Document Document Title
US08564918B2 Pass gate off isolation
This document discusses methods and apparatus for preventing or reducing sub-threshold pass gate leakage. In an example, an apparatus can include a pass gate configured to electrically couple a first node with a second node in a first state and to electrically isolate the first node from the second node in a second state, control logic configured to control the pass gate, wherein the control logic includes a supply rail, and an over-voltage circuit configured to compare voltages received at a plurality of input nodes and to couple an output to an input node a highest voltage. In an example, the output of over-voltage circuit can be selectively coupled to the supply rail.
US08564916B2 Photovoltaic array ground fault detection method for utility-scale grounded solar electric power generating systems
Various methods and apparatus are described for a photovoltaic system. In an embodiment, a hybrid grounding circuit as well as a ground fault monitoring circuit are in the inverter circuitry with its switching devices that generate three-phase Alternating Current (AC) voltage. The three-phase AC voltage is supplied to a utility power grid interface transformer, where a primary-side common node of the Utility Power grid interface transformer is connected to Earth ground. Each inverter has 1) its own set of isolation contacts to connect as well as isolate this particular inverter from the utility grid interface transformer, and 2) control components in the ground fault monitoring circuit for controlling operation of the isolation contacts based off a presence of the ground fault detected by the ground fault monitor circuit for that inverter. The inverter circuit receives a DC voltage supplied from its own set of ungrounded Concentrated PhotoVoltaic modules.
US08564913B2 Driving device for semiconductor element
A driving device for driving a semiconductor element can include a plurality of protection circuits that detect information necessary for performing protection operation for semiconductor elements that include a power conversion apparatus, a pulse signal generation circuit that sets a pulse sequence signal with a pulse width differently for each of the protection circuits and outputs a pulse sequence signal corresponding to the protection circuit that has been first detected a need for protection operation. The device can also include an alarm signal forming circuit that forms an alarm signal by ON-OFF control of a switching element and externally outputs the alarm signal, and a protection operation state discrimination circuit that discriminates existence of a protection operation state based on the alarm signal from the alarm signal forming circuit, and an alarm control circuit that delivers the pulse sequence signal outputted from the pulse signal generation circuit.
US08564911B2 Magneto-resistive effect element having spacer layer including gallium oxide layer with metal element
A magneto-resistive effect (MR) element includes: first and second magnetic layers in which a relative angle formed by magnetization directions changes according to an external magnetic field; and a spacer layer positioned between the first magnetic layer and the second magnetic layer. The spacer layer includes a main spacer layer composed of gallium oxide as a primary component and containing at least one metal element selected from a group of magnesium, zinc, indium and aluminum.
US08564909B1 Multilayer bond pads for hard disk drive suspensions
A method is presented for creating multilayer bond pads for bonding a disk drive suspension circuit to a read-write head slider. The multilayer bond pads eliminate the need for vias to transition signals between metallization layers within a suspension circuit. The method includes the steps of forming an aperture through an insulating material that has a metalized first side, depositing a second metal layer on the second side and within the aperture, the second metal layer forming an electrical contact with the first metal layer, selectively removing portions of the second metal layer within the aperture and corresponding adjacent portions of the first metal layer thereby dividing the second metal layer and respectively adjacent portions of the first metal layer into a plurality of electrically separated circuit bond pads, each bond pad including respective portions of the first metal layer and respectively adjacent portions of the second metal layer.
US08564907B2 Position determining member to align a magnetic tape cartridge in a magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus
A magnetic tape cartridge includes a cartridge case, a pair of cylindrical hubs rotatably provided in the cartridge case, and a magnetic tape laid between the hubs and wound around outer peripheries of the hubs. Each of the hubs has an inner diameter portion provided with a height-position determining member. The height-position determining member determines a height position of the hub in the magnetic tape cartridge by contacting a driving shaft inserted in the hub when the magnetic tape cartridge is mounted in a magnetic recording and reproducing apparatus.
US08564905B1 Thin-film magnetic head and method of making where the head includes an antireflection film covering a leading shield
A thin-film magnetic head has a high write performance because its shape is smooth without roughness. The thin-film magnetic head includes a slider substrate, a write element and an antireflection film. The slider substrate has an air bearing surface at one side and supports a first support layer. The first support layer has a leading shield, and the leading shield has a low-level flat part, a slope part and a high-level flat part continuously arranged at one side in the recited order toward the air bearing surface. The antireflection film entirely covers the low-level flat part, the slope part and the high-level flat part of the leading shield. The write element has a recording magnetic pole film, and the recording magnetic pole film is formed above the antireflection film.
US08564904B2 Magnetic head with stacked magnetic layers, magnetic head assembly, and magnetic recording/reproducing apparatus
According to one embodiment, a magnetic head includes a reproducing section. The reproducing section detects a medium magnetic field recorded in a magnetic recording medium. The reproducing section includes a stacked film and a magnetic field application unit. The stacked film includes a first magnetization layer and a second magnetization layer. The first magnetization layer has a perpendicular magnetic anisotropy. A magnetization of the first magnetization layer being is fixed. The second magnetization layer is stacked with the first magnetization layer and oscillates. The magnetic field application unit is stacked with the stacked film and applies a bias magnetic field having a component along the first axis to the stacked film. A resistance of the stacked film changes in accordance with the medium magnetic field when a current not less than a value at which the second magnetization layer oscillates is passed.
US08564898B2 Magnetic disk drive and control method
According to one embodiment, a magnetic disk device includes: a magnetic disk having data spiral tracks extending from an outer circumference towards an inner circumference or from an inner circumference towards an outer circumference; a head configured to read data recorded in the data tracks of the magnetic disk that is rotating and to write data to the data tracks; and a controller configured to control the head to follow a predetermined data track in units obtained by subtracting a seek time required for the head to seek the predetermined data track from a rotation period.
US08564896B2 Compact imaging device
The subject matter disclosed herein relates to an imaging device having a small form factor.
US08564892B2 Lens barrel with four symmetric and parallel contact points
A lens barrel includes a lens frame, a guide shaft, a lead screw, a nut, and a biasing spring. The guide shaft is inserted into the lens frame. The nut is threaded onto the lead screw. The biasing member biases the lens frame toward the nut. The lens frame includes a first bearing component having a first insertion hole and a second bearing component having a second insertion hole. The guide shaft hits an inner peripheral face of the first insertion hole at a first and second contact point, and hits an inner peripheral face of the second insertion hole at a third and fourth contact point. The first and second contact points are disposed on opposing side of the third and fourth contact points using as a reference a parallel plane which extends along the direction of an optical axis and passes through a guide axis.
US08564891B2 Holding apparatus, optical apparatus, and telescope
The present invention provides a holding apparatus for holding an optical element with an edge whose thickness increases or decreases inwardly, the apparatus including a barrel having an internal diameter larger than an external diameter of the optical element, a support configured to support and position the optical element relative to the barrel via a first surface of the edge in a direction of an axis of the barrel, and a restriction device including a regulation member which faces a second surface of the edge opposite to the first surface in the direction of the axis, is apart from the second surface if an amount of decentering of the optical element is less than a predetermined amount within a tolerance, and contacts with the second surface if the amount of decentering reaches the predetermined amount, and configured to restrict decentering of the optical element.
US08564889B2 Zoom lens and photographing device having the same
A zoom lens and a photographing device including the zoom lens. The zoom lens includes: a first lens group having a negative refractive power; a second lens group having a positive refractive power; and a third lens group having a positive refractive power, which are sequentially arranged in a direction from an object side to an image side, wherein the first lens group comprises a first lens that is biconcave and is closest to the object side. Accordingly, a compact and low-priced zoom lens having a high magnification may be manufactured.
US08564888B2 Variable power optical system and image pickup apparatus having the same
A variable power optical system includes, in order from the object side, a first lens group having negative refractive power, a variable power group having positive refractive power, and a final lens group having positive refractive power. The variable power group is provided with, in order from the object side, a first lens element having positive refractive power, a second lens element, and a third lens element. The second lens element has a convex shape on the object side. The final lens group includes a positive lens. The variable power optical system satisfies the following conditions: 10≦VdLg≦45 −1.0<(R2a−R2b)/(R2a+R2b)<1.0 where VdLg is the Abbe number of the positive lens of the final lens group with respect to the d line, R2a is the curvature radius of the object-side surface of the second lens element, and R2b is the curvature radius of the image-side surface of the third lens element.
US08564887B2 Zoom lens and image pickup apparatus
A zoom lens comprising, in order from an object side to an image side, a first lens unit having a negative refractive power, a second lens unit having a positive refractive power, and a third lens unit having a positive refractive power. The second and third lens units are configured to move in an optical axis direction for a magnification variation, and the first lens unit is configured to move in the optical axis direction to reduce an image-plane fluctuation associated with the magnification variation. Expressions −0.83≦f1/f2≦−0.40 and −4.6≦f1/fw≦−2.5 T are satisfied where f1 is a focal length of the first lens unit, f2 is a focal length of the second lens unit, and fw is a focal length of the entire zoom lens at a wide angle end.
US08564877B2 Photonic bandgap fiber and fiber amplifier
A photonic bandgap fiber includes a core of a solid material; a first cladding provided around the core; a low-refractive-index region provided in a part of a core vicinity portion of the first cladding and whose average refractive index is lower than that of the core; and a periodic structure region that is arranged in another part of the core vicinity portion of the first cladding which is made of a great many high-refractive-index portions whose refractive index is higher than that of the first cladding arranged in a periodic structure. According to the invention, it is possible to provide a photonic bandgap fiber which, when arranged in a double-clad structure, enables pump light to efficiently pump signal light.
US08564874B2 Transmission mode switching device and 2D/3D switchable display apparatus
The present invention discloses a transmission mode switching device and a 2D/3D switchable display apparatus. The transmission mode switching device comprises a first substrate on which a first transparent electrode is configured, a second substrate on which a second transparent electrode is configured, and a transmission mode switching layer located between the first and second substrates and formed by materials with isotropic optical properties. The transmission mode switching layer is switched between a first transmission mode in which the direction of light propagation is not altered and a second transmission mode in which the direction of light propagation is altered in response to switching of the electric field applied between the first and second transparent electrodes. The transmission mode switching device of the present invention is suitable for multiple modes, with low power consumption.
US08564871B2 Electrochromic composition, a method of forming the electrochromic composition and an electrochromic apparatus
An electrochromic apparatus comprises a first electrode layer and a second electrode layer spaced from and disposed substantially parallel to the first electrode. An electrochromic layer is disposed between the first and second electrode layers. An electrolyte layer is disposed between the electrochromic layer and one of the electrode layers. The electrochromic layer comprises the dehydration reaction product of a hydrolyzed aromatic component. An electrochromic composition comprises an aromatic component having an aromatic core and at least two silicon-based groups pending from the aromatic core. The silicon-based groups have a silicon-bonded group selected from the group of hydrolyzable groups, hydrolyzates of hydrolyzable groups, and combinations thereof. The thickness of the electrochromic layer may be minimized while achieving desirable electrochromic properties that are typically characteristic of thicker electrochromic layers, thereby imparting the electrochromic apparatus with excellent versatility and flexibility.
US08564867B2 Fair token arbitration systems and methods
Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to arbitration systems and methods. In one embodiment, an arbitration system comprises a loop-shaped arbitration waveguide (602), a loop-shaped hungry waveguide (603), and a loop-shaped broadcast waveguide (604). The arbitration, hungry, and broadcast waveguides optically coupled to a home node and a number of requesting nodes. The arbitration waveguide transmits tokens injected by the home node. A token extracted by a requesting node grants the node access to a resource for the duration or length of the token. The hungry waveguide transmits light injected by the home node. A requesting node in a hungry state extracts the light from the hungry waveguide. The broadcast waveguide transmits light injected by the home node such that the light indicates to requesting nodes not in the hungry state to stop extracting tokens from the arbitration waveguide.
US08564866B2 Computer-generated hologram including splice planes for reconstructing a full-color image with high resolution and its fabrication method
A recording plane of a computer-generated hologram that is capable of reconstructing a full-color image and achieving a high resolution is divided by a multiplicity of parallel sections in the horizontal direction to define a multiplicity of areas. Amplitude information and phase information corresponding to different wavelengths which vary periodically in a direction traversing the multiplicity of areas, is recorded in the recording medium. Information about the same portion of the original image is recorded in individual points belonging to the same area, and information about another corresponding portion of the original image is recorded in individual points belonging to another area.
US08564864B2 Image recording medium, hologram replicating device and hologram replicating method
An image recording medium in which a refractive index modulation is recorded in a material in a layer such that, when the hologram recording medium is illuminated from a predetermined angle and a viewpoint is moved horizontally with respect to a normal line, a hologram image having continuous parallax in at least the horizontal direction is reproduced and that, when the viewpoint is moved in a direction with respect to the normal line different from the horizontal direction, another image that is different from and thus is not continuous with the hologram image is reproduced.
US08564859B2 Image reading apparatus and image forming apparatus
An image reading apparatus comprises: an image reading unit that includes a platen glass and a color contact image sensor configured by a line image sensor for reading red, a line image sensor for reading green, and a line image sensor for reading blue, the line image sensors being disposed in a sub-scanning direction of an original; and an automatic original feeder. In the image reading apparatus, the line image sensor for reading red and the line image sensor for reading green are disposed so that a line gap therebetween is two lines, and in a monochrome mode in which a color original is read and output as a monochrome image, the color original is read using the line image sensor for reading red and the line image sensor for reading green.
US08564855B2 Method for the three-dimensional digitization of books using terahertz radiation
A process for digitizing closed books without having to open them, of printed documents or manuscripts, bound or in batches, without having to separate them, using an imaging system of a three-dimensional object by Terahertz waves including acquiring by an THz acquisition subsystem a set of three-dimensional low-resolution images representative of this object and obtained by application of shifts orthogonal three-dimensional in translation according to which the object and the THz acquisition subsystem are relatively shifted relative to each other, a process in which, during these three-dimensional shifts, the amplitude of the relative shift in each of these three dimensions is less than the spatial resolution of the THz acquisition subsystem in each of these three dimensions and a three-dimensional super-resolution processing step is provided, capable of generating a super-resolved 3D image from a linear combination of 3D low-resolution images and an image-restoration step capable of generating a restored super-resolved 3D image from deconvolution by the point spread function calculated from the 3D super-resolution image.
US08564854B2 Light guide body, and lighting apparatus and document scanning apparatus having the same
Top surfaces and inclined surfaces of prisms on a side opposite to a light source are formed such that, in a region on a light source side, light traveling in a light guide body toward the side opposite to the light source is sequentially reflected by the top surfaces and the inclined surfaces of the side opposite to the light surface of the prisms and approaches a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the light guide body. The height of the prisms can be the lowest in the longitudinally central portion of the light guide body, and gradually increases toward the light source side and the side opposite to the light source, from the central portion.
US08564852B2 Complex apparatus
A complex apparatus includes a recording device including a recording unit that executes recording on a medium; an image reading device, provided so as to be freely openable/closable with respect to the upper portion of the recording device via a hinge portion, including an image reading unit that reads an image; a first contact portion, provided in the image reading device, that makes contact with a housing of the recording device when the image reading device is in a closed state; a second contact portion, provided in the housing of the recording device, that makes contact with the first contact portion when the image reading device is in a closed state; and a third contact portion, provided in an apparatus frame that holds the recording unit, that makes contact with the housing of the recording device at the lower area of the second contact portion.
US08564851B2 Scanner belt load and stretch compensation control system
Upper to lower assembly analog position sensors in a dual scanning system measure alignment offsets. A controller uses error signals from the position sensors to calculate actuator error profiles that are used in the next scan in the same direction, with different error profiles being used for forward and reverse scans. Since the alignment error profiles are repeatable for a given set of scanner conditions, the actuator controller anticipates what the error signal will be before each scanning assembly reaches a given position. An optimized error correction can be calculated based on the error profiles and actuator bandwidth without concerns regarding feedback loop speed, overshoot, and unstable control oscillations. An actuation system driven from error profiles can correct for alignment offsets by actively changing belt tensions at the offsetting drive pulleys and/or changing the position of sensor assemblies relative to the drive belt systems.
US08564846B2 Form processing apparatus, form processing method, and storage medium for updating definition data
A form processing apparatus includes a storing unit configured to store definition data for scanning and processing a first form in a storage area, an image input unit configured to scan a second form to obtain a form image, a position adjusting unit configured to adjust a position of a process region representing an entry field of a process item on the form image based on a relative position of the entry field of the corresponding process item on the first form and to associate the process region on the form image with definition information of the process item defined in the definition data, and an updating unit configured to update the definition information by changing a value indicating the position of the process region in the definition information to a value indicating the adjusted position of the process region.
US08564841B2 Switching controller system and method for improving image graininess during color management profile construction
A switching controller system and method for improving graininess in an image during a profile construction. A switching control strategy can be employed to construct an ICC destination profile by switching between a first controller (e.g., a 3-input 4-output controller) and a second controller (e.g., a 3-input 3-output controller) based on a color space region that requires a graininess minimization. The first controller dynamically modifies the CMYK values until reaching a subset of LAB values contained in the ICC profile. The second controller varies three colorants and holds a remaining colorant of the CMYK values until reaching the remaining LAB values in the ICC profile. Such an approach reduces the graininess and provides an improved smoothness with respect to the image during the ICC profile construction.
US08564838B2 Image processing apparatus and method for determining arrangement of dot count or recording material amount by error diffusion process
An image processing apparatus quantizes multi-level image data of n colors, where n≧2, by performing an error diffusion processing. The image processing apparatus includes: a dot arrangement determining unit that determines either one of an essential dot count and an essential recording material amount when the multi-level image data of n colors is converted into multi-level image data of m colors, where n>m≧1, by the error diffusion processing; and a color arrangement determining unit that performs the error diffusion processing on each color component of the multi-level image data of n colors, calculates either one of a dot count and a recording material amount for each color component, and determines an arrangement of either one of the dot count and the recording material amount for each color component within a range of a corresponding one of the essential dot count and the essential recording material amount determined by the dot arrangement determining unit.
US08564833B2 Control apparatus, controlling method, program and recording medium
A problem of the present invention is to provide a control apparatus, a controlling method, a program, and a recording medium which can print by using at least one or more special colors in addition to four colors of Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black. To solve the above problem, the control apparatus according to the present invention includes analyzing unit that provides command analysis for a CMYK plate and a clear toner plate, generating unit that generates image data of the CMYK plate based on a result of the command analysis by the analyzing unit, and embedding unit that embeds a clear toner attribute obtained by analyzing the clear toner plate in an attribute flag accompanying each of pixels of the image data of the CMYK plate, which is generated by the generating unit.
US08564832B2 Image operations using frame-based coordinate space transformations of image data in a digital imaging system
What is provided are a system and method which enables users to configure their respective imaging devices to receive image data in a first coordinate space and map the received data to a second coordinate space for subsequent processing. In such a manner, users or key operators can configure their imaging device to transform image data to any desired orientation for processing across any imaging device. Preset configuration in the imaging device can be setup at the factory or installed in the field for desired behavior. Furthermore, the preset configurations can be used to correct problems with jobs in the field. A simple user interface (UI) addition to the digital front end (DFE) describe below provides operator selection. The operator can emulate current customer workflow across a variety of imaging devices for both intra-brand and inter-brand reduces any impact on legacy work flows. Various embodiments are disclosed.
US08564824B2 System and printing method to generate printing data of an image to be printed over a plurality of recording pages
An image printing method of a host apparatus connected to an image forming apparatus, the method includes selecting an image to be successively printed over a plurality of recording pages, disposing the image to be successively printed on at least one of top, bottom, right and left positions of at least one of the plurality of recording pages, generating printing data of the image to be successively printed over the plurality of recording pages, and transmitting the printing data to the image forming apparatus.
US08564822B2 Printing control apparatus for determining print commands to be stored when printing plural copies of a document
Print commands are saved in increments of pages, based on usable storage capacity, at the time of printing processing of a first copy, so that page spacing to save the print commands is as uniform as possible. At the time of printing processing of the second copy, the stored print commands are reused and transferred to a printer, and the print commands not stored are generated again. The transferring and generating of the print commands are performed in parallel.
US08564817B2 Printing system and control method for printing system
In a case where a first identifier that is communicated between the printing apparatus and the information processing apparatus in order to specify a type of a printing medium that is used in the printing apparatus, and a second identifier unique to each of a plurality of types of printing media are set in both the printing apparatus and the information processing apparatus, the second identifier set in each of the information processing apparatus and the printing apparatus is obtained. Based on the second identifier set in each of the information processing apparatus and the printing apparatus, the first identifier set in each of the information processing apparatus and the printing apparatus is determined, such that the types of printing medium corresponding to the first identifier set in the information processing apparatus and the printing apparatus match, and a different first identifier is set regarding a printing medium of a different type.
US08564816B2 Image forming apparatus and method for controlling image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus equipped with a processing apparatus which requires a warm-up operation of a predetermined time and performs a predetermined processing to an image-formed sheet includes: a control section to specify whether each of a plurality of input jobs is a first job requiring the processing by the processing apparatus or a second job performing no processing by the processing apparatus, and to determine an execution order of the jobs so that a plurality of first jobs are successively executed when the first jobs are input in addition to the second job; and an image forming section to sequentially execute the jobs in accordance with the execution order of the jobs which is determined by the control section.
US08564814B2 Image-reading system, control device, control method, and computer readable medium
An image-reading system includes an image-reading device that includes: a first creating unit that creates, if a control device requests creation of a content of a settings screen, a content of a first settings screen for setting a scan condition supported by the available function of an image-reading unit expressed by stored function information; a generating unit that generates, when a scan condition is set on the first settings screen whose content is created by the first creating unit, first instruction data to read an image in accordance with the set scan condition; and a reading controller that controls the image-reading unit based on the generated first instruction data, so that the image-reading unit reads an image in accordance with the set scan condition.
US08564813B2 Distributed printing system, print control method for determining printing output locations according to content and estimated time information, and program
A printing system includes an order management server configured to receive printing orders placed from a plurality of order placement location apparatuses via a network and to distribute the received printing orders to the plurality of printing location apparatuses via the network. Each printing location apparatus includes a notification unit configured to notify a printing order estimated time. The order management server includes a storage unit configured to store a plurality of printing orders placed from the order placement location apparatuses, an updating unit configured to update printing order estimated time information from each printing location apparatus, a determination unit configured to determine a printing location apparatus or apparatuses to which to distribute the plurality of printing orders according to a content of each printing order and the printing order estimated time information, and a transfer unit configured to transfer the printing orders to the printing location apparatus or apparatuses determined by the determination unit.
US08564811B2 Method and apparatus for distributing a locked print job
A method, apparatus, and system for outputting a locked print job by a printing device connected to a client terminal over a network. The method includes receiving a request to distribute the locked print job to one or more users. The locked print job is generated in response to the request, and the locked print job and information identifying the one or more users is transmitted to the printing device over the network. The printing device receives the locked print job and the information identifying the one or more users transmitted by the client terminal, and stores the locked print job, the information identifying the one or more users, and authentication information. The authentication information is transmitted to the one or more users. The printing device outputs the locked print job, when the authentication information is entered into the printing device.
US08564810B2 Job management apparatus, job management method, and storage medium for using information of a post-processing apparatus to manage a print job
An MIS server sends, to a color MFP, a job ticket including information of post-processing apparatuses (in single or combined use), which have abilities to execute post-processing instructed by a print job, along with print contents data. Accordingly, even when the other post-processing apparatus than the apparatus that has been initially scheduled by the operator to be used is actually used, the job ticket needs to be not output again. Therefore, time and efforts required for the operator can be reduced.
US08564808B2 Systems and methods for processing of variable documents
A method of processing an electronic version of a variable document for a recipient includes the steps of receiving the electronic version of the variable document for the recipient and rasterizing the electronic version into one or more rasterized images, wherein each rasterized image is assigned a unique identifier. The method further includes the step of generating a run instance for the recipient, wherein the run instance includes the unique identifiers of the one or more rasterized images.
US08564807B2 Printing control program and program recording media
[Task] When data is printed to a printing device from a computer, the printing is approved or not approved according to the data contents.[Solution] A first control filter 23, which detects printing data output from a spooler 10, halts the printing task temporarily, and replicates the printing data, and a viewable image driver 20 which uses replicated printing data to create an image file, are provided. The image file is transmitted over a network 2 to a manager, and the manager views the image file and decides whether to perform printing on the printing device 4, and transmits a notification signal to this effect to the first control filter 23. The first control filter 23 performs printing control according to the notification signal from the manager.
US08564804B2 Information processing apparatus that does not transmit print job data when both encryption and saving in a printing apparatus are designated, and control method and medium therefor
Print job data is generated in accordance with a printing instruction from an application. When encryption of the print job data is designated, the generated print job data is encrypted, and the generated or encrypted print job data is output. When a printing apparatus serving as an output destination to which the encrypted print job data is output does not have a decryption function of decrypting the encrypted print job data, the output destination is changed to a decryption apparatus having the decryption function. When designation to save the print job data in the printing apparatus is detected in encryption, the print job is canceled.
US08564803B2 Image forming apparatus, image forming system, and information generating method
An image forming apparatus includes: plural processing units which execute plural processing functions that are different from each other; an execution-in-progress information acquiring unit which acquires execution-in-progress function information that is information about a first processing unit which is executing processing, of the plural processing units; a discrimination unit which discriminates a second processing unit that cannot execute processing when the first processing unit indicated by the execution-in-progress function information acquired by the execution-in-progress information acquiring unit is executing processing, from among the plural processing units; and an executability information generating unit which generates inexecutable function information that is information about the second processing unit, based on a result of determination by the discrimination unit.
US08564801B2 Network system, electronic device, and method for controlling electronic device in network system
In one embodiment, a network system according to the present invention is a network system in which a plurality of image forming apparatuses are communicably connected via a network, and an electronic device capable of independent operation is communicably connected to each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses. The electronic device includes a data input/output unit that sends/receives control data of the electronic device to/from the image forming apparatus to which the electronic device is connected, and the image forming apparatus includes a data communications unit that sends/receives the control data to/from the electronic device connected to the image forming apparatus, and a network communications unit that sends/receives the control data to/from another image forming apparatus via the network. Furthermore, the data communications unit and the network communications unit of each image forming apparatus send the control data of the electronic device to each of the other electronic devices via the network, the data input/output unit of each of the other electronic devices receives the control data, and each of the other electronic devices operates based on the received control data.
US08564796B2 Image processing method and apparatus for performing notification of the presence of a file whose metadata is not generated when performing retrieval processing
A first apparatus, which does not mount any metadata generation unit generating metadata used to specify image data from the image data, and a second apparatus, which mounts the metadata generation unit, are connected via a network in the image processing system. The first apparatus stores image data. The first apparatus requests the second apparatus to generate metadata associated with the stored image data, and the metadata generation unit mounted in the second apparatus generates metadata. The first apparatus requests the second apparatus to retrieve image data using the generated metadata, and a retrieval unit mounted in the second apparatus executes a high-level retrieval.
US08564793B2 Thin films measurement method and system
A method and system are provided for controlling processing of a structure. First measured data is provided being indicative of at least one of: a thickness (d2) of at least one layer (L2) of the structure W in at least selected sites of the structure prior to processing of the structure, and a surface profile of the structure prior to processing. An optical measurement is applied to at least the selected sites of the structure after processing and second measured data is generated being indicative of at least one of: a thickness of the processed structure (d′) and a surface profile of the processed structure. The second measured data is analyzed by interpreting it using the first measured data to determine a thickness (d′1 or d′2) of at least one layer of the processed structure. This determined thickness is indicative of the quality of processing.
US08564788B2 Optical imaging method and optical imaging apparatus
An optical imaging method is provided that can realize, at low cost, the extension of the imaging depth range. An optical imaging apparatus 400 is an apparatus that forms a tomographic image of an object using FD-OCT, and performs a scanning step, detection step and imaging step. In the scanning step, the object is scanned with a signal light while alternately changing the phase difference between the signal light and a reference light to two preset phase differences. In the detection step, interference light of the signal light passing through the object and the reference light is detected. In the imaging step, a tomographic image of the object is formed based on the detection results of a plurality of the interference lights sequentially obtained in the detection step according to the scanning.
US08564786B2 Phase based sensing
Interrogation of a phase based transducer is performed by comparing the state of the transducer at two points in time to determine the rate of change with time of the measurand represented as a phase change. The rate of change, or derivative of the phase change typically has a much smaller amplitude than the signal itself, and the derivative measurement can therefore be thought of as a low sensitivity measurement to be used instead of or in combination with the normal signal measurement having higher sensitivity. In this way, large amplitude signals which might otherwise be subject to overscaling effects can be measured more effectively. For a signal with the majority of its energy centered at approximately 800 Hz, for example, the derivative of that signal will typically be attenuated by 60 dB with a period between the two measurement times of 200 ns.
US08564778B1 Custom cosmetic blending machine
A spectrophotometer 300, webcam 302 or other instrument measures the color composition and texture of a person's face 400 or other body part. A computer system 301 includes a processor 501 and a non-transitory, non-signal computer readable medium 500 containing machine readable instructions that accept data from a spectrophotometer 300 or like instrument and uses a main executable program 502 and a subroutine 504 for color analysis to derive a mix of color to create a cosmetic product matching or enhancing the color composition and/or texture of the person's face or other body part. The computer system 301 and subroutine for color analysis create machine readable instructions 505 for the firmware of a cosmetic blending and dispensing machine 508. In order to properly mix and dispense high viscosity and air bubble riddled cosmetic material, a medical grade peristaltic pump 354 is used with triangle needle nozzles 374.
US08564777B1 System and method for compensating detector non-idealities
Compensating for imperfections in electromagnetic radiation detectors, and more particularly to a system and method for compensating for polarization state sensitivity and/or beam non-uniformity or the like with application in spectroscopic ellipsometers and polarimeters.
US08564775B2 Optical multiplexer/demultiplexer
An apparatus for optical spectrometry utilizes a simplified construction, reducing the number of independent optical elements needed while providing a sizeable dispersed spectrum. The apparatus provides a spectral intensity distribution of an input source wherein individual spectral components in the source can be measured and, in some embodiments, can be manipulated or filtered.
US08564774B2 Spectrometric investigation of heterogeneity
In one general aspect, a spectroscopic apparatus is disclosed for investigating heterogeneity of a sample area. The apparatus includes an image acquisition system operative to acquire images of a plurality of sub-areas in the sample area and a sub-area selection interface operative to receive a selection designating one of the sub-areas for which an image has been obtained. A spectrometer has a field of view and is operative to acquire a spectrum of at least part of one of the sub-areas in its field of view, and a positioning mechanism is responsive to the sub-area selection interface and operative to position the field of view of the spectrometer relative to the sample area based on a received selection.
US08564771B2 Calibration apparatus and calibration method
A calibration apparatus associates a pixel position and a wavelength of a spectrometer sensor. In calibrating the sensor, the calibration apparatus searches for a first pixel value corresponding to a bright line spectrum of incident light by a first search method based on the pixel value corresponding to the incident light acquired by the sensor and searches for a second pixel value corresponding to the bright line spectrum of the incident light by a second search method based on the pixel value corresponding to the incident light acquired by the sensor. The calibration apparatus associates either one of a first pixel position and a second pixel position with the wavelength of the bright line spectrum of the incident light. The calibration apparatus can appropriately acquire a correspondence relation between a detection position and a wavelength even if the correspondence relation has varied due to aging or changes in the temperature.
US08564770B1 System for in-situ detection of plant exposure to trichloroethylene (TCE)
A system detects a plant's exposure to trichloroethylene (TCE) through plant leaf imaging. White light impinging upon a plant's leaf interacts therewith to produce interacted light. A detector is positioned to detect at least one spectral band of the interacted light. A processor coupled to the detector performs comparisons between photonic energy of the interacted light at the one or more spectral bands thereof and reference data defining spectral responses indicative of leaf exposure to TCE. An output device coupled to the processor provides indications of the comparisons.
US08564767B2 Defect inspecting apparatus and defect inspecting method
The defect inspecting apparatus is capable of easily performing adjustment with a change of an elevation angle of illumination to a substrate to be inspected, while being low in cost. A plane parallel plate and a cylindrical lens supported by a lens holder are symmetrically disposed at the same tilt angle θ with respect to a horizontal plane. A shift in optical axis at a focal position of light (101) with the rotation of the cylindrical lens can be prevented from occurring. The light can be rotated with a motor and a belt by a rotating mechanism, while allowing the optical axes of the light to match each other at the same focal position. The lens holder and the rotating mechanism are connected to a vertically moving mechanism and moved along a guide of the vertically moving mechanism to thereby adjust the focal position of the cylindrical lens.
US08564764B2 Blood examination apparatus
This blood examination apparatus examines cancer cells mixed in an examination object which is flowing blood, and includes: a flow cell through which the examination object is made to flow; an imaging optical system which light output from the examination object in an examination region in the flow cell enters, the imaging optical system forming an image of the light on a first image plane; a first Fourier transformation optical system which optically two-dimensionally Fourier-transforms the image formed on the first image plane by the imaging optical system to form the Fourier-transformed image on a second image plane; a spatial light filter which selectively allows a portion in a certain range around an optical axis of the first Fourier transformation optical system of the image formed on the second image plane by the first Fourier transformation optical system to pass through; and a second Fourier transformation optical system which optically two-dimensionally Fourier-transforms the portion which has passed through the spatial light filter of the image formed on the second image plane by the first Fourier transformation optical system to form the Fourier-transformed image on a third image plane.
US08564760B2 Lithographic apparatus, device manufacturing method and a control system
A capillary passage is formed between a substrate holder and an edge structure. Along the capillary passage are arranged a plurality of electrodes which, when charged, become liquidphilic. The electrodes may be used to split droplets of liquid and pump the liquid along the capillary passage.
US08564754B2 Liquid crystal display
A liquid crystal display includes first and second gate lines and first and second data lines, on a first substrate, a first thin film transistor connected to the first gate and data lines and including a first source and drain electrode, a second thin film transistor connected to the second gate and data lines and including a second source and drain electrode, first and second pixel electrodes contacting a portion of the first and second drain electrodes, respectively, a passivation layer on the first and second pixel electrodes and the first and second thin film transistors, and a reference electrode on a passivation layer and overlapping the first pixel electrode and the second pixel electrode. The reference electrode includes a plurality of branch electrodes. The first thin film transistor is right of the first data line and the second thin film transistor is left of the second data line.
