| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08634257B2 |
Semiconductor storage device with memory cell utilized as a set-dedicated memory cell
A semiconductor storage device crystallizes variable resistive element material layers arranged on side surfaces of multiple semiconductor layers in a stacked structure concurrently by applying a first current to any one of semiconductor layers in the stacked structure, and thereafter applies a second current to semiconductor layers other than a semiconductor layer to which the first current was applied. |
| US08634255B2 |
Charge pump circuit, nonvolatile memory, data processing apparatus, and microcomputer application system
Improvement technology of a charge pump circuit is provided for avoiding device destruction due to electrification of an intermediate node of plural capacitors coupled in series to form one step-up capacitor, and avoiding reduction of pump efficiency due to leakage current which flows through a leakage path of the intermediate node concerned. A charge pump circuit includes a step-up capacitor configured by a first capacitance and a second capacitance coupled in series, a capacitance driver, and a protection circuit. The protection circuit is set at a conductive state and discharges a stored charge at the series coupling node of the first capacitance and the second capacitance, when the step-up voltage is not generated, and the protection circuit is maintained in a non-conductive state, when the step-up voltage is generated. Accordingly, relaxation of the withstand voltage of the step-up capacitor is achieved, and reduction of the pump efficiency is avoided. |
| US08634246B2 |
Nonvolatile memory device, operating method thereof and memory system including the same
A method of operating a non-volatile memory device includes performing an erasing operation to memory cells associated with a string selection line (SSL), the memory cells associated with the SSL constituting a memory block, and verifying the erasing operation to second memory cells associated with a second word line (WL) after verifying the erasing operation to first memory cells associated with a first word line (WL). |
| US08634244B2 |
Adjusting program and erase voltages in a memory device
A system and apparatus for adjusting threshold program and erase voltages in a memory array, such as a floating gate memory array, for example. One such method includes applying a first voltage level to a first edge word line of a memory block string and applying a second voltage level to a second edge word line of the memory block string. Such a method might also include applying a third voltage level to non-edge word lines of the memory block string. |
| US08634242B2 |
Flash memory having multi-level architecture
Subject matter disclosed herein relates to a multi-level flash memory and a process flow to form same. |
| US08634238B2 |
Magnetic memory element having an adjustment layer for reducing a leakage magnetic field from a reference layer and magnetic memory thereof
According to one embodiment, a magnetic memory element includes a memory layer, a first nonmagnetic layer, a reference layer, a second nonmagnetic layer, and an adjustment layer which are stacked. The adjustment layer is configured to reduce a leakage magnetic field from the reference layer. The adjustment layer is formed by stacking an interface layer provided on the second nonmagnetic layer, and a magnetic layer having magnetic anisotropy perpendicular to a film surface. Saturation magnetization of the interface layer is larger than that of the magnetic layer. |
| US08634237B2 |
Magnetic memory device
A magnetic memory device comprises a magnetic wire extending in a first direction, a pair of first electrodes operable to pass a current through the magnetic wire in the first direction or in an opposite direction to the first direction, a first insulating layer provided on the magnetic wire in a second direction being substantially perpendicular to the first direction, a plurality of second electrodes provided on the first insulating layer and provided at specified interval in the second direction, and a third electrode electrically connected to the plurality of second electrodes. |
| US08634233B2 |
Systems and methods for direct communication between magnetic tunnel junctions
Systems and methods that enable direct communications between magnetic tunnel junctions are provided. In one embodiment, a device includes multiple input magnetic tunnel junctions and an output magnetic tunnel junction. The multiple input magnetic tunnel junctions are connected in parallel, and the output magnetic tunnel junction is connected in series to the input magnetic tunnel junctions. In another embodiment, a device includes a first magnetic tunnel junction, a second magnetic tunnel junction, and a nano-magnetic channel. Each of the first and the second magnetic tunnel junctions has a free layer, a nonmagnetic layer, and a fixed layer. The nano-magnetic channel connects the free layer of the first magnetic tunnel junction to the free layer of the second magnetic tunnel junction. |
| US08634232B2 |
Write driver circuit for MRAM, MRAM and layout structure thereof
A write driver circuit for a magnetic random access memory includes a memory cell array including a plurality of magnetic memory cells in which a pair of magnetic memory cells adjacent to each other in a direction of a bit line share a source line, and each magnetic memory cell is connected between the bit line and the source line. The write driver circuit includes a switching unit connected between a terminal for supplying a positive recording voltage and a terminal for supplying a negative recording voltage to selectively supply current generated by the positive recording voltage or the negative recording voltage to the bit line according to a write enable signal and a data signal. |
| US08634229B2 |
Dynamic memory cell provided with a field-effect transistor having zero swing
A memory cell is provided with a transistor which includes source and drain electrodes formed in a semiconductor film by respectively N-doped and P-doped areas. The transistor includes first and second devices for generating a potential barrier in the semiconductor film. The two potential barriers are shifted laterally and are opposed to the passage of the charge carriers emitted by the nearest source/drain electrode. One of the devices for generating the potential barrier is electrically connected to the gate. The other of the devices for generating the potential barrier is electrically connected to the counter-electrode. The writing of a high state is carried out by imposing on the P-doped electrode a potential higher than that of the N-doped electrode and charging the capacitor formed between the gate and the semiconductor film. The resetting of the memory cell is obtained by discharging the capacitor. |
