusion pressure fine tuning, overpressurization prevention and emergency flow cut-off. In the hypothermic mode, the organ is perfused with a medical fluid, preferably a simple crystalloid solution containing antioxidants, intermittently or in slow continuous flow. The medical fluid may be fed into the organ from an intermediary tank having a low pressure head to avoid organ overpressurization. Preventing overpressurization prevents or reduces damage to vascular endothelial lining and to organ tissue in general. Viability of the organ may be automatically monitored, preferably by monitoring characteristics of the medical fluid perfusate. The perfusion process can be automatically controlled using a control program. |
| US08431384B2 |
Stable protein storage and stable nucleic acid storage in recoverable form
The invention provides compositions and methods for storage of biomolecules. The biomolecules are stored via absorption to a substrate. Absorbed biomolecules can be eluted or recovered from the substrate at a future time, and optionally be subjected to a subsequent analysis or application. Biomolecules absorbed to a substrate for storage may also optionally be preserved, i.e., the absorbed biomolecule is resistant to or resists degradation. |
| US08431376B2 |
Bacterial replication systems and methods
Reconstituted bacterial replication assemblies and methods for their use are provided. |
| US08431372B2 |
Fermentation method using a magnesium compound containing oxygen
This invention is directed to methods of obtaining a high quantity of desired acid salt in a form that is relatively easy to recover. Particularly desired as a recovery product is an organic acid. A salt form of the desired organic acid is formed that is relatively high in concentration and that is relatively soluble in an aqueous medium. The method includes a step of fermenting a fermentable carbon source in the fermentation medium in the presence of a magnesium compound containing oxygen. |
| US08431364B2 |
Biopolymer produced by fermenting the extract of soybean with folic acid and a composition containing thereof
Provided are a folyl extract of fermented soybean (EFS) produced by fermenting a culture including a folic acid and soybean extract by using a microorganism, and a composition including the folyl EFS. The folyl EFS has an anti-histamine effect, an anti-allergic effect, a calcium-absorption-promotion effect, a bone-growth-promotion effect, a cell growth promotion effect, a collagen biosynthesis promotion effect, a wrinkle improvement effect, and an UV-induced cell damage inhibition effect. Accordingly, the folyl EFS can be used in a skin external application or cosmetic composition, a health supplement food composition, a feed composition, and a pharmaceutical composition. |
| US08431363B2 |
Polynucleotides encoding therapeutic inhibitors of PAI-1
The invention relates to mammalian PAI-I ligands and modulators. In particular, the invention relates to polypeptides, polypeptide compositions and polynucleotides that encode polypeptides that are ligands and/or modulators of PAI-I. The invention also relates to polyligands that are homopolyligands or heteropolyligands that modulate PAI-I activity. The invention also relates to ligands and polyligands localized to a region of a cell. The invention also relates to localization tethers and promoter sequences that can be used to provide spatial control of the PAI-I ligands and polyligands. The invention also relates to inducible gene switches that can be used to provide temporal control of the PAI-I ligands and polyligands. The invention also relates to methods of treating or preventing atherosclerosis. The invention also relates to methods of treating or preventing fibrosis. |
| US08431360B2 |
Methods and compositions for improving sugar transport, mixed sugar fermentation, and production of biofuels
The present disclosure relates to host cells containing a recombinant polynucleotide encoding a polypeptide where the polypeptide transports cellodextrin into the cell. The present disclosure further relates to methods of increasing transport of cellodextrin into a cell, methods of increasing growth of a cell on a medium containing cellodextrin, methods of co-fermenting cellulose-derived and hemicellulose-derived sugars, and methods of making hydrocarbons or hydrocarbon derivatives by providing a host cell containing a recombinant polynucleotide encoding a polypeptide where the polypeptide transports cellodextrin into the cell. The present disclosure relates to host cells containing a recombinant polynucleotide encoding a polypeptide where the polypeptide transports a pentose into the cell, methods of increasing transport of a pentose into a cell, methods of increasing growth of a cell on a medium containing pentose sugars, and methods of making hydrocarbons or hydrocarbon derivatives by providing a host cell containing a recombinant polynucleotide encoding a polypeptide where the polypeptide transports a pentose into the cell. |
| US08431359B2 |
Nucleic acids encoding polypeptide inhibitors of human plasmin derived from the Kunitz domains
This invention features novel proteins that are homologous to the first Kunitz domain (K1) of lipoprotein-associated coagulation inhibitor (LACI), and are capable of inhibiting plasmin and nucleic acids encoding these proteins. The invention also features the use of such proteins in therapeutic, diagnostic, and clinical methods. |
| US08431345B2 |
Method for determination of progression risk of glaucoma
A method of determining the presence or the absence of a glaucoma risk, including the steps of detecting in vitro an allele and/or a genotype of a single nucleotide polymorphism which is located on a 31st base of a base sequence, in a sample from a subject, wherein the base sequence is at least one base sequence selected from the group consisting of base sequences shown in SEQ ID NOs: 203 to 752 or a complementary sequence thereto (step A), and comparing the allele and/or the genotype detected in the step A with at least one of an allele and/or a genotype, containing a high-risk allele, in the base sequences shown in SEQ ID NOs: 203 to 752 (step B). According to the method of the present invention, the level of a progressive risk of glaucoma in a sample donor can be determined by analyzing an allele or a genotype of a single nucleotide polymorphism in the present invention in the sample, so that the sample donor can take a preventive measure of glaucoma, or can receive appropriate treatments, on the basis of this risk. |
