| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08509022B2 |
Fuse set and semiconductor integrated circuit apparatus having the same
A fuse set includes a first row constituted by a plurality of fuses which are arranged with a first spacing; a second row including a plurality of fuses which are disposed to correspond to the fuses of the first row on the same plane, and separated from the fuses of the first row with a second spacing; and a connection part disposed between the first row and the second row and electrically connected with the plurality of fuses of the first row and the plurality of fuses of the second row, wherein the connection part and the pluralities of fuses of the first and second rows are disposed on different planes. |
| US08509021B2 |
Methods, circuits, and systems to select memory regions
Embodiments for selecting regions of memory are described. For example, in one embodiment a memory device having an array of memory cells includes an array selection block. The array selection block receives an input signal indicative of a region in the array of memory cells. The array selection block generates a selection signal to map the region to at least one physical location in the array of memory cells, based on the detection of the number of defects in that location. |
| US08509019B2 |
Voltage generation circuit and nonvolatile memory device including the same
A voltage generation circuit for providing a read or verification voltage of a nonvolatile memory device includes a first voltage generation unit configured to output a first voltage using a first reference voltage, a bouncing compensation unit configured to change the first voltage using a first control signal, the first voltage, and a voltage of a global source line when a read or verification operation is performed on the nonvolatile memory device, and to output a changed first voltage as a second voltage, a second reference voltage generation unit configured to generate a second reference voltage, and an amplification unit configured to amplify a difference between the second voltage and the second reference voltage according to a set resistance ratio and to output a result of the amplification as a third voltage. |
| US08509018B2 |
Sense amplifier with adjustable back bias
A circuit having a sensing circuit and at least one of a first node and a second node is described. The sensing circuit includes a pair of a first type transistors and a pair of a second type transistors. Each transistor of the pair of the first type transistors is coupled in series with a transistor of the pair of the second type transistors. The first node has a first voltage and is coupled to each bulk of each transistor of the pair of the first type transistors. The second node has a second voltage and is coupled to each bulk of each transistor of the pair of the second type transistors. |
| US08509016B2 |
Methods and memory devices for repairing memory cells
Methods and memory devices for repairing memory cells are discloses, such as a memory device that includes a main array having a plurality of sections of memory cells. One such main array includes a plurality of sets of input/output lines, each of which may be coupled to a respective plurality of memory cells in each section. One such memory device also includes a redundant section of memory cells, corresponding in number to the number of memory cells in each of the sections of the main array. An addressing circuit may contain a record of, for example, sections that have been determined to be defective. The addressing circuit may receive an address and compare the received address with the record of defective sections. In the event of a match, the addressing circuit may redirect an access to memory cells corresponding to the received address to memory cells in the redundant section. |
| US08509015B2 |
Using a precharge characteristics of a node to validate a previous data/signal value represented by a discharge of said node
An integrated circuit precharges a node 6 to a precharge voltage using precharging circuitry 4. During a discharge phase discharging circuitry 8 selectively discharges that node 6 is to represent a data/signal value. Sensing circuitry 10 detects a discharge characteristic to identify the data/signal value being represented. During the subsequent precharging operation of the node 6 back to the precharge voltage, validating circuitry 12 detects a precharge characteristic, such as the precharge current, the charge transferred, changes in the node voltage or a like, and compares this to the detected discharge characteristic corresponding to the data/signal value sensed by the sensing circuitry. If there is a mismatch, then an operation error signal is generated. The operation error signal may be used to adjust operation parameter, such as the operating voltage/frequency, the timing of the operation of a portion of the integrated circuit or another parameter. |
| US08509012B2 |
Precharge signal generation circuit of semiconductor memory apparatus
A precharge signal generation circuit of a semiconductor memory apparatus may comprise a read/write precharge command generation section configured to delay a precharge command by a first delay time set in response to a control signal to generate one of a read precharge command and a write precharge command; and a read/write bank precharge address generation section configured to delay a bank column address strobe signal by a second delay time set in response to the precharge command delayed in the read/write precharge command generation section, and generate one of a read bank precharge address and a write bank precharge address. |
| US08509010B2 |
Input/output circuit and method of semiconductor apparatus and system with the same
A system includes a controller which is capable of operating at one of a first speed and a second speed slower than the first speed; a semiconductor memory apparatus operating at the first speed; and an input/output device which is connected between the semiconductor memory apparatus and the controller, and configured to control input/output of signals between the controller and the semiconductor memory apparatus, wherein the input/output device operates in a normal mode which corresponds to the input/output of the signals between the controller operating at the first speed and the semiconductor memory apparatus and a test mode which corresponds to the input/output of the signals between the controller operating at the second speed and the semiconductor memory apparatus. |
| US08509008B2 |
Internal voltage generator of semiconductor memory device
An internal voltage generator of a semiconductor memory device includes a proportional to absolute temperature (PTAT) current generator configured to generate a PTAT current having a varying current in proportion to a temperature change, a current control circuit configured to generate an internal current identical with the PTAT current and generate an internal voltage based on the internal current, and an offset circuit configured to control the internal voltage to a set voltage level. |
| US08509006B2 |
Semiconductor device and method of detecting abnormality on semiconductor device
A semiconductor device includes: a plurality of word lines; a word line driver; a first detection circuit; and a control circuit. The plurality of word lines is connected to gates of a plurality of memory cell transistors, respectively. The word line driver supplies one of a selection voltage and a non-selection voltage to each of the plurality of word lines. The first detection circuit detects a first current flowing into the word line driver through a wiring supplying the selection voltage when the selection voltage is supplied to one of the plurality of word lines through the word line driver. The control circuit detects abnormality of the plurality of word lines and the word line driver based on the first current. |
| US08509005B2 |
Data strobe signal generating device and a semiconductor memory apparatus using the same
A data strobe signal generating device includes a preamble controller configured to generate a preamble signal enabled in synchronization with a first clock signal and disabled in synchronization with a second clock signal after an output enable signal is enabled, and a data strobe signal output unit configured to generate a data strobe signal in response to the preamble signal. |
| US08509001B2 |
Adaptive write procedures for non-volatile memory
A method includes performing a write operation on memory cells of a memory array to a first logic state using a voltage of a charge pump. A portion of the write operation is performed on the memory cells of the memory array using the voltage of the charge pump. A level of the voltage is compared to a reference. If the level of the voltage is below the reference, the write operation is continued with an increased level of the voltage by reducing load on the charge pump by providing the voltage on a reduced number of memory cells, wherein the reduced number of memory cells is a first subset of the memory cells. |
| US08509000B2 |
Simultaneous multi-state read or verify in non-volatile storage
Methods and devices for simultaneously verifying or reading multiple states in non-volatile storage are disclosed. Methods and devices for efficiently reducing or eliminating cross-coupling effects in non-volatile storage are disclosed. Methods and devices for efficiently performing reads at a number of voltages to search for the threshold voltage of a memory cell are disclosed. Memory cells on different NAND strings that are read at the same time may be tested for different threshold voltage levels. Memory cells may be tested for different threshold voltages by applying different gate-to-source voltages to memory cells being tested for different threshold voltages. Memory cells may be tested for different threshold voltages by applying different drain to source voltages to the memory cells. Different amounts of compensation for cross-coupling affects may be applied to memory cells on different NAND strings that are read or programmed at the same time. |
| US08508992B2 |
Semiconductor memory device and method of operating the same
A method of operating a semiconductor memory device includes performing an LSB program operation for selected memory cells while raising a program voltage, when the threshold voltages of some of the selected memory cells reach a target level, storing data, corresponding to a relevant program voltage, in a first flag cell, performing the LSB program operation for some of the selected memory cells, having threshold voltages not reached the target level, until the threshold voltages of all the selected memory cells reach the target level, and after the LSB program operation is completed, performing an MSB program operation for the selected memory cells by using a program voltage, set based on the data stored in the first flag cell, as a start program voltage. |
| US08508991B2 |
Method for performing memory access management, and associated memory device and controller thereof
A method for performing memory access management includes: with regard to a same memory cell of a memory, according to a first digital value output by the memory, requesting the memory to output at least one second digital value, wherein the first digital value and the at least one second digital value are utilized for determining information of a same bit stored in the memory cell, and a number of various possible states of the memory cell is equal to a number of various possible combinations of all bit(s) stored in the memory cell; and based upon the at least one second digital value, generating/obtaining soft information of the memory cell, for use of performing soft decoding. An associated memory device and a controller thereof are also provided. |
| US08508989B2 |
Post-facto correction for cross coupling in a flash memory
A method of storing and reading data, using a memory that includes a plurality of cells (e.g. flash cells), such that data are stored in the cells by setting respective values of a physical parameter of the cells (e.g. threshold voltage) to be indicative of the data, and such that data are read from the cells by measuring those values. One of the cells and its neighbors are read. The data stored in the cell are estimated, based on the measurements and on respective extents to which the neighbors disturb the reading. Preferably, the method also includes determining those respective extents to which the neighbors disturb the reading, for example based on the measurements themselves. |
| US08508986B2 |
Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device having first and second digit line drivers and a bit line driver. When the address of one segment has been input from the outside, a segment decoder selects one segment corresponding to the address and couples the same to the selected first digit line driver. When the addresses of two or more segments have been input from the outside, the segment decoder selects two or more segments corresponding to the addresses and couples the selected two or more segments to the respective digital line drivers. |
| US08508977B2 |
Semiconductor memory device
According to one embodiment, a semiconductor memory device includes a first cell array includes memory cells and reference cells, a second cell array located adjacent to the first cell array in a first direction, a third cell array located adjacent to the first cell array in a second direction crossing the first direction, a fourth cell array located adjacent to the second cell array in the second direction, and a sense amplifier connected to the first to fourth cell array and configured to compare a current through a memory cell with a current through a reference cell to determine the data of the memory cell. A reference cell is selected from a cell array which is diagonally opposite to a cell array as a read target. |
| US08508976B2 |
Nonvolatile memory element and nonvolatile memory device
Provided is a nonvolatile memory element which has a small variation in operation and allow stable operation. The nonvolatile memory element includes: a first electrode (102); a second electrode (106); a variable resistance layer (105) which is formed between the electrodes (102 and 106) and is connected to the electrodes (102 and 106), and which reversibly changes between a high resistance state and a low resistance state according to a polarity of a voltage applied between the electrodes (102 and 106); and a fixed resistance layer (104) which has a resistance value that is 0.1 and 10 times as large as a resistance value of the variable resistance layer in the high resistance state, the fixed resistance layer (104) being formed between the electrodes (102 and 106) and being electrically connected to at least a part of the variable resistance layer (105). |
| US08508961B2 |
Power conversion apparatus
A power conversion apparatus includes two power conversion circuits, two direct-current inductors, and a pulse-width-modulation control circuit. One of the two power conversion circuits is connected in parallel to a direct-current load or a single-phase alternating-current load, and the other of the two power conversion circuits is connected in parallel to a three-phase alternating-current load. The two power conversion circuits are connected in reverse polarity to each other via the two direct-current inductors. The pulse-width-modulation control circuit pulse-width-modulates the two power conversion circuits, allows switching between the two power conversion circuits, and realizes a bidirectional step-up/down operation between the direct-current load or single-phase alternating-current load and the three-phase alternating-current load. |
| US08508960B2 |
Voltage detector and protection apparatus using the same
A voltage detector includes a zener diode having a cathode connected to a detect terminal of the voltage detector, a junction field effect transistor having an input terminal connected to an anode of the zener diode, and a resistor connected between an output terminal and a control terminal of the junction field effect transistor. When the voltage on the detect terminal is higher than the breakdown voltage of the zener diode, the junction field effect transistor produces a current flowing through the resistor, and thereby a detection signal can be obtained from the voltage across the resistor. |
| US08508957B2 |
Power conversion device for converting DC power to AC power
A power conversion device includes an inverter for converting DC power to AC power to supply the AC power to a load, a converter for converting AC power from an AC power supply to DC power to supply the DC power to the inverter, a DC voltage converter for converting a voltage value of power stored in a storage battery to supply DC power from the storage battery to the inverter when power supply by the AC power supply is abnormal, and a filter which includes a reactor and a capacitor and removes harmonics generated by the inverter. The inverter includes a three-level circuit constituted of an arm and an AC switch. |
| US08508956B2 |
Modular shielded electronics enclosure
A modular electronics enclosure for reducing electromagnetic interference (EMI) is disclosed. The electronics assembly includes a first electronic component having an output, a second electronic component having an input with an input impedance, and a circuit matching element having an input coupled to the output of the first electronic component and an output coupled to the input of the second electronic component. The output of the circuit matching element is configured to provide an output impedance that matches the input impedance of the second electronic component. The electronics assembly also includes a conductive surface that forms a volume that encloses the first electronic component and the circuit matching element. All non-conductive passages from the volume to the external environment have at least one cross-sectional opening having a continuous conductive perimeter with a maximum linear length within the opening of less than one quarter wavelength of a maximum shielding frequency. |
| US08508952B2 |
Electrical assembly
An electrical device that is electrically and mechanically connectable to another electrical device includes a face equipped with contact pads. An adhesive layer is on the face equipped with the contact pads. The adhesive layer is composed of a substance with adhesive properties. A plurality of openings through the adhesive are layer over each contact pad, and small metal sticks which have been grown electrolessly or electrochemically are in the areas where the openings have been created to form a plurality of conductive paths over each contact pad, the volume of which is defined by the openings. |
| US08508951B2 |
Printed circuit board for use in gigabit-capable passive optical network and method for laying out the printed circuit board
A method for laying out a printed circuit board for use in a gigabit-capable passive optical network includes the steps of providing a printed circuit board and laying out an analog circuit module, an analog-to-digital conversion module, a signal processing module, an optoelectronic transmitting and receiving module, and a power module on the printed circuit board. The printed circuit board has a first periphery and an opposing second periphery. The analog circuit module and the optoelectronic transmitting and receiving module are laid out at the first periphery of the printed circuit board. The power module is laid out at the second periphery of the printed circuit board. Electromagnectic wave generated by a power IC inserted in the power module does not interfere with data transmission taking place at the optoelectronic transmitting and receiving module. Furthermore, a printed circuit board for use with the method is proposed. |
| US08508948B2 |
Communication apparatus
A communication apparatus includes first and second housings connected to each other by a hinge mechanism. The first housing includes a first substrate having electronic components electrically connected to an antenna, a first hinge portion configuring a portion of the hinge mechanism, and a first conductive member provided in the first hinge portion. The second housing includes a second substrate having electronic components, a waterproofing partition wall surrounding the second substrate, a second hinge portion configuring a portion of the hinge mechanism, a second conductive member provided in the second hinge portion to be capacitively-coupled with the first conductive member, and a third conductive member insertion-molded therein. The third conductive member includes an inner portion positioned on an inner side of the partition wall, and an outer portion extending from the inner portion toward an outer side of the partition wall and capacitively-coupled with the second conductive member. |
| US08508947B2 |
Flex cable and method for making the same
An assembly of substrate packages interconnected with flex cables. The assembly allows input/output (I/O) signals to be speedily transmitted between substrate packages via flex cable and without being routed through the motherboard. Embodiments relate to a substrate package providing detachable inter-package flex cable connection. The flex cable comprises a transmission region that includes a plurality of signal traces and a ground plane. A plurality of solder mask strips are disposed on the plurality of signals traces to provide anchoring for the signal traces. The solder mask strips intersect the signals traces. The exposed signal traces and the ground plane are coated with organic solderability preservative material. Hermetically-sealed guiding through holes are provided on the substrate package as a mechanical alignment feature to guide connection between flex cables and high speed I/O contact pads on the substrate package. Embodiments of the method of fabrication relate to simultaneously forming hermetically-sealed guiding through holes and I/O contact pads. |
| US08508943B2 |
Cooling active circuits
In one aspect, an assembly includes a panel that includes a first surface. The panel also includes a first active circuit coupled to the first surface of the panel and a cold plate having a first bore. The cold plate includes a first inner surface exposed by the first bore. The panel further includes a first thermally conductive material in contact with the first inner surface of the cold plate and the first active circuit. |
| US08508939B2 |
Fan and electronic device equipped with the same
A fan includes, an impeller having propeller-shaped blades, a motor disposed inside of a hub to rotationally drive the impeller centered on the rotation axis, a tubular air duct forming an air passage on a periphery of the blades of the impeller and the rotation axis, wherein the rotation axis penetrates the inside of the air duct, and an exhaust outlet larger than an outer diameter of a rotation trajectory of the blades is formed on one end of the air duct, and an air flow guiding plate blocking an opening on an other end of the air duct in the rotation axis direction, a suction inlet through which the rotation axis passes being formed in approximately the center of the air flow guiding plate, wherein the blades are closer to the air flow guiding plate than the air duct. |
| US08508938B2 |
Portable computer with a heat dissipating stand
A portable computer includes a host module having a host housing. A slot is formed on the host housing, and the slot includes a first fixing end and a second fixing end. The portable computer further includes a display module pivoted to the host module, and a heat dissipating stand installed inside the slot on the host housing in a slidable manner. When an end of the heat dissipating stand is fixed on the first fixing end of the slot, the heat dissipating stand is contained inside the slot completely. When the end of the heat dissipating stand is fixed on the second fixing end of the slot, the other end of the heat dissipating stand protrudes out of the slot and is disposed under the host housing so as to lift the host module. |
| US08508935B2 |
Handheld electronic device and operating method thereof
A handheld electronic device and an operating method thereof are provided. The handheld electronic device includes a first body, a second body, and a moving assembly. The moving assembly includes a sliding module and at least one rotating module. The sliding module is coupled to the second body, wherein the second body is moveable between a first position and a second position. The rotating module is coupled between the first body and the sliding module so that the second body is rotated relative to the first body. The second body is automatically rotated from the second position to a third position to form a first angle with the first body. The second body can be rotated between the third position and a fourth position to form a second angle with the first body, wherein the second angle is greater than the first angle. |
| US08508931B2 |
Recorder set and holder
A recorder set includes: a recorder which has a connection terminal electrically connected to external equipment, and a casing; and a holder which maintains an attitude of the recorder. The casing has an accommodation unit which accommodates the connection terminal therein, and an opening which allows the connection terminal to externally project therethrough. The holder includes an attachment unit which allows the recorder to be attached thereto in a predetermined attitude. The attachment unit includes a fit member which has an inner wall fitting the connection terminal in geometry. The fit member has an outer wall fittable in the opening. |
| US08508924B2 |
Portable electronic device
A portable electronic device includes a first cover, a second cover and a connecting mechanism connecting the first cover with the second cover. The connecting mechanism includes a fixing base fixed on the first cover, a turning base fixed on the second cover, a first linking board rotatably connected to the fixing base and the turning base, a second linking board rotatably connected to the fixing base and the turning base. The fixing base, the first linking board, the turning base and the second linking board collectively form a four-bar linkage mechanism. The connecting mechanism further includes an arc spring urged between the second linking board and the fixing base to supply an elastic force to the four-bar linkage mechanism. |
| US08508921B2 |
Housing assembly and portable electronic device having the same
A housing assembly having a housing and a clip. The housing has a pair of raised ridge portions and a first locking portion formed between the pair of raised ridge portions. Each of the pair of raised ridge portions has an undercut side wall and the undercut side wall defines a sliding groove. Additionally, the pair of raised ridge portions has a first entrance port and a second entrance port at two ends thereof. The clip has an insertion portion, a bent portion and a clamp portion. The insertion portion has side edges for inserting within the pair of raised ridge portions through either of the first entrance port and the second entrance port and a second locking portion. |
| US08508920B2 |
Electronic apparatus with improved functionality
The invention relates to an electronic apparatus comprising a flexible display 12 cooperating with a housing 15 and conceived to be alternated between an at least partially collapsed state and an at least partially extended state, said housing 15 comprising a substantially rigid portion 16a , 16b , 16c conceived to at least partially support an outer region of a surface of the flexible display in the extended state, wherein said rigid portion 16a , 16b , 16c is arranged for at least partially receiving a functional module 18a, 18b, 18c of the electronic apparatus. |
| US08508913B2 |
Laminate type electronic component and manufacturing method therefor
In a method of manufacturing a laminate type electronic component, when a heat treatment is carried out after plating films, which at least partially define external electrodes, are formed by growing plated depositions deposited on exposed ends of a plurality of internal electrodes in a component main body, the presence of the plating films may not only interfere with moisture release, but may also cause blisters or bulge defects in the plating films, while moisture such as a plating solution in the component main body is removed by evaporation. To avoid such problems, cuts to divide exposed ends into multiple sections are formed in extending sections of internal electrodes. Thus, plating films include slits extending in the stacking direction at locations corresponding to positions of the cuts. |
| US08508911B2 |
Electronic component and substrate module
A multilayer body includes first and second capacitance conductors and an internal conductor, which define a capacitor, provided therein. First and second external electrodes are respectively connected to the first and second capacitance conductors via first and second led out conductors. The internal conductor faces the first and second capacitance conductors. Third and fourth external electrodes are connected to the first capacitance conductor via third and fourth led out conductors. Fifth and sixth external electrodes are connected to the second capacitance conductor via fifth and sixth led out conductors. |
| US08508908B2 |
Electrohydrodynamic (EHD) fluid mover with field shaping feature at leading edge of collector electrodes
Small form-factor ion flow fluid movers that provide electrostatically operative surfaces in a flow channel adjacent to an emitter electrode, but upstream of a collector electrode or electrodes, can shape operative electric fields and influence ion flows in ways that accentuate downstream flow while minimizing upstream ion migration. In some cases, dielectric surfaces (or even electrically isolated conductive surfaces) along a flow channel adjacent to an emitter electrode can be configured to collect and retain an initial population of generated ions and thereafter electrostatically repel further ions. Depending on the configuration of such dielectric or electrically isolated conductive surfaces, these repelling electrostatic forces may dissuade ion migration or flow from sensitive but closely proximate components and/or may shape fields to enhance ion flows in a desired downstream direction. |
| US08508907B2 |
Method and device for collecting electrostatic charge from the atmosphere
A device collects electrostatic charge from the atmosphere and stores the electrostatic charge for further use. The device includes a primary array including a plurality of electrically-conducting collectors, a plurality of electrically-conducting inductors, a charge regulator, and a charge storage device. A secondary array can be added to improve the efficiency of the primary array. |
| US08508906B2 |
Device and method for identifying the type of control for a voltage-release or current-release switching device
A device for identifying a control mode for a voltage or current release of a voltage-release or current-release switching device includes at least one control unit having first and second control inputs. The control unit includes a signal detection device configured to detect a signal state at a first control input and a blocking device configured to disable the second control input when a control signal is detected at the first control input. |
| US08508905B2 |
Coil-driving apparatus of electronic magnetic contactor
A coil-driving apparatus of an electro magnetic contactor is disclosed, which replaces the main units in an analog scheme with those in a digital scheme using a PWM controller of low power consumption to reduce the number of the analog components, minimize power consumption, and controls a constant voltage that flows on the coil by receiving the feedback current flowing on the coil, whereby error and defect generation rates are reduced, and deterioration and burning of components are prevented. |
| US08508901B2 |
Overcurrent detection circuit
An overcurrent detection circuit in accordance with an exemplary aspect of the present invention includes a detection transistor, a potential difference setting unit, and a first transistor whose current value is controlled by the potential difference setting unit. Further, the potential difference setting unit includes a first depletion type transistor, a power-supply voltage being supplied to the drain of the first depletion type transistor, and the gate and source of the first depletion type transistor being connected to the gate of the first transistor, a second transistor, the drain and gate of the second transistor being connected to the gate of the first transistor, and a second depletion type transistor provided on the current path between the sources of the first transistor and the second transistor, the gate and drain of the second depletion type transistor being connected to the source of the detection transistor. |
| US08508895B2 |
Short circuit protection for sensor
This disclosure is directed to techniques for protecting a sensor from a short to a power supply. According to one example consistent with these techniques, a circuit or device may include a sensor unit and a short protection unit. The sensor unit may generate at least one signal indicative of at least one measured property. The sensor unit may be configured to communicate the at least one generated signal via an output node coupled to the sensor unit. The short protection unit may determine whether the output node is electrically coupled to a power supply input. The short protection unit may, if the output node is electrically coupled to the power supply input, provide at least one auxiliary load between the sensor unit and the output node, and thereby protect the sensor unit to prevent the sensor unit from operating undesirably and/or to prevent the sensor unit from damage. |
| US08508891B2 |
Trip unit providing remote electrical signal to remotely indicate that an arc reduction maintenance mode is remotely enabled, and electrical switching apparatus including the same
An electrical switching apparatus includes separable contacts; an operating mechanism structured to open and close the separable contacts; and a trip mechanism cooperating with the operating mechanism to trip open the separable contacts. The trip mechanism includes an input structured to receive a remote signal to remotely enable an arc reduction maintenance mode, a first circuit structured to enable the arc reduction maintenance mode in response to the received remote signal, and a second circuit structured to provide an electrical signal remote from the trip mechanism in order to remotely indicate that the arc reduction maintenance mode is remotely enabled. |
| US08508882B1 |
Spindle motor having magnetic circuit for stator and rotor magnet, and storage disk drive having the same
A spindle motor includes a base portion; a stator arranged above the base portion; a rotor hub including a cover portion positioned above the stator, and a side wall portion arranged to extend downward from an outer edge of the cover portion; a rotor magnet positioned radially outward of the stator, and fixed to an inner circumferential surface of the side wall portion of the rotor hub; and a bearing mechanism arranged to support the rotor hub and the rotor magnet to be rotatable. A height of the rotor magnet as measured in an axial direction is preferably in a range of about 2 mm to about 3 mm (both inclusive), and a height of a stator core of the stator as measured in the axial direction is preferably in a range of about 50% to about 75% (both inclusive) of the height of the rotor magnet. |
| US08508874B2 |
Process for forming a light beam path in a dielectric mirror
An optical mirror element includes an optically transmissive element having a first surface and a second surface, and a reflective coating layer on the first surface that defines a mirror surface. A first portion of the first surface does not include the reflective coating layer such that the first portion defines an optically transmissive window in the mirror surface. Q method of forming an optical mirror element having a window portion includes providing an optical element, masking a first portion of a first surface of the optical element, and thereafter applying a reflective coating to the first surface so as to define a reflective surface, wherein the masked portion defines a transmissive region in the reflective surface. The exposed portion of the first surface may be coated with an anti-reflective coating, either before or after the reflective coating is applied. |
| US08508871B2 |
Lens barrel and image capturing apparatus
Provided is a lens barrel comprising a lens holding member that holds a lens; a guide bar that has a magnetic pattern in which a pair of magnetic poles repeat in a longitudinal direction and that has the longitudinal direction thereof oriented in a direction of an optical axis of the lens to guide the lens holding section to move in the direction of the optical axis; a control portion that is disposed on an outer circumferential surface of the lens holding member and that includes a magnetic body generating magnetic force between itself and the magnetic pattern of the guide bar; and a drive coil that is arranged in a manner to not contact the guide bar and that generates magnetic drive force between itself and the guide bar. |
| US08508856B2 |
Immersion microscope objective and laser scanning microscope system using same
An immersion microscope objective formed of thirteen or fewer lens elements includes, in order from the object side, first and second lens groups of positive refractive power, a third lens group, a fourth lens group having negative refractive power with its image-side surface being concave, and a fifth lens group having positive refractive power with its object-side surface being concave. The first lens group includes, in order from the object side, a lens component that consists of a lens element of positive refractive power (when computed as being in air) and a meniscus lens element having its concave surface on the object side. Various conditions are satisfied to ensure that images of fluorescence, obtained when the immersion microscope objective is used in a laser scanning microscope that employs multiphoton excitation to observe a specimen, are bright and of high resolution. Various laser scanning microscopes are also disclosed. |
| US08508855B2 |
Projection lens and projection-type display apparatus using the lens
A projection lens is composed of a positive first lens group, a negative second lens group, and a positive third lens group, which are sequentially arranged from the magnification side of the projection lens, and the reduction side of the projection lens is telecentric. Further, the following formulas (1) and (2) are satisfied: 0.30≦d23/f3≦0.65 (1); and 10≦|D12/ff| (2), where d23: space in air between the second lens group and the third lens group, f3: focal length of the third lens group, D12: total length of the first lens group and the second lens group in the direction of an optical axis, and ff: length from the most magnification-side surface in the entire system of the projection lens to a magnification-side focus position of the entire system. |
| US08508852B2 |
Lens sheet, display panel, and electronic apparatus
To suppress bad shaping generated due to fusion of neighboring cylindrical lenses in a lens sheet formed by using an ultraviolet curable resin, for example. A lens sheet includes: a substrate formed with a transparent material; a plurality of protruded lines provided on the substrate in parallel at a specific pitch; and a plurality of cylindrical lenses, each of which is provided between the plurality of protruded lines on the substrate. The protruded line for forming the lens is designed to be constituted with a set of two lines, i.e., a left protruded line and a right protruded line, to suppress fusion of the neighboring lenses. |
| US08508851B2 |
Compact see-through display system
An optical system includes a display panel, an image former, a viewing window, a proximal beam splitter, and a distal beam splitter. The display panel is configured to generate a light pattern. The image former is configured to form a virtual image from the light pattern generated by the display panel. The viewing window is configured to allow outside light in from outside of the optical system. The virtual image and the outside light are viewable along a viewing axis extending through the proximal beam splitter. The distal beam splitter is optically coupled to the display panel and the proximal beam splitter and has a beam-splitting interface in a plane that is parallel to the viewing axis. A camera may also be optically coupled to the distal beam splitter so as to be able to receive a portion of the outside light that is viewable along the viewing axis. |
| US08508850B2 |
Multi-layered light diffusion plate and liquid crystal display device comprising the same
Disclosed herein is a multi-layered light diffusion plate, in which the multi-layered light diffusion plate is manufactured by coextruding a transparent layer comprising an amorphous transparent thermoplastic resin and a light diffusion layer comprising an amorphous transparent thermoplastic resin and transparent particles, so that the manufacturing process thereof is simple and efficient, and which has excellent light transmissivity and light diffusivity, high brightness, and high brightness uniformity, thereby improving viewing angle characteristics, and to a liquid crystal display device comprising the same. |
| US08508849B2 |
Multiphoton fluorescence filters
An optical filter is provided which includes a plurality of hard coating layers of alternating high and low refractive index provided on a substrate and has an associated first transmission band. The filter also includes at least one additional plurality of hard coating layers including high and low refractive index layers and Herpin equivalent layers sandwiched therebetween. The additional plurality of layers has an associated second transmission band that substantially coincides with the first transmission band, but provides additional blocking at wavelengths outside the first transmission band. Relatively wide transmission bands and high blocking over an extended range of wavelengths can be achieved such that the filter is suitable for use in multiphoton fluorescence systems. |
| US08508844B2 |
Hybrid fiber-MOPA
A master oscillator power-amplifier stages includes multiple stages of fiber-amplification with a final power amplifier stage in the form of a multi-pass amplifier. With a thin-disk gain medium in one example the thin-disk amplifier includes a common optical arrangement for providing multiple incidences of radiation to be amplified and multiple incidences of a pump-radiation beam on the thin-disk gain medium. |
| US08508843B2 |
Laser systems with doped fiber components
A laser amplifier includes a pump source and an optically active fiber having an input portion configured to receive a signal source and an output portion. The pump source is optically coupled to the optically active fiber. The laser amplifier also includes an output fiber optically coupled to the output portion of the optically active fiber. The output fiber includes a rare-earth element. The laser amplifier further includes a beam expansion section joined to the output fiber. |
| US08508842B2 |
Optical signal amplifier, method of optical amplification and optical network
An optical signal amplifier for use in optical networks operating in a ring configuration comprising a first doped optical fiber loop pumped by a first laser and a second optical fiber loop pumped by a second laser. |
| US08508841B2 |
Light conversion module and light source system including the same
A light conversion module includes a coupler for combining two light beams to form a combined light beam, a nonlinear crystal arranged to receive the combined light beam and configured to include a plurality of poling regions for performing successive nonlinear frequency mixing processes, a first optical device configured to focus the combined light beam onto the nonlinear crystal, a first moving stage carrying the nonlinear crystal and moving the nonlinear crystal for an adjustment of a focus position of the combined light beam on the nonlinear crystal, and an optical detector configured for measuring a power level of the light beam from the nonlinear crystal for the adjustment of the focus position of the combined light beam on the nonlinear crystal. |
| US08508836B2 |
Image pickup optical system and image pickup apparatus using the same
An image pickup optical system made of five lenses, includes in order from an object side, an aperture stop, a first lens L1 having a positive refracting power, a second lens L2 having a negative refracting power, a third lens L3 having a positive refracting power, a fourth lens L4 having a positive refracting power, and a fifth lens L5 having a negative refracting power. Moreover, an image pickup apparatus includes this image pickup optical system. |
| US08508834B2 |
Printable photovoltaic electrochromic device and module
A printable photovoltaic electrochromic device is provided. The device includes a transparent substrate, at least one thin-film solar cell on the transparent substrate, at least one single polarity electrochromic (EC) thin film, wherein the single polarity electrochromic thin film includes a single polarity electrochromic material and a polyelectrolyte. The thin-film solar cell at least includes an anode layer, a cathode layer, and a photoelectric conversion layer between the anode layer and cathode layer, wherein a portion of the anode layer or a portion of the cathode layer is exposed from the thin-film solar cell. The single polarity electrochromic thin film covers and contacts with both the cathode layer and the anode layer. |
| US08508833B2 |
Pixel unit of electrochromic display panel and driving method thereof
A pixel unit of an electrochromic display panel and a driving method thereof are described. The pixel unit includes a first substrate; a first electrode and a second electrode, on the first substrate; a first auxiliary counter electrode, on the first substrate and disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode; a first electrochromic material, on the first electrode; a second electrochromic material, on the second electrode; a second substrate, opposite to the first substrate; a third electrode, on the second substrate; a third electrochromic material, on the third electrode; and an electrolyte layer, between the first substrate and the second substrate. |
| US08508832B2 |
Electro-optic system configured to reduce a perceived color change
An electro-optic system is provided that includes a front element a rear element, and an electro-optic medium, the electro-optic medium is adapted to be in at least a high transmittance state and a low transmittance state. The electro-optic system further includes a display device in optical communication with the electro-optic element, the display device including at least one light source and is configured to emit at least a first primary and a second primary, the first and second primaries each having a first hue (hab) when viewed through the electro-optic element in approximately the high transmittance state and a second hue (hab′) when viewed through the electro-optic element in approximately the low transmittance state, wherein a change in the first and second hues (Δhab) for both first and second primaries is less than approximately 31 degrees. |
| US08508831B2 |
Mirror assembly for vehicle