| US08634228B2 |
Driving method of semiconductor device
A driving method of a semiconductor device is provided. In a semiconductor device including a bit line, a selection line, a selection transistor, m (m is a natural number greater than or equal to 2) writing word lines, m reading word lines, a source line, and first to m-th memory cells, each memory cell includes a first transistor and a second transistor that holds charge accumulated in a capacitor. The second transistor includes a channel formed in an oxide semiconductor layer. In a driving method of a semiconductor device having the above structure, when writing to a memory cell is performed, the first transistor is turned on so that a first source terminal or a first drain terminal is set to a fixed potential; thus, a potential is stably written to the capacitor. |
| US08634225B2 |
Method and apparatus managing worn cells in resistive memories
A method and apparatus for management worn resistive memory cells are presented. A normal read mode or worn memory cell detecting mode are used depending on the wear state of a resistive memory cell. A detection reference point is changed upon wear indication to detect the resistance of the resistive memory cell. The resistance of the resistive memory cell is detected using the changed detection reference point to determine whether or not the resistive memory cell is worn by comparing the detected resistance to a wear reference level. |
| US08634222B2 |
Memory devices having select gates with P type bodies, memory strings having separate source lines and methods
Memory devices and methods of operating memory devices are shown. Configurations described include a memory cell string having an elongated n type body region and having select gates with p type bodies. Configurations and methods shown can provide a reliable bias to a body region for memory operations such as erasing. |
| US08634218B2 |
Monolithic AC/DC converter for generating DC supply voltage
An integrated circuit (IC) comprises a rectifier/regulator circuit coupled to receive an ac source voltage and output a regulated dc voltage. The rectifier/regulator circuit includes first and second switching elements that provide charging current when enabled. The first and second switching elements do not provide charging current when disabled. A sensor circuit is coupled to sense the regulated dc voltage and generate a feedback control signal coupled to the rectifier/regulator circuit that enables the first and second switching elements when the regulated dc voltage is above a target voltage, and disables the first and second switching elements when the regulated dc voltage is below the target voltage. |
| US08634215B2 |
Rectifier circuit with a voltage sensor
A rectifier circuit with a synchronously controlled semiconductor element. The rectifier circuit includes at least one field effect transistor with a control electrode and two switching electrodes. The control electrode operates the reverse state and the forward state between the switching electrodes. At least one driver, which cooperates with a voltage sensor of the field effect transistor, controls this to the forward state during the diode operating state of the field effect transistor. The voltage sensor includes a sensor output capacitance that forms a non-linear voltage divider with an external reference capacitance. |
| US08634213B2 |
Power supply circuit with a control terminal for different functional modes of operation
A method of operation for flyback power converter includes operating a controller of the flyback power converter in a regulation mode when a control signal is below a first threshold. The control signal is provided as an input to a terminal of the flyback power converter. When the control signal is below a second threshold and above the first threshold, the controller is operated in a limiting mode. The controller is operated in an external command mode when the control signal is below a third threshold and above the second threshold. Lastly, when the control signal is above the third threshold, the controller is operated in a protection mode. |
| US08634210B2 |
DC-DC converter including switching frequency control circuit
A DC-DC converter includes a series circuit including a primary transformer coil and a main switch element connected between a power input terminal and a ground terminal. A secondary transformer coil is connected to a rectifying/smoothing circuit including rectification-side and commutation-side synchronous rectifiers, a smoothing capacitor, and a choke coil. The output voltage from the rectifying/smoothing circuit is supplied to a load connected to a power output terminal. An input voltage detection circuit detects the voltage between the power input terminal and the ground terminal, and supplies a detection signal to a VIN terminal of a switching control circuit. The switching control circuit performs PWM control to maintain a constant output voltage output to the load, reduces the switching frequency when the input voltage input to the VIN terminal is low, and increases the switching frequency in accordance with an increase in the input voltage. |
| US08634208B2 |
Chip card holding mechanism and portable electronic device
A portable electronic device includes a housing and a chip card holding mechanism assembled within the housing. The housing defines a mounting slot and an unlocking hole adjacent to the mounting slot. The chip card holding mechanism includes a support base assembled adjacent to the mounting slot, a receiving tray and an unlocking assembly. The receiving tray is slidably mounted on the support base and includes a tray body and an operating portion formed at one end of the tray body. The operating portion has a resisting surface. The unlocking assembly includes a cam body rotatably assembled to the housing and a driving member. The cam body forms a cam resisting portion resisting against the resisting surface of the receiving tray. The driving portion is inserted into the unlocking hole for driving the cam body to rotate thereby ejecting the receiving tray. |
| US08634202B2 |
Power transforming circuit board