US08564751B2 Liquid crystal display device
A VA-mode liquid crystal display device having a high display quality is provided. A liquid crystal display device according to the present invention includes a vertical alignment type liquid crystal layer; a first substrate and a second substrate facing each other with the liquid crystal layer interposed therebetween; a first electrode provided in the first substrate on the liquid crystal layer side and a second electrode provided in the second substrate on the liquid crystal layer side; and a first alignment film provided between the first electrode and the liquid crystal layer and a second alignment film provided between the second electrode and the liquid crystal layer. The liquid crystal display device includes a plurality of pixel areas located in a matrix. Each of the plurality of pixel areas includes a first liquid crystal domain in which a tilt direction of liquid crystal molecules at the center and in the vicinity thereof in a layer plane and in a thickness direction of the liquid crystal layer when a voltage is applied between the first electrode and the second electrode is a predetermined first direction, a second liquid crystal domain in which such a tilt direction is a predetermined second direction, a third liquid crystal domain in which such a tilt direction is predetermined third direction and a fourth liquid crystal domain in which such a tilt direction is a predetermined fourth direction; a difference between any two among the first direction, the second direction, the third direction and the fourth direction is approximately equal to an integral multiple of 90 degrees.
US08564745B2 Liquid crystal display having more than one color portion within a pixel
A liquid crystal display includes a first substrate and a second substrate facing each other, a plurality of a signal line on the first substrate, a pixel electrode including a first pixel electrode and a second pixel electrode connected to the signal lines and separated from each other, and a liquid crystal layer between the first substrate and the second substrate and including a liquid crystal molecule. A voltage charged to the liquid crystal layer in a first region occupied by the first sub-pixel electrode, is lower than a voltage charged to the liquid crystal layer in a second region occupied by the second sub-pixel electrode. The second region and a portion of the first region display a first color, and a remaining portion of the first region displays the second color.
US08564742B2 LED backlight system for LCD displays
A LCD system including multiple light sources optically coupled through different light entry regions to at least one waveguide element positioned to backlight a LCD panel. A LCD system including multiple light sources coupled to light entry regions of two or more waveguides comprising a waveguide system positioned to backlight a LCD panel. Waveguides of various configurations and promoting even lighting of associated LCD panels are provided. Resulting LCD systems enable uniformly lit panels having diagonal measurements in excess of 12 to 14 inches, but the invention is not limited to panels of any particular size.
US08564740B2 Directional backlight with reduced crosstalk
A backlight suitable for use in an autostereoscopic display includes a light guide and a first and second light source assembly. The light guide has opposed first and second major surfaces, and opposed first and second side surfaces. The first and second light source assemblies are disposed to inject visible light into the light guide through the first and second side surfaces, respectively. Substantially all of the first side surface highly transmits a second light portion out of the light guide into air, the second light portion originating from the second light source assembly, and substantially all of the second side surface highly transmits a first light portion in a corresponding fashion. One or more first non-emitting surfaces of the first light source assembly are disposed at least partially between two light-emitting surfaces of the first light source assembly, and are adapted to substantially absorb visible light to reduce crosstalk.
US08564734B2 Resilient engaging member and liquid crystal display module having the same
The present invention discloses a resilient engaging member and a liquid crystal display (LCD) module having the same. The resilient engaging member comprises a leaf spring and a post. The leaf spring comprises connecting portions used to fix the leaf spring and stopping portions for engagement with the post. The post comprises a body used to fix the post and a mating portion for fixed engagement with the stopping portions. The LCD module includes a back plate, a panel, and a front frame installed in sequence, and a plurality of the resilient engaging members disposed between the back plate and the front frame and configured for connection therebetween. The resilient engaging member of the present invention has advantages of reliable connection, easy assembly, and fine resistance to any impact, etc. The LCD module adopting the resilient engaging member can significantly get rid of use of buffering material to reduce thickness of the module, and comply with the technical development trend of downsizing LCD television sets.
US08564729B2 Dual-sided display for vehicle rear-viewing system
A display system for a vehicle including a dual-sided display panel pivotably mounted to the interior ceiling of the vehicle. The dual-sided display panel displays an image from a media device to a rear-seat passenger of the vehicle and displays a different image to the driver on a second side of the display panel. The second side of the display panel is viewable by a driver of the vehicle through a rear-view mirror. A user-operated switch indicates what video source is displayed to the driver on the second side of the display panel. A first selectable video source is a camera mounted on the rear of the vehicle to capture rear-view images of the exterior behind the vehicle. A second selectable video source is a camera mounted in the rear passenger area of the vehicle to capture images of a rear-seat passenger.
US08564726B2 Standard color referencing panel system for cinematographing
The present invention relates to a standard color referencing panel system for cinematography that reproduces the original colors of captured images. The standard color referencing panel system for cinematography includes a memory that stores scene display content and standard color display content of an object to be captured; an input unit that allows a user to turn on a power switch and an image capture start switch; a controller that supplies power in response to a power switch on a signal received from the input unit, transmits control signals in response to an image capture start switch on the signal received from the input unit, and reads the scene display content and the standard color display content from the memory; and a display unit that is supplied with power from the controller to preheat a screen, and displays the scene display content and the standard color display content on the screen in response to the control signals transmitted from the controller. According to the above-mentioned structure, it is possible to accurately and easily correct the colors of the captured image, and considerably reduce the time and cost required to correct the colors. As a result, it is possible to exactly reproduce the colors of the captured images and improve the quality of the images.
US08564723B2 Communication system, communication method, video output apparatus and video input apparatus
A communication system may includes a source device to output video contents and a sink device to input the video contents, connected to the source device using a control transmission channel and a video transmission channel through which data is transmitted. The source device may include a first control data I/O unit, a first video data output unit, a video data retention unit, a contents list retention unit, an index image data retention unit and a first control unit. The sink device may include a second control data I/O unit, a second video data input unit, a video processing unit, and a second control unit.
US08564721B1 Timeline alignment and coordination for closed-caption text using speech recognition transcripts
The addition of temporal positions to an inverted index allows for temporal queries in addition to phrase queries. Store additional binary data for each term instance in the word-level index to prepare for searching in response to time-based queries from a user is accomplished through the use of Lucene's binary payload feature where the payload structure is defined for use in such searches. The pre-defined payload fields consist of three integers, which account for 12 extra bytes that must be stored for each term instance. A content database on the Master/Administrator server node provides the indexes for search into content in response to user events, returning results in JSON format. The search results may then be used to locate and present content segments to a user containing both requested search term results and the time location and duration within a content asset where the search term(s) is found.
US08564718B2 Camera module and mobile terminal unit
A camera module of the present invention includes a wiring substrate having a connection pad, and on which an imaging device is mounted, on an upper surface side thereof, and a lens unit provided on the wiring substrate and equipped with a lens portion arranged over the imaging device, an actuator (voice coil motor) for driving the lens portion, and projected connection terminal protruding downward and connected to the actuator. The projected connection terminal of the lens unit is arranged on the connection pad of the wiring substrate, and the connection pad and the projected connection terminal are joined mutually by a conductive adhesive agent.
US08564714B2 Electronic camera that wirelessly transfers data, which includes a power save mode
An electronic camera comprises a wireless communication unit that performs wireless communication with a computer or a printer, and a power save mode changeover unit that changes over a power save mode to either an ON or an OFF state according to the operational state of the electronic camera, if the power save mode is changed over to ON by the power save mode changeover unit, the wireless communication unit stops its operation when radio waves are not being transmitted, and if the power save mode is changed over to OFF, the wireless communication unit operates in a standby state when radio waves are not being transmitted.
US08564711B2 Zoom lens and image pickup apparatus having the same
A zoom lens includes a first lens group of positive refractive power; a second lens group of negative power; a third lens group of positive power; a fourth lens group of negative power, and a fifth lens group of positive power arranged from the object side to the image side. At activation of variable power from the wide angle end to the telescopic end, the first, third, fourth and fifth lens groups moves so as to get closer to the object side or the image side at the telescopic end than at the wide angle end; and a gap between the first lens group and the second lens group increases; a gap between the second lens group and the third lens group decreases; a gap between the third lens group and the forth lens group increases; and a gap between the forth lens group and the fifth lens group increases.
US08564710B2 Photographing apparatus and photographing method for displaying information related to a subject
A digital camera includes: a display section displaying a photographing image obtained by photographing a subject; a signal processing and control section reading out information related to the subject and information related to surroundings of the subject from a database on the basis of position information and compass direction information about the digital camera; and a display control section selecting the information related to the subject according to the lens condition and performing control so as to display the selected information on the display section by superimposing the selected information on the photographing image.
US08564709B2 Image quality selecting method and digital camera
Selection candidates for number of imaging pixels and for an image compression rate are displayed in a two-dimensional arrangement on a setting screen for setting an image quality, and combinations of selectable number of image pixels and a compression rate can be presented to a user. An instruction for moving a cursor which displays a selected position on the screen is received, and a setting can be changed to a number of pixels and a compression rate which are pointed by the cursor after a position of the cursor is designated. More specifically, numbers of pixels to be selected are 2400×1800, 1280×960, and 640×480, and compression rates to be selected are Fine, Normal, and Basic. When the user selects the number of pixels, candidates of the selectable compression rate for the number of pixels are displayed. A number of photographable images and remaining time for recording a moving image which are calculated from a capacity of a storage medium are preferably displayed in combination in accordance with combinations of the number of pixels and the compression rate.
US08564702B2 Solid-state imaging apparatus and camera using the same
At least a solid-state imaging device and one or a plurality of bare ICs that are disposed on the back face or on the back face side of the solid-state imaging apparatus and serve as peripheral circuits. The bare ICs are sealed by a resin. A circuit board may be interposed between the solid-state imaging device and the bare ICs, or the solid-state imaging device and the ICs are directly bonded together. According to another aspect, IC chips and other parts as peripheral circuits of a solid-state imaging device are disposed on the inner surface, mainly the ceiling surface, of a light-shielding case. According to a further aspect, a solid-state imaging apparatus for photoelectrically converting, with an imaging device, an image formed by introducing imaging light into the inside of the apparatus is provided with a package having a dark space in itself and accommodating the imaging device in the dark space, and a pinhole for introducing imaging light into the dark space and forming an image of an imaging object on the imaging face of the imaging device.
US08564698B2 Correcting image generated by an image generating apparatus
An image correcting apparatus and method are disclosed to correct a smear vertical line on an image captured by a camera. The method for correcting an image comprising: detecting image data corresponding to a vertical line of a specific image and having hue values greater than a hue reference value; and correcting the detected image data.
US08564696B2 Image processing apparatus and method for controlling the same
Grain noise and scratches are applied to an input image as random noise to generate a combined image. When applying grain noise clipped from two-dimensional noise data to the input image, each time clipping is performed, a positional difference from a last clipping position is evaluated. When the positional difference is determined to be small, a current clipping position is changed. When applying scratches clipped from noise data of a plurality of patterns to an input image, when a condition for successively applying scratches for a predetermined time period is selected, a positional difference from a last pasting position is evaluated. When the positional difference is determined to be large, the application of scratches is invalidated.
US08564695B2 Method and system for repeated fixed pattern noise correction
Repeated Fixed Pattern Noise (FPN) in solid state image sensors for a digitally encoded image captured with a sensor is corrected by exploits the periodicity of FPN pattern. In this way FPN is compensated by using a repeating pattern that is associated with repeating blocks of layout.
US08564685B2 Video signal capturing apparatus, signal processing and control apparatus, and video signal capturing, video signal processing, and transferring system and method
A video signal transfer system including an imaging apparatus for capturing an object to be imaged and generating a consecutive plurality of picture data forming a moving image, selecting from the plurality of picture data picture data positioned in advance at predetermined intervals to generate a plurality of lines (series) of video signals, and transmitting the plurality of systems of video signal, and a signal processing apparatus having a plurality of signal processing circuits, outputting the plurality of lines of video signals received from the imaging apparatus to the plurality of signal processing circuits, and making them process the signals in parallel.
US08564679B2 Image processing apparatus, image processing method and program
An image processing apparatus includes: an object state detector detecting a state of an object in input images inputted in time series; an image-capturing controller controlling image-capturing of the input images in accordance with the detected state of an object; and an image combiner combining pixel values at corresponding pixel positions of the input images, and outputting the pixel values as an output image, the input images being subjected to image-capturing control by the image-capturing controller.
US08564677B2 Network camera and method for changing image sensor of same
A network camera includes a mainboard system and an audio/video capture system. The mainboard system includes a system-on-chip. The system-on-chip is configured for encoding video files captured by the network camera. The audio/video capture system includes an image sensor, a bus switch, and a voltage level switch. The bus switch is interconnected between the system-on-chip and the image sensor. The bus switch has an on state where the system-on-chip is electrically connected to the image sensor and an off state where the system-on-chip is not electrically connected to the image sensor. The voltage level switch is electrically connected to the system-on-chip, and has a high voltage level state and a low voltage level state. The system-on-chip is capable of sending instructions to turn the bus switch on or off according to the state of the voltage level switch.
US08564676B2 Semiconductor device with anti-shake control function
A semiconductor device with an anti-shake function includes a logic chip having a digital circuit which obtains a value for vibration of an apparatus based on a vibration detection signal supplied from a vibration detection element to generate a correction signal. The logic chip includes a correction signal processing unit which generates the correction signal, and a control signal output unit which outputs a vibration control signal in accordance with the correction signal to a vibration correction control unit which executes vibration correction control for an optical component in accordance with vibration. The correction signal processing unit includes a vibration computing unit which is capable of executing a plurality of stages of signal processing operations, by dedicated circuits, respectively, and which generates the correction signal from the vibration detection signal, and a central processing unit capable of executing desired computation processing to be performed by the vibration computing unit, and a signal obtained by executing all or a part of the computation processing to be performed by the dedicated circuits by the central processing unit is supplied as the correction signal to the control signal output unit.
US08564673B2 Information processing method and information processing apparatus for displaying anomalous pixel, and radiographic system
An information processing apparatus of the present invention includes an acquisition unit configured to acquire a predetermined image and an image after correction which corrected an anomalous pixel of the predetermined image, and a display control unit configured to display an image expanding a partial region of the predetermined image including the anomalous pixel and a pixel used for correcting the anomalous pixel, and the image after correction.
US08564671B2 Television camera and television camera control system
Provided is a television camera using a solid-state imaging device, wherein color signal adjustment between TV cameras can be performed easily and quickly without relying on the level of skill of an operator. The serial digital signal of a TV camera (a master) acting as the standard for color signal adjustment is directly input into another TV camera (a slave) that adjusts the color signal, and the image level of each channel of the slave is automatically adjusted in a manner such that the image level of each channel of the master corresponds with that of the slave.
US08564670B2 Camera calibration apparatus and method using parallelograms in image and multi-view control
Disclosed herein is a camera calibration apparatus. The camera calibration apparatus includes an image reception unit and a camera calibration unit. The image reception unit receives images, in which a same background is captured, from respective cameras placed at locations which are different from each other. The camera calibration unit calculates an entire matrix using canonic topographies for all parallelograms located on respective surfaces which are different from each other within each of the images, and calculates infinite hymnographies between the cameras using the entire matrix at the same time.
US08564662B2 Vehicle vision system
The present vehicle vision system enhances visibility internally and externally with respect to the vehicle. A vision system is provided which is configured to switch between a plurality of modes. The system further includes a far-field effect which alters the focal length of the display in the vision system so as to reduce driver eye strain during operation. The vision system may be incorporated into various locations throughout the vehicle (e.g., the vehicle overhead console).
US08564660B2 Characterizing dynamic regions of digital media data
A media analysis tool is provided for defining dynamic regions of a digital media segment. The dynamic regions may contain at least part of a visible feature of the segment. Correlation of the defined regions with external data quantifying attention of a subject viewing the segment to locations on the screen provides measures of interest level and attention to visible features in the segment. The dynamic regions may be defined in only some of the frames of a segment. The dynamic region may be interpolated or extrapolated for frames in which it is not explicitly defined.
US08564659B2 Flow line recognition system
According to one embodiment, the flow line recognition system includes a first device, a first recording unit, a second device, a second recording unit and a generation unit. The first device detects a position of a moving object in a monitoring area by laser scanning. The second device detects a position of the moving object in a specific area, which is a part of the monitoring area, more accurately than the first device. The generation unit generates flow line information indicative of a path of the moving object moving in the monitoring area, based on the moving object information for the monitoring area recorded in the first recording unit, and the moving object information for the specific area recorded in the second recording unit.
US08564657B2 Object motion detection system based on combining 3D warping techniques and a proper object motion detection
The invention proposes a method for detecting dynamic objects in the scene in a driver assistance system of a vehicle, comprising the steps of: feeding signals from sensors (internal sensors, 3D sensors, cameras) of the vehicle to the driver assistance system, generation of a surrounding model using 3D world positions based on the sensor signals and, combination of 3D Warping-based approaches and optical flow based approaches, whose gained novel key points are: a) Restriction of the search space of an optical flow method based on the computation results of the 3D warping method, b) Additionally, to a) also an optimal parameterization of the optical flow approach in terms of search direction, amplitude, etc., c) Refinement and verification of the detection results of one of the methods based on the computation results of the other method (if both approaches are running in parallel), storing the detected dynamic objects and their measured motion parameters for their use in, e.g. a collision avoidance or path planning system.
US08564655B2 Three-dimensional measurement method and three-dimensional measurement apparatus
Images of a work piece in which measurement object is restricted to a specific point or domain are taken by a camera which takes the image of the work piece from a front-view direction and a camera which takes the image from obliquely above, and a height of each measurement object region is measured. Each pixel of the front-view image used in measurement processing is virtually disposed in a three-dimensional coordinate system including x- and y-axes constituting a coordinate system of the image and a z-axis indicating the height, and a perspective transform is performed to produce a processing result image expressing measurement result. A measurement value is set as the z-coordinate at the pixel which is a height measurement object, and the z-coordinates of other pixels are set at other pixels. A mark for identifying a position and an auxiliary line indicating the height are set at measurement object points and measurement object region in the image.
US08564654B2 Image pick-up apparatus
An image pick-up apparatus includes: a color imager having a color filter formed on a light receiving surface thereof; a monochrome imager not having a color filter formed on a light receiving surface thereof; a light guiding unit for guiding, to the color imager and/or the monochrome imager, light originating from a subject; and an image formation unit for forming an image from a signal based on an output from the color imager and/or the monochrome imager.
US08564647B2 Color management of autostereoscopic 3D displays
Color correction of an autostereoscopic color display capable of displaying multiple views of one scene. Multiple viewing regions of the autostereoscopic color display are identified. The multiple viewing regions together comprise the whole of an operating viewing zone for the autostereoscopic color display. A respective plurality of color correction LUTs are constructed. At least one color correction LUT is constructed for each different viewing region. Color correction LUTs corresponding to current viewing regions are selected based on information regarding viewer location. The selected color correction LUTs are applied to the autostereoscopic color display.
US08564644B2 Method and apparatus for displaying and editing 3D imagery
Systems and methods are provided for viewing and displaying 3D imagery. In one implementation, a method of displaying 3D imagery comprises receiving layout data comprising data representing a first camera, the first camera being non-editable; generating a first pair of a left camera and a right camera from the layout data based on the first camera, wherein the left camera and the right camera are editable; retrieving, from an external memory, streaming geometry data corresponding to the layout data; and generating the 3D imagery using the first pair of the left camera and the right camera and the streaming geometry data.
US08564635B2 Optical scanner and image forming apparatus
An optical scanner includes a light source including light emitters, an aperture member collimating light beams from the light source, a deflector deflecting the light beams passing through the aperture member, and a scanning optical system condensing the deflected light beams onto a scanned surface to optically scan the surface in a main-scanning direction. The scanning optical system includes a resin scanning system having at least one resin scanning lens. At least one folding mirror/sheet glass is disposed between a scanning lens nearest to the deflector in the resin scanning system and the scanned surface. At least one scanning lens in the resin scanning system has an uneven birefringence distribution with respect to a sub-scanning direction. An optical conjugate image of the aperture member is formed between a lens surface nearest to the deflector in the resin scanning system and a lens surface nearest to the scanned surface with respect to the sub-scanning direction.
US08564631B2 Image erasing apparatus and control method for image erasing apparatus
An image erasing apparatus includes: a supply unit which supplies a recording medium; a collection unit which collects the recording medium supplied by the supply unit; plural carrying roller pairs which carry the recording medium supplied by the supply unit, toward the collection unit; a detection unit which acquires information about a metallic foreign matter adhering to the recording medium; a heating unit which heats the recording medium to a color erasing temperature of a developer or higher; and a carrying control unit which decelerates a rotation speed of the plural carrying roller pairs from a first speed to a second speed when the information about the metallic foreign matter is acquired by the detection unit.
US08564619B2 Electronic device and method for displaying a background setting together with icons and/or application windows on a display screen thereof
An electronic device is operable to display images on a display screen of the device's display. The images include at least one icon and at least one image to be used as a background setting for the display screen. The electronic device includes the display, at least one storage device, and a processing unit. The storage device(s) digitally stores the images and operating instructions for displaying the images. The processing device is operable in accordance with the operating instructions to: retrieve the images from the storage device, determine at least one portion of the background setting that is of higher importance than a remainder of the background setting to produce at least one high importance portion of the background setting, and instruct the display to display the background setting and the icons on the display screen such that the high importance portion(s) of the background setting is viewable.
US08564618B2 Adjusting the display orientation of an image on a mobile terminal
A method of displaying a first image on a mobile terminal, the method comprising: displaying a first image and a second image overlaid on the first image on a display unit of the mobile terminal; and changing the orientation of the first image and the second image according to a variation in the orientation of the mobile terminal.
US08564612B2 Deep pixel pipeline
In a pixel imaging method and system, pixel information is stored into backing stores in system memory of a computer. A graphics processing unit (GPU) composites the pixel information into a first assembly buffer that has a first color depth of at least greater than 8-bits per color component. The GPU dithers and filters the pixel information in the first assembly buffer into a second assembly buffer. The second assembly buffer has a second color depth that is different from the first color depth of the first assembly but is the same as the color depth of the computer's frame buffer. The GPU copies the pixel information from the second assembly buffer into the frame buffer (optionally modifying them such as, by filtering), and scan-out hardware outputs the pixel information in the frame buffer to a display of the computer.
US08564608B2 Display of visual images by fractional color gradient increments
Displaying visual images by fractional color gradient increments. Distances between adjacent pairs of color shades in a color gradient are scaled down to distances of which the largest is one. The scaled distances are converted into fractions. A largest common denominator of the fractions is determined. The fractions are converted into fractions having the largest common denominator. Numerators of the converted fractions are used to provide samples of the color gradient at intervals of the largest common denominator. A texture is created from the samples. A visual image is displayed on a visual display according to the texture.
US08564603B2 Apparatus for controlling memory device and related method
A method for controlling a memory device includes: categorizing a plurality of sub-memory units of the memory device into a first group of sub-memory units and a second group of sub-memory units; sequentially storing pixel data of a plurality of pixels being displayed on a first line of a display screen into the sub-memory units of the first group of sub-memory units; sequentially storing the pixel data of a plurality of pixels being displayed on a second line next to the first line of the display screen into the sub-memory units of the second group of sub-memory units; and, starting from a next but one sub-memory unit to the first selected sub-memory unit, sequentially storing the pixel data of a plurality of pixels being displayed on a third line next to the second line of the display screen into the sub-memory units of the first group of sub-memory units.
US08564598B2 Parallelogram unified primitive description for rasterization
In a graphics pipeline of a graphics processor, a method for a unified primitive description for rasterization. The method includes receiving a group of primitives from a graphics application, wherein the group includes different types of primitives and the types of primitives include line primitives, point primitives and triangle primitives. For each of the types of primitives, the method includes generating a corresponding parallelogram, wherein the parallelogram has four sides disposed along an x-axis and a y-axis, and computing an inside y-axis mid point and an outside y-axis mid point based on the four sides. The parallelogram is controlled to represent to each of the primitive types respectively by adjusting a location of the inside y-axis mid point or the outside y-axis mid point.
US08564595B1 Delivery of projections for rendering
A workflow for 3D content authoring, delivery, and rendering is facilitated based on pre-authored image projections to obtain improvements in authoring efficiency. Additionally, a content delivery platform centered on such pre-authored image projections provides a mechanism for significantly improving streaming efficiency for 3D worlds. Multiple images encode primary surface detail of 3D worlds in real-time applications. Examples of such projections include images that can be as rich as film frames, feature animation frames, high end digital renders, concept paintings, or any suitable combination thereof. An algorithm for improved image projection camera path trajectories, sampling selection, and blending may be implemented by various systems and methods to facilitate smooth transitions during movements of a player within a game set in the 3D space. In addition, a back-projection technique may be implemented by various systems and methods to propagate revisions of one or more projections.
US08564594B2 Similar shader search apparatus and method using image feature extraction
A similar shader search apparatus using image feature extraction includes: an image extraction unit configured to classify color, texture, pattern features of a 2D image, into a color feature set, a texture feature set, and a pattern feature set, numerically analyze the respective feature sets, and extract a feature value of the image; a shader extraction unit configured to analyze a predetermined stored shader, classify features having an effect upon color, texture, and pattern into a color feature set, a texture feature set, and a pattern feature set, numerically analyze the respective feature sets, and extract a feature value of the shader; and a distance function calculation unit configured to receive the image feature value and the shader feature value, calculate the similarity of color between the image and the shader, and calculate the similarity of texture between the image and the shader using the Euclidean distance function.
US08564592B2 Image processing apparatus and image processing method
This invention is directed to provide a technique for efficiently, optimally deciding the shape and number of meshes when performing mesh coding for an object having a gradation. This invention is also directed to provide a technique for setting representative points to minimize the mesh distortion. A mesh generation unit divides an object area into a plurality of meshes and obtains position information, gradient information, and color information for each vertex of a mesh. A mesh control unit decides unnecessary vertices based on the difference between color information of each vertex and color information in the object area that corresponds to the vertex. An optimization unit obtains position information, gradient information, and color information of necessary vertices to minimize the difference between color information of each necessary vertex other than the unnecessary vertices and color information at a position in the object area that corresponds to the necessary vertex.
US08564588B2 Interface apparatus and method thereof
Provided is an interface apparatus. The interface apparatus comprises a signal synthesizer, a connector, and a signal separator. The signal synthesizer outputs at least one of display signals, display control signals, and chip control signals. The connector includes a transmission line connected with the signal synthesizer and through which the display signals and the chip control signals are transmitted in common, and a transmission line through which the display control signals are transmitted. The signal separator separates the display signals and chip control signals from the signals transmitted through the transmission line through which the display signals and the chip control signals are transmitted in common.
US08564587B2 Organic light emitting diode display
An organic light emitting diode (OLED) display includes a display panel including data lines, scan lines crossing the data lines, and light emitting cells, which are arranged in a matrix form and each include an OLED, and a panel driving circuit, which reduces a reference voltage applied to an anode of the OLED to a ground level voltage in a sleep-out mode and adjusts the reference voltage at a voltage level greater than the ground level voltage. The reference voltage is held at a voltage level greater than the ground level voltage in a normal driving mode.
US08564585B2 Source driver and display device with protection unit
A source driver for driving a display panel and including a protection unit, a bias voltage generation unit and a buffer is provided. The protection unit detects a characteristic parameter of the source driver, and generates a switching signal according to a detection result. The bias voltage generation unit determines whether or not to provide a bias voltage according to the switching signal. The buffer is operated in the bias voltage so as to drive pixels in the display panel.
US08564584B2 Electrophoretic display and method of driving the same
An electrophoretic display with threshold voltage drift compensation functionality includes a gate driving circuit, a data driving circuit, a controller and a pixel array. The gate driving circuit provides plural gate signals according to a scan control signal. The data driving circuit provides plural data signals according to a data control signal. The controller is employed to provide the scan control signal and the data control signal. The pixel array is utilized for displaying images according to the gate signals and the data signals. Each of the gate signals includes a writing enable pulse for enabling write operations of the data signals during a writing period. And during a compensation period, each of the gate signals includes a compensation pulse for performing threshold voltage drift compensation operations on the data switches of the pixel array, and the data signals are set to hold a common voltage.
US08564581B2 Organic electroluminescent device having a light-receiving sensor for data correction
A display includes: a panel in which a plurality of pixels emitting light in response to a video signal are arranged; a light-receiving sensor outputting a light-reception signal in accordance with the light-emission of each pixel; calculation means for calculating correction data on the basis of the light-receiving signal; and drive control means for correcting the video signal on the basis of the correction data, wherein the light-receiving sensor is adhered to an outermost substrate constituting the panel by using a material with a refractive index which is equal to or smaller than that of the substrate.
US08564570B2 Optical touch apparatus and operating method thereof
An optical touch apparatus including an input interface, at least one sensing module, and a processing module is disclosed. The input interface includes at least one functional input key, and the position of the at least one functional input key disposed on the input interface corresponds to that of the at least one sensing module disposed on the surrounding of the input interface. The at least one sensing module generates a sensing result according to the condition that the at least one sensing module receives sensing lights. The processing module determines touch point position formed on the input interface according to the sensing result.
US08564568B2 Touch panel
A touch panel includes an infrared (“IR”) sensor and an IR source that supplies IR light to the infrared sensor. The IR sensor includes an absorbing layer and a PN junction layer disposed on the absorbing layer. The absorbing layer includes a material that selectively absorbs light having a wavelength in an infrared range. The PN junction layer includes a P-type organic material layer and an N-type organic material layer.
US08564567B2 Electrophoretic display device using photo sensor
The present disclosure relates to a touch-type electrophoretic display device using a photo sensor, and the construction thereof may be configured by including a display substrate including a switching element connected to a gate line and a data line intersected with the gate line, a pixel electrode electrically connected to the switching element, and a first and a second photo sensor elements having a different channel width and length, the first and the second photo sensor elements being connected to the gate line and the data line for sensing an amount of light; and an electrophoretic film including charged particles, the electrophoretic film being coupled to the display substrate.
US08564566B2 Input device using projector
An input device includes a base, a touchscreen, and a projector. The base defines a receiving slot. The touchscreen is secured to the base. The projector can be pivotally received in the receiving slot. The projector includes a holder and a lens. One end of the holder is pivotally secured to the base, and the lens is secured to the other end of the holder. The lens can project a keyboard image on the touchscreen to identify input locations.
US08564562B2 Electronic device with function of recognizing multi-touch inputs and method thereof
An electronic device with a function of recognizing multi-touch inputs includes a multi-touch display unit, an input unit receiving multi-touch inputs on the multi-touch display unit, a storage unit, and a processing unit. Each multi-touch input includes a plurality of touch points which forms a touch area. The storage unit stores a table which records a relationship between an area of the touch area of the multi-touch input and a function of the electronic device. The processing unit senses whether there is a multi-touch input on the display unit, computes the area of the touch area of the multi-touch input when there is a multi-touch input on the multi-touch display unit, and determines a function associated with the computed area in the table stored in the storage unit.
US08564559B2 Cover glass button for display of mobile device
A cover glass pressure-sensitive button for a mobile device is disclosed, a piece of pressure sensor is configured under peripheral of a cover glass for a display of a mobile device. The cover glass can be pressed like a button, and a signal is output from the pressure sensor to trigger a predetermined function for the mobile device when a pressure is applied on the cover glass. In another embodiment, a space is reserved either under the touch panel or under the LCD module. With this configuration, the pressure sensitivity of the cover glass increases because the pressure applied on the cover glass can be fully transferred onto the pressure sensor.
US08564557B2 Device and method for parallel-scanning differential touch detection
A method for parallel-scanning differential touch detection is disclosed herein. The method includes generating a plurality of first outputs by a differential unit according to a plurality of first inputs provided by a plurality of sensors of a touch panel in each scan of total i scans, herein, the kth first output in the jth scan of the total i scans is the (i*(k−1)+j)th output in the continuous first outputs, i≧2, j≧1, k≧1, and i, j, k are natural numbers. Wherein, the differential unit has a plurality of subtractors and the inputs of the subtractors are connected in series. By doing so, the noises between a touch panel and a display can be eliminated.
US08564552B2 Touchscreen electrode arrangement with varied proportionate density
A touchscreen includes an array of first electrode pairs and an array of second electrode pairs distributed across an active area of the touchscreen. The first and second electrode pairs may be configured in various snaking patterns to vary the proportion of first and second electrode pair density in a first direction across the touchscreen. The position of a touch can be determined by the proportion of densities of elements in the area of the touch, such as by measuring capacitive coupling of the drive elements.
US08564551B2 Input device for foldable display device and input method thereof
An input apparatus including an electronic pen and a terminal having a foldable display unit is provided. An electronic pen generates an ultrasonic signal and an infrared signal. A terminal detects the ultrasonic signal and the infrared signal and calculates coordinate information of the electronic pen based on the received ultrasonic signal and the infrared signal. The terminal determines coordinate information of the electronic pen with respect to the foldable display unit by measuring a folding angle of the foldable display unit.
US08564548B2 Systems and methods for using a digital palette to produce a digital document
A digital palette and a digital pen device are used to create or manipulate a digital document to provide complex information using features, such as graphical features selected from stencils, shapes, and connectors and possibly to apply one or more attributes to the digital document. The digital palette may have a custom layout. The features on the digital palette may be selected from a variety of sources, such as digital stencil libraries. The digital palette and digital document may be arranged on the same or different sheets of digital paper overlying one or more digital patterns. Information communicated from the digital palette to the digital document may be uploaded, processed, reviewed, changed and stored in a computer. Lastly, the digital document may be finalized and printed to incorporate all changes previously made using the digital palette, the digital pen device and the computer.
US08564546B1 Multiple touch resolve
An apparatus for and method of resolving multiple centroids from data received from a multi-touch sensor device are described.
US08564545B2 Method for controlling application program, electronic device thereof, and storage medium thereof
A method for controlling an application program, an electronic device thereof, and a recording medium thereof are provided. In the present method, when detecting at least one touch area on a touch screen of the electronic device, all touch points contained within each of the touch areas are obtained. Then, a unique typical coordinate value is determined according to a coordinate value of each of the touch points. Finally, an application program is controlled to execute a function relative to the typical coordinate value. Hence, the application program is controlled to execute the corresponding function by detecting the user operation on the touch screen so as to improve a convenience of operating the electronic device.