A vehicular rearview mirror assembly includes a mirror casing, a reflective element and a mounting assembly for adjustably mounting the mirror assembly at a portion of the equipped vehicle. The reflective element has a front surface and a rear surface and a perimeter edge about its periphery and extending between the front and rear surfaces. The front surface generally faces a driver of the vehicle when the mirror assembly is normally mounted in the equipped vehicle. The rear surface of the reflective element may be attached to an attachment surface of an attachment plate or of the mirror casing to secure the reflective element relative to the mirror casing. The perimeter edge of the reflective element may be exposed and viewable by the driver of the vehicle when the reflective element is attached to the attachment surface and when the mirror assembly is normally mounted in the equipped vehicle. |
| US08508830B1 |
Quantum dot near-to-eye display
A multi-layer optical structure includes a pixel array layer, an addressing matrix layer, and a micro lens array. The pixel array layer includes an array of quantum dot pixels for emitting an image from a first side of the multi-layer optical structure. The addressing matrix layer adjoins the pixel array layer and includes electrically conductive signal lines to individual address and activate the quantum dot pixels to generate the image. The micro lens array includes micro lenses optically aligned with the quantum dot pixels in an emission path of the image to focus the image. |
| US08508829B2 |
Vehicle indication system having an optical system, having a first indication device and having a second indication device
A vehicle indication system is proposed having an optical system (1), having a first indication device (2) and having a second indication device (3), wherein the optical system is intended to indicate information, which is provided by the first indication device, in an at least partially transparent or translucent form, wherein the optical system is intended to indicate information, which is provided by the second indication device, in an at least partially reflective form, wherein the optical system has a first area (6), the light transmission coefficient and light reflection coefficient of which are variable, and wherein the optical system has a second area (4), the light reflection coefficient of which is provided in a reduced form by means of a non-reflective layer. |
| US08508828B2 |
Magnetic voice-coil shutter drive actuation system
This magnetic voice-coil shutter drive actuation system for an optical shutter having an aperture with at least one shutter blade includes an actuator operating to open/close the shutter blade when moved in opposing directions, and a moveable element that operates said actuator and can be a moveable voice coil or a moveable permanent magnet. The voice coil is activatable to generate an electromagnetic flux in opposing polar orientations to react against the magnetic flux produced by the permanent magnet. The moveable element can be located in a position peripheral of the aperture and not surrounding the aperture, or in a position peripheral of the aperture and surrounding the aperture. The magnetic flux produced by the permanent magnet and the electromagnetic flux produced by the voice coil define magnetic axes that are parallel to each other and to a central axis for the aperture. |
| US08508822B2 |
Decoloring device consecutively decoloring image on sheet, management device causing decoloring device to consecutively decoloring image on sheet, and decoloring system including decoloring device and management device
A communication unit transmits image data of a preceding sheet scanned to a management device communicating with a decoloring device and receives from a management device determination data which is produced by the management device based on the image data and indicates at least whether or not the preceding sheet is reusable and receives ability data of the management device or reception time indication data. A control unit conveys the preceding sheet to a predetermined conveyance destination based on the determination data and feeds sheets at a timing at which the leading end of a following sheet does not run into the tail end of the preceding sheet even if the preceding sheet is held until the determination data is received based on the ability data or the reception time indication data. |
| US08508821B2 |
Sheet feeding apparatus, image forming apparatus and sheet feeding method
A sheet feeding apparatus is disclosed that includes a plurality of size sensors configured to be arranged in line and to detect a sheet set into a predetermined position; a feeding part configured to feed the sheet set into the predetermined position to a scan position; and a controller configured to control the feeding part to feed the sheet based on two detect signals output from two size sensors among the plurality of the size sensors. |
| US08508818B2 |
Image reading apparatus and image forming apparatus
An image reading apparatus includes a document feed unit that can adopt a first attitude to sandwich a document against a document table and a second attitude to release the document. An attitude detection unit detects the attitude of the document feed unit. A document detection unit detects whether a document is on a placement section of the document feed unit. An input acceptance unit accepts a selection input indicating whether a document on the document table is a read object document when attitudes of the document feed unit have been detected in a second-to-first sequence by the attitude detection unit when a document is detected on the document placement section. A control unit sets a document on the document table as the current read object, when the input acceptance unit accepts a selection input indicating that the document on the document table is to be a read object document. |
| US08508817B2 |
Image reading apparatus and control method thereof
An image reading apparatus enabling a user to place originals on any of sheet feed trays without confirming requested orientation of the originals, either front facing or back facing. Image data of an original fed from a first sheet feed tray and read by a first reading unit is processed handling as image data of a front surface of the original, and image data of an original fed from the first sheet feed tray and read by a second reading unit is processed handling as image data of a back surface thereof. Image data of an original fed from a second sheet feed tray and read by the first reading unit is processed handling as image data of the back surface of the original, and image data of an original fed from the second sheet feed tray and read by the second reading unit is processed handling as image data of the front surface thereof. |
| US08508814B2 |
Image reading apparatus
An image reading apparatus for reading an image of a document optically by illuminating a document with light emitted from a plurality of light emitting elements arranged linearly and by reading light reflected from the document. The image reading apparatus has a first light emitting element for emitting light in a first direction, a second light emitting element for emitting light in a second direction and one substrate for supporting the first light emitting element and the second light emitting element thereon. |
| US08508810B2 |
Image reading apparatus and image forming apparatus
An image reading apparatus includes: a driving unit that drives a photoelectric conversion element by a clock; a signal generating unit that generates an analog signal; an amplification inversion unit that amplifies an alternating current component of the analog signal with an amplification factor by a setting value that is set from outside, and that switches the alternating current component between inversion and non-inversion; a signal superimposing unit that superimposes the analog image signal on an analog signal that is output from the amplification inversion unit; and a controlling unit that converts analog image signal that is superimposed by the signal superimposing unit into a digital image signal by using the analog-digital converter, and that controls the amplification factor and the inversion and non-inversion of the amplification inversion unit based on a feature amount that appears on the digital image signal. |
| US08508809B2 |
Image reading apparatus and image reading method
An image reading apparatus that optically reads a document includes: multiple line sensors provided approximately parallel to each other and each having light-receiving elements arranged in line form, each line sensor capturing respective line-shaped regions spanning in the main scanning direction of the document in respective color components; a movement unit that causes the positional relationship between the document and the multiple line sensors to move relative to the sub scanning direction that is orthogonal to the main scanning direction; a color skew adjustment unit that adjusts positional skew in the sub scanning direction in scan data of each of the color components captured by the multiple line sensors in synchronization with the movement caused by the movement unit, in accordance with an offset amount based on the distance between each of the multiple line sensors. |
| US08508806B2 |
Communication device capable of displaying preview of transmission data
An image data is generated by scanning an original. The image data is converted and stored into a RAM. Preview data is generated from the converted data and then displayed on a display unit. When a transmission command is received after the display unit displays the display data, the converted data is transmitted to a prescribed destination. |
| US08508803B2 |
Image reading apparatus and image reading method including a dividing unit that divides image data into vertical-streak-correction subject data
An image acquiring unit reads an original and outputs whole image data of the original including a vertical streak portion corresponding to a location of a foreign material on a read surface of the reading unit. A storing unit stores therein the image data output from the image acquiring unit. A dividing unit defines an edge portion of the image data and divides the image data into vertical-streak-correction subject data and image portion data. A vertical-streak correcting unit performs a correction process on the vertical-streak-correction subject data to compensate a degradation in image quality due to the foreign material. |
| US08508800B2 |
Image forming apparatus and method of color misregistration correction
A length L of the test pattern string is determined so as to satisfy a condition L≦{P−(Q1+Q2)}×V, where a time Q is a total time of a time Q1 for which the test pattern string is transferred from an exposure position of the test pattern string to a sensor and a time Q2 from when the test pattern is detected by the sensor until a color misregistration correction value calculated on the basis of a result of detecting is reflected in image formation; a time P is a time from a timing of starting to write the test pattern string to a timing of starting to write an image in which the correction value should be reflected; and a driving speed of a second image carrier is V. |
| US08508795B2 |
Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and computer program product for inserting information into in image data
An image processing apparatus obtains image data containing a plurality of pieces of character information, obtains corresponding information that corresponds to the character information contained in the obtained image data, obtains, using the character information, area information indicating an area to which the corresponding information is to be inserted, and determines an insertion style of the corresponding information based on the obtained area information. |
| US08508794B2 |
Image forming using warm and cold black tone inks
An image forming apparatus sets one of a plurality of modes including a monochrome mode of forming a monochrome image, converts a multivalued luminance signal into signal values of color material amounts to be used to form the image and forms the image using color materials based on the signal values. The color materials used in the forming when the monochrome mode is set include an achromatic color material and at least two auxiliary color materials which have hues opposite to each other and a chroma larger than that of the achromatic color material. |
| US08508792B2 |
Image processing apparatus, an image processing method, and a program thereof for handling a copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image
In prior art, there are some occasions where functions of a copy-forgery-inhibited pattern are impaired when printed on a sheet after rotation because of the level difference appearing between the density level of a latent image portion and the density level of a background portion of a copy-forgery-inhibited pattern. To cope with the problem, the image processing apparatus which has a generating unit for generating copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image data and a rotation unit for rotating the generated copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image data, wherein the generating unit generates the copy-forgery-inhibited pattern image data to be rotated by the rotation unit in accordance with a rotation angle in the rotation unit. |
| US08508790B2 |
Image writing system, writing apparatus, display medium, image writing method, computer readable medium for image writing and computer data signal for image writing
An image writing system includes: a display medium displaying an image rewritably recorded according to an external force and holding the image after the external force is removed, the display medium including a memory externally readably storing capability information on a capability of displaying an image on the display medium; and a writing apparatus applying the external force to the display medium so as to write the image into the display medium, the writing apparatus including: a reading section reading the capability information from the memory; a display-capability presenting section presenting information including the capability information, a list of images to be written, and display attributes of the respective images; an image-selection accepting section accepting a selection of an image to be written into the display medium; and a writing section applying the external force to the display medium so as to write the selected image into the display medium. |
| US08508788B2 |
Printing index images and file information together
An image forming apparatus is provided with a data retrieving unit that retrieves index image data and associating file information corresponding to files from a recording medium. The index image data and associating file information are allocated to a plurality of arrangement sections. The index image data and associating file information may be printed on a printing sheet in accordance with a predetermined layout. A judging unit is provided to judge whether the associating file information is less than or equal to a predetermined length. The associating file information which is longer than the predetermined length is normally printed incompletely so as to be printed within the arrangement section. A layout modifying unit is provided to modify the predetermined layout for the arrangement section if the associating file information is longer than the predetermined length so that the associating file information is printed completely on the printing sheet. |
| US08508787B2 |
System and method for automatic translation of documents scanned by multifunctional printer machines
A method and system for translating documents with the use of a multifunctional printer machine, including capturing an image of a document; determining regions of the document captured that include original text; performing optical character recognition of the regions of the document captured that include the original text; specifying a source language corresponding to the original text; specifying one or more target languages corresponding to translated text; performing language translation of the original text into translated text; selecting one or more page layout templates having multiple pre-designated areas for receiving the original text and the translated text; and outputting one or more printouts in accordance with the one or more page layout templates selected, including at least an area designating (i) the original text in the source language and (ii) the translated text in the one or more target languages. |
| US08508786B2 |
System and method of billing for scanning service costs
A system and method of billing for scanning service costs is provided to examine content of a page and apply a cost function to approximate the cost of scanning the page. Examining the page includes detecting an object in the page, determining a type of the detected object, determining an approximate file size of the page, and determining an approximate area of coverage of the detected object within the page. A usage profile of each type of detected object is calculated and stored. The cost function uses the detected object, the approximate file size, the approximate area of coverage, and a weight value associated with the type of detected object to approximate the cost of the page. When costs are calculated over a period of time, the weight value of each type of detected object may be adjusted based on the usage profile for each type of detected object. |
| US08508783B2 |
Printer that prints coded information under control of a processor
A printer includes a connection port that connects an external storage device to the printer, a command input unit that inputs coded information or text-form information, and a processor that executes a command corresponding to coded information or text-form information inputted in the command input unit by using data stored in the external storage device connected to the connection port. |
| US08508782B2 |
Method of securing printers against malicious software
A method for securing a computer device against malicious code, the method including the steps of: executing a computer program on the computer device, the computer device having a central processing unit, which carries out instructions of the computer program, and wherein at least a portion of the computer program is executed by one or more tasks, each of the one or more tasks having a task stack associated therewith; and managing the central processing unit such that the central processing unit does not execute machine code from the task stacks associated with each of the one or more task so as to secure the computer device against malicious code from the task stack. |
| US08508781B2 |
Image forming apparatus which determines necessity of storing print data
In the image forming apparatus, when the document data is developed to generate the print data in order to print out by the document data, the possibility of repeated requests to print out by the document data is determined by whether or not the document data is stored in the shared directory, or whether or not the document data is attached to the electronic mail distributed to a plurality of people. If the need of storing the document data has been determined, the document data is stored in the image forming apparatus. Upon receipt of a request to print out by the same document data as this document data, the stored print data is used for printing. |
| US08508780B2 |
Scanner apparatus capable of optimal transmission and saving of image data
When a PC as a transmission destination and a shared folder as a saving destination are designated and start of scanning is instructed, a scanner apparatus scans an original, confirms state of activation of the PC and stores the scan data temporarily in a storage unit until the PC is activated. When the PC is activated and transmission becomes possible, the scan data that has been stored in the storage unit is transmitted to the PC and saved in the designated shared folder. |
| US08508777B2 |
Printing system and control method thereof for executing printing and non-printing processes
The present invention provides a printing system provided with a printing apparatus and a post-processing apparatus, and a control method thereof, wherein, when an instruction is given to execute an off-line job in which a post-process by the post-processing apparatus is performed without printing by the printing apparatus (S11), a screen for selecting an off-line job using the post-processing apparatus can be displayed by the second user interface of the post-processing apparatus and the off-line job can be selected (S12), and, in response to an instruction to start the off-line job from the first user interface of the printing apparatus (S16), the off-line process is executed (S17 and S18). |
| US08508773B2 |
Media access control address installation for tandem print engine configurations
The present disclosure provides a method of assigning media access control (MAC) addresses to image paths for a printing system. The method comprises: initializing a MAC address to each image path board in the printing system wherein the printing system includes at least two print engines each having an image path board; modifying a card cage enclosure to include a bit selector for each image path board; and, creating a unique IP address for each MAC address including generating a unique octet for each MAC address. A slot ID is used for the generating of the unique octet for each MAC address having a standard base value. |
| US08508771B2 |
Control of job information recording based on whether logged in user changes
A job processing apparatus that is capable of recording an execution history of a job appropriately for each user even if a user does not spontaneously instruct a change of a user who operates an apparatus by a key operation etc. A receiving unit receives an operation of a user via an operation unit. A determining unit determines, when the receiving unit receives an operation, whether a user who performs the operation is identical to the user who has operated the operation, without inputting information for specifying the user. A control unit controls, when the determining unit determines that the user who performs the operation is not identical to the user who has operated the operation unit, so as not to keep an execution history of a job that is instructed to execute as an execution history of the user who has operated the operation. |
| US08508765B2 |
Method and system for transmitting scanned data to host from network scanner
A method and system for transmitting scanned data from a network scanner to a host are provided, in which a port is set in the host to receive the scanned data when the host and the scanner are connected via a network, the host is accessed from the scanner to detect port information regarding the set port, and the scanned data is transmitted from the scanner to the host via the port corresponding to the detected port information. Therefore, the inconvenience of having to search a scanner from a host and then receiving scanned data when using a network scanner is eliminated and the scanned data can be directly transmitted from the network scanner to the host. |
| US08508763B2 |
Image forming apparatus, user restriction method and use history generation method
An image forming apparatus is provided, in which the image forming apparatus includes a user database in which user identification information for identifying an user of the image forming apparatus is registered, an operation panel for receiving a key operation input, a secure program used for determining whether a user service can be provided on the basis of the user identification information in the user database and another user identification information input by the user. |
| US08508761B2 |
Printing apparatus executing a print operation based on print data and a setting screen and method
A method used by printing apparatus executing a job based on a print setting accepted via an operation unit including accepting a stop instruction for stopping a print operation for the job via the operation unit and displaying a setting screen reflecting a print setting made for the job for which the print operation is stopped, in response to acceptance of a stop instruction. |
| US08508760B2 |
Output device capable of preventing the leakage of confidential information
An output device, such as a multifunction peripheral, prints data transmitted from a portable terminal device via contactless communication in such a manner as to prevent leakage of the data from a medium on which the data is printed, while the convenience of outputting data via wireless communication is maintained. A multifunction peripheral includes plural communication units having different communication areas. A determination unit of the multifunction peripheral identifies one of the communication units that receives the data from the portable terminal device. Based on the type of the identified communication unit, such as a Bluetooth communication unit, it is determined whether the portable terminal device is within a predetermined communication area. When the portable terminal device is within the predetermined communication area, a granting unit grants output of the received data from the output device. |
| US08508759B2 |
Communication apparatus for displaying a screen using screen data and program of communication apparatus
A communication apparatus includes a first reception unit which receives an instruction from a server, a second reception unit which receives an instruction from a path other than the server, an executing unit which executes a function when the first reception unit receives a first execution instruction from the server or when the second reception unit receives a second execution instruction from the path other than the server, and a display control unit which displays a display instruction correspondence screen when the first reception unit receives a display instruction from the server, and which displays an execution correspondence screen when the executing unit executes the function. During a time period while the display instruction correspondence screen is being displayed, the display control unit displays the execution correspondence screen when receiving the first execution instruction, but doesn't display the execution correspondence screen when receiving the second execution instruction. |
| US08508750B2 |
Friction-coefficient estimating device and friction-coefficient estimating method
A friction-coefficient estimating device is configured to estimate friction coefficient of the surface of a medium in a form of a sheet by irradiating a light on the surface and by detecting specularly-reflected light component of a reflected light and a diffusely-reflected light intensity. The friction-coefficient estimating device comprises an irradiating unit including a first irradiating unit and a second irradiating unit, a specularly-reflected light receiving unit including a first specularly-reflected light receiving unit that receives a first specularly-reflected light component of a reflected light and detects a first specularly-reflected light intensity and a second specularly-reflected light receiving unit that receives a second specularly-reflected light component of a reflected light and detects a second specularly-reflected light intensity, and a diffusely-reflected light receiving unit that receives a diffusely-reflected light component of a reflected light and detects a diffusely-reflected light intensity, and a control unit that estimates a friction coefficient of the surface based on a first reflected-light intensity coefficient and a second reflected-light intensity coefficient. |
| US08508749B2 |
Method of measuring a deviation of an optical surface from a target shape using interferometric measurement results
A method of measuring a deviation of an optical surface from a target shape and a method of manufacturing an optical element. This method of measuring the deviation includes: performing a first interferometric measurement using a first diffractive measurement structure, which is arranged to cover a first area of the optical surface, to provide a first interferometric measurement result, performing a second interferometric measurement using a second diffractive measurement structure, which is arranged to cover a second area of the optical surface different from the first area, to provide a second interferometric measurement result, and determining a deviation of the optical surface from the target shape. |
| US08508747B2 |
Systems and methods for optically generated trigger multiplication
Systems and methods for providing trigger signals in an optical interrogator, wherein multiple triggers are generated within each period of a varying reference signal, and wherein the triggers are evenly spaced according to the wavenumber of the reference signal. In one embodiment, an optical frequency domain reflectometry system provides a laser beam to a reference interferometer to produce a reference signal. This signal is passed through a 4×4 optical coupler which splits the signal into a first signal and a second signal that is 90 degrees out of phase with the first signal. These signals are converted to electrical signals, and a trigger unit generates triggers at points at which the two electrical signals have zero-crossings, and at which the magnitudes of the signals are equal. The resulting triggers remain evenly spaced within the period of the reference signals, even when the period is changed. |
| US08508745B2 |
System, method and apparatus for a micromachined interferometer using optical splitting
A Mach-Zehnder MEMS interferometer is achieved using two half plane beam splitters formed at respective edges of a first medium. The first beam splitter is optically coupled to receive an incident beam and operates to split the incident beam into two beams, a first one propagating in the first medium towards the second beam splitter and a second one propagating in a second medium. A moveable mirror in the second medium reflects the second beam back towards the second beam splitter to cause interference of the two beams. |
| US08508743B2 |
Crankshaft testing method
In a crankshaft testing method for the classification testing of at least one bearing surface of a crankshaft or the like, a reflection of a reference object at the bearing surface to be tested (reflection image) is detected by at least one sensor, using a sensor system. The detected reflection image is evaluated with regard to its contrast, and the crankshaft is classified as “unsatisfactory” when the contrast is below a predefined or predefinable threshold value. |
| US08508742B2 |
Integrated shear-vertical surface acoustic wave and surface plasmon resonance sensing device and method
A device and method detect a feature of a fluid or a target element in the fluid by contacting the fluid to a sensing surface on a substrate. A mechanical wave comprising shear-vertical wave components is propagated through the substrate to mix the fluid, conduct desorption of at least one non-target element from the sensing surface, and/or impede adsorption of the non-target element to the sensing surface. The feature of the fluid or the target element in the fluid is then detected on the sensing surface, wherein the detection is accelerated by the above-mentioned mixing of the fluid, desorption of at least one non-target element from the sensing surface, and/or impeding of the adsorption of the non-target element to the sensing surface. |
| US08508738B2 |
Nitrogen oxide sensing element, nitrogen oxide sensor, nitrogen oxide concentration determination device using same, and method for determining nitrogen oxide concentration
The nitrogen oxide sensing element of the present invention is such that a sensing film (11) is formed on the surface of a substrate (12a), the sensing film including a polymer containing as dispersed therein a porphyrin containing cobalt as a central metal, or a single derivative having a porphyrin skeleton containing cobalt as a central metal or a mixture of derivatives each having a porphyrin skeleton containing cobalt as a central metal; thus, this sensing element is capable of determining the concentration of NO with high sensitivity and satisfactory accuracy under the condition that the cobalt porphyrin is not affected by reaction inhibitors such as O2 and CO even in the atmosphere. |
| US08508737B2 |
Spatial frequency optical measurement instrument and method
A spatial frequency optical measurement instrument is provided according to the invention. The instrument includes a spatial frequency mask positioned in a light path and configured to encode light with spatial frequency information, a light receiver positioned to receive the light encoded with the spatial frequency information, wherein the light encoded with the spatial frequency information has been interacted with a sample material, and a processing system coupled to the light receiver and configured to determine a change in the spatial frequency information due to the interaction of the light with the sample material. |
| US08508736B2 |
Tunable wavelength illumination system
A lithographic apparatus has an alignment system including a radiation source configured to convert narrow-band radiation into continuous, flat and broad-band radiation. An acoustically tunable narrow pass-band filter filters the broad-band radiation into narrow-band linearly polarized radiation. The narrow-band radiation may be focused on alignment targets of a wafer so as to enable alignment of the wafer. In an embodiment, the filter is configured to modulate an intensity and wavelength of radiation produced by the radiation source and to have multiple simultaneous pass-bands. The radiation source generates radiation that has high spatial coherence and low temporal coherence. |
| US08508731B2 |
Spectrometer capable of eliminating side-tail effects
A spectrometer capable of eliminating side-tail effects includes a body and an input section, a diffraction grating, an image sensor unit and a wave-guiding device, which are mounted in the body. The input section receives a first optical signal and outputs a second optical signal travelling along a first light path. The diffraction grating receives the second optical signal and separates the second optical signal into a plurality of spectrum components, including a specific spectrum component travelling along a second light path. The image sensor unit receives the specific spectrum component. The wave-guiding device includes first and second reflective surfaces opposite to each other and limits the first light path and the second light path between them to guide the second optical signal and the specific spectrum component. The first and second reflective surfaces are separated from a light receiving surface of the image sensor unit by a predetermined gap. |
| US08508729B2 |
Compact, low cost Raman monitor for single substances
Apparatus for performing Raman analysis may include a laser source module, a beam delivery and signal collection module, a spectrum analysis module, and a digital signal processing module. The laser source module delivers a laser beam to the beam delivery and signal collection module. The beam delivery and signal collection module delivers the laser source beam to a sample, collects Raman scattered light scattered from the sample, and delivers the collected Raman scattered light to the spectrum analysis module. The spectrum analysis module demultiplexes the Raman scattered light into discrete Raman bands of interest, detects the presence of signal energy in each of the Raman bands, and produces a digital signal that is representative of the signal energy present in each of the Raman bands. The digital signal processing module is adapted to perform a Raman analysis of the sample. |
| US08508727B2 |
Defects inspecting apparatus and defects inspecting method
An inspecting apparatus and method including first and second illuminating units for illuminating a surface of a specimen to be inspected with different incident angles and first and second detecting optical units arranged at different elevation angle directions to the surface of the specimen for detecting images of the specimen illuminated by the first and second illuminating units. |
| US08508723B2 |
Laser wind velocimeter with multiple radiation sources
A system and method for measuring wind velocities are provided. A laser wind velocimeter with a radiation source includes a fiber laser. All optical signals, transmitted and received, are conveyed by optical fibers. An amplifier amplifies a source laser, which is then transmitted to one or more transceivers. The one or more transceivers, each projecting along a different axis, and each with a single optical fiber input/output interface act as both the transmission device to focus the radiation at a target region, and as the receiving system for collecting reflected radiation. The one or more transceivers transmit radiation to the target region. A portion of the reflected radiation collected by the receiving system is analyzed to determine the Doppler shift, which can me used to measure wind velocity. |
| US08508719B2 |
Method for measuring the heights of components based on laser ranging
Provided is a method for measuring the heights of components based on laser ranging, including the following steps of: 1) a laser ranger uniformly moving along a test route and measuring the distance from each test point to the laser ranger; 2) the laser ranger transmitting the measurement result and the measurement time to a storage unit; 3) the storage unit sending the received measurement result and the received measurement time to an analysis unit; and 4) according to the data sent by the storage unit and referring to the test route and the position of each test point, the analysis unit calculating the height of each test point and outputting it. The method of the present invention omits the time of determining the position of each point and the start-stop time of the laser ranger at each test point so that saving the large amount of the measurement time. |
| US08508716B2 |
Homogenizer
A two-stage homogenizer comprising a first homogenizer stage and a second homogenizer stage. The first homogenizer stage includes a pair of microlens arrays and associated focusing optics. The second homogenizer stage includes a second pair of microlens arrays and associated focusing optics. The second homogenizer stage is positioned to receive radiation which is output from the first homogenizer stage. |
| US08508715B2 |
Lithographic apparatus and device manufacturing method utilizing data filtering
An apparatus and method are used to form patterns on a substrate. The apparatus comprises a projection system, a patterning device, a low-pass filter, and a data manipulation device. The projection system projects a beam of radiation onto the substrate as an array of sub-beams. The patterning device modulates the sub-beams to substantially produce a requested dose pattern on the substrate. The low-pass filter operates on pattern data derived from the requested dose pattern in order to form a frequency-clipped target dose pattern that comprises only spatial frequency components below a selected threshold frequency. The data manipulation device produces a control signal comprising spot exposure intensities to be produced by the patterning device, based on a direct algebraic least-squares fit of the spot exposure intensities to the frequency-clipped target dose pattern. In various examples, filters can also be used. |
| US08508707B2 |
Liquid crystal display device
In one embodiment, a liquid crystal display device includes a liquid crystal display panel having an active area for displaying images. The active area has pixels arranged in a matrix shape. The liquid crystal display device includes a first substrate having pixel electrodes of the pixels, a second substrate having a plurality of colored layers arranged side by side, and a counter electrode arranged on the colored layers facing the respective pixel electrodes. A seal element is arranged on a seal portion surrounding the active area and attaching the first substrate and the second substrate. A liquid crystal layer is held between the first substrate and the second substrate. The second substrate includes a convex portion arranged between the seal element and the active area, and the convex portion is formed of the same material as one of the plurality of colored layers. |
| US08508699B2 |
Transflective LCD unit
A transflective LCD unit includes a liquid crystal (LC) layer: first and second substrates sandwiching therebetween the LC layer to define an array of pixels each including a reflective area and a transmissive area; an electrode assembly for driving the LC layer such that the LC layer in the reflective area is driven in a longitudinal-electric-field mode and the LC layer in the transmissive area is driven in a lateral-electric-field mode; and a reverse-tilt control member for controlling a reverse tilt area in which a reverse tilt of LC molecules occurs near the boundary between the reflective area and the transmissive area. |
| US08508687B2 |
Display device
A display device has a display panel, a backlight adjacent a first surface of the panel, a blocker adjacent a second surface of the panel, and at least one bracket between the panel and backlight. An edge of the second surface of the panel is exposed, the first and second surfaces are substantially parallel, at least one bracket is coupled to the first surface without overlapping an active region of the panel that displays an image, and the blocker does not overlap the active region of the panel and overlaps the bracket along an axis passing through the panel. The blocker is visible at a position in front of the panel. |
| US08508686B2 |
Display system
A display system includes a housing member which has space therein, a plurality of light source units which are placed in the space, a diffusion member which is disposed on the light source units, a liquid crystal display panel which is disposed on the diffusion member, an infrared camera unit which is interposed between the liquid crystal display panel and the diffusion member and photograph a front region of the liquid crystal display panel, and a plurality of infrared light sources which emit infrared light to the front region of the liquid crystal display panel. |
| US08508684B2 |
Backlight module and liquid crystal display module
A backlight module includes a tray, a light guide plate, a lighting device, and an optical film set. The tray includes a bottom plate and a side wall connecting an edge of the bottom plate. The side wall includes a plurality of wall portions connected to one another. Some of the wall portions are perpendicular to the bottom plate, and the others are parallel to the bottom plate. The light guide plate is disposed on the bottom plate. The lighting device is disposed at a light incident side of the light guide plate. The optical film set disposed on the light guide plate leans against the side wall. |
| US08508683B2 |
Liquid crystal display and panel therefor
A flat panel display having an improved picture quality is disclosed. In on embodiment, a first pixel electrode and a second pixel electrode are formed in each subpixel area. The electrodes enclose an open space (gap) such that their outer boundary has a substantially rectangular shape. The flat panel display may also include a capacitance electrode coupled to the second pixel electrode to form a coupling capacitor. In use, the coupling capacitor operates such that a magnitude of a voltage applied to the first pixel electrode is lower than an applied data voltage, and a magnitude of a voltage applied to the second pixel electrode is higher than an applied voltage. The different voltages operate such that a tilt direction of LC molecules disposed above the first pixel electrode differs from a tilt direction of LC molecules disposed above the second pixel electrode. |
| US08508679B2 |
Semi-transparent display apparatus
A semitransparent display (100), suitable for use with an electronic device (700), is provided. The semitransparent display (100), in one embodiment, includes a cholesteric liquid crystal display layer (101) and a translucent electroluminescent layer (102), such as an organic light emitting diode device. Control circuitry (109) is coupled to each layer, and is configured to selectively actuate each layer. The cholesteric liquid crystal display layer (101) can be operated in any of a planar mode (201), a focal conic mode (202), or a homeotropic mode (203). Segments of the cholesteric liquid crystal display layer (101) can be selectively actuated so as to hide and reveal user actuation targets. Capacitive sensors (620, 621) can be included so that the semitransparent display (100) works as a touch sensitive user interface. A user can see an object, such as a hand (105) or stylus, from above the semitransparent display (100) when the hand (105) or stylus is placed beneath the semitransparent display (100). |
| US08508675B2 |
Liquid crystal projector that includes an inorganic polarizer
A liquid crystal projector includes: an illumination system; a liquid crystal optical element; an inorganic polarizer arranged on the emission side of the liquid crystal optical element; and a projection system arranged on the emission side of the inorganic polarizer, the inorganic polarizer includes a substrate, a plurality of reflective layers arranged on the substrate, a dielectric layer formed on each reflective layer, and an inorganic particulate layer formed on the dielectric layer to be shifted in a first direction from a center line that bisects the corresponding reflective layer in a short-side direction, at least one of a optical axis of the illumination system and a optical axis of the projection system is shifted with respect to a center axis of the liquid crystal optical element. |
| US08508674B2 |
Optically intelligent image sensing device
An optically intelligent image sensing device is provided. By applying different potentials across different electrode sections in the image sensing device, the electric field profiles of the corresponding liquid crystal layer sections bend the lights passing through the liquid crystal layer sections in a predetermined manner. In one embodiment, all of a certain color light entering the image sensing device can be bent towards a color filter for the specific color, thereby entering the light sensor for the specific color light. Accordingly, the optically intelligent image sensing device has improved optical efficiency. An arrangement for an array of different electrode and light sensing sections in the image sensing device is also provided as an example for how each electrode may be connected to the optically intelligent image sensing device control signals. An example using the present optically intelligent image sensing device to improve the optical efficiency of an image capturing device is also described. |
| US08508672B2 |
System and method for improving video image sharpness
A system for, and method of, improving video image sharpness and a continuous-light-emitting video display system employing the system or the method. In one embodiment, the system for improving video image sharpness includes: (1) a sub-frame generator configured to receive a frame of a video image and generate plural sub-frames therefrom and (2) a spatial filter, associated with the sub-frame generator and configured to cause the plural sub-frames to be spatially filtered with respect to one another based on a display sequence thereof. |
| US08508667B2 |
Image enhancing device, image enhancing method, image enhancing program and signal processing device