A power transforming circuit board includes a substrate and at least one power output structure. The substrate has at least one power transforming circuit and at least one pair of power input holes. The power output structure is disposed on the substrate. Each power output structure is electrically connected with one corresponding power transforming circuit. Each power output structure has at least one cable connecting hole. The normal direction of each power output structure is oriented at an angle with respect to the normal direction of the substrate. |
| US08634197B2 |
Board module and printer
There is provided a board module to be mounted on an electronic apparatus for adding functions to the electronic apparatus. A second board extends perpendicularly from a first board. The second board is locked to the first board at an abutting end which abuts on the first board. A plate-shaped board fixing member pinches and fixes a fixed end of the second board, which is parallel to the abutting end. The board fixing member is arranged parallel to the first board. The board fixing member is formed with a slit-shaped opening into which the fixed end is inserted, a pair of pinching projections protruding from an opening edge of the opening and pinching the fixed end from both front and rear surfaces of the second board, and a pair of slits being located adjacent to the pair of pinching projections, respectively and being parallel to the opening. |
| US08634194B2 |
Power conversion apparatus
A power conversion apparatus is provided which includes a semiconductor module which include a switching element, a cooler which cools the semiconductor module, and has a pair of cylindrical pipes which introduce a cooling medium to a channel therein or discharge the cooling medium, a frame which holds the cooler, and a pair of clamps which fix the cylindrical pipes to the frame. Each of the clamps has a fastener portion which is fastened to the frame, and a pressing portion which presses the cylindrical pipe toward the frame. Each of the cylindrical pipes is held between a concave support portion, which is formed in the frame, and the clamp. Each of the cylindrical pipes is supported by two support surfaces of the concave support portion and the pressing portion of the clamp at three support points when viewing from the direction in which the cylindrical pipe extends. |
| US08634192B2 |
Information handling system cooling system
An information handling system (IHS) cooling system includes an IHS chassis defining an IHS chassis air inlet. A cooling chassis supports the IHS chassis on a support base. An air supply duct extends from the cooling chassis such that an air supply duct outlet on the air supply duct is immediately adjacent the IHS chassis air inlet. An air cooling subsystem is located in the cooling chassis and is operable to cool air that is drawn into the cooling chassis and supply the cooled air to the IHS chassis air inlet through the air supply duct. The IHS chassis may be a conventional IHS chassis that is designed for sub-35 degree Celsius ambient temperatures, and the cooling chassis may be provided for the conventional IHS chassis when used in extreme environments with high ambient temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius. |
| US08634191B2 |
Portable electronic device with buffered internal electronic module
An exemplary portable electronic device includes a bottom cover, a top cover, an electronic module, and elastic washers. The top cover engages with the bottom cover to define a space therebetween. The electronic module is received in the space. Poles protrude up from the bottom cover. The elastic washers are fixed on the electronic module. A through hole is defined in each of the washers. The poles respectively extend through the through holes of the washers, and opposite ends of each of the washers respectively elastically abut the top cover and the bottom cover. |
| US08634189B2 |
System and method for releasing a peripheral slice from an information handling system
Alignment posts that aid alignment of a peripheral slice to couple to the bottom surface of an information handling system also interface with a release so that actuation of the release translates to movement of the alignment posts relative to the peripheral slice so that the information handling system slides relative to the peripheral slice. Sliding of the peripheral slice relative to the information handling system releases attachment devices, such as hooks of the peripheral device that couple to attachment points of the information handling system so that the peripheral device decouples from the information handling system. |
| US08634188B2 |
Notebook computer docking stations
A docking station for supporting a notebook computer. In one embodiment, an docking station includes a base, a platform on which the notebook computer can be placed, and a platform support armature that extends up from the base and supports the platform, wherein the armature can be pivoted to change the height of the platform and the platform can be pivoted independent of the armature to change an angle of inclination of the platform. |
| US08634185B2 |
Data storage device carrier assembly
A data storage device assembly includes a drive bracket. The drive bracket includes a first side plate and a second side plate which faces to the first side plate. Each of the first side plate and the second side plate defines a slide way which is adapted to receive a data storage device assembly sliding therein. The first piece and a second piece is secured together on the first side plate. The second piece includes a pair of first bent pieces and a pair of second bent pieces connected to edges of the second piece. The pair of first bent pieces faces to each other. The pair of second bent pieces faces to each other. The pair of first bent pieces is secured to the pair of second bent pieces. |
| US08634184B2 |
Portable apparatus and sliding device thereof
Disclosed is a sliding-type portable apparatus and a sliding device of the sliding-type portable apparatus. The portable apparatus includes a main body, a display unit, and a sliding device, in which the sliding device enables the automatic sliding of the keypad unit according to the sliding of the display unit. Further, the portable apparatus includes a driving unit to semi-automatically open/close the display unit and the keypad unit. |
| US08634183B2 |
Automatic hinge opening assembly for electronic device