| US08431338B2 |
Self-directing and self-assembling nanomedicine into quantized conductance junctions and its process
A self-directed and self-assembled nanomedicine of quantized conductive junction and its preparation process are introduced. In the present disclosure, bio-organic medicine proteins are prepared into a quantized conductive junction with a nanostructure quantum dot and a polymer monolayer on an inorganic silicon surface by seven cooperative modes; and the preparation process of this inorganic-organic-biological hetero-polymer nano-structure component with free radical electrons, aromatic hetercycle structures, bio-fluorescence, and redox bioactivity is consist of making unitary, binary, ternary, and/or quaternary liquid biochemical medicines ingredients of an antioxidase antioxidant, a β-adrenergic receptor agonist, a P2-purinergic receptor agonist, and/or a phenylalkylamine calcium channel blocker into a solid state quantized conductance junctions using L16(2)15 and L9(3)4 orthogonal protocol. Uses of self-directed and self-assembled nano-medicine molecules into quantized conductance junctions and its process cover quantum informatics, photoelectron nano-devices and nano-metrology. |
| US08431336B2 |
Binding interactions in dipstick assays
Use of dipsticks to test for the presence of target nucleic acid in a sample solution is described. The dipsticks comprise a contact end for contacting the sample solution and a capture zone, remote from the contact end, to which a capture probe is immobilized. The capture probe is capable of hybridising to the target nucleic acid. The sample solution is contacted with the contact end of the dipstick and travels by capillary action to the capture zone. If target nucleic acid is present in the sample solution it is captured and can be detected at the capture zone. The capture probe is immobilized to the capture zone by a spacer. Use of the spacer increases the stability of the interaction between the capture probe and the target nucleic acid and thus improves the sensitivity of target nucleic acid detection. Detection probes with spacers are also described. |
| US08431335B2 |
Compositions and methods for detection of lysosomal storage disease
The present invention provides compositions for performing assays of enzyme activity associated with lysosomal storage diseases. The invention further provides methods for determining enzyme activity, and methods for the screening for lysosomal storage disease in an individual. |
| US08431330B2 |
Surface-treating agent for pattern formation and pattern-forming method using the surface-treating agent
A surface-treating agent for forming a resist pattern, includes: a compound represented by formula (1) as defined in the specification, wherein the surface-treating agent is used in a step between a formation of a first resist pattern on a first resist film and a formation of a second resist film on the first resist pattern to form a second resist pattern, and a pattern-forming method uses the surface-treating agent. |
| US08431323B2 |
Fluorinated monomer of cyclic acetal structure, polymer, resist protective coating composition, resist composition, and patterning process
A fluorinated monomer of cyclic acetal structure has formula (1) wherein R is a C1-C20 alkyl group which may be substituted with halogen or separated by oxygen or carbonyl, and Z is a divalent organic group which forms a ring with alkylenoxy and contains a polymerizable unsaturated group. A polymer derived from the fluorinated monomer may be endowed with appropriate water repellency, water sliding property, lipophilicity, acid lability and hydrolyzability and is useful in formulating a protective coating composition and a resist composition. |
| US08431318B2 |
Toner compositions and processes
The present disclosure provides processes for producing polyester toners by emulsion aggregation where the resulting toner particles have high pigment loadings and desired circularity. The methods include adding a metal, in embodiments a metal compound, at the beginning of coalescence, which speeds the coalescence process and produces toner particles having a desired size and circularity for use in electrophotographic imaging systems. |
| US08431315B2 |
Capsule toner, method of manufacturing the same, and two-component developer
There are provided a capsule toner, a two-component developer, and a capsule toner manufacturing method. The capsule toner in which a resin coating layer made of fine release-agent particles and fine resin particles is made on the surfaces of toner base particles, and thus excellent offset resistance without impairing blocking resistance can be obtained. The capsule toner includes toner base particles containing a binder resin and a colorant, and a resin coating layer made of fine release-agent particles and fine resin particles, for covering the surfaces of the toner base particles. The fine release-agent particles are dispersed in the resin coating layer. |
| US08431313B2 |
Balancing charge area developed and transferred toner
Printing methods are provided. In one aspect, at least one first toner image is formed and transferred onto a receiver to form a composite toner image on a receiver having a first polarity. A second net development difference of potential of the first polarity is created between a second development station, a bias member and the first toner at each location of the receiver, to cause a second toner of the first polarity to deposit at individual locations on the receiver in amounts that increase monotonically with an increase in the net second development difference of potential at the individual locations such that total amount of first toner and any second toner deposited at each location on the receiver is within a range that is less than a range of first toner amounts on the receiver. |
| US08431306B2 |
Polyester resin containing toner