In at least one embodiment of the present invention, quality of image is improved by sufficiently sharpening the image through an appropriate high-frequency compensation with a simple arrangement, not only for still images but also for moving images and even if the images have already undergone image enlarging processes. In at least one embodiment, an HPF extracts high-frequency components from an input image signal. A square operator generates a squared signal by squaring the first signal. A first differentiator generates a first differentiation signal by differentiating the squared signal. The second differentiator generates a second differentiation signal by differentiating the input image signal. A multiplier generates a second signal by multiplying the first differentiation signal by the second differentiation signal. An adder generates an output image signal by adding the second signal to the input image signal, as a compensation signal. |
| US08508664B2 |
Method and apparatus for monitoring another video source
The present invention provides a method for monitoring another video source in addition to a current video source. One method according to the present invention comprises outputting a first video signal provided from a first contents source (for example, a broadcasting channel) and displaying a video from a second video signal provided from a second contents source intermittently with a video from the first video signal on a single screen. During the displaying, a multi-view displaying operation, in which the video from the second video signal is displayed together with the video from the first video signal on the single screen for a first time period, and a single-view displaying operation, in which the video from the first video signal is displayed alone on the single screen for a second time period longer than the first time period, are repeated in an alternate manner. |
| US08508663B2 |
Electronic device capable of wired connection to an external device having a power-save mode
An electronic device has a plurality of wired-connection terminals, a selection portion that selects one of the plurality of wired-connection terminals for input of source data, and a transmission portion that wiredly transmits a command requesting a shift to a normal-operation mode to another electronic device having a power-save mode after switching of input by selection by the selection portion. The plurality of wired-connection terminals are all of an identical type for wired connection to another electronic device having a power-save mode. |
| US08508661B1 |
Enhanced deinterlacing using predictors from motion estimation engine
An apparatus and method for generating predictors performs motion estimation of a target macroblock in a target field against data segments in reference fields. The same motion estimation engine is used to perform various image processing operations to efficiently use resources of the apparatus. Different reference fields are used depending on modes of operation. In a deinterlacing mode, deinterlacing is performed using directional interpolation, recursive motion compensated deinterlacing, and motion adaptive deinterlacing. |
| US08508656B2 |
Control of a dynamic image sensor
A method and a circuit for controlling a dynamic image sensor defining, for each image, several successive time intervals of exposure of photodiode cells, starting from successive decreasing reset levels, wherein the time intervals of exposure of the image respect a homogeneous distribution of the amount of cells in ranges of brightness levels. |
| US08508653B2 |
Autofocus control circuit, autofocus control method, and image pickup apparatus
An autofocus control circuit, includes a focusing unit determining an in-focus location of a subject image based on a contrast evaluation value of a compressed image data under a first environment, and based on a size of the compressed image data under a second environment. |
| US08508651B2 |
Image stabilizing apparatus, image pick-up apparatus and image stabilizing method
An image stabilizing apparatus includes a motion vector calculating part that calculates a motion vector between a plurality of images including a displacement caused by a motion of an image-pickup apparatus, a shake-correction parameter calculating part that receives the motion vector as input to calculate a shake correction amount, and an image transforming part that performs geometric transformation of the image in accordance with the shake correction amount. The shake-correction parameter calculating part performs variation amount calculation, variation amount correction and correction amount calculation based on the motion information between the plurality of images. The image stabilizing apparatus preserves a motion in video from an intended camera work and allows image stabilization for an unintended shake. |
| US08508647B2 |
Secure module connector
The module connector can accommodate a miniaturized module such as a camera module and reliably fix the module in an electrically connected state, and make the connector itself in lower profile. With this connector (100), a housing (110) has a concave container (110a) that accommodates an inserted camera module (200) in which a plurality of pads are disposed its bottom face. A contact (130) has: an arm (131) that projects from the bottom face of the container (110a) to the interior of the container (110a) and that elastically deforms; and, at the tip of the arm (131), a contact point part (133) that is swingable in the insertion direction of the camera module (200) by means of elastic deformation of the arm (131) and that contacts a pad. A shield cover (120) is attached to the housing (110) detachably covering the accommodating part (110a) and abuts on an upper face (211) of the camera module (200) urged in a direction opposite to the insertion direction by the arms (131) of the contacts (130), to sandwich the camera module (200) in combination with the contacts (130). |
| US08508646B2 |
Camera with internal polarizing filter
The present invention relates to cameras and other image capture devices. More particularly, the present invention relates to an image capture device having a polarizing filter that reduces reflected light during operation of the image capture device. |
| US08508643B2 |
Method and system for processing an image
The present invention includes a method and system for processing images captured with an image-capturing device. According to the present invention, a method and system includes reconfiguring a display of an image based on the orientation of the image-capturing device when the image is captured. Through the use of the method and system in accordance with the present invention, a user can view captured images without having to account for a rotation of the image-capturing device. The method and system includes capturing the image with an image-capturing device, determining an orientation of the image-capturing device and reconfiguring a display of the image based on the orientation of the image-capturing device. |
| US08508640B2 |
Solid-state imaging device and method for driving the same
According to one embodiment, a back side illumination type solid-state imaging device includes an imaging area in which a plurality of unit pixels each including a photoelectric conversion section and a signal scan circuit section are arranged on a semiconductor substrate, and a light illumination surface formed on a surface of the semiconductor substrate located opposite a surface of the semiconductor substrate on which the signal scan circuit section is formed, wherein the unit pixel comprises a high-sensitivity pixel and a low-sensitivity pixel with a lower sensitivity than the high-sensitivity pixel. And each of the high-sensitivity pixel and the low-sensitivity element comprises a first pixel separation layer located on the light illumination surface side in the semiconductor substrate to separate the pixels from each other. |
| US08508635B2 |
Solid-state imaging device having a plurality of AD conversion circuits
In a solid-state imaging device, each of a plurality of switches is connected between a pulse output terminal of each delay unit and a pulse input terminal of the next-stage delay unit. Each of a plurality of switches is connected between the pulse output terminal and the pulse input terminal of each delay unit. A plurality of switches is turned on and a plurality of switches is turned off in conjunction with an oscillation operation, and a plurality of switches is turned off and a plurality of switches is turned on in conjunction with a holding operation. |
| US08508634B2 |
Solid-state image pickup element and a method of manufacturing the same, and image pickup device including the same
Disclosed herein is a solid-state image pickup element, including: a semiconductor layer in which a photodiode for carrying out photoelectric conversion is formed; a first film containing negative fixed charges and formed on the semiconductor layer in a region in which at least the photodiode is formed by utilizing either an atomic layer deposition method or a metal organic chemical vapor deposition method; a second film containing the negative fixed charges and formed on the first film containing therein the negative fixed charges by utilizing a physical vapor deposition method; and a third film containing the negative fixed charges and formed on the second film containing therein the negative fixed charges by utilizing either the atomic layer deposition method or the metal organic chemical vapor deposition method. |
| US08508633B2 |
Image device with color and brightness signal processing
An imaging device (100) includes: an imaging element (103) obtained by repeatedly arranging a pixel W for entire wavelength band, a W-R pixel for R, a W-G pixel for G, and a W-B pixel for B; a filter (102) configured such that a portion corresponding to the pixel W allows the entire wavelength band of a wavelength band within a certain range to pass and portions corresponding to the W-R pixel, the W-G pixel, and the W-B pixel reflect wavelength bands of corresponding colors, respectively; a reflection amount calculating unit (113) for calculating signal values of R, G, and B by subtracting a value of an image reading signal of each of the W-R pixel, the W-G pixel, and the W-B pixel from a value of an image reading signal of the pixel W. |
| US08508630B2 |
Electronic camera
An electronic camera includes: an image sensor having a charge transfer unit that transfers an electric charge for each pixel column; a correction unit that corrects an electric charge signal outputted from the charge transfer unit using a correction coefficient; and a control unit that controls the correction unit so that the correction coefficient is different according to operational conditions of the image sensor. |
| US08508628B2 |
Solid-state image sensing device and method of manufacturing the same
According to one embodiment, a back side illumination solid-state image sensing device which comprises a pixel region where a plurality of pixels each including a photoelectric converter and a signal scanning circuit are arranged on a semiconductor substrate, and in which a light illumination surface is formed on a substrate surface opposite to a surface of the semiconductor substrate on which the signal scanning circuit is formed, includes a silicon oxide film formed on the semiconductor substrate on the light illumination surface side, a p-type amorphous silicon compound layer formed on the silicon oxide film, and a hole storage layer formed by the p-type amorphous silicon compound layer near an interface between the semiconductor substrate on the light illumination surface side and the silicon oxide film. |
| US08508623B2 |
Image file for storing digital images and ancillary data values using multiple encoding methods
An image format for storing digital images within a baseline DCT compatible bitstream comprises entropy coded image data, a first application marker storing a first data value using a first encoding method to convey a first information value related to the image, and a second application marker storing a second data value using a second encoding method to convey the same said first information value related to the image. More specifically, the first application marker uses TIFF tags within an Exif application marker and the second application marker uses a FlashPix compatible structured storage stream, while the entropy coded data includes restart markers to define tile boundaries within the entropy coded image data. |
| US08508619B2 |
High dynamic range image generating apparatus and method
A high dynamic range (HDR) image generating apparatus and method is provided. The HDR image generating apparatus may set an auto-exposure time, a long exposure time, a short exposure time, and a reference exposure time. The auto-exposure time may be set to be shorter than the long exposure time, the short exposure time may be set to be shorter than the auto-exposure time, and the reference exposure time may be set to fall within a range between the auto-exposure time and the short exposure time. The image generating apparatus may obtain a first image with the long exposure time and a second image with the reference exposure time, may correct motion in the first image and adjust a dynamic range of the second image, and then may composite the resultant first and second images to generate a high dynamic range image. |
| US08508617B2 |
Encoding, decoding, and representing high dynamic range images
Techniques are provided to encode and decode image data comprising a tone mapped (TM) image with HDR reconstruction data in the form of luminance ratios and color residual values. In an example embodiment, luminance ratio values and residual values in color channels of a color space are generated on an individual pixel basis based on a high dynamic range (HDR) image and a derivative tone-mapped (TM) image that comprises one or more color alterations that would not be recoverable from the TM image with a luminance ratio image. The TM image with HDR reconstruction data derived from the luminance ratio values and the color-channel residual values may be outputted in an image file to a downstream device, for example, for decoding, rendering, and/or storing. The image file may be decoded to generate a restored HDR image free of the color alterations. |
| US08508616B2 |
White balance correction including indicative white color determination based on regions in a divided image
A white balance correction apparatus may include a dividing unit, a white evaluation unit, a white balance correction unit, and a camera orientation discrimination unit. The dividing unit divides an image into a plurality of divided areas. The white evaluation unit determines whether image data within every divided area is indicative of a color white according to white detection regions in a color temperature range defined based on a position of each divided area in the image. The white balance correction unit performs a white balance correction based upon image data determined to be indicative of the color white. The camera orientation discrimination unit discriminates orientation of a camera. In accordance with the discriminated orientation, the white evaluation unit changes a combination of position of each divided area and condition used. |
| US08508613B2 |
Image capturing apparatus
An image capturing apparatus that effectively extends a depth of field of an imaging unit by performing restoration processing on image data obtained by imaging a subject with the imaging unit, in which image data (A/D converted digital image signal) are corrected by a linear correction unit such that an input light versus output signal value characteristic of the image sensor becomes linear and the restoration processing for depth of field extension is performed on the linear corrected image data. |
| US08508608B2 |
Image capture device and method of capturing images
An image capture device (2) includes a sensor (4) having an active area comprising a plurality of pixels (6) and a shutter array (8) for controlling the exposure of individual pixels. The pixels are grouped in a plurality of pixel subsets and are arranged to capture a plurality of time-separated lo-res images, which can be viewed sequentially as a movie or combined to form a hi-res still image. |
| US08508604B2 |
Anti-shake apparatus
An anti-shake apparatus comprises an angular velocity sensor and a controller. The angular velocity sensor detects an angular velocity. The controller controls the angular velocity sensor and performs an anti-shake operation based on the output signal from the angular velocity sensor. The controller calculates an angular velocity signal, based on the output signal from the angular velocity sensor before a predetermined period which is longer than a predetermined time interval and the output signal from the angular velocity sensor after the predetermined period, at the predetermined time interval, during the predetermined period. |
| US08508596B2 |
Sensor system detection device and detection method using same
A sensor system detection device for detecting quality of a sensor system includes a first connector electrically connected to the sensor system, a second connector; a display unit, a controller and an encoder. A first terminal of the encoder is connected to the first connector to receive first image data from the sensor system. A second terminal of the encoder is connected to the display unit via the second connector. A third terminal of the encoder is connected to the controller. The controller controls the encoder to transform the first image into second image data matching with the display unit. The second image data is transferred to the display unit. |
| US08508595B2 |
Surveillance camera system for controlling cameras using position and orientation of the cameras and position information of a detected object
Provided is a surveillance camera system for controlling cameras by calculating a movement amount of the cameras based on position information and orientation information of the cameras and position information of an object being surveilled. The surveillance camera system includes: a camera receiving an image from a surveillance area; a driving device combined with the camera, wherein the driving device moves the camera; and a camera controller controlling the driving device by using initial coordinates defined with a position and an azimuth at which the camera is installed and a current direction of the camera, so that the camera faces a target position. |
| US08508591B2 |
System and method for estimating the height of an object using tomosynthesis-like techniques
Systems and methods to estimate the height profile of an object using tomosynthesis-like techniques. A plurality of raw images of an object to be characterized are acquired, where the plurality of raw images are representative of a plurality of spatial shifts of an imaging device relative to the object to be characterized. The raw images are processed to generate composite images, where each composite image corresponds to a unique image shift between spatially adjacent raw images. A volatility parameter value is calculated within a neighborhood of a same image pixel location for each composite image. The composite image having the largest volatility parameter value for the image pixel location is determined. A unique image shift, corresponding to the composite image having the largest volatility parameter value, is transformed into a height value representative of a height dimension of the image pixel location. |
| US08508590B2 |
Method and apparatus for simulating a physical environment to facilitate vehicle operation and task completion
A method and apparatus for simulating a physical environment to facilitate vehicle operation and task completion is described. In one embodiment, the method includes processing data that is transmitted from a sensor array comprising a plurality of devices, wherein the plurality of devices are placed throughout a physical environment that comprises a plurality of objects, accessing model information associated with the plurality of objects, wherein the model information indicates at least one physical attribute associated with each of the plurality of objects, correlating the model information with the transmitted data from the sensor array to produce a correlation result, generating at least one visual representation of the physical environment from at least one viewpoint based on the correlation result and identifying at least one obstruction, within the physical environment, using the at least one visual representation. |
| US08508589B2 |
Imaging systems and associated methods thereof
Imaging systems and methods for generating images of a sample wherein the system comprises an illumination source for illuminating the sample; an image viewing subsystem for capturing images from the sample; one or more liquid crystal panels and one or more birefringent elements, which are positioned between the sample and the image viewing subsystem, so that the images from the sample pass through the liquid crystal panels and the birefringent elements before reaching the image viewing subsystem; a device that changes one or more polarization states of the liquid crystal panels; and a controller that is configured to cause the device to change the polarization states of the liquid crystal panels. |
| US08508585B2 |
Three-dimensional video reproduction apparatus, three-dimensional video reproduction method, and integrated circuit
A three-dimensional video reproduction apparatus includes: a video decoder unit which generates a right-eye video signal and a left-eye video signal; a graphics decoder unit which generates a right-eye graphics signal and a left-eye graphics signal; a synthesizing unit which synthesizes the right-eye video signal and the right-eye graphics signal and synthesizes the left-eye video signal and the left-eye graphics signal, to generate a right-eye output signal and a left-eye output signal; and an output unit which reproduces the three-dimensional video by alternately outputting the right-eye and left-eye output signals. When two adjacent pixels in the right-eye or left-eye output signal are represented by a common chrominance signal, and are generated respectively using a video signal and a graphics signal, the synthesizing unit generates the common chrominance signal such that a synthesis ratio of the video signal and the graphics signal is biased in favor of one of these. |
| US08508583B2 |
Three-dimensional cylindrical video image projecting device and method
A three-dimensional video image projecting device and projecting method uses video image projectors to project a three-dimensional video image on a cylindrical screen face which can be three-dimensionally viewed through three-dimensional glasses having a first polarizing filter and a second polarizing filter arranged thereon. A plurality of video image projectors are disposed to be opposed to respective regions of the screen face, and the video image projectors produce a continuous, three-dimensional video image in a circumferential direction, by projecting, from the video image projectors, three-dimensional video images, each of which has an angle of 30 degrees or less in a circumferential direction of the screen face, arranged along the circumferential direction of the screen face. |
| US08508582B2 |
3D display handling of subtitles
A method of creating a three-dimensional image signal including receiving a first image component, receiving a second component for creating a three-dimensional image in combination with the first image component, receiving a text component for including in the three-dimensional image, receiving a data component comprising location information describing the location of the text component within the three-dimensional image, and creating a three-dimensional image signal comprising the first image component, the second component, the text component, and the data component. The signal is rendered by rendering a three-dimensional image from the first image component and the second component, the rendering including rendering the text component in the three-dimensional image. The rendering of the text component includes adjusting three-dimensional parameters of the three-dimensional image in the location of the rendered text component. |
| US08508577B2 |
Display of an arrangement of a panoramic video by applying navigation commands to said panoramic video
An arrangement of a panoramic video is obtained by applying navigation commands to said panoramic video. The navigation commands are formed either by navigation commands given at will by the user, or by predefined navigation commands associated with said panoramic video. The choice of the type of navigation command used at a given instant is controlled either automatically or by the user. In this way, it is avoided that a user loses the thread of the action while permitting free navigation through a panoramic video. |
| US08508575B2 |
Television system, television set and method for operating a television system
A television system, comprising: a television set including a display and an input adapted to receive a television signal and a video conferencing signal, wherein the display is configured to display a television picture corresponding to the television signal and further configured to display a video conferencing picture of a video conference, the television set further including a first speaker adapted to output a audio signal of the video conference and a television sound signal included in said television signal, the television set further including a first microphone adapted to be used for said video conference; a remote control adapted to control the television set and including a second speaker and a second microphone; wherein the first speaker is adapted to output said audio signal and/or said television sound signal depending on a video conferencing mode; and wherein the second speaker is adapted to be switched on or off depending on said video conferencing mode; and wherein the first and second microphones are adapted to be selectively activated depending on said video conferencing mode. |
| US08508574B2 |
Web based conference server and method
A video conference server in a digital data network that includes at least one audio port and at least one video port, a memory unit, an audio processing unit, a video processing unit, a control unit that generates control signals, a memory device, an access program module and a content program module. The audio and video port connect to a client workstation via the digital data network. The client workstation has a video output and an audio output. The memory unit associates an audio channel and a video channel of the digital data network with a client workstation. The audio processing unit and video processing unit receive signals from the audio and video port and generate signals for transmission to the client workstation. |
| US08508573B2 |
Communication system
A communication system that may be integrated or otherwise combined with a piece of furniture, such as a conference table, desk or credenza. The communication system may provide a combination of audio, video, telephony, presentation and/or other conferencing functions and may include a number of separate user modules, a control module, a display module and a network connection. According to an exemplary embodiment, each of the separate user modules is a compact device that is integrated into the piece of furniture and includes a button that, when activated, allows a user to take control of certain aspects of the communication system. For example, a user may take over the display module or the information that is sent via the network connection by activating their user module. |
| US08508566B2 |
Light emitting apparatus, print head and image forming apparatus
A light emitting apparatus includes a plurality of light emitting chips, a first wire, a second wire, a third wire, and a fourth wire. The plurality of light emitting chips each have a plurality of light emitting devices and are divided into a plurality of chip groups, the light emitting devices in each of the light emitting chips being divided into a plurality of device groups. The first wire transmits in common a transmission signal to the light emitting chips. The second wire transmits in common a first selection signal to a given chip group of the light emitting chips. The third wire transmits in common a second selection signal to a set of the device groups. The fourth wire transmits a turn-on control signal to each of the chip groups. |
| US08508565B2 |
Device and apparatus for controlling same
A device includes a first element substrate and a second element substrate for driving a driving element; a first signal input unit connected to an input terminal of the first element substrate; a second signal input unit connected to an input terminal of the second element substrate; and a signal output unit. Each of the first and second element substrates includes a driving element, a first signal generation unit configured to output a first signal, a second signal generation unit configured to output a second signal, an input terminal, an output terminal, and a selection unit configured to receive a signal from the first and the second signal generation units, select one of a state of the first signal, a state of the second signal, and a high-impedance state on the basis of the selection signal input from the input terminal, and output the state to the output terminal. |
| US08508564B2 |
Thermal print head device and thermal printer
A thermal print head device includes a thermal print head placed to face a platen roller, a head holding member configured to hold the thermal print head, the head holding member extending in a tangential direction of the platen roller and being supported to be swingable about a portion away from the platen roller, a biasing member configured to bias the thermal print head or the head holding member, the biasing member having one end placed on a side of the thermal print head or the head holding member to press the thermal print head against the platen roller, and a point-of-action switching member disposed between the biasing member and the thermal print head or the head holding member biased by the biasing member. |
| US08508563B2 |
Image display apparatus and control method thereof
An image display apparatus has a correction unit that performs a correction process on image signals so as to suppress luminance fluctuation caused by capacitive coupling between adjacent column wirings. The correction unit includes: a correction value generation unit that determines a correction value for a pixel to be corrected on the basis of a combination of a signal value of the pixel to be corrected and signal values of adjacent pixels which are on a column wiring next to a column wiring on which the pixel to be corrected is, and on the basis of a position of the pixel to be corrected in a column direction; and a correction operation unit that corrects a signal of the pixel to be corrected using the correction value generated by the correction value generation unit. |
| US08508561B2 |
Liquid crystal display device and electronic device
A liquid crystal display device by which a color moving image displayed with a field sequential system and a monochrome still image are switched and displayed. In a moving-image mode, a driving control circuit controls the backlight portion to emit light corresponding to any one of a plurality of colors of the first light source, and controls the display panel by writing of the image signal in the display panel for each of the plurality of colors within a predetermined period. In a still-image mode, the driving control circuit controls the backlight portion to keep the second light source emitting light, and controls the display panel to hold the image signal written thereto, for a predetermined period. |
| US08508558B2 |
Color temperature adjusting device, method for adjusting color temperature, and program product
A color temperature adjusting device includes a display unit that displays a first pointer indicating default values of chromaticity x, y and a second pointer indicating an adjustment value of the chromaticity x, y within a frame in a corresponding manner to scales of the x coordinate and the y coordinate marked on the frame, an operating unit that is used to change the x coordinate and/or the y coordinate of the second pointer, and a control unit that sends out the adjustment value indicated by the second pointer by an operation of the operating unit, to the monitor through a communication processing unit, and in a case where the monitor changes the color temperature, receives the values of the chromaticity x, y from the monitor through the communication processing unit so as to reflect and display the values of the chromaticity x, y on the display unit. |
| US08508550B1 |
Selective rendering of objects
An animation scene including a group of objects is rendered by dividing the group into multiple clipping regions based on object location. The objects are sorted based on the depth extent of each object relative to a camera position. The objects are then assigned to a clipping region such that each clipping region includes about the same number of objects. Each clipping region is then rendered independently and in parallel to reduce processor and memory load. |
| US08508548B2 |
Subpixel rendering area resample functions for display device
Input image data indicating an image is rendered to a display panel in a display device or system that is substantially configured with a three primary color or multi-primary color subpixel repeating group using a subpixel rendering operation based on area resampling techniques. Examples of expanded area resample functions have properties that maintain color balance in the output image and, in some embodiments, are evaluated using an increased number of input image sample points farther away in distance from the subpixel being reconstructed than in prior disclosed techniques. One embodiment of an expanded area resample function is a cosine function for which is provided an example of an approximate numerical evaluation method. The functions and their evaluation techniques may also be utilized in constructing novel sharpening filters, including a Difference-of-Cosine filter. |
| US08508547B2 |
Dynamic theme color palette generation
There is provided a method of changing a theme for a user interface of a computer system comprising receiving an identification of an image with which to define a color palette of a theme for rendering elements of a user interface on a color display of the computer system; analyzing the image to determine at least one predominant color; and defining the color palette in response to the analysis. The image may comprise a background image selected by a user for display by the computer system. Dynamic generation of the color palette matches the user interface to colors to provide flexible and appealing themes. A computer readable memory having recorded thereon instructions to carry out this method is also provided, as well as a device comprising such memory. |
| US08508545B2 |
Method and apparatus pertaining to rendering an image to convey levels of confidence with respect to materials identification
A control circuit accesses image information regarding an image of a target. This information comprises, at least in part, information regarding material content of the target. The control circuit also accesses confidence information regarding at least one degree of confidence as pertains to the target's material content. The control circuit uses this confidence information to facilitate rendering the image such that the rendered image integrally conveys information both about materials included in the target and a relative degree of confidence that the materials are correctly identified. |
| US08508538B2 |
Timing controller capable of switching between graphics processing units
A display system is disclosed that is capable of switching between graphics processing units (GPUs). Some embodiments may include a display system, including a display, a timing controller (T-CON) coupled to the display, the T-CON including a plurality of receivers, and a plurality of GPUs, where each GPU is coupled to at least one of the plurality of receivers, and where the T-CON selectively couples only one of the plurality of GPUs to the display at a time. |
| US08508534B1 |
Animating objects using relative motion
Input is received that selects an animation aspect associated with an object within an animation. The animation involves the object and an original frame of reference through which the animation is displayed, and the selected animation aspect is one that changes over time with respect to the original frame of reference. The animation is displayed through a new frame of reference defined by holding the selected animation aspect constant over time. During the animation display through the new frame of reference, input is received that manipulates the object to create a new animation aspect associated with the object. The new animation aspect associated with the object is recorded in the animation. |
| US08508531B2 |
Graphing method for presenting values associated with two data sets, graphing apparatus, and computer program product storing a program for executing the graphing method
A graphing method is implemented by a graphing apparatus and includes: (a) receiving a first value and a second value, and reference information corresponding to the first and second values; (b) determining an angle value using the first value and the second value, step (b) including (b-1) calculating a relational value by determining the quotient of a numerator and a denominator, in which the denominator is a function of the first value and the numerator is a function of at least the second value, and (b-2) obtaining the angle value by inputting the relational value in a predetermined inverse trigonometric function; (c) generating a graph having presented thereon a coordinate value formed using the angle value and the reference information; and (d) outputting the graph to a display medium for display thereon. A computer program product and a graphing apparatus are also disclosed. |
| US08508525B2 |
Display device and driving method thereof
An organic light emitting diode (OLED) display includes a display unit including a plurality of pixels, a plurality of scan lines, and a plurality of data lines, a data driver transmitting a plurality of data signals to the plurality of data lines, a scan driver transmitting a plurality of scan signals to the plurality of scan lines, a compensation controller supplying a predetermined first current to each OLED in each of the plurality of pixels during a sensing period for measuring a driving voltage of the OLED for each of a plurality of pixels, receiving the driving voltage of the OLED supplied with the first current, and outputting measuring data for the transmitted driving voltage; and a signal controller compensating an input video signal according to the measuring data to generate image data. The compensation controller is separate from and external to the data driver. |
| US08508519B2 |
Active level shift (ALS) driver circuit, liquid crystal display device comprising the ALS driver circuit and method of driving the liquid crystal display device
An active level shift (ALS) driver circuit, a liquid crystal display device including the ALS driver circuit, and a method of driving the liquid crystal display device. A liquid crystal display device having a slim external black matrix may be provided by fabricating the ALS driver circuit using inverters and a transmission gate. |
| US08508516B2 |
Active matrix type display device and portable machine comprising the same
A display device includes a plurality of pixels arranged in a matrix with columns and rows. A source driver provides either analogue or digital image data for the pixels. Each pixel includes a plurality of sub-pixels. Each sub-pixel includes a display components, a memory unit for memorizing gradation display data included in the digital image data provided by the source driver for the display component, and a data switching unit for switching data providing for the display component to either the gradation display data memorized in the memory unit or the analogue image data provided by the source driver. |
| US08508515B2 |
Buffering circuit with reduced dynamic power consumption
A buffering circuit with reduced power consumption is provided. The output buffering circuit includes first and second amplifier circuits. The first amplifier circuit includes a first input stage and a first output stage both coupled between a first power voltage and a second power voltage lower than the first power voltage, and an assistant discharging unit configured to provide a discharging current flowing from a first output node to a first intermediate power voltage during a discharging operation of the first amplifier circuit. The second amplifier circuit includes a second input stage and a second output stage both coupled between the first power voltage and the second power voltage, and an assistant charging unit configured to provide a charging current flowing from a second intermediate power voltage to a second output node during a charging operation of the second amplifier circuit. The first and second amplifier circuits can have reduced output voltage ranges and hence reduced total power consumption. |
| US08508514B2 |
Display module and driving method thereof
A display module includes a scan line, a data line, a driving circuit and a level converting circuit. The driving circuit has at least one first driving unit and at least one second driving unit electrically connected to the first driving unit. A non-DC signal is transmitted between the first driving unit and the second driving unit for controlling the first driving unit and/or the second driving unit. The first driving unit outputs a first driving signal to the scan line. The second driving unit outputs a second driving signal to the level converting circuit. The level converting circuit is electrically connected with the driving circuit and the data line, and outputs a display signal to the data line according to the second driving signal. A driving method of the display module is also disclosed. |
| US08508509B2 |
Optical touch display device
An optical touch device includes a display panel and at least a light emitting and receiving unit. The display panel includes a transparent substrate having a touch surface and a plurality of side surfaces adjacent to the touch surface. At least one of the side surfaces is a first light incidence surface and at least one of the side surfaces is a first light emitting surface. Each light emitting and receiving unit includes a linear light source and a light sensing component. The linear light source is disposed beside the first light incidence surface and is configured for providing optical signals into the transparent substrate. The light sensing component is disposed beside the first light emitting surface. The light sensing component is configured for receiving the optical signals from the linear light source. The optical touch display device has advantages of low cost. |
| US08508507B2 |
Input detection systems and methods for display panels with embedded photo sensors
A method of for identifying multiple optical inputs to a display area with embedded photo sensors includes providing a display area with embedded photo sensors configured to display visual information; receiving a first and a second input optically transmitted to a first and a second location on the display area, respectively; processing the first and second inputs to identify at least one of (1) the location of the first and second inputs relative to the display area; and (2) a timing of the first and second inputs; and determining whether the first and second inputs originated from a single source or multiple sources based on at least their (1) wavelengths; (2) flash or pulse frequencies; (3) durations; (4) timings; (5) intensities; (6) modulation schemes; (7) projected input patterns; and (8) at least one estimated trace of the inputs; and providing first and second input information containing at least (1) their locations and (2) their timings. |
| US08508506B2 |
Illumination device and electro-optical apparatus
An illumination device is provided which includes: an illumination light source that emits an illumination light; a first position-detecting light source that emits a first position detecting light; a second position-detecting light source that emits a second position detecting light; a first light guide plate which is provided with a first light incident surface that introduces the illumination light and the first position detecting light to an inside thereof and a first light emitting surface that is disposed to cross the first light incident surface while being disposed to be adjacent thereto and that emits therefrom the illumination light and the first position detecting light propagating through the inside; and a second light guide plate which is provided with a second light incident surface that is disposed to overlap with the first light guide plate in plan view and that introduces the second position detecting light to an inside thereof and a second light emitting surface that is disposed to cross the second light incident surface while being disposed to be adjacent thereto and that emits therefrom the second position detecting light propagating through the inside concurrently with the first position detecting light. |
| US08508504B2 |
Methods of filtering noise in capacitive touch panel
The present invention relates to a method of filtering noise in capacitive touch panel. By performing the correlation scan more than one time on the same channel, comparing the results of the correlation scans, and determining background noise by empty scans, the noise in capacitive touch panel can be filtered. |
| US08508503B2 |
Touch panel and method of reducing noise coupled by a common voltage of a touch panel
A touch panel includes a touch sensor, a liquid crystal panel, and a reverse circuit. The reverse circuit receives common voltage ripples of the liquid crystal panel, and outputs reversed common voltage ripples after reversing the common voltage ripples. After the touch sensor receives the reversed common voltage ripples, the touch sensor outputs a sensing signal according to the reversed common voltage ripples. |
| US08508500B2 |
Touch panel electrical device and method for operating thereof
A touch panel electrical device includes a touch panel, a notice signal generator and a processing unit. The processing unit is electrically connected with the touch panel and the notice signal generator respectively. The touch panel senses a touched position on the touch panel. The processing unit includes a notice-generating module. The notice-generating module makes the notice signal generator generate a notice sound signal or a notice vibration signal according to the touched position to notice a user a touched instruction corresponding to the touched position he/she touches. |
| US08508498B2 |
Direction and force sensing input device
Systems, methods and devices for identifying characters for a display are generally described. An example system may include a processor, a memory coupled to the processor, and an input device coupled to the processor. The input device may include a plurality of input members, where one or more of the input members may have a plurality of characters associated therewith. The processor may be adapted to execute computer implemented instructions to identify an occurrence of a touch force being applied to an input member, determine a particular character from the plurality of characters that is associated with the applied touch force, and/or send the identified character to a display unit. The character may be determined based at least in part on the one or more properties of the applied touch force. |