In one embodiment an electronic device comprises a housing having a first section comprising a display and a second section comprising a keyboard coupled to the first section by a hinge assembly and an automatic hinge opening assembly for the housing. The automat hinge opening assembly comprises a hinge pin assembly mountable to the first section of the housing of the electronic device a pin rotatable about an axis between a first position and a second position and a hinge plate coupled to the pin and connectable to a hinge which connects the first section of the housing to a second section of the housing, and at least one torsion member coupled to the pin to apply a torque to the pin, wherein the torsion member is to store potential energy when the first section of the housing and the second section of the housing are in a closed position. Other embodiments may be described. |
| US08634181B2 |
Multiple-track supercapacitor
The invention relates to a supercapacitor that comprises at least two juxtaposed complexes (1, 2) spaced by a distance d, and at least one common complex (3) located opposite the two juxtaposed complexes (1, 2) and spaced therefrom by at least one spacer (4), the spacer (4) and the complexes (1, 2, 3) being spirally wound together in order to form a coiled element. |
| US08634176B2 |
Overvoltage protector
An overvoltage protector having a housing and at least one overvoltage limiter arranged in the housing, especially a gas-filled surge arrester (1), a suppressor diode (2) or a varistor. The functional ability and the state of the overvoltage protector can be controlled during operation by associating a monitoring component with the overvoltage limiter which detects a current (i) flowing over the overvoltage limiter component, and by providing an evaluation unit that evaluates the signal of the monitoring component. |
| US08634170B2 |
Semiconductor integrated circuit
An integrated circuit formed on a semiconductor chip includes voltage regulators for stepping down an externally-supplied power voltage to produce an internal power voltage, and internal circuits which operate based on the internal power voltage. The voltage regulators are laid in the area of the buffers and protective elements for the input/output signals and power voltages so that the overhead area due to the on-chip provision of the voltage regulators is minimized. The internal power voltage is distributed to the internal circuits through a looped main power line, with an electrode pad for connecting an external capacitor for stabilizing the internal power voltage being provided on it, so that the internal power voltage is stabilized and the power consumption of the integrated circuit is minimized. |
| US08634169B2 |
Anti-lightning automatic switch for a satellite television receiver
An anti-lightning automatic switch for a satellite television receiver comprises a housing, external terminals which are connected with external cables are respectively arranged at two ends of the housing, wherein an on-off interface is arranged at the other end of the external terminal on one side, and internal cable is connected to the other end of the external terminal on the other side; and a guide rail unit is arranged in the housing, a driving mechanism is mounted on the guide rail unit, the driving mechanism is connected with the external terminal on the other side through the internal cable, a control circuit board and a motor controlled by the control circuit board are arranged on the driving mechanism, and a contact which is used in combination with the on-off interface is mounted at one end of the driving mechanism. |
| US08634167B2 |
Magnetic head with self compensating dual thermal fly height control
A magnetic head for data recording having a pair of heating elements that self regulate in response to temperature to distribute heat for thermal actuation. The head includes a first heating element located adjacent to the read sensor and away from the writer, and a second heating element located adjacent to the writer. The first and second heating elements have different coefficients of thermal resistance that cause the heating of the second heating element to increase relative to that of the first heating element when the overall temperature increases or when power provided by a power source increases. There, thereby prevents the read sensor from extending too much and possibly contacting the disk. |
| US08634161B2 |
Systems having writer with deeper wrap around shield and methods for making the same
A method according to one embodiment includes etching an underlayer positioned under a main pole for reducing a thickness thereof and creating an undercut under the main pole; adding a gap material along sides of the main pole and in the undercut; and forming a shield along at least a portion of the gap material. A magnetic head according to one embodiment includes a main pole; an underlayer positioned under the main pole and spaced therefrom, thereby defining an undercut therebetween; a first layer of gap material extending along sides of the main pole and in the undercut; a second layer of gap material extending continuously along the underlayer under the main pole; and a shield encircling the main pole, wherein the shield extends between the first and second layers of gap material in the undercut. Additional systems and methods are also presented. |
| US08634156B2 |
Storage system, storage control apparatus, and storage control method
In a storage system, when power supply to HDDs is instantaneously interrupted, a spin up controller of a magnetic disk apparatus spins up the HDDs. On the other hand, based on a response for an access to the HDDs in the magnetic disk apparatus, when detecting that the HDDs as an access destination are spun down, a spin up controller of a control apparatus spins up the HDDs. When a certain number of the HDDs or more are spun down, a separate controller does not permit the magnetic disk apparatus to be used for a given length of time. While the magnetic disk apparatus is not permitted to be used, the HDDs are spun up by using the spin up controller of the magnetic disk apparatus. |
| US08634154B1 |
Disk drive writing a sync mark seam in a bootstrap spiral track
A disk drive is disclosed comprising a head actuated over a disk, and a spindle motor operable to rotate the disk. A bootstrap spiral track is written to the disk, wherein the bootstrap spiral track comprises a high frequency signal interrupted by sync marks. A first sync mark is written while writing a first part of the bootstrap spiral track, and a second sync mark is written while writing a second part of the bootstrap spiral track. A switch between writing the first sync mark and the second sync mark is made in response to a spindle BEMF voltage, thereby generating a sync mark seam in the bootstrap spiral track. |
| US08634153B2 |