Embodiments include a toner having a polyester resin derived from diacids and diesters, in combination with at least one diol, in embodiments a cycloaliphatic diol, an optional crystalline resin, an optional colorant, and an optional wax. |
| US08431303B2 |
Rosin-based resin and toner containing same
Disclosed is a polyester resin comprising the polycondensation product of (a) at least one diacid, acid ester, or diester; and (b) at least one diol; wherein either (i) at least one diacid, acid ester, or diester comprises a rosin diacid, rosin acid ester, or rosin diester; or (ii) at least one diol comprises a rosin diol. Also disclosed is a toner composition comprising particles which comprise the disclosed polyester resin and an optional colorant. |
| US08431302B2 |
Tunable gloss toners
The present disclosure provides toners having a tunable gloss level, electrophotographic apparatuses for using such toners as well as processes for making such toners. |
| US08431296B2 |
Electrophotographic toner, process for preparing the same, image forming method and apparatus using the toner
Provided are an electrophotographic toner, a process for preparing the same, image forming method and an image forming apparatus using the toner. The electrophotographic toner may include a latex, colorant, wax, Si and Fe. A molar ratio of Si/Fe may be about 0.1 to about 5. |
| US08431289B2 |
Photosensitive composition for volume hologram recording, photosensitive medium for volume hologram recording and volume hologram
The volume hologram recording photosensitive composition provided by the present invention contains at least a fluorine-contained photoreactive compound represented by the following formula (1): R1—R3—(CF2)n-R4—R2 wherein R1 and R2 are photoreactive groups which can be bonded to each other by photoreaction, and each of R3 and R4 is independently a single bond or a bivalent hydrocarbon group having 1 to 5 carbon atoms, and n is an integer of 1 or more. This volume hologram recording photosensitive composition is used to form a recording section of a recording medium, and then the section is exposed to light, whereby a bright volume hologram can be obtained. |
| US08431288B2 |
Current collector plates of bulk-solidifying amorphous alloys
Collector plates made of bulk-solidifying amorphous alloys, the bulk-solidifying amorphous alloys providing ruggedness, lightweight structure, excellent resistance to chemical and environmental effects, and low-cost manufacturing, and methods of making such collector plates from such bulk-solidifying amorphous alloys are provided. |
| US08431284B2 |
Low electrical resistance bipolar plate-diffusion media assembly
A fuel cell assembly and method of forming the same is disclosed, the fuel cell assembly including a membrane electrode assembly, a plurality of diffusion media, and a plurality of bipolar plates, wherein the diffusion media are adhered to the bipolar plates with an adhesive layer adapted to minimize an electrical resistance within the fuel cell assembly. |
| US08431282B2 |
Closed coolant loop with expansion device for a fuel cell system
A fuel cell system that employs a closed coolant loop. The system includes an expansion device having a flexible membrane, where a cooling fluid side of the membrane is in fluid communication with the cooling fluid in the coolant loop and an air side of the membrane is in communication with an air pocket. The air side of the expansion device is in air communication with an air compressor so that the pressure of the cooling fluid within the coolant loop changes as the stack pressure changes. The fuel cell system also includes a coolant reservoir that is in fluid communication with the cooling fluid in the coolant loop. Air and hydrogen bubbles within the cooling fluid are vented to the coolant reservoir where they accumulate. The coolant reservoir includes a level sensor indicating the level of the cooling fluid therein. |
| US08431280B2 |
Fuel utilisation in electrochemical fuel cells
A fuel cell assembly provides for the delivery of fluid into a channel of a fluid flow field plate in alternating flow directions through the channel for delivery of the fluid to a membrane-electrode assembly. The fuel cell includes a fluid flow field plate having a channel for delivery of fluid to a membrane-electrode assembly, the channel having a first inlet/outlet port communicating therewith and a second inlet/outlet port communicating therewith; and a fluid delivery system connected to the fluid flow field plate adapted for bi-directional delivery of fluid into the channel of the fluid flow field plate. |
| US08431277B2 |
Fuel cell system and generation control device
A fuel cell system capable of accurately and precisely determining the wet condition inside a fuel cell. The fuel cell system includes a solid polymer electrolyte type fuel cell having a stack structure. The fuel cell is connected to an air supply system, a hydrogen gas supply system, an output system, and a control unit. The control unit receives flow rates of air and hydrogen gas which flow into the fuel cell, their pressures when exhausted, and a generated current measurement signal. The control unit calculates the amounts of water exhausted from the fuel cell as a gas component and as a liquid component and determines the water balance in the fuel cell. |
| US08431270B2 |
Composite graphite particles for nonaqueous secondary battery, negative-electrode material containing the same, negative electrode, and nonaqueous secondary battery
A subject is to provide a nonaqueous secondary battery which is sufficiently low in charge/discharge irreversible capacity in initial cycling even when an active-material layer comprising a negative-electrode material and formed on a current collector is densified for capacity increase where the subject is accomplished with composite graphite particles for a nonaqueous secondary battery which comprise a composite of spherical graphite particles and a binder graphite and which satisfy at least one of (a) to (g) conditions as presently claimed and a negative electrode produced using the carbonaceous negative-electrode material according to the invention is excellent in electrolytic-solution infiltration and provides a nonaqueous secondary battery having excellent charge/discharge high-load characteristics. |