US08564544B2 Touch screen device, method, and graphical user interface for customizing display of content category icons
A computer-implemented method for use in conjunction with a computing device with a touch screen display comprises: detecting one or more finger contacts with the touch screen display, applying one or more heuristics to the one or more finger contacts to determine a command for the device, and processing the command. The one or more heuristics comprise: a heuristic for determining that the one or more finger contacts correspond to a one-dimensional vertical screen scrolling command, a heuristic for determining that the one or more finger contacts correspond to a two-dimensional screen translation command, and a heuristic for determining that the one or more finger contacts correspond to a command to transition from displaying a respective item in a set of items to displaying a next item in the set of items.
US08564542B2 Multi-touch detecting method for detecting locations of touched points on a touch panel
A multi-touch detecting method is adapted for detecting touched points on a touch panel that includes first and second conductive films. The first conductive film exhibits electric anisotropy, and has a lower resistivity in a first direction. The multi-touch detecting method includes: applying a first voltage to the first conductive film; applying a second voltage greater than the first voltage to the second conductive film; measuring sequentially voltages at different measuring points of the first conductive film; obtaining a first local maximum voltage, a second local maximum voltage and a local minimum voltage from the measured voltages; determining a first location of the touched points based on a location of the measuring point corresponding to the first local maximum voltage; and determining a second location of the touched points based on a location of the measuring point corresponding to the second local maximum voltage.
US08564540B2 Split keyboard and handles for mobile devices
Embodiments of the invention include split keyboard and handles adaptable for use with mobile devices. According to one embodiment, a mobile device is provided that includes a body, which houses a display, and a split keyboard configured as a first keypad half and a second keypad half. The first keypad half and the second keypad half are configured to separately extend and retract from the body. In addition, each keypad half may include a retractable handle.
US08564533B2 Image manipulation based on tracked eye movement
The disclosure relates to controlling and manipulating an image of an object on a display device based on tracked eye movements of an observer. When the object is displayed according to an initial view, the observer's eye movement is tracked and processed in order to determine the focus of the observer's attention or gaze on the image. Thereafter, the displayed image is modified to provide a better view of the part of the object in which the observer is most interested. This is accomplished by modifying at least one of the spatial positioning of the object within the viewing area, the angle of view of the object, and the viewing direction of the object.
US08564529B2 Method for driving liquid crystal display device
Image quality of a field-sequential liquid crystal display device is improved by increasing the frequency of input of an image signal. Among pixels arranged in matrix, image signals are concurrently supplied to pixels provided in a plurality of rows. Thus, the frequency of input of an image signal to each of the pixels of the liquid crystal display device can be increased. As a result, in the liquid crystal display device, display deterioration such as color break which is caused in a field-sequential liquid crystal display device can be suppressed and image quality can be improved.
US08564527B2 Temperature compensating arrangement for liquid crystal display
A circuit generates a reference voltage in inverse proportion to the variation in temperature to control the gate-on voltage for a gate line of a liquid crystal display so that the liquid crystal display may display an image without distortion.
US08564519B2 Operating method and display panel using the same
An operating method and a display panel are provided. The method Includes a number steps. A display panel is provided, and has a pixel element, the pixel element including an n-bit memory, n being a positive integer in accordance with image data. The pixel element is driven by using a k-th data voltage, k being smaller than 2n, the k-th data voltage ranging between a plurality of data voltages having absolute values in an increasing order. When k is odd, the k-th data voltage has one of positive and negative polarities. When k is even, the k-th data voltage has the other one of positive and negative polarities.
US08564511B2 Method and device for displaying an image on an organic light emitting display where a frame is divided into two groups of subframes
A method and a device for displaying an image on an Organic Light Emitting Display where a frame is divided into two groups of subframes are provided for flicker-free and very high level motion rendition. The first group of sub-frames and the at least second group of sub-frames comprise corresponding sub-frames and constitute each a complete image in a video frame and corresponding sub-frames of two groups of sub-frames have similar but not automatically the same duration. The data signal of a cell comprises plural independent elementary data signals wherein each of the elementary data signals is applied to the cell during a sub-frame and the gray scale level displayed by the cell during the respective group of sub-frames depends on the amplitude of the elementary data signals and the duration of the sub-frames.
US08564508B2 Pixel circuit, display device, driving method of pixel circuit, and driving method of display device
A display device including pixel circuits arranged in a form of a matrix, with the pixel circuits respectively including an electro-optical element, a drive transistor, a sampling transistor, and a capacitive element. The sampling transistor samples a signal from the signal line in the capacitive element. The drive transistor and the electro-optical element are arranged in series to form a current path between a power supply line and a ground line. The drive transistor is configured to control a driving current through the current path according to a signal potential stored in the capacitive element. Compensation for driving current dependence on a characteristic of the drive transistor is provided, with such compensation being based upon a current through the current path occurring before a light emission period.
US08564502B2 Distortion and perspective correction of vector projection display
A method to represent graphical images upon a transparent windscreen head up display of a vehicle describing an operational environment for the vehicle includes monitoring data describing critical information in the operational environment for the vehicle, monitoring a location of a viewpoint of an operator of the vehicle, determining a desired graphic to represent the critical information in a viewing space based upon the data and the viewpoint, transforming the desired graphic in the viewing space into a projected graphic in a projection space defined by the surface of the windscreen, transforming the projected graphic in the projection space into patterns of projected light in a projector space, and generating commands to a graphics projection system based upon the patterns of projected light.
US08564497B1 System and method for payload enclosure
A cylindrical-shaped enclosure having tapered ends. The enclosure includes a module having a radio disposed on a printed circuit board and an antenna connected to the PCB. The enclosure has a main piece coupled to a lower piece and to a top piece, an optionally a fourth piece coupled to the top piece. A mounting subsystem is mounted to the main piece and includes a hole configured to receive therethrough a wires that connect to the printed circuit board. The antenna is configured to rotate about an axis that extends along a longest dimension of the enclosure. The module includes a metal plate to which the antenna is directly mechanically and electrically coupled without any cable such that the wires lack any control signals for controlling the antenna. The top and/or lower pieces can house any combination of a camera, an environmental sensor, security equipment, or a lighting system.
US08564494B2 Lightweight dual band active electronically steered array
This invention pertains to a lightweight dual-band electronically steered phased array antenna having a multi-layer circuit for supplying DC and a ground plane to RF-on-flex subarrays. A dipole and two additional legs form a four-legged pyramid that stiffens the multi-layer circuit structure and serves as a bonding point to a radome surface. Two of the legs of the pyramid incorporate a low-band V dipole-radiating element. A third leg of the pyramid distributes RF energy to the subarrays via the multi-layer circuit. At the base of the pyramid is an open rectangular frame that accepts the insertion of the multi-layer circuit. An infrared laser transmitter distributes high and low band transmit/receive module control signals to an infrared detector on the opposite side of the subarrays.
US08564490B2 Antenna device and radar apparatus
The disclosure provides an antenna device, which includes a waveguide antenna having wall surfaces and for emitting a radio wave in a direction substantially perpendicular to an emission face that is one of wall surfaces of the waveguide antenna extending in an elongated direction of the waveguide antenna, a plate-shape two-dimensional opening slots for beam formation formed in the waveguide antenna on the emission face side, a power feed waveguide module arranged in the rear face of the waveguide antenna opposite from the emission face and for supplying electric power to the waveguide antenna, and a cylindrical radome having a substantially circular cross-section of a diameter that is substantially equal to a length of the emission face in a direction perpendicular to the long-side direction so that the waveguide antenna is contained in the radome so as to be arranged at substantially the center of the radome.
US08564485B2 Adjustable multiband antenna and methods
An adjustable multi-band planar antenna especially applicable in mobile terminals and a radio device. The adjusting circuit (430) of the antenna is galvanically connected to a point (X) of the radiator, where the circuit can affect the places of at least two operating bands. The adjusting circuit comprises a multi-pole switch (433), by which said radiator point can be connected to one of alternative transmission lines. For example, one of two transmission lines (434, 435) is open and another shorted. A discrete capacitor (C2) can be located between the separate conductor of the transmission line and an output pole of the switch as an additive-tuning element. The adjusting circuit further comprises a LC circuit (432) between the radiator (320) and the switch. Among other things, the lengths of the transmission lines, the values of the discrete components and the distance between the antenna short-circuit point (G) and the adjusting circuit connecting point (X) are then variables from the point of view of the antenna adjusting. Such values are calculated for these variables that each of the antenna operation bands separately shifts to a desired other place when the switch state is changed. The space required for the adjusting circuit is relatively small, and a relatively high efficiency is achieved for the antenna despite of the use of a switch.
US08564483B2 Antenna assembly with improved supporting device
An antenna assembly includes an antenna and a supporting portion. The antenna includes a radiating element, a grounding element and a connecting element connecting the radiating element and the grounding element. The supporting portion is located between the radiating element and the grounding element, and includes a base portion and a complementary portion assembled on the base portion. The complementary portion has an outer surface being flush with one of the surfaces of the base portion.
US08564470B2 Successive approximation analog-to-digital converter
A current input analog-to-digital converter and a corresponding current measurement circuit is disclosed. In accordance with one example of the invention, an analog-to-digital conversion circuit includes a register for storing a digital register value and a digital-to-analog converter that is configured to provide a reference current at a circuit node which is set in accordance to the digital register value. The electric potential of the input node is responsive to the reference current set. A comparator circuit is configured to compare the potential of the circuit node with at least one threshold, thus assessing whether the potential of the circuit node is at least approximately at a desired value. Control circuitry is responsive to the comparator circuit and is configured to adjust the digital register value stored in the register and to adjust the reference current until the comparator indicates that the potential of the circuit node does not deviate from the desired value.
US08564469B2 Pipelined analog digital convertor
A pipelined analog-to-digital converter includes a digital correction circuit configured to improve the complexity of a logic circuit for dividing a correction period and a no-correction period of a digital output. The pipelined analog-to-digital converter performs a logic correction operation via binary shifting at data error correction. Accordingly, although the resolution increases, it is possible to reduce the complexity and area of a logic circuit.
US08564468B2 Sequence arbiter for analog-to-digital conversions
An analog-to-digital converter device may include an input multiplexer circuit having analog input terminals configured to receive a respective plurality of analog input signals. The input multiplexer circuit may be responsive to a first select input. The device may also include a trigger multiplexer circuit having input terminals configured to receive respective triggering signals. The trigger multiplexer circuit may be responsive to a second select input. Analog-to-digital converter circuitry may be configured to convert the selected analog signal into a digital signal. A sequence arbiter may be coupled to the first and second select inputs and may have input terminals configured to receive a respective plurality of conversion sequence configuration signals. The sequence arbiter may be configured to manage each conversion sequence of the analog-to-digital converter circuitry based upon the relative conversion sequence configuration signal received, and control the conversion sequences.
US08564466B2 Analog input system, analog output system, and analog input/output system
To increase the number of analog inputs at low cost, an analog input system includes: one or more analog slave units each connected to a bus to which a CPU unit is connected, and each including an A/D-conversion device converting an analog value outputted by an external device into a first digital value, a buffer memory buffering a second digital value to be transferred to the CPU unit, and a nonvolatile storage device containing specific information of its own unit; and an analog master unit connected to the bus and including an operation section performing operation processing based on the specific information stored in the storage device with the first digital value being used as an input, to calculate the second digital value, the master unit performing on each of the slave input units the operation processing and processing of transferring the calculated second digital value to the buffer memory.
US08564464B2 Techniques for reducing correlated errors in multi-channel sampling systems
Techniques to reduce correlated errors in a multi-channel sampling system. A plurality of clock signals may be generated from a master clock signal, each with edges offset from each other. The offset clock signals may be distributed to a plurality of sampling devices. Each sampling device may capture a respective input signal according to its offset clock. In this manner, the sampling units may sample their inputs signals over a distributed window of time rather than sampling in response to a common clock edge. By distributing the switching operations performed by the sampling units, noise effects are likely to be reduced.
US08564460B2 Keyboard device and method of identifying a key operation
A keyboard device includes multiple key switches, a scan memory that temporarily stores a result obtained by scanning keyboard as scan data, a confirmed data memory that stores a confirmed key input, a first determination mechanism that determines whether the scan data stored in the scan memory indicates that multiple keys on a single scan line are on, a readout mechanism that reads out a data of a scan line immediately preceding the scan line that is currently scanned from the data memory, a second determination mechanism that compares the data stored in the scan memory with the readout data from the readout mechanism and determines whether a single detection line includes two keys that are on, and a key confirmation mechanism that determines a current sneak when the second mechanism detects that the single scan line includes two key switches that are on and confirms the key input.
US08564457B2 Method and a system for characterizing and counting violations of a threshold by an aircraft engine operating parameter
A method of characterizing and counting violations of a threshold by an operating parameter of an aircraft engine of an aircraft includes detecting, by the aircraft, a violation of the threshold by the operating parameter while the aircraft engine is in operation. The method also includes, on detecting the violation, automatically transmitting from the aircraft to a ground system a warning message about the violation. Further, the method includes, on the basis of the warning message, automatically determining a severity level for the violation. In addition, the method includes incrementing a counter representing a number of occasions the operating parameter of the aircraft engine has presented a violation corresponding to the severity level.
US08564451B2 Equipment and method for controlling a wireless communication terminal
A sensor pad (105) is adapted to be worn and operated by a user (100) to control a separate wireless communication terminal (103) carried by the user. The sensor pad includes a plurality of discrete sensors each operable to produce an indication signal indicating proximity of a user's finger to the sensor and a controller, responsive to receipt of indication signals from a plurality of the sensors, to produce a control signal for delivery to the wireless communication terminal to produce selection of a functional operation of the wireless communication terminal. Also described is a terminal for use with the sensor pad and also equipment and a method of operation.
US08564449B2 Open circuit wear sensor for use with a conductive wear counterface
A component including a surface subject to wear by an electrically conductive wear counterface (50). The component comprises a substrate (10); one or more material layers (32) overlying the substrate (10); a wear surface layer (16) overlying the one or more material layers (32); a first pair of spaced apart and electrically open wear sensor conductors (12/14) disposed in the substrate (10), in the one or more material layers (32), or in the wear surface layer (16); a first wear warning electrical circuit (68/69/70/74) for communicating with the first pair of conductors (12/14) for providing a first wear warning; and wherein when the wear counterface (50) has worn overlying layers, the wear counterface (50) interconnects the first pair of conductors (12/14) to activate the first wear warning circuit (68/69/70/74).
US08564445B2 System and methods for monitoring caregiver performance
Systems and methods for monitoring the performance of a caregiver are disclosed. The systems may be configured to monitor the movement of each subject in a network of subjects. One such system includes a plurality of strips adhered in spaced-apart relation on a mattress pad, upon which a subject is positioned. One or more transmitter is provided coupled to the plurality of strips. A processor is connected to the one or more transmitter. The processor is provided with operating software to record and report caregiver activity or both caregiver activity and subject activity.
US08564441B2 Methods and apparatus to visualize locations of radio frequency identification (RFID) tagged items
Methods and apparatus to visualize locations of radio frequency identification (RFID) tagged items are described. One example method includes receiving a request from a portable electronic device to access product information associated with an individual radio frequency identification (RFID) tagged item, determining a location of the product information in a database, transmitting the located product information to the portable electronic device for display thereon, receiving modified product information associated with the individual RFID tagged item from the portable electronic device, and storing the modified product information to the location of the product information in the database.
US08564438B2 Merchandise display security system including magnetic sensor
A merchandise display security system for displaying and protecting an item of merchandise having a movable or removable cover includes a sensor configured to be attached to the cover. The sensor may include a magnet assembly that produces a magnetic field defining a predetermined minimum strength when the sensor is attached to the cover and the cover is closed on the item of merchandise. A transducer detects the presence of the magnetic field, or alternatively, changes in the strength of the magnetic field and generates an electrical signal corresponding to the strength of the magnetic field, for example an output voltage. The transducer communicates the electrical signal to electronics that activate an alarm if the strength of the magnetic field is less than a predetermined minimum strength or greater than a predetermined maximum strength.
US08564435B2 Passive environmental sensing
Various sensors, systems, and methods for monitoring environmental conditions are provided. In one embodiment, among others, a passive sensor includes an antenna; a modulating circuit coupled to the antenna by a microstrip transmission line, the modulating circuit capable of modulating a backscattered signal; a sensing material disposed between the microstrip transmission line and a ground plane of the passive sensor, where an electrical property of at least a portion of the sensing material varies with the environmental condition; and where the modulated backscattered signal includes at least one of phase and amplitude information corresponding to the electrical property of the portion of the sensing material.
US08564432B2 System to monitor the ingestion of medicines
A system for monitoring ingestion of medicine (21) comprises forming a digestible radio frequency identification (RFID) tag (10). The RFID tag is attached to the medicine. The RFID tag and medicine are ingested. A signal from the RFID tag is monitored.
US08564428B2 Memorizing location of tires in TPMS and smart entry system
A vehicle system includes a plurality of tire sensors, a plurality of low frequency (“LF”) antennas and an ECU. Each tire sensor is mounted in a respective tire of the vehicle. Each LF antenna is mounted on the vehicle and is configured to transmit an LF field to wake up two tire sensors. The ECU is in communication with the tire sensors, via a receiver, and the LF antennas. The ECU is configured to receive identification signals from the respective tire sensors and to determine locations of the respective tire sensors based on which antenna woke up the tire sensor transmitting the respective identification signal and whether the respective identification signal matches other received identification signals. The ECU is further configured to store the identification signals in the memory with the identification signals being associated with the respective tire sensors that transmitted the identification signal.
US08564427B2 Method for attaching a flat-shaped battery and apparatus to be attached to a rotary portion
An apparatus to be attached to a rotary portion includes a substrate and a flat-shaped battery buried in resin. The substrate and the flat-shaped battery are connected to each other via a terminal in such a manner that one of a positive electrode can and a negative electrode can constituting the flat-shaped battery, the can having a smaller amount of deformation caused by bulging at a time of the expansion of the flat-shaped battery, is opposed to the substrate. A surface of the flat-shaped battery having a smaller amount of deformation is opposed to the substrate, and hence, adverse effects on the apparatus, such as the displacement of the terminal and the deformation of the substrate, can be reduced even when the flat-shaped battery expands.
US08564423B2 Collision severity based activation of a pedestrian protection device
A method and a system on a vehicle for activating a pedestrian protection device that has one or more sensors coupled to a fascia of the vehicle and activates the pedestrian protection device if the signal from a sensor is greater than a minimum threshold and less than a maximum threshold. Coupling the one or more sensors to the fascia improves sensitivity for detecting a collision with a pedestrian when compared to systems that do not couple the sensors to the fascia. Comparing the sensor signal to a minimum threshold and a maximum threshold helps avoid inappropriate or ineffective deployment of the pedestrian protection device. When multiple sensors are used, the location of the pedestrian collision on the fascia may be determined.
US08564421B2 Method and apparatus for generating an audio notification file
A method and apparatus for generating an audio notification file for a computing device are provided. A first audio file associated with a first mental state is selected as a first section of the audio notification file. The audio notification file enabled for storage in a memory. The audio notification file is further enabled for processing by a processing unit to control a speaker. A final state of the audio notification file is determined, the final state designated as a final section of the audio notification file, the final state associated with a second mental state. At least one intermediate section of the audio notification file is generated, between the first section and the second section, by morphing the first audio file to the final state by processing the first audio file using a digital signal processor.
US08564417B2 System and method for storing and retrieving equipment inspection and maintenance data
An inspection and maintenance data storage and retrieval system features memory buttons each mounted in association with an equipment item, with each memory button having a read-write memory and an associated unique identifier. Inspection and maintenance data relating to the equipment item is stored in a remote central database. A memory button probe is used in conjunction with a portable computer to write data to and to read data from the memory buttons' read-write memories. The portable computer transfers data from the memory button probe to the central database at the point of inspection or maintenance, and vice versa. Information relating to each inspection and maintenance task may be downloaded to the central database computer via the portable computer. The central database computer may be a network server providing authorized users with access to current maintenance and operational status information for the equipment items supported by the system.
US08564412B2 Method and apparatus to estimate the number of transponders in a field
A total number of transponders in an interrogation field is estimated or determined based on demodulated baseband direct and quadrature components from a plurality of collided responses from multiple transponders, including collided responses from which information encoded therein cannot be recovered, and would conventionally be discarded. A query or Q value may be set without an a priori knowledge of the actual number or even approximate number of transponders in the field of the interrogator or reader. Such may allow transponders to be quickly and efficiently singulated, for example in a single pass, and information read from and/or written to singulated transponders.
US08564409B2 Method and apparatus for operating server for RFID reader and method for operating RFID reader
A method and apparatus for operating a server for an RFID reader by using both an SNMP command language and an RM/RP command language, and a method for operating an RFID reader are provided. The method for operating a server for an RFID reader includes: generating a mapping table including an object of an RFID reader, a management target, and an object identifier (OID) which are mapped to each other; checking and configuring the object of the RFID reader by using an simple network management protocol (SNMP) command language; and checking and configuring the object of the RFID reader by using a reader management/reader protocol (RM/RP) command language.
US08564406B2 Pager with a touch-sensitive display screen and method for transmitting a message therefrom
An improved pager with a touch-sensitive display screen and method for transmitting a message therefrom is provided. Inputting a message onto the touch-sensitive display screen greatly facilitates sending a message from the pager and is more versatile than using navigation or soft keys to transmit built-in messages or using a small keyboard to type in messages. The pager of the preferred embodiments is operative to convert the inputted symbols into a text message and transmit the text message to a paging network. Because the pager transmits the content represented by the inputted symbols, the pager of the preferred embodiments is more versatile than pagers using ink-based systems, which merely transmit the image of the inputted symbol. If the pager is equipped with a browser application, the message from the pager can take the form of a request to a server located in a telecommunication network.
US08564403B2 Method, system, and apparatus for distributing electricity to electric vehicles, monitoring the distribution thereof, and/or controlling the distribution thereof
A method, system, and apparatus for distributing electricity to electric vehicles, monitoring the distribution thereof, and/or controlling the distribution thereof, provides various components to vehicle operators and station owners to track and control energy usage. Plug outlet devices are associated with a station. A coordinator element is configured to receive vehicle information and information about the station from one or more electric vehicles. The information is verified, stored, and/or aggregated for later display. In addition, the information can be used to determine whether or not to deny electrical charging service to a vehicle using a switch component.
US08564401B2 Airport security screening system and method
A system for performing airport security screening of canyon bags and other separately scanned carry-on items such as electronics. The system includes a number of airport divestment and luggage carts. Each of the carts includes a frame with a lower support for receiving carry-on luggage, and the frame further supports security bins for receiving separately scannable items (such as a computing device). The system includes a 3D scanner scanning items passed through a scanning tunnel. The system also includes a conveyance system engaging the carts and transporting the carts through the scanning tunnel for 3D scanning, with such scanning including the carry-on luggage and the separately scannable items in bins. Typically, the frame of each of the carts is formed of one or more non-metallic materials and is non-collapsible. Further, the carts may be oriented to be upright during transportation through the scanner.
US08564400B2 Communication protocol system and method for a distributed-architecture heating, ventilation and air conditioning network
The disclosure provides an HVAC data processing and communication network and a method of manufacturing the same. In an embodiment, the network includes a user interface and a system device. The user interface is configured to publish a privilege request message to a data bus. The system device is configured to receive messages via the data bus and to store configuration data in nonvolatile memory. The system device is further configured to enable a privileged operating mode not normally available to a user of the network in response to the privilege request message.
US08564399B2 Intrinsically safe vibration and condition monitoring system and the parts thereof
A vibration protection and condition monitoring system with true digital signal processing based design, with very limited analog based general signal conditioning and integrated specific sensor conditioning and sensor power supply options. In addition to the support for common Eddy Current Probe Systems (employing an external Driver), the device also supports direct connection of the Eddy Current Probe to the module, due to an built-in driver and linearization functionality. The system is a distributed system where the vibration protection and at least a part of the condition monitoring is in an intrinsically safe (IS) distributed unit located on or at the rotating machinery, even in hazardous areas.
US08564394B2 Power module and circuit board assembly thereof
A power module mounted on a system board comprises a printed circuit board having an extension part, at least one primary winding coil disposed on a first side of the extension part. The at least one primary winding coil is disposed at a primary side of the power module. The power module further comprises a PCB winding formed on the extension part at a secondary side of the power module, a first magnetic core assembly, and a connector. The first magnetic core assembly comprises a first magnetic part and a second magnetic part. The at least one primary winding coil and the extension part are enclosed between the first magnetic part and the second magnetic part.
US08564393B2 Coil component and method of manufacturing the same
A coil component 100 is provided with a substrate 11, a thin-film coil layer 12 provided on the substrate 11, first and second bump electrodes 13a, 13b provided on a surface of the thin-film coil layer 12, a first lead conductor 20 provided on the surface of the thin-film coil layer 12 together with the first and second bump electrodes 13a, 13b and formed integrally with the first bump electrode 13a, and an insulator layer 14 provided between the first bump electrode 13a and the second bump electrode 13b. The thin-film coil layer 12 contains a first spiral conductor 16 which is a plane coil pattern. The first bump electrode 13a is connected to an internal peripheral end of the first spiral conductor 16 via the first lead conductor 20. The second bump electrode 13b is connected to an external peripheral end of the first spiral conductor 16.
US08564392B1 Ignition coil
An ignition coil includes a central core, a primary winding, a spool, a secondary winding, and a case outward of the core, spool, primary winding, and secondary winding. The secondary winding is wound on the spool and includes a high voltage end. The ignition coil also includes a cup formed of a metal material in electrical communication with the high voltage end of the secondary winding and is configured to be contacted by a conductive connector that is suitable for connection to a spark plug. The cup includes a generally cylindrical first sidewall press fit with the case and defining a press fit area at the interface of the first sidewall and the case, a generally cylindrical second sidewall spaced radially from the first sidewall, and an annular space defined between the press fit area and the second sidewall.
US08564390B1 Tapered needle plug for bleed port on float operated pneumatic valve assembly
A float operated liquid level switch having a body, a float assembly, a switch magnet, and a needle plug. The float assembly may be pivotally attached to the body at a pivot axis. The float assembly may have a first end and a second end opposite the first end, where the pivot axis is located between the first end and the second end. The float assembly may further comprise a float attached to the first end and a float magnet attached to the second end, such that raising the float causes the float magnet to lower and lowering the float causes the float magnet to rise. The switch magnet may be responsive to movement of the float magnet, and the needle plug may be responsive to movement of the switch magnet.
US08564385B2 Coaxial concentric nonlinear transmission line
A radio frequency source includes a coaxial non-linear transmission line. The coaxial non-linear transmission line may include a closed, non-magnetic, cylindrical outer conductor defining a cavity therein; and a plurality of stages enclosed by the outer conductor. Each stage may then includes an axial field solenoid wound about the outer conductor; a non-magnetic, cylindrical inner conductor disposed within the cavity and coaxially aligned with the outer conductor; a plurality of cylindrical ferrite switch elements, each defining a respective bore through which the inner conductor runs; and a plurality of inner and outer cups coaxially aligned with the inner and outer conductors, each defining a respective bore through which the inner conductor runs.
US08564384B2 Variable resonator, tunable bandwidth filter, and electric circuit device
A variable resonator that comprises a loop line (902) to which two or more switches (903) are connected and N of reactance circuits (102) (N≧3), in which switches (903) are severally connected to different positions on the loop line (902), the other ends of the switches are severally connected to a ground conductor, and the switches are capable of switching electrical connection/non-connection between the ground conductor and the loop line (902), the reactance circuits (102) severally have the same reactance value, the loop line (902) has a circumference corresponding to one wavelength or integral multiple thereof at a resonance frequency corresponding to each reactance value of each reactance circuit, and the reactance circuits (102) are electrically connected to the loop line (902) as branching circuits along the circumference direction of the loop line (902) at equal electrical length intervals.
US08564383B2 Signal converter and high-frequency circuit module
A signal converter includes: a dielectric substrate; a first conductor layer disposed on one of opposite sides of the dielectric substrate, while including an input section receiving high-frequency signals inputted thereto; a second conductor layer disposed on the other of the opposite sides of the dielectric substrate; and plural first conducting sections penetrating the dielectric substrate for electrically connecting the first and second conductor layers, while forming a waveguide in the inside of the dielectric substrate with the first and second conductor layers. The first conductor layer is disposed on the dielectric substrate without occupying a separator section disposed on the dielectric substrate. The separator section includes first and second sections extend from the input section towards the waveguide. The first and second sections are separated away from each other for gradually increasing their interval in proportion to a distance away from the input section towards the waveguide.
US08564382B2 Miniaturized wide-band baluns for RF applications
A wide-band balun device includes a first metallization deposited over a substrate and oriented in a first coil. The first coil extends horizontally across the substrate while maintaining a substantially flat vertical profile. A second metallization is deposited over the substrate and oriented in a second coil. The second coil is magnetically coupled to the first coil and a portion of the second coil oriented interiorly of the first coil. A third metallization is deposited over the substrate and oriented in a third coil. The third coil is magnetically coupled to the first and second coils. A first portion of the third coil is oriented interiorly of the second coil. The third coil has a balanced port connected to the third coil between second and third portions of the third coil.
US08564380B2 Non-reciprocal circuit device and its central conductor assembly
A central conductor assembly for a non-reciprocal circuit device, at least a first central conductor constituting a first inductance element and a second central conductor constituting a second inductance element being integrally formed in a laminate comprising pluralities of magnetic layers, the first central conductor being formed by series-connecting first and second lines formed on a first main surface of the laminate to third lines formed in the laminate through via-holes, and the second central conductor being formed on the first main surface of the laminate such that it extends between the first and second lines and crosses the third lines via a magnetic layer.
US08564379B2 Device and method for testing a frequency-modulated clock generator
A method and a device are described for testing a frequency-modulated clock generator, the device including a cycle counting unit for counting clock cycles of a clock signal of the clock generator in multiple consecutive measuring periods, which are defined, in particular, by a measuring signal having a measuring frequency, and for outputting cycle count values, and including a comparator device for receiving and comparing the cycle count values with each other and for outputting at least one output signal as a function of the comparison. In particular, ascertained maximum and minimum values may be compared with each other.
US08564374B2 Oscillator calibration apparatus and oscillator calibration method
An oscillator calibration apparatus includes a counter, a comparator and an adjusting unit. The counter is utilized for receiving a first clock signal and a second clock signal, and utilizing the first clock signal to sample the second clock signal to generate at least one counting value, where the first clock signal is generated from a first oscillator, and the second clock signal is generated from a second oscillator different from the first oscillator; the comparator is coupled to the counter, and is utilized for comparing the counting value with a predetermined value to generate at least one calibration signal; and the adjusting unit is coupled to the comparator, and is utilized for adjusting a frequency of the second oscillator according to the calibration signal.
US08564373B2 Broadband power amplifier
The present invention relates to a power amplifier unit (30, 40, 50, 60a-60d, 70) comprising a power amplifier element (31, 41, 51, 71) and a matching unit (32, 42, 52, 72). The unit comprises an impedance matched MicroElectroMechanicalSystem (MEMS) switch element (33, 43, 53, 73) between said power amplifier element (31, 41, 51, 71) and said matching unit (32, 42, 52, 72).
US08564365B2 Wide input bit-rate, power efficient PWM decoder
A pulse width modulated (PWM) signal is received and, over a time interval of the PWM signal, a first count is incremented when the PWM signal is at a first level, and a second count is incremented when the PWM signal is at a second level. At the end of time interval the first count is compared to the second count and, based on the comparison, a decoded bit is generated. Optionally, incrementing the first count is by enabling a first oscillator that increments a first counter, and incrementing the second count is by enabling a second oscillator that increments a second counter.
US08564364B2 Countermeasure method and device for protecting against a fault injection attack by detection of a well voltage crossing a threshold
A method for detecting an attack in an electronic microcircuit comprises: forming the microcircuit in a substrate, forming in the substrate a first well electrically isolated from the substrate, by a second well and an embedded well, forming in the first and second wells a data processing circuit comprising a ground terminal formed in the first well and a power supply terminal formed in the second well, and activating a detection signal when a voltage at the ground or power supply terminal of the data processing circuit crosses a threshold voltage.
US08564361B2 Semiconductor device and method of controlling the same
A semiconductor device includes a regulator including an operational amplifier configured of a current mirror and generating the second voltage V2 from a first voltage V1; and a control circuit that generates the current control signal OVDR, makes a current that is flowed by the current mirror increase by a first transition of the current control signal OVDR, and makes the current that is flowed by the current mirror decrease by a second transition of the current control signal OVDR. The control circuit includes a slew-rate processing unit that makes a second slew rate of the current control signal OVDR related to the second transition be smaller than a first slew rate of the current control signal OVDR related to the first transition.
US08564360B2 Pad controlling apparatus
Disclosed herein is a pad controlling apparatus controlling current and voltage applied to a pad, the pad controlling apparatus including: a voltage drop unit dropping the voltage applied to the pad; a switching unit connected in parallel with the voltage drop unit; and a control unit comparing a level of the dropped voltage and first reference voltage with each other and turning on the switching unit on when the level of the dropped voltage is larger than the first reference voltage. According to the present invention, even though interrupt occurs from the outside, a chip may be normally operated.
US08564359B2 Method and system for controlling HS-NMOS power switches with slew-rate limitation
A method and system for limiting the slew rate of the output voltage of one or more high side (HS) NMOS power switches is disclosed. A circuit arrangement configured to control a first NMOS switch is described. The arrangement comprises voltage provisioning means configured to supply a gate voltage to a gate terminal of the first NMOS switch; current provisioning means configured to provide a current; a first control stage configured to provide and/or remove a connection between the gate terminal of the first NMOS switch and the voltage provisioning means, thereby switching the first NMOS switch to an on-state and/or an off-state, respectively; and a first feedback control link between an output terminal of the first NMOS switch and the current provisioning means configured to control the slew-rate of a voltage at the first output terminal.
US08564358B2 Integrator circuit with multiple time window functions
An integrator circuit with multiple time window functions for carrying out a plurality of integration operations in parallel, each integration operation being carried out in a coherent manner over a sequence of time windows including at least one such window. The circuit includes a plurality of integration paths each corresponding to an integration operation. The integration paths share a same voltage/current converter and a same first switching mechanism for switching a signal to be integrated at an input of the converter, each integration path further including at least one integration capacitor mounted in counter-reaction to a functional amplifier and receiving a resulting current via a second switching mechanism for selecting the path.