Perpendicular magnetic recording medium, method of manufacturing the same, and magnetic recording/reproduction apparatus
According to one embodiment, a magnetic recording medium includes a substrate, an auxiliary layer formed on the substrate, and at least one perpendicular magnetic recording layer formed on the auxiliary layer. The perpendicular magnetic recording layer includes a magnetic dot pattern. The perpendicular magnetic recording layer is made of an alloy material containing one element selected from iron and cobalt, and one element selected from platinum and palladium. This alloy material has the L10 structure, and is (001)-oriented. The auxiliary layer includes a dot-like first region covered with the magnetic dot pattern, and a second region not covered with the magnetic dot pattern. The first region is made of one metal selected from (100)-oriented nickel and (100)-oriented iron. The second region contains an oxide of the metal used in the first region. |
| US08634150B2 |
Voice coil motor
A voice coil motor includes a stationary magnetic field generator with a receiving space, a moveable magnetic field generator received in the receiving space, a lens module, a base, and a lower elastic plate. The moveable magnetic field generator includes a lens retainer. The lens retainer defines a circular hole with internal threads. The lens module forms external threads threadedly engaging with the internal threads. An adhesive is coated between the external and internal threads. The stationary magnetic field generator is supported on the base. The base defines an opening in its center. The lower elastic plate is sandwiched between the base and the stationary magnetic field generator and defines a light passing hole. The lower elastic plate includes an elastic portion surrounding the light passing hole. A cross-sectional area of the elastic portion is less than a cross-sectional area of the opening. |
| US08634145B2 |
Liquid meniscus lens with concave torus-segment meniscus wall
The present invention relates generally to a liquid meniscus lens with a meniscus wall. Some specific embodiments include a liquid meniscus lens with a meniscus wall essentially in the shape of a conical frustum with at least a portion of the conical frustum concave toward the optical axis. Embodiments may also include a lens of suitable size and shape for inclusion in a contact lens. |
| US08634142B2 |
Evanescent electromagnetic wave conversion apparatus II
Apparatus, methods, and systems provide conversion of evanescent electromagnetic waves to non-evanescent electromagnetic waves and/or conversion of non-evanescent electromagnetic waves to evanescent electromagnetic waves. In some approaches the conversion includes propagation of electromagnetic waves within an indefinite electromagnetic medium, and the indefinite medium may include an artificially-structured material such as a layered structure or other metamaterial. |
| US08634138B2 |
Lens barrel and optical apparatus including the same
A lens barrel includes first and second driving units configured to move first and second moving frames in an optical axis direction, and two correction driving sources configured to move the second moving frame in a direction perpendicular to an optical axis. Moving ranges in the optical axis direction of the first and second moving frames overlap with each other. The first and second moving frames are connected to a fixing portion of a fixed barrel by first and second flexible printed boards. One of the first and second driving units is located on a side of the optical axis opposite one of the second correction driving sources, and U-turn portions of the first and second flexible printed boards are located on a side of the optical axis opposite the other correction driving source, when viewed in the optical axis direction. |
| US08634137B2 |
Glare management of reflective and thermoreflective surfaces
The reflectivity and transmissivity of building and vehicle surfaces is maintained while employing partial, variable, selective, or asymmetric diffusers between a surface and an external light source such that the reflected light is diffused to produce a reduction in glare, while minimally effecting the specular or collimated transmission (if any) of light through the surface. Glare is also reduced by utilizing diffuser devices that reflect light in a temperature dependent manner. |
| US08634135B2 |
Optical plummet for use in geodesy
An optical plummet for use in geodesy includes an eyepiece, a target mark, and an objective. The target mark is positioned in the beam path between the eyepiece and the objective and the target mark and the eyepiece are supported by a first body and the objective is supported by a second body. Either the first body or second body has two annular recesses spaced apart from each other along the beam path and disposed coaxially with respect to the beam path. Each of the annular recesses accommodates a ring. The other body has at least sectionally a cylindrical outer surface extending coaxially through the two annular recesses and rings along the beam path and is guided by the ring such that the distance between the eyepiece and the objective is adjustable by moving the first body and the second body relative to one other along the beam path. |
| US08634129B2 |
Wavelength selective switch
Provided is a wavelength selective switch which includes: at least one input port; a dispersive portion for dispersing wavelength-multiplexed light input from the input port into wavelength-demultiplexed lights; a condenser element for condensing the wavelength-demultiplexed lights dispersed by the dispersive portion; a deflection portion having deflection elements for deflecting, for each wavelength-demultiplexed light condensed by the condenser element; at least one output port for outputting the wavelength-demultiplexed lights deflected by the deflection portion. A light-condensing position shift compensating element is disposed in an optical path between the input port and the dispersive portion or in the dispersive portion, for compensating light-condensing position shift of the wavelength-demultiplexed lights relative to the deflection element, light-condensing position shift being generated based on the arrangement of the input ports. |
| US08634128B2 |
Electrophoretic element, display, and electronic device
An electrophoretic element includes an electrophoretic particle, and a porous layer formed of a fibrous structure having a non-electrophoretic particle with different optical reflection characteristics from optical reflection characteristics of the electrophoretic particle. A difference Δ1 (=A−B) between a solubility parameter value A of the fibrous structure and a solubility parameter value B of a particle surface of the electrophoretic particle is 2 or more and 5.2 or less. |