| US08508495B2 |
Display with dual-function capacitive elements
A touch screen including display pixels with capacitive elements is provided. The touch screen includes first common voltage lines connecting capacitive elements in adjacent display pixels, and a second common voltage line connecting first common voltage lines. The pixels can be formed as electrically separated regions by including breaks in the common voltage lines. The regions can include a drive region that is stimulated by stimulation signals, a sense region that receives sense signals corresponding to the stimulation signals. A grounded region can also be included, for example, between a sense region and a drive region. A shield layer can be formed of a substantially high resistance material and disposed to shield a sense region. A black mask line and conductive line under the black mask line can be included, for example, to provide low-resistance paths between a region of pixels and touch circuitry outside the touch screen borders. |
| US08508493B2 |
Reduction of electromagnetic interference in a capacitive touchscreen system
Disclosed herein are various embodiments of circuits and methods for reducing electromagnetic interference in mutual capacitance measurement or sensing systems, devices, components and methods such as capacitive touchscreens. Charge integrator circuits and switched capacitance filtering circuits are disclosed that improve the signal-to-noise ratio (or the ratio of a desired sensed mutual capacitance signal to an undesired EMI signal) in a capacitive sensor readout circuit without the need to increase the amplitude of the drive signal. The various embodiments of the charge integrator and switched capacitance filtering circuits described herein permit an improvement in noise immunity without requiring the excessive power levels typically associated with high amplitude drive circuitry, and moreover result in boosting signal-to-noise ratios during early stages of signal processing. |
| US08508492B2 |
Touch panel and method of detecting press operation position thereon
In a touch panel, one of conductive layers on a bottom of an upper substrate and on a top of a lower substrate is formed of belt-shaped conductive layers. The other is a single conductive layer facing the belt-shaped conductive layers. The single conductive layer is provided with a pair of electrodes in positions corresponding to both ends in a direction where the belt-shaped conductive layers extend. When the upper substrate is pressed while a voltage is applied between the pair of electrodes, the top and lower conductive layers contact with each other. Then, a voltage value corresponding to the pressed position in the direction where the belt-shaped conductive layers extend is generated from any of the belt-shaped conductive layers. From the voltage value and the position of the belt-shaped conductive layer from which the voltage value is generated, a pressed position on the upper substrate can be detected. |
| US08508491B2 |
Information input device, image forming apparatus, position determination method, and position determination program
Disclosed is an information input device including a touch panel in which a display screen for displaying operations information is integrated with a sensor unit and to which the operations information is input when the display screen is touched with a predetermined unit, the sensor unit having plural sensors, which are capable of measuring a capacitance at a front surface of the display screen, arranged in a staggered manner such that three of the plural sensors adjacent to each other are arranged at positions corresponding to apices of a regular triangle; and a position determination unit that determines a position touched with the predetermined unit on the display screen in accordance with levels of the capacitances detected with the three adjacent sensors in a region of the regular triangle formed by the three adjacent sensors among the plural sensors constituting the sensor unit. |
| US08508489B2 |
System and method for injecting ink into an application
A touch system includes a touch panel having a touch surface and a projector for projecting images onto the touch surface. A computer executing an applications program is coupled to the touch panel and the projector. The computer is responsive to contact output generated by the touch panel in response to proximity of a pointer to the touch surface and updates image data conveyed to the projector so that the images presented on the touch surface reflect the pointer activity. The computer executes a gesture responsive ink injection routine to detect when a selected gesture is made with the pointer on the touch surface. The gesture responsive ink injection routine performs recognition to convert ink drawn on the touch surface into a form suitable for the applications program when the selected gesture is recognized and enters the recognized text into the application. |
| US08508487B2 |
Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and computer program
An information processing apparatus including an operation input unit including an operation surface having virtual buttons variably set thereto is disclosed. The apparatus includes a position detection unit detecting whether a user touches the operation surface of the operation input unit, and a position at which the user touches the operation surface thereof, and a pressure detection unit detecting pressure applied by the user touching the operation surface thereof. The apparatus further includes a virtual button control unit interpreting, when the position detection unit has detected the position at which the user touches the operation surface thereof, a virtual button corresponding to the detected position as a selected virtual button, and correcting, when the pressure detected is equal to or greater than a first threshold value, a layout of the virtual buttons such that a size of the selected virtual button is enlarged according to intensity of the detected pressure. |
| US08508484B2 |
Liquid crystal display device
An embodiment of the invention provides a liquid crystal display device, including a first substrate; a second substrate; a liquid crystal layer formed between the first substrate and the second substrate; a first sensor electrode formed on the first substrate; a second sensor electrode formed on the second substrate, and disposed so as to be adapted to contact the plurality of first sensor electrodes close to one another by pressing from a side of either the first substrate or the second substrate; and a sensor drive circuit for applying a voltage to a first wiring electrically connected to one of the plurality of first sensor electrodes which the second sensor electrode is adapted to contact by the pressing, and detecting a change in potential of a second wiring electrically connected to another one of the plurality of first sensor electrodes. |
| US08508478B2 |
Devices, systems and methods for remote control input
Systems, methods, and devices are disclosed which allow for remote mouse input from a portable network device to an external interface device using optical flow sensors detecting motion of the portable mouse device. Various techniques include systems, methods, and devices which manage this remote mouse input connection between one portable network device and multiple external interface devices, and between one external interface device and multiple portable network devices. |
| US08508473B2 |
Information processing device
An object of the present invention is to provide an information processing device which is capable of suitably switching between hardware buttons and an electrostatic pad such as a touch panel, depending on the operating circumstances of a user. In a cellular phone, judgment is made as to an application, which is an operation target for the user, and, in accordance with the application judged, an input device control section is able to switch between accepting inputs from an electrostatic pad input acceptance section and accepting inputs from a hardware button input acceptance section, depending on the application thus judged by a CPU. |
| US08508468B2 |
Display apparatus comprising electrofluidic cells driven based on calculated charge corresponding to current and new pixel cell display properties
A display apparatus is disclosed comprising a plurality of electrofluidic chromatophore (EFC) pixel cells, each pixel cell comprising a fluid holder for holding a polar fluid and a non-polar fluid having differing display properties. The fluid holder comprises a fluid reservoir and a channel. The channel is connected to the reservoir so as to enable movement of the polar fluid and non-polar fluid between the channel and the reservoir. A supply voltage applied to the channel results in a movement of the polar fluid to change a cell display property. A circuit board supplies an electrical charge to the pixel cells to generate the supply voltage. A display controller comprises a state lookup table storing, for a respective pixel cell, the current pixel cell display property. The display controller calculates the electrical charge as a function of the current pixel cell display property and the new pixel cell display property. |
| US08508467B2 |
Display device and electric apparatus using the same
A display device (10) includes an upper substrate (first substrate) (2), a lower substrate (second substrate) (3), and a conductive liquid (16) that is movably sealed in a display space (S) formed between the upper substrate (2) and the lower substrate (3). In the display device (10), a signal electrode (first electrode) (4) is provided on the upper substrate (2), and a scanning electrode (second electrode) (5) and a reference electrode (third electrode) (6) are provided on the lower substrate (3). The signal electrode (4) comes into contact with the conductive liquid (16) and is made of a material that is electrochemically inert to the conductive liquid (16). |
| US08508464B2 |
Backlight control circuit capable of distinguishing under current condition
The present invention discloses a backlight control circuit capable of distinguishing an under current condition, comprising: at least one light emission device path having a voltage node; at least one current source for controlling the current amount on the light emission device path; and at least one under current detection circuit for generating a first control signal according to the voltage at the voltage node, wherein when the first control signal changes its state, the under current detection circuit generates a second control signal to change the voltage on the voltage node if the light emission device path is normally connected. |
| US08508462B2 |
Dimming structure for image display device
A dimming structure for an image display device further includes a contrast panel for altering contrast differences in a portion around an outputted image to achieve dimming effects on an image smaller than a light emitting lamp. In the dimming structure, a backlight unit has a plurality of light sources disposed therein. A display panel displays an image while the backlight unit is disposed to light the display panel. A contrast panel is disposed between the backlight unit and the display panel. The contrast panel has a light emitting window formed in a portion thereof corresponding to the image of the display panel to transmit light emitted from the backlight unit therethrough. The dimming structure assures uniform dimming effects on the portion around the image despite use of a light source bigger than the image to be outputted. |
| US08508459B2 |
Pulse output circuit, shift register, and display device
An object is to suppress change of a threshold voltage of a transistor in a shift register and to prevent the transistor from malfunctioning during a non-selection period. A pulse output circuit provided in the shift register regularly supplies a potential to a gate electrode of a transistor which is in a floating state so that the gate electrode is turned on during a non-selection period when a pulse is not outputted. In addition, supply of a potential to the gate electrode of the transistor is performed by turning on or off another transistor regularly. |
| US08508450B2 |
Array substrate and display panel having the same
An array substrate of an LCD having: a gate line formed along a first direction; a data line formed along a second direction crossing the first direction; first and second pixel electrodes spaced apart from each other; a thin-film transistor includes a gate electrode connected to the gate line; a source electrode connected to the data line and partially overlapping the second pixel electrode; and a drain electrode connected to the first pixel electrode spaced apart from the second pixel electrode along the second direction. The source electrode or the gate electrode overlaps the second pixel electrode but the drain electrode does not overlap the second pixel electrode. Electrical coupling between the first and second pixel electrodes are avoided with such configuration. |
| US08508448B2 |
Method and apparatus for driving reflective bistable cholestric displays
This invention provides a method and apparatus for driving bistable cholesteric liquid crystal displays. The method and apparatus provided a display in which all the pixels are initially driven to the P state. Selected pixels for the display are then driven to the FC state to provide the desired message. The state of the pixels is then maintained for a viewing period prior to any resetting of the display to the P state. The switching from the P state to the FC state allows fast addressing times and lower voltages to be used in driving the display. |
| US08508432B2 |
Multi-display apparatus
A multi-display apparatus includes; a first display panel including a first display device, and a second display panel including a second display device, wherein pixels of the first display panel are vertically aligned with pixels of the second display panel in an area where the first display panel and the second display panel overlap. |
| US08508429B2 |
Radio communication equipment
A radio communication device is obtained which is provided with an RFID tag function which can ensure the mounting area of each antenna as large as possible, and which is sharable with an LF band RFID system or an HF band RFID system and a UHF band RFID system, while having a communication range equivalent to the communication range of each of an LF band an HF band and a UHF band.The device is provided with an integrated circuit (4) having a communication function in a first frequency band, a conductive object (3) connected to one of input and output terminals of the integrated circuit (4), an integrated circuit (5) having a communication function in a second frequency band, and a second conductive object connected between input and output terminals of the integrated circuit (5). The second conductive object is composed of a spiral conductive object (2). The other of the input output terminals of the integrated circuit (4) is connected to a part of the spirally wound conductive object (2). |
| US08508424B2 |
Dual band base station antenna
A high band element and an antenna including a plurality of high band elements are provided. The high band element can include directors disposed above four dipoles, and the antenna can include a plurality of low band elements configured to accommodate the plurality of high band elements. The low band elements can be configured in a 1-2-2-2-1 arrangement or a 2-2-2-2-1 arrangement. |
| US08508420B2 |
Antenna device and wireless communication apparatus
An antenna device and a wireless communication apparatus that are capable of obtaining a plurality of resonant frequencies and varying the plurality of resonant frequencies over a wide range are provided. A first antenna unit of an antenna device includes a feed electrode, a first radiation electrode, and a first frequency-variable circuit. The first frequency-variable circuit includes first and second reactance circuits each including a variable-capacitance diode. A control voltage is applied to the first frequency-variable circuit, and the resonant frequency of the first antenna unit can thus be varied. A second antenna unit includes the feed electrode, a second radiation electrode, and a second frequency-variable circuit. The second frequency-variable circuit includes first and third reactance circuits each including a variable-capacitance diode. A control voltage is applied to the second frequency-variable circuit, and the resonant frequency of the second antenna unit can thus be varied. |
| US08508419B2 |
Multiple antenna element system and method
An antenna system connectable to a vehicle includes a primary antenna, a primary data transmission line, a secondary antenna, a secondary data transmission line, and an RF device. The primary antenna is connected to the vehicle and is located in an exterior environment. The secondary antenna is connected to the vehicle and is located in one of the exterior environment and an interior cabin of the vehicle. The primary data transmission line transmits a first RF signal and is in communication with the primary antenna. The secondary data transmission line transmits a secondary RF signal and is in communication with the secondary antenna. The fixed RF device is connected to the vehicle and is in communication with the primary data transmission line and the secondary data transmission line to provide an output RF signal. |
| US08508412B2 |
Semiconductor package and semiconductor device
A semiconductor device, includes a chip, a first external terminal, a second external terminal, and a partial antenna wiring that is coupled to the first external terminal, and that constitutes a matching circuit, wherein the chip includes first and second electrode pads that are coupled to the partial antenna wiring, a third electrode pad that is different from each of the first and second electrode pads, and that is coupled to the second external terminal, and an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit that is coupled to the third electrode pad. |
| US08508411B2 |
Method and system for positioning mobile units based on angle measurements
A method and system for positioning mobile units using angle measurements taken by neighboring mobile units is disclosed. A selected mobile unit and mobile units in the vicinity of the selected mobile unit are selectively instructed to measure and report information related to the position of the selected mobile unit. The reported information is used to compute a position of the selected mobile unit. |
| US08508410B2 |
Adaptive antenna beamforming
Adaptive antenna beamforming may involve a maximum signal-to-noise ratio beamforming method, a correlation matrix based beamforming method, or a maximum ray beamforming method. The adaptive antenna beamforming may be used in a millimeter-wave wireless personal area network in one embodiment. |
| US08508407B2 |
Method and system for adjusting a measurement cycle in a wireless receiver
Methods and systems for measuring wireless signals are described. The method includes generating a velocity estimate that includes a speed and a direction of a wireless receiver. A change in the velocity estimate is detected and how frequently the wireless signal is measured is adjusted according to the change detected in the velocity estimate. Systems may include wireless receivers that include an accelerometer that is operable to generate a velocity estimate that includes speed and direction of the wireless receiver. The wireless receivers may also include a processor operable to adjust a measurement period of the wireless signal in the wireless receiver according to a rate of change in the velocity estimate. |
| US08508406B2 |
Position estimation enhancement for a global navigation satellite system receiver
A method of estimating a position of a satellite receiver, comprising computing a weight matrix, and computing an estimated position of the satellite receiver based on the weight matrix, wherein computing the weight matrix includes computing quantities indicative of degradations experienced by satellite signals and of multipath interference, and computing the weight matrix based on the computed quantities. |
| US08508402B2 |
System and method for detecting, locating and identifying objects located above the ground and below the ground in a pre-referenced area of interest
The invention relates to a system and method for detecting, locating and identifying objects located above ground or below ground in an area of interest, comprising an airborne vehicle which circumscribes the area of interest and which includes a built-in radar having an antenna with a respective transmitter and receiver, signal-processing means, data-storage means and graphical interface means. According to the invention, the area of interest has been pre-referenced and the radar is a heterodyne ground penetration radar (GPR). The signal transmitted by the antenna generates a beam that illuminates a strip of earth, consisting of a sinusoidal electromagnetic signal having a frequency that is varied in precise pre-determined progressive steps. This signal is mixed with the received (reflected) signal, thereby producing two sets of values corresponding to the phases of each frequency step or stage. Said sets of values, which are obtained throughout successive sweeps (as the antenna moves), are stored in the storage means and subsequently processed in the processing means in order to obtain a final map or image of the location of the objects above ground or below ground. |
| US08508400B2 |
Successive approximation register analog to digital converter and conversion method thereof
A SAR ADC is provided. A DAC provides an intermediate analog signal according to an analog input signal, a most significant bit capacitance and a plurality of significant bit capacitances smaller than the most significant bit capacitance. A first switched capacitor array selectively provides the most significant bit capacitance or the significant bit capacitances according to a select signal. Sum of the significant bit capacitances is equal to the most significant bit capacitance. The second switched capacitor array provides the significant bit capacitances when the first switched capacitor array provides the most significant bit capacitance, and provides the most significant bit capacitance when the first switched capacitor array provides the significant bit capacitances. A comparator provides a comparison result according to the intermediate analog signal. A SAR logic provides an digital output signal according to the comparison result. |
| US08508397B2 |
Device for the analog/digital conversion of signals in a large dynamic range
A device for expanding the dynamic range of a broadband analog/digital converter is provided. The device comprises a splitter module configured to split an analog input signal into a first analog signal output on a first signal branch, and a second analog signal output on a second signal branch. The device further comprises a first analog/digital converter configured to digitize the first analog signal into a first digital signal, a second analog/digital converter configured to digitize the second analog signal into a second digital signal, and a first switching module configured to switch one of the first signal branch and the second signal branch to an output of the apparatus. The device further comprises a first regulating module, disposed between the second analog/digital converter and the first switching module, wherein the first regulating module is configured to adaptively match amplitudes of the second digital signal to amplitudes of the first digital signal. |
| US08508396B2 |
Signal processing device, signal processing method, reception device, transmission/reception device, communication module, and electronic device
It is possible to reduce a noise component mixed in an analog signal while suppressing increase of power consumption. An amplification unit amplifies the inputted analog signal and converts the amplified signal into a digital signal of a predetermined format for output. The amplification unit includes: an analog circuit unit for processing an analog signal; and a digital circuit unit for processing a digital signal; wherein the circuits are arranged on a substrate. The analog circuit unit includes: an amplification circuit for amplifying the inputted analog signal; and an LPF for cutting off a high frequency component of the amplified analog signal. The digital circuit unit includes: a rectification circuit which rectifies a waveform of the signal whose high-frequency component is cut off; and digital output circuit which converts the waveform-rectified signal into a digital signal of a predetermined format for output. |
| US08508393B2 |
Analog-to-digital conversion apparatus and signal processing system
An analog-to-digital conversion apparatus includes: a first analog-to-digital converter configured to convert an input analog signal into a digital signal; a second analog-to-digital converter configured to convert an analog signal generated by multiplying the input analog signal by α times with a coefficient α into a digital signal; a first non-linear compensation part configured to compensate a non-linear distortion of a first output signal of the first analog-to-digital converter; a second non-linear compensation part configured to compensate a non-linear distortion of a second output signal of the second analog-to-digital converter; and a non-linear detection part configured to estimate how much the non-linear distortions of the first and second analog-to-digital converters are compensated by the first and second non-linear compensation parts depending on first and second signals by the first and second non-linear compensation parts. |
| US08508388B2 |
Systems and methods for using multiple hypotheses in a visual simultaneous localization and mapping system
The invention is related to methods and apparatus that use a visual sensor and dead reckoning sensors to process Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM). These techniques can be used in robot navigation. Advantageously, such visual techniques can be used to autonomously generate and update a map. Unlike with laser rangefinders, the visual techniques are economically practical in a wide range of applications and can be used in relatively dynamic environments, such as environments in which people move. One embodiment further advantageously uses multiple particles to maintain multiple hypotheses with respect to localization and mapping. Further advantageously, one embodiment maintains the particles in a relatively computationally-efficient manner, thereby permitting the SLAM processes to be performed in software using relatively inexpensive microprocessor-based computer systems. |
| US08508385B2 |
Metering device for the inhalation of a pulverulent substance
A metering device can be activated by a suction airflow of a user for inhaling a powdery substance, in particular of medicinal type, which is arranged in a supply chamber and can be brought out of there into an apparent discharge standby position by removing a mouthpiece sealing cap by a metering chamber of a metering rod. The metering device provides piston-extensible tabs for sealing off the metering chamber, particularly for the facilitated opening of the metering chamber. |
| US08508384B2 |
Rearview mirror assembly for vehicle
A rearview mirror assembly for a vehicle includes an electro-optic mirror reflective element having a front glass substrate and a rear glass substrate, with no portion of the rear glass substrate extending beyond any portion of the front glass substrate. The reflective element includes a perimeter band disposed around a perimeter border region of a second surface of the front glass substrate. The perimeter band generally conceals the presence of a perimeter seal from view by the driver of the vehicle. A plastic molding may be circumferentially disposed about the circumferential edge of the front glass substrate without overlapping onto the first surface of the front glass substrate. The outermost part of the plastic molding may lack a sharp edge. The plane of the first surface of the front glass substrate may be generally flush with the outermost part of the plastic molding. |
| US08508383B2 |
Interior rearview mirror system
An interior rearview mirror system of a vehicle includes an interior rearview mirror assembly having an electro-optic reflective element. The reflective element includes (i) an electro-optic active region where an electro-optic medium is disposed and is bounded by a perimeter seal and (ii) a user input region outboard of the electro-optic active region. At least one backlit user input, such as a capacitive touch sensor, is disposed at the reflective element at the user input region and outboard of the perimeter seal and the electro-optic medium. A control is operable to determine a location of a touch or proximity of a finger of a user that is at or near the first surface of the front substrate at the user input region, and the control generates an output signal indicative of a determined touch or proximity of a finger of a user. |
| US08508382B1 |
Light emitting inflatable safety beacon
A light emitting inflatable safety beacon is disclosed for identifying a location of the beacon. The beacon comprises an elongated bladder defining an interior chamber extending between an upper end and a lower end. A tether extends between a first end and a second end. A couple links the tether with the elongated bladder for suspending the tether within the interior chamber. A light source is secured to the tether for emitting an electromagnetic radiation. The electromagnetic radiation internally illuminates the elongated bladder for creating an illuminated beacon. The electromagnetic radiation traverses the elongated bladder for creating a location beacon. |
| US08508380B2 |
Device for detecting the opening of a hatch in an item of equipment comprising one or more electronic circuit boards
The present invention relates to a device for detecting the opening of a hatch closing a case in an item of equipment including one or more electronic circuit boards, the planes of which are substantially orthogonal to the plane formed by the said hatch, at least one of the said boards including at least two conductive parts electrically insulated from one another and each connected to a detection circuit, a conductive element being attached to the inner side of the hatch, a portion of each of the conductive parts extending laterally to the side of the edge of the said electronic circuit board which is proximal to the hatch, the said conductive element being placed facing the said conductive parts so as to come into contact with them when the hatch is placed in the closed position. |
| US08508379B2 |
Motion-based disabling of messaging on a wireless communications device by differentiating a driver from a passenger
When a wireless communications device is traveling at a speed exceeding a lower threshold but less than an upper threshold, the device is presumed to be traveling in a motor vehicle. In order to inhibit operation of the wireless communication device by a driver without restricting operation by a passenger, access to certain device functions or applications such as e-mail, text messaging, etc. are limited by challenging the user of the device to respond to an ergonomic challenge that requires two-handed user input. Only if two-handed input is received will the wireless communications device grant access to e-mail or instant messaging. |
| US08508377B2 |
Monitoring circuit for vehicular lamp
A monitoring circuit includes a first detecting unit, a second detecting unit, a comparing unit and an indicating unit. The first detecting unit is configured for detecting a temperature of a vehicular lamp and sending out a first signal. The second detecting unit is configured for detecting the surrounding temperature and sending out a second signal. The comparing unit is configured for comparing the first signal with the second signal, and controls the indicating unit to show the state of the vehicular lamp according to the compared result. When the first signal is higher than the second signal, the comparing unit controls the indicating unit to show that the vehicular lamp is unlit. When the first signal is equal to or lower than the second signal, the comparing unit controls the indicating unit to show that the vehicular lamp is lit. |
| US08508373B2 |
Fluid leak detection and alarm
A method and a device are disclosed for reliably detecting fluid leaks while minimizing false alarms. A leak sensor in proximity of a flat leakage surface, such as a floor area, is used to sense a permittivity of a media, such as water, coming in contact with the leak sensor. Leak is indicated if the sensed permittivity exceeds a permittivity threshold within a predefined time period. The predefined time period indicates a rate threshold that if exceeded indicates relatively fast accumulation of fluid in an air gap between the leak sensor and the leakage surface, precluding or reducing the possibility of false alarm due to gradual increase in environmental humidity or moisture. The air gap defines a fluid volume that is substantially filled before leak is detected. |
| US08508372B2 |
Method and system for fall detection
A method and system for detecting motion is described. A data acquisition system is positioned at a desired position by establishing a reference line based on the desired position of the data acquisition system. Further, a field of view of the data acquisition system is partitioned into an upper region and a lower region based on the reference line. Subsequently, motion information corresponding to a person in the field of view is acquired. Additionally, it is determined if the acquired motion information corresponds to the upper region and/or the lower region in the field of view. Moreover, a magnitude of motion and an area of motion of the person are computed using the acquired motion information. Subsequently, a motion event corresponding to the person in the lower region of the field of view is detected based on the determined magnitude of motion and the determined area of motion. |
| US08508370B1 |
Synthetic thermoelectric materials comprising phononic crystals
Synthetic thermoelectric materials comprising phononic crystals can simultaneously have a large Seebeck coefficient, high electrical conductivity, and low thermal conductivity. Such synthetic thermoelectric materials can enable improved thermoelectric devices, such as thermoelectric generators and coolers, with improved performance. Such synthetic thermoelectric materials and devices can be fabricated using techniques that are compatible with standard microelectronics. |
| US08508369B2 |
RFID tag system with block coding, such as space-time block coding
An apparatus for use in an RFID data collection system includes an antenna portion for wirelessly exchanging signals and a memory portion for storing RFID data. A signal processing portion is coupled among the antenna portion and the memory portion. The signal processing portion is configured to receive RFID data and to at least encode or decode the received RFID data via space-time block codes (STBC). For example, an RFID tag employs two spatially separated antennas and circuitry for transmitting to an RFID reader data stored in tag memory as STBC encoded data. Other configurations are also disclosed. |
| US08508365B2 |
Alarm color plate structure of a micro-differential pressure gauge
An alarm color plate structure of a micro-differential pressure gauge includes a transparent casing. The transparent casing has a slot which is located corresponding to the range of movement of a pointer or a scale plate. An alarm plate is provided in the slot. The alarm plate has a plurality of areas with different colors or marks for the user to know whether the position and the value of the pointer are normal or not. |
| US08508361B2 |
Personal locator device for a child having an integrated mobile communication device that qualifies to be carried in an educational setting
A personal locator device includes a housing that has a processor being coupled to a bus and a memory being coupled to the bus in the housing. The personal locator device also has a global positioning system comprising a receiver and a transmitter being coupled to the bus. The memory comprises an identification code. The personal locator device also has a mobile communication unit being coupled to the bus and a user interface comprising at least two inputs disposed on the housing. The personal locator device also has a power source. The transmitter is adapted to be controlled by the processor to provide a distress signal to a remote entity identifying the personal locator device by the identification code that a user associated with the personal locator device is in distress and the mobile communication unit is adapted to be programmable to at least two destinations to initiate communication to at least two individuals with each individual associated with one of the at least two inputs being preset in the memory. The personal locator device is adapted to not include a keypad for entering destination information individuals other than the at least two inputs being preset in the memory so the personal locator device qualifies to be carried in an setting that prohibits mobile telephones. |
| US08508359B2 |
Method and system for wireless configuration, control, and status reporting of devices in a fire alarm system
A method and system for configured one or more fire alarm system devices in a fire alarm system are disclosed. The fire alarm system includes the fire alarm system devices, a fire alarm panel, and a wireless handheld device. The fire alarm system devices communicate with the fire alarm panel via a first communications interface (such as a wired communications interface), and the wireless handheld device communicates with the fire alarm panel via a second communications interface (such as a wireless communications interface). In operation, the fire alarm control panel receives an indication from one of the fire alarm system devices of a user input. In response, the fire alarm panel sends a communication (such as a form) to the wireless handheld device. In response to the communication, the wireless handheld device sends a response to the fire alarm control panel (such as including information in the form). The fire alarm panel may then update its memory with the information sent from the wireless handheld device in order to control the operation of the fire alarm system device. |
| US08508357B2 |
Methods and apparatus to encode and decode audio for shopper location and advertisement presentation tracking
Methods and apparatus to encode and decode audio for shopper location and advertisement presentation tracking are disclosed. A method for tracking a shopper includes receiving a first audio signal at a first location with a decoder attached to a shopping implement, determining a first code encoded in the first audio signal, receiving a second audio signal at a second location with the decoder, determining a second code encoded in the first audio signal, and transmitting the first code and the second code to a data retrieval device. |
| US08508351B2 |
Method for warning the driver of a motor vehicle of increased risk of an accident
In a method for warning the driver of a motor vehicle, the yaw rate is altered in the event of an increased risk of an accident, and the change in the yaw rate serves to warn the driver of the increased risk state. |
| US08508347B2 |
Apparatus and method for proximity based input
In accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention, a method is provided for controlling display operations in an electronic device. The electronic device provides an input mode, in which a first function is associated with a hovering input and a second function is associated with a touch input to an input surface. A three-dimensional virtual user interface item is displayed, and in response to detecting an input object within a guard range in relation to the input surface, the virtual user interface item is adapted to alert the user to avoid unintentionally touching the input surface. |
| US08508345B2 |
Remote control accessory for a wireless communication system
A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a remote control accessory for a wireless communication system, including a radio frequency (RF) to infrared (IR) converter for receiving RF signals transmitted thereto and converting the RF signals to IR commands, a plurality of IR transmitters for transmitting the IR commands, and a housing assembly for carrying the RF to IR converter and the plurality of IR transmitters. The plurality of IR transmitters are integrated into the housing assembly with no exposed wires. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
| US08508343B2 |
Reader control system
An RFID reader control system and method is provided. A protocol for controlling an RFID reader and an RFID reader control unit of a mobile phone is defined. Messages, information, commands, responses, and notification are constructed and transmitted between the RPM reader and the RFID reader control unit. |
| US08508342B2 |
Transmitting / receiving antenna and transmitter / receiver device using the same
The present invention is concerned with a transmitting/receiving antenna, which includes a dielectric board, a driven loop antenna provided to the dielectric board, transmit processing portion connection terminals connected to the driven loop antenna, a transmitting/receiving loop antenna arranged in close vicinity to the driven loop antenna in a non-contact state, a resonance capacitor connected to both ends of the transmitting/receiving loop antenna, and receive processing portion connection terminals connected to the transmitting/receiving loop antenna. The driven loop antenna is constructed to have a loop wound in a single turn, and the transmitting/receiving loop antenna is constructed to have a loop wound in plural turns. According to this configuration, a wider frequency band of the frequency characteristic and a reduction of the power consumption can be achieved. |
| US08508338B1 |
Method and system for defeat of replay attacks against biometric authentication systems
The present invention is directed to a method and system for defeating replay attacks against biometric authentication systems by randomly prompting the subject to adjust a part of their body in some measurable way. The timing of these adjustments would be used to verify that the biometric input is coming from a live subject and not a recording. One embodiment of the design would include a commodity camera-equipped mobile device (130) connected to an authentication server (110) via the Internet (120). In this embodiment an encrypted video stream of the subject—for example his or her hand (140a)—would be established from the mobile device to the authentication server. The authentication server would generate a unique series of time delays, at which intervals a prompt—for example to extend or retract a specific finger—would be relayed from the server to the mobile device and subsequently the subject. The subject's coordinated response to these timed prompts—and only these timed prompts—would be measured by the authentication server. By comparing biometric features from the video stream—for example measurements of finger dimensions—to the known values for the subject in a database the authentication server will decide whether or not to authenticate the user. |
| US08508335B1 |
Reverse geocache puzzle
A box contains a motorized latch for locking the lid of the box and a GPS device for determining a geo-location. The box also contains an electronic controller, which is programmed with a predetermined geo-location and is programmed for driving the latch and a display. The controller is programmed to cause the display to show distances to the predetermined geo-location in response to actuations of a push button mounted on the box. The controller is also responsive to respective current locations. The controller is programmed to disengage the latch If a distance indicated by the GPS device to the predetermined geo-location is less than a predetermined distance, revealing whatever treasures have been hidden inside the box. |
| US08508334B2 |
Inductive coupling exchange in a portable intelligent object with central and peripheral circuits
A portable intelligent object has first and second communication interfaces with a station. The first communication interface can send and/or receive data by means of inductive coupling with the station. The object also has an integrated peripheral circuit. All of the data exchanged between the peripheral circuit and the central circuit passes through the station. |
| US08508331B2 |
Electronic device and method of controlling the same
An electronic device is provided that comprises a communication unit; an output unit; and a controller configured to output at least one of a first user interface and a second user interface through the output unit, in a case of entering a high rate time slot determined based on electricity rate information received through the communication unit while outputting contents through the output unit, wherein the first user interface queries whether to continuously output the contents through the output unit and wherein the second user interface is to receive a selection associated with a replacement electronic device for outputting the contents. |
| US08508326B2 |
Surge protection device using metal oxide varistors (MOVs) as the active energy control multiple gap discharging chain
The present invention may provide a surge protection device, which may include a reference node, first, second, and third nodes, a first arcing section (GAP) coupled between the first and second nodes, and configured to receive a surge voltage from the first node, a first metal oxide varistor (MOV) coupled between the second and reference nodes, and configured to reduce the surge voltage to a first sub-surge voltage at the second node, a second arcing section (GAP) coupled between the second and third nodes, and configured to receive the first sub-surge voltage from the second node, and a second metal oxide varistor (MOV) coupled between the third and reference nodes, and configured to reduce the first sub-surge voltage to a second sub-surge voltage at the third node. |
| US08508325B2 |
Chip varistor and chip varistor manufacturing method
A chip varistor is provided with a varistor section, a plurality of electroconductive sections, and a plurality of terminal electrodes. The varistor section is comprised of a sintered body containing ZnO as a major component and exhibits the nonlinear voltage-current characteristics. The plurality of electroconductive sections are arranged on both sides of the varistor section and each electroconductive section has a first principal surface connected to the varistor section and a second principal surface opposed to the first principal surface. The terminal electrodes are connected to the respective second principal surfaces of the electroconductive sections. |
| US08508323B2 |
Transformer
A transformer has primary coils and secondary coils that are arranged in a laminated manner in a direction of a winding axis and are mutually insulated. The secondary coils are composed of conducting plates in a plurality of layers arranged in the laminated manner in the direction of the winding axis, and the conducting plates are electrically connected in series. Connecting portions between the each conducting plates are arranged in an inner space of the primary coils. |
| US08508319B1 |
Rapidly tunable RF cavity