US08564355B2 Clock device
There is provided a clock device including: a clock circuit to generate a plurality of clock signals, the clock circuit including a reset part for resetting generation of the clock signals; and a peripheral circuit operating based on the clock signals generated from the clock circuit, the peripheral circuit including: an error detection part for detecting an error in a process performed in the peripheral circuit by using the clock signals, and a determination part for determining whether to reset the clock circuit, based on information of the error detected by the error detection part.
US08564340B2 Dual phase-locked loop circuit and method for controlling the same
A dual phase-locked loop (PLL) circuit includes a phase/frequency detector, a charge pump, a frequency tuning circuit and an N divider. The frequency tuning circuit includes a coarse-tuning circuit, for coarse-tuning an output frequency of the dual PLL circuit to approximate a target frequency; a fine-tuning circuit, for fine-tuning the output frequency of the dual PLL circuit to the target frequency; and a current control oscillator (CCO), for generating an output signal of the dual PLL circuit. The output frequency of the output signal is equal to the target frequency.
US08564339B2 Method and system for measuring amplitude and phase difference between two sinusoidal signals
A method and a system for measuring amplitude and phase difference between two sinusoidal signals, using an adaptive filter. The method generally comprises measuring a sample of an output signal of a system excited by a sample of a reference signal; using an adaptive filter and the sample of the reference signal to determine a and b coefficients that minimize a prediction error on the sample of the output signal, iteratively, and determining the amplitude and/or phase of the output of the system using the a and b coefficients.
US08564336B2 Clock frequency divider circuit and clock frequency division method
A clock frequency divider circuit 11 according to the present invention generates an output clock signal obtained by dividing a frequency of an input clock signal into N/S by masking (S-N) clock pulses from S clock pulses of the input clock signal based on a frequency division ratio defined as N/S. The clock frequency divider circuit 11 includes a mask control circuit that generates a mask signal in which a non-mask timing is preferentially assigned to a clock pulse at a timing at which no clock pulse exists in a clock signal used in a circuit Ai other than a target circuit Bi using the output clock signal among S clock pulses of the input clock signal, and a mask circuit that generates the output clock signal by masking a clock pulse of the input clock signal according to the mask signal generated by the mask control circuit.
US08564329B2 Semiconductor device and driving method thereof
It is an object of the invention to provide a digital circuit which can operate normally regardless of binary potentials of an input signal. A semiconductor device having a correcting unit and a logic unit wherein the correcting unit includes a capacitor, first and second switches, wherein the first electrode of the capacitor is connected to the input terminal and the second electrode of the capacitor is connected to the gate of the transistor in the logic circuit, wherein the first switch controls the connection between a gate and drain of the transistor and the second switch controls the potential to be supplied to the drain of the transistor is provided.
US08564328B2 High speed signaling system with adaptive transmit pre-emphasis
A high-speed signaling system with adaptive transmit pre-emphasis. A transmit circuit has a plurality of output drivers to output a first signal onto a signal path. A receive circuit is coupled to receive the first signal via the signal path and configured to generate an indication of whether the first signal exceeds a threshold level. A first threshold control circuit is coupled to receive the indication from the receive circuit and configured to adjust the threshold level according to whether the first signal exceeds the threshold level. A drive strength control circuit is coupled to receive the indication from the receive circuit and configured to adjust a drive strength of at least one output driver of the plurality of output drivers according to whether the first signal exceeds the threshold level.
US08564324B2 Monitoring of the activity of an electronic circuit
A method and a device for monitoring a digital signal, wherein a first P-channel MOS transistor is placed in degradation conditions of negative bias temperature instability type during periods when the signal to be monitored is in a first state; a first quantity representative of the saturation current of the first transistor is measured when the signal to be monitored switches to a second state; and a detection signal is switched when this first quantity exceeds a threshold.
US08564322B2 Receiver signal probing using a shared probe point
A device and method are disclosed wherein a receiver signal line within an integrated circuit may be selected for probing. In one embodiment, a plurality of signal pads and a test pad are provided on an external surface of an integrated circuit chip. A plurality of signal lines extends through the integrated circuit chip to the signal pads. A multiplexer on the integrated circuit chip is configured for individually selecting any of the signal lines. An amplifier on the integrated circuit chip amplifies a selected signal and communicates the amplified signal to an externally-accessible test pad to be probed.
US08564320B2 Connection device for quality testing of charge-coupled device modules
A connection device for connecting charge-coupled device (CCD) modules to test apparatuses to test the CCD modules includes a connection unit and a test unit. The connection unit includes a plurality of connection pins. The unit under test is electrically connected to the connection unit and the test apparatuses. When the connection pins are in contact with the CCD modules, the CCD modules are electrically connected to the test apparatuses through the connection unit and the test unit, such that the test apparatus receives electric signals generated by the CCD modules to enable quality testing of the CCD modules.
US08564319B2 Probe card for simultaneously testing multiple dies
In accordance with an embodiment, a probe card comprises a contact pad interface comprising front side contacts and back side contacts electrically coupled together. The front side contacts are arranged to simultaneously electrically couple respective bumps of a plurality of dies on a wafer, and the back side contacts are arranged to electrically couple respective contacts of a testing structure.
US08564315B2 Downhole corrosion monitoring
Apparatus and methods for measuring an effect of corrosion with a corrosion sensor. The apparatus includes at least a portion of a metal material configured to be disposed within a borehole and exposed to a fluid. The apparatus includes a sensor configured to measure an effect of corrosion of the at least portion of the metal material within the fluid.
US08564311B2 Sensing phase sequence to suppress single tone noise
A noise suppression method for a capacitance-to-voltage converter varies a sequence of sensing signal edges during a plurality capacitance measurements to produce a number of noise responses. The sensing signal edges are varied in a repetitive rising and falling edge pattern for each sequence. Three or more such sequences can be used, and the sequence with the highest noise is eliminated and the others are averaged. The noise suppression method can be implemented during calibration and then used for a number of normal acquisitions. The noise suppression method can be applied to capacitance-to-voltage converters having monitoring and integration phases.
US08564308B2 Signal acquisition system having reduced probe loading of a device under test
A signal acquisition system has a signal acquisition probe having probe tip circuitry coupled to a resistive center conductor signal cable. The resistive center conductor signal cable of the signal acquisition probe is coupled to a compensation system in a signal processing instrument via an input node and input circuitry in the signal processing instrument. The signal acquisition probe and the signal processing instrument have mismatched time constants at the input node with the compensation system having an input amplifier with feedback loop circuitry and a shunt pole-zero pair coupled to the input circuitry providing pole-zero pairs for maintaining flatness over the signal acquisition system frequency bandwidth.
US08564307B2 Arc fault detector with circuit interrupter
A method and apparatus are provided for detecting the occurrence of arcing of a conductor by monitoring the current on an AC power line.
US08564305B2 Discontinuous type layer-ID detector for 3D-IC and method of the same
A 3D-IC detector for each layer of a stacked device with N layer, includes a dividing-two circuit coupled to a (N−1) signal; a first comparator is coupled to the dividing-two circuit, wherein an input A is coupled to an initial layer number signal, an input B of the first comparator is coupled to an output of the dividing-two circuit; a second comparator is coupled to the initial layer number by an input A of the second comparator, and a num is coupled to an input B of the second comparator; a first Add/sub circuit is coupled to the num via an input A of the first Add/sub circuit, and coupled to the first comparator via an input B of the first Add/sub circuit, to the second comparator via an input +/− signal of the first Add/sub circuit; and a second Add/sub circuit coupled to the first comparator via an input A of the second Add/sub circuit, to the num via an input B of the second Add/sub circuit.
US08564303B2 Systems and methods for detecting anomalies in elongate members using electromagnetic back scatter
An anomaly on an elongate conductive member is detected by causing a source electromagnetic wave to propagate in a first direction along the elongate conductive member such that the source electromagnetic wave passes through the at least one anomaly. The anomaly causes a reflected electromagnetic wave to propagate in a second direction along the elongate conductive member. The second direction is opposite the first direction. The electric field of the reflected electromagnetic wave is sensed. The magnetic field of the reflected electromagnetic wave is sensed. A direction of propagation of the reflected electromagnetic wave is determined based on the electric field of the reflected electromagnetic wave and the magnetic field of the reflected electromagnetic wave.
US08564300B2 Method and apparatus for testing aircraft electrical systems
A method, and corresponding apparatus, for testing an aircraft control system is disclosed. The method includes simultaneously coupling a test device to a plurality of separate test points in an aircraft control system, selecting each test point individually such that the test device is enabled for electrical connection with the selected test point, conducting a test on the control system at each selected test point using the test device, detecting a signal or voltage at the selected test point, and indicating a result of the test at the selected test point to an operator.
US08564297B2 Stun device testing apparatus and methods
A method of testing an electric discharge stun device includes the steps of identifying a stun device to be tested and absorbing a discharge from the stun device into a tester. The discharge is characterized by a discharge characteristic that is then compared automatically to information such as (a) a previous corresponding characteristic associated with a previous discharge of the stun device or (b) a corresponding characteristic associated with a prior discharge of at least one other stun device. The characteristic can be a waveform, a peak voltage, duration, current, joule, and temperature.
US08564296B2 Systems and methods for remote electromagnetic exploration for mineral and energy resources
A method for measuring the resistivity of geologic formations is described. An electromagnetic field may be generated using at least one stationary long-range transmitter. The frequency of the electromagnetic field may be between and/or including the ULF/ELF range. At least one component of the electromagnetic field may be measured by land, marine, and/or airborne receiver. A conductivity distribution may be determined based on the at least one measured component. The determined conductivity distribution may be correlated with geological formations and/or hydrocarbon deposits.
US08564287B2 Magnetic field sensor
An MR sensor arrangement is integrated with an IC. A metal layer of the IC structure (e.g. CMOS) is patterned to define at least first and second contact regions. Metal connecting plugs are provided below the first and second contact regions of the metal layer for making contact to terminals of the integrated circuit. A magnetoresistive material layer is above the metal layer and separated by a dielectric layer. Second metal connecting plugs extend up from the metal layer to an MR sensor layer. The sensor layer is thus formed over the top of the layers of the IC structure.
US08564286B2 GMR sensors having reduced AMR effects
Embodiments related to giant magneto resistance (GMR) angle sensor layouts having reduced anisotropic magneto resistance (AMR) effects. Embodiments provide GMR angle sensor layouts that reduce or eliminate distortion related to AMR effects, can be more easily scaled up or down, and are more compact to use available surface area more efficiently.
US08564285B2 Magnetic field sensor with improved differentiation between a sensed magnetic field signal and a noise signal
A magnetic field sensor includes a Hall element configured to generate a Hall element output signal in response to a magnetic field, the Hall element output signal comprising a magnetic field signal component and an offset signal component. The magnetic field sensor also includes a Hall element modulation circuit coupled to receive the Hall element output signal and configured to generate a modulation circuit output signal. The Hall element modulation circuit is modulated with a modulation signal having a changing modulation frequency that changes between a minimum frequency and a maximum frequency.
US08564282B2 Angle sensor, angle sensor manufacturing method, and angle detection device using the angle sensor
There is provided an angle sensor and angle detection device of high output and high accuracy with a wide operating temperature range. First through eighth sensor units 511, 522, 523, 514, 531, 542, 543 and 534 are produced from spin valve magnetoresistive films that use a self-pinned type ferromagnetic pinned layer comprising two layers of ferromagnetic films that are strongly and anti-ferromagnetically coupled. The respective sensor units are produced via the formation and patterning of thin-films magnetized at angles that differ by 90°, and the formation of insulation films. By using, for the ferromagnetic films, CoFe and FeCo films that have similar Curie temperatures to make the difference in magnetization amount be zero, high immunity to external magnetic fields, a broad adaptive temperature range, and high output are realized.
US08564281B2 Noncontact measuring of the position of an object with magnetic flux
Noncontact measuring of positions of objects is achieved through measurements of parameters characterized by the distribution of an AC magnetic flux in the air gap between stationary and moveable portions defining a sensor magnetic circuit. A sensor head fixed relative to a stationary element includes a soft-magnetic core. A sensor target is fixed relative to a movable element, the soft-magnetic core and the sensor target separated by an air gap and defining a magnetic circuit. A coil around the soft-magnetic core is adapted to produce a magnetic flux in the magnetic circuit. A magnetic flux density sensor fixed relative to the sensor head resides in the gap between the soft-magnetic core and the sensor target and is configured to detect magnetic flux density in a portion of the gap. A controller in communication with the magnetic flux density sensor is configured to receive an output signal of the magnetic flux.
US08564280B2 Mechanical packaging and method for a single current sensor integrated into an electricity meter with a disconnect switch
An electricity meter comprises a single current sensor with a toroidal coil that has an inner bore extending substantially through the sensor. The meter also has two current conductors that form one of a pair of line-side blades of the meter. The electricity meter also has a disconnect switch with a pair of moveable contacts and a pair of fixed contacts. One of the pairs contacts is electrically connected to the current conductors. The other pair forms a respective load-side blade of the meter. One current conductor passes through the inner bore of the current sensor in a first direction relative to its line-side blade and the other current conductor passes through the inner bore of the current sensor in a substantially opposite direction relative to its line-side blade so that current passing through the conductors passes through the inner bore of the current sensor in a same direction.
US08564275B2 Reference voltage generator having a two transistor design
An improved voltage reference generator is provided. The voltage reference generator comprises: a first transistor having a gate electrode biased to place the first transistor in a weak inversion mode; and a second transistor connected in series with said first transistor and having a gate electrode biased to place the second transistor in a weak inversion mode, where the threshold voltage of the first transistor is smaller than the threshold voltage of the second transistor and the gate electrode of the second transistor is electrically coupled to a drain electrode of the second transistor and the source electrode of the first transistor to form an output for a reference voltage.
US08564271B2 Method and means to implement a current follower operation of a buck mode, switching power supply
A buck mode power supply monitors the pulse load current for use as a scaled reference for comparison to a measured output current from each stage of the supply. A correction signal is generated for each stage by comparing the reference to the measured output currents. This result is compared to a second reference created from the system clock. A resulting second correction signal is used to alter the threshold reference voltage in a manner that provides proportional pulse width control to the supply output.
US08564266B2 DC-to-DC converter with independent compensation logic
An apparatus comprises a direct current (“DC”) to DC converter comprising a first compensation logic and other DC to DC converter logic. The first compensation logic compensates for phase shifts in an output of the DC to DC converter. The first compensation logic is disabled independently of the other DC to DC converter logic based on a first communication sent to the DC to DC converter.
US08564260B2 Dual-stage power conversion
A circuit converts an input voltage to an output voltage. The circuit includes a first stage voltage converter that receives the input voltage and converts the input voltage. The first stage voltage converter includes a first buck converter having a double rail output: a first rail at a high intermediate voltage and a second rail at a low intermediate voltage. The circuit also includes a second stage voltage converter that receives the output rails and produces the output voltage.
US08564259B2 Clock phase shifter for use with buck-boost converter
A buck boost converter generates a regulated output voltage responsive to an input voltage and switching control signals. Switching control circuitry generates the switching control signals responsive to the regulated output voltage, a maximum duty cycle signal and a mode signal. Mode control circuitry generates the maximum duty cycle signal and the mode signal responsive to a buck PWM signal and a boost PWM signal, a first clock signal and a second clock signal phase shifted from the first clock signal by a fixed, programmable amount. A phase shifter generates the first clock signal and the second clock signal responsive to a reference voltage and a synchronization signal.
US08564252B2 Boost buffer aid for reference buffer
A circuit for charging a capacitive load to a reference voltage in a capacitive sensor measurement circuit includes a reference buffer, a boost buffer, and drive logic. The reference buffer and the boost buffer are coupled with the capacitive load to be charged. The boost buffer first charges the capacitive load towards the reference voltage at a first rate of charging, and then ceases charging. The reference buffer subsequently continues charging at a slower second rate to settle the voltage across the capacitive load to within a tolerable range of the reference voltage.
US08564249B2 Charging unit with two power source inputs
A charging unit comprises a first input connectable to a first power source, a second input connectable to a second power source, and an output for connection to a battery to be charged. The charging unit also comprises a power supply unit operable simultaneously to provide power from the first input and power from the second input to the output.
US08564248B2 Computer system mounted with battery pack for performing system control based on characteristics of the battery pack and system main body thereof
A computer system, including: a battery pack that includes at least one battery cell and a temperature sensing unit to sense the temperature of the battery cell; and a system main body that includes a system unit to perform an operation with operating power received from the battery cell, an evaluation circuit connected with the temperature sensing unit to determine the temperature of the battery cell measured by the temperature sensing unit, and a system control unit to perform system protection control if the temperature of the battery cell determined by the evaluation circuit is equal to or more than a predetermined value.
US08564247B2 Cell management system
A cell management system and method for balancing energy across a plurality of cells coupled to a circuit bus. The system can include a transformer, two transformer switches, and for each cell, a first switch pair allowing transfer of energy between the transformer and the cell, and a second switch pair allowing removal or inclusion of the cell in the serial connection of cells. The system can include an energy storage device, a switch pair allowing transfer of energy between the transformer and the storage device, and for each cell, a third switch pair allowing transfer of energy between the storage device and the cell. The system can include cell, bus and storage device sensors and state estimators. The system can include a controller that controls the transformer switches, cell switches, and storage device switches based on the sensor readings and states.
US08564246B2 Battery charging system and method
A battery charging system and method, includes a high voltage charger for charging a group or string of series connected battery cells, and a group of individual cell chargers for charging individual ones of the cells. The charging technique includes detecting at least one cell being charged to a predetermined voltage, and then inhibiting the high voltage charger from further charging any of the cells. The individual cell chargers charge individual ones of the cells, except the at least one cell charged to the predetermined voltage.
US08564245B2 Traction battery having increased reliability
The invention relates to a traction battery having a first battery cell group and a second battery cell group. A first connection of the first battery cell group is connected to a first battery pole by a charging and disconnecting device, a second connection of the first battery cell group is connected to a first service plug connection, a first connection of the second battery cell group is connected to a second service plug connection, and a second connection of the second battery cell group is connected to a second battery pole by a disconnecting device. The first service plug connection and the second service plug connection can be short-circuited by an external service plug. According to the invention, such a traction battery comprises a first jumper connected between the first battery pole and the first service plug connection, by means of which the first battery pole and the first service plug connection can be short-circuited, and/or a second jumper device connected between the second battery pole and the second service plug connection, by means of which the second battery pole and the second service plug connection can be short-circuited.
US08564239B2 Medium detection device and image formation apparatus
A medium detection device includes: a sensor lever configured to rotate corresponding to a travel of a recording medium; a sensor configured to detect the rotation of the sensor lever; a stopper having a guide surface inclined with respect to the movement direction of the sensor lever and configured to stop movement of the sensor lever upon the rotation of the sensor.
US08564238B2 Device with a polyphase electrical machine, and related electrical machine
The invention relates to a device having a polyphase electrical machine, wherein a plurality of inverters (36, 37, 38), which are controlled by an interlaced control modulated by pulse width to an identical cutoff frequency, provide, on the phase outputs thereof, an alternating voltage signal having an identical fundamental frequency, amplitude and phase to an electrical machine (2) that comprises at least two separate so-called star windings (33, 34, 35), each star winding being supplied by a related inverter, each phase output of which is connected to a phase circuit that includes the phase winding of the star winding, the device being characterized in that each phase circuit for a star winding has a negative mutual inductance with the homologous phase circuit of another star winding.
US08564235B2 Self-adjusting door closer
A self-adjusting door closer is disclosed. The door closer is self powered and includes a control unit to intelligently control a valve within the door closer to vary the operating characteristics of the door closer as needed. The controller includes a position sensor to determine a position of the door, and at least one input switch to enable user selection of at least one door closer parameter for an installed door closer. The control circuitry is operable to set the valve in response to the user selection of the door closer parameters, and the position of the door, in order to control force exerted by the door closer on the door. A generator can be provided to provide electricity to power the controller and store power to operate the controller.
US08564234B2 Driving circuits, power devices and electric devices including the same
A power device includes a switching device and a control unit. The switching device has a control terminal and an output terminal. The control unit is configured to control a rising time required for a driving voltage for controlling the switching device to reach a target level such that a voltage between the control terminal and the output terminal is maintained less than or equal to a critical voltage. When the voltage between the control terminal and the output terminal is greater than the critical voltage, leakage current is generated between the control terminal and the output terminal.
US08564233B2 Safety system and method for pump and motor
Embodiments of the invention provide a variable frequency drive system and a method of controlling a pump driven by a motor with the pump in fluid communication with a fluid system. The drive system and method can provide one or more of the following: a sleep mode, pipe break detection, a line fill mode, an automatic start mode, dry run protection, an electromagnetic interference filter compatible with a ground fault circuit interrupter, two-wire and three-wire and three-phase motor compatibility, a simple start-up process, automatic password protection, a pump out mode, digital input/output terminals, and removable input and output power terminal blocks.
US08564232B2 Motor drive control device
A motor drive control device is configured to control driving of a brushless DC motor including a stator having drive coils, a rotor having plural magnetic poles, and plural position detecting units that output position detection signals representing position of the rotor with respect to the stator. The motor drive control device includes a drive voltage generating unit configured to generate and output drive voltages to the motor to drive the motor. An abnormality detecting unit can be used to detect abnormality of the position detection signals. When abnormality of at least one of the position detection signals has been detected by the abnormality detecting unit, the motor drive control device can drive the motor based on at least one of the remaining position detection signals excluding the position detection signal that has been detected as abnormal.
US08564230B2 Method and circuit arrangement for sensorless engine load detection and for controlling the motor current in accordance with the load value in stepper motors
A method and a circuit arrangement are provided which enable a mechanical load applied to the motor shaft of a stepper motor (M) or a load angle of the stepper motor to be detected in a sensorless manner. A method and circuit arrangement are also provided which enable the motor current(s) of a stepper motor to be controlled in accordance with the load value such that the load angle is as high as possible without risking step losses, in order to maintain the current consumption of the motor as low as possible. This is achieved according by evaluating the temporal duration of the ON- and the FD-phases during the chopper control of the motor.
US08564229B2 Device and method for controlling motor
A motor controlling device is provided that controls a brushless motor having a plurality of phases based on magnetic pole signals output by a plurality of magnetic pole signal output sections each corresponding to one of the phases. The motor controlling device includes an abnormality determining section, a signal generating section, and a motor controlling section. The abnormality determining section determines whether a magnetic pole signal output by each magnetic pole signal output section is an abnormal magnetic pole signal. When the abnormality determining section determines that at least one of the magnetic pole signals is an abnormal magnetic pole signal, the signal generating section generates a simulated signal corresponding to the abnormal magnetic pole signal based on the normal magnetic pole signals other than the abnormal magnetic pole signal and the rotational state of the brushless motor. The motor controlling section controls the brushless motor based on the simulated signal and the normal magnetic pole signals when the signal generating section generates the simulated signal.
US08564224B2 High average current, high quality pulsed electron injector
An electron injector including an electron source and a conducting grid situated close to the electron source, one or more RF accelerating/bunching cavities operating at the same fundamental RF frequency; a DC voltage source configured to bias the cathode at a small positive voltage with respect to the grid; a first RF drive configured to apply an RF signal between the cathode and grid at the fundamental and third harmonic RF frequencies; and a second RF drive configured to apply an RF drive signal to the accelerating/bunching cavities. Electrons are emitted by the cathode and travel through the grid to the accelerating/bunching cavities for input into an RF linac. The first RF drive applies a first RF drive signal at the fundamental frequency of the linac plus higher harmonics thereof to the gap between the cathode and the grid to cause the emitted electrons to form electron bunches and the second RF drive applies a second RF drive signal to the accelerating/bunching cavities on the other side of the grid to further accelerate and optimize the size of the electron bunches. Because the applied RF signals contain at the fundamental linac frequency, the electrons are bunched at that frequency and each RF bucket of the linac is filled with an electron bunch.
US08564223B2 Light programmable apparatus with light programmable lamp, setting device, and main structure
The invention relates to a light programmable apparatus comprising a light programmable lamp, a setting device and a main structure. The light programmable lamp is selectively electrically connected to the setting device for retrieving a light property setting such as intensity, saturation or color from the setting device. The light programmable lamp comprises: a programmable unit for retrieving and storing the light property setting while the light programmable lamp is selectively electrically connected to the setting device; and a LED module, electrically connected to the programmable unit, for emitting light corresponding to the light property setting.
US08564222B2 Lighting device controlling circuit module
The present invention relates to a lighting device controlling circuit module, comprising: a first bridge rectifier unit, a second bridge rectifier unit, a power factor correction unit, a controlling unit, a feedback unit, at least one switching unit, and at least one boost/buck unit. The lighting device controlling circuit module of the present invention can be made as an electronic chip for easily being integrated into an LED fluorescent lamp, therefore, a user can replace the traditional fluorescent lamp with the LED fluorescent lamp having the lighting device controlling circuit module so easily, and the user does not need to identify which two contacts of the LED fluorescent lamp are used as the power-inputting terminal before replacing the traditional fluorescent lamp by the LED fluorescent lamp.
US08564219B2 Circuits and methods for driving light sources
Embodiments in accordance with the present invention provide circuits and methods for driving a light-emitting diode (LED) light source. In one embodiment, a printed circuit board (PCB) includes a bridge rectifier rectifying an AC voltage to a rectified AC voltage, an LED light source, and a first switch coupled to the LED light source in series controlling a current through the LED light source according to a predetermined current reference. The LED light source and the first switch coupled in series receive the rectified AC voltage while the first switch is controlled linearly. The circuit further includes a current path coupled in parallel with the LED light source and an illuminated switch coupled between the AC power source and the bridge rectifier.
US08564218B2 Driving a light-emitting diode
An input stage (10) of an apparatus (1) for driving a light-emitting diode (40-42) receives a signal from a power supply (30-32), and an output stage (20) supplies a current to the light-emitting diode (40-42). The peak value divided by the average value of the current forms a ratio. The driving efficiency is improved by providing the input stage (10) with an arrangement (11) for reducing this ratio by manipulation of the signal, without the necessity of using any smoothing capacitors/inductors. The manipulation may comprise an addition of a frequency component to the signal or an adaptation of an amplitude of a frequency component of the signal. This frequency component may be a third and/or fifth and/or seventh harmonic frequency component of a fundamental frequency component of the signal. The arrangement (11) may comprise a resonant tank which may need to be tuned to the frequency component of the signal.
US08564216B1 Asymmetric end-of-life protection circuit for fluorescent lamp ballasts
An asymmetric end-of-life protection circuit with single-point voltage measurement is provided for an electronic ballast having two lamp connection terminals. A grounding circuit includes a capacitor and a first resistor coupled in parallel between a first lamp connection terminal and ground, and is effective to drain the second lamp connection terminal to ground. A lamp voltage detection circuit is coupled between the first lamp connection terminal and ground and measures the lamp voltage from the first lamp connection terminal. A controller is effective to shut down the ballast based on an output signal from the lamp voltage detection circuit being greater than a first predetermined threshold value or less than a second predetermined threshold value.
US08564215B2 Light emitting module device, light emitting module used in the device, and lighting apparatus provided with the device
A light emitting module device includes: a power line through which power is supplied to light emitting modules; and a signal generation circuit which generates a control signal. The power line is shared by a plurality of the light emitting modules, and has switches and switches which turn on or off current conduction to the light emitting modules, through open/close operations. The signal generation circuit individually controls the switches and the switches. The open/close operations include a light-emission period in which the light emitting module emits light; and an extinction period in which the light emitting module is extinguished, and if there is a control signal to be transmitted to the light emitting module, the control signal is superimposed onto supply power. Since a control signal is superimposed onto supply power to each light emitting module, the light emitting modules can be individually controlled. In addition, since the power line can be used also as a communication line, and the power line can be shared by a plurality of the light emitting modules, the number of lines can be decreased.
US08564212B2 Appropriate LED arrangement and power need in large-scale LED display and lighting apparatus and method thereof
Method for managing power of a display and apparatus thereof are provided. The proposed method includes the following steps: calculating a most appropriating voltage value and a most appropriating current value form a plurality of LEDs; and obtaining a first optimal working point according to the most appropriating voltage value and the most appropriating current value, wherein the first optimal working point is used for arranging the plurality of LEDs.
US08564207B2 Carpet unit comprising optical sensor
The invention provides a carpet unit comprising a laminate of a tufted primary backing layer providing a carpet unit top face, an intermediate adhesive layer, and a backing layer providing a carpet unit back face, wherein the carpet unit is selected from the group consisting a carpet and a carpet tile, wherein the carpet unit further comprises an optical sensor, arranged to generate a sensor signal, wherein, seen from carpet unit top face, the optical sensor is arranged behind the primary backing layer, and wherein the carpet unit is arranged to transmit light from the carpet unit top face to the optical sensor.
US08564202B2 LED package and method for manufacturing such a LED package
A LED package includes a LED die, and a memory device. The memory device is arranged for holding LED data information for driving the LED die. A LED driver arrangement includes a LED package as described above, a LED driver device and a microcontroller. The microcontroller is connected to the memory device for accessing the LED data information for driving the LED die and to the LED driver for sending an output flux settings signal. The LED driver device is connected to the LED die for providing a driving signal to the LED die, the driving signal being based on the output flux in package settings signal from the microcontroller.
US08564201B2 Amalgam-based fluorescent lamp control circuit
A lamp is operated with main and auxiliary amalgams. In accordance with one or more embodiments, a lamp includes an auxiliary amalgam-based material that releases mercury at an elevated temperature that is above an operating temperature of the lamp, and that absorbs mercury at temperatures below the elevated temperature. During a start-up period, the auxiliary amalgam-based material is heated to cause the material to release mercury for generating light in the lamp. After the start-up period, the auxiliary amalgam-based material is allowed to cool below the elevated temperature and absorb mercury, while the lamp continues to operate for generating light using a main amalgam.
US08564200B2 Metal halide lamp
The invention provides a metal halide lamp 1 wherein the concentration of the filling components fulfill a condition according to claim 1. Such a lamp is found to be a good alternative to existing high-pressure discharge lamps (Ceramic Discharge Metal halide lamps) based on rare earth fillings or other metal halide fillings. In addition, such a lamp can be dimmed without a substantial shift of the color point. Such a lamp can also have photometric properties that are substantially independent of the arrangement of the lamp and/or the external temperature.
US08564198B2 Display apparatus including enhanced sealing portion
A display apparatus includes an enhanced sealing portion. The display apparatus includes a substrate unit that includes a first substrate and a second substrate facing each other; a sealing portion that is disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate; and a metal film that is disposed between the first substrate and the sealing portion. Open holes having different sizes are formed in proportion to energy intensities of an energy source applied to the metal film. During sealing in a sealing region by using a laser, since the metal film having a specific shape is patterned, even when energy having an irregular Gaussian shape is applied, uniform energy may be applied to the sealing portion. Accordingly, an adhesive force in the sealing region may be increased.
US08564196B2 Organic electroluminescent display device containing filter to provide high contrast
An organic EL display device including organic EL light-emitting regions which includes a red-light emitting layer, a green-light emitting layer, and a blue-light emitting layer that are arranged on a main substrate includes: a first light-adjusting layer including a first portion and a second portion, the first portion selectively transmitting desired blue light, and the second portion absorbing visible light other than at least the desired blue light; and a second light-adjusting layer selectively absorbing light with a wavelength between desired red light and desired green light at an entire surface, in which the blue light-emitting layer is overlaid with the first portion, and a bank which is a non-light emitting portion is overlaid with the second portion. The first portion and the second portion may be integrally formed of a same material, and the second portion may absorb an entire range of visible light.
US08564193B2 Light-emitting element, light-emitting device, electronic appliance, and method of manufacturing the same
A light-emitting element is provided which has a light-emitting layer between a first electrode and a second electrode, where the light-emitting layer has a first layer and a second layer; the first layer contains a first organic compound and a third organic compound; the second layer contains a second organic compound and the third organic compound; the first layer is provided to be in contact with the second layer on the first electrode side; the first organic compound is an organic compound with an electron transporting property; the second organic compound is an organic compound with a hole transporting property; the third organic compound has an electron trapping property; and light emission from the third organic compound can be obtained when voltage is applied to the first electrode and the second electrode so that the potential of the first electrode is higher than that of the second electrode.
US08564191B2 Light emitting substrate having photonic crystal structure and image display apparatus including the same
A light emitting substrate configured to enhance luminance of an image display apparatus is disclosed. The light emitting substrate includes a transparent substrate, a photonic crystal structure, a transparent anode, a light emitting layer having a diffuse reflectance of 0.04% or less and having a side reflecting member at a side thereof. The photonic crystal structure, the transparent anode, and the light emitting layer are successively laminated in this order on the transparent substrate. The light emitting substrate satisfies the following Condition 1 or Condition 2: Condition 1: 95≦c, and 40≦a<100 Condition 2: 85≦c<95, and 80≦a<100 where a is a relative area of the photonic crystal structure to that of the light emitting layer, and c is a reflectance of the side reflecting member.
US08564189B2 Organic EL element and organic EL device
According to one embodiment, an organic EL element has a first electrode on a first substrate, a first carrier transport layer on the first electrode, an emitting layer on the first carrier transport layer, a second carrier transport layer on the emitting layer, a second electrode on the second carrier transport layer, a first heat absorbing layer on the second electrode, the first heat absorbing layer being separated from a center of the second electrode, and a second substrate on the first heat absorbing layer.
US08564183B2 Spark plug and method for manufacturing spark plug
A spark plug having a center electrode, an insulator and a metal shell and satisfying conditions (1) to (5) as defined herein. Also disclosed is a method of manufacturing a spark plug including the step of producing an insulator by preparing a raw material powder in such a manner that the particle size distribution ratio (90% volume diameter/10% volume diameter) between particles of 10% volume diameter and particles of 90% volume diameter in the raw material powder is 3.6 to 5.2, and then, press-forming and sintering the prepared raw material powder.
US08564176B2 Piezoelectric MEMS switch and method of manufacturing piezoelectric MEMS switch
A piezoelectric MEMS switch includes: a base substrate; a diaphragm arranged to oppose the base substrate via a gap; a first piezoelectric drive section constituted by layering a first lower electrode, a first piezoelectric body and a first upper electrode on a first surface of the diaphragm, the first surface being across the diaphragm from the gap; a second piezoelectric drive section constituted by layering a second lower electrode, a second piezoelectric body and a second upper electrode on a second surface of the diaphragm, the second surface facing the gap; a fixed electrode provided on a gap side of the base substrate; and a movable electrode which is fixed to a second piezoelectric drive section side of the diaphragm and opposes the fixed electrode in such a manner that the movable electrode makes contact with and separates from the fixed electrode according to displacement of the diaphragm.