| US08634125B2 |
System and method for displaying images
System and method for simultaneous display of multiple images using a single light modulator array. A preferred embodiment comprises a light source that produces a light with desired spectral characteristics, a color filter optically coupled to the light source, and an array of light modulators optically coupled to the color filter. The color filter filters light from the light source to produce light of desired wavelengths and the array of light modulators simultaneously displays multiple images onto a display plane. Portions of the array of light modulators are designed so that each portion can independently display an image and the light source provides needed light to display the image. |
| US08634124B2 |
Optical apparatus and imaging apparatus
Provided is an optical apparatus including a filter (102) that includes a first surface (105) intersecting a rotation axis at a predetermined angle and a second surface (106) orthogonal to the rotation axis and rotates around the rotation axis, a filter (110) that is arranged adjacent to the filter (102), includes a third surface (115) and a fourth surface (116) in a spatial relationship of point-symmetry to the first surface (105) and the second surface (106) about a point on the rotation axis between the filters, and rotates in an opposite direction of the filter (102) around the rotation axis. |
| US08634122B2 |
Optical scanner, method of manufacturing optical scanner, and image forming apparatus
An optical scanner includes: a movable section which has a light reflecting member with a light reflecting surface and which is rotatable around the central axis of rotation; at least a pair of movable beams extending from the movable section along the light reflecting surface; a displacement section which is connected to the movable beams and has a through hole including two fixed surfaces crossing each other; two driving beams which extend from the displacement section along a surface direction of the light reflecting surface so as to be perpendicular to the movable beams; a support section connected to each of the driving beams; a driving section which drives the displacement section; and a permanent magnet which is inserted in the through hole and is fixed to the two fixed surfaces. |
| US08634121B2 |
Mirror device, mirror array, optical switch, mirror device manufacturing method, and mirror substrate manufacturing method
A mirror device includes a mirror (153) which is supported to be pivotable with respect to a mirror substrate (151), a driving electrode (103-1-103-4) which is formed on an electrode substrate (101) facing the mirror substrate, and an antistatic structure (106) which is arranged in a space between the mirror and the electrode substrate. This structure can fix the potential of the lower surface of the mirror and suppress drift of the mirror by applying a second potential to the antistatic structure. |
| US08634118B2 |
Image processing apparatus and computer readable medium
An image processing apparatus includes a read unit and a first correction unit. The read unit reads a document and generates multilevel image data from the document. The first correction unit corrects the multilevel image data contained in a first range predetermined as a color indicating a fluorescent color so as to move the multilevel image data contained in the first range to an outside of a print color range when at least a part of the multilevel image data is contained in the first range. |
| US08634117B2 |
Profile creation by ink amount optimization for various print media to reproduce hue values
A second chromaticity value feature is corrected and approximated to a first chromaticity value feature, a new limit value for an ink amount is determined based on the second chromaticity value feature after the approximation, optimization is performed by designating an ink amount which is equal to or less than the newly determined limit value when an ink amount reproducing a hue value represented by a lattice point is determined by the optimization of the ink amount with the use of an object function for evaluating image quality when the designated amount of ink is made to adhere to a first print medium, the ink amount determined by the optimization is converted with a conversion relationship based on the first chromaticity value feature and the second value chromaticity feature. |
| US08634114B2 |
Image processing apparatus, image processing method and image scanning apparatus
An image processing apparatus including: a determining unit that performs determination so as to determine a color mode of a target image in a color mode order, in a page unit; and a subtracting unit that calculates a subtraction total number of pixels, wherein, the determining unit performs the determination of a first color mode in the color mode order based on a pixel ratio of a number of pixels of the first color mode in the color mode order to a total number of pixels, and the determining unit performs the determination of the second or subsequent color mode in the color mode order based on a pixel ratio of a number of pixels of the second or subsequent color mode in the color mode order to the subtraction total number of pixels calculated by the subtracting unit. |
| US08634109B2 |
Image forming apparatus, and control method and control program thereof
An image forming apparatus has an image carrier carrying an electrostatic latent image, a charging unit charging the surface of the image carrier, an exposure unit forming an electrostatic latent image by irradiating light onto the charged surface of the image carrier, a developing unit developing the electrostatic latent image formed on the surface of the image carrier using a developing material, and a transfer unit transferring a developer image onto a printing material. The apparatus has also an image correction unit correcting image data inputted to the exposure unit so as to compensate for deformation in the developer image originating in a form of the exposure unit, and a smoothing processing unit carrying out smoothing of an image by controlling the exposure unit so that dots of a size smaller than one pixel are filled with respect to a white image region of the corrected image data. |
| US08634108B2 |
Method and apparatus for inspecting image, image forming apparatus, and computer-readable recording medium storing image inspecting program