| US08431264B2 |
Hybrid thin-film battery
An electrochemical device is claimed and disclosed wherein certain embodiments have a cathode greater than about 4 μm and less than about 200 μm thick; a thin electrolyte less than about 10 μm thick; and an anode less than about 30 μm thick. Another claimed and disclosed electrochemical device includes a cathode greater than about 0.5 μm and less than about 200 μm thick; a thin electrolyte less than about 10 μm thick; and an anode less than about 30 μm thick, wherein the cathode is fabricated by a non-vapor phase deposition method. A non-vacuum deposited cathode may be rechargeable or non-rechargeable. The cathode may be made of CFx (carbon fluoride) material, wherein, for example, 0 |
| US08431263B2 |
Automated composite battery
A composite battery capable of adjusting its own power output in response to predetermined signals or lack of predetermined signals is provided. The composite battery has a set of terminals, a battery, a sensing device and a switch, all housed within a casing, which can be in the shape of a conventional battery. The sensor captures signals which upon reaching a certain threshold cause the switch to engage or disengage to selectively provide a load current to an electronic device. The battery may be used in battery-controlled consumer electronics articles, such as toys, to prevent avoidable battery drain or unintended activation when the electronics article is not in use. |
| US08431257B2 |
Perpendicular magnetic recording medium
A perpendicular magnetic recording medium is used for information recording of a perpendicular magnetic recording type. The perpendicular magnetic recording medium includes a substrate, a soft magnetic layer, an underlayer, and a magnetic layer having a multilayered structure including a plurality of magnetic layers. The soft magnetic layer, the underlayer, and the magnetic layer are formed on the substrate. At least one of the magnetic layers includes CoPt magnetic grains containing oxide. The oxide includes at least one material selected from the group consisting of SiO2, TiO2, Cr2O3, Ta2O5, WO3, CoO, and Co3O4. |
| US08431256B2 |
CoFeSiB/Pt multilayers exhibiting perpendicular magnetic anisotropy
Provided is a magnetic anisotropy multilayer including a plurality of CoFeSiB/Pt layers used in a magnetic random access memory. The magnetic anisotropy multilayer includes a first Pt/CoFeSiB layer, and a second Pt/CoFeSiB layer formed on the first Pt/CoFeSiB layer. |
| US08431255B2 |
Galvanomagnetic device and magnetic sensor
Embodiments of the present invention relate to a galvanomagnetic device for use as a magnetic sensor or magnetic memory device. In a particular embodiment, the galvanomagnetic device comprises a non-conductive substrate, a first magnetic layer having a magnetic anisotropy perpendicular to the surface thereof, and a ferromagnetic second magnetic layer formed on the first magnetic layer. On the second magnetic layer, current electrodes are disposed to pass a current between two points, and voltage electrodes are disposed to detect a Hall voltage between two points perpendicularly to the current flow direction. |
| US08431252B2 |
Anthracene derivative, and light-emitting element, light-emitting device, electronic device using anthracene derivative
An object is to provide a novel anthracene derivative. Another object is to provide a light-emitting element with high luminous efficiency. Yet another object is to provide a light-emitting element with a long lifetime. Still another object is to provide a light-emitting device and an electronic device having a long lifetime by using the light-emitting elements of the present invention. The anthracene derivative represented by General Formula (1) is provided. The ability of the anthracene derivative represented by General Formula (1) to exhibit high luminous efficiency allows the production of a light-emitting element with high luminous efficiency and a long lifetime. |
| US08431251B2 |
Heterocyclic compound and organic light-emitting device comprising the same
A heterocyclic compound represented by Formula 1 below and an organic light-emitting device including an organic layer that includes the following heterocyclic compound: wherein R1 to R13 are each independently a hydrogen atom, a heavy hydrogen atom, a substituted or unsubstituted C1-C60 alkyl group, a substituted or unsubstituted C2-C60 alkenyl group, a substituted or unsubstituted C2-C60 alkynyl group, a substituted or unsubstituted C3-C60 cycloalkyl group, a substituted or unsubstituted C1-C60 alkoxy group, a substituted or unsubstituted C5-C60 aryloxy group, a substituted or unsubstituted C5-C60 arylthio group, a substituted or unsubstituted C5-C60 aryl group, an amino group substituted with a C5-C60 aryl group or a C3-C60 heteroaryl group, a substituted or unsubstituted C3-C60 heteroaryl group, a substituted or unsubstituted C6-C60 condensed polycyclic group, a halogen atom, a cyano group, a nitro group, a hydroxy group, or a carboxy group. |
| US08431245B2 |
Deuterated compounds for luminescent applications
This invention relates to deuterated compounds that are useful in electroluminescent applications. It also relates to electronic devices in which the active layer includes such a deuterated compound. |
| US08431240B2 |
Metal plating using seed film
A seed film and methods incorporating the seed film in semiconductor applications is provided. The seed film includes one or more noble metal layers, where each layer of the one or more noble metal layers is no greater than a monolayer. The seed film also includes either one or more conductive metal oxide layers or one or more silicon oxide layers, where either layer is no greater than a monolayer. The seed film can be used in plating, including electroplating, conductive layers, over at least a portion of the seed film. Conductive layers formed with the seed film can be used in fabricating an integrated circuit, including fabricating capacitor structures in the integrated circuit. |
| US08431239B2 |
Article and method for manufacturing same