US08564173B2 Elastic wave device
In an elastic wave device that significantly reduces and prevents deterioration of a frequency characteristic without roughening an undersurface of a piezoelectric substrate, a structure is bonded to a surface of a piezoelectric substrate other than a main surface of the piezoelectric substrate on which IDTs are located. The structure is provided so that a path difference is defined between a first component and a second component of a bulk wave that is excited by the IDT and propagates in the piezoelectric substrate toward the bonding surface. The first component of the bulk wave is reflected from the bonding surface. The second component of the bulk wave enters the structure from the bonding surface, propagates in the structure, enters the piezoelectric substrate from the bonding surface, and propagates in the same direction as that of the first component reflected from the bonding surface in the piezoelectric substrate.
US08564169B2 Electrostatic induction generation device and electrostatic induction generation apparatus having a movable electrode formed between a first fixed electrode substrate and a second fixed electrode substrate
An electrostatic induction generation device comprising a first fixed electrode substrate having a first electret electrode, a second fixed electrode substrate having a second electret electrode, a movable electrode substrate having a movable electrode, a holding frame formed separately from the movable electrode, a first pair of electrode support beams and a second pair of electrode support beams connected with the movable electrode and the holding frame, and wherein the movable electrode substrate is formed between the first fixed electrode substrate and the second fixed electrode substrate, and the movable electrode is opposed to the first electret electrode and the second electret electrode.
US08564168B2 Rotor lamination assembly
An electric machine includes a rotor lamination assembly having a lamination member formed from a material having a first yield strength. The lamination member includes a first bridge portion having a first width, and a first bridge zone having a first thickness. The rotor lamination assembly also includes at least one lamination section having a second bridge zone having a second thickness. The second thickness is greater than the first thickness. The rotor lamination assembly further includes at least one lamination element formed from a second material having a second yield strength that is higher than the first yield strength, and at least one lamination component. The at least one lamination component includes a second bridge portion having a second width. The second width is greater than the first width.
US08564166B2 Motor structure
A motor structure including a stator assembly having a stator core and a winding and a rotor assembly embedded therein having a rotor core and a permanent magnet. The stator core includes a yoke and a plurality of teeth protruding inwards from the yoke. Two adjacent teeth form a wire embedding slot and the winding is placed inside the wire embedding slot and winds around the teeth. The rotor core includes an annular ring having a central axial pore and a plurality of magnetic induction blocks protruding outwards from an outer side of the annular ring. Two adjacent magnetic induction blocks form a radial recess for mounting the permanent magnet. The section of an outer side surface of the magnetic induction blocks is a circular-arc line. The outer side surface employs a point with a distance deviating from the center of the central axial pore as a center of circle.
US08564163B2 Motor mounting bracket
A mounting bracket for an electrical motor having two mounting interfaces at different distances from the bottom surface to be used in combination with two stator frames of different sizes. A method for obtaining equal shaft heights for electrical motors having stator frames of different sizes.
US08564158B2 Appliance having user detection functionality for controlling operation thereof
An apparatus is provided that includes first, second and third switches, the first and second of which are in line between an appliance and terminals of the appliance that are connectable to a power source. The first switched is configured to open and close based on closing and opening of a door of the appliance, and the second switch is configured to open and close based on the mode of the appliance. Thus, the appliance may be connected to the power source when the first switch or the second switch is closed, and disconnected from the power source when both the first switch and the second switch are open. The third switch, which includes a sensor, is configured to control the second switch to close upon actuation in response to a detection proximate the appliance, where actuation of the third switch may cause the appliance to enter an operational mode.
US08564156B2 Apparatus and method of controlling switch units, and battery pack and battery management apparatus comprising said apparatus
Disclosed are an apparatus and method of controlling switch units between a battery pack and a load, and a battery pack and a battery management system comprising the same. The apparatus comprises a memory for storing the turn-off number and order of first and second switch units connecting the battery pack with the load according to current ranges; and a control unit for equalizing the turn-off order of the first switch unit and the second switch unit with reference to the turn-off number and order in a current range corresponding to a magnitude level of discharge current of a battery. Accordingly, the present invention reduces the frequency of breakdown or malfunction of the switch units and increases the using period of the switch units.
US08564152B1 Dual intake wave energy converter
This invention is an apparatus and method for harnessing water wave energy by transforming it into a continuous flow of water to be converted into mechanical work by means of a water turbine which in turn actuates a generator that transforms the work in to electrical energy. The wave energy device connects distanced water waves in a novel manner that allows them to power one another rather than only themselves alone. By interposing a turbine in the communicating flow of water that transmits power from each wave to the others energy can be siphoned from them and stored for human use.
US08564151B1 System and method for generating electricity
A system and method for generating electric power includes a barge with a frame mounted thereon. A paddlewheel is rotationally mounted on one end of the barge to provide rotational torque to a first transmission. The first transmission drives a hydraulic pump for pumping hydraulic fluid to a hydraulic motor. The hydraulic motor drives a second transmission which is operable to drive an electric generator for generating electricity. During operation, the force of naturally flowing water turns the paddlewheel. This in turn provides rotational power to drive the transmissions, hydraulic pump and hydraulic motor. The frame may further be divided into two hingedly connected portions. One portion of the frame may be rotated out of the water to control the turning of the paddlewheel as well as perform maintenance on the paddlewheel.
US08564146B2 Power plant
A power plant that is capable of attaining downsizing and reduction of manufacturing costs and enhancing the degree of freedom in design thereof. In the power plant 1, a first rotating machine 11 includes a first rotor 14 having a predetermined plurality of magnetic poles 14a, a stator 13 that generates a predetermined plurality of armature magnetic poles to thereby generate a rotating magnetic field, and a second rotor 15 having a predetermined plurality of soft magnetic material elements 15a. The ratio between the number of the armature magnetic poles, the number of the magnetic poles, and the number of the soft magnetic material elements is set to 1:m:(1+m)/2 (m≠1.0). One of the rotors 14 and 15 is mechanically connected to an output portion 3a of a heat engine 3, and the other of the rotors 14 and 15 and a rotor 23 of a second rotating machine 21 are mechanically connected to driven parts DW and DW. Further, in starting the heat engine 3, when the rotational speed of the output portion 3a is not lower than a first predetermined value NEST1, the heat engine 3 is started in a state where the rotational speed of the output portion 3a is not increased.
US08564145B2 Universal automatic cord reeling device
An automatic universal cord reeling device capable of consolidating, organizing and storing cords and flexible tubes from any source comprising, a two tiered spool and a spring motor used to drive the mechanism to provide stored energy to the system through the operations of a set of gears and a spring loaded plunger and detent system. In an alternate embodiment of the invention, a mini alternator may be attached to the spring motor drum of the system to generate electric current which is stored in a battery pack incorporated within the system. In this embodiment, the stored energy in the form of electric current can be tapped through a plug to drive an electronic mobile or other device.
US08564142B2 Radiation curable ink jet ink composition and ink jet recording method
The invention provides a radiation curable ink jet ink composition including: a monomer equal to or more than 20% by mass and equal to or less than 50% by mass with respect to the total mass of the ink composition, which is represented by the following formula (I); and N-vinylcaprolactam equal to or more than 5% by mass and equal to or less than 15% by mass with respect to the total mass of the ink composition: CH2═CR1—COOR2—O—CH═CH—R3  (I) wherein, R1 is a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, R2 is a divalent organic residue having 2 to 20 carbon atoms, and R3 is a hydrogen atom or monovalent organic residue having 1 to 11 carbon atoms.
US08564140B2 Mono-acid hybrid conductive composition and method
A conductive composition includes a mono-acid hybrid that includes an unprotected, single reactive group. The mono-acid hybrid may include substantially non-reactive groups elsewhere such that the mono-acid hybrid is functional as a chain terminator. Methods and devices using the compositions are also disclosed.
US08564139B2 Semiconductor devices including protected barrier layers
Provided are semiconductor devices and methods of manufacturing the same. the device may include a semiconductor substrate, a first conductive pattern provided in the semiconductor substrate to have a first width at a surface level of the semiconductor substrate, a barrier pattern covering the first conductive pattern and having a second width substantially greater than the first width, a second conductive pattern partially covering the barrier pattern and having a third width substantially smaller than the second width, and an insulating pattern disposed on a sidewall of the second conductive pattern. The second width may be substantially equal to or less than to a sum of the third width and a width of the insulating pattern.
US08564137B2 System for relieving stress and improving heat management in a 3D chip stack having an array of inter-stack connections
The present disclosure provides a system and method for relieving stress and providing improved heat management in a 3D chip stack of a multichip package. A stress relief apparatus is provided to allow the chip stack to adjust in response to pressure, thereby relieving stress applied to the chip stack. Additionally, improved heat management is provided such that the chip stack adjusts in response to thermal energy generated within the chip stack to remove heat from between chips of the stack, thereby allowing the chips to operate as desired without compromising the performance of the chip stack. The chip stack also includes an array of flexible conductors disposed between two chips, thereby providing an electrical connection between the two chips.
US08564136B2 Semiconductor device and method for fabricating the same
A semiconductor device includes an interlayer dielectric with a single-layer structure having a plurality of pores. The porosity of the interlayer dielectric per unit volume varies in a thickness direction.
US08564129B2 Low resistivity contact
Embodiments of a low resistivity contact to a semiconductor structure are disclosed. In one embodiment, a semiconductor structure includes a semiconductor layer, a semiconductor contact layer having a low bandgap on a surface of the semiconductor layer, and an electrode on a surface of the semiconductor contact layer opposite the semiconductor layer. The bandgap of the semiconductor contact layer is in a range of and including 0 to 0.2 electron-volts (eV), more preferably in a range of and including 0 to 0.1 eV, even more preferably in a range of and including 0 to 0.05 eV. Preferably, the semiconductor layer is p-type. In one particular embodiment, the semiconductor contact layer and the electrode form an ohmic contact to the p-type semiconductor layer and, as a result of the low bandgap of the semiconductor contact layer, the ohmic contact has a resistivity that is less than 1×10−6 ohms·cm2.
US08564127B2 Semiconductor device
To provide a technique capable of reducing the chip size of a semiconductor chip and particularly, a technique capable of reducing the chip size of a semiconductor chip in the form of a rectangle that constitutes an LCD driver by devising a layout arrangement in a short-side direction. In a semiconductor chip that constitutes an LCD driver, input protection circuits are arranged in a lower layer of part of a plurality of input bump electrodes and on the other hand, in a lower layer of the other part of the input bump electrodes, the input protection circuits are not arranged but SRAMs (internal circuits) are arranged.
US08564126B2 Semiconductor arrangement
A semiconductor arrangement, in particular a power semiconductor arrangement, in which a semiconductor having a top side provided with contacts is connected to an electrical connection device formed from a film assembly wherein an underfill is provided between the connection device and the top side of the semiconductor. The underfill has a matrix formed from a preceramic polymer.
US08564124B2 Semiconductor package
A semiconductor package that includes a semiconductor die and a heat spreader thermally coupled to the semiconductor and disposed at least partially within the molded housing of the package.
US08564123B2 Chip package and fabrication method thereof
A chip package and a fabrication method thereof are provided according to an embodiment of the invention. The chip package contains a semiconductor substrate having a chip. A packaging layer is disposed over the semiconductor substrate. A spacer is disposed between the semiconductor substrate and the packaging layer, wherein a side surface consisting of the semiconductor substrate, the spacer and the packaging layer has a recess section. The method includes forming a plurality of spacers between a plurality of chips of a semiconductor wafer and a packaging layer, wherein each spacer corresponding to each chip is separated from each other and the spacer is shrunk inward from an edge of the chip to form a recess section and dicing the semiconductor wafer along a scribe line between any two adjacent chips to form a plurality of chip packages.
US08564122B2 Circuit board component shim structure
Various circuit boards and methods of fabricating the same are disclosed. In one aspect, a method of manufacturing is provided that includes coupling an electrically non-functional component to a surface of a first circuit board. The electrically non-functional component has a first elevation. The surface of the circuit board is adapted to have a semiconductor chip mounted thereon. An electrically functional component is mounted to the surface inward from the electrically non-functional component. The electrically functional component has a second elevation less than the first elevation.
US08564121B2 Semiconductor device and manufacturing method of semiconductor device
A semiconductor device includes: a substrate; a semiconductor element installed on the substrate so that a surface formed with an electrode is directed to the substrate; a chip capacitor installed on the substrate; and a conductive material covering a rear surface opposite to the surface of the semiconductor element and joining to one terminal electrode of the chip capacitor.
US08564119B2 Integrated thermal structures and fabrication methods thereof facilitating implementing a cell phone or other electronic system
Circuit structures and methods of fabrication are provided for facilitating implementing a complete electronic system in a compact package. The circuit structure includes, in one embodiment, a chips-first multichip base layer with conductive structures extending therethrough. An interconnect layer is disposed over the front surface of the multichip layer and includes interconnect metallization electrically connected to contact pads of the chips and to conductive structures extending through the structural material. A redistribution layer, disposed over the back surface of the multichip layer, includes a redistribution metallization also electrically connected to conductive structures extending through the structural material. Input/output contacts are arrayed over the redistribution layer, including over the lower surfaces of at least some integrated circuit chips within the multichip layer, and are electrically connected through the redistribution metallization, conductive structures, and interconnect metallization to contact pads of the integrated circuit chips of the multichip layer.
US08564112B2 Semiconductor device
To improve the performance and reliability of semiconductor devices. For the semiconductor chip CP1, power MOSFETs Q1 and Q2 for the switch, a diode DD1 for detecting the heat generation of the power MOSFET Q1, a diode DD2 for detecting the heat generation of the power MOSFET Q2, and plural pad electrodes PD are formed. The power MOSFET Q1 and the diode DD1 are arranged in a first MOSFET region RG1 on the side of a side SD1, and the power MOSFET Q2 and the diode DD2 are arranged in a second MOSFET region RG2 on the side of a side SD2. The diode DD1 is arranged along the side SD1, the diode DD2 is arranged along the side SD2, and all pad electrodes PD other than the pad electrodes PDS1 and PDS2 for the source are arranged along a side SD3 between the diodes DD1 and DD2.
US08564111B2 Stacked digital/RF system-on-chip with integral isolation layer
An apparatus includes a device package, a first Integrated Circuit (IC) that is packaged in the device package, and a second IC, which is packaged in the device package and is fabricated on a multi-layer interconnection circuit including a plurality of interconnection layers for interconnecting components of the second IC, wherein a selected layer in the plurality is configured to serve as a conductive shield for reducing interference between the first and second ICs.
US08564109B2 Illumination apparatus
According to one embodiment, an illumination apparatus includes an LED (Light Emitting Diode) module, a light guide plate, and a support body. The support body supports the LED module and the light guide plate. A reflective surface of the support body is provided between a portion supporting the LED module and a portion supporting the light guide plate. The reflective surface is reflective with respect to the light emitted from the LED package. The LED module is tilted relative to the reflective surface with the LED package mounting surface being toward the reflective surface. An angle between the LED module and the reflective surface is less than 90°.
US08564104B2 Passivation layer structure of semiconductor device and method for forming the same
According to an embodiment of the invention, a passivation layer structure of a semiconductor device disposed on a semiconductor substrate is provided, which includes a passivation layer structure disposed on the semiconductor substrate, wherein the passivation layer structure includes a halogen-doped aluminum oxide layer. According to an embodiment of the invention, a method for forming a passivation structure of a semiconductor device is provided.
US08564103B2 Method of manufacturing an electronic device
In order to protect IMD layers, particularly low-k dielectrics, a protection film is formed on the sidewall of an opening in the IMD layers prior to etching a trench in the underlying silicon substrate. After etching the trench, such as through a TMAH wet etch, at least part of the protection film can be removed. The protection film can be removed in an anisotropic etch process such that a portion of the protection film remains as a sidewall spacer on the sidewall of the opening within the IMD layers.
US08564102B2 Semiconductor device having through silicon via (TSV)
A semiconductor device and a method of fabricating a semiconductor device. The semiconductor device includes an interlayer insulation layer pattern, a metal wire pattern exposed by a passage formed by a via hole formed in the interlayer insulation layer pattern to input and output an electrical signal, and a plated layer pattern directly contacting the metal wire pattern and filling the via hole. The method includes forming an interlayer insulation layer having a metal wire pattern to input and output an electrical signal formed therein, forming a via hole to define a passage that extends through the interlayer insulation layer until at least a part of the metal wire pattern is exposed, and forming a plated layer pattern to fill the via hole and to directly contact the metal wire pattern by using the metal wire pattern exposed through the via hole as a seed metal layer.
US08564096B2 Diffused integrated resistor
Methods and apparatus according to various aspects of the present invention may operate in conjunction with a resistor formed of a lightly-doped P-type region formed in a portion of a lightly-doped N-type semiconductor well extending on a lightly-doped P-type semiconductor substrate, the well being laterally delimited by a P-type wall extending down to the substrate, the portion of the well being delimited, vertically, by a heavily-doped N-type area at the limit between the well and the substrate and, horizontally, by a heavily-doped N-type wall. A diode may be placed between a terminal of the resistor and the heavily-doped N-type wall, the cathode of the diode being connected to said terminal.
US08564093B2 Semiconductor device and manufacturing method therefor
The invention relates to a semiconductor device and a manufacturing method for the same, and makes the rejection rate of the product after chips are stacked and mounted sufficiently low, even when the chips are selected in a conventional, simple and inexpensive wafer test.A first device where a number of first semiconductor chips and a second semiconductor chip for controlling communication between the first semiconductor chips and the outside or communication between the first semiconductor chips are stacked and a second device having at least one third semiconductor chip that communicates with the second semiconductor chip are mounted on a substrate, wherein the third semiconductor chip functions to substitute a first semiconductor chip, there are at least the same number of third semiconductor chips as there are first semiconductor chips that do not operate normally, from among the first semiconductor chips within the first device, and the third semiconductor chips are stacked so as to substitute the functions of the first semiconductor chips that do not operate normally.
US08564092B2 Power convertor device and construction methods
In one aspect, the present invention relates generally to integrated circuit (IC) packages and more specific to some embodiments of IC power convertor technologies. In particular, IC packages that have a high degree of scalability to handle high voltage or current levels, good heat dissipation properties, flexible adaptability to generate packages operable at a wide range of current levels and having a wide range of power adaptability, lends itself to rapid inexpensive prototyping, the ability to adapt various substrates and IC devices to one another without extensive retooling or custom designing of components, as well as other advantages.
US08564089B2 Electronic fuse structure formed using a metal gate electrode material stack configuration
In sophisticated semiconductor devices, electronic fuses may be provided on the basis of a replacement gate approach by using the aluminum material as an efficient metal for inducing electromigration in the electronic fuses. The electronic fuse may be formed on an isolation structure, thereby providing an efficient thermal decoupling of the electronic fuse from the semiconductor material and the substrate material, thereby enabling the provision of efficient electronic fuses in a bulk configuration, while avoiding incorporation of fuses into the metallization system.
US08564088B2 Semiconductor device having variably laterally doped zone with decreasing concentration formed in an edge region
In a semiconductor body, a semiconductor device has an active region with a vertical drift section of a first conduction type and a near-surface lateral well of a second, complementary conduction type. An edge region surrounding this active region comprises a variably laterally doped doping material zone (VLD zone). This VLD zone likewise has the second, complementary conduction type and adjoins the well. The concentration of doping material of the VLD zone decreases to the concentration of doping material of the drift section along the VLD zone towards a semiconductor chip edge. Between the lateral well and the VLD zone, a transitional region is provided which contains at least one zone of complementary doping located at a vertically lower point than the well in the semiconductor body.
US08564087B2 Photodiode manufacturing method and photodiodes
A semiconductor substrate 2 is dry etched before an insulating layer 4 is exposed, whereby a hole H1 penetrating through the semiconductor substrate 2 and reaching the insulating layer 4 is formed at a position corresponding to a photosensitive region S1. Next, an irregular asperity 22 is formed in a surface 7 of an n+ type embedded layer 6 exposed in the hole H1. The surface of the n+ type embedded layer 6 exposed in the hole H1 through the insulating layer 4 is irradiated with a picosecond to femtosecond pulsed laser beam, whereby the insulating layer 4 is removed and the surface 7 of the n+ type embedded layer 6 exposed in the hole H1 is roughened by the picosecond to femtosecond pulsed laser beam, to form the irregular asperity 22 in the entire area of the surface 7. Then the substrate with the irregular asperity 22 therein is subjected to a thermal treatment.
US08564083B2 Vertical hall sensor and method for producing a vertical hall sensor
The invention relates to a vertical Hall sensor integrated in a semiconductor chip and a method for the production thereof. The vertical Hall sensor has an electrically conductive well of a first conductivity type, which is embedded in an electrically conductive region of a second conductivity type. The electrical contacts are arranged along a straight line on a planar surface of the electrically conductive well. The electrically conductive well is generated by means of high-energy ion implantation and subsequent heating, so that it has a doping profile which either has a maximum which is located at a depth T1 from the planar surface of the electrically conductive well, or is essentially constant up to a depth T2.
US08564082B2 Radiation detector
A radiation detector of this invention has a curable synthetic resin film covering exposed surfaces of a radiation sensitive semiconductor layer, a carrier selective high resistance film and a common electrode, in which a material allowing no chloride to mix in is used in a manufacturing process of the curable synthetic resin film. This prevents pinholes and voids from being formed by chlorine ions in the carrier selective high resistance film and semiconductor layer. Also a protective film which does not transmit ionic materials may be provided between the exposed surface of the common electrode and the curable synthetic resin film, thereby to prevent the carrier selective high resistance film from being corroded by chlorine ions included in the curable synthetic resin film, and to prevent an increase of dark current flowing through the semiconductor layer.
US08564080B2 Magnetic storage element utilizing improved pinned layer stack
A magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) storage element may comprise a pinned layer stack and a first functional layer. The pinned layer stack is formed of a plurality of layers comprising a bottom pinned layer, a coupling layer, and a top pinned layer. The first functional layer is disposed in the bottom pinned layer or the top pinned layer.
US08564070B2 Large bit-per-cell three-dimensional mask-programmable read-only memory
A large bit-per-cell three-dimensional mask-programmable read-only memory (3D-MPROMB) is disclosed. It can achieve large bit-per-cell (e.g. 4-bpc or more). 3D-MPROMB can be realized by adding resistive layer(s) or resistive element(s) to the memory cells.
US08564069B1 Field effect transistors with low body resistance and self-balanced body potential
Embodiments of the invention relate generally to semiconductor devices and, more particularly, to semiconductor devices having field effect transistors (FETs) with a low body resistance and, in some embodiments, a self-balanced body potential where multiple transistors share same body potential. In one embodiment, the invention includes a field effect transistor (FET) comprising a source within a substrate, a drain within the substrate, and an active gate atop the substrate and between the source and the drain, an inactive gate structure atop the substrate and adjacent the source or the drain, a body adjacent the inactive gate, and a discharge path within the substrate for releasing a charge from the FET, the discharge path lying between the active gate of the FET and the body, wherein the discharge path is substantially perpendicular to a width of the active gate.
US08564067B2 Silicon-on-insulator (SOI) structure configured for reduced harmonics and method of forming the structure
Disclosed is semiconductor structure with an insulator layer on a semiconductor substrate and a device layer is on the insulator layer. The substrate is doped with a relatively low dose of a dopant having a given conductivity type such that it has a relatively high resistivity. Additionally, a portion of the semiconductor substrate immediately adjacent to the insulator layer can be doped with a slightly higher dose of the same dopant, a different dopant having the same conductivity type or a combination thereof. Optionally, micro-cavities are created within this same portion so as to balance out any increase in conductivity due to increased doping with a corresponding increase in resistivity. Increasing the dopant concentration at the semiconductor substrate-insulator layer interface raises the threshold voltage (Vt) of any resulting parasitic capacitors and, thereby reduces harmonic behavior. Also disclosed herein are embodiments of a method for forming such a semiconductor structure.
US08564065B2 Circuit architecture for metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) output driver electrical overstress self-protection
Metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) protection circuits and methods of forming the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, an integrated circuit includes a pad, a p-type MOS (PMOS) transistor, and first and second n-type MOS (NMOS) transistors. The first NMOS transistor includes a drain, a source and a gate electrically connected to the pad, a first supply voltage, and a drain of the PMOS transistor, respectively. The second NMOS transistor includes a gate, a drain, and a source electrically connected to a bias node, a second supply voltage, and a source of the PMOS transistor, respectively. The source of the second NMOS transistor is further electrically connected to a body of the PMOS transistor so as to prevent a current flowing from the drain of the PMOS transistor to the second supply voltage through the body of PMOS transistor when a transient signal event is received on the pad.
US08564060B2 Semiconductor device with large blocking voltage and manufacturing method thereof
There is no effective method for fabricating a semiconductor power device containing UMOSFET possessing large channel mobility and whose threshold voltage can be lowered with no loss in blocking voltage. A semiconductor device with large blocking voltage is provided utilizing silicon carbide trench MOSFET possessing both narrow regions where the p body concentration is low, and wide regions where the p body concentration is high.
US08564059B2 High-voltage vertical power component
A high-voltage vertical power component including a lightly-doped semiconductor substrate of a first conductivity type and, on the side of an upper surface, an upper semiconductor layer of the second conductivity type which does not extend all the way to the component periphery, wherein the component periphery includes, on the lower surface side, a ring-shaped diffused region of the second conductivity type extending across from one third to half of the component thickness; and on the upper surface side, an insulated ring-shaped groove crossing the substrate to penetrate into an upper portion of ring-shaped region.
US08564056B2 Semiconductor device with vertical channel over buried bit line
A semiconductor device and a method for manufacturing the same are provided. The method includes forming a cell structure where a storage node contact is coupled to a silicon layer formed over a gate, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process of the device. The semiconductor device includes a bit line buried in a semiconductor substrate; a plurality of gates disposed over the semiconductor substrate buried with the bit line; a first plug disposed in a lower portion between the gates and coupled to the bit line; a silicon layer disposed on the upper portion and sidewalls of the gate; and a second plug coupled to the silicon layer disposed over the gate.
US08564052B2 Trench MOSFET with trenched floating gates in termination
A trench MOSFET comprising a plurality of transistor cells, multiple trenched floating gates in termination area is disclosed. The trenched floating gates have trench depth equal to or deeper than body junction depth of body regions in active area. In some preferred embodiments, the trench MOSFET further comprises a gate metal runner surrounding outside the source metal and extending to the gate metal pad. Furthermore, the termination area further comprises an EPR surrounding outside the trenched floating gates.
US08564051B2 Power semiconductor device with buried source electrode
A power semiconductor device that includes a buried source electrode disposed at the bottom of a trench below a respective gate electrode, and a source connector including a finger electrically connecting the buried source to the source contact of the device, and a process for fabricating the device.
US08564049B2 Flip chip contact (FCC) power package
This invention discloses a power device package for containing, protecting and providing electrical contacts for a power transistor. The power device package includes a top and bottom lead frames for directly no-bump attaching to the power transistor. The power transistor is attached to the bottom lead frame as a flip-chip with a source contact and a gate contact directly no-bumping attaching to the bottom lead frame. The power transistor has a bottom drain contact attaching to the top lead frame. The top lead frame further includes an extension for providing a bottom drain electrode substantially on a same side with the bottom lead frame. In a preferred embodiment, the power device package further includes a joint layer between device metal of source, gate or drain and top or bottom lead frame, through applying ultrasonic energy. In another embodiment, a layer of conductive epoxy or adhesive, a solder paste, a carbon paste, or other types of attachment agents for direct no-bumping attaching the power transistor to one of the top and bottom lead frames.
US08564048B2 Contact barrier modulation of field effect transistors
Embodiments of the invention relate to field effect transistors. The field effect transistor includes a gate electrode for providing a gate field, a first electrode including a conductive material having a low carrier density and a low density of electronic states, a second electrode, and a semiconductor. Contact barrier modulation includes barrier height lowering of a Schottky contact between the first electrode and the semiconductor. In some embodiments of the invention, a vertical field effect transistor employs an electrode comprising a conductive material with a low density of states such that the transistors contact barrier modulation comprises barrier height lowering of the Schottky contact between the electrode with a low density of states and the adjacent semiconductor by a Fermi level shift.
US08564044B2 Non-volatile memory and logic circuit process integration
An integrated circuit is disclosed that includes a split gate memory device comprising a select gate is located over a substrate. A charge storage layer includes a layer of discrete storage elements and a layer of high-k dielectric material covering at least one side of the layer of discrete storage elements. At least a portion of a control gate is located over the charge storage layer. The control gate includes a layer of barrier work function material and a layer of gate material located over the layer of barrier work function material.
US08564042B2 Dual storage node memory
An embodiment of the present invention is directed to a memory cell. The memory cell includes a first charge storage element and a second charge storage element, wherein the first and second charge storage elements include nitrides. The memory cell further includes an insulating layer formed between the first and second charge storage elements. The insulating layer provides insulation between the first and second charge storage elements.
US08564037B2 Semiconductor device having isolation groove and device formation portion
A semiconductor device may include, but is not limited to, a semiconductor substrate having a device isolation groove defining first to fourth device formation portions. The second device formation portion is separated from the first device formation portion. The third device formation portion extends from the first device formation portion. The third device formation portion is separated from the second device formation portion. The fourth device formation portion extends from the second device formation portion. The fourth device formation portion is separated from the first and third device formation portions. The third and fourth device formation portions are positioned between the first and second device formation portions.
US08564036B2 Photodetector for detecting energy line in a first wavelength region and in a second wavelength region
In a photodetector 1, a low-resistance Si substrate 3, an insulating layer 4, a high-resistance Si substrate 5, and an Si photodiode 20 construct a hermetically sealed package for an InGaAs photodiode 30 placed within a recess 6, while an electric passage part 8 of the low-resistance Si substrate 3 and a wiring film 15 achieve electric wiring for the Si photodiode 20 and InGaAs photodiode 30. While a p-type region 22 of the Si photodiode 20 is disposed in a part on the rear face 21b side of an Si substrate 21, a p-type region 32 of the InGaAs photodiode 30 is disposed in a part on the front face 31a side of an InGaAs substrate 31.
US08564031B2 High voltage-resistant lateral double-diffused transistor based on nanowire device
The invention provides a high voltage-resistant lateral double-diffused transistor. The lateral double-diffused MOS transistor includes a channel region, a gate dielectric, a gate region, a source region, a drain region, a source end extension region and a drain end S-shaped drifting region, wherein the channel region has a lateral cylindrical silicon nanowire structure, on which a layer of gate dielectric is uniformly covered, the gate region is on the gate dielectric, the gate region and the gate dielectric completely surround the channel region, the source end extension region lies between the source region and the channel region, the drain end S-shaped drifting region lies between the drain region and the channel region, the plan view of the drain end S-shaped drifting region is in the form of single or multiple S-shaped structure(s), and an insulating material with a relative dielectric constant of 1-4 is filled within the S-shaped structure(s).
US08564027B2 Nano-devices formed with suspended graphene membrane
Semiconductor nano-devices, such as nano-probe and nano-knife devices, which are constructed using graphene films that are suspended between open cavities of a semiconductor structure. The suspended graphene films serve as electro-mechanical membranes that can be made very thin, from one or few atoms in thickness, to greatly improve the sensitivity and reliability of semiconductor nano-probe and nano-knife devices.
US08564024B2 Trench-based power semiconductor devices with increased breakdown voltage characteristics
Exemplary power semiconductor devices with features providing increased breakdown voltage and other benefits are disclosed.
US08564021B2 Semiconductor device and its manufacturing method
To suppress adverse affect caused by dopant in a conductive semiconductor layer in a GaN-based device having a structure in which the conductive semiconductor layer is inserted between a substrate and an active layer.In an HEMT device 10, n-GaN (n-type GaN wafer) is used as a substrate 11. A p-type GaN layer (conductive semiconductor layer) 12 is formed on the substrate 11 for the purpose of reducing a leak current and suppressing current collapse, etc. A non-doped AlN layer (semi-insulating semiconductor layer) 13 is formed on the p-type GaN layer 12, and a channel layer (active layer) 14 formed of semi-insulating GaN and an electron supply layer (active layer) 15 formed of n-AlGaN are sequentially formed by the MBE method, MOVPE method, or the like.
US08564020B2 Transistors and rectifiers utilizing hybrid electrodes and methods of fabricating the same
Systems, methods, and apparatus described herein are associated with devices including hybrid electrodes. A heterostructure semiconductor transistor can include a III-N-type semiconductor heterostructure including a barrier layer overlying an active layer and a hybrid electrode region including a hybrid drain electrode region. Further, a heterostructure semiconductor rectifier can include a III-N-type semiconductor heterostructure and a hybrid electrode region including a hybrid cathode electrode region. Furthermore, the hybrid electrode region of the transistor and rectifier can include permanently trapped charge located under a Schottky contact of the hybrid electrode region.
US08564019B2 Heterostructures comprising crystalline strain relaxation layers
The invention relates to a process for fabricating a heterostructure. This process is noteworthy in that it comprises the following steps: a) a strained crystalline thin film is deposited on, or transferred onto, an intermediate substrate; b) a strain relaxation layer, made of crystalline material capable of being plastically deformed by a heat treatment at a relaxation temperature at which the material constituting the thin film deforms by elastic deformation is deposited on the thin film; c) the thin film and the relaxation layer are transferred onto a substrate; and d) a thermal budget is applied at at least the relaxation temperature, so as to cause the plastic deformation of the relaxation layer and the at least partial relaxation of the thin film by elastic deformation, and thus to obtain the final heterostructure.