An image inspecting apparatus includes a first light illuminating unit that irradiates a measured object on which an image is formed with illuminating light from a diagonal direction; an imaging unit that receives specular light of the illuminating light with which the measured object is irradiated by the first light illuminating unit; and an image inspecting unit that inspects the image. The image inspecting unit generates gloss reference data from density distribution data included in print data used for forming the image by using a converting unit. The image inspecting unit inspects a gloss distribution of the image by using the gloss reference data and a gloss distribution of the image that is generated based on an amount of the specular light received by the imaging unit. |
| US08634104B2 |
Image processing apparatus and image processing method
Image data is divided into blocks each of a 2×2 pixel size, and color-reduction processing is performed for the target block based on color data and attribute data of respective pixels forming the target block. A pattern flag indicating the layout pattern of color data contained in the target block is specified by comparing the color data of the respective pixels in the target block having undergone the color-reduction processing. Color data corresponding to a pixel at a position defined in advance in the block having undergone the color-reduction processing is extracted as color data of the first color. When it is determined that the number of colors in the block is one of two to four, color data of the second to fourth colors are extracted. The pattern flag, the color data of the first color of the block, and those of the second to fourth colors of the block are output. |
| US08634097B2 |
Medium processing apparatus and controlling method of the same
A receiver configured to receive a first command that contains a predetermined code string and a second command that does not contain the predetermined code string from a host computer. A first command analyzer configured to analyze and process only the first command received by the receiver. A buffer configured to temporarily store at least the second command received by the receiver. A second command analyzer configured to analyze and process the second command stored by the buffer. A sound generator configured to generate a sound when the first command analyzer analyzes the first command and determines that the first command includes a sound generating command. The first command analyzer analyzes the first command before the buffer temporarily stores the first command. |
| US08634096B2 |
Apparatus, system, method, and medium for data control which enable power saving based on power-on information
A data control apparatus, which is connected to a plurality of information processing apparatus and controls information, relating to an image forming apparatus, transmitted from the information processing apparatus, the data control apparatus including: a communication section to receive power-on information, transmitted from the information processing section, for making the image forming apparatus into a power-on state, and identification information indicating a user who uses the information processing apparatus having transmitted the power-on information or the information processing apparatus having transmitted the power-on information; and a control section to control a number of power-on times of the image forming apparatus based on the power-on information and the identification information, received by the communication section. |
| US08634093B2 |
Image processing apparatus capable of recording user information into external recording medium, and control method and recording medium therefor
An image processing apparatus capable of recording user information into an external recording medium, while preventing an occurrence of a security problem. The image processing apparatus generates user information about an image processing job, and determines according to predetermined recording medium categories whether security information can be stored into an external recording medium in a case where the user information is recorded into the external recording medium. When determining that the security information cannot be stored into the external recording medium, the image processing apparatus removes predetermined security information from the user information and records the resultant information into the external recording medium. |
| US08634091B2 |
Image processing system, image processing method, storage medium, and image forming apparatus and external apparatus constituting image processing system
An image forming apparatus capable of being connected to an external apparatus through a network performs setting of processing to be executed in the image forming apparatus, receives from the external apparatus a web page for setting processing to be executed in the external apparatus, and displays the web page. Subsequently, the image forming apparatus transmits to the external apparatus an input value input by a user through the displayed web page, and receives an identifier associated with the input value from the external apparatus. The image forming apparatus transmits to the external apparatus the identifier and data to be executed in the processing in the external apparatus, and forms an image of data processed by the external apparatus according to the input value and processed by the image forming apparatus according to the setting. |
| US08634090B2 |
Data transfer apparatus, data transmitting and receiving apparatus, and image forming apparatus
A data transfer apparatus includes a transmitting unit, a transmission controlling unit, and a generating unit. The transmitting unit transmits transmit data over a transmission channel having a plurality of lines, such that the transmit data are assigned to the plurality of lines by information unit of the transmit data, the information unit. The transmission controlling unit appends control data to transfer data to be transferred to a receiving side to compose the transmit data, the control data being for controlling transmission and reception of the transfer data. The generating unit obtains information about the number of the lines. The generating unit determines, based on the number of the lines and the number of information units of the control data, the number of information units of the transfer data that makes the number of information units of the transmit data integral multiple of the number of the lines. |