A article made by vacuum deposition, includes a substrate; and a color layer deposited on the substrate, wherein the color layer has an L* value between about 75 to about 80, an a* value between about −5 to about −10, and a b* value between about 15 to about 20 in the CIE LAB color space. |
| US08431238B2 |
Protective coating for metallic seals
A composition and process for forming an electrodeposited coating comprising a co-deposit of a metal and MCrAlY particles. The composition includes a metal and a MCrAlY particles, and the electrodeposited coating comprises a metal matrix and MCrAlY particles dispersed in the matrix. In one aspect, a coating is provided that exhibits excellent oxidation resistance and tribological characteristics at high temperatures, including up to at least about 1350° F. A high temperature coating may comprise a nickel/cobalt alloy matrix comprising MCrAlY particles and chromium carbide particles dispersed in the nickel/cobalt matrix. |
| US08431231B2 |
Titanium Material and Exhaust Pipe for Engine
The present invention provides a titanium material having high-temperature oxidation resistance at high temperatures above 800° C. and an exhaust pipe made of this titanium material for an engine. A titanium alloy contains 0.15 to 2% by mass Si, has an Al content below 0.30% by mass, and has equiaxial structure having a mean grain size of 15 μm or above. The high-temperature oxidation resistance of the titanium alloy at high temperatures above 800° C., such as 850° C., is improved by means including adding Nb, Mo and Cr in combination with Si to the titanium alloy, forming equiaxial structure of coarse grains, creating acicular structure, Si-enrichment of a surface layer of the titanium alloy, and reducing impurities including copper, oxygen and carbon contained in the titanium alloy. |
| US08431228B2 |
Ceramic component with surface resistant to hot gas and method for the production thereof
The invention relates to a ceramic component comprising a surface which is resistant to hot gas, and a method for the production thereof. Said ceramic component comprises a ceramic body and a surface which is resistant to hot gas. According to the invention, the surface which is resistant to hot gas is provided with a poorly reactive mineral coating. |
| US08431227B2 |
Ceramic product and ceramic member bonding method
The ceramic product provided by the present invention is provided with at least two ceramic members bonded to each other, and the bond parts between these ceramic members bonded to each other are formed from glass having leucite crystals precipitated within the glass matrix. |
| US08431224B2 |
Resin composition for forming insulating layer of printed wiring board
Disclosed is a halogen-free resin composition for printed wiring board production, which is remarkably reduced in quality deterioration due to moisture absorption of a semi-cured resin film (layer). Also disclosed is a copper film with resin or the like. The resin composition is characterized by containing a component A (one or more resins selected from the group consisting of bisphenol-A epoxy resins, bisphenol-F epoxy resins and bisphenol-AD epoxy resins, which have an epoxy equivalent of not more than 200, while being in a liquid state at 25 DEG C.), a component B (a linear polymer having a crosslinkable functional group), a component C (a crosslinking agent), a component D (an imidazole-based epoxy resin curing agent) and a component E (a phosphorus-containing epoxy resin). The resin composition is also characterized by containing 0.5-3.0% by weight of phosphorus atoms per 100% by weight of the resin composition. In the copper foil with resin, a resin layer is formed by using the resin composition. |
| US08431222B2 |
Circuit materials with improved bond, method of manufacture thereof, and articles formed therefrom
A circuit material, comprising a conductive metal layer or a dielectric circuit substrate layer and an adhesive layer disposed on the conductive metal layer or the dielectric substrate layer, wherein the adhesive comprises a poly(arylene ether) and a polybutadiene or polyisoprene polymer. |
| US08431219B2 |
Optical layered body including an antiglare layer containing organic particles and nonspherical silica particles
In view of the above state of the art, it is an object of the present invention to provide an optical layered body which can prevent the agglomeration of silica particles and form the desired surface roughness on the surface.An optical layered body comprising a light-transmitting substrate and an antiglare layer having a surface roughness on its surface, wherein said antiglare layer is a resin layer containing an organic particle and a nonspherical silica, and a weight ratio of organic particle/nonspherical silica is from 1/10 to 60/10. |
| US08431218B2 |
Poly (lactic acid) resin composition for preparing transparent and impact-resistant article, article prepared therefrom and preparation process thereof
A poly(lactic acid) resin composition is provided, comprising (a) a poly(lactic acid) resin, (b) at least one modifier selected from at least one metal/nonmetal alkoxide, at least one metal/nonmetal alkoxide having at least one functional group capable of reacting with the poly(lactic acid) resin, or a mixture thereof, (c) a first catalyst, and (d) optionally, a second catalyst. A process for preparing a transparent and impact-resistant article from the poly(lactic acid) resin composition of the invention, and articles prepared therefrom are also provided. |
| US08431214B2 |
Composite structure having reinforced core and method of making same
A polymer-based composite sandwich includes a reinforced core bonded between a pair of composite facesheets. The core includes a truss formed by groups of composite pins held in place by a layer of structural foam. The pins in the groups are radially arranged around nodes. The ends of the pins are splayed and sandwiched between the foam layer and the facesheets. |
| US08431203B2 |
High temperature cooking bag for packaging and cooking whole muscle meat products