US08564017B2 Silicon carbide semiconductor device and method for manufacturing same
A drift layer has a thickness direction throughout which a current flows and has an impurity concentration N1d for a first conductivity type. A body region is provided on a portion of the drift layer, has a channel to be switched by a gate electrode, has an impurity concentration N1b for the first conductivity type, and has an impurity concentration N2b for the second conductivity type greater than the impurity concentration N1b. A JFET region is disposed adjacent to the body region on the drift layer, has an impurity concentration N1j for the first conductivity type, and has an impurity concentration N2j for the second conductivity type smaller than the impurity concentration N1j. N1j−N2j>N1d and N2j
US08564011B2 Light-emitting diode package structure
The present invention discloses a light-emitting diode (LED) package structure, which includes a housing, a first electrode plate, a second electrode plate, a light-emitting diode, and a voltage regulation diode. The housing has a top surface forming a cavity, and the cavity contains therein a wall that divides the cavity into a light emission section and a voltage regulation section. By separately arranging the light-emitting diode and the voltage regulation diode in two different sections of the light emission section and the voltage regulation section, the present invention prevents the voltage regulation diode from affecting light flux of the light-emitting diode by absorbing light, thereby enhancing overall lighting performance of the LED package structure.
US08564008B2 Light emitting device and light emitting device package
Provided are a light emitting device, a method for fabricating the light emitting device, a light emitting device package, and a lighting system. The light emitting device includes a first conductive type semiconductor layer having a first top surface and a second top surface under the first top surface, an active layer on the first top surface of the first conductive type semiconductor layer, a second conductive type semiconductor layer on the active layer, a first electrode on the second top surface of the first conductive type semiconductor layer, an intermediate refractive layer on the second top surface of the first conductive type semiconductor layer, and a second electrode connected to the second conductive type semiconductor layer.
US08564005B2 Light-emitting device package
A light-emitting device package including: a package main body including a cavity and a lead frame including a mounting portion disposed in the cavity and a plurality of terminal portions; a light-emitting device chip mounted on the mounting portion; a plurality of bonding wires for electrically connecting the plurality of terminal portions and the light-emitting device chip; a light-transmitting encapsulation layer filled in the cavity; and a light-transmitting cap member disposed in the cavity and blocking the encapsulation layer to contact the plurality of bonding wires.
US08564003B2 LED package
An LED package comprises a substrate, a reflector, a light-absorbable layer, an encapsulation layer and an LED chip. The reflector comprises a first incline with an inclined angle surrounding the LED chip. The light-absorbable layer comprises a second incline with another inclined angle direct to the LED chip, wherein the inclined angle of the second incline is greater than that of the first incline and the inclined angle of the first incline is between 90 to 150 degrees.
US08564000B2 Light emitting devices for light emitting diodes (LEDs)
Light emitting devices for light emitting diodes (LEDs) are disclosed. In one embodiment a light emitting device can include a substrate, one or more LEDs disposed over the substrate, and the LEDs can include electrical connectors for connecting to an electrical element. A light emitting device can further include a retention material disposed over the substrate and the retention material can be disposed over at least a portion of the electrical connectors. The LEDs can be connected in a pattern that is non-linear.
US08563998B2 Optoelectronic semiconductor component and method of producing an optoelectronic semiconductor component
An optoelectronic semiconductor component includes a connection support with a connection side, at least one optoelectronic semiconductor chip mounted on the connection side and electrically connected to the connection support, an adhesion-promoting intermediate film applied to the connection side and covering the latter at least in selected places, and at least one radiation-transmissive cast body which at least partially surrounds the semiconductor chip, the cast body being connected mechanically to the connection support by the intermediate film.
US08563996B2 Luminescent light source having blue light emitting diode chip and red light emitting diode chip
A luminescent light source including a blue light emitting diode (LED) chip, a red LED chip, and a wavelength converting material is provided. The blue LED chip and the red LED chip respectively emit a first light and a second light. A ratio of peak intensity of the second light to peak intensity of the first light ranges from 0.36 to 0.56. The wavelength converting material is disposed around the blue LED chip or the red LED chip and emits a third light. A wavelength of the third light ranges from a wavelength of the first light to a wavelength of the second light.
US08563992B2 Light emitting apparatus and multi-surface pattern substrate
A light emitting apparatus includes a belt-like substrate, a light emitting element mounted on the substrate, and a luminous flux control member mounted on the substrate. The substrate has a pair of fracture surfaces formed at predetermined intervals along a lengthwise direction and formed at both ends in a widthwise direction between luminous flux control members neighboring each other along the lengthwise direction, wherein dimensions W1 and W2 in the widthwise direction between the pair of fracture surfaces are less than a dimension in the widthwise direction of the luminous flux control member, and the dimension W2 in the widthwise direction of a part overlapping the luminous flux control member in a plan view is less than the dimension W1 in the widthwise direction between the pair of fracture surfaces.
US08563991B2 Optical semiconductor device, laser chip and laser module
An optical semiconductor device has a semiconductor substrate, an optical semiconductor region and a heater. The optical semiconductor region is provided on the semiconductor substrate and has a width smaller than that of the semiconductor substrate. The heater is provided on the optical semiconductor region. The optical semiconductor region has a cladding region, an optical waveguide layer and a low thermal conductivity layer. The optical waveguide layer is provided in the cladding region and has a refractive index higher than that of the cladding region. The low thermal conductivity layer is provided between the optical waveguide layer and the semiconductor substrate and has a thermal conductivity lower than that of the cladding region.
US08563987B2 Semiconductor device and method for fabricating the device
The semiconductor device 100 of this invention includes: a semiconductor layer 2 arranged on the principal surface of a substrate 1 and made of a wide bandgap semiconductor; a trench 5 which is arranged in the semiconductor layer 2 and which has a bottom and a side surface; an insulating region 11 arranged on the bottom and side surface of the trench 5; and a conductive layer 7 arranged in the trench 5 and insulated from the semiconductor layer 2 by the insulating region 11. The insulating region 11 includes a gate insulating film 6 arranged on the bottom and the side surface of the trench 5 and a gap 10 arranged between the gate insulating film 6 and the conductive layer 7 at the bottom of the trench 5. The gate insulating film 6 contacts with the conductive layer 7 on a portion of the side surface of the trench 5 but does not contact with the conductive layer 7 at the bottom of the trench 5. The thickness of the insulating region 11 measured from the bottom of the trench 5 through the lower surface of the conductive layer 7 is greater around the center of the trench than beside its side surface.
US08563986B2 Power semiconductor devices having selectively doped JFET regions and related methods of forming such devices
Semiconductor switching devices include a wide band-gap drift layer having a first conductivity type (e.g., n-type), and first and second wide band-gap well regions having a second conductivity type (e.g., p-type) on the wide band-gap drift layer. First and second wide band-gap source/drain regions of the first conductivity type are on the first and second wide band-gap well regions, respectively. A wide band-gap JFET region having the first conductivity type is provided between the first and second well regions. This JFET region includes a first local JFET region that is adjacent a side surface of the first well region and a second local JFET region that is adjacent a side surface of the second well region. The local JFET regions have doping concentrations that exceed a doping concentration of a central portion of the JFET region that is between the first and second local JFET regions of the JFET region.
US08563985B2 Light-emitting device and projector
A light-emitting device includes a first layer, a second layer, and a semiconductor body interposed between the first and second layers, wherein the semiconductor body has a first fine-wall-shape member, a second fine-wall-shape member, and a semiconductor member interposed between the first and second fine-wall-shape members, the first and second fine-wall-shape members have a third layer, a fourth layer, and a fifth layer interposed between the third and fourth layers, the fifth layer is a layer that generates light and guides the light, the third and fourth layers are layers that guide the light generated in the fifth layer, and the first and second layers are layers that suppress leakage of the light generated in the fifth layer.
US08563979B2 Method for producing display device
In a liquid crystal display device, a first substrate includes electrical wirings and a semiconductor integrated circuit which has TFTs and is connected electrically to the electrical wirings, and a second substrate includes a transparent conductive film on a surface thereof. A surface of the first substrate that the electrical wirings are formed is opposite to the transparent conductive film on the second substrate. Also, in a liquid crystal display device, a first substrate includes a matrix circuit and a peripheral driver circuit, and a second substrate is opposite to the first substrate. Spacers are provided between the first and second substrates. A seal material is formed outside the matrix circuits and the peripheral driver circuits in the first and second substrates. A protective film is formed on the peripheral driver circuit has substantially a thickness equivalent to an interval between the substrates which is formed by the spacers.
US08563972B2 Electroactive materials
There is provided an electroactive material having Formula I wherein: Q is the same or different at each occurrence and can be O, S, Se, Te, NR, SO, SO2, or SiR3; R is the same or different at each occurrence and can be hydrogen, alkyl, aryl, alkenyl, or alkynyl; R1 through R8 are the same or different and can be hydrogen, alkyl, aryl, halogen, hydroxyl, aryloxy, alkoxy, alkenyl, alkynyl, amino, alkylthio, phosphino, silyl, —COR, —COOR, —PO3R2, —OPO3R2, or CN.
US08563965B2 Doped graphene electronic materials
A graphene substrate is doped with one or more functional groups to form an electronic device.
US08563959B2 Resistive-switching memory element
A resistive-switching memory element is described. The memory element includes a first electrode, a porous layer over the first electrode including a point defect embedded in a plurality of pores of the porous layer, and a second electrode over the porous layer, wherein the nonvolatile memory element is configured to switch between a high resistive state and a low resistive state.
US08563955B2 Passive terahertz radiation source
The invention concerns a passive terahertz radiation source configured to emit electromagnetic radiation having frequency in the range of 10 GHz to 50 THz and a method for generating a terahertz radiation. The passive terahertz radiation source comprises: a source of a pulsed excitation light; an emitter comprising one or more emitter elements, each emitter element comprising a semiconductor layer being arranged such that at least a portion of a first major surface of said semiconductor layer is exposed to the excitation light, wherein each emitter element is configured such that upon exposure to the excitation light, a gradient of the charge carrier density is generated in the semiconductor layer in the area of transition between a first area of the semiconductor layer and a second area of the semiconductor layer, the gradient being substantially parallel to the first major surface of the semiconductor layer.
US08563954B2 Ion beam stabilization
Ion microscope methods and systems are disclosed. In general, the systems and methods provide high ion beam stability.
US08563952B2 Charged particle beam writing apparatus
A charged particle beam writing apparatus, includes a unit to input information about a stripe region height, and to judge, when a write region is divided into stripe regions in a thin rectangular shape by the stripe region height, whether a height of a last stripe region is narrower than the stripe region height; and a unit to divide the write region into stripe regions in the thin rectangular shape in such a way that the last stripe region and a stripe region prior to the last stripe region are combined to create one stripe region and stripe regions at least two stripe regions prior to the last stripe region are each created as stripe regions of the stripe region height if the height of the last stripe region is narrower than the stripe region height.
US08563949B2 Fluoroperovskite radiation dosimeters and storage phosphors
This invention provides phosphor-doped fluoroperovskite compounds that are capable of storing at least part of the energy of incident ionizing radiation and releasing at least part of the stored energy upon optical stimulation or heating. Also provided are dosimeters and radiation storage devices comprising the compounds, methods of preparing the compounds, and methods of using the compounds to determine a dose of ionizing radiation or to record and reproduce an ionizing radiation image.
US08563943B2 Particle beam irradiation apparatus, particle beam therapy system, and data display program
A particle beam irradiation apparatus There is provided a data processing apparatus that displays on a display unit a measured irradiation position value and an irradiation position value error, which is the error of the measured irradiation position relevant value related to the irradiation position of charged particle beam with respect to a desired irradiation position value related to a desired irradiation position, so that the measured irradiation position relevant value and the irradiation position relevant value error correspond to each other. The data processing apparatus displays a desired value display figure indicating a desired irradiation position relevant value at the coordinates of the desired irradiation position value and a measured value display figure at display coordinates, which are coordinates obtained by adding the desired irradiation position value to the coordinates acquired by arithmetically operating an irradiation position value error with deformation coefficients, and displays a line that connects the measured value display figure with the desired value display figure.
US08563936B2 Bidimensional dosimetric detector
Bidimensional dosimetric detector, comprising: a monolithic base-matrix (1) made of homoepitaxial silicon with a surface for exposition to the radiation, a plurality of radiation-sensible junction diodes (2) for producing a plurality of electrical signals in response to the radiation, electrical terminals (3) connected to said diodes for feeding said produced electrical signals to an acquisition and processing unit (5), wherein the perimeter of one or more said diodes is defined by a boundary region of the electrical field of same diode.
US08563931B2 System for providing a calibration for a testing device used to evaluate ethanol production yield, and associated method
A system with a first analytical testing device configured collect a first and second signal associated with a characteristic parameter of a sample material, wherein the characteristic parameter is capable of enabling evaluation of ethanol production yield for plant material corresponding to the sample material. A drying unit is configured to drive the sample material to a substantially standard moisture level. A fermentation unit is configured to ferment the sample material. A second analytical testing device is configured to collect a reference measurement associated with the characteristic parameter. The reference measurement is capable of being correlated to the first and second signals for building a calibration model used to evaluate ethanol production yield of plant material corresponding in composition to the sample material. Associated methods are also provided.
US08563930B2 System and method of modulating electrical signals using photoconductive wide bandgap semiconductors as variable resistors
A system and method for producing modulated electrical signals. The system uses a variable resistor having a photoconductive wide bandgap semiconductor material construction whose conduction response to changes in amplitude of incident radiation is substantially linear throughout a non-saturation region to enable operation in non-avalanche mode. The system also includes a modulated radiation source, such as a modulated laser, for producing amplitude-modulated radiation with which to direct upon the variable resistor and modulate its conduction response. A voltage source and an output port, are both operably connected to the variable resistor so that an electrical signal may be produced at the output port by way of the variable resistor, either generated by activation of the variable resistor or propagating through the variable resistor. In this manner, the electrical signal is modulated by the variable resistor so as to have a waveform substantially similar to the amplitude-modulated radiation.
US08563924B2 Windowless ionization device
An ionization device comprises: a plasma source configured to generate a plasma. The plasma comprises light, plasma ions and plasma electrons. The plasma source comprises an aperture disposed such that at least part of the light passes through the aperture and is incident on a gas sample. The ionization device further comprises an ionization region; and a plasma deflection device comprising a plurality of electrodes configured to establish an electric field, wherein the electric field substantially prevents the plasma ions from entering the ionization region.
US08563922B2 Methods for detecting dihydrotestosterone by mass spectrometry
Provided are methods for determining the amount of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in a sample using mass spectrometry. The methods generally involve ionizing DHT in a sample and detecting and quantifying the amount of the ion to determine the amount of DHT in the sample.
US08563919B2 Dynamic flow imaging phantom and model therefor
A phantom for simulation of perfusion, for use in dynamic flow imaging. The phantom includes a first compartment having a first inlet and a first outlet, and a second compartment having a second outlet. The first and the second compartments have fluid communication with each other, to simulate perfusion between the first and the second compartments. The first and the second outlets are separately controllable to adjust outflow of fluid from each compartment and to adjust fluid pressure in each compartment, thereby controlling rates of communication of fluids between the first and the second compartments.
US08563918B2 Laser hammering technique for aligning members of a constructed array of optoelectronic devices
A parallel transceiver includes a constructed array of dice. The constructed array comprises an integer number of dies that each have an integer number of optoelectronic devices arranged on the die. Each die forming the constructed array is attached to a respective tab of a shim that is fixed to a first lead frame. Each tab includes a bridge region and a mounting region. Each die is attached to a respective mounting region of a corresponding tab. When necessary, a laser hammering technique is performed whereby laser generated energy is applied along an axis in the bridge region of the shim to adjust the position of the optoelectronic devices on the die attached to the tab in one or more directions relative to the axis.
US08563917B2 Projector apparatus having a cooling arrangement which enables the apparatus to have a low profile
A projector apparatus includes: an air intake port taking external air into the body of the apparatus; a duct guiding the external air taken in through the air intake port; a filter horizontally disposed in the duct; and a fan supplying the external air to a heat-generating part from underneath after the external air passes through the filter.
US08563915B2 Imaging apparatus, imaging system, method of controlling the apparatus and the system, and program
An imaging apparatus includes a conversion unit including a plurality of pixels arranged in a matrix, each pixel including a conversion element, an output switch element, and an initialization switch element; an output drive circuit controls an output operation; an initialization drive circuit controls an initialization operation; and a readout circuit performs a signal sample-and-hold operation and a reset operation. A control unit performs termination of the output operation of a certain row and start of the output operation of another row after the termination of the reset operation, the start of the signal sample-and-hold operation after the termination of the output operation of the certain row and the start of the output operation of the other row, the start of the reset operation and the initialization operation after the termination of the signal sample-and-hold operation, and the termination of the reset operation after the termination of the initialization operation.
US08563913B2 Imaging systems having ray corrector, and associated methods
In an embodiment, a low height imaging system has: one or more optical channels and a detector array, each of the optical channels (a) associated with at least one detector of the array, (b) having one or more optical components and a restrictive ray corrector, and (c) configured to direct steeper incident angle field rays onto the at least one detector.
US08563909B2 Automatic re-initialization of resonant sensors in rocket and missile guidance systems
An apparatus and method improves the fault tolerance of a rocket or missile guidance system which includes a resonant sensor. When improper initialization is detected, the resonant sensor is reinitialized, repeatedly if necessary, until normal operation is achieved. Improper initialization is detected by comparing data from the guidance system with pre-specified physical limits to roll, pitch, yaw, and/or other features of the flight scenario. Embodiments can also detect a fault condition due to an error signal from a “Built-in-Test” (BIT) module. The initialization sequence initiated by the invention can be identical to the power-on sequence, or it can be a separate, reinitiating sequence. Subsequent resets are initiated as needed, for example until the burn of the rocket fuel and the associated vibrations have ceased and the resonant sensor has been successfully initialized.
US08563908B1 Methods and systems for threat engagement management
Sensor(s) may be used to detect threat data. A processing system and/or a method may be used to fuse the detected threat data over time. Threat data may comprise information on a munition, missile, rocket, or nuclear/biological/chemical (NBC) projectile or delivery system. Detected threat data may be processed to create a target track-lethality list comprising the locations of any target(s) and a ranking of their lethality in comparison to decoys or chaff. The target track-lethality list may be used to create a target engagement-track list that matches available threat elimination resources (e.g. interceptors) to targets with a weapon-to-target assignment module.
US08563907B2 Radiopharmaceutical heater
A radiopharmaceutical heater includes a heat-transfer member having a receptacle defined therein to receive a container (e.g., a vial). The heat-transfer member has a thermal conductivity greater than about 100 W/(mK) A radiation shield is disposed about the heat-transfer member wherein the radiation shield comprises lead, tungsten, tungsten-impregnated plastic, depleted uranium, or any combination thereof. A heating element is in thermal communication with the heat-transfer member wherein at least a portion of the heating element is located within the radiation shield. The heater includes compliant heat-transfer member shaped to receive the container.
US08563901B2 Method and apparatus for top heat bake assist in a gas oven appliance
A method and apparatus are described for providing top heat to assist with baking in an oven appliance having a gas bake burner. The top heat is provided by a heating element positioned in the top of the oven cavity. This top heating element is operated in a manner that assists the bottom, gas bake burner with properly browning the food on both its top and bottom. The operation of the both the top heating element and the gas bake burner can be varied to provide proper cooking and browning based upon e.g., the type of food being cooked, the amount of food being cooked, and the level of browning desired.
US08563898B1 Detection and removal of snow and ice on a lens of a light emitting diode lighting fixture
A light emitting diode (LED) lighting fixture has monitoring and control circuits that sense when a freezing condition is present that could result in ice and/or snow accumulation on a lens of the LED lighting fixture, thereby reducing the light output therefrom. Heat may be supplied to the lens from a transparent resistive coating thereon, an internal space heater and/or increased power dissipate from the LEDs.
US08563891B2 Welding assembly and method
A welding assembly including a current generator, an electrode electrically coupled to the current generator, the electrode including a first engagement surface, and a workpiece including at least two members, wherein at least one of the members includes a second engagement surface, defines a recess in the second engagement surface, and is electrically coupled to the current generator.
US08563884B2 Manual reset pressure switch
A switching device including a plurality of electrical switches, and an activation lever adapted to substantially simultaneously change the switches from a first state to a second state in response to a single physical input.
US08563877B2 Frame
A frame of modular form for cable entries, pipe penetrations or the like is disclosed. The frame comprises at least two identical end modules. Depending on the desired dimensions, one or more intermediate module is placed between the end modules. The modules form at least one opening to receive the cable entries, pipe penetrations or the like. The frame may cover the openings of the frame before the cables, pipes or the like are received.
US08563876B1 Cable holding outlet box
An electrical box assembly that is supplied with electricity by an external electrical cord and which in turn supplies electricity to a nearby wall-mounted outlet box. The electrical box assembly includes a cord grip mount that accepts a cord grip fitting for securing the electrical cord to the assembly and sealing around the connected electrical cord. The electrical box assembly may include connecting points for a low voltage scoop to provide a passageway for routing coax cable to the nearby outlet box. The electrical box assembly is especially useful for supplying electrical power to a wall-mounted TV while minimizing disruption of adjacent wall surfaces and underlying studs.
US08563874B2 Electromagnetic interference shielding arrangement
An electromagnetic interference shielding arrangement comprises a first and a second electro-conductive components that are arranged to be joined. The first electro-conductive component includes a first electro-conductive contact surface. The second electro-conductive component includes a second electro-conductive contact surface and a shielding member extending from the second electro conductive component at a location adjacent the second electro-conductive surface. The arrangement is such that, in the joined configuration of the first and the second electro-conductive components the first and the second electro-conductive surfaces abut to create an electro conductive engagement region that is adjacent the shielding member.
US08563869B2 Circuit board and semiconductor module using this, production method for circuit board
A circuit board and a semiconductor module with high endurance against thermal cycles, and which is hard to be broken under thermal cycles, even if thick metal circuit board and thick metal heat sink are used, corresponding to high power operation of a semiconductor chip are provided. This circuit board includes, an insulating-ceramic substrate, a metal circuit plate bonded to one face of the insulating-ceramic substrate, a metal heat sink bonded to another face of the insulating-ceramic substrate, wherein (t12−t22)/tc2/K<1.5, where, a thickness of the insulating ceramics substrate is tc, a thickness of the metal circuit plate is t1, a thickness of the metal heat sink is t2, and an internal fracture toughness value of the insulating ceramics substrate is K.
US08563866B2 Protector and wire harness
This invention is to provide a protector capable of discharging water into an outside and a wire harness including the protector.A drainage hole is formed as a portion so as to discharge water collecting in an electrical wire receiving portion into an outside. The drainage hole is formed so as to penetrate through the electrical wire receiving portion and toward the rear of a vehicle. Further, the drainage hole is formed so as to gradually slope from the electrical wire receiving portion toward the ground surface. The drainage hole is a through hole which is formed at a position near an end portion of a protection member for the vehicle interior. The drainage hole is formed and located in a portion of the wire harness which is the closest to the ground surface.
US08563865B2 Flat wire shielded pair and cable
Novel shielded flat wire pair and cable implement flat, smooth conductors coated with insulation bonded together, providing rectangular cross-sections and equidistant, smooth surfaces for high frequency signal current flow. Flat wire pairs with conductive covers and symmetrically placed shield conductors in grooves between flat wires minimize intra-pair signal flow skew. Shielded flat wire pairs are placed within a cable assembly with adjacent wire pairs oriented orthogonally, minimizing crosstalk and rendering crosstalk common-mode. Such orientation of flat wire pairs is assisted by an internal separator, which may be electrically conductive and grounded providing enhanced pair to pair isolation. Presence of flat wire pairs and an internal separator in a cable positions additional single wires in the cable firmly against a grounded external shield, ensuring a predetermined impedance for these signal wires. Shielded flat wire pairs and cables of low metal content extend electrical signaling to the millimeter wave regimes.
US08563863B2 Flexible tubing with improved signal transmission and method of making
A smooth-bore plastic tubing with an outer helical support bead is resistant to collapse and incorporates plural conductors disposed outside of the tubing bore and insulated both from ambient and from one another. The conductors may have a desired relatively high thermal conductivity to tidal air flow within the tubing, while also having a comparatively high thermal resistance to ambient. The conductors may be electrical conductors, or may include fiber optic conductors as well in the same tubing structure. A method for making the tubing includes extruding a molten thermoplastic ribbon with an elevated plateau portion defining at least one conductor-receiving groove. The plastic ribbon is wrapped to form a tube and at least one conductor is embedded in the groove of the plateau portion. Finally a molten thermoplastic bead is then applied atop the plateau portion and atop of the embedded conductor providing a unitary flexible tubing structure with substantially smooth inside and outside surfaces free of crevices which could retain soil or bacteria.
US08563862B2 Bus bar
The present invention relates to a bus bar having a plate-shaped main body, a wire connection projecting from the edge of one end of the main body, a tuning fork shaped first terminal projecting from the edge of the other end thereof and including a groove in which a terminal of electronic components is pressed, second terminal projecting from the edge, and third terminal projecting from the edge. The second and third terminals are arranged so that the first terminal is positioned between the second and third terminals. The second terminal projects from the main body longer than the first terminal, and the third terminal projects from the main body shorter than the first terminal. Further, the tip of the first terminal is positioned on the inside of a virtual starlight line P connecting the tip of the second terminal with the tip of the third terminal.
US08563858B2 Slide mechanism
A system including a plate; at least one guide coupled to the plate; and a slide coupled to the at least one guide. The slide includes a first arm constrained by the at least one guide; and a second arm coupled to the first arm. The slide can be moved along the at least one guide.
US08563857B2 Old construction box
An old construction box that is combined with an adapter clip to securely anchor the construction box with an opening provided in a finished wall surface.
US08563853B2 Solar cell device
A solar cell device is provided, including a transparent substrate, a transparent conductive layer disposed over the transparent substrate, a photovoltaic element formed over the composite transparent conductive layer, and an electrode layer disposed over the photovoltaic element. In one embodiment, the transparent conductive layer includes lithium and fluorine-co-doped tin oxides, and the lithium and fluorine-co-doped tin oxides includes a plurality of polyhedron grains, and the polyhedron grains have a polyhedron grain distribution density of 60-95%.
US08563847B2 Illumination agnostic solar panel
In one example, a photovoltaic module includes a plurality of discrete photovoltaic cells arranged in a plurality of cell rows, and a substantially electrically conductive and continuous area backsheet. The photovoltaic cells in each cell row are electrically connected in parallel to each other. The cell rows are electrically connected in series to each other and include a first row and a last row. The backsheet forms a current return path between the first and last rows. The photovoltaic cells are configured such that, in operation, current flows substantially uni-directionally through the plurality of photovoltaic cells between the first row and the last row.
US08563845B2 Adaptive solar powered system
An apparatus for powering a load from solar energy comprises a DC/DC converter, battery terminals coupled to an output of the DC/DC converter and coupleable to an energy storage device, and solar panel terminals coupled to an input of the DC/DC converter and coupleable to a solar panel. Logic is coupled to the converter to control its conversion rate. A detector is coupled to the converter and detects its power output. The logic is operable to adjust the conversion rate until the solar panel operates at the smaller of a maximum power point of the solar panel and a power point of the solar panel that results in a maximum desired power.
US08563838B1 Inbred sunflower (Helianthus annuus) line, designated OI7443A/B
The present invention relates to an inbred sunflower line, designated OI7443A/B. The invention relates to the seeds of inbred sunflower line OI7443A/B, to the plants of inbred sunflower line OI7443A/B and to the methods for producing a sunflower plant, either inbred or hybrid, by crossing the inbred line OI7443A/B with itself or another sunflower line. The invention further relates to methods for producing a sunflower plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic plants produced by that method and to methods for producing other inbred sunflower lines derived from the inbred OI7443A/B.
US08563837B1 Inbred sunflower (Helianthus annuus) line, designated CIN683A/B
The present invention relates to an inbred sunflower line, designated CIN683A/B. The invention relates to the seeds of inbred sunflower line CIN683A/B, to the plants of inbred sunflower line CIN683A/B and to the methods for producing a sunflower plant, either inbred or hybrid, by crossing the inbred line CIN683A/B with itself or another sunflower line. The invention further relates to methods for producing a sunflower plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic plants produced by that method and to methods for producing other inbred sunflower lines derived from the inbred CIN683A/B.
US08563835B1 Maize variety inbred PH10MS
A novel maize variety designated PH10MS and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH10MS with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH10MS 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 PH10MS or a locus conversion of PH10MS with another maize variety.
US08563834B1 Hybrid corn variety 570007
The invention provides seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated 570007. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety 570007, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety 570007 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety 570007.
US08563828B1 Inbred maize variety PH17C4
A novel maize variety designated PH17C4 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH17C4 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH17C4 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 PH17C4 or a locus conversion of PH17C4 with another maize variety.
US08563827B2 Mutagenized tobacco plant as seed culture for the production of oil for energetic, industrial and alimentary uses
The present invention relates to the development of tobacco plants, modified through mutagenesis techniques, interspecific hybridisation followed by poliploidisation and recombinant DNA technologies, characterised by the fact of being capable of producing a very high amount of seeds and their use for the production of oil for energetic and industrial scopes, such as combustion oil, biodiesel and lubricating oil, and for animal and human alimentation.
US08563825B1 Soybean cultivar 5571721658
A soybean cultivar designated 5571721658 is disclosed. Embodiments of the invention include the seeds of soybean 5571721658, the plants of soybean 5571721658, to plant parts of soybean 5571721658, and methods for producing a soybean plant produced by crossing soybean 5571721658 with itself or with another soybean variety. Embodiments of the invention include methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more genes or transgenes and the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. Embodiments of the invention also relate to soybean cultivars, breeding cultivars, plant parts, and cells derived from soybean 5571721658, methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines or plant parts derived from soybean 5571721658, and the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. Embodiments of the invention further include hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing 5571721658 with another soybean cultivar.
US08563824B1 Soybean cultivar 6008121658
A soybean cultivar designated 6008121658 is disclosed. Embodiments of the invention include the seeds of soybean 6008121658, the plants of soybean 6008121658, to plant parts of soybean 6008121658, and methods for producing a soybean plant produced by crossing soybean 6008121658 with itself or with another soybean variety. Embodiments of the invention include methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more genes or transgenes and the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. Embodiments of the invention also relate to soybean cultivars, breeding cultivars, plant parts, and cells derived from soybean 6008121658, methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines or plant parts derived from soybean 6008121658, and the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. Embodiments of the invention further include hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing 6008121658 with another soybean cultivar.
US08563823B1 Soybean cultivar 5677250112
A soybean cultivar designated 5677250112 is disclosed. Embodiments of the invention include the seeds of soybean 5677250112, the plants of soybean 5677250112, to plant parts of soybean 5677250112, and methods for producing a soybean plant produced by crossing soybean 5677250112 with itself or with another soybean variety. Embodiments of the invention include methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more genes or transgenes and the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. Embodiments of the invention also relate to soybean cultivars, breeding cultivars, plant parts, and cells derived from soybean 5677250112, methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines or plant parts derived from soybean 5677250112, and the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. Embodiments of the invention further include hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing 5677250112 with another soybean cultivar.
US08563821B2 Soybean variety XB14N12
A novel soybean variety, designated XB14N12 is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XB14N12, cells from soybean variety XB14N12, plants of soybean XB14N12, and plant parts of soybean variety XB14N12. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XB14N12 with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic trait, a mutant trait, and/or a native trait into soybean variety XB14N12, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XB14N12, and methods of characterizing soybean variety XB14N12. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XB14N12 are further provided.
US08563820B1 Soybean cultivar CL0911650
The present invention is in the field of soybean variety CL0911650-1 breeding and development. The present invention particularly relates to the soybean variety CL0911650-1 and its progeny, and methods of making CL0911650-1.
US08563816B1 Soybean variety XBP34005
A novel soybean variety, designated XBP34005 is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XBP34005, cells from soybean variety XBP34005, plants of soybean XBP34005, and plant parts of soybean variety XBP34005. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XBP34005 with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic trait, a mutant trait, and/or a native trait into soybean variety XBP34005, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XBP34005, and methods of characterizing soybean variety XBP34005. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XBP34005 are further provided.
US08563813B2 Soybean variety XB009K11
A novel soybean variety, designated XB009K11 is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XB009K11, cells from soybean variety XB009K11, plants of soybean XB009K11, and plant parts of soybean variety XB009K11. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XB009K11 with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic trait, a mutant trait, and/or a native trait into soybean variety XB009K11, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XB009K11, and methods of characterizing soybean variety XB009K11. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XB009K11 are further provided.
US08563812B2 Soybean cultivar 2393321658
A soybean cultivar designated 2393321658 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar 2393321658, to the plants of soybean 2393321658, to plant parts of soybean cultivar 2393321658, and to methods for producing a soybean plant produced by crossing soybean cultivar 2393321658 with itself or with another soybean variety. 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. This invention also relates to soybean cultivars, or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean variety 2393321658, to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 2393321658, 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 the cultivar 2393321658 with another soybean cultivar.
US08563811B2 Canola cultivar DN040845A
The present invention relates to a new and distinctive canola cultivar, designated DN040845A. Also included are seeds of canola cultivar DN040845A, to the plants, or plant parts, of canola DN040845A and to methods for producing a canola plant produced by crossing the canola DN040845A with itself or another canola cultivar, and the creation of variants by mutagenesis or transformation of canola DN040845A.
US08563810B2 Canola cultivar DN040244A
The present invention relates to a new and distinctive canola cultivar, designated DN040244A. Also included are seeds of canola cultivar DN040244A, to the plants, or plant parts, of canola DN040244A and to methods for producing a canola plant produced by crossing the canola DN040244A with itself or another canola cultivar, and the creation of variants by mutagenesis or transformation of canola DN040244A.
US08563807B2 Hybrid spinach variety Andromeda
The invention provides a new and distinct hybrid variety of spinach, NUN 0002 SP or Andromeda F1, which is characterized by producing high quality leaves for the fresh market and/or the processing industry.
US08563798B2 Enclosing bandage for providing comfortable wound care and limiting fluid leakage
A bandage for improved wound care is disclosed. The bandage comprises a non-adherent, deformable inner layer, a leak-proof outer layer that is substantially coextensive with the inner layer, and an absorbent middle layer contacting both the inner and outer layers. An adhesive strip and adhesive tabs along the bandage's side attach and adjust the fit of the bandage to securely hold the absorbent layer in contact with the wound, without any adhesive touching the skin, thereby eliminating pain and discomfort upon removal or replacement. The bandage allows substantial freedom of motion without slipping. The adhesive strip and tabs secure the bandage in place without any adhesive touching the skin, thereby providing convenience and causing no pain or discomfort upon removal or replacement of the bandage. The bandage may use a non-stick netting material layer to improve patient comfort, and elastic cuffs to improve fit and leakage.