| US08634086B2 |
Tandem printing system and method to control a tandem printing system, and computer system, and computer program product
In a printing system or method a first printing apparatus and a second printing apparatus are respectively selectively operable in simplex mode and duplex mode. Each of the printing apparatuses in simplex mode process print jobs independently of the respective other printing apparatus, and in duplex mode processing print jobs jointly by both of the printing apparatuses. The printing apparatuses are connected with one another for control at least in duplex mode. An activation operating unit is provided via which at least one of the two printing apparatuses is selectively activated for the simplex mode or both of the printing apparatuses are selectively activated for the duplex mode. |
| US08634083B2 |
Original document size detection device
An original document size detection device of the present invention is characterized by comprising a document reading table, a light source which irradiates an original document placed on the document reading table, a cover body which covers the original document, a light detection unit which detects a reflected light that a light from the light source is reflected by the original document and an external light that enters the surface of the document reading table when the cover body is lifted, a masking unit which masks an output signal based on the external light in the output signal of the light detection unit based on the reflected light and the external light, and a determination unit which determines a size of the original document in a main scanning direction based on the output signal of the light detection unit that is masked by the masking unit. |
| US08634080B2 |
Method for determining an active dopant concentration profile
A method for determining an active dopant concentration profile of a semiconductor substrate based on optical measurements is disclosed. The active dopant concentration profile includes a concentration level and a junction depth. In one aspect, the method includes obtaining a photomodulated optical reflectance (PMOR) amplitude offset curve and a PMOR phase offset curve for the semiconductor substrate based on PMOR measurements, determining a decay length parameter based on a first derivative of the amplitude offset curve, determining a wavelength parameter based on a first derivative of the phase offset curve, and determining, from the decay length parameter and the wavelength parameter, the concentration level and the junction depth of the active dopant concentration profile. |
| US08634079B2 |
Attraction state inspection device, surface mounting apparatus, and part test device
An attraction state inspection device includes a diffusion member that is disposed inside a nozzle group in which a plurality of nozzles that attract parts are disposed, and transmits incident light while diffusing the light, an image pickup is disposed on a side of the nozzle group apart from the diffusion member in a first direction, picks up an image of a part attracted by one nozzle positioned in the first direction with respect to the diffusion member, from among the plurality of nozzles, against a background of the diffusion member, and obtains an image of the part, an irradiation unit that is disposed opposite the image pickup unit with the diffusion member interposed therebetween, and radiates light toward the nozzle group, and an inspection unit that inspects an attraction state of the part on the basis of the image of the picked up part. |
| US08634077B2 |
Methods and systems for optically characterizing a turbid material using a structured incident beam
Methods and systems for optically characterizing a turbid sample are provided. A structured light beam is impinged on the sample. The sample includes an embedded region. A reflected light image of the structured light beam is detected from the sample. A measured reflectance image of the structured light beam for the sample is determined based on the reflected light image and a reflectance standard. The following parameters are determined: absorption coefficients ÿa, scattering coefficient ÿs and anisotropy factor g of the sample from the reflectance image. A size parameter of the embedded region is estimated based on the absorption coefficients ÿa, scattering coefficient ÿs and/or anisotropy factor g of the sample from the measured reflectance image. |
| US08634075B2 |
Scanning analyzer for single molecule detection and methods of use
The invention encompasses analyzers and analyzer systems that include a single molecule analyzer, methods of using the analyzer and analyzer systems to analyze samples, either for single molecules or for molecular complexes. The single molecule uses electromagnetic radiation that is translated through the sample to detect the presence or absence of a single molecule. The single molecule analyzer provided herein is useful for diagnostics because the analyzer detects single molecules with zero carryover between samples. |
| US08634071B2 |
System and method of closed carton inspection
An inspection of a closed carton for acceptable content fill may be provided by a transmitting unit and a receiving unit measuring intensity values of electromagnetic waves directed at the carton. A comparison of a reference intensity value to a measured intensity value may indicate whether the closed carton is filled correctly identifying missing contents such as the main product or a missing leaflet that may contain product instructions. |
| US08634067B2 |
Method and apparatus for detecting microscopic objects
Apparatus including a broadband illumination source and a confocal optical system. The confocal optical system is configured and arranged to receive a portion of light projected onto an object by the broadband illumination source. The apparatus can include an illumination source, a confocal optical system, and at least one detector configured and arranged to receive angularly separated light corresponding to a confocal volume. There is also provided a light scattering spectroscopic device including a broadband illumination source, a two-dimensional detector, and a spectral separation device configured and arranged to receive scattered light from an object and to direct at least a portion of the scattered light onto the two-dimensional detector. The method and apparatus can combine confocal microscopy techniques with light scattering spectroscopy techniques to create a confocal light scattering spectroscopy (CLSS) system. |
| US08634066B1 |
Authentication method and