High temperature bags for use in high temperature processes. Suitable high temperature processes include cooking food products, such as whole muscle meats, and sterilization of medical instruments. The high temperature bags may be comprised of multilayer films comprising materials that can withstand high temperatures and also have other beneficial properties such as, for example, the ability to be readily heat sealed, durability, no adhesion to food products, and good/improved moisture and gas barrier properties. These high temperature bags can preferably withstand temperatures greater than the boiling point of water, i.e., 212° F., more preferably greater than 300° F. and more even more preferably greater than 350° F. Furthermore, the high temperature bags may be used to freeze and ship products and may be placed directly into a high temperature environment, such as an oven or microwave, in order to cook or sterilize a product contained within the bag. |
| US08431198B2 |
Multilayer coextruded shrink labels of oriented polystyrene film containing small rubber particles and low rubber particle gel content and block copolymers
A multilayer film comprises at least 3 layers including a first outer layer, a second outer layer and between the first and second outer layers at least one core layer. The first and second outer layers each comprise at least 75 weight percent of (a) at least one high impact polystyrene component. The core layer(s) comprises(s) (b) at least one styrene block copolymer that is present at a concentration of at least about 2 weight percent of the polymers in the film; and polymers (a), (b) and (c) at least one general purpose polystyrene having a Mw of more than 200,000 and 350,000 or less and that is present at a concentration of at least about 10 wt. % and up to at most about 50 wt. % of the polymers in the composition account for 100 percent by weight of the polymers in the polymer composition excluding polymeric additives. |
| US08431197B2 |
Layered reactive particles with controlled geometries, energies, and reactivities, and methods for making the same
An energetic composite having a plurality of reactive particles each having a reactive multilayer construction formed by successively depositing reactive layers on a rod-shaped substrate having a longitudinal axis, dividing the reactive-layer-deposited rod-shaped substrate into a plurality of substantially uniform longitudinal segments, and removing the rod-shaped substrate from the longitudinal segments, so that the reactive particles have a controlled, substantially uniform, cylindrically curved or otherwise rod-contoured geometry which facilitates handling and improves its packing fraction, while the reactant multilayer construction controls the stability, reactivity and energy density of the energetic composite. |
| US08431196B2 |
Method for fixing the position of a glass tube or glass rod spiral in a glass tube, glass tube assembly and the application of the same
The glass tube assembly has an outer glass tube provided with a tapered section and an inner glass tube or rod, which is arranged inside of the outer glass tube and which has a spiral section. The tapered section is formed by one or more projections on the inner surface of the outer glass tube. Each projection extends in a longitudinal direction of the outer glass tube and does not extend around its entire circumference. The internal width of the tapered section is smaller than the outside diameter of the spiral section of the inner glass tube or rod, so that the inner glass tube or rod is reliably prevented from slipping or rotating out of the outer glass tube by its spiral section. A method of making the glass tube assembly is also described. |
| US08431191B2 |
Method for treating titanium objects with a surface layer of mixed tantalum and titanium oxides
This invention introduces a method for treating a surface of an electrically conductive object with a refractory metal. In one embodiment, the refractory metal is tantalum and the object is a titanium substrate. A surface layer of mixed tantalum and titanium oxides is created by first heating the object and tantalum chloride in a reaction chamber and subsequently heat treating the object in an oxygen containing environment. The electrically conductive object can in a non-limiting way be DSA solutions (Dimensionally Stable Anodes), fuel cells or connector plates. |
| US08431186B2 |
Method for the coating of a diesel particle filter and diesel particle filter produced thereby
To equip a diesel particle filter with a zeolite-containing coating uniformly over the entire length of the particle filter and with a further zeolite-free coating which is applied, from the entry side of the filter, solely up to a specific length of the filter, it is proposed, first, to apply the zeolite-free coating from the entry side of the filter and only thereafter to apply the zeolite-containing coating over the entire length of the filter from the exit side of the filter. As a result of this sequence of coatings, a better adhesive strength of the coatings than when both coatings are applied from the entry side is ensured. |
| US08431184B2 |
Methods of forming electrically conductive structures
Some embodiments include methods of forming conductive material within high aspect ratio openings and low aspect ratio openings. Initially, the high aspect ratio openings may be filled with a first conductive material while the low aspect ratio openings are only partially filled with the first conductive material. Additional material may then be selectively plated over the first conductive material within the low aspect ratio openings relative to the first conductive material within the high aspect ratio openings. In some embodiments, the additional material may be activation material that only partially fills the low aspect ratio opening, and another conductive material may be subsequently plated onto the activation material to fill the low aspect ratio openings. |
| US08431182B2 |
Matrix type display device and manufacturing method thereof
An object of the invention is to improve patterning accuracy while maintaining low cost, high throughput and a high degree of freedom of an optical material in a matrix type display device and a manufacturing method thereof.In order to achieve the object, a difference in height, a desired distribution of liquid repellency and affinity to liquid, or a desired potential distribution is formed by utilizing first bus lines in a passive matrix type display device or utilizing scanning lines, signal lines, common current supply lines, pixel electrodes, an interlevel insulation film, or a light shielding layer in an active matrix type display device. A liquid optical material is selectively coated at predetermined positions by utilizing the difference in height, the desired distribution of liquid repellency and affinity to liquid, or the desired potential distribution. |
| US08431176B2 |
Liquid chromatographic fraction of enzymatically polymerized flavonoid as an antioxidant
Disclosed is a separated fraction of a reaction product of an enzymatically catalyzed polymerization of a flavonoid. The separated fraction is highly resistant to oxidation and is useful in numerous applications such as an antioxidant in food products and medical applications. |
| US08431175B2 |
Method for preparing a beverage or food liquid and system using brewing centrifugal force
A capsule, device, system and method for preparing a liquid food or beverage. The capsule comprises an enclosure containing one or more extractable or infusible ingredients and configured and dimensioned to have a perimeter and be radially symmetrical about a central axis to facilitate rotation; and an opening arrangement that allows liquid food to leave the capsule after passing through the ingredient(s), wherein the opening arrangement is configured and positioned near or upon the perimeter of the enclosure to allow the liquid food to leave the capsule radially due to the application of the centrifugal forces. The method and device introduce liquid into the capsule to form the liquid food while applying centrifugal forces to the capsule to urge the liquid to pass through the ingredient(s). |
| US08431168B2 |
Anti-norovirus agent and composition containing the same
Provided is an anti-norovirus agent that has high norovirus-inactivating activity and is safe for the human body, and an anti-norovirus composition that contains the anti-norovirus agent and is useful for disinfection and infection control against the norovirus. The anti-norovirus agent includes, as an active ingredient, an extract from a plant of the genus Diospyros containing tannin (hereinafter referred to as a “persimmon extract”), preferably a persimmon extract produced by heating squeezed juice or an extract from the fruit of a plant of the genus Diospyros or treating the squeezed juice or the extract with an alcohol. The anti-norovirus composition contains the anti-norovirus agent and at least one selected from the group consisting of alcohols, surfactants, antimicrobial agents, humectants, and cosmetic fats and oils, and preferably further containing an organic acid, such as citric acid, and/or a salt thereof or vitamin C. |
| US08431162B2 |
Subpopulations of bone marrow-derived adherent stem cells and methods of use therefor
The presently disclosed subject matter provides an isolated subpopulation of bone marrow-derived adherent stem cells that are purified from bone marrow-derived adherent cells. Also provided are methods for isolating the subpopulation of bone marrow-derived adherent stem cells from bone marrow-derived adherent cells and for using the isolated subpopulation of bone marrow-derived adherent stem cells for treating tissue and/or organ damage in a subject. |
| US08431161B2 |
Microparticle and pharmaceutical composition thereof
A microparticle includes an agglomerate of a hydrophilic active substance containing particle, which particle includes an amphiphilic polymer composed of a hydrophobic segment of poly(hydroxy acid) and a hydrophilic segment of polysaccharides or polyethylene glycol, and a hydrophilic active substance. It is characterized by an efficient inclusion of the hydrophilic active substance, and a release of the hydrophilic active substance at an appropriate speed in the human body, and is hence very useful as a DDS pharmaceutical preparation. |
| US08431154B2 |
Oral dosage form containing a PDE 4 inhibitor as an active ingredient and polyvinylpyrrolidone as excipient
Dosage forms for oral administration of a PDE 4 inhibitor whose solubility is slight are described. They contain PVP as binder. |
| US08431142B2 |
Topical sanitizing gel containing avenanthramides
Topical sanitizer includes avenanthramides, which is an active component of oats that is beneficial to the skin. The topical sanitizer is used preferably in conjunction with gloves that have an inner coating that includes avenanthramides. By using topical sanitizer that includes avenanthramides before and after wearing gloves, the skin of the person wearing the glove is more exposed to the beneficial avenanthramides all during the workday, not just when wearing gloves. The result is healthier, much softer and more comfortable skin on the hands. |
| US08431137B2 |
Influenza hemagglutinin and neuraminidase variants
Polypeptides, polynucleotides, methods, compositions, and vaccines comprising (avian pandemic) influenza hemagglutinin and neuraminidase variants are provided. |
| US08431135B2 |
Polypeptides and methods for the specific detection of antibodies in patients with a borrelia infection
The present disclosure relates to proteins derived from OspC from bacteria of the genus Borrelia, in particular a protein which comprises a first OspC polypeptide, wherein the first OspC polypeptide is linked to a second OspC polypeptide via a disulphide bridge. The disclosure also relates to a method for the detection of antibodies against OspC and a method for the detection of a Borrelia infection, wherein a protein according to the disclosure is employed, and also to a diagnostic kit and a vaccine against Borrelia. |
| US08431131B2 |
CD38 and obesity
This document provides methods and materials relating to obesity. For example, methods and materials related to treating obesity and identifying agents having the ability to treat obesity are provided. |
| US08431130B2 |
IL-18 binding proteins