US08563797B2 Method for safely disposing medicines
A method for safely disposing of medicines includes converting the medicines into a partially solid mass that may be incinerated. The medicines may be treated with a bittering agent capable of denaturing the stored medicines and with a coloring agent capable of providing a characteristic color to the denatured medicines. The medicines may also be treated with a thickening agent that is capable of converting the denatured medicines into a partially solid disposable mass, prior to incinerating the medicines.
US08563796B2 Encapsulating composition for the storage of waste that is toxic to health and/or the environment, which is devoid of an aromatic amine hardening agent
The invention relates to a coating composition for the storage or containment of waste that is toxic to health and/or the environment, comprising a composition based on an epoxy resin and a curing composition free from an aromatic amine curing agent. The invention also relates to the use of this composition for the coating of said waste.
US08563793B2 Integrated processes for propylene production and recovery
Processes utilizing the integration of (i) processes and the associated equipment used to purify and recover propylene from propane- and/or C4+-containing refinery hydrocarbon streams, with (ii) catalytic dehydrogenation are disclosed. This integration allows for elimination of some or all of the conventional fractionation section of the dehydrogenation process, normally used to purify propylene from unconverted propane in the reactor effluent. Significant capital and utility savings are therefore attained.
US08563792B2 Systems and methods of generating renewable diesel
A method of manufacturing a purified renewable diesel product from a biofeedstock includes filtering the biofeedstock, heating the biofeedstock to about 520° F., introducing hydrogen into the biofeedstock, and treating the biofeedstock in a reactor to generate a renewable diesel product. Additionally, the method includes cooling the renewable diesel product wherein the renewable diesel product comprises a liquid, separating vapors from the liquid, and distilling the liquid in a distillation column to generate the purified renewable diesel product. In at least one embodiment the biofeedstock comprises at least one of waste grease, tallow, algae, algal oil, vegetable oil, and soybean oil.
US08563787B2 Preparation of homoallyl alcohols in the presence of noncovalently supported ionic liquid phase catalysts under gas-phase reaction conditions
Process for preparing homoallyl alcohols by catalyzed reaction of alkenes with aldehydes or ketones, wherein the reaction is carried out in the gas phase in the presence of noncovalently supported ionic liquid phase catalysts.
US08563784B2 Catalytic method of manufacture of compounds of the diol type
The invention relates to a catalytic method for the industrial production of a diol compound, such as 2-methyl-2-4-pentanediol, also called 2,4-hexylene glycol (HGL), from a β-hydroxy carbonyl compound, Formula (I), in particular diacetone alcohol (DAA).
US08563783B2 Method of producing lower alcohols from glycerol
This invention relates generally to a process for value-added processing of fats and oils to yield glycerol and glycerol derivatives. More particularly, the process converts glycerol to acetol and then acetol to propylene glycol to produce a propylene glycol with ultra-low amounts of ethylene glycol. The propylene glycol thus produced may be used as an antifreeze, deicing compound, or anti-icing compound.
US08563781B2 Process for preparing ketones, in particular macrocyclic ketones
Ketones of the formula II where A is optionally alkyl-substituted C2-C12-alkanediyl, R1 and R2 are each, independently of one another, C1-C6-alkyl, or R1 and R2 together form optionally alkyl-substituted C3-C10-alkanediyl, and R3 is hydrogen or C1-C6-alkyl, are prepared by reacting a cyclic olefin of the formula I with dinitrogen monoxide to form the ketone of the formula II. The ketone of the formula II can be further hydrogenated to form the saturated ketone of the formula III. Macrocyclic ketones of the formula III, e.g. muscone, are sought after as fragrances.
US08563780B2 Allyl and propargyl ethers
Allyl and propargyl ethers of the formula X—C(R1)(R2)—O—C(CH3)(R3)—OCH3 (I), wherein X is an ethynyl or vinyl group, R1 is methyl or ethyl, R2 is a saturated or unsaturated linear or cyclic aliphatic hydrocarbon residue and R3 is methyl or ethyl, a method for their preparation and their use in the manufacture of β-ketoallenes, α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds and γ,δ-unsaturated ketones.
US08563775B2 Process for the preparation of (R)-(−)-3-(carbamoylmethyl)-5-methylhexanoic acid and of pregabalin and synthesis intermediates
This invention relates to the preparation of (R)-(−)-3-(carbamoylmethyl)-5-methylhexanoic acid, in particular, the resolution of the acid racemate by means of salification with optically active amines and subsequent acidification to give the (R) enantiomer of the acid; this invention also concerns the salt intermediates formed with said amines and the conversion of said (R)-(−)-3-(carbamoylmethyl)-5-methylhexanoic acid into biologically active molecules such as pregabalin.
US08563767B2 Method for producing isocyanates in the gas phase
An isocyanate is produced by continuously reacting an amine with phosgene in the presence of an inert substance in the gas phase. In this process, a phosgene-containing stream and a stream containing both the amine and the inert substance are fed into a reactor. The molar ratio of the inert substance to the amino groups in the stream is greater than 0 but less than 45 mol %. This molar ratio changes by no more than 99% during a 20 minute period.
US08563765B2 Diamino acid derivative starting material, manufacturing method thereof, and diamino acid derivative manufacturing method
Provided is an efficient technology for synthesizing diamino acids (diamino acid derivatives). Disclosed is a manufacturing method for diamino acid derivatives wherein the fluorenyl groups of the diamino acid derivative starting materials represented by General Formula [II] or [IV] are removed.
US08563759B2 Process for extracting lipids from microalgae
A process for extracting lipids from microalgae; the process involves pretreating a quantity of non-homogenized microalgae with an aliphatic alcohol for a predetermined period of time. The pretreatment liberates a substantial portion of lipids from the microalgae without requiring energy intensive cell membrane disruptive technologies. The liberated lipids are then treated with a transesterification reagent to form fatty acid methyl esters. The fatty acid methyl esters are separated from the resulting mixture and may be further purified to remove remaining solvents or other impurities. The fatty acid methyl esters produced by the process are suitable as a green energy biodiesel product.
US08563758B2 Method of synthesis of substituted hexitols such as dianhydrogalactitol
The present invention provides an efficient method of synthesizing and purifying dianhydrohexitols such as dianhydrogalactitol. In general, as applied to dianhydrogalactitol, the method comprises: (1) reacting dulcitol with a concentrated solution of hydrobromic acid at a temperature of about 80° C. to produce dibromogalactitol; (2) reacting the dibromogalactitol with potassium carbonate in t-butanol to produce dianhydrogalactitol; and (3) purifying the dianhydrogalactitol using a slurry of ethyl ether to produce purified dianhydrogalactitol.
US08563755B2 Process for preparing [1S-[1-α, 2-α, 3-β(1S*,2R*) 5-β]]-3-[7-[2-(3,4-difluorophenyl)-cyclopropylamino]-5-(propylthio)-3H-1,2,3-triazolo [4,5-d] pyrimidin-3-yl]-5-(2-hydroxyethoxy) cyclopentane-1,2-diol and to its intermediates
The present invention is directed to a process for preparing [1S-[1α,2α,3β(1S*,2R*),5β]]-3-[7-[2-(3,4-difluorophenyl)-cyclopropylamino]-5-(propylthio)-3H-1,2,3-triazolo[4,5-d]pyrimidin-3-yl]-5-(2-hydroxyethoxy)cyclopentane-1,2-diol and to intermediates useful in the process.
US08563754B2 Compounds, compositions and methods for preventing skin darkening
A method for preventing hyperpigmented skin, undesired pigmentation disorder of skin, or undesired darkening of skin using coumarin compounds, the use of such compounds, and compositions and formulations thereof are disclosed. In a particular embodiment, the coumarin compounds are selected from robustic acid methyl ether, scandenin, and coumophos. The compounds may be prepared as additives to pharmaceutical and cosmetic compositions, and in personal care products such as antiperspirants. In a particular embodiment extends to an antiperspirant product containing a skin darkening inhibitory amount of a compound of the invention. Also, the present skin darkening compounds may be prepared in combination with each other. The compounds, compositions and formulations of the invention may be used for the prevention of the onset or progression of conditions characterized by unwanted skin darkening, including those that may be causally related to aberrant melanogenesis activity including, by way of non-limiting example, hyperpigmentation and others.
US08563752B2 Process for the production of carnitine by cycloaddition
The invention relates to a method for the production of L-carnitine, wherein a chiral β-lactone carnitine precursor is obtained by a [2+2] cycloaddition of ketene with an aldehyde X—CH2—CHO, wherein X is selected from Cl, Br, I and trimethylamine, in the presence of a chiral catalyst.
US08563750B2 Forms of [R-(R*,R*)]-2-(4-fluorophenyl)-β,δ-dihydroxy-5-(1-methylethyl)-3-phenyl-4-[(phenylmino)carbonyl]-1H-pyrrole-1-heptanoic acid calcium salt (2:1)
Novel forms of [R—(R*,R*)]-2-(4-fluorophenyl)-β,δ-dihydroxy-5-(1-methylethyl)-3-phenyl-4-[(phenylamino)carbonyl]-1H-pyrrole-1-heptanoic acid hemi calcium salt designated Form XX, Form XXI, Form XXII, Form XXIII, Form XXIV, Form XXV, Form XXVI, Form XXVII, Form XXVIII, Form XXIX, and Form XXX, characterized by their X-ray powder diffraction, solid-state NMR, and/or Raman spectroscopy are described, as well as methods for the preparation and pharmaceutical composition of the same, which are useful as agents for treating hyperlipidemia, hypercholesterolemia, osteoporosis, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and Alzheimer's disease.
US08563749B2 Process for preparing substituted 1,3-dihydro-2H-indol-2-ones
Process for preparing 1,3-dihydro-2H-indol-2-ones, starting from thioalkyl-, or thiocycloalkyl-substituted indol-2-one compounds, involving a) dissolving or suspending the thioalkyl-, or thiocycloalkyl-substituted indol-2-one compounds in a polar solvent, b) adding a sulfur-containing salt to the solution or suspension, and c) heating the reaction mixture under reflux at a temperature which corresponds at most to the boiling temperature of the solvent. Use of the inventively prepared 1,3-dihydro-2H-indol-2-one as intermediates for the synthesis of fine chemicals and active ingredients from pharmacy and/or agriculture.
US08563748B2 Process for preparing substituted N-phenylhydroxylamines
The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of a ring-substituted N-phenylhydroxylamine by reduction of the correspondingly substituted nitrobenzene compound, wherein the reduction is carried out by reacting the substituted nitrobenzene compound with hydrazine in the presence of a ruthenium catalyst.
US08563746B2 Cyclic benzimidazole derivatives useful as anti-diabetic agents
Novel compounds of the structural formula (I) are activators of AMP-protein kinase and are useful in the treatment, prevention and suppression of diseases mediated by the AMPK-activated protein kinase. The compounds of the present invention are useful in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes, hyperglycemia, metabolic syndrome, obesity, hypercholesterolemia, and hypertension.
US08563745B2 Process for producing isothiazole derivative
A process for producing 3,4-dichloro-5-cyanoisothiazole represented by a general formula (3): the process comprising: reacting a nitrile compound represented by a general formula (1): (wherein “n” denotes an integer of 0 to 2), with sulfur chloride represented by a general formula (2): SmCl2  (2) (wherein “m” represents an integer of 1 to 2), or a mixture thereof in an aprotic polar solvent. There is provided a process for producing 3,4-dichloro-5-cyanoisothiazole, which is capable of suppressing by-production of a waste, without using a raw material having a strong toxicity; and is capable of providing a product having a higher purity in a high yield and efficiency in an industrial scale, in a simple manner.
US08563744B2 3-amino-benzo [D] isothiazole dioxide derivatives and their use as pesticides
A compound of Formula (I) or Formula (II) where W is C—R3; X is C—R4; Y is C—R5; R1 and R6, independently of each other, is, for example, H, C1-C6-alkyl, C2-C6-alkenyl, C2-C6-alkynyl, C3-C8-cycloalkyl or C1-C6-alkyl-C(═O); R2 is H; and R3, R4 and R5, independently of each other, are, for example, H, halogen, cyano, nitro, C1-C6-alkyl, or C1-C6-haloalkyl; provided that in formula II R1 is H and R6 is as defined above; and in formula I that (a) at least one of R1 and R3 to R6 is other than hydrogen, (b) R3 or R4 is other than C1 when in each instance the remaining five groups of R1 to R6 are hydrogen, and (c) (i) R3 is other than methyl, (ii) R4 is other than C1, (iii) R5 is other than C1 and (iv) R3 is not C1 when R5 is methoxy, when in each instance (i) to (iv) R1 is H, R6 is MeC(═O), and remaining groups of R2 to R5 are hydrogen; and/or salts thereof; and their use as as pesticidal agents.
US08563741B2 CDK inhibitors containing a zinc binding moiety
The present invention relates to CDK inhibitors and their use in the treatment of cell proliferative diseases such as cancer. The compounds of the invention may further act as HDAC inhibitors.
US08563740B2 Oxadiazole derivative, and light-emitting element, light-emitting device, electronic device, and lighting device using the oxadiazole derivative
An object of one embodiment of the present invention is to provide a novel oxadiazole derivative as a substance having high excitation energy, in particular, a substance having high triplet excitation energy. One embodiment of the present invention is an oxadiazole derivative represented by General Formula (G1) below. In General Formula (G1), R1 represents either an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms or a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group having 6 to 13 carbon atoms. In General Formula (G1), R21 to R27 separately represent any one of a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group having 6 to 13 carbon atoms. In General Formula (G1), α represents a substituted or unsubstituted arylene group having 6 to 13 carbon atoms. In General Formula (G1), Z represents either a sulfur atom or an oxygen atom.
US08563736B2 Amide derivatives, process for preparation thereof and use thereof as insecticide
A compound represented by Formula (1): The compound can be used as insecticides.
US08563735B2 Bcl-2-selective apoptosis-inducing agents for the treatment of cancer and immune diseases
Disclosed are compounds which inhibit the activity of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 or Bcl-xL proteins, compositions containing the compounds and methods of treating diseases during which are expressed anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein.
US08563734B2 2-[1-cyanopropyl)carbamoyl]-5-chloromethyl nicotinic acids and the use thereof in manufacturing herbicidal imidazolinones
2-[(1-cyanopropyl)carbamoyl]-5-chloromethyl nicotinic acids of formula (I) where Z is hydrogen or halogen; Z1 is hydrogen, halogen, cyano or nitro; R1 is C1-C4 alkyl; R2 is C1-C4 alkyl, C3-C6 cycloalkyl or R1 and R2, when taken together with the atom to which they are attached, represent a C3-C6 cycloalkyl group optionally substituted with methyl, and R3 is hydrogen or a cation preferably selected from the group consisting of alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, manganese, copper, iron, zinc, cobalt, lead, silver, nickel, ammonium and organic ammonium; are useful intermediates for the synthesis of herbicidal imidazolinones.
US08563732B2 Oxyimino compounds and the use thereof
The invention relates to oxyimino compounds of (Formula I), and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, prodrugs and solvates thereof, wherein: Y is CO or SOm; Z is hydrogen, each optionally substituted lower alkyl, lower alkenyl, aryl, heterocyclyl etc. R1 and R2 are each independently hydrogen, each optionally substituted lower alkyl, lower alkenyl, cycloalkyl, aryl, heterocyclyl etc., each X is independently ═O, optionally substituted lower alkyl, cyano, nitro etc., m is 1 or 2, p is O, 1 or 2 and q is O or 1. The invention is also directed to the use compounds of Formula I to treat, prevent or ameliorate a disorder responsive to the blockade of calcium channels, and particularly N-type calcium channels. Compounds of the present invention are especially useful for treating pain.
US08563725B2 Preparation of saturated ketone morphinan compounds having low metal content
The present invention provides processes for the preparation of saturated ketone morphinan compounds from a morphinan comprising an allyl alcohol ring moiety, wherein the final product has a low metal content. In particular, the invention provides processes that utilize isomerization reactions catalyzed by transition metal catalysts and the subsequent removal of the transition metal using metal scavengers.
US08563724B2 (+)-6-hydroxy-morphinan or (+)-6-amino-morphinan derivatives
The present invention provides (+)-morphinanium compounds comprising substituted 6-hydroxy or 6-amine groups. The invention also provides methods for inhibiting microglial activation by administering the compounds of the invention.
US08563716B2 Compositions and methods for inhibition of the JAK pathway
Disclosed are compounds of formula I, compositions containing them, and methods of use for the compounds and compositions in the treatment of conditions in which modulation of the JAK pathway or inhibition of JAK kinases, particularly JAK2 and JAK3, are therapeutically useful.
US08563708B2 Methods and compositions involving miRNA and miRNA inhibitor molecules
The present invention concerns methods and compositions for introducing miRNA activity or function into cells using synthetic nucleic acid molecules. Moreover, the present invention concerns methods and compositions for identifying miRNAs with specific cellular functions that are relevant to therapeutic, diagnostic, and prognostic applications wherein synthetic miRNAs and/or miRNA inhibitors are used in library screening assays.
US08563707B2 Compositions and methods for detection of hepatitis A virus nucleic acid
Nucleic acid oligomeric sequences and in vitro nucleic acid amplification and detection methods for detecting the presence of HAV RNA sequences in samples are disclosed. Kits comprising nucleic acid oligomers for amplifying and detecting HAV nucleic acid sequences are disclosed.
US08563702B2 Composite fibre of alginate and chitosan
There are provided composite fibers of alginate and chitosan. Also provided are fiber materials methods of producing composite fibers or films and composite films. In one embodiment there is provided a composite fiber of alginate and chitosan suitable for use in wound management products, wherein chitosan polymer is bonded to alginate polymer along the length of the fiber.
US08563701B2 Methods for removal of microcystins and isolation of phycocoyanin from cyanobacteria
This disclosure relates to methods of removing contaminating microcystins toxins from preparations of blue-green algae. It also relates to methods of purifying phycocyanin from blue-green algae extracts.
US08563700B2 Synergistic effects
The present invention encompasses a combination of at least one conjugate and one or more chemotherapeutic agent(s) which when administered exerts an unexpectedly enhanced therapeutic effect. The therapeutic effectiveness of the combination is greater than that of the conjugate alone or the administration of one or more of the drug(s) without the conjugate. The present invention is also directed to compositions comprising at least one conjugate and at one or more of chemotherapeutic agent and to methods of treating cancer using at least one conjugate and at least one or more of chemotherapeutic agent(s). The present invention also provides methods of modulating the growth of selected cell populations, such as cancer cells, by administering a therapeutically effective amount of one or more chemotherapeutic agent(s) and at least one conjugate. In each case, such combination has therapeutic synergy or improves the therapeutic index in the treatment of cancer over the anticancer agent(s) alone.
US08563699B2 Anthrax and small Pox replikins and methods of use
Isolated peptides of the Bacillus anthracis Anthrax Toxin Lethal factor Protein pX01-107, antibodies specific for the peptides and methods of stimulating the immune response of a subject to produce antibodies to the Bacillus anthracis Anthrax Toxin Lethal factor Protein pX01-107 are disclosed. Also disclosed are isolated peptides of the Small Pox Virus Surface Antigen S Precursor Protein, antibodies specific for the peptides and methods of stimulating the immune response of a subject to produce antibodies to the Small Pox Virus Surface Antigen S Precursor Protein.
US08563695B2 Antibodies that bind β2
Compositions and methods are provided for the classification, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of tumors characterized by loss of REST function, expression of β2, and/or activation of Notch. Further compositions and methods are provided for modulation of cellular processes such as EMT, cell migration, and apoptosis.
US08563689B1 Methods for regulating inflammatory mediators and peptides for useful therein
The present invention includes methods of modulating cellular secretory processes. More specifically the present invention relates to modulating or reducing the release of inflammatory mediators from inflammatory cells by inhibiting the mechanism associated with the release of inflammatory mediators from the vesicles or granules in the inflammatory cells in a subject with a chronic inflammatory disease. In this regard, the present invention discloses an intracellular signaling mechanism that illustrates several novel intracellular targets for pharmacological intervention in disorders involving secretion of inflammatory mediators from vesicles in inflammatory cells. MANS peptide and active fragments thereof are useful in such methods.
US08563687B2 Synthetic genes for plant gums and other hydroxyproline rich glycoproteins
A new approach in the field of plant gums is described which presents a new solution to the production of hydroxyproline(Hyp)-rich glycoproteins (HRGPs), repetitive proline-rich proteins (RPRPs) and arabino-galactan proteins (AGPs). The expression of synthetic genes designed from repetitive peptide sequences of such glycoproteins, including the peptide sequences of gum arabic glycoprotein (GAGP), is taught in host cells, including plant host cells.
US08563686B2 Conformationally constrained peptide mimetics
Conformationally constrained peptide mimetics in which a hydrogen bond interaction is replaced with a covalent hydrogen bond mimic are provided. Also provided are various methods of making these peptide mimetics.
US08563685B2 Fatty acid formulations and oral delivery of proteins and peptides, and uses thereof
Fatty acid compositions for administration of of pharmaceutical agents, such as proteins and peptides, protein and peptide conjugates, and/or cation-polypeptide conjugate complexes. In particular, the invention provides a solid pharmaceutical composition formulated for oral administration by ingestion, having from about 0.1 to about 75% w/w fatty acid component, where the fatty acid component comprises saturated or unsaturated C4, C5, C6, C7, C8, C9, C10, C11, or C12 fatty acids and/or salts of such fatty acids; and a therapeutic agent. Further, the invention provides a liquid pharmaceutical composition formulated for oral administration by ingestion, comprising: from about 0.1 to about 10% w/v fatty acid component, where the fatty acid component comprises saturated or unsaturated C4, C5, C6, C7, C8, C9, C10, C11, or C12 fatty acids and/or salts of such fatty acids; and a therapeutic agent.
US08563684B2 Tumor antigen protein SART-3 and tumor antigen peptides thereof
A novel tumor antigen protein and gene therefor, tumor antigen peptides derived from said tumor antigen protein or derivatives thereof as well as medicaments, prophylactics, or diagnostics for tumors using such tumor substances in vitro or in vitro are provided.
US08563677B2 Non-precipitating alkali/alkaline earth metal and aluminum solutions made with diols having at least two primary hydroxyl groups
A stable catalyst solution suitable for catalyzing the polycondensation of reactants to make polyester polymers comprising: (i) M, wherein M is represented by an alkaline earth metal or alkali metal and (ii) aluminum metal and (iii) a polyhydroxyl solvent having at least 3 carbon atoms and at least two primary hydroxyl groups, the longest carbon chain being a hydrocarbon; such as 1,3-propane diol, 1,4-butane diol, 1,5-pentane diol, or combinations thereof, wherein the molar ratio of M:Al ranges from 0.75:1 to less than 1.5:1. The catalyst solution is desirably a solution which does not precipitate upon standing over a period of at least one week at room temperature (25° C.-40° C.), even at molar ratios of M:Al approaching 1:1. There is also provided a method for the manufacture of the solution, its feed to and use in the manufacture of a polyester polymer, and polyester polymers obtained by combining certain ingredients or containing the residues of these ingredients in the composition.
US08563676B2 Reactive amine catalysts for polyurethane foam
Polyurethanes made using compounds of formula A: Q-(R6)-M-(R7)-NR3R4 where Q is OH or NR1R2; M is O or NR5 where R5 is R1 or H; R1 is alkyl or an alkylene alcohol of from 1 to 6 carbons, especially CH3, CH2CH3, or CH2CH2OH; R2 is alkyl or an alkylene alcohol of from 1 to 6 carbons, especially CH3, CH2CH3, or —CH2CH2OH; R3 is hydrogen or alkyl of from 1 to 6 carbons, especially H, CH3 or CH2CH3; R4 is hydrogen; where R6 is an alkylene group of from 2 to 5 carbons; and wherein R7 is an alkylene group of from 2 to 5 carbons. Illustrative catalysts of this invention include but are not limited to N,N,N′-trimethylbis(aminoethyl)ether, dimethylaminoethoxypropylamine, and (3-aminopropyl)(2-hydroxyethyl)methylamine.
US08563675B2 Curable compositions composed of silanes with two hydrolyzable groups
The present invention relates to silane-crosslinking curable compositions encompassing a polymer P having at least two terminal groups of the following formulas (I) and (II) -Am-K1—SiR1XY (I), -Am-K2—SiR2XY (II), and/or two polymers P1 and P2, polymer P1 having terminal groups of the following formula (I) -Am-K1—SiR1XY (I), and polymer P2 having terminal groups of the following formula (II) -Am-K2—SiR2XY (II), in which A denotes a divalent bonding group, K1, K2, mutually independently, denote a divalent aliphatic hydrocarbon group that has a main chain of 1 to 6 carbon atoms, the hydrocarbon groups K1, K2 being different, X, Y mutually independently denote a hydroxy group or a hydrolyzable group, R1, R2 mutually independently denote a hydrocarbon residue having 1 to 20 carbon atoms, and m assumes the values 0 or 1.
US08563673B2 Propylene-based resin molded article and method for producing the same
A propylene-based resin molded article satisfying the following requirements (1) through (4): Requirement (1) Lc/La≦1.50 Requirement (2) Lc≧10.0 Requirement (3) F1≧0.07 Requirement (4) F2≧0.06 wherein in Requirements (1) through (4), La denotes the distance (unit: nm) between crystalline lamellae calculated from the long-period distance calculated from a small-angle X-ray scattering profile and the degree of crystallization calculated from the amount of heat of fusion measured by differential scanning calorimetry, Lc denotes the thickness (unit: nm) of a crystalline lamella calculated from the distance between crystalline lamellae and the long-period distance, F1 denotes the degree of orientation calculated from the infrared dichroic ratio measured at a wave number of 997 cm−1, and F2 denotes the degree of orientation calculated from the infrared dichroic ratio measured at a wave number of 973 cm−1.
US08563672B2 Process for producing fluorinated copolymers of (meth)acrylates and (meth)acrylic acid amine complexes
A process for producing copolymers of (meth)acrylates:(meth)acrylic acid amine complexes useful for hard surfaces having increased performance for stain resistance, oil and water repellency properties.
US08563664B2 Crosslinkable biopolymer
A composition, prepolymer and method to produce a polymer based on biodegradable or essentially renewable crude materials, which can be crosslinked by free radicals. The composition is based on polyesters that are functionalized with unsaturated monomer units, in a way that unsaturated groups can be located along the polymer main chain as well as at the ends of the prepolymer. In connection to the product production, the prepolymer is exposed to free radicals that leads to network formation. The composition of the crosslinked biopolymer can be adjusted from a stiff engineering material to an elastic rubbery material. The new biopolymer can be used in composite materials, dispersions, barrier materials, rubbery materials, biomedical applications, and the like.
US08563663B2 Heat curable composition for composite parts and intumescent coatings
The invention relates to a heat curable composition for fire-resistant or intumescent composite parts, which is free of any halogen additive or halogen structure in the components thereof, and which comprises: a) 100 parts by weight of a dry resin, including a1) an unsaturated polyester having an acid index lower than 10 and/or a2) a vinyl ester; b) 40 to 200 parts by weight of a reactive thinner among ethylenically unsaturated monomers; c) 20 to 110 parts by weight of a thermal expansion agent selected from melamine and derivatives thereof, guanidine, glycine, urea, triisiocynurates, and azodicarbinamide; d) 0 to 250 parts by weight of aluminium trihydrate; e) 10 to 80 parts by weight of a carbonisation precursor agent selected from multifunctional polyols; f) 50 to 200 parts by weight of a compound selected from a phosphorus derivative and/or a boric acid derivative; g) optionally at least one metal oxide; h) optionally other additives and fillers; i) optionally reinforcements containing natural or synthetic fibres and related fabrics, wherein the acid component of the polyester a1) contains at least 60 mol % of acid and/or maleic anhydride and the polyol component contains at least 70 mol % of propylene glycol. The compositions can be used in the field of transport, building, public works, civil engineering and recreation or street furniture with intumescent composite parts or coatings that comply at least with criterion HL2 of the R1 requirement of prCEN/TS 45545-2:2008.
US08563660B2 Fluororubber-based sealing material having good sealing properties under high/low temperature load
[Object] To provide a fluororubber-based sealing material which is excellent in sealing properties under high/low temperature load and is capable of sealing at a temperature of not higher than −40° C. even when gas oil (diesel fuel) is used.[Means for Solving] A fluororubber-based sealing material obtained by crosslinking a composition for a fluororubber-based sealing material, said composition comprising 100 parts by weight of a fluorine-containing copolymer which contains 64 to 69% by weight of fluorine, has a crosslinking site derived from a bromine-containing compound and/or an iodine-containing compound and is capable of being crosslinked by a peroxide, 0.5 to 6 parts by weight of an organic peroxide and 1 to 10 parts by weight of a polyfunctional monomer, wherein the fluorine-containing copolymer in the composition for a fluororubber-based sealing material is a fluororubber polymer obtained by copolymerizing (a) VDF, (b) TFE, (c) FMVE, (d) FMMVE and (e) brominated/iodinated unsaturated fluorohydrocarbon.
US08563643B2 Method for manufacturing a coating slip, using an acrylic thickener with a branched hydrophobic chain, and the slip obtained
The invention consists of a method for manufacturing a paper coating slip containing a mineral material, using, as an agent for thickening the slip, a water-soluble polymer comprising at least one ethylene-unsaturated anionic monomer, and at least one ethylene-unsaturated oxyalkyl monomer terminating in a branched hydrophobic alkyl, alkaryl, arylalkyl, aryl chain, saturated or unsaturated, with 14 to 21 carbon atoms and two branches each with at least six carbon atoms. The polymer is added to the slip either directly, or during a prior stage when grinding, dispersing, or concentrating the mineral material in water, which may or not be followed by a drying stage. In this way, the water retention of the slip is improved, which contributes to a better printability of the paper coated by the slip.
US08563642B2 Process for dry grinding of one or more mineral materials including at least one calcium carbonate
The present invention provides a process for dry grinding one or more mineral materials which include at least calcium carbonate. The process includes a) crushing the mineral material or materials in at least one crushing unit until a crushed material is obtained with a d95 of less than 10 cm, and dry grinding the material in at least one grinding unit (i) in the presence of at least one comb-type hydrophilic polymer containing at least polyalkylene oxide function grafted on to at least one unsaturated ethylene monomer, and (ii) in such a manner that the quantity of liquid in the grinding unit is less than 15% by dry weight of the material crushed in the crushing unit, wherein recovered material has a d50 of 0.5 to 500 microns.
US08563638B2 Oligomeric phosphonates and compositions including the same
Disclosed are oligomeric phosphonates including oligophosphonates, random or block co-oligo(phosphonate ester)s and co-oligo(phosphonate carbonate)s produced using a condensation process terminated with hydroxyl, epoxy, vinyl, vinyl ester, isopropenyl, isocyanate groups, and the like. These materials can be used as a reactive additive to other polymers, oligomers or monomer mixtures to impart flame resistance without diminishing melt processability which is important in the fabrication of polymers for many applications.
US08563637B2 Alkylphenol free-liquid polymeric phosphite polymer stabilizers
An alkylphenol-free liquid polymeric phosphite is described of general Structure IV illustrated below wherein each R1, R2, R3 and R4 can be the same or different and independently selected from the group consisting of C1-20 alkyl, C3-22 alkenyl, C6-40 cycloalkyl, C7-40 cycloalkylene, C1-20 methoxy alkyl glycol ethers, C1-20 alkyl glycol ethers, and or Y—OH; Y is selected from the group consisting of C2-40 alkylene, C2-40 alkyl lactone, —R7—N(R8)—R9—, wherein R7, R8 and R9 are independently selected from the group previously defined for R1, R2, R3 and R4, now further including H; m is an integral value ranging from 2 to 100 inclusive; and x is an integral value ranging from 1 to 1,000. The alkylphenol-free liquid polymeric phosphite is useful in reducing phosphite migration within polymers.
US08563627B2 Self emulsifying granules and process for the preparation of emulsions therefrom
A process for making a self-emulsifying granule suitable for use in forming latex emulsions includes contacting a resin with a solid or highly concentrated surfactant, a solid neutralization agent and water in the absence of an organic solvent to form a mixture, melt mixing the mixture, and forming self-emulsifying granules of the melt mixed mixture. Self-emulsifying granules are also provided and configured to form a latex emulsion when added to water, which may then be utilized to form a toner.
US08563626B2 Use of plasma-synthesised pyrrole-derived polymers for the neuroprotection and reconnection of the central nervous system
The purpose of the present invention is to demonstrate that semiconducting and non-biodegradable implants made with polypyrrole and polyethylenglycol copolymers and iodine-doped and plasma-synthesized pyrrole polymers, have a neuroprotector effect and induce the reconnection of the spinal cord after an injury; this effect was proved in a model involving a complete section of the spinal cord in rats; the results o the functional evaluation demonstrated 5 times greater recovery in animals implanted with the polypyrrole-polyethylenglycol copolymer compared with the control group which only underwent a complete section of the spinal cord; in addition, the functional recovery of the group with iodine-doped polypyrrole was ten times greater compared to the control group; in the histological study various inflammatory and immune cells were identified at the injury site in the three experimental groups with and without implants and the integration of the polymers in the nervous tissue of the spinal cord was also observed; finally, no respiratory, renal or skin infections, adverse effects or rejection of the biomaterials were found in any of the animals.
US08563619B2 Methods and arrangements for plasma processing system with tunable capacitance
A method for processing a substrate in a plasma processing chamber is provided. The substrate is disposed above a chuck and surrounded by an edge ring. The edge ring is electrically isolated from the chuck. The method includes providing RF power to the chuck. The method also includes providing a tunable capacitance arrangement. The tunable capacitance arrangement is coupled to the edge ring to provide RF coupling to the edge ring, resulting in the edge ring having an edge ring potential. The method further includes generating a plasma within the plasma processing chamber to process the substrate. The substrate is processed while the tunable capacitance arrangement is configured to cause the edge ring potential to be dynamically tunable to a DC potential of the substrate while processing the substrate.
US08563617B2 Aminotetraline derivatives, pharmaceutical compositions containing them, and their use in therapy
The present invention relates to aminotetraline derivatives of the formula (I) or a physiologically tolerated salt thereof. The invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising such aminotetraline derivatives, and the use of such aminotetraline derivatives for therapeutic purposes. The aminotetraline derivatives are GlyT1 inhibitors.