A rapidly tunable RF cavity includes a cavity body, and at least one ferroelectric element disposed within a hollow interior region of the cavity body. A biasing system provides a nominal DC electric field bias across the ferroelectric element so as to induce a rapid change in dielectric permittivity of the ferroelectric element, and a corresponding change in resonant frequency of the RF cavity. A change in dielectric permittivity of up to about 20% can be induced within a response time of less than 10 nanoseconds, with a biasing field strength of less than 50 kV. In some embodiments, the ferroelectric element is made of BST (barium-strontium titanate). The ferroelectric element may be cylindrically shaped, and coaxial with the cavity body. The biasing system may include one or more copper cylinders supported by supporting rods. |
| US08508315B2 |
Acoustically coupled resonator filter with impedance transformation ratio controlled by resonant frequency difference between two coupled resonators
A signal processing device includes a first acoustic resonator, a second acoustic resonator disposed on the first acoustic resonator, and a coupling layer between the first and the second acoustic resonators. The first acoustic resonator has a first electrical impedance and a first resonance frequency and includes a first set of electrodes, and a first piezoelectric layer having a first thickness, disposed between the first set of electrodes. The second acoustic resonator has a second electrical impedance and a second resonance frequency, and includes a second set of electrodes, and a second piezoelectric layer having a second thickness, wherein the second piezoelectric layer is disposed between the second set of electrodes. The first electrical impedance at a passband frequency of the device substantially differs from the second electrical impedance at the passband frequency of the device. The first and second resonance frequencies are substantially different from each other. |
| US08508312B2 |
OMT type broadband multiband transmission-reception coupler-separator for RF frequency telecommunications antennas
The present invention relates to a multiband transmit-receive coupler-separator with a very wide band of the OMT (“OrthoMode Transducer”) type for microwave-frequency telecommunications antennae. This coupler comprises a port for propagating all of the frequencies, a body and a port for propagating high-frequency bands, these three portions being coaxial, and wide-band coupling slots for propagating the low-frequency bands made in the body and each associated with a waveguide, and it is characterized in that its body joining the two ports has a shape of revolution the profile of which changes according to a multipolynomial law, constantly decreasing from the port with the largest cross section to the port with the smallest cross section. This coupler can operate in order to couple and separate very wide bandwidths (the overall use of this coupler-separator being more than one octave), and two or four wide-band coupling slots are necessary for the propagation of linear and circular polarizations after recombination. |
| US08508310B2 |
Method and device for generating PWM signals
A PWM signal for driving power transistors of a half-bridge of a converter is generated with the aid of a digital circuit, in which an internal reference value is compared to the counter content of a counting ramp. In this context, a logic state of the PWM signal depends upon whether the internal reference value is greater than the counter content of the counting ramp. After each comparison between the internal reference value and the counter content, an n-bit long data word dependent on the result of this comparison is output serially as PWM signal, n being greater than or equal to 2. The resolution of the PWM signal is thereby improved by the factor n in comparison to conventional systems, without markedly increasing the circuit expenditure. |
| US08508309B2 |
Wideband phase modulation methods and apparatus
A wideband phase modulator comprises a multiphase generator, a phase selector, and a phase adjuster. The wideband phase modulator is configured to receive an N-bit digital phase-modulating signal comprising a timed sequence of N-bit phase-modulating words, where N is a positive integer representing the bit resolution of the N-bit digital phase-modulating signal. The multiphase generator generates a plurality of coarse carrier phases, all having the same carrier frequency but each offset in phase relative to the other. The M most significant bits of the N-bit phase-modulating words are used to form M-bit phase select words that control the output phase of the phase selector. The phase adjuster performs a precision rotation operation, whereby a selected coarse carrier phase is adjusted so that the phase of the resulting final precision phase-modulated signal more closely aligns with a desired precision phase. |
| US08508308B2 |
Automatic frequency calibration of a multi-LCVCO phase locked loop with adaptive thresholds and programmable center control voltage
Described embodiments provide a method of calibrating, by a calibration engine, a phase-locked loop (PLL) having one or more adjustable oscillators. The method includes entering a calibration mode of the PLL. The PLL is set to an initial state, thereby selecting one of the adjustable oscillators for calibration, an initial threshold window, and an initial tuning band of the selected adjustable oscillator. If the control signal of the selected adjustable oscillator is not within the initial threshold window, the calibration engine iteratively adjusts at least one of: (i) the selected tuning band of the selected adjustable oscillator, (ii) the selected adjustable oscillator, and (iii) the selected threshold window until the control signal of the selected adjustable oscillator is within the adjusted threshold window. If the control signal is within the threshold window, the one or more calibration settings of the PLL are stored and used to set the PLL operation. |
| US08508294B2 |
Power amplifier with feedback impedance for stable output
In one embodiment, an apparatus includes an amplifier circuit having a phase shift. The amplifier circuit amplifies a signal for wireless transmission. A feedback circuit is coupled to the amplifier circuit and includes a capacitor. An input impedance to the amplifier circuit has a same impedance characteristic as a feedback circuit impedance of the feedback circuit. A total phase shift of the signal for the amplifier circuit and the feedback circuit is less than a threshold. |
| US08508290B2 |
Interface for MEMS inertial sensors
In a high-performance interface circuit for micro-electromechanical (MEMS) inertial sensors, an excitation signal (used to detect capacitance variation) is used to control the value of an actuation signal bit stream to allow the dynamic range of both actuation and detection paths to be maximized and to prevent folding of high frequency components of the actuation bit stream due to mixing with the excitation signal. In another aspect, the effects of coupling between actuation signals and detection signals may be overcome by performing a disable/reset of at least one of and preferably both of the detection circuitry and the MEMS detection electrodes during actuation signal transitions. In a still further aspect, to get a demodulated signal to have a low DC component, fine phase adjustment may be achieved by configuring filters within the sense and drive paths to have slightly different center frequencies and hence slightly different delays. |
| US08508285B2 |
Analog delay lines and adaptive biasing
Examples of analog delay lines and analog delay systems, such as DLLs incorporating analog delay lines are described, as are circuits and methods for adaptive biasing. Embodiments of adaptive biasing are described and may generate a bias signal for an analog delay line during start-up. The bias signal may be based in part on the frequency of operation of the analog delay line. |
| US08508281B2 |
Bridge circuits and their components
A half bridge is described with at least one transistor having a channel that is capable in a first mode of operation of blocking a substantial voltage in at least one direction, in a second mode of operation of conducting substantial current in one direction through the channel and in a third mode of operation of conducting substantial current in an opposite direction through the channel. The half bridge can have two circuits with such a transistor. |
| US08508272B2 |
Data output circuit and data output method thereof
A data output circuit and a data output method thereof are provided. The data output circuit includes a delay locked loop, a duty ratio correction block, and an output unit. The delay locked loop corrects a duty ratio of a first internal clock. The delay locked loop includes a correction enable signal output unit configured to output a correction enable signal when the operation of correcting the duty ratio of the first internal clock is completed. The duty ratio correction block corrects the duty ratio of the first internal clock by using a duty ratio detection signal in response to the correction enable signal, and outputs the corrected first internal clock as an output clock. The output unit detects a duty ratio of the output clock, generates the duty ratio detection signal to the duty ratio correction block, and outputs a data strobe signal in response to the output clock. |
| US08508268B2 |
PLL circuit, calibration method and wireless communication terminal
An ILFD controller sets a control parameter on the basis of a frequency of a frequency-divided signal and a frequency of a reference signal measured by a clock counter. A VCO controller selects an oscillation band that defines an oscillation frequency of a VCO and also selects an oscillation band of the VCO on the basis of the frequency of the reference signal and a frequency of a frequency-divided signal that is a result obtained by frequency-dividing an output signal, which is delivered from the VCO in response to the selected oscillation band, by means of an ILFD and a frequency divider. |
| US08508259B2 |
Method for driving non-linear load elements based on load current
A method for driving a non-linear load element. On account of the non-linear interrelationship between the voltage and the current at the load element and the related non-linear dependence of the power loss on the quantities “voltage” and “current”, an adjustment of the switching speed only on the basis of the power loss in the switching element cannot be carried out with non-linear load elements without being confronted with undesirable switching losses and related electromagnetic noise fields. Therefore, the load current currently flowing in the load element is picked up in addition to the currently determined power loss in the switching element, and the switching speed of the switching element is controlled in dependence on the determined power loss and on the current picked up. The switching speed can be optimally adjusted when driving the non-linear load elements by means of PWM. |
| US08508258B2 |
Driver circuit for switching device
A driver circuit that lowers the dependence of the loss in the wide gap semiconductor device upon the temperature is provided. A gate driver circuit for voltage driven power semiconductor switching device includes a power semiconductor switching device, a driver circuit for supplying a drive signal to a gate terminal of the switching device with reference to an emitter control terminal or a source control terminal of the switching device, and a unit for detecting a temperature of the switching device. The temperature of the power semiconductor switching device is detected, and a gate drive voltage or a gate drive resistance value is changed based on the detected temperature. |
| US08508254B2 |
Apparatus for using metastability-hardened storage circuits in logic devices and associated methods
An integrated circuit (IC) includes a set of metastability-hardened storage circuits. Each metastability-hardened storage circuit may include: (a) a pulse width distortion circuit; (b) a first circuit powered by a nominal power supply voltage, and a second circuit powered by a higher-than-nominal supply voltage; (c) an inverter and a bias circuit, where the bias circuit provides a bias current based on an intermediate state of the inverter to resolve a metastable state of the inverter; or (d) a latch, and a dynamic bias circuit that causes current to be injected into the latch to resolve a metastable state of the latch. |
| US08508253B2 |
Nonvolatile logic circuit and a method for operating the same
A nonvolatile logic circuit includes logic configuration electrodes and input electrodes. The nonvolatile logic circuit is programmable to any one of the logics between the input signals selected from logical conjunction (AND), logical disjunction (OR), logical non-conjunction (NAND), logical non-disjunction (NOR), and logical exclusive disjunction (XOR) by changing applied voltages to the logic configuration electrodes. |
| US08508252B2 |
Variable resistor voltage driver with self-noise compensation circuit
A multi-PAM line driver circuit to drive input data along a transmission line from a voltage source is disclosed. The driver circuit includes a voltage source to supply a regulated voltage and a regulator current. A main branch is coupled between the voltage source and the transmission line and includes variable impedance circuitry. The main branch draws a drive current from the voltage source. A compensating branch is coupled to the voltage source in parallel with the main branch and includes a second variable impedance circuit to draw a compensating current from the voltage source based on the drive current, such that a sum of the drive current and the compensating current is substantially constant during the transmission of the input data. |
| US08508249B2 |
Semiconductor integrated circuit and method for designing the same
A semiconductor integrated circuit according to one embodiment includes a plurality of flip-flop groups configured by dividing a plurality of flip-flops, connected in series, for carrying out a serial operation of serially transferring data, a continuous signal determination circuit configured to output a first signal if outputs of the flip-flops contained in the flip-flop group match, and output a second signal in other cases; and a clock gating circuit configured not to provide a clock signal when receiving the first signal and to provide a clock signal when receiving the second signal with respect to the flip-flops other than a head of the flip-flop group. |
| US08508248B1 |
Testing vias formed in printed circuit boards
A device provides a time domain reflectometry (TDR) or a vector network analyzer (VNA) test signal to a via test area provided on a printed circuit board (PCB), where the via test area includes vias and via stubs formed in the vias. The device also receives a reflected signal from each via in the via test area of the PCB, and compares the reflected signal from each via to a minimum impedance threshold. The device further provides, for display, an indication of passing for the PCB, when the reflected signals from the vias are greater than the minimum impedance threshold. |
| US08508242B2 |
Inductive position sensor
A rotary position sensor having a transmitter coil energized by a high frequency current source. A first receiver coil includes an even number N of loops wherein adjacent loops of the first receiver coil are oppositely wound. A second receiver coil also includes N loops where adjacent loops are oppositely wound. Furthermore, the second receiver coil is angularly offset from the first receiver coil by 180/N degrees. A noncircular coupler constructed of an electrically conductive material is rotatably mounted relative to the coils so that the coupler element overlies at least a portion of the first and second receiver coils. A circuit processes the output signals from the first and second receiver coils and generates an output signal representative of the rotational position of the coupler. |
| US08508241B2 |
Method and device for the calibration of network analyzers using a comb generator
A vectorial network analyzer including n test ports. With the connection of several different calibration standards to the test ports, several calibration measurements are implemented. For the calibration, different measurements are implemented. Initially, in n calibration measurements, a comb-generator signal is supplied via a direct connection successively to all n test ports. Using a measuring point at the output of the comb generator and the measuring point associated with the respective test port, phase measurements are implemented at all of the frequencies forming the comb-generator signal. A frequency-dependent phase offset is determined from the phase measurements. Moreover, in at least one measurement, all n test ports are terminated successively in each case using known, input impedances, identical within one measurement, of arbitrary transmission properties, wherein successively, all n test ports are excited using a transmission oscillator successively with all frequencies of the comb-generator signal. |
| US08508240B2 |
System and method for soft-field tomography data acquisition
A system and method for soft-field tomography data acquisition are provided. One system includes a plurality of transducers that correspond to a plurality of channels, and an excitation driver coupled to generate excitation signals for the plurality of transducers. The system also includes a single reference excitation source from which excitations are generated and one or more derived excitation sources. The one or more derived excitation sources derive excitations from the single reference excitation source that are applied to each of the plurality of channels. The system further includes a response detector and a reduced bit digitizer in each of the plurality of channels configured to digitize a measured response difference between the measured response at one or more of the transducers and at least one of an excitation of the single reference excitation source or an excitation derived from the single reference excitation source or a separate reference. |
| US08508232B2 |
Battery system with a current detection circuit
The battery system has a current detection circuit 2, an amplifier 6, and a detection circuit 7 that detects the current flowing through batteries 1 from amplifier 6 output. The current detection circuit 2 is provided with a voltage source circuit 8 that supplies a test voltage to the input-side of the amplifier 6. Current detection lines 10 connect the current detection resistor 5 to the input-side of the amplifier 6, and the detection circuit 7 stores a reference voltage corresponding to the current detection lines 10 in the connected state. When the voltage source circuit 8 supplies the test voltage to the input-side of the amplifier 6, the detection circuit 7 compares the amplifier 6 output voltage with the reference voltage. The detection circuit 7 detects an open-circuit in the current detection lines 10 by the shift in voltage from the reference voltage. |
| US08508231B2 |
Logging tool employing a monopole current injection electrode for microresistivity imaging
A microresistivity logging tool includes a monopole current injection electrode and first and second potential electrodes deployed on a downhole tool body. A controller is configured to apply a high frequency alternating current between the monopole current injection electrode and a return and measure a corresponding AC potential difference between the first and second electrodes. |
| US08508229B2 |
Shear mode pressure-activated driver for magnetic resonance elastography
A magnetic resonance elastography (“MRE”) driver that can produce shear waves in a subject without relying on mode conversion of longitudinal waves is disclosed. More specifically, the MRE driver includes a pneumatic driver located remotely from a magnetic resonance imaging (“MRI”) system which is operable in response to an applied electrical current to oscillate, a pressure-activated driver that is positioned on a subject in the MRI system, and a tube that is in fluid communication, at one end, with the pneumatic driver. The pressure-activated driver includes a base plate and a driver plate having a region between them that receives the tube. Oscillations of the pneumatic driver produce a pressure wave in the tube that causes the driver plate to vibrate. The driver plate rests against the subject of interest to apply a corresponding shear oscillatory force to the subject during the MRE examination. |
| US08508228B2 |
Local gradient system for imaging of the breast with planar arrangement
A coil arrangement for a magnetic resonance tomography apparatus has plates that each contain at least one gradient coil. |
| US08508227B2 |
Method for position dependent change in the magnetization in an object in a magnetic resonance experiment
A method for position dependent change in the magnetization in an object, according to a requirement in a magnetic resonance measurement, wherein radio-frequency pulses are irradiated in conjunction with supplementary magnetic fields that vary in space and over time and are superposed on the static and homogeneous basic field of a magnetic resonance measurement apparatus along a z-direction, is characterized in that non-linear supplementary magnetic fields are used, whose spatial gradient of the z-component is not constant at least at one instant of the irradiation, and that the radio-frequency pulses to be irradiated are calculated in advance, wherein progressions over time of the field strengths of the supplementary magnetic fields in the region of the object that are calculated and/or measured position-dependently are included in this calculation. This enables change in the magnetization with an at least locally spatially higher resolution and/or shorter irradiation duration of the RF pulses and supplementary magnetic fields than is feasible with linear supplementary magnetic fields produced by conventional gradient systems. In particular, this is possible under the technical and physiological conditions that currently constrain the performance of the known methods using linear supplementary fields. |
| US08508223B2 |
Non-contrast MRA using region-selective saturation pulse followed by non-region selective inversion recovery pulse to larger overlapped area
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) apparatus acquires magnetic resonance (MR) data associated with a plurality of different delay times according to a pulse sequence in which a region-selective saturation pulse is first applied, a region-non-selective inversion recovery pulse is then applied, and then the magnetic resonance data is acquired, the delay time being defined as a period from the saturation pulse application time to the start of MR data acquisition. A plurality of blood flow image data respectively associated with the plurality of different delay times are created using the acquired MR data. |
| US08508219B2 |
Object state detection apparatus and method
There is provided an apparatus and method for identifying and measuring the electric field strength which occurs from each of RFID tags arranged in a detection target space by a receiver to grasp the state of an object. The apparatus is provided with m (m>=1) electromagnetic field generation means provided near a space, the space being occupied by the object when the object is in a particular state; n (n>=1) electric field strength measurement means for identifying and measuring electric field strength which occurs from each of the m electromagnetic field generation means; characteristic extraction means for calculating characteristics from m×n time-series data of the electric field strength; and state identification means for identifying, by statistical processing, a state from the characteristics and characteristic data in each state for learning. |
| US08508217B2 |
Output circuit of charge mode sensor
An output circuit of a charge mode sensor includes a second resistor and an operational amplifier. The second resistor connects an output portion of the charge mode sensor and a ground. The operational amplifier is configured to output a detection signal that varies in accordance with an amount of charge kept in the charge mode sensor. The operational amplifier includes an inverting input portion, a non-inverting input portion, and an output portion. The inverting input portion is connected to the output portion of the charge mode sensor via a sensor cable. The non-inverting input portion is connected to a reference voltage. The output portion is connected to the inverting input portion via a first resistor. |
| US08508216B2 |
Monolithic sensor arrangement and method for controlling a monolithic sensor arrangement
A monolithic sensor arrangement includes a housing, a sensor integrated in the housing, and two or three connecting contacts deployed on the housing so as to provide a contact with the sensor. The housing also includes an integrated digital circuit includes a freely programmable digital processor, a program memory and a data memory, which are used to control and/or process the functionalities and/or the measured data of the sensor. |
| US08508215B2 |
Arrangement for measuring at least one value of a voltage applied to an electronic component
An arrangement for measuring values of a voltage applied to an electronic component. The arrangement comprises a first signal transmitter which can emit a first switching signal, a first switch coupled to the first signal transmitter and can be controlled by the first switching signal. The electronic component is connected in series to the first switch and can be coupled, via the same, to an electric energy source. A second signal transmitter, which can emit a second switching signal. A second switch is coupled to the second signal transmitter and can be controlled by the second switching signal. A capacitive accumulator is connected in series to the second switch and can be connected in parallel, via the same, to the electronic component or to the series connection formed by the electronic component and the first switch. An analog/digital converter which is connected in parallel to the capacitive accumulator. |
| US08508213B2 |
Frequency measurement device
A frequency measurement device for measuring a frequency of a signal to be measured including a pulse signal, includes: a signal multiplier section that multiplies the signal to be measured by n (n is an integer) and outputs a multiplied signal; a counter section that counts the multiplied signal with a predetermined gate time and outputs a count value of the frequency of the signal to be measured at a predetermined period; and a low-pass filter that outputs a signal corresponding to the frequency of the signal to be measured based on the count value outputted at the predetermined period. |
| US08508212B2 |
Calibration of non-contact current sensors
Calibration of a non-contact current sensor provides improved accuracy for measuring current conducted through a conductor such as an AC branch circuit wire. In a calibration mode, a predetermined current is injected through a voltage sensing conductor integrated in the non-contact current sensor. The magnitude of the magnetic field is measured using a sensing element of the non-contact current sensor. Then, when operating in measurement mode, a current conducted in a wire passing through the non-contact current sensor is determined by correcting the output of the non-contact current sensor using the result of the measurement made in the calibration mode. The voltage sensing conductor is used to provide an indication of the magnitude and/or the phase of the electrostatic potential on the wire. The calibration current may be a DC current, and calibration may be performed while the conductor is carrying an AC current. |
| US08508199B2 |
Current limitation for LDO
A method and circuits to limit the output load current of a current driven LDO voltage regulator are disclosed. The current through a second pass transistor, being in parallel to a first pass transistor and being a fraction of the current through the first pass transistor is measured and compared with a reference current. In case the current through the second pass transistor is larger than this reference current the current through the gates of both pass devices is reduced and thus the output load current of the voltage regulator is limited. |
| US08508194B2 |
Semiconductor device
Provided is a semiconductor device that may include a switching device having a negative threshold voltage, and a driving unit between a power terminal and a ground terminal and providing a driving voltage for driving the switching device. The switching device may be connected to a virtual ground node having a virtual ground voltage that is greater than a ground voltage supplied from the ground terminal and may be turned on when a difference between the driving voltage and the virtual ground voltage is greater than the negative threshold voltage. |
| US08508183B2 |
System and method for compensating for impedance loss associated with an external charging unit
There is disclosed a charging unit for charging a rechargeable battery on an external mobile device, the charging unit configured to be electrically coupled to the mobile device for electrical communication thereof, the charging unit comprising: a charging circuit comprising a charger, the charger configured to: operate in a first mode to provide a constant pre-defined charge current to the external battery based on an output voltage of the charger; operate in a second mode to provide a constant pre-defined charge voltage to the external battery; switch from the first mode to the second mode when the output voltage of the charger reaches a predefined threshold voltage; and an offset compensator configured for applying an offset voltage to the charger to maintain the charger in the first mode to compensate for impedance loss between the charger and the external battery thereby allowing the external battery voltage to reach the threshold voltage. |
| US08508181B2 |
Adjustable frequency drive and system
An adjustable frequency drive includes a base having a first portion and a second portion, and an active front end converter disposed on the base. The converter includes an input, an output, and a plurality of first electronic switches electrically connected between the input and the output. An inverter is disposed on the base and includes an input electrically connected to the output of the active front end converter, an output, a plurality of capacitors disposed on the first portion of the base and electrically connected to the input of the inverter, a plurality of second electronic switches disposed on the second portion of the base and electrically connected between the input and the output of the inverter, and a heat pipe assembly. The inverter is structured to provide a single, three-phase output structure. |
| US08508175B2 |
Driver circuit
A stepping motor includes two coils. A driver circuit drives the stepping motor by setting dissimilar phases of supply currents to these two coils. One terminal of one coil is connected to ground and another terminal is set to a high impedance state, and an induced voltage generated at that coil is detected as a voltage with respect to ground. Then, in accordance with the state of the detected induced voltage, the magnitude of motor drive current supplied to the two coils is controlled. |
| US08508171B2 |
Position control apparatus
A position control apparatus calculates a position detection value by adding an output of a first-order delay circuit 17 that receives a difference between a driven member position detection value Pl and a motor position detection value Pm to the motor position detection value Pm, and uses the obtained position detection value as a position feedback value. An aging corrector 30 suppresses low frequency vibrations by controlling a time constant Tp of the first-order delay circuit 17 in such a way as to increase the time constant when a vibratory state of the driven member is detected. |
| US08508167B2 |
Actuation device
The invention relates to an actuation device for pull-outs, shelf boards, flaps, or other such elements to be opened, particularly front elements of particularly kitchen and office furniture, kitchen appliances and flush-mounted appliances, product dispensing devices, and the like, having components comprising a corpus, wherein the element to be opened can be transferred into an open position relative to the corpus 2 by way of a drive unit 5, the drive unit 5 can be activated by way of control means, and the control means comprise a front body sound sensor 6 that is associated with the front element 3. In order to create an actuation device, the front surface of which is to be configured in a manner that is free of impairment, the control means have a second corpus body sound sensor 7 (solid body sound sensor) that is disposed at a distance from the front body sound sensor 6 in or on the corpus interior 4, wherein the corpus sound signals of the front body sound sensor 6 and of the corpus body sound sensor 7 can be compared to each other in an analysis unit of the control means, and the drive unit 5 can be activated by way of the control means as a function of the result of the signal comparison. |
| US08508163B2 |
Operating device preferably for machines for controlling and inspecting containers and/or their contents, and corresponding machine
The invention is an operating device including an apparatus suited to move a support with an alternating motion around an axis. The apparatus includes one or more permanent magnets arranged along a section of a circumference that is concentric with the axis and a winding controlled by a control unit. The invention also concerns a machine for checking and inspecting containers. |
| US08508161B2 |
Drive apparatus
A drive apparatus includes a magnet rotor having a plurality of magnetic poles that are magnetized, a stator having a magnetic pole portion that opposes each pole of the magnet rotor, a coil configured to excite the magnetic pole portion, a position detector configured to detect a position of the magnet rotor, a first driver configured to switch an electrification state of the coil in accordance with a preset time interval, a second driver configured to switch an electrification state of the coil in accordance with an output of the position detector, and a controller configured to select the first driver when the output of the position detector is less than a first threshold, and to select the second driver when the output of the position detector is equal to or larger than the first threshold. |
| US08508158B2 |
High-current dc proton accelerator
A dc accelerator system able to accelerate high currents of proton beams at high energies is provided. The accelerator system includes a dc high-voltage, high-current power supply, an evacuated ion accelerating tube, a proton ion source, a dipole analyzing magnet and a vacuum pump located in the high-voltage terminal. The high-current, high-energy dc proton beam can be directed to a number of targets depending on the applications such as boron neutron capture therapy BNCT applications, NRA applications, and silicon cleaving. |
| US08508157B2 |
Power supply device for driving light emitting diode
A power supply device for driving a light emitting diode (LED) capable of controlling the switching of multiple output powers, in synchronization with the frequency of one of the multiple output powers and simplifying a power conversion stage in supplying power for driving an LED. |
| US08508156B2 |
Energy saving LED lamp
An energy saving LED lamp includes an illuminating device, a mode switching device, a motion detecting device and a controlling unit. The illuminating device is for emitting light. The mode switching device is for switching the illuminating device to work between an illuminating mode and a power saving mode. The motion detecting device is for detecting surrounding human motions and generating a first signal in condition that there is no human motion detected around the LED lamp within a predetermined period of time. The controlling unit is for receiving the first signal generated by the motion detecting device and automatically adjusting brightness of light generated by the illuminating device when having received the first signal, when the mode switching device is at the energy saving mode. |
| US08508155B2 |
System and method for calibrating backlight devices
A system and method for controlling the backlight of a liquid crystal display (LCD) to account for ambient light penetration through the LCD stack and into the backlight cavity. A first light sensing device may be placed to measure the ambient light while a second light sensing device may be placed within the backlight cavity to measure the backlight luminance. A desired display luminance (based on the ambient light) can be converted to a desired backlight luminance. A software driver or microprocessor may drive the LCD backlight to meet the desired backlight luminance. A calibration can be performed to create and store correction factors for the second light sensing device when high ambient light levels create disruptions in the data for the second light sensing device. The correction factors may be used to accurately control the backlight levels and may be based upon incoming data from the first light sensing device. |
| US08508154B2 |
Lighting devices
A lighting device is provided, having at least one light emitting diode module, a power factor correction circuit, a non-regulated isolation DC to DC converter and at least one regulated non-isolation DC to DC converter. The power factor correction circuit performs a power factor correction on an AC power source and outputs a corrected DC voltage. The non-regulated isolation DC to DC converter generates an output voltage in a predetermined voltage range according to the corrected DC voltage, wherein the non-regulated isolation DC to DC converter is an open-loop controlled buck DC to DC converter. The regulated non-isolation DC to DC converter generates a fixed current or a fixed voltage according to the output voltage output from the non-regulated isolation DC to DC converter, thereby driving the light emitting diode module. |
| US08508151B2 |
Power unit and lighting apparatus
When a voltage V detected by a voltage detecting section is lower than a first threshold value Vth1, an NPN transistor is turned on, a control terminal Ve is placed at a low level, and an overload protection circuit section halts the operation of a switching circuit section. When the voltage V detected by the voltage detecting section becomes higher than the first threshold value Vth1, the NPN transistor is turned off, the control terminal Ve is placed at a high level, and the overload protection circuit section resets the halt of the operation of the switching circuit section and makes the operation resumed. |
| US08508147B2 |
Dimmer circuit applicable for LED device and control method thereof
A dimmer circuit applicable for LED device and control method thereof is disclosed in the embodiments of the present invention. The dimmer circuit is applicable for controlling at least a LED device. The dimmer circuit includes a rectifier, a bleeder, a phase angle detect circuit, a constant current circuit and a programmable micro controller. The phase angle detect circuit couples to the programmable micro controller. The constant current circuit couples to the LED device The programmable micro controller generates a PWM signal according to the output signal of the phase angle detect circuit to adjust current of the constant current circuit. |
| US08508146B2 |
Electronic device, control circuit, and method for controlling light emitting element
An electronic device including a light emitting element. A capacitor is coupled to the light emitting element. A measurement circuit measures a change amount in charge of the capacitor. A control circuit controls a light emission amount of the light emitting element in accordance with a difference of the change amount in the charge and a reference value. |
| US08508145B2 |
DC/AC inverter
A fluorescent lamp device includes a frequency generator for generating a pulse signal, a driver circuit coupled to said frequency generator for generating at least one driving signal according to said pulse signal, a half bridge power switch unit coupled to the driver circuit, a resonant tank coupled to the half bridge power switch unit, and a fluorescent lamp coupled to the resonant tank. |
| US08508142B2 |
Portable lighting device and method thereof
A portable lighting device includes a controller, a power source that provides a voltage, and a load that includes a light emitting diode (LED) light source. The controller receives the voltage and regulates a current of the LED light source based on a sensing signal indicating the voltage of the power source. The controller regulates the current of the LED light source to a first current level if the voltage of the power source is greater than a first voltage level, and to a second current level if the voltage of the power source is less than a second voltage level. The second voltage level is less than the first voltage level. The controller regulates the current of the LED light source to vary according to the sensing signal if the voltage of the power source is between the first voltage level and the second voltage level. |
| US08508141B2 |
Light control apparatus for light emitting device and illumination system
A light control apparatus for a LED light-emitting device comprises a driving current supply unit supplying an AC current as a driving current via a pair of terminals to the LED light-emitting device including a set of LED elements having mutually different light emission wavelength regions connected in parallel while providing opposite polarities and the pair of terminals provided to supply the driving current to the set of LED elements; an individual amount defining unit defining a positive driving current amount and a negative driving current amount respectively to be supplied to the LED light-emitting device in a positive half cycle and a negative half cycle included in one cycle of the AC current respectively. |
| US08508140B2 |
LED switch circuitry for varying input voltage source
An LED array switching apparatus, comprises: a plurality of LED segments D1 to Dn connected in series, each LED segment having a forward voltage; a voltage supply coupled to the plurality of LED segments; and a plurality of constant current sources G1 to Gn, coupled to outputs of LED segments D1 to Dn, respectively. Each of the constant current sources is switchable between a current regulating state and an open state such that as the voltage of the voltage supply increases, LED segments are switched on and lit to form a higher forward voltage LED string, and as the voltage of the voltage supply decreases, segments are switched off and removed from the LED string starting with the most recently lit segment. |
| US08508138B2 |
Lighting system for dim ambience
A lighting system for dim ambience has at least one light source module, implemented in an ambience. The light source module has multiple light emitting units. Each unit is respectively controlled to produce a luminance. A luminance detecting unit detects a photonic luminance and a luminance ratio. A processing and operation module calculates a mesopic luminance according to the photonic luminance and the luminance ratio. When the photonic luminance is less than a dim-light setting value, a power control information is obtained by a fitness operation with a given condition set. The power control information is corresponding to an optimized mesopic luminance after fitness. A control unit receives the power control information to modulate the luminance of the light emitting units. |
| US08508130B2 |
Short arc type discharge lamp
A short arc type discharge lamp that includes a body member a light permeable member a pair of an anode and a cathode. The pair of the anode and cathode is arranged with a gap at a focal position of the reflective face. The cathode has a cathode tip portion that is approximately conic and a cathode rod portion. The anode has an anode tip portion that has a tapering portion and a flat tip end portion. Further, an outer diameter of the tip of the anode flat tip end portion is smaller than the outer diameter of the cathode rod portion, and an outer diameter of a back end of the anode tip portion is larger than that of the cathode rod portion. |
| US08508129B2 |
Plasma display panel including metal oxide crystal powder and method of manufacturing same
A plasma display panel equipped with a front substrate and a back substrate facing each other to form a discharge space. On the discharge space side of the front substrate there are disposed a metal oxide layer and magnesium oxide crystal particles. The magnesium oxide crystal particles are arranged to be protruding closer to the discharge space than the surface of the metal oxide layer. |
| US08508124B2 |
Organic light-emitting diode display
An organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display includes a substrate and a plurality of sub-pixels formed on the substrate, wherein the substrate includes a display region having formed therein sub-pixels to which colored organic materials are applied, and a non-display region formed at edges of the display region. The non-display region includes an outgassing portion and a cathode contacting portion, and protrusions and recessions having different numbers and unit opening areas are formed in at least one of the outgassing portion and the cathode contacting region. Thus, organic raw materials applied during manufacturing process may be prevented from remaining. Therefore, an increase in contact resistance due to organic raw materials remaining in a cathode contact region may be reduced. |
| US08508122B2 |
Organic electroluminescent device
The present invention relates to an organic electroluminescent device comprising a substrate (40) and on top of the substrate (40) a substrate electrode (20), a counter electrode (30) and an electroluminescent layer stack (50) with at least one organic electroluminescent layer arranged between the substrate electrode (20) and the counter electrode (30), an encapsulation means (90) encapsulating at least the electroluminescent layer stack (50) and at least one non-conductive spacer means (70) arranged on the substrate electrode (20) to mechanically support the encapsulation means (90) and to prevent an electrical short between the substrate electrode (20) and the counter electrode (30) during the mechanical support, wherein the spacer means (70) comprise at least one light scattering means (80) for redirecting at least a part of light (65) trapped in the substrate (40), to a method of manufacturing such an encapsulated electroluminescent device and to the use of an array, preferably a hexagonal array, of non-conductive spacer means. |
| US08508121B2 |
Organic light-emitting display apparatus
An organic light-emitting display apparatus for selectively realizing circular polarization according to external light conditions, including a substrate; an organic light-emitting device on the substrate; a sealing member on the organic light-emitting device; a phase retardation layer on a surface of the substrate, the organic light-emitting device, or the sealing member; and a linear polarization layer on another surface of the substrate, the organic light-emitting device, or the sealing member, wherein the linear polarization layer is located to be closer to a source of external light than the phase retardation layer, and wherein the linear polarization layer comprises a photochromic material. |
| US08508119B2 |
Phosphor and an incandescent lamp color light emitting diode lamp using the same
An incandescent lamp color light emitting diode lamp comprises a semiconductor blue light emitting diode chip having a center emission wavelength in a range of from 400 nm to 480 nm and a phosphor that absorbs light emitted from the diode chip to emit light having a different wavelength than the light emitted from the diode chip. The phosphor is represented by a general formula of Mp(Si, Al)12(O, N)16:Eu2+q. The main phase is an α-SiAlON phosphor having an α SiAlON structure, wherein M is at least one element of Ca, Y, Mg, Li, Sc, Pr, Nd, Pm, Sm, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, Lu, and Sr and p is from 0.75 to 1.0; and q is between 0.02 and 0.09. The diode lamp emits light having an emission color produced by a mixture of the light emitted from the semiconductor blue light emitting and the light emitted from the α-SiAlON. The chromaticity range thereof falls within the range defined by chromaticity coordinates (x, y) of (0.4775, 0.4283), (0.4594, 0.3971), (0.4348, 0.4185), and (0.4214, 0.3887) on the XYZ chromaticity diagram. |
| US08508114B2 |
Light emitting diode
A light emitting diode includes a casing, a frame in the casing, one or a plurality of light emitting chip, and a packaging polymer; the frame being provided 5 with a placement area to receive placement of the light emitting chip, and an electrode area separated from the placement area; a sectional fall being disposed at where appropriately on the placement area to increase contact area between the frame and the casing and improve the relative stability between the casing and the frame. |
| US08508113B2 |
Hybrid compact fluorescent lamp fixing method
The invention is directed to a lamp assembly, and particularly to a method of fixing a first light source and a second light source in a single lamp assembly. More specifically, the invention provides a lamp assembly and a mechanism for fixing at least two light sources therein, at least one of which is a compact fluorescent light source, an incandescent light source, or a halogen light source, and where the fixing mechanism used involves soldering the lead-in wires of the second light source to a printed circuit board of the lamp assembly, which is in operative connection with the lamp ballast. |
| US08508108B2 |
Polymer metal composite membranes
Systems and methods of harvesting and converting naturally occurring energy are described that include exposing a material to an ambient condition and harvesting at least a portion of energy that is created. Energy harvesting from fluidic and flow environments or vibration can be accomplished using types of energy harvesters, such as flexible polymers. Active materials or Electro-Active Polymer (EAP)-metal composite thin films like Ionic Polymers, Piezoceramic materials, and electromagnetic systems may be used as mechanical to electrical energy transducers. One type of an ionic EAP is ionic polymer-metal composite (IPMC), which includes a base polymer membrane that may be coated with a metal to act as a surface electrode. The surface electrode may be silver (Ag) nanoparticles. The silver nanoparticle functionalized IPMC can be used to convert mechanical vibrations and fluidic flow to electrical energy to power wireless devices and microelectronic systems, for example. |
| US08508105B2 |
Inertial sensor
Disclosed herein is an inertial sensor of the present invention. An inertial sensor 100 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention includes a plate-shaped membrane 110, a mass body 120 disposed under a central portion 113 of the membrane 110, a post 130 disposed under an edge 115 of the membrane 110 and surrounding the mass body 120, a piezoelectric material 140 formed above the membrane 110 and provided with a cavity 141 in a thickness direction, a sensing electrode 150 disposed in the cavity 141 and a driving electrode 160 disposed outside the cavity 141, whereby the thickness of the piezoelectric material 140 of the portion on which the sensing electrode 150 is disposed is formed to be thin, such that the sensitivity of the inertial sensor 100 can be improved. |
| US08508104B2 |
Piezoelectric actuator driver circuit
In a piezoelectric actuator driver circuit, a resistor provided to detect current is inserted in a current path for a piezoelectric actuator. A signal of a decreased voltage of the resistor is subjected to positive feedback to an amplifier circuit via a band-pass filter. An output signal of the amplifier circuit is subjected to negative feedback to the amplifier circuit via a band-elimination filter. The band-pass filter allows a signal of a fundamental resonant frequency of a piezoelectric device, which includes the piezoelectric actuator, to pass therethrough, and the band-elimination filter blocks the signal of the fundamental resonant frequency. Thus, a loop gain at a higher-order resonant frequency with respect to the fundamental resonant frequency becomes very low and a higher-order resonant mode can be effectively suppressed. |
| US08508103B2 |
Piezoelectric identification device and applications thereof
Provided is a transducer having first and second surfaces including first electrode lines positioned along the first surface in a first direction and configured for grounding and second electrode lines positioned along the second surface in a direction orthogonal to the first direction. The second electrode lines are configured switching between receiving and transmitting in an interlaced manner. |
| US08508099B2 |
Package manufacturing method, package, piezoelectric vibrator, oscillator, electronic device and radio timepiece
A package and method for manufacturing the package using a rivet having a head portion and a core portion protruding from a rear surface of the head portion. The package includes a plurality of substrates bonded to each other and a cavity that houses an object in a sealed state. The core portion is disposed in a through hole in a base substrate and electrically connects the object with the outside. The core portion is inserted into the through hole and a glass frit is formed between the through hole and the core portion and seals the rivet in the through hole. A gas relief passage is formed leading from a base end of the core portion to a surface of the head portion. |
| US08508095B2 |
Flux-switching machine
A flux-switching machine stator comprising two or more C-cores, each C-core having two legs and a back portion joining the legs, and a permanent magnet arranged between legs of adjacent C-cores. Each leg has a main portion and a tip portion further from the back portion characterized in that the tip portion of each leg is angled relative to the main portion of the respective leg. |
| US08508088B2 |
Wiring component for motor coil
A wiring component for a motor coil includes: a wire coil configured by a plurality of wire segments arranged in a circumferential direction so as to form a ring shape, each of the wire segments including an arc-shaped main-body portion made of a conductive wire rod bent in an arc shape, protruding portions formed at both end portions of the main-body portion and upright portions respectively formed at end portions of the protruding portions; an inner clip formed with a plurality of first holding portions at an outer circumferential surface of the inner clip; and an outer clip formed with a plurality of second holding portions at an inner circumferential surface of the outer clip. The inner clip and the outer clip are connected to each other so as to hold the wire coil between the first holding portions and the second holding portions. |
| US08508081B2 |
Live conductor stringing and splicing method and apparatus
A method and apparatus for handling and/or stringing energized conductor for a high voltage power line conductor for a high voltage power line is provided. The method includes bringing components and workers to the same electrical potential and transferring power from one contractor to another. Associated apparatus is also described. |
| US08508077B2 |
Controlling inductive power transfer systems
An inductive power transfer system comprises a primary unit operable to generate an electromagnetic field and at least one secondary device, separable from the primary unit, and adapted to couple with the field when the secondary device is in proximity to the primary unit so that power can be received inductively by the secondary device from the primary unit without direct electrical conductive contacts therebetween. The system detects if there is a substantial difference between, on the one hand, a power drawn from the primary unit, and on the other hand, a power required by the secondary device or, if there is more than one secondary device, a combined power required by the secondary devices. Following such detection, the system restricts or stops the inductive power supply from the primary unit. Such a system can detect the presence of unwanted parasitic loads in the vicinity of the primary unit reliably. |
| US08508076B2 |
Wireless power transmission unit and power generator and power generation system with the wireless power unit
A wireless power transmission unit includes an oscillator for converting DC energy into RF energy having a frequency f0 and a first antenna for transmitting the RF energy. The first antenna includes a first inductor and a first capacitor that are connected together in series to form a series resonant circuit with a resonant frequency fT. The unit further includes a second antenna for receiving, by resonant magnetic coupling, at least a part of the RF energy that has been transmitted by the first antenna. The second antenna includes a second inductor and a second capacitor that are connected in parallel with each other to form a parallel resonant circuit with a resonant frequency fR. The resonant frequencies fT and fR are set to be substantially equal to the frequency f0 of the RF energy, the oscillator has a voltage step-up ratio Voc, the first inductor has an inductance L1, the second inductor has an inductance L2, the second inductor is coupled with the first inductor by a resonant magnetic field at a coupling coefficient k which is set to be less than 0.5, and the power transmission unit satisfies (L2/L1)≧4(k/Voc)2. |
| US08508075B2 |
Electronic device and electronic system
A vehicle-mounted device that is capable of attaching and detaching a portable device including a rechargeable battery, and supplies an electric power to the portable device in a attachment state where the portable device is attached, the electronic device characterized by comprising: a controller that confirms completion of the operation of the portable device when a power source of the electronic device is turned off in the attachment state; and a voltage converting device that stops supplying the electric power to the portable device after the confirmation by the controller. |
| US08508074B2 |
System and method for optimizing solar power conversion
A solar power system is provided for maximizing solar power conversion. The solar power system includes n power units connected in series and n-1 DC-DC converting units, and each of the n-1 DC-DC converting units is coupled to at least one of n solar power units. Each of the n-1 DC-DC converting units is configured to control the correspondingly connected solar power units to operate at a target current generation. The solar power system further includes a controlling unit coupled to the n-1 DC-DC converting units. The controlling unit monitors and compares the n currents generated by the n solar power units. Based on the current comparison, the controlling unit determines a series current and controls the n solar power units so that each of the generated photovoltaic currents is substantially equal to the determined series current. |
| US08508072B2 |
Standby wake-up circuit for electronic device
A standby wake-up circuit is configured for determining whether to wake an electronic device which is powered by a power-supplying module. The power-supply module is able to supply a standby power to the electronic device when the electronic device is in standby, and supply a main power to the electronic device when the electronic device is wakened. The standby wake-up circuit comprises an input-signal detecting circuit and a processing module. The input-signal detecting circuit comprises a power-key detecting module, an input-signal detecting module, a multiplexer and a power controller. The power-key detecting module and the input-signal detecting module are configured for detecting whether a signal is inputted. When inputting the signal, the power controller sends out a waken signal for supplying the main power to the electronic device. |
| US08508070B2 |
System, device and method for regulating volt-ampere reactance in a power distribution system
A system, method and product for modifying the volt-ampere reactive (VARs) in a power distribution system is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes determining the VARs at a location on the power distribution system and based on the determined VARs, determining whether to modify the VARs. If it is determined to modify the VARs the method includes identifying a plurality a capacitor banks connected to a power line and from the identified plurality of capacitor banks, generating a list of eligible capacitor banks that satisfy inclusion criteria. If the list of eligible capacitor banks includes at least one capacitor bank the method includes selecting a capacitor bank from the list of eligible capacitor banks and transmitting a switching command for the selected capacitor bank. Generating the list of eligible capacitor banks may include one or more of ensuring the voltage at each capacitor bank is not beyond a threshold, ensuring the total harmonic distortion at each capacitor bank is not beyond a threshold, ensuring the capacitor bank has not been switched within a recent predetermined time period, ensuring the capacitor bank has not been switched more than a predetermined number of times within a recent time period, ensuring that communications with each capacitor bank are viable, and other criteria. |
| US08508067B2 |
Motor drive system for hybrid vehicle and method for controlling the same in the event of failure
The present invention provides a motor drive system for a hybrid vehicle and a method for controlling the same in the event of a failure in a voltage converter, in which high voltage stored in a DC-link capacitor is discharged to a 12V electrical load through a DC-DC converter, of which the output voltage is increased. |
| US08508063B2 |
Direct drive rotary wave energy conversion
An apparatus and method for converting wave energy using the relative rotational movement between two interconnected float assemblies and the relative rotational movement between each of the float assemblies and a spar which extends from a connection with the float assemblies at the water surface into the water. |
| US08508062B2 |
Turbomachinery electric generator arrangement
A turbomachinery electric generator arrangement includes a rotary compressor, a generator having a rotary armature and a stator, a combustion chamber to which compressed gas is directed from the compressor, a rotary turbine to which combustion product is directed from the combustion chamber and a bearing arrangement supporting in rotation the rotary compressor, rotary armature and rotary turbine. Compressed gas for cooling components of the arrangement is directed from the rotary compressor, typically being tapped off from a subsidiary gas output upstream of a primary gas outlet. Bearing thermal shielding and modular construction of components are also features of the arrangement. |
| US08508056B2 |
Heat releasing semiconductor package, method for manufacturing the same, and display apparatus including the same
A heat releasing semiconductor package, a method for manufacturing the same, and a display apparatus including the same. The heat releasing semiconductor package includes a film, an electrode pattern formed over the film, a semiconductor device mounted over the electrode pattern, and a first heat releasing layer formed over the semiconductor device including the electrode pattern, the first heat releasing layer including a first adhesive and a first heat releasing material. |
| US08508050B2 |
Wiring substrate, semiconductor device, and method for manufacturing wiring substrate
A wiring substrate includes a wiring pattern in an uppermost layer that includes pads. A solder resist layer covers the wiring pattern. A recess exposes part of the wiring pattern from the solder resist layer to form pads. The solder resist layer includes a portion formed in a region corresponding to the recess, a portion formed outward from the recess, and a portion formed inward from the recess. The upper surface of the solder resist layer at the portion corresponding to the recess is higher than the upper surface of the pads but lower than the upper surfaces of the other portions of the solder resist layer. |
| US08508043B2 |
Metal pad structure for thickness enhancement of polymer used in electrical interconnection of semiconductor die to semiconductor chip package substrate with solder bump
A topographical feature is formed proximate to a conductive bond pad that is used to couple a solder bump to a semiconductor die. The topographical feature is separated from the conductive bond pad by a gap. In one embodiment, the topographical feature is formed at a location that is slightly beyond the perimeter of the solder bump, wherein an edge of the bump is aligned vertically to coincide with the gap separating the conductive bond pad from the topographical feature. The topographical feature provides thickness enhancement of a non-conductive layer disposed over the semiconductor die and the conductive bond pad and stress buffering. |
| US08508039B1 |
Wafer scale chip scale packaging of vertically integrated MEMS sensors with electronics
In a method and system in accordance with the present invention, solder balls are added on top of vertically integrated MEMS with CMOS by using wafer scale fabrication compatible with existing chip scale packaging capabilities. In the present invention, both the MEMS and the CMOS dies are fabricated in equal dimensions. On the MEMS level, silicon islands are defined by DRIE etching to be bonded on top of CMOS pads. These conducting silicon islands later provide electrical connections between the CMOS pads and the conducting traces that lead to solder balls on top. |
| US08508037B2 |
Bumpless build-up layer and laminated core hybrid structures and methods of assembling same
A structure includes a hybrid substrate for supporting a semiconductive device that includes a bumpless build-up layer in which the semiconductive device is embedded and a laminated-core structure. The bumpless build-up layer and the laminated-core structure are rendered an integral apparatus by a reinforcement plating that connects to a plated through hole in the laminated-core structure and to a subsequent bond pad of the bumpless build-up layer structure. |
| US08508034B2 |
Electronic devices
Various embodiments for molding tools for moisture-resistant image sensor packaging structures and methods of assembly are disclosed. Image sensor packages of the present invention include an interposer, a housing structure formed on the interposer for surrounding an image sensor chip, and a transparent cover. The housing structure may cover substantially all of the interposer chip surface. In another embodiment, the housing structure also covers substantially all of the interposer edge surfaces. The housing structure may also cover substantially all of the interposer attachment surface. An image sensor chip is electrically connected to the interposer with sealed wire bond connections or with sealed flip-chip connections. The housing structure may include runners that enable simultaneous sealing of the interior of the image sensor package and of the transparent cover. |
| US08508033B2 |
Semiconductor device
The semiconductor device according to the present invention includes a semiconductor layer, an interlayer dielectric film formed on the semiconductor layer, a wire formed on the interlayer dielectric film with a metallic material to have a width of not more than 0.4 μm, and a broad portion integrally formed on the wire to extend from the wire in the width direction thereof. |
| US08508032B2 |
Chip packaging
An electronic device package comprising: a block of insulating material; an electronic device housed within the insulating material and having a set of contact pads thereon; and a set of electrically conductive contact members at least partially housed within the insulating material, each contact member extending between a respective external contact point at which it is exposed at the surface of the block and an internal contact point from which it is electrically coupled to a respective contact pad on the electronic device, each internal contact point being outside the footprint of the electronic device, the set of contact members including: at least one contact member of a first type whose external contact point is located at least partially within the footprint of the electronic device; and at least one contact member of a second type that is wholly outside the footprint of the device. |
| US08508031B2 |
Electronic device and method of producing the same
An electronic device includes a wiring board; a semiconductor device arranged at an upper side of the wiring board with an electrically conductive member being arranged therebetween; a covering member arranged at an upper side of the semiconductor device; and a supporting member arranged at a lower side of the wiring board, the supporting member having a convex portion facing the wiring board, the supporting member being connected to the covering member and supporting the wiring board at the convex portion. |
| US08508029B2 |
Semiconductor package including an integrated waveguide
Methods and apparatus are disclosed for wirelessly communicating among integrated circuits and/or functional modules within the integrated circuits. A semiconductor device fabrication operation uses a predetermined sequence of photographic and/or chemical processing steps to form one or more functional modules onto a semiconductor substrate. The functional modules are coupled to an integrated waveguide that is formed onto the semiconductor substrate and/or attached thereto to form an integrated circuit. The functional modules communicate with each other as well as to other integrated circuits using a multiple access transmission scheme via the integrated waveguide. One or more integrated circuits may be coupled to an integrated circuit carrier to form Multichip Module. The Multichip Module may be coupled to a semiconductor package to form a packaged integrated circuit. |
| US08508028B2 |
Chip package and method for forming the same
According to an embodiment, a chip package is provided, which includes: a substrate having a first surface and a second surface; a device region formed in the substrate; a passivation layer formed overlying the first surface of the substrate; at least a polymer planarization layer formed overlying the passivation layer; a package substrate disposed overlying the first surface of the substrate; and a spacer layer disposed between the package substrate and the passivation layer, wherein the spacer layer and the package substrate surround a cavity overlying the substrate, wherein the polymer planar layer does not extends to an outer edge of the spacer layer. |
| US08508022B2 |
Ultra thin package for electric acoustic sensor chip of micro electro mechanical system
An ultra thin package for an electric acoustic sensor chip of a micro electro mechanical system is provided. A substrate has a first substrate surface and a second substrate surface opposite to the first substrate surface. At least one conductor bump is formed on the second substrate surface. An electric acoustic sensor chip having a first chip surface and a second chip surface opposite to the first chip surface is provided. The first chip surface is electrically connected to the conductor bump. The conductor bump is positioned between the second substrate surface and the first chip surface to create a space. The conductor bump is used for transferring a signal from the sensor chip to the substrate. An acoustic opening passing through the substrate is formed. |
| US08508020B2 |
Method for manufacturing semiconductor device
A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device includes at least forming a lower electrode comprising titanium nitride on a semiconductor substrate, forming a dielectric film comprising zirconium oxide as a primary constituent on the lower electrode, forming a first protective film comprising a titanium compound on the dielectric film, and forming an upper electrode comprising titanium nitride on the first protective film. The method can include a step of forming a second protective film on the lower electrode before the step of forming the dielectric film on the lower electrode. |
| US08508017B2 |
Test device and semiconductor integrated circuit device
Test devices and integrated circuits with improved productivity are provided. In accordance with example embodiments, a test device may include a first test region with a first test element and a second test region with a second test element defined on a semiconductor substrate. The first test element may include a pair of first secondary test regions in the semiconductor substrate and a pair of first test gate lines. One of the first test gate lines may overlap one of the first secondary test regions and the other first test gate line may overlap the other first secondary test region. The second test element may include structures corresponding to the first test element except the second test element does not include structures corresponding to the pair of first secondary test regions and the pair of first test gate lines. |
| US08508016B2 |
Bipolar punch-through semiconductor device and method for manufacturing such a semiconductor device
A bipolar punch-through semiconductor device has a semiconductor substrate, which includes at least a two-layer structure, a first main side with a first electrical contact, and a second main side with a second electrical contact. One of the layers in the two-layer structure is a base layer of the first conductivity type. A buffer layer of the first conductivity type is arranged on the base layer. A first layer includes alternating first regions of the first conductivity type and second regions of the second conductivity type. The first layer is arranged between the buffer layer and the second electrical contact. The second regions are activated regions with a depth of at maximum 2 μm and a doping profile, which drops from 90% to 10% of the maximum doping concentration within at most 1 μm. |
| US08508011B2 |
Semiconductor apparatus and method of manufacturing the same
A semiconductor apparatus including a substrate, a pixel array on the substrate, first and second conductive pads between which the substrate locates is provided. The apparatus also comprises an insulating layer arranged between the substrate and the first conductive pad; a third conductive pad arranged between the substrate and the insulating layer; a first conductive member which passes through the insulating layer and connects the first and third conductive pads to each other; and a second conductive member which passes through the substrate and connects the second and third conductive pads to each other. The pixel array further comprises a conductive line connected to circuit elements included in pixels aligned in a row or column direction. The first conductive pad is connected to the conductive line in an interval between the pixels. |
| US08508008B2 |
Optical signal transfer in a semiconductor device by using monolithic opto-electronic components
In a semiconductor device, optical signal transfer capabilities are implemented on the basis of silicon-based monolithic opto-electronic components in combination with an appropriate waveguide. Thus, in complex circuitries, such as microprocessors and the like, superior performance may be obtained in terms of signal propagation delay, while at the same time thermal requirements may be less critical. |
| US08508001B2 |
Semiconductor device with work function adjusting layer having varied thickness in a gate width direction and methods of making same
Disclosed herein is a semiconductor device that includes a semiconducting substrate and a work-function adjusting layer positioned at least partially in the semiconducting substrate, the work-function adjusting layer having a middle section, opposing ends and an end region located proximate each of said opposing ends and a gate electrode positioned above the work-function adjusting layer. Each of the end regions has a maximum thickness that is at least 25% greater than an average thickness of the middle section of the work-function adjusting layer. |
| US08507997B2 |
Mask read-only memory having a fake select transistor
A mask read-only memory (ROM) includes parallel doping lines of a second conductivity type formed in a substrate of a first conductivity type, a first insulation film formed on the doping lines and the substrate, conductive pads fainted on the first insulation film, a second insulation film formed on the first insulation film and the conductive pads, parallel wires formed on the second insulation film extending perpendicular to the doping lines, contact plugs formed in the first insulation film that connect the doping lines to the conductive pads, and vias formed in the second insulation film that connect the conductive pads to the wires, wherein crossings of the doping lines and the wires define memory cells, contact plugs and vias are formed in memory cells of a first type, and at least one of the contact plug and via are missing from memory cells of a second type. |
| US08507996B2 |
Block contact plugs for MOS devices
An integrated circuit structure includes a semiconductor substrate; a gate stack overlying the semiconductor substrate; a gate spacer on a sidewall of the gate stack; a first contact plug having an inner edge contacting a sidewall of the gate spacer, and a top surface level with a top surface of the gate stack; and a second contact plug over and contacting the first contact plug. The second contact plug has a cross-sectional area smaller than a cross-sectional area of the first contact plug. |
| US08507992B2 |
High-K metal gate CMOS
A method of forming a semiconductor device is provided that includes forming a Ge-containing layer atop a p-type device regions of the substrate. Thereafter, a first dielectric layer is formed in a second portion of a substrate, and a second dielectric layer is formed overlying the first dielectric layer in the second portion of the substrate and overlying a first portion of the substrate. Gate structures may then formed atop the p-type device regions and n-type device regions of the substrate, in which the gate structures to the n-type device regions include a rare earth metal. |
| US08507991B2 |
Semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the same
A semiconductor device is provided. A multi-component high-k interface layer containing elements of the substrate is formed from an ultra-thin high-k dielectric material in a single-layer structure of atoms by rapid annealing in the manufacturing of a CMOS transistor by the replacement gate process, and a high-k gate dielectric layer with a higher dielectric constant and a metal gate layer are formed thereon. The EOT of the device is effectively decreased, and the diffusion of atoms in the high-k gate dielectric layer from an upper level thereof is effectively prevented by the optimized high-k interface layer at high-temperature treatment. |
| US08507989B2 |
Extremely thin semiconductor-on-insulator (ETSOI) FET with a back gate and reduced parasitic capacitance
An extremely thin SOI MOSFET device on an SOI substrate is provided with a back gate layer on a Si substrate superimposed by a thin BOX layer; an extremely thin SOI layer (ETSOI) on top of the thin BOX layer; and an FET device on the ETSOI layer having a gate stack insulated by spacers. The thin BOX is formed under the ETSOI channel, and is provided with a thicker dielectric under source and drain to reduce the source/drain to back gate parasitic capacitance. The thicker dielectric portion is self-aligned with the gate. A void within the thicker dielectric portion is formed under the source/drain region. The back gate is determined by a region of semiconductor damaged by implantation, and the formation of an insulating layer by lateral etch and back filling with dielectric. |
| US08507988B2 |
High voltage devices, systems, and methods for forming the high voltage devices
A high voltage (HV) device includes a gate dielectric structure over a substrate. The gate dielectric structure has a first portion and a second portion. The first portion has a first thickness and is over a first well region of a first dopant type in the substrate. The second portion has a second thickness and is over a second well region of a second dopant type. The first thickness is larger than the second thickness. A gate electrode is disposed over the gate dielectric structure. A metallic layer is over and coupled with the gate electrode. The metallic layer extends along a direction of a channel under the gate dielectric structure. At least one source/drain (S/D) region is disposed within the first well region of the first dopant type. |
| US08507986B2 |
Silicon-carbide MOSFET cell structure and method for forming same
In one embodiment, the invention comprises a MOSFET comprising individual MOSFET cells. Each cell comprises a U-shaped well (P type) and two parallel sources (N type) formed within the well. A Number of source rungs (doped N) connect sources at multiple locations. Regions between two rungs comprise a body (P type). These features are formed on an N-type epitaxial layer, which is formed on an N-type substrate. A contact extends across and contacts a number of source rungs and bodies. Gate oxide and a gate contact overlie a leg of a first well and a leg of a second adjacent well, inverting the conductivity responsive to a gate voltage. A MOSFET comprises a plurality of these cells to attain a desired low channel resistance. The cell regions are formed using self-alignment techniques at several states of the fabrication process. |
| US08507979B1 |
Semiconductor integrated circuit with metal gate
A method of fabricating a semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) is disclosed. The method includes providing a semiconductor substrate and forming a gate trench therein. The method also includes filling in the gate trench partially with a work-function (WF) metal stack, and filling in the remaining gate trench with a dummy-filling-material (DFM) over the WF metal stack. A sub-gate trench is formed by etching-back the WF metal stack in the gate trench, and is filled with an insulator cap to form an isolation region in the gate trench. The DFM is fully removed to from a MG-center trench (MGCT) in the gate trench, which is filled with a fill metal. |
| US08507977B2 |
Semiconductor device and manufacturing method of the same
Disclosed herein is a semiconductor device including: a first conductivity type semiconductor base body; a first conductivity type pillar region; second conductivity type pillar regions; element and termination regions provided in the first and second conductivity type pillar regions, transistors being formed in the element region, and no transistors being formed in the termination region; body regions; a gate insulating film; gate electrodes; source regions; and body potential extraction regions, wherein voids are formed in the second conductivity type pillar regions of the termination region. |
| US08507975B2 |
Semiconductor integrated circuit device and a method of manufacturing the same
A semiconductor device having plural memory cell regions featuring nonvolatile memory cells, each nonvolatile memory cell including a first insulating film formed over a semiconductor substrate, a control electrode formed over the first insulating film, the first insulating film acting as a gate insulator for the control gate electrode, a second insulating film formed over the semiconductor substrate, and a memory gate electrode formed over the second insulating film and arranged adjacent with the control gate electrode through the second gate insulating film, the second insulating film acting as a gate insulator for the memory gate electrode and featuring a non-conductive charge trap film, wherein each of the nonvolatile memory cells of a first memory cell region and each of the nonvolatile memory cells of a second memory cell region are formed adjacent to one another such that a drain region is shared between them. |
| US08507965B2 |
Semiconductor device and manufacturing method thereof
An insulation film (24) having a gradual inclination of a surface is formed by a high density plasma CVD method, an atmospheric pressure CVD method or the like, after a ferroelectric capacitor (23) is formed. Thereafter, an alumina film (25) is formed on the insulation film (24). According to the method, low coverage of the alumina film (25) does not become a problem, and the ferroelectric capacitor (23) is reliably protected. |
| US08507964B2 |
Image sensor having waveguides formed in color filters
An image sensor having an array of pixels disposed in a substrate. The array of pixels includes photosensitive elements, a color filters, and waveguide walls. The waveguide walls are disposed in the color filters and surround portions of the color filters to form waveguides through the color filters. In some embodiments, metal walls may be coupled to the waveguide walls. |
| US08507963B2 |
Photoelectric conversion device and its manufacturing method
A photoelectric conversion device in accordance with an aspect of the present invention includes a thin-film transistor formed on a substrate, and a photo diode electrically connected to the thin-film transistor, wherein the photo diode includes a lower electrode connected to a drain electrode of the thin-film transistor, a photoelectric conversion layer formed on the lower electrode, an upper electrode formed from a transparent conductive film on the photoelectric conversion layer, the upper electrode being formed so as to be contained within an upper surface of the photoelectric conversion layer as viewed from a top, and a protective film (compound layer or the like) formed so as to protect a part of an upper surface of the photoelectric conversion layer located outside the upper electrode. |
| US08507962B2 |
Isolation structures for global shutter imager pixel, methods of manufacture and design structures
Pixel sensor cells, e.g., CMOS optical imagers, methods of manufacturing and design structures are provided with isolation structures that prevent carrier drift to diffusion regions. The pixel sensor cell includes a photosensitive region and a gate adjacent to the photosensitive region. The pixel sensor cell further includes a diffusion region adjacent to the gate. The pixel sensor cell further includes an isolation region located below a channel region of the gate and about the photosensitive region, which prevents electrons collected in the photosensitive region to drift to the diffusion region. |
| US08507957B2 |
Integrated circuit layouts with power rails under bottom metal layer
A circuit includes a semiconductor substrate; a bottom metal layer over the semiconductor substrate, wherein no additional metal layer is between the semiconductor substrate and the bottom metal layer; and a cell including a plug-level power rail under the bottom metal layer. |
| US08507956B2 |
Wire structure, method for fabricating wire, thin film transistor substrate, and method for fabricating the thin film transistor substrate
Provided are a wire structure, a method for fabricating a wire, a thin film transistor (TFT) substrate and a method for fabricating a TFT substrate. The wire structure includes a barrier layer formed on a substrate and including a copper layer and a copper solid solution layer. |
| US08507954B2 |
Integrated CMOS porous sensor having sensor electrodes formed with the interconnect conductors of a MOS circuit
A single chip wireless sensor comprises a microcontroller connected by a transmit/receive interface to a wireless antenna. The microcontroller is also connected to an 8 kB RAM, a USB interface, an RS232 interface, 64 kB flash memory, and a 32 kHz crystal. The device senses humidity and temperature, and a humidity sensor is connected by an 18 bit ΣΔ A-to-D converter to the microcontroller and a temperature sensor is connected by a 12 bit SAR A-to-D converter to the microcontroller. The device is an integrated chip manufactured in a single process in which both the electronics and sensor components are manufactured using standard CMOS processing techniques, applied to achieve both electronic and sensing components in an integrated process. |
| US08507946B2 |
Electrostatic discharge protection device
An electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection device including a substrate, a first doped region, a second doped region, and a third doped region, a gate and a plurality of contacts is disclosed. The substrate includes a first conductive type. The first doped region is formed in the substrate and includes a second conductive type. The second doped region is formed in the substrate and includes the second conductive type. The third doped region is formed in the substrate, includes the first conductive type and is located between the first and the second doped regions. The gate is formed on the substrate, located between the first and the second doped regions and comprises a first through hole. The contacts pass through the first through hole to contact with the third doped region. |
| US08507945B2 |
Semiconductor device including an insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT)
A semiconductor device includes a semiconductor substrate and a MOS transistor. The semiconductor substrate has the first main surface and the second main surface facing each other. The MOS transistor includes a gate electrode (5a) formed on the first main surface side, an emitter electrode (11) formed on the first main surface side, and a collector electrode (12) formed in contact with the second main surface. An element generates an electric field in a channel by a voltage applied to the gate electrode (5a), and controls the current between the emitter electrode (11) and the collector electrode (12) by the electric field in the channel. The spike density in the interface between the semiconductor substrate and the collector electrode (12) is not less than 0 and not more than 3×108 unit/cm2. Consequently, a semiconductor device suitable for parallel operation is provided. |
| US08507944B2 |
Light emitting device, method of fabricating the same and light emitting device package
Disclosed herein is a light emitting device including a first nitride semiconductor and a second nitride semiconductor, each of which includes a first conductivity-type semiconductor layer, an active layer and a second conductivity-type semiconductor layer, and a connection layer formed between the second conductivity-type semiconductor layer of the second nitride semiconductor and the first conductivity-type semiconductor layer of the first nitride semiconductor, wherein the first nitride semiconductor and the second nitride semiconductor are connected by the connection layer, and the light emitting device further comprises electrodes formed on at least a part of the second conductivity-type semiconductor layer of the first nitride semiconductor, at least a part of the first conductivity-type semiconductor layer of the second nitride semiconductor, and at least a part of the second conductivity-type semiconductor layer of the second nitride semiconductor. The light emitting device may be driven and emit light using AC power. |
| US08507943B2 |
Semiconductor light-emitting element
A semiconductor light-emitting element with a counter electrode structure can include a first electrode including at least one linear first electrode piece that is disposed on a surface of a first semiconductor layer close to the support substrate and in ohmic contact with the first semiconductor layer, a second electrode including at least one linear second electrode piece that is disposed on a surface of a second semiconductor layer and in ohmic contact with the second semiconductor layer. A plurality of conical projections can be formed on the second semiconductor layer. The first electrode piece and the second electrode piece can be disposed soas not to overlap with each other in a stacked direction of the semiconductor light-emitting stacked body but to be parallel with each other when viewed from above. |
| US08507935B2 |
Light emitting element and light emitting device
A light emitting element and a light emitting device for which light extraction efficiency is enhanced are provided.A light emitting element 10 includes a substrate 1 having light transmittance, a semiconductor layer 2 in which an n-type layer 2a, an active layer 2b, and a p-type layer 2c are stacked, a reflective electrode 3 stacked on the semiconductor layer 2 and configured to reflect light emitted from the active layer 2b, toward the substrate 1, a p-side pad electrode 4 stacked on the reflective electrode 3, an insulating film 6 covering a side surface of the semiconductor layer 2 and having light transmittance, a reflective film 7 stacked on the insulating film 6 and having light reflectivity, and an n-side electrode 5 provided on the substrate 1. |
| US08507931B2 |
Light emitting apparatus, method of manufacturing the same, and lighting system
Disclosed are a light emitting apparatus, a method of manufacturing the same, and a lighting system. The light emitting apparatus includes a body, a light emitting device on the body, a conductive member electrically connected with the light emitting device on the body, a resin member surrounding the light emitting device, and an inorganic oxide layer having a refractive index less than a refractive index of the resin member on the resin member. |
| US08507929B2 |
Semiconductor light emitting device including graded region
One or more regions of graded composition are included in a III-P light emitting device, to reduce the Vf associated with interfaces in the device. In accordance with embodiments of the invention, a semiconductor structure comprises a III-P light emitting layer disposed between an n-type region and a p-type region. A graded region is disposed between the p-type region and a GaP window layer. The aluminum composition is graded in the graded region. The graded region may have a thickness of at least 150 nm. In some embodiments, in addition to or instead of a graded region between the p-type region and the GaP window layer, the aluminum composition is graded in a graded region disposed between an etch stop layer and the n-type region. |
| US08507926B2 |
Light emitting diode package
A light emitting diode package includes a substrate, a plurality of light emitting diode chips, a fluorescence layer, and a plurality of reflecting layers. The light emitting diode chips, the fluorescence layer, and the reflecting layers are disposed on the substrate. The fluorescence layer covers the light emitting diode chips, and the reflecting layers are disposed right above the light emitting diode chips, respectively. |
| US08507922B2 |
Silicon carbide substrate, semiconductor device, and SOI wafer
Disclosed is a silicon carbide substrate which has less high frequency loss and excellent heat dissipating characteristics. The silicon carbide substrate (S) is provided with a first silicon carbide layer (1), which is composed of a polycrystalline silicon carbide, and a second silicon carbide layer (2), which is composed of polycrystalline silicon carbide formed on the surface of the first silicon carbide layer. The second silicon carbide layer (2) has a high-frequency loss smaller than that of the first silicon carbide layer (1), the first silicon carbide layer (1) has a thermal conductivity higher than that of the second silicon carbide layer (2), and on the surface side of the second silicon carbide layer (2), the high-frequency loss at a frequency of 20 GHz is 2 dB/mm or less, and the thermal conductivity is 200 W/mK or more. |
| US08507921B2 |
Single crystal compound semiconductor substrate
A compound semiconductor substrate includes a first substrate and a second substrate made of single crystal silicon carbide. In each of the first substrate and the second substrate, one surface is a (000-1) C-face and an opposite surface is a (0001) Si-face. The first substrate and the second substrate are bonded to each other in a state where the (0001) Si-face of the first substrate and the (0001) Si-face of the second substrate face each other, and the (000-1) C-face of the first substrate and the (000-1) C-face of the second substrate are exposed. |
| US08507918B2 |
Multilayer semiconductor devices with channel patterns having a graded grain structure
Memory devices include a stack of interleaved conductive patterns and insulating patterns disposed on a substrate. A semiconductor pattern passes through the stack of conductive patterns and insulating patterns to contact the substrate, the semiconductor pattern having a graded grain size distribution wherein a mean grain size in a first portion of the semiconductor pattern proximate the substrate is less than a mean grain size in a second portion of the semiconductor pattern further removed from the substrate. The graded grain size distribution may be achieved, for example, by partial laser annealing. |
| US08507915B2 |
Low resistance embedded strap for a trench capacitor
A trench is formed in a semiconductor substrate, and is filled with a node dielectric layer and at least one conductive material fill portion that functions as an inner electrode. The at least one conductive material fill portion includes a doped polycrystalline semiconductor fill portion. A gate stack for an access transistor is formed on the semiconductor substrate, and a gate spacer is formed around the gate stack. A source/drain trench is formed between an outer sidewall of the gate spacer and a sidewall of the doped polycrystalline semiconductor fill portion. An epitaxial source region and a polycrystalline semiconductor material portion are simultaneously formed by a selective epitaxy process such that the epitaxial source region and the polycrystalline semiconductor material portion contact each other without a gap therebetween. The polycrystalline semiconductor material portion provides a robust low resistance conductive path between the source region and the inner electrode. |
| US08507910B2 |
Active matrix display apparatus
An active matrix display apparatus includes a transistor, a storage capacitor, and a light-emitting element formed on a substrate. The transistor includes a source electrode, a drain electrode, and a gate electrode. The storage capacitor has a multilayered structure of a first electrode, a dielectric layer, and a second electrode stacked in this order on the substrate, and the light-emitting element has a multilayered structure of a third electrode, a light-emitting layer, and a fourth electrode stacked in this order on the substrate. The first electrode is electrically connected to the gate electrode of the transistor, and at least a part of the storage capacitor is disposed between the substrate and the light-emitting element. All of the substrate, the first electrode, the second electrode, and the third electrode are formed from a material transmitting a visible light emitted by the light-emitting element. Viewing from a top of the substrate, a region for storing charges in the storage capacitor includes or is equal to a light-emitting region of the light-emitting element. |
| US08507909B2 |
Measuring apparatus that includes a chip with a through silicon via, a heater having plural switches, and a stress sensor
A measuring apparatus including a first chip, a first circuit layer, a first heater, a first stress sensor and a second circuit layer is provided. The first chip has a first through silicon via, a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The first circuit layer is disposed on the first surface. The first heater and the first stress sensor are disposed on the first surface and connected to the first circuit layer. The second circuit layer is disposed on the second surface. The first heater comprises a plurality of first switches connected in series to generate heat. |
| US08507908B2 |
Probe and probe card
A probe comprises: contact parts to be electrically connected to input/output terminals of an IC device built in a semiconductor wafer under test; interconnect parts at the front ends of which the contact parts are provided; a plurality of beam parts on the top surface of which the interconnect parts are provided along the longitudinal direction; and a base part supporting the plurality of beam parts all together in a cantilever fashion, the beam parts are supported by the base part at a rear end region of the beam parts, and grooves are provided between the adjoining beam parts in the rear end region. |
| US08507906B2 |
CMOS image sensor and method of manufacturing the same
Provided is a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor having a structure capable of increasing areas of photodiodes in unit pixels and expanding light receiving areas of the photodiodes. In the CMOS image sensor, transfer transistors may be formed on the photodiode, and reset transistors, source follower transistors, and selection transistors may be formed on a layer on which the transfer transistors are not formed. In such a CMOS image sensor, the areas of the photodiodes may be increased in unit pixels so that a size of the unit pixels may be reduced and sensitivity of the pixel may be improved. |
| US08507903B2 |
Light-emitting device and method for manufacturing the same
A light-emitting element is disclosed that can drive at a low driving voltage and that has a longer lifetime than the conventional light-emitting element, and a method is disclosed for manufacturing the light-emitting element. The disclosed light-emitting element includes a plurality of layers between a pair of electrodes; and at least one layer among the plurality of layers contains one compound selected from the group consisting of oxide semiconductor and a metal oxide, and a compound having high hole transportation properties. Such the light-emitting element can suppress the crystallization of a layer containing one compound selected from the group consisting of oxide semiconductor and a metal oxide, and a compound having high hole transportation properties. As a result, a lifetime of the light-emitting element can be extended. |
| US08507902B2 |
Semiconductor device
The invention provides a semiconductor device where data can be written after the production and forgery caused by rewriting of data can be prevented, and which can be manufactured at a low cost using a simple structure and an inexpensive material. Further, the invention provides a semiconductor device having the aforementioned functions, where wireless communication is not blocked by the internal structure. The semiconductor device of the invention has an organic memory provided with a memory cell array including a plurality of memory cells, a control circuit for controlling the organic memory, and a wire for connecting an antenna. Each of the plurality of memory cells has a transistor and a memory element. The memory element has a structure where an organic compound layer is provided between a first conductive layer and a second conductive layer. The second conductive layer is formed in a linear shape. |
| US08507899B2 |
Electric transport component, method of manufacturing the same, as well as electro-optical device and opto-electrical device
An electric transport component may include a substrate provided with a barrier structure with a first inorganic layer, an organic decoupling layer and a second inorganic layer, wherein the organic decoupling layer is sandwiched between the first and the second inorganic layer, and at least one electrically conductive structure distributed in a plane defined by the organic decoupling layer, and that is accommodated in at least one trench in the organic decoupling layer. A method of manufacturing an electric transport component may include the steps of providing a first inorganic layer, providing a first organic decoupling layer, forming at least one trench in the organic decoupling layer, depositing an electrically conductive material in the at least one trench, and providing a second inorganic layer. The component may be applied for example in opto-electrical and electro-optical devices. |
| US08507895B2 |
Organic light emitting device using graphene
An organic light emitting device including graphene. The organic light emitting device includes a first electrode that is interposed between a transparent substrate and an organic layer emitting light, and includes graphene having a thickness of about 0.1 nanometer (nm) to about 10 nanometers (nm). |
| US08507893B2 |
Electronic device, light-receiving and light-emitting device, electronic integrated circuit and optical integrated circuit using the devices
Provided are an electronic device and a light-receiving and light-emitting device which can control the electron configuration of a graphene sheet and the band gap thereof, and an electronic integrated circuit and an optical integrated circuit which use the devices. By shaping the graphene sheet into a curve, the electron configuration thereof is controlled. The graphene sheet can be shaped into a curve by forming the sheet on a base film having a convex structure or a concave structure. The local electron states in the curved part can be formed by bending the graphene sheet. Thus, the same electron states as the cylinder or cap part of a nanotube can be realized, and the band gaps at the K points in the reciprocal lattice space can be formed. |
| US08507890B1 |
Photoconversion device with enhanced photon absorption
An infrared photoconversion device comprising a collector with at least an active layer made of a single sheet of doped single-layer, bilayer, or multilayer graphene patterned as nanodisks or nanoribbons. The single sheet of doped graphene presents high absorbance and thus, the efficiency of devices such as photovoltaic cells, photodetectors, and light emission devices can be improved by using graphene as the central absorbing or emitting element. These devices become tunable because their peak absorption or emission wavelength is changed via electrostatic doping of the graphene. |
| US08507888B2 |
Nonvolatile memory device and method for manufacturing same
According to one embodiment, a nonvolatile memory device includes a selection element layer and a nanomaterial aggregate layer. The selection element layer includes silicon. The nanomaterial aggregate layer is stacked on the selection element layer. The nanomaterial aggregate layer includes a plurality of micro conductive bodies and fine particles dispersed in a plurality of gaps between the micro conductive bodies. At least a surface of the fine particle is made of an insulating material other than silicon oxide. |
| US08507885B2 |
Semiconductor exposure device using extreme ultra violet radiation
The exposure device is able to supply only EUV radiation to a mask, while eliminating radiation other than the EUV radiation. A multi layer made from a plurality of Mo/Si pair layers is provided upon the front surface of a mirror, and blazed grooves are formed in this multi layer. Radiation which is incident from a light source device is incident upon this mirror, and is reflected or diffracted. Since the reflected EUV radiation (including diffracted EUV radiation) and the radiation of other wavelengths are reflected or diffracted at different angles, accordingly their directions of progression are different. By eliminating the radiation of other wavelengths with an aperture and/or a dumper, it is possible to irradiate a mask only with EUV radiation of high purity. |
| US08507884B2 |
Elliptical light source for ultraviolet (UV) curing lamp assemblies
A light source having a substantially elliptical cross-section for UV curing lamp assemblies is disclosed. The light source has a pair of end sections and a central section of smaller diameter than the end sections. The end sections are each connected to the central section by a tapered section the diameter of each of which decreases from an end that mates with an end section toward an end that mates with the central section. Each of the end sections has a substantially elliptical cross-section. The central section and the tapered sections may have a substantially elliptical cross-section. The aspect ratio of the elliptical cross-section of the end sections and the central section of the light source is preferably about 2:1. |
| US08507881B2 |
Nanolithography system
A nanolithography system comprising a novel optical printing head suitable for high throughput nanolithography. This optical head enables a super-resolution lithographic exposure tool that is otherwise compatible with the optical lithographic process infrastructure. The exposing light is transmitted through specially designed super-resolution apertures, of which the “C-aperture” is one example, that create small but bright images in the near-field transmission pattern. A printing head comprising an array of these apertures is held in close proximity to the wafer to be exposed. In one embodiment, an illumination source is divided into parallel channels that illuminate each of the apertures. Each of these channels can be individually modulated to provide the appropriate exposure for the particular location on the wafer corresponding to the current position of the aperture. A data processing system is provided to re-interpret the layout data into a modulation pattern used to drive the individual channels. In one embodiment of the invention, the exposure head remains stationary while the material to be exposed rotates beneath the head. Such an embodiment comprises a circular data fracturing system to process the layout data to determine the correct modulation pattern. |
| US08507875B2 |
Ultraviolet irradiation apparatus
A ultraviolet irradiation apparatus includes: an ultraviolet-irradiation water tank; a protection pipe provided in the ultraviolet-irradiation water tank; an ultraviolet lamp provided in the protection pipe to be lit up with high-frequency discharge at a frequency of 10 kHz to 10 MHz, inclusive; protection covers respectively provided on the two ends of the ultraviolet-irradiation water tank; an electronic ballast provided in one of the protection covers; and a feeder wire electrically connecting the ultraviolet lamp to the electronic ballast. Each of the ultraviolet-irradiation water tank and the protection covers is made of a conductive material with a specific conductivity and a relative magnetic permittivity whose product is equal to or larger than 1, and has a thickness at least three times as large as a skin depth at a frequency of a high-frequency current that flows through the ultraviolet lamp. |
| US08507874B2 |
Fluid treatment system
A fluid treatment system having: an inlet; an outlet; and a fluid treatment zone disposed therebetween. The fluid treatment zone has: (i) an elongate first radiation source assembly having a first longitudinal axis, and (ii) an elongate second radiation source assembly having a second longitudinal axis. The first and second longitudinal axes are non-parallel to each other and to a direction of fluid flow through the treatment zone. The present fluid treatment system can treat large volumes of fluid (e.g., wastewater, drinking water or the like); it requires a relatively small “footprint”; it results in a relatively lower coefficient of drag resulting in an improved hydraulic pressure loss/gradient over the length of the treatment system; and it results in relatively lower (or no) forced oscillation of the radiation sources thereby mitigating breakage of the radiation source and/or protective sleeve (if present). |
| US08507867B1 |
Radiometric cargo security device
Detection of a breach in security of an enclosure, such as a shipping enclosure, is indicated by detection of a change in a closed status. A detector enclosure is provided with a window opening in the detector enclosure. A reference body having an image slit is accessible from within the detector enclosure, and a radiation detector is used to alternately receive radiation through the window opening in the detector and from the reference body through the image slit. An indication of the two received radiation levels or a difference between the received radiation levels is used to provide an indication of a change in the closed status of the enclosure. |
| US08507865B2 |
Organic photodetector for the detection of infrared radiation, method for the production thereof, and use thereof
An organic photodetector detects infrared radiation, particularly radiation within the spectral region of over 1100 nm, the so-called imager region. Contrary to the currently known photodetectors, such as the Bolometer, II-VI semiconductor, and quantum well detectors, the photodetector contains semiconducting nano-particles for shifting the range of detection, requires no technical and cost-intensive effort in the production thereof, and may be constructed of flexible substrates by simple printing methods. |
| US08507864B2 |
Net solar radiometer
An improved net radiometer that measures the total net difference between incoming solar and surface reflected radiant short-wave solar energy flux, and inclusive of the down and upwelling long-wave infrared terrestrial radiant energy flux, within the combined short-wave and long-wave far infrared spectral range is disclosed. Disclosed are net radiometers with thermal absorbers structured to reduce wind sensitivity while maintaining or improving response time. Also disclosed are net radiometers that are configured in a novel way to reduce moisture and water accumulation on the thermal absorber surfaces. In addition, net radiometers are disclosed where the components are configured and thermal absorber structured to reduce unit-to-unit inconsistencies and minimize absorber sensitivity asymmetry effect between the upper and lower instrument absorbers. |
| US08507862B2 |
Low profile light collimator micro baffle and method
A light sensor including a substrate and one or more low profile baffle plates, the baffle plates including collimator holes to allow intended light to strike the light detector of the substrate while preventing extraneous light from striking the detector. The baffle plates are disposed above the substrate, on a shroud, which covers a portion of the substrate but allows intended light to pass through the collimator holes onto the light detector. By stacking baffle plates having a thin, low profile, one on top of another upon the shroud, extraneous light striking the material at an angle between the collimator holes cannot enter the sensor while intended light in the substantial front of the sensor enters the sensor through the collimator holes and can be detected by the light detector. |
| US08507861B2 |
Radiological characterization device protected against parasitic ionizing radiation sources
A radiological characterization device comprising at least one collimated radiological measuring probe, a sensitive end of which is placed in an exchangeable collimator having an opening and a field of observation. The collimator is carried by a collimator holder, the assembly consisting of collimator and collimator holder being inserted in a stack between two shielding screens, the shielding screens being exchangeable so as to adjust the thickness thereof, the assembly consisting of collimator and collimator holder and the shielding screens providing protection for the probe vis-à-vis parasitic ionizing radiation coming from ionizing radiation sources situated outside the field of observation of the collimator. |
| US08507859B2 |
Optical arrangement of infrared camera
Provided is an optical arrangement of the infrared camera comprising a lens unit in which a lens is supported by a frame body, an infrared detector module in which an infrared detector for detecting amount of an infrared ray transmitted through the lens as a heat and converting the infrared rays to an image signal is sealed in a housing having a window portion, and a shutter provided between the lens and the infrared detector module. A detector surface of the infrared detector, the window portion, the shutter, and the lens are arranged such that an inclination angle of a virtual straight line which connects each corner portion of the detector surface, the window portion and a maximum aperture of the shutter, and edge portion of an effective lens area of a lens closest to the shutter against to an optical axis is 25° to 35°, is adopted. |
| US08507853B2 |
Method and system for determining depth profiling
The present invention relates to a novel system and method for the determination of depth profiling with improved accuracy and reliability. The method comprises obtaining spectroscopic data from the sample while under at least two different electrical conditions of the sample, the spectroscopic data comprising a signal of charged particles emitted from the sample, and being indicative of a change in amplitude, spectral position and spectral shape of the signal from the sample while under different electrical conditions of the sample, the change being indicative of the compositional profile and spatial distribution for at least one chemical element in the sample along a direction through the sample. |
| US08507852B2 |
Apparatus and methods for ion mobility spectrometry
There is provided of an on mobility spectrometer for separating ions according to their on mobility comprising, in various aspects: a drift tube having therein a drift space and in the drift space at least two on separation paths of different lengths: a straight drift tube having therein a helical ion separation path; a helical on separation path surrounding an axially extending inner electrode assembly; and a drift tube for separating ions according to their ion mobility wherein a rotating arcuate electric field is applied in operation to separate ions having an ion mobility such that their rotational velocity in the drift tube is matched to the rotational velocity of the rotating arcuate electric field. Various methods for separating ions according to their on mobility are also provided. |
| US08507850B2 |
Multipole ion guide interface for reduced background noise in mass spectrometry
Ions that are transported from an ion source to a mass spectrometer for mass analysis are often accompanied by background particles such as photons, neutral species, and cluster or aerosol ions which originate in the ion source. Background particles are also produced by scattering and neutralization of ions during collisions with background gas molecules in higher pressure regions with line-of-sight to the mass spectrometer detector. In either case, such background particles produce noise in mass spectra. Apparatus and methods are provided in which a multipole ion guide is configured to efficiently transport ions through multiple vacuum stages, while preventing background particles, produced both in the ion source and along the ion transport pathway, from reaching the detector, thereby improving signal-to-noise in mass spectra. |
| US08507848B1 |
Wire electrode based ion guide device
This invention presents a kind of ion guide device comprising multiple layers of stretched wire electrodes crossing in space. These wire electrodes are distributed along a defined ion guiding axis in the ion guide device. Each layer of wire electrodes contains at least two wire electrodes with some distance away from the guiding axis, and rotates with an angle relative to wire electrodes on neighboring layer. The ion guide contains multiple layers of wire electrodes to form a cage-like ion guide tunnel and keeps the mounting framework of those wire electrodes outside of the ion guide tunnel, thus reducing the interference of the gas flows from the ion guide device. A power supply provides voltage to each layer of wire electrodes, creates an electric field which focuses the ions towards the guiding axis. |
| US08507847B2 |
Microengineered multipole ion guide
A microengineered multipole ion guide for use in miniature mass spectrometer systems is described. Exemplary methods of mounting rods in hexapole, octupole, and other multipole geometries are described. The rods forming the ion guide are supported in etched silicon structures defined in at least first and second substrates. |
| US08507846B2 |
Step-scan ion trap mass spectrometry for high speed proteomics
An ion trap mass spectrometer and methods for obtaining a mass spectrum of ions by step scanning the driving frequency in frequency increments over a bandwidth, wherein for each step a specific frequency is held for a fixed number of complete cycles, wherein each specific frequency is changed continuously to the frequency in the next step, and wherein each specific frequency in each step starts at phase zero position. |
| US08507844B2 |
Techniques for sample analysis
Techniques are described for performing sample analysis. Liquid chromatographic separation of a sample is performed and an eluent is generated. Mass spectrometry on said eluent is performed to detect a compound where the compound may occur in trace amounts. The compound may have a concentration, for example, of approximately less than one part per trillion. |
| US08507838B2 |
Microstructure photomultiplier assembly
The Microstructure Photomultiplier Assembly (MPA) enables the effective conversion of light signals (received at the front of the assembly) into readily-detectable electrical signals. The MPA comprises a photocathode, followed by an electron-multiplying plate(s) made from an insulating substrate which does not emit sufficient contaminants to poison the photocathode. Each plate is coated with a conductive layer. The front face of each plate is further coated with a layer of secondary electron-emissive material which, when struck by an incoming electron, can produce secondary electrons. Each plate is perforated with channels. The channels are designed to promote the efficient transfer and acceleration of electrons through the channels, under an applied voltage differential across the plate(s). An anode (pixelated or non-pixelated) at the end of the last plate collects the electrons and generates an electrical signal. The MPA is contained within a vacuum enclosure. |
| US08507833B2 |
System and method of brazing using non-silver metals
Systems and methods for brazing and soldering using low and non-silver based filler metals are described. The present invention includes methods and systems for brazing and soldering using copper based or bronze type filler metals in lieu of silver containing filler metals. The systems and methods provide advantages in that the bronze filler metals are substantially cheaper than silver alloy filler metals that are commonly used. Furthermore, the present invention uses a low-temperature, water-soluble flux that provides for easier cleanup after the completion of the brazing process. Additionally, the present invention provides significant advantages over traditional copper brazing in that it allows for a one-piece workflow and eliminates the need for large component pieces and filler metal inventories. This results in a significant decrease in capital expenditures and utility costs. Finally, the method described results in a significant decrease in the amount of equipment maintenance and capital investment that is necessary. |
| US08507832B2 |
Method of repairing in situ a pipe or tank of thermo-fusible material, and device for implementing this method
A method of repairing in situ a pipe or tank of thermo-fusible material, with a step for installing an electric heating element, the heating element including electrical conductors, and with a step for supplying said conductors with appropriate electric energy. The electrical conductors are supplied by a control panel set up prior to the repair and matching, for different thermo-fusible materials and different types of damage of the pipe or tank to be repaired, at least one technical characteristic of the pipe or tank, one characteristic of the electric energy to be applied and a profile of the application time of the electric energy. |
| US08507827B2 |
Method for the production of metal profiles
To create a metal section (P3) of complex shape, a three-dimensional drawing is made of the final size, then plane drawings are developed and made of each of the elements that form a distinct part of the section. These elements are then cut out (A3, B3) in at least one metal plate. Cutting operations are preferably executed flat in the flat plate. If necessary, at least one of the elements (A3, B3) is then formed. Lastly, the elements (A3, B3) are assembled together by welding for example, to form the section (P3). |
| US08507826B2 |
Microplasma spray apparatus and method for coating articles using same
A microplasma spray coating apparatus includes a microplasma apparatus with an anode, cathode, and an arc generator for generating an electric arc between the anode and cathode. An arc gas emitter injects inert gas through the electric arc. The electric arc is operable for ionizing the gas to create a plasma gas stream. A powder injector nozzle extends through the anode and injects powdered material into the plasma stream for transfer to the workpiece. |
| US08507825B2 |
Bonding method of dissimilar materials made from metals and bonding structure thereof
Disclosed is a bonding method for dissimilar materials made from metals and its resulting structures. The materials to be bonded are formed by layering three or more sheets such that a dissimilar material interface and a same material interface are formed. A first current is conducted between a three-sheet layered plate material wherein an aluminum alloy plate, a zinc plated steel plate and a bare steel plate, for example, are layered in order. A nugget is formed in an interface between the zinc plated steel plate and the bare steel plate, which are the same materials. Then, a second current greater than the first current is conducted, and a nugget is formed in an interface between the aluminum alloy plate and the zinc plated steel plate. |
| US08507824B2 |
System for processing floor decking of structures
A cart that uniformly transverses floor decking that has sequential peaks and valleys. The cart comprises a wheel assembly having an array of wheels forming rows and columns of wheels positioned under the cart wherein at any given instant of time a number of the wheels of the rows and columns contact peaks of the floor decking and while other wheels extend over and free from contacting the valleys such that the cart uniformly traverses the floor decking. |
| US08507819B2 |
Multi-functional flashlight
A flashlight is described holding at least one battery and an illumination source. A circuit interruption and completion device is provided forming a complete circuit between the illumination source and the battery, when the device is in a closed mode. The device comprises a switch which is manually actuated between at least a first position which causes the device to enter the closed mode and a second position. A switch holding structure comprises a member with means for making an electrical connection associated with the member; and at least one conductive spring is attached to the member to make electrical contact with the means for making an electrical connection with the battery. The switch controls multiple functions of the flashlight including a strobe and a momentary mode. A pushbutton switch may control the multiple functions by multiple pushes on the switch. |
| US08507817B2 |
Latch assembly and electrical switching apparatus including the same
A latch assembly includes a latch plate having an opening therethrough; and a latch shaft having a shaft member and a positioning shoulder disposed on the shaft member. The positioning shoulder has a seating surface thereon. The shaft member passes through the opening of the latch plate. The latch plate engages the positioning shoulder of the shaft member. The seating surface of the shaft member is swaged to retain the latch plate to the shaft member. |
| US08507815B2 |
Apparatus for the control and/or distribution of electric power comprising a protective anti-dust device
Devices for the control and/or distribution of electric power having protective features against dust and other particles are provided. |
| US08507814B2 |
Resistance device for high voltage switch assembly
A resistance device for an electrical switch assembly includes a housing having a base and first and second support brackets extending outwardly therefrom. The base receives first and second conductive blades of the electrical switch assembly. A cam member is movably connected to the first and second supporting brackets. First and second spring members are connected between the base and the cam member and bias the cam member away from the base. The amount of force required to open and close the switch assembly is increased by having to overcome the resistance force imparted by the first and second spring members on the cam member during rotation of the conductive blades. |
| US08507811B2 |
Touch sensor panels with reduced static capacitance
Capacitive touch panels may include a plurality of positive voltage lines that are driven at a first phase. These positive voltage lines may be used to provide the drive capacitance signal sensed by one or more sense regions. The touch panels may also include a plurality of negative phase voltage lines that are driven at a phase that is different than the first phase. Both the positive and negative voltage lines may cross-under one or more sense regions. The negative phase voltage lines are able to counter act and reduce the static capacitance in the sense regions. |
| US08507808B2 |
Shielding assembly and method for manufacturing same
A shielding assembly includes a frame including a main body, the main body defining at least one retaining hole; and a cover including a main board, the main panel including retaining elements and rims. The number of the retaining elements is the same as the number of the retaining holes, each rim protruding outwardly from a distal end of one of retaining elements. Each retaining element passes through one of the retaining holes, and each rim is latched with the portions of the frame surrounding the retaining holes. |
| US08507800B2 |
Capacitive touch panel having dual resistive layer
A patterned substrate for a touch screen sensor assembly that includes a plurality of electrodes that are formed from a first transparent conductive layer that has a first surface resistivity. The substrate also has a plurality of traces that may be used to couple the electrodes controller associated with the touch screen sensor assembly. The traces are formed from a second conductive layer that has a second surface resistivity that is less than the surface resistivity of the first conductive layer. The first and second conductive layers may be formed from indium tin oxide (ITO) having different surface resistivities. A second, similarly configured substrate can be provided and may be spaced apart from the first substrate by a dielectric spacer. |
| US08507799B2 |
Electric fence insulator and dead end
An apparatus is provided that electrically insulates an elongate body from a rigid member. The apparatus includes an insulating part and a helically shaped securing part. The insulating part contacts either the elongate body or the rigid member thereby electrically insulating the elongate body from the rigid member. The helically shaped securing part prevents the insulating part from moving. The helically shaped securing part includes a multiple continuous rods, whereby the multiple rods are individual rods or sets of rods where at least two of the continuous rods are adhered together with an adhesive to form a set. |
| US08507795B2 |
Joint for a submarine cable
A joint arrangement for a submarine cable, in which armoured submarine cables are joined together, the joint arrangement including a tubular enclosure into which two submarine cables to be joined are to extend and inside which conductors of the two submarine cables are joined, wherein the enclosure includes a current-carrying part arranged so as to be able of conducting at least a part of a current conducted by the armouring of the cables, and a reinforcement part provided to provide sufficient mechanical strength to the enclosure and made of a material of lower electrical conductivity than the material of the current-carrying part. The current-carrying part is integrated in the reinforcement part and forms a single unit therewith. |
| US08507793B2 |
Plasma display panel and chamber for manufacturing plasma display panel
A structure of a panel which can be thinned down to about a panel thickness of a PDP and a manufacturing method thereof are provided. A gas filling hole is provided to a surface of a rear glass substrate of a PDP, the surface coming in contact with a front glass substrate of the PDP. Vacuuming and filling of a discharge gas are performed through the gas filling hole. After filling of the discharge gas, a mechanism for lifting solder iron up and down and supplying solder provided inside a chamber inserts a tip of an ultrasonic soldering iron into the gas filling hole to start supplying a solder which is a material for a plug sealant. When a series of forming steps of the plug sealant are finished, the ultrasonic soldering iron is retreated before the solder is solidified to finish formation of the plug sealant. |
| US08507788B2 |
Solar cell panel
A solar cell panel is discussed. The solar cell panel includes a plurality of solar cells, each solar cell including a substrate and a second electrode positioned on a second surface of the substrate that is opposite a first surface of the substrate; a first conductive adhesive film including a first resin and a plurality of first conductive particles dispersed in the first resin, the first conductive adhesive film being positioned on a second surface of the second electrode that is opposite a first surface of the second electrode that contacts the substrate, and a first surface of the first conductive adhesive film that faces the second electrode entirely contacting at least one of the second surface of the second electrode and the second surface of the substrate; and an interconnector positioned on a second surface of the first conductive adhesive film that is opposite the first surface of the first conductive adhesive film. |
| US08507783B1 |
Transducer saddle for stringed instrument
A string saddle system for a multi-stringed instrument includes a unitary saddle body having a plurality of integral cavities, each in correspondence with a respective string and defining an area of sensitivity beneath each string extending from a top saddle body surface to the corresponding cavity structure and extending horizontally according to a length of the integral cavity. A flexurally responsive transducer element is located within and mechanically coupled to each integral cavity at mechanical coupling points for converting vibratory energy from the respective string to an electric signal. A first conductor layer is embedded within the saddle body, and, a second conductor layer embedded within the saddle body, the first and second conductor layers configured on a unitary plane, and connected to each transducer such that the transducer element of adjacent integral cavities couple electrical signals of alternating phase. |
| US08507780B2 |
Footprint indication kit for percussion instruments
Embodiments are disclosed that relate to facilitating the reproducible placement of percussive instruments, such as drums, relative to one another. For example, one disclosed embodiment provides a footprint indication kit for percussion instruments. The footprint indication kit comprises a set of marking strips configured to indicate a periphery of a footprint of a percussion instrument, the set of marking strips including two or more marking strips having a first side including a connecting material configured to removably engage a complementary connecting material on a drum mat, and the two or more marking strips including at least one of a marking strip having one or more curved edges and a rectangular marking strip. |
| US08507778B2 |
Self-assembled polyhedra
Self-assembling multimeric physical models of closed polyhedral structures made of structurally symmetric units, and which mimic the structure and self-assembly characteristics of naturally occurring systems such as viral capsids, are provided. Also provided are methods of creating structurally symmetric units, kits for forming self-assembling physical models of polyhedral structures, and methods of forming the same. |
| US08507776B2 |
Plants and seeds of common wheat cultivar WB-249
A wheat cultivar, designated WB-249, is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds, plants, and hybrids of wheat cultivar WB-249, and to methods for producing a wheat plant produced by crossing plants from wheat cultivar WB-249 with themselves or with plants from another wheat variety. The invention also relates to methods for producing a wheat plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic wheat plants and plant parts produced by those methods. The invention also relates to wheat varieties or breeding varieties and plant parts derived from wheat cultivar WB-249, to methods for producing other wheat varieties, lines or plant parts derived from wheat cultivar WB-249, and to the wheat plants, varieties, and their parts derived from the use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid wheat seeds and plants produced by crossing wheat cultivar WB-249 with another wheat cultivar. |
| US08507773B2 |
Plants and seeds of corn variety CV236864
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the corn variety designated CV236864. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CV236864, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CV236864 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to corn seeds and plants produced by crossing plants of variety CV236864 with plants of another variety, such as another inbred line. The invention further relates to the inbred and hybrid genetic complements of plants of variety CV236864. |
| US08507772B1 |
Maize variety inbred PH1D02
A novel maize variety designated PH1D02 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH1D02 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH1D02 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH1D02 or a locus conversion of PH1D02 with another maize variety. |
| US08507765B2 |
Soybean cultivar S100319
A soybean cultivar designated S100319 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar S100319, to the plants of soybean cultivar S100319, to the plant parts of soybean cultivar S100319, and to methods for producing progeny of soybean cultivar S100319. 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 S100319. The invention also relates to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines, or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S100319, 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 S100319 with another soybean cultivar. |
| US08507764B2 |
Soybean variety A1023705
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated A1023705. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety A1023705. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety A1023705 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety A1023705 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods. |
| US08507759B2 |
Lettuce variety 79-88 RZ
The present invention relates to a lettuce cultivar having resistance to downy mildew (Bremia lactucae Regel), currant-lettuce aphid (Nasonovia ribis-nigri ) and lettuce mosaic virus (LMV), and which has green, deeply-incised, nicely-frilled leaves. The invention further relates to methods for producing the lettuce cultivar, represented by lettuce variety 79-88 RZ, representative seed having been deposited under NCIMB Accession No. 41615. |
| US08507758B2 |
Markerless transformation
Methods for identification of successful transformation without a need for in vitro selection are provided. Direct detection of nucleotide sequences of interest is described which eliminate the need for use of ancillary nucleotide sequences. |
| US08507757B2 |
Composition and method to alleviate joint pain
Beneficial and synergistic effects for alleviating joint pain and symptoms of osteoarthritis and/or rheumatoid arthritis have been found with krill oil and/or marine oil in combination with other active constituents, including astaxanthin and polymeric hyaluronic acid or sodium hyaluronate (hyaluronan) in an oral dosage form. |
| US08507756B2 |
Plant protection
The invention provides seed treatment compositions as well as their use, methods for treating seeds, methods of protecting plants against pests and also treated seeds and plants. In one embodiment there is provided a method of treating a seed with a seed treatment composition to induce a plant resistance mechanism against one or more pests in a plant grown from said seed. |
| US08507747B2 |
Absorbent article
An absorbent article includes a liquid-pervious sheet, an outer covering sheet, and an absorbent structure sandwiched between the liquid-pervious sheet and the outer covering sheet. The absorbent structure includes a liquid-absorbent mixture composed of super-absorbent polymer particles and fluff pulp and nonwoven fabric sheet formed from long fibers of thermoplastic resin. The nonwoven fabric sheet is put in contact, along at least one surface thereof, with the liquid-absorbent mixture and has cross points at which the long fiber sealed together, and a nap height defined by a difference between a thickness measured before a napping test and a thickness measured after the napping test is at least 0.5 mm. |
| US08507745B1 |
Processes and systems for treating aromatic feed including an aromatic component and nitrogen-containing impurities, and processes and systems for preparing a reaction product of the aromatic component
Processes and systems for treating an aromatic feed comprising an aromatic component and nitrogen-containing impurities, as well as processes and systems for preparing a reaction product of an aromatic component from an aromatic feed comprising the aromatic component and nitrogen-containing impurities, are provided herein. In an embodiment, a process for treating an aromatic feed comprising an aromatic component and nitrogen-containing impurities includes adsorbing a portion of the nitrogen-containing impurities from the aromatic feed to produce a treated aromatic feed comprising the aromatic component and residual nitrogen-containing impurities. The treated aromatic feed and water are mixed to produce a hydrated aromatic feed. A purified aromatic feed and a water component are distilled from the hydrated aromatic feed in a distillation stage, wherein the water component comprises residual nitrogen-containing impurities from the treated aromatic feed and wherein the purified aromatic feed comprises the aromatic component. |
| US08507741B2 |
Methods for co-production of alkylbenzene and biofuel from natural oils using hydrocracking
Embodiments of methods for co-production of linear alkylbenzene and biofuel from a natural oil are provided. A method comprises the step of deoxygenating the natural oils to form paraffins. A first portion of the paraffins is hydrocracked to form a first stream of normal and lightly branched paraffins in the C9 to C14 range and a second stream of isoparaffins. The first stream is dehydrogenated to provide mono-olefins. Then, benzene is alkylated with the mono-olefins under alkylation conditions to provide an alkylation effluent comprising alkylbenzenes and benzene. Thereafter, the alkylbenzenes are isolated to provide the alkylbenzene product. A second portion of the paraffins and the isoparaffins are processed to form biofuel. |
| US08507739B2 |
Method for conversion of disposable hydrocarbons into diesel and heating oil fuels and conversion of biomass into biodiesel
The present invention is a self-powered method for conversion of disposable hydrocarbons into diesel and heating oil fuels and conversion of biomass into biodiesel fuel. The method is operated using a feedstock tank, a preparation tank for first stage warming of the feedstock, a first heat exchanger to separate out water as steam and light ends, a stack to vent steam to the atmosphere, a second heat extension to raise the temperature to the necessary for processing the feedstock in a cracking kettle, a fume incinerator burning the light ends to generate heat for the first and second heat exchangers, a distillation column to process the gases from the cracking kettle, a condenser to convert gas to liquid #2 diesel fuel, a filter and chiller unit and storage tanks to hold the fuels and residuals. The method uses retained heat in the residuals to preheat the feedstock to save energy. |
| US08507736B2 |
Gas phase process for monoalcohol production from glycerol
A method of producing short chain alcohols from glycerol generated as a byproduct of biodiesel production is provided. |
| US08507733B2 |
Coordination complexes and process of producing polycarbonate by copolymerization of carbon dioxide and epoxide using the same as catalyst
Provided are a complex prepared from ammonium salt-containing ligands and having such an equilibrium structural formula that the metal center takes a negative charge of 2 or higher, and a method for preparing polycarbonate via copolymerization of an epoxide compound and carbon dioxide using the complex as a catalyst. When the complex is used as a catalyst for copolymerizing an epoxide compound and carbon dioxide, it shows high activity and high selectivity and provides high-molecular weight polycarbonate, and thus easily applicable to commercial processes. In addition, after forming polycarbonate via carbon dioxide/epoxide copolymerization using the complex as a catalyst, the catalyst may be separately recovered from the copolymer. |
| US08507728B2 |
Method for manufacturing ketone
A method for manufacturing a ketone includes oxidizing an internal olefin or a cyclic olefin having one carbon-carbon double bond or more at a position other than terminals of a molecule thereof in an amide-based solvent in the presence of water, a palladium catalyst, and molecular oxygen, thereby bonding an oxo group to at least one of the carbon atoms constituting the carbon-carbon double bond, in which the amide-based solvent is represented by the formula in the formula (1), R1 represents an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, R2 and R3 each independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms or an aryl group, and when R1 and R2 are alkyl groups, R1 and R2 may be bonded to each other to form a ring structure. |
| US08507726B2 |
Photoinitiator mixtures
Photoinitiators mixture comprising (i) at least one compound selected from the group consisting of alpha-hydroxy ketones, monoacylphosphine oxides, bisacylphosphine oxides, ketosulfones, benzil ketals, benzoin ether, phenylglyoxylates, borates and titanocenes; and (ii) at least one compound of the formula (I) or (I′) R1, R′1, R2 and R2′ R′9 independently of each other for example are hydrogen or C1-C12alkyl R7, R8, R9, R′8 and R′9 independently of each other for example are hydrogen, C1-C12alkyl which optionally is substituted or phenyl which optionally is substituted, exhibit excellent photoinitiating properties. |
| US08507723B2 |
Polycationic compounds and uses thereof
Aspects of the present invention relate to compounds and methods useful in modulating angiogenesis and methods of treating or preventing diseases associated with angiogenesis by administering a polycationic compound. The present invention relates to methods of use and compositions for inhibiting angiogenesis-mediated disorders in mammals including animals and humans. Additionally, this invention relates to the combined use of polycations with other anti-angiogenesis agents for the treatment of different angiogenesis-mediated disorders. Additionally, those polycationic compounds can be used with various anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic agents as well as with radio-therapeutic agents in cancer patients to prevent and treat tumor growth and metastasis. |
| US08507715B2 |
Method for producing β-aminocarbonyl compound
An optically active β-aminocarbonyl compound is obtained by a Mannich reaction between an aldimine in which: nitrogen is protected and a malonic acid diester, in the presence of optically active BINOL and dialkyl magnesium (in which two alkyl groups are the same or different) in an amount 1 to 2 molar times the amount of the BINOL. |
| US08507714B2 |
7-membered ring compound and method of production and pharmaceutical application thereof
A 7-membered heterocyclic compound having the formula (I), or its salt, or a solvate thereof with a chymase inhibitory action and useful for the prevention or treatment of various diseases, in which chymase is involved: a method for producing the same, and a pharmaceutical composition useful for the prevention or treatment of diseases, in which chymase is involved, including the compound of having the formula (I), or its pharmaceutically acceptable salt, or a solvate thereof are provided. |
| US08507709B2 |
Method for producing hydrocarbon oxysilicon compounds
The invention relates to a method for producing silicon compounds (A) having hydrocarbon oxy-groups that have at least one unit of the general formula (1) HmSi(OR)n(OR′)oR″pX4-m-n-o-p (1) by conversion of silicon compounds (B) having at least one unit of the general formula (2) Hm+nSi(OR′)oR″pX4-m-n-o-p (2), having an alcohol of the general formula (3) ROH (3) in the presence of a catalyst (K) that is on a carrier material bonded metal selected from Ni, Pd, Pt, wherein per mol formed group OR, at maximum 1 liter of solvent is used and wherein R, R′, R″, X, m, n, o and p have the meanings listed in claim 1. |
| US08507708B2 |
Organometallic catalyst and preparation thereof
The present invention relates to a method for producing an organometallic catalyst and an organometallic catalyst when produced by the method. The method comprises the steps of combining a polycarboxylic acid or anhydride and a metal-oxide, metal-hydroxide or metal-salt with a solvent at a temperature and pressure at which the solvent exists as a supercritical or near-critical fluid. The polycarboxylic acid or anhydride is reacted with the metal-oxide, metal-hydroxide or metal-salt for sufficient time and under sufficient temperature and pressure to produce the organometallic catalyst. The present invention also relates to a process for making a poly(alkylene carbonate) in the presence of a catalytic amount of the organometallic catalyst produced by the method. |
| US08507707B2 |
Regioselective catalytic conversion of hydrocarbons to versatile synthetic reagents via C-H bond functionalization
The present invention provides a novel and improved method of functionalizing a C—H bond of an arene compound comprising the step of reacting an organometallic compound having a group 14 element with the arene compound having at least one hydrogen bonded to a carbon in the presence of a catalyst. |
| US08507700B2 |
Method of carbon chain extension using novel aldol reaction
Method of producing C8-C15 hydrocarbons comprising providing a ketone starting material; providing an aldol starting material comprising hydroxymethylfurfural; mixing the ketone starting material and the aldol starting material in a reaction in the presence of a proline-containing catalyst selected from the group consisting of Zn(Pro)2, Yb(Pro)2, and combinations thereof, or a catalyst having one of the structures (I), (II) or (III), and in the presence of a solvent, wherein the solvent comprises water and is substantially free of organic solvents, where (I), (II) and (III) respectively are: where R1 is a C1-C6 alkyl moiety, X=(OH) and n=2. In (III), X may be CH2, sulfur or selenium, M may be Zn, Mg, or a lanthanide, and R1 and R2 each independently may be a methyl, ethyl, phenyl moiety. |
| US08507695B2 |
Carbazole derivative, light-emitting element material, light-emitting element, light-emitting device, electronic device, and lighting device
A carbazole derivative represented by the general formula (1) is provided. In the formula, Ar1 represents a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group having 6 to 10 carbon atoms which form a ring; α and β independently represent a substituted or unsubstituted arylene group having 6 to 12 carbon atoms which form a ring; R1 represents an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms or a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group having 6 to 10 carbon atoms which form a ring; and R11 to R17 and R21 to R28 independently represent hydrogen, an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, or a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group having 6 to 10 carbon atoms which form a ring. |
| US08507693B2 |
Process for synthesis of fipronil
The present disclosure relates to a process for trifluoromethylsulfinyl pyrazole compound of formula I, from a compound of formula III, wherein, R, R1 and R2 represent a group containing halogen group respectively and R3 represents a perhaloalkyl. |
| US08507692B2 |
Ester compound and use thereof
An ester compound represented by formula (1): wherein R1 represents C1-C4 alkyl, has an excellent pest control effect and is therefore useful as an active ingredient of a pest control agent. |
| US08507691B2 |
Process for continuously producing 3-isothiazolinone derivatives and intermediate products thereof
The present application provides a process for continuously producing 3-isothiazolinone derivatives and intermediate products thereof, comprising continuously carrying out four steps, i.e., sulfuration, purification, amination and chlorination. Compared with the batch process of the prior art, the process of the present application may reduce the amount of manufacturing devices, lower energy consumption, simplify operations, and is therefore particularly suitable for mass production. |
| US08507688B2 |
Process for preparing aryl- and heteroarylacetic acid derivatives
The present invention relates to a process for preparing α-arylmethylcarbonyl compound of the formula (III), characterized in that aryl- and heteroarylacetic acids and derivatives thereof of the formula (I) are reacted with α-halomethylcarbonyl compounds of the formula (II) in the presence of a palladium catalyst, of a phosphine ligand, of an inorganic base and of a phase transfer catalyst, optionally using an organic solvent. |
| US08507687B2 |
Solid forms of 3-(6-(1-(2,2-difluorobenzo[D][1,3]dioxol-5-yl) cyclopropanecarboxamido)-3-methylpyridin-2-yl)benzoic acid
The present invention relates to a substantially a solid form of 3-(6-(1-(2,2-difluorobenzo[d][1,3]dioxol-5-yl)cyclopropanecarboxamido)-3-methylpyridin-2-yl)benzoic acid (Compound 1, Solvate Form A and Compound 1, HCl Salt Form A), processes for making such forms, pharmaceutical compositions thereof, and methods of treatment therewith. |
| US08507683B2 |
Compounds for the treatment of hepatitis C
The disclosure provides compounds of formula I, including their salts, as well as compositions and methods of using the compounds. The compounds have activity against hepatitis C virus (HCV) and may be useful in treating those infected with HCV. |
| US08507680B2 |
Production process of a heteroaryl-type boron compounds with iridium catalyst
The present invention provides a production process of a heteroaryl mono- or diboron compound comprising an aromatic heterocyclic compound and a boron compound in the form of bis(pinacolate)diboron or pinacolate diborane in the presence of a iridium-containing catalyst and a ligand such as a bipyridyl ligand. The reaction is conducted in a single step under mild conditions and allows for changing the charged ratios of the raw materials. |
| US08507679B2 |
Heteroleptic, dual tridentate Ru(II) complexes as sensitizers for dye-sensitized solar cells
Photosensitizers having a formula of RuL1L2 (1) are provided, wherein Ru is ruthenium; L1 and L2 are heterocyclic tridentate ligands. L1 has a formula of (2), and L2 has a formula of G1G2G3 (3), wherein G1 and G3 are selected from the group consisting of formulae (4) to (7), and G2 is selected from the group consisting of formulae (7) and (8). The above-mentioned photosensitizers are suitable to be used as sensitizers for fabrication of high efficiency dye-sensitized solar cells. |
| US08507674B2 |
Quorum sensing inhibitor
The present invention provides a control agent that is extremely effective in controlling bacterial diseases. The quorum sensing inhibitor and bacterial disease control agent for agricultural and horticultural use of the present invention contain a pyrimidinone compound represented by General Formula (1): wherein R1 represents a C1-5 alkyl group or a phenyl group, and R2 represents a hydrogen atom or a C1-5 alkyl group, provided that R1 cannot be a methyl group when R2 represents a hydrogen atom. |
| US08507672B2 |
Substituted pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidines as LIM kinase 2 inhibitors
Substituted pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine-based compounds useful as inhibitors of LIM kinase 2 are disclosed. Also disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compounds and methods of their use to treat, manage and prevent inflammatory diseases and disorders, cancer, and diseases and disorders of the eye. |
| US08507670B2 |
Matrix metalloproteinase inhibitors
The present invention relates to β-hydroxy and amino substituted carboxylic acids, which act as matrix metalloprotease inhibitors, particularly diastereomerically pure β-hydroxy carboxylic acids, corresponding processes for the synthesis of and pharmaceutical compositions containing the compounds of the present invention. Compounds of the present invention are useful in the treatment of various inflammatory, autoimmune and allergic diseases, such as methods of treating asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, COPD, rhinitis, osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, psoriasis, pulmonary fibrosis, wound healing disorders, pulmonary inflammation, acute respiratory distress syndrome, periodontitis, multiple sclerosis, gingivitis, atherosclerosis, neointimal proliferation, which leads to restenosis and ischemic heart failure, stroke, renal diseases, tumor metastasis, and other inflammatory disorders characterized by the over-expression and over-activation of a matrix metalloproteinase using the compounds. |
| US08507668B2 |
Process for the synthesis of ivabradine and addition salts thereof with a pharmaceutically acceptable acid
Process for the synthesis of ivabradine of formula (I): addition salts thereof with a pharmaceutically acceptable acid, and hydrates thereof. |
| US08507667B2 |
Thiolactams and uses thereof
This invention provides compounds of formula I: wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, and R6 are as described in the specification. The compounds are inhibitors of PLK and are thus useful for treating proliferative, inflammatory, or cardiovascular disorders. |
| US08507663B2 |
Compositions and methods for inhibiting expression of CD274/PD-L1 gene
The invention relates to double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) compositions targeting the CD274/PD-L1 gene, and methods of using such dsRNA compositions to inhibit expression of CD274/PD-L1. |
| US08507661B2 |
Modified iRNA agents
The invention relates to iRNA agents, which preferably include a monomer in which the ribose moiety has been replaced by a moiety other than ribose. The inclusion of such a monomer can allow for modulation of a property of the iRNA agent into which it is incorporated, e.g., by using the non-ribose moiety as a point to which a ligand or other entity, e.g., a lipophilic moiety. e.g., cholesterol, is directly, or indirectly, tethered. The invention also relates to methods of making and using such modified iRNA agents. |
| US08507660B2 |
Alpha-selective sialyl phosphate donors for preparation of sialosides and sialoside arrays for influenza virus detection
A novel N-acetyl-5-N,4-O-carbonyl-protected dibutyl sialyl phosphate donor for sialylation of both primary and sterically hindered secondary acceptors to prepare sialosides with high yield and α-selectivity is disclosed. Methods for making disaccharide building blocks comprising α(2→3), α(2→6), α(2→8), α(2→8)/α(2→9) alternate, and α(2→9) sialosides are provided. methods for one-pot synthesis of complex sialosides are disclosed. Libraries of sialosides and methods for using the libraries for detection and receptor binding analysis of surface glycoproteins or pathogens and cancer cells are disclosed. Methods for distinguishing between hemagglutinin (HA) from various strains of influenza are provided. |
| US08507657B2 |
Anti-GD2 antibodies
Described herein are antibodies that specifically bind ganglioside GD2. Also described are nucleotides encoding such antibodies, cells expressing such antibodies, methods of use for such antibodies, and methods for using the antibodies to treat diseases associated with ganglioside GD2. In addition, tissue culture media supplements are described as are methods of use for the supplements. Described herein are albumin-ganglioside conjugates and corresponding methods for producing such conjugates. Methods of purifying or isolating antibodies are also described. |
| US08507654B2 |
Altered antibodies
This invention relates to engineering of antibodies and more specifically provides altered antibodies of the IgG class to which one or more effector molecules are attached. The invention further relates to methods for the production of such conjugated antibodies. |
| US08507653B2 |
Factor IX moiety-polymer conjugates having a releasable linkage
The present invention provides Factor IX moiety-polymer conjugates having a releasable linkage. Methods of making conjugates, methods for administering conjugates, are also provided. |
| US08507652B2 |
Pharmaceutical composition, dressing and method for treating skin lesion, intermediate composition and process for preparing said dressing, and use of cerium salt associated with a collagen matrix
The present invention refers to a pharmaceutical composition for treating skin lesion, comprising a cerium salt on a collagen matrix and a dermatologically acceptable carrier. In addition, the present invention also provides an intermediate composition for preparing a dressing for treating skin lesion and a process for preparing such dressing by lyophilizing said intermediate composition. The present invention also refers to a dressing for treating skin lesion, comprising a cerium salt on a collagen matrix, as well as to the use of a cerium salt associated with collagen in the preparation of the pharmaceutical composition or dressing according to the present invention. Another embodiment of the present invention is a method for treating skin lesion by applying such pharmaceutical composition or dressing on said skin lesion. The composition or dressing of the present invention can be used in topical applications in a variety of lesion types, such as skin lesions involving the release of toxins related to microbial proteins on human or animal organisms, or those so-called HSPs (heat shock proteins); burns which involve burned skin toxin formation or LPC (lipoprotein complex); chronically ulcerate skin lesions in which there is an overproduction of proteinase; skin lesions of difficult resolution, in which control of exudate overproduction is required; and critically infected or colonized skin lesions. |
| US08507649B2 |
Cosmetic compositions comprising at least one peptide with at least one immobilized aromatic cycle
Topical cosmetic use as a whitening active ingredient of at least one peptide, comprising at least one blocked aromatic cycle and having the general formula (I): A-(Xa)m-Xc-(Xb)n-B. The invention also discloses a cosmetic composition comprising at least said peptide and a method of decreasing skin pigmentation, whitening or lightening human skin, comprising a topical application of said composition. |
| US08507648B2 |
Detection of truncation mutations by mass spectrometry
This invention relates to the detection and analysis by mass spec of nascent proteins, and in particular truncated proteins, translated within cellular or cell-free translation systems. N-terminal and C-terminal epitopes introduced into these nascent proteins permit rapid and efficient isolation, as well as mass difference. |
| US08507647B2 |
Antibacterial agents for the treatment of gram positive infections
The present invention relates to novel lipopeptide compounds, pharmaceutical compositions of these compounds and methods of using these compounds as antibacterial compounds. The compounds of the invention are particularly useful against a variety of bacteria, including resistant strains. The compounds are useful as antibacterial agents against Clostridium difficile. |
| US08507642B2 |
(Per)fluorinated addition products
The invention pertains to a process for the addition of at least one (per)fluoropolyether peroxide comprising at least one peroxidic moiety and at least one fluoropolyoxyalkene chain (chain Rf) (i.e. a fluorocarbon segment comprising ether linkages in main chain) [peroxide (P)] onto a per(halo)fluorinated aromatic compound [compound (F)], so as to yield an addition compound of said compound (F), said addition compound [compound (A)] comprising at least one perfluorinated non-aromatic cyclic moiety having at least two substituents comprising a chain Rf and, optionally, conjugated or non conjugated double bond(s). Said addition compounds have been notably found useful as additives for (per)fluorinated fluids and lubricants or as base materials for the manufacture of gum and/or graft polymer compositions. |
| US08507641B2 |
Production of vinylidene-terminated and sulfide-terminated telechelic polyolefins via quenching with disulfides
Provided herein are methods for preparing vinylidene-terminated polyolefins. Further provided herein are sulfide-terminated polyolefins. |
| US08507639B2 |
Radiopaque amide polymers and medical devices formed thereof
Radiopaque polymers have a main chain and a plurality of amide groups which have bound to the amide nitrogen atom thereof an organohalide group that is pendant to the polymer main chain, the organo halide group including one or more iodine and/or bromine atoms thereon. The polymer may be a modified polyamide polymer, copolymer or block copolymer or a modified poly(meth)acrylamide or (meth)acrylamide copolymer or block copolymer. The polymers may be employed in medical devices and are useful for instance to track the movement of a catheter through the body or the inflation of a balloon at a site. The polymers may be made by coupling reactions performed on preexisting amide polymers. |
| US08507638B2 |
Polyester compositions containing cyclobutanediol having a certain combination of inherent viscosity and moderate glass transition temperature and articles made therefrom
Described are polyesters comprising (a) a dicarboxylic acid component comprising terephthalic acid residues; optionally, aromatic dicarboxylic acid residues or aliphatic dicarboxylic acid residues; 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol residues; and cyclohexanedimethanol residues. The polyesters have a desirable combination of inherent viscosity and glass transition temperature (“Tg”). The polyesters can have an inherent viscosity from 0.35 to 1.2 dL/g as determined in 60/40 (wt/wt) phenol/tetrachloroethane at a concentration of 0.5 g/100 ml at 25° C. and a Tg of 85 to 115° C. The polyesters may be manufactured into articles such as fibers, films, bottles or sheets. |
| US08507637B2 |
Porphyrin copolymer containing thienothiadiazole units, preparation method and uses thereof
A porphyrin copolymer containing thienothiadiazole units, preparation method and uses thereof are disclosed. The copolymer has the structural formula (I), wherein: R1, R2, R3, R4 are same or different and each represents a C1-C32 alkyl; n is an integer of 1-100. The copolymer comprises fluorene units, thienothiadiazole units and porphyrin units, which enhance the density of electron cloud in copolymer skeleton, make the band-gap of the copolymer become narrow, thereby broaden the spectral response range of the copolymer, and improve the photoelectric transformation efficiency. |
| US08507634B2 |
Polyimide intermediate transfer belt
Exemplary embodiments provide an intermediate transfer belt, materials and processes for producing an intermediate transfer belt, and an image transfer apparatus used in electrophotographic printing devices, wherein the intermediate transfer belt can comprise a thermosetting polyimide comprising the reaction product of a polyamic acid and a hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene. |
| US08507631B2 |
Polysiloxane coating with hybrid copolymer
A coating includes the reaction product of (a) a hybrid copolymer incorporating (i) a first monomer including a hydroxy-functional organoacrylate and (ii) a second monomer including an organoalkoxysilane and (b) a second material including an organofunctional alkoxysilane. The first monomer can be a hydroxy functional acrylate and/or a hydroxyalkylacrylate. The second monomer can be a trialkoxysilane. The second material can be a trialkoxysilane. |
| US08507630B2 |
Organic inorganic composite material and utilization thereof
The invention has an object to obtain an organic inorganic composite material having high activity and high selectivity, and suitable as a catalyst material having small elution of an active metal from a carrier, and further to obtain an organosilicon compound suitable for the preparation of the composite material. The composite material is an organic inorganic composite material comprising an organosilicon compound having at least two groups containing reactive silicon at a molecular end, bonded to one silicon atom constituting the organosilicon compound, and an inorganic oxide material, the organosilicon compound and the inorganic oxide material being bonded to each other through a plurality of groups containing reactive silicon of the organosilicon compound. The organosilicon compound is represented by the following general formula (1) or (2). |
| US08507627B2 |
Aromatic vinyl compound-conjugated diene compound copolymer and method of producing the same as well as rubber composition and tire
This invention relates to an aromatic vinyl compound-conjugated diene compound copolymer capable of giving excellent wear resistance and resistance to wet skid to a tire, and more particularly to an aromatic vinyl compound-conjugated diene compound copolymer obtained by an addition polymerization of an aromatic vinyl compound and a conjugated diene compound in the presence of a polymerization catalyst composition comprising at least one specified metallocene complex selected from the group consisting of a metallocene complex represented by the following general formula (I): (wherein M is a lanthanoid element, scandium or yttrium, and CpR is independently a non-substituted or substituted indenyl, and Ra to Rf are independently an alkyl group having a carbon number of 1-3 or a hydrogen atom, and L is a neutral Lewis base, and w is an integer of 0-3) and so on, wherein a content of cis-1,4 bond in a conjugated diene compound portion is not less than 80%. |
| US08507625B2 |
Michael acceptor having multiple hydroxyl groups, and Michael addition product derived therefrom
Provided is a Michael addition product prepared from a multifunctional acryl monomer having multiple hydroxyl groups allowing introduction of acryl functional groups, as a Michael acceptor, and a Michael donor. The Michael addition product is a novel multifunctional compound having an oligomer and a photoinitiator moiety in the molecule. Since it can be cured under a standard UV curing condition without having to add a photoinitiator, it is reduced to air pollution or health problem. Therefore the superior physical properties were obtained by cured coatings without surface tackiness. In addition, its hydroxyl groups allow, through isocyanate bonding or introduction of acryl groups, 3-dimensional crosslinking and molecular and compositional design for improving expandability, friction, and reactivity and hydrophilicity for self-adhesion, hardness of cured film, or the like. Consequently, a very useful, multifunctional or water-dispersible coating composition may be prepared. |
| US08507624B2 |
Compositions having hase rheology modifiers
A monomer compound that contains at least one polymerizable functional group per molecule, and at least one bicycloheptyl-, bicycloheptenyl-, or branched (C5-C42)alkyl-polyether radical per molecule, wherein the bicycloheptyl- or bicycloheptenyl-polyether radical may optionally be substituted on one or more of the ring carbon atoms by one or two (C1-C6)alkyl groups per ring carbon atom is useful in making polymers, particularly pH responsive polymers. |
| US08507623B2 |
Maleimide-alpha-alkylstyrene-based terpolymer with low molten viscosity and continuous bulk process for producing it
Disclosed are a maleimide-α-alkylstyrene-based, heat-resistant bulk terpolymer and a preparation process thereof. More specifically, disclosed are a bulk terpolymer, comprising 5-60 wt % of an N-substituted maleimide monomer, 10-70 wt % of an α-alkylstyrene monomer and 5-50 wt % of an unsaturated nitrile monomer, as well as a continuous bulk polymerization process for preparing the same. The disclosed bulk terpolymer has a weight-average molecular weight (Mw) of 70,000-300,000 and a glass transition temperature of 140-200° C., shows excellent high-temperature thermal stability and heat resistance and a remarkably low melt viscosity, and thus is excellent not only in processability, but also in productivity, processability, moldability and blendability, when it is blended with other resins. Also, the continuous bulk polymerization process is equipped with a devolatilizer and enables the bulk terpolymer to be produced at low cost and high efficiency. |
| US08507620B2 |
Process for preparing water absorbent resin with high performance
The present invention relates to a process for preparing a water absorbent resin, particularly to a process for preparing a water absorbent resin which can resolve the uneven size of the fine pulverized gel-type resin and long pulverizing time those are the problems of prior process for preparing the water absorbent resin, by carrying out the pulverizing process of the gel-type resin divided into the coarse pulverizing process which is carried out with the internal cross-linking polymerization, and the fine pulverizing process. According to the preparation process, it is possible to mass-produce the water absorbent resin showing excellent absorption under pressure and low extractable content. |
| US08507619B2 |
Process for the polymerisation of vinyl-containing monomers
The invention relates to a process for the polymerization of vinyl-containing monomers such as, for example, monomeric vinyl halides, in a reaction mixture, in which process less waste is generated. |
| US08507618B2 |
Siloxane mixtures containing epoxide resins and method for the preparation thereof and use thereof
Composition comprising (A) 50-99.5 wt %, based on the total weight, of A, B and C of a reaction resin or reaction resin mixture that is processed into thermosetting materials, said resin or resin mixture being liquid at temperatures in the range of 15 to 100° C. and having an average molecular weight of 200 to 500,000 and with a sufficient number of suitable reactive groups for a curing process and (B) 0.5-50 wt %, relative to the total weight of A, B and C of one or more dispersed polyorganosiloxanes that are contained in the reaction resin or reaction resin mixture homogeneously in finely distributed form as polyorganosiloxane droplets with a diameter of 0.001 to 4 μm, wherein the organopolysiloxane particle is a polymer of the general formula (R3SiO1/2)W(R2SiO2/2)X—(RSiO3/2)Y—(SiO4/2)Z, where w=0 to 20 Mol %, x=80 to 99.9 Mol %, y=0.5 to 10 Mol %, z=0 to 10 Mol %, (C) 0.1-50 wt %, based on the total weight of A, B and C of one or more silicone organo copolymers as dispersing agents that can be homogeneously dissolved or homogeneously emulsified in the reaction resin or reaction resin mixture. |
| US08507617B2 |
Polyurea compositions and methods of use
Disclosed are polyurea compositions comprising the reaction products of a polyformal-isocyanate prepolymer and a curing agent comprising an amine. The compositions are useful as sealants in aerospace applications. |
| US08507613B2 |
Process for the alkoxylation of amino group containing polymers
The present invention relates to a process for the alkoxylation of a first polymer comprising at least one monomer unit having NH groups and optionally NH2 groups, wherein the first polymer has a molecular weight Mw of at least 500 g/mol, comprising the steps of (a) reacting the first polymer with alkylene oxide in a reaction mixture comprising a solvent until the average degree of alkoxylation of each NH group and each optional NH2 group, calculated as two NH groups, is from 0.75 to 1.25; (b) adding a second polymer of formula (I), wherein R is a linear or branched alkyl group having from 1 to 20 carbon atoms, each R′ is independently a linear or branched alkyl group having from 1 to 20 carbon atoms or hydrogen, each n is independently from 1 to 5 and m is from 5 to 40, to the reaction mixture of step (a); (c) at least partially removing the solvent from the reaction mixture of step (b); and (d) further reacting the reaction mixture of step (c) with alkylene oxide at a given temperature until the average degree of alkoxylation of each NH group and each optional NH2 group, calculated as two NH groups, of the first polymer is from 2 to 40. The present invention also relates to a polymer composition obtainable from that process and the use of such a polymer composition. |
| US08507612B2 |
Aziridine crosslinking agents for acrylic adhesives
A crosslinkable, pre-adhesive composition is described comprising an acid-functional (meth)acrylate copolymer and an aziridine crosslinking agent, which when crosslinked provides a pressure-sensitive adhesive and pressure-sensitive adhesive articles. |
| US08507607B2 |
Biodegradable absorbent material and method of manufacture
Biodegradable graft copolymers derived from a carbohydrate and at least one α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acid derivative having superabsorbent properties are disclosed in addition to the substantially adiabatic polymerization process by which the graft copolymers are made. The methods disclosed can be carried out in a variety of currently available continuous commercial reactors. Polymerizations carried out with starch have surprisingly produced substantially quantitative yields of graft copolymer free of residual monomer produced as a moist copolymer. Product work-up typically involves an optional neutralization and drying. |
| US08507606B2 |
Biocomposite materials and methods for making the same
A particle (and a composition that includes a plurality of the particles) that includes at least one polypeptide molecule and at least one polymer covalently bound to the polypeptide molecule so as to form a polymer shell substantially encompassing the polypeptide molecule, wherein the particle does not define a dimension greater than about 1 μm. One example for making the particle includes modifying the polypeptide molecule to provide α, β-ethylenically unsaturated terminal functional groups, mixing the modified polypeptide molecule with a silicon-containing polymerizable compound, and subjecting the resulting mixture to conditions sufficient for polymerizing the polymerizable compound to form the particle. |
| US08507603B2 |
Solvent dispersion of composite resin and uses thereof
A solvent dispersion of a composite resin which comprises a solvent and a composite resin comprising a thermoplastic elastomer (A) and a polymer of copolymerizable monomers (B) comprising a monomer having an α,β-monoethylenically unsaturated group and other copolymerizable monomer(s), wherein the thermoplastic elastomer (A) is a propylene-based elastomer having a molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn) of not more than 3 as measured by gel permeation chromatography (GPC), and the copolymerizable monomers (B) include at least one monomer containing no functional groups; and uses of the dispersion. The dispersion can be used to provide a coating material, primer, adhesive, additive, binder, film, and primer for strippable paints and traffic paints, which have excellent adhesiveness to various materials. |
| US08507600B2 |
Polyolefin graft poly(meth)acrylate copolymer-based priming agent for polyolefin surfaces
The invention relates to a novel halogen-free and acid-free, readily soluble priming bonding agent for polyolefins, said agent containing (meth)acrylate-grafted, amorphous polyolefins. |
| US08507599B2 |
Golf ball layers based on ionomers made with polyalkenamer carriers
Golf balls containing a core having at least one layer and cover having at least one layer are provided. A thermoplastic ionomeric composition is used to form at least one layer of the ball. The composition is prepared by providing a masterbatch comprising cycloalkene (polyalkenamer) rubber and neutralizing agent and mixing the masterbatch with ethylene acid copolymer. The acid groups are neutralized to 30 weight percent or greater, preferably 50% or greater, and more preferably 70% or greater. The resulting ball has high resiliency and rebounding properties along with a soft feel. |
| US08507594B2 |
Flame retardant thermoplastic resin composition with improved compatibility
Disclosed herein is a flame retardant thermoplastic resin composition including a polycarbonate resin, a branched acrylic copolymer, and a flame retardant. The flame retardant thermoplastic resin composition can have good compatibility as well as good flame retardancy, scratch resistance, colorability and appearance without requiring the addition of a compatibilizer. |
| US08507592B2 |
Adhesive composition, adhesive film and wiring film using the same
An adhesive composition includes a phenoxy resin having a bisphenol S skeleton in a structure and 10 to 100 parts by weight of a maleimide compound based on 100 parts by weight of the phenoxy resin. The maleimide compound has a plurality of maleimide groups in a structure and is at least one of a first maleimide compound having a melting temperature of 160° C. or lower and a gelling time at 200° C. of 180 to 350 seconds and a second maleimide compound having a melting temperature of 160° C. or lower and a gelling time at 250° C. of 110 to 150 seconds. A heat resistant adhesive film may be formed by coating the adhesive composition on a substrate film, and a wiring film may have a conductor wiring layer put between such heat resistant adhesive films. |
| US08507588B2 |
PHBV/ground bone meal and pumice powder engineered biobased composite materials for construction
A composite material includes a matrix composed of a polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) polymer and a filler composed of particles dispersed in the matrix. The particles are composed of naturally-derived materials (e.g., ground bone meal or pumice powder), have a microporous microstructure, have a low hygroscopic expansion, and are less than 1.0 mm in size. Preferably, the matrix and the filler together constitute 100% by weight of the composite material, and at most 30% by volume of the composite material is consumed by the filler. The composite material may take the form of an anaerobically biodegradable article of manufacture such as a building material a coating of a building material or other article. |
| US08507579B2 |
Aqueous coating compositions with de minimis volatile emissions
The present invention relates to an aqueous coating composition comprising a treated latex polymer dispersion with less than about 50 ppm of unreacted monomers. The latex polymer dispersion can be treated by various means, including stripping and chasing, to remove unreacted monomers from the dispersion. Unreacted monomers significantly contribute to paint odor. In an innovative aspect of the present invention, the synergistic combination of the treated latex dispersion with pigments and other low or zero-VOC additives results in an aqueous coating composition with de minimis levels of volatile emissions, low odor, and paint performance comparable to premium latex paints. |
| US08507576B2 |
Composition of at least one vinylidene chloride copolymer
Vinylidene chloride copolymer composition characterized in that it comprises: (A) at least one vinylidene chloride copolymer which is a copolymer composed of vinylidene chloride in an amount of at least 50 wt % and of at least one comonomer at least one of which is chosen from (meth)acrylic monomers corresponding to the general formula: CH2═CR1R2, in which R1 is chosen from hydrogen and the methyl radical and R2 is the —CO—R3 radical in which R3 is the —O—R4 radical with R4 chosen from the linear or branched alkyl radicals containing from 1 to 18 carbon atoms optionally bearing one or more —OH radicals, the epoxyalkyl radicals containing from 2 to 10 carbon atoms and the alkoxyalkyl radicals containing a total of 2 to 10 carbon atoms; (B) from 0.5 to 4 parts by weight, per 100 parts by weight of (A), of epoxidized soybean oil; (C) from 0.01 to 2 parts by weight, per 100 parts by weight of (A), of at least one fluoropolymer chosen from the amorphous fluoropolymers for which the glass transition temperature is less than or equal to 200° C. and the semi-crystalline fluoropolymers for which the melting point is less than or equal to 200° C.; and (D) at most 1 part by weight, per 100 parts by weight of (A), of at least one acid scavenger. Process for preparing said composition. Multilayer film comprising said composition and packaging or bag formed from this film. |
| US08507572B2 |
Functionalization of organic surfaces
The present invention relates to functionalizing a surface of an organic material. For example, surfaces of materials having C—H bonds, such as polymers having C—H bonds, can be functionalized. In certain embodiments, a heterobifunctional molecule having a photoactive anchor, a spacer, and a terminal functional group is applied to the surface of an organic material that contains one or more C—H bonds. The heterobifunctional molecule can be bound to any surface having C—H bonds as the photoactive anchor can react with C—H bonds upon irradiation. The terminal functional group has a “click” functionality which can be utilized to functionalize the surface of the organic material with any desired functionalizing moiety having the orthogonal click functionality. |
| US08507568B2 |
Suspension polymerization and foaming of water containing activated carbon-nano/microparticulate polymer composites
Synthesis of polystyrene and/or other thermoplastic polymers or polymer blends which, for example, contain activated carbon and/or bamboo carbon carrying a co-blowing agent such as water and/or at least one of 1-dimensional, 2-dimensional, and 3-dimensional nano/micro-materials in suspension polymerization without using the inverse emulsion process. CO2 or other blowing agent based foaming processes such as extrusion, batch foaming, and injection molding may then be carried out to produce polymer foams that have low density, high-R value, bimodal structures, good mechanical properties, and high fire retardance. |
| US08507566B2 |
Process for the preparation of synthesis gas
Process for the production of synthesis gas which involves the steps of: a) preparing a vapor phase mixture comprising steam and at least one hydrocarbon or oxygenated hydrocarbon with an atmospheric boiling point in the range of −50 to 370° C., said vapor phase mixture having a H2O/C molar ratio at least 2, and b) catalytically or non-catalytically converting the vapor phase mixture into synthesis gas, which process is characterized in that the oxygen is only added in bonded form. |
| US08507565B2 |
Polyorganosiloxane demulsifier compositions and methods of making same
The invention relates to a method for separating emulsions of oil and water, the method comprising incorporating a demulsifying-effective amount of a polyorganosiloxane demulsifier into an emulsion comprising an oil phase and an aqueous phase. The invention also relates to compositions containing polyorganosiloxane demulsifier and the water and oil phases of an emulsion. |
| US08507562B2 |
Synthesis of (1)-beta-elemene, (-)-beta-elemenal, (-)-beta-elemenol, (-)-beta-elemene fluoride and their analogues, intermediates, and composition and uses thereof
The present invention provides convergent processes for preparing (−)-beta-elemene, (−)-beta-elemenal, (−)-beta-elemenol, and (−)-beta-elemene fluoride and analogues thereof. Also provided are intermediates useful for preparing (−)-beta-elemene. The present invention further provides novel compositions based on analogues of (−)-beta-elemene, (−)-beta-elemenal, (−)-beta-elemenol, (−)-beta-elemene fluoride and methods for the treatment of cancer, such as brain tumor, lung cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, ovarian cancer, colorectal cancer, gastric intestional cancer, and stomach cancer.The inventors propose a combination therapy using 1) one or more of the following anti-cancer agents: including, but not limited to, Cisplatin, 5-FU, Taxol, Taxol derivatives, and any anti-cancer agent, and 2) one or more of the following (−)-beta-elemene and its analogs, including (−)-beta-elemene, (−)-beta-elemenal, (−)-beta-elemenol, (−)-beta-elemene fluoride, and their analogs, and (−)-beta-elemene's intermediate in its chemical synthesis, for the treatment of cancer, especially for the treatment of brain tumor, lung cancer, ovarian cancer, bladder cancer, cervical cancer, colon cancer, breast cancer, and prostate cancer. |
| US08507561B2 |
Desensitizing drug product
Desensitizing drug products, methods of making desensitizing drug products, and methods of using desensitizing drug products including delivery of desensitizing drug products. In one embodiment, the desensitizing drug products are male genital desensitizers that comprise one or anesthetic agents and one or more melting point depressing agents. |
| US08507553B2 |
Benzofuran type derivatives, a composition comprising the same for treating or preventing cognitive dysfunction and the use thereof
The present invention relates to the novel benzofuran derivatives, the preparation thereof and the composition comprising the same. The benzofuran derivatives of the present invention showed potent inhibiting activity of beta-amyloid aggregation and cell cytotoxicity resulting in stimulating the proliferation of neuronal cells as well as recovering activity of memory learning injury caused by neuronal cell injury using transformed animal model with beta-amyloid precursor gene, therefore the compounds can be useful in treating or preventing cognitive function disorder. |