The present invention encompasses IL-18 binding proteins, particularly antibodies that bind human interleukin-18 (hIL-18). Specifically, the invention relates to antibodies that are entirely human antibodies. Preferred antibodies have high affinity for hIL-18 and/or that neutralize hIL-18 activity in vitro and in vivo. An antibody of the invention can be a full-length antibody or an antigen-binding portion thereof. Method of making and method of using the antibodies of the invention are also provided. The antibodies, or antibody portions, of the invention are useful for detecting hIL-18 and for inhibiting hIL-18 activity, e.g., in a human subject suffering from a disorder in which hIL-18 activity is detrimental. |
| US08431127B2 |
Method for treating pruritus comprising administering an NR10 antagonist
The present inventors isolated clone BM095 from a human antibody phage library, which had a strong growth inhibitory activity in the IL-31-dependent Ba/F3 cell growth assay system. When administered to pruritus model mice, the anti-mouse NR10 neutralizing antibody exhibited a marked symptom-suppressing effect. Thus, it was revealed that anti-NR10 neutralizing antibodies are useful as therapeutic agents for pruritus. |
| US08431125B2 |
Methods of treating lupus nephritis using antibodies against monocyte chemotactic proteins
The invention provides antibodies that bind to a plurality of β-chemokines, particularly monocyte chemotactic proteins MCP-1, MCP-2 and MCP-3. The invention also provides cells producing the antibodies, and methods of making and using the same. |
| US08431119B2 |
Pharmaceutical compositions and utilization thereof particularly for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases
The present invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions that act on the p53 protein or its gene and methods of use for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. |
| US08431117B2 |
Sickled erythrocytes with anti-tumor agents induce tumor vaso-occlusion and tumoricidal effects
The present invention provides erythrocytes or nucleated erythrocyte precursors from animals or patients with at least one S hemoglobin allele which are capable of selectively localizing in tumor vasculature resulting in vaso-occlusion, hemolysis and heme release. A tumoricidal effect is achieved when these cells are administered in before during or after administration of (i) an agent(s) that interferes with degradation of reactive oxygen species, (ii) impairs glucose uptake and/or (iii) chemotherapy. These cells also carry oncolytic viruses, antitumor proteins, multidrug resistant proteins, chemotherapy, monoclonal antibodies, superantigens, superantigen conjugates and fusion proteins, siRNAs, plasmids and non-protein toxins and attenuated tumoricidal bacterial cells specifically into the tumors and induce a tumoricidal effect. |
| US08431115B1 |
Animal attractant
An animal attractant composition comprising 35 weight percent to 45 weight percent of a primary mineral mixture, 35 weight percent to 45 weight percent of a cobalt iodized salt, 15 weight percent to 25 weight percent of a trace mineral and Vitamins A, B and E and a method for forming an artificial animal lick that lasts no less than 3 months. |
| US08431110B2 |
Compounds and method of identifying, synthesizing, optimizing and profiling protein modulators
This invention relates to methods of identifying, synthesizing, optimizing and profiling compounds that are inhibitors or activators of proteins, both naturally occurring endogenous proteins as well as certain variant forms of endogenous proteins, and novel methods of identifying such variants. The method accelerates the identification and development of compounds as potential therapeutically effective drugs by simplifying the pharmaceutical discovery and creation process through improvements in hit identification, lead optimization, biological profiling, and rapid elimination of toxic compounds. Implementation results in overall cost reductions in the drug discovery process resulting from the corresponding increases in efficiency. |
| US08431105B2 |
Method for producing process gas for the claus process
With a method configured to generate process gas that contains hydrogen sulfide and sulfur dioxide for the Claus process, hydrogen-sulfide containing feed gas is burned with pure oxygen by means of several burners opening out into a combustion chamber wherein the pure oxygen is fed into the combustion chamber through a central tube each, the feed gas through a tube arranged coaxially around the central tube and inert gas as purge gas via an annular duct coaxially surrounding the feed gas tube. A favorable option of the method consists in the use of CO2 reclaimed by desorption of laden methanol as purge gas. |
| US08431104B2 |
Process for the production of chlorine dioxide
The invention concerns a process for the production of chlorine dioxide comprising formation of chlorine dioxide in a reaction medium in at least one reaction vessel and withdrawing chlorine dioxide from said at least one reaction vessel, the process further comprising a step of treating reaction medium or at least one process stream originating directly or indirectly from said at least one reaction vessel with an adsorbent efficient for removing chlorinated organic compounds from said at least one process stream. |
| US08431100B2 |
CO2-sequestering formed building materials
CO2-sequestering formed building materials are provided. The building materials of the invention include a composition comprising a carbonate/bicarbonate component. Additional aspects of the invention include methods of making and using the CO2-sequestering formed building material. |
| US08431098B2 |
Gas purification using photocatalytic vortex-suspended particles
Embodiments of the technology disclosed herein include exemplary gas purifiers that use cyclonic separation and photocatalytic purification to oxidize contaminants in unpurified gas. One such gas purifier includes a vessel that defines a tapered cyclonic chamber. Unpurified gas enters the chamber and induces a gas vortex. Photocatalytic particles in the chamber become suspended in the vortex and mix with contaminants in the incoming gas. A light source activates the photocatalytic particles, which oxidize the contaminants to purify the gas. The purified gas exits via the wide of end of the chamber. Cyclonic action forces the photocatalytic particles out of the chamber's narrow end to a recycling conduit, which conveys the photocatalytic particles back into the chamber. |