US08563615B2 Use of CI-994 and dinaline for the treatment of memory/cognition and anxiety disorders
The invention relates to methods and compositions for promoting cognitive function and/or treating cognitive function disorders and impairments. In particular the methods are accomplished by administering to a subject CI-994 or dinaline or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, ester, prodrug or metabolite thereof.
US08563614B2 Use of treprostinil to treat neuropathic diabetic foot ulcers
The present invention describes novel methods for using 9-deoxy-2′,9-α-methano-3-oxa-4,5,6-trinor-3,7-(1′,3′-interphenylene)-13,14-dihydro-prostaglandin F1 (also known as Treprostinil) or its derivative, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, for the treatment and/or prevention of foot ulcers in subjects with diabetic neuropathy. The invention also relates to kits for treatment and/or prevention of foot ulcers, comprising an effective amount of Treprostinil or its derivative, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
US08563613B2 Diclofenac topical formulation
The present invention provides a gel formulation comprising diclofenac sodium which has superior transdermal flux properties, which may be used for the topical treatment of pain, such as in osteoarthritis.
US08563610B2 Polyunsaturated fatty acids interactions and oxidative stress disorders
This invention relates to the identification and treatment of the effects of products derived from oxidative pathways for polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) metabolism, i.e., oxidative stress in a patient by monitoring the metabolism of DHA or by administering DHA.
US08563609B2 Nitro fatty acids - neuroprotection and/or inhibition of cognitive decline
A composition for treating, ameliorating and/or preventing conditions associated with cognitive decline and/or motor neuron death comprise a fatty acid component enriched for one or more activated fatty acids and a nutraceutically acceptable excipient. A method for treating, ameliorating and/or preventing conditions associated with cognitive decline and/or motor neuron death includes administering a fatty acid component enriched for one or more activated fatty acids.
US08563607B2 Polyphenol proteasome inhibitors, synthesis, and methods of use
The present invention relates to synthetic green tea derived polyphenolic compounds, their modes of syntheses, and their use in inhibiting proteasomal activity and in treating cancers. The present invention is also directed to pharmaceutical compositions useful in methods of inhibiting proteasomes and of treating cancers.
US08563605B2 Therapeutic agent for male sterility
The present invention is intended to provide an agent for treating male infertility which is highly effective to male infertility, and having few side effects. To achieve the object, an agent for treating male infertility comprising δ-amino levulinic acid shown by general formula (1), its derivative or salt thereof: R2R1NCH2COCH2CH2COR3  (1) [wherein R1 and R2 independently represent a hydrogen atom, alkyl group, acyl group, alkoxycarbonyl group, aryl group, or aralkyl group; R3 represents a hydroxy group, alkoxy group, acyloxy group, alkoxycarbonyloxy group, aryloxy group, aralkyloxy group or amino group] can be used.
US08563604B2 Silicone gel-based compositions for wound healing and scar reduction
This invention is a composition comprising a cyclic siloxane, a silicone occlusive fluid, a silicone occlusive gel, and a silicone resin powder. The composition is useful for wound healing.
US08563601B2 Method of managing broncho-constrictive condition
The present disclosure is in relation to the use of a composition comprising pentameric type A procyanidin, trimeric procyanidin and tetrameric procyanidin, optionally along with pharmaceutical excipient(s), in management of broncho-constrictive conditions such as Allergic Rhinitis, Asthma, and Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
US08563597B2 Fused tricyclic ether carbamates and their use
Tricylic ether carbamates that inhibit HIV proteolytic enzymes and processes for preparing the compounds are described. Methods of using the disclosed compounds for treating patients infected with HIV are also described.
US08563596B2 Enantiomerically pure compounds for the treatment of proliferative disorders
The present invention relates to an enantiomerically pure (+)-trans enantiomer of a compound represented by the following formula (I): wherein R1, R2, R3, R4 and R9 are as defined in the specification; enantiomerically pure intermediates thereof, to processes for the preparation of the enantiomerically pure compound and its intermediates, and to a pharmaceutical composition comprising the enantiomerically pure compound. The compound of formula (I) is useful for the treatment of diseases or disorders mediated by the inhibition of cyclin dependant kinase, such as cancer.
US08563593B2 Formulations of (R)-1-(2,2-difluorobenzo[D] [1,3] dioxol-5-yl)-N-(1-(2,3-dihydroxypropyl)-6-fluoro-2-(1-hydroxy-2-methylpropan-2-yl)-1H-indol-5-yl)cyclopropanecarboxamide
The present invention relates to formulations of (R)-1-(2,2-difluorobenzo[d][1,3]dioxol-5-yl)-N-(1-(2,3-dihydroxypropyl)-6-fluoro-2-(1-hydroxy-2-methylpropan-2-yl)-1H-indol-5-yl)cyclopropanecarboxamide (Compound 1), pharmaceutical packs or kits thereof, and methods of treatment therewith.
US08563590B2 Compounds, compositions and methods for the treatment of islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP) accumulation in diabetes
Dihydroxyaryl compounds and pharmaceutically acceptable esters, their synthesis, pharmaceutical compositions containing them, and their use in the treatment of IAPP or amylin fibril diseases, and the manufacture of medicaments for such treatment.
US08563586B2 1,(3,)5-substituted imidazoles, their use in the treatment of hypertension and methods for their preparation
The present invention provides novel 1,5 and 1,3,5-substituted imidazole compounds in hydrophilic or lipophilic form, which are useful as angiotensin II ATI receptor antagonists suitable for transdermal delivery. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds, processes and intermediates for preparing compounds and their use in methods of treating hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.
US08563575B2 Fused heterocyclic compounds
The present invention provides a compound which has the effect of PDE inhibition, and which is useful as an agent for preventing or treating schizophrenia. The compound is represented by the formula (I): wherein the symbols are defined in the specification.
US08563567B2 Substituted heterocyclic compounds
The present invention relates to substituted heterocyclic compounds and methods of synthesizing these compounds. The present invention also relates to pharmaceutical compositions containing substituted heterocyclic compounds and methods of treating cell proliferative disorders, such as cancer, by administering these compounds and pharmaceutical compositions to subjects in need thereof.
US08563566B2 Naphthyridine derivatives as potassium channel modulators
This invention provided compounds of formula I where W and Z are, independently, CH or N, and where other substituents are defined herein. Such compounds are potassium channel modulators. The invention also provides a composition comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient and at least one of the following: a pharmaceutically effective amount of a compound of formula I; a pharmaceutically acceptable salt of a compound of formula I; a pharmaceutically acceptable ester of a compound of formula I. The invention also provides a method of preventing or treating a disease or disorder which is affected by activities of potassium channels, comprising administering to a patient in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of a compound of formula I or a salt or ester or solvate thereof.
US08563561B2 3-(3-pyrimidine-2-yl-benzyl)-[1,2,4] triazolo[4,3-b]pyrimidine derivatives
The 3-(3-pyrimidin-2ylbenzyl)-1,2,4-triazolo[4,3-b]pyrimidine compounds of formula in which R1, R2, R3, R3, R4 have the meanings indicated herein, are inhibitors of tyrosine kinases, in particular Met kinase, and can be employed, inter alia, for the treatment of tumors.
US08563558B2 Substituted pyridine urea compounds
The present disclosure provides pyridine urea compounds useful in the treatment of p38 kinase mediated diseases, such as lymphoma and auto-inflammatory disease, having the structure of Formula (I): wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, V and W are as defined in the detailed description; pharmaceutical compositions comprising at least one of the compounds; and methods for treating p38 kinase mediated diseases using the compound.
US08563553B2 Compounds and compositions as protein kinase inhibitors
The present invention provides compounds of Formula I or II: wherein R1, R1b, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6 and R7 are defined herein. The compounds of Formula (I) or (II) and pharmaceutical compositions thereof are useful for the treatment of B-Raf-associated diseases.
US08563552B2 Whitening agent and skin external preparation
The present invention provides a compound having an excellent inhibitory action on melanin production and being useful as a whitening agent, and a skin external preparation containing the compound. The whitening agent of the present invention comprises, as an active ingredient, a compound represented by formula (1) or a pharmacologically acceptable salt thereof: wherein X1, X2, and X3 are each CR2 or N; R1, R2, and R3 are each H, C1-6 alkyl, C1-6 alkoxy, SH, OH, or NRbRc, wherein Rb and Rc are each H, C1-6 alkyl, or hydroxy-C1-6 alkyl, or NRbRc forms a saturated or unsaturated 5- or 6-membered hetero ring; and B is a substituted or unsubstituted pyrazole, imidazole, pyridine, or piperidine; with the proviso that at least one of R1, R3, R4, and R6 is a group other than C1-3 alkyl in the case where X1═X2═Y1═N and X3═CR2.
US08563550B2 Imidazolothiadiazoles for use as protein kinase inhibitors
There is provided compounds of formula (I), wherein Z, M, R1, X, R2, R3 and B have meanings given in the description, and pharmaceutically-acceptable esters, amides, solvates or salts thereof, which compounds are useful in the treatment of diseases in which inhibition of a protein kinase (e.g. a PIM family kinase or PI3-K) is desired and/or required, and particularly in the treatment of cancer.
US08563548B2 Methylene furanone derivatives and use of said derivatives as a photoprotecting or antioxidant or depigmentation agent in cosmetic or dermatological compositions
The present invention relates to methylene furanone derivatives as well as the use thereof as a protective, antioxidant, or depigmentation agent in cosmetic or dermatological compositions. The invention also relates to a method for preparing said derivatives involving a Suzuki-Miyaura coupling reaction from corresponding dibromofuranone derivatives. The invention also relates to a method of preparation involving a coupling reaction of 2-methoxy-furan derivatives with a ketone followed by dehydration.
US08563544B2 2,5-disubstituted arylsulfonamide CCR3 antagonists
Provided herein are 2,5-disubstituted arylsulfonamide CCR3 antagonists, e.g., compounds of Formula I, and pharmaceutical compositions thereof: Also provided herein are methods of their use for treating, preventing, or ameliorating one or more symptoms of a CCR3-mediated disorder, disease, or condition.
US08563539B2 Aminopyrimidine kinase inhibitors
Disclosed are compounds, pharmaceutical compositions containing those compounds, and uses of the compounds and compositions as modulators of casein kinase 1 (e.g., CK1γ), casein kinase 2 (CK2), Pim 1, Pim2, Pim3, the TGFβ pathway, the Wnt pathway, the JAK/STAT pathway, and/or the mTOR pathway. Uses are also disclosed for the treatment or prevention of a range of therapeutic indications due at least in part to aberrant physiological activity of casein kinase 1 (e.g., CK1γ), casein kinase 2 (CK2), Pim 1, Pim2, Pim3, the TGFβ pathway, the Wnt pathway, the JAK/STAT pathway, and/or the mTOR pathway.
US08563536B2 Compounds having CRTH2 antagonist activity
Compounds of general formula (II) wherein W is chloro or fluoro; R1 is phenyl optionally substituted with one or more substituents, selected from halo, —CN, —C1-C6 alkyl, —SOR3, —SO2R3, —SO2N(R2)2, —N(R2)2, —NR2C(O)R3, —CO2R2, —CONR2R3, —NO2, —OR2, —SR2, —O(CH2)pOR2, or —O(CH2)pO(CH2)qOR2 wherein each R2 is independently hydrogen, —C1-C6 alkyl, —C3-C8 cycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl; each R3 is independently, —C1-C6 alkyl, —C3-C8 cycloalkyl, aryl or heteroaryl; p and q are each independently an integer from 1 to 3; and R4 is hydrogen, C1-C6 alkyl, C1-C6 alkyl substituted with aryl, aryl, (CH2)mOC(═O)C1-C6alkyl, ((CH2)mO)nCH2CH2X, (CH2)mN(R5)2 or CH((CH2)mO(C═O)R6)2; m is 1 or 2; n is 1-4; X is OR5 or N(R5)2; R5 is hydrogen or methyl; and R6 is C1-C18 alkyl; and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts, hydrates, solvates, complexes or prodrugs are useful in orally administrable compositions for the treatment of allergic diseases such as asthma, allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis.
US08563535B2 Combination composition comprising benzoyl peroxide and adapalene
An aqueous gel composition of the present invention comprising about 0.1 to 0.3 wt % adapalene and about 2.5 to 5.0 wt % benzoyl peroxide, as active ingredients, wherein both the active ingredients are stabilized in hydrophilic gelling matrix of pH dependent gelling agent comprising crosslinked, acrylic acid-based polymer(s).
US08563533B2 Soft protease inhibitors and pro-soft forms thereof
The invention provides compounds and methods for inhibiting proteases. One aspect of the invention features pro-soft inhibitors which react with an activating protease to release an active inhibitor moiety in proximity to a target protease. In certain instances, compounds inhibit proteasomes and/or post-proline cleaving enzymes (PPCE), such as dipeptidyl peptidase IV. The compounds of the invention provide a better therapeutic index, owing in part to reduced toxicity and/or improved specificity for the targeted protease.
US08563531B2 Methods of using beta glucan as a radioprotective agent
The invention relates to methods for treating and preventing radiation and/or chemotherapy related injury and/or afflictions, such as myelosuppression and decreased macrophage activity, by administering a prophylactically or therapeutically effective amount of particulate, bioavailable β(1,3; 1,6) glucan. The invention also relates to methods in which β(1,3; 1,6) glucan is provided in the form of whole glucan particles, microparticulate β-glucan particles or a combination thereof.
US08563530B2 Purine nucleoside phosphoramidate
Disclosed herein is a compound represented by formula 1 or its hydrate thereof in crystalline or crystal-like form.
US08563528B2 Antisense oligomers targeting PCSK9
The present invention relates to oligomer compounds (oligomers), which target PCSK9 mRNA in a cell, leading to reduced expression of PCSK9. Reduction of PCSK9 expression is beneficial for the treatment of certain medical disorders, such as hypercholesterolemia and related disorders.
US08563526B2 Triazole derivatives, their preparation and their application in therapeutics
The present invention relates to novel compounds of formula (A): in the form of a free base or of an addition salt with an acid. The invention also relates to process of preparation of compounds of formula (A), to composition comprising them and to their application in therapeutics and in particular in cancers.
US08563525B2 Methods of treating an inflammatory-related disease
The invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions and methods of treating inflammatory-related diseases associated with pro-inflammatory cytokine expression and/or reduced expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines. The method typically comprises administration of one or more compounds selected from isoindigo, indigo, indirubin, or derivatives thereof, such as, Meisoindigo and NATURA in an amount less than sufficient to inhibit CDKs.
US08563523B2 Synthetic lipid A derivative
The invention provides functionalized monosaccharides and disaccharides suitable for use in synthesizing a lipid A derivative, as well as methods for synthesizing and using a synthetic lipid A derivative.
US08563521B2 Biological active proteins having increased in vivo and/or in vitro stability
Increased in vivo and/or in vitro stability is imparted to a biologically active protein by fusing to an amino acid sequence consisting of at least about 100 amino acid residues, which are Alanine, Serine and Proline, which form a random coil conformation. Specific examples are described. Also described are related nucleic acids, vectors and cells encoding such amino acids; compositions of biologically active proteins fused to a random coil domain, and methods of making and using the compounds and compositions of the invention.
US08563517B2 Dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DP-IV) compounds
The present invention is directed to novel compounds of formula I and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, enantiomers thereof having inhibiting properties of dipeptidyl peptidase IV enzyme (DP-IV inhibitors). The invention is also directed to pharmaceutical compositions comprising these compounds and the use of these compounds along with its composition in the prevention or treatment of diseases associated with DP-IV enzyme. wherein, A is defined as R3-R4 wherein R3 and R4 are together or independently defined as peptides having amino acids ranging from 1 to 10, B is chemical bond between peptide and substituted amine, R1, and R2 are as defined in specification.
US08563516B2 Foxp3 peptide vaccine
The present invention provides Foxp3 peptides comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NOs: 3-5, 7-9, 12, 15-19, 22, 24, 27-30, 37, 67 or 74, and Foxp3 peptides comprising the above-mentioned amino acid sequences in which 1, 2, or several amino acids are substituted or added, and having cytotoxic T cell inducibility, and also provides drugs for regulating regulatory T cells comprising these Foxp3 peptides. The Foxp3 peptides of this invention find use as vaccines.
US08563514B2 Peptides and pharmaceutical compositions for treating connective tissue
Provided is a pharmaceutical composition for sequestering cells in connective tissue. The composition includes a biocompatible scaffolding to which one or more peptides or proteins are linked. The peptides or proteins have an amino acid sequence that is a subsequence of human ficolin and are capable of binding the cells to be sequestered. The pharmaceutical composition can be used in the treatment of connective tissue, and can be used as a dermal filler.
US08563511B2 Treatment of pulmonary hypertension using an agent that inhibits a tissue factor pathway
An improved non-human animal model of severe pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and its use for testing of therapeutic agents that can treat symptoms of PAH are disclosed. In addition, the present application relates to the identification of several classes of therapeutic agents that, alone or in combination, can be used to treat or prevent PAH or at least reduce the severity of symptoms associated therewith. Both gene therapy and non-gene therapy approaches are described.
US08563510B2 Free-standing biodegradable patch
Methods and apparatus for a free-standing biodegradable patch suitable for medical applications, especially intravascular, minimally-invasive and intraoperative surgical applications are provided, wherein the patch comprises a free-standing film or device having a mixture of a solid fibrinogen component and a solid thrombin component that, when exposed to an aqueous environment, undergoes polymerization to form fibrin. In alternative embodiments the patch may comprise a solid fibrinogen component, with or without an inorganic calcium salt component. The patch may take a non-adherent form during delivery to a target location within a vessel or tissue, and thereafter may be activated to adhere to vessel wall or tissue, and may include a number of additives, including materials to improve the mechanical properties of the patch, or one or more therapeutic or contrast agents.
US08563509B2 Method of targeting specific cell populations using cell-binding agent maytansinoid conjugates linked via a non-cleavable linker, said conjugates and methods of making said conjugates
The present invention discloses a method for targeting maytansinoids to a selected cell population, the method comprising contacting a cell population or tissue suspected of containing the selected cell population with a cell-binding agent maytansinoid conjugate, wherein one or more maytansinoids is covalently linked to the cell-binding agent via a non-cleavable linker and the cell-binding agent binds to cells of the selected cell population.
US08563503B2 Antibiotic, its nucleotide sequence, methods of construction and uses thereof
The present invention belongs to field of biology and medicine, and especially relates to a novel antibiotic, its nucleotide sequence, methods of construction and uses thereof. A novel antibiotic, wherein the end of any peptide of the allosteric colicin is connected linearly to the end of peptide of the Staphylococcus aureus pheromone AgrD I, AgrD II, AgrD III, AgrD IV or Staphylococcus epidermidis pheromone. Wherein the allosteric colicin being yielded by artificially mutating the amino acid residues G11A, H22R, A26G, V31L and H40K in the peptide chain of wild type Colicin E1, Ia, Ib, A, B, N, or their ion channel-forming structural domain. In comparison with the traditional antibiotics, the novel antibiotics in the present invention are not likely to lead to drug resistance and cause hypersensitivity reaction.
US08563494B2 Iridescent soap bars containing ethoxylated alcohols
An iridescent continuous phase soap bar with an ordered layered microstructure containing soap, water and specific ethoxylated alcohols is described. The phenomena of continuous phase iridescence in a soap bar is characterized as blue hue which intensity depends on the viewing angle and on the background color used for its observation by the user. In a preferred embodiment, the iridescent soap bar is prepared with mixing equipment capable of creating intensive mass shearing conditions and which generate high compression and extensional forces on the processed soap mass.
US08563492B2 Skin cleansing agent with particles containing hydrogenated castor oil
A skin cleaning agent containing from 2 to 25% by weight of a cleaning body having a mean grain size of from 100 to 1000 μm and containing at least 50% hydrogenated castor oil; from 2 to 30% by weight of surfactants; from 0.1 to 10% by weight of thickeners; water and optionally further auxiliaries.
US08563487B1 Friction modifier using adherent metallic multilayered or mixed element layer conversion coatings
A process for creating conversion coatings and spin, drawing, and extrusion finishes for surfaces, wherein the conversion coatings and spin, drawing, and extrusion finishes contain potassium, phosphorus, nitrogen, and one or more non-alkaline metals and/or one or more metalloids. The process comprises forming an aqueous solution of water, phosphoric acid or sulfuric acid, ammonium hydroxide, an alkali metal hydroxide, and one or more non-alkaline metals and/or one or more metalloids. The aqueous solution forms an anti-friction multilayer conversion and/or mixed element coating or a spin, drawing, and extrusion finish on a surface when applied to the surface, either directly without the use of applied external electromotive force, or as an additive in lubricating fluids.
US08563476B2 Anti-CXCL9, anti-CXCL10, anti-CXCL11, anti-CXCL13, anti-CXCR3 and anti-CXCR5 agents for inflammatory disorders
A method for detecting an inflammatory disease in a subject is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of (a) detecting a level of expression of one or more inflammatory disease markers in a biological sample obtained from the subject; and (b) comparing the level of expression of said one or more inflammatory disease markers in the biological sample to a normal level of expression of the one or more inflammatory disease markers, wherein the one or more inflammatory disease markers comprise one or more markers selected from the group consisting of CXCL9, CXCL10, CXCL11, CXCL13, CXCR3 and CXCR5. Also disclosed are a method for monitoring the course of treatment for an inflammatory disease in a subject and a kit for detecting an inflammatory disease in a subject.
US08563473B2 Aqueous herbicidal concentrates of auxinic carboxylic acids with reduced eye irritancy
Aqueous concentrates of choline salts of herbicidal auxinic carboxylic acids are less irritating to eyes than the commonly used aqueous concentrates of ammonium salts of herbicidal auxinic carboxylic acids.
US08563469B2 Acrylate/methacrylate-based random copolymer/anthranilic diamide compositions for propagule coating
Disclosed is an insecticidal composition comprising by weight based on the total weight of the composition: (a) from about 9 to about 91% of one or more anthranilic diamide insecticides; and (b) from about 9 to about 91% of an acrylate/methacrylate-based random copolymer component having a water solubility of at least about 5% by weight at 20° C., a hydrophilic-lipophilic balance value of at least about 3, and an average molecular weight ranging from about 1,500 to about 50,000 daltons; wherein the ratio of component (b) to component (a) is about 1:10 to about 10:1 by weight. Also disclosed is a geotropic propagule coated with the insecticidal composition.Further disclosed is a liquid composition comprising the insecticidal composition, and a method for protecting a geotropic propagule and plant derived therefrom from a phytophagous insect pest.
US08563468B2 Color developing composition containing molecular compound, and recording material
Provided is a color-developing composition containing a molecular compound which has as a component compound a compound represented by formula (I) [wherein Y represents a C1-C12 hydrocarbon group which is chained or branched and saturated or unsaturated, or a C1-C8 hydrocarbon group which is chained or branched, saturated or unsaturated and has an ether or thioether bond; R1, R2, R3 and R4 each independently represent a C1-C6 alkyl group or C2-C6 alkenyl group; n, p, q and r each represents any integer of 0 to 4; and m represents any integer of 0 to 2]. Also provided is a recording material with a sufficient color-forming sensitivity, superior storage stability, and especially with an extremely little background fogging in a heat resistance test.
US08563467B2 Method for preparation of activated carbon
A method of preparing activated carbon, is disclosed, comprising: exposing carbonaceous material to microwave radiation in the presence of water to produce activated carbon.
US08563466B2 Polysaccharide-inorganic composite particles as performance additives for super-absorbent polymers
The present invention relates to discrete particulate composite additives for superabsorbent polymers and includes a method of making same. The discrete particulate composite additives generally comprise a polysaccharide and an inert inorganic component. Advantageously, these discrete particulate composite additives functionally improve superabsorbent performance. They are suitable for a number of applications, including the use and manufacture of hygiene products.
US08563465B2 Hydrogen storage material
The hydrogen storage material of the invention is a hydrogen storage material comprising metal fine particles with hydrogen storage capacity, and an organic compound that has at least two specific groups that can bind with the metal fine particles, and that is bonded with the metal fine particles by the specific groups.
US08563462B2 Catalyst compositions based on nanoparticles of a zirconium oxide, a titanium oxide or a mixed zirconium/titanium oxide deposited onto a silica support therefor
Catalyst compositions include finely divided nanoscale particles of at least one supported oxide, based on a zirconium oxide, a titanium oxide or a mixed zirconium/titanium oxide deposited onto a silica based support, wherein, after calcination for 4 hours at 900° C., the supported oxide is in the form of nanoscale particles deposited onto the support, the size of the particles being at most 5 nm when the at least one supported oxide is based on a zirconium oxide, being at most 10 nm when the at least one supported oxide is based on a titanium oxide and being at most 8 nm when the at least one supported oxide is based on a mixed zirconium/titanium oxide; such catalyst compositions are especially useful for the selective reduction of NOx.
US08563456B2 Hydrodemetallization catalyst and process
This invention is directed to hydrodemetallization catalysts and hydrodemetallization processes employing a magnesium aluminosilicate clay. The magnesium aluminosilicate clay has a characteristic 29Si NMR spectrum. The magnesium aluminosilicate clay is the product of a series of specific reaction steps. Briefly, the magnesium aluminosilicate clay employed in the catalyst and process of the invention is made by combining a silicon component, an aluminum component, and a magnesium component, under aqueous conditions and at an acidic pH, to form a first reaction mixture and subsequently the pH of the first reaction mixture is adjusted to greater than about 7.5 to form a second reaction mixture. The second reaction mixture is allowed to react under conditions sufficient to form the magnesium aluminosilicate clay. The resulting magnesium aluminosilicate clay combines high surface area and activity for use in hydrodemetallization catalysts and processes.
US08563455B2 Process for regenerating catalyst
Disclosed is a catalyst distributor and process for mixing spent catalyst and recycled regenerated catalyst in a regenerator vessel. Mixing is conducted in a confined space to which catalyst is delivered from catalyst conduits protruding through the wall of the regenerator.
US08563454B2 Refractory product with high zirconia content
A fused and cast refractory product including, in mass percentages on the basis of the oxides and for a total of 100% of the oxides: ZrO2 + Hf2O:balance to 100%; SiO2: 7.0% to 11.0%; Al2O3:0.2% to 0.7%; Na2O + K2O:<0.10%; B2O3:0.3% to 1.5%; CaO + SrO + MgO + ZnO + BaO: <0.4%; P2O5:<0.15%; Fe2O3 + TiO2:<0.55%; Other oxide species: <1.5%; the mass content of a dopant selected from Nb2O5, Ta2O5 and mixtures thereof being of less or equal to 1.0%, and the A/B ratio of the Al2O3/B2O3 mass contents being less than or equal to 2.0.
US08563448B2 Friction member and friction material thereof
A friction material includes a resin and a fibrous base material impregnated with the resin. The fibrous base material has a single ply, and includes a plurality of aramid fibers present in a first amount, a plurality of polyacrylonitrile-based carbon fibers present in a second amount that is less than the first amount, a plurality of carbon particles present in a third amount that is less than or equal to the second amount, a plurality of mineral fibers present in a fourth amount that is less than or equal to the second amount, and diatomaceous earth present in a fifth amount that is greater than the first amount. A friction member for operatively contacting a lubricated surface includes a substrate and the friction material. The friction material defines a first surface bonded to the substrate and a second surface configured for operatively contacting the lubricated surface.
US08563446B2 Technique to create a buried plate in embedded dynamic random access memory device
A method for forming a trench structure is provided for a semiconductor and/or memory device, such as an DRAM device. In one embodiment, the method for forming a trench structure includes forming a trench in a semiconductor substrate, and exposing the sidewalls of the trench to an arsenic-containing gas to adsorb an arsenic containing layer on the sidewalls of the trench. A material layer is then deposited on the sidewalls of the trench to encapsulate the arsenic-containing layer between the material layer and sidewalls of the trench.
US08563441B2 Methods for fabricating memory cells having fin structures with smooth sidewalls and rounded top corners and edges
Methods for fabricating a semiconductor FIN structure with smooth sidewalls and rounded top corners and edges is disclosed. A method includes forming a plurality of semiconductor FIN structures. A sacrificial oxide layer is formed on the top surface and the sidewall surfaces of the plurality of semiconductor FIN structures for rounding the corners and edges between the top surfaces and the sidewall surfaces of the plurality of semiconductor FIN structures. The sacrificial oxide layer is removed with a high selectivity oxide etchant. The plurality of semiconductor FIN structures are annealed in a hydrogen environment. A tunnel oxide is formed over the plurality of semiconductor FIN structures.
US08563439B2 Method of pitch dimension shrinkage
An embodiment of the disclosure includes a method of pitch reduction. A substrate is provided. A first material layer is formed over the substrate. A second material layer is formed on the first material layer. A hardmask layer is formed on the second material layer. A first imaging layer is formed on the hardmask layer. The first imaging layer is patterned to form a plurality of first features over the hardmask layer. The hardmask layer is etched utilizing the first imaging layer as a mask to form the first features in the hardmask layer. The first imaging layer is removed to expose the etched hardmask layer and a portion of a top surface of the second material layer. A second imaging layer is formed and the process is repeated, such that first and second features are alternating with a pitch substantially half the original pitch.
US08563434B2 Semiconductor device contacts
A method of fabrication of electrical contact structures on a semiconductor material includes depositing an oxide of a desired contact material by a chemical electroless process on a face of the semiconductor material and reducing the oxide via a chemical electroless process to produce a contact of the desired contact material. A method of fabrication of a semiconductor device incorporating such electrical contact structures and a semiconductor device incorporating such electrical contact structures are also described.
US08563430B2 Semiconductor integrated circuit and method for fabricating the same
A semiconductor integrated circuit includes: a semiconductor chip; a through-chip via passing through a conductive pattern disposed in the semiconductor chip and cutting the conductive pattern; and an insulation pattern disposed on an outer circumference surface of the through-chip via to insulate the conductive pattern from the through-chip via.
US08563425B2 Selective local interconnect to gate in a self aligned local interconnect process
A semiconductor device fabrication process includes forming a gate of a transistor on a semiconductor substrate using a hard mask. The hard mask is selectively removed in one or more selected regions over the gate. The removal of the hard mask in the selected regions allows the gate to be connected to an upper metal layer through at least one insulating layer located substantially over the transistor. Conductive material is deposited in one or more trenches formed through the at least one insulating layer. The conductive material forms a local interconnect to the gate in at least one of the selected regions.
US08563418B2 Semiconductor device and method of forming vertically offset bond on trace interconnects on different height traces
A method of making a semiconductor device includes providing a substrate, and forming a first conductive layer over the substrate. A patterned layer is formed over the first conductive layer. A second conductive layer is formed in the patterned layer. A height of the second conductive layer is greater than a height of the first conductive layer. The patterned layer is removed. A first bump and a second bump are formed over the first and second conductive layers, respectively, wherein the second bump overlaps the first bump, and wherein an uppermost surface of the second bump is vertically offset from an uppermost surface of the first bump. Bond wires are formed on the first and second bumps. The bond wires are arranged in a straight configuration. Lowermost surfaces of the first conductive layer and second conductive layer are substantially coplanar.
US08563412B2 Method of fabricating semiconductor device
A method of fabricating a semiconductor device includes forming gate patterns on a substrate, forming spacers on sidewalls of the gate patterns, forming a first capping insulation layer pattern on the gate patterns and the spacers, forming a second capping insulation layer pattern on the first capping insulation layer pattern, forming a passivation layer pattern filling contact holes between the gate patterns, removing the second capping insulation layer pattern while protecting the spacers using the passivation layer pattern, removing the passivation layer pattern to expose a top surface of the substrate, forming a silicide forming metal film on the surface of the substrate, and forming silicide patterns on the exposed top surface of the substrate.
US08563410B2 End-cut first approach for critical dimension control
A method for fabricating a semiconductor device is disclosed. The method includes forming at least one material layer over a substrate; performing an end-cut patterning process to form an end-cut pattern overlying the at least one material layer; transferring the end-cut pattern to the at least one material layer; performing a line-cut patterning process after the end-cut patterning process to form a line-cut pattern overlying the at least one material layer; and transferring the line-cut pattern to the at least one material layer.
US08563407B2 Dual sided workpiece handling
A method includes positioning at least one dual sided workpiece on an assembly in a process chamber to expose a first side of the at least one dual sided workpiece, treating the first side of the at least one dual sided workpiece, reorienting a portion of the assembly in the process chamber to expose a second side of the at least one dual sided workpiece, the second side opposing the first side, and treating the second side. A processing apparatus including a process chamber defining an enclosed volume and a dual sided workpiece assembly disposed in the enclosed volume is also provided.
US08563405B2 Method for manufacturing semiconductor device
A method for manufacturing semiconductor device includes the following steps. First, a carrier substrate and a plurality of pieced segments of wafer are provided. Each of the pieced segments of wafer has an active surface and a back surface on opposite sides thereof. Further, there is at least a bonding pad disposed on the active surface. Next, an adhering layer is formed between the carrier substrate and the active surfaces of the pieced segments of wafer, so as to make the pieced segments of wafer adhere to the carrier substrate. Next, a through silicon via is formed in each of the pieced segments of wafer to electrically connect to the bonding pad correspondingly. Then, the pieced segments of wafer are separated from the carrier substrate.
US08563401B2 Method for fabricating SOI substrate
There is provided a method for manufacturing an SOI substrate capable of effectively and efficiently embrittling an interface of an ion-implanted layer without causing the separation of a bonded surface 9 or the breakage of a bonded wafer.Provided is a method for manufacturing an SOI substrate 8 by forming an SOI layer 4 on a surface of a transparent insulating substrate 3, the method comprising, in the following order, implanting ions into a silicon wafer 5 or a silicon wafer 5 with an oxide film 7 from a surface thereof so as to form an ion-implanted layer 2; subjecting at least one of the surface of the transparent insulating substrate and the surface of the ion-implanted silicon wafer or the silicon wafer with an oxide film to a surface activation treatment; bonding together the silicon wafer 5 or the silicon wafer 5 with an oxide film 7 and the transparent insulating substrate 3; subjecting the bonded wafer to a heat treatment at 150° C. or higher but not higher than 350° C. so as to obtain a laminate 6; and irradiating visible light at a side of the transparent insulating substrate 3 of the laminate 6 toward the ion-implanted layer 2 of the silicon wafer 5 or the silicon wafer 5 with an oxide film 7 to embrittle an interface of the ion-implanted layer 2 and transfer a silicon thin film to the transparent insulating substrate 3 so that the SOI layer 4 can be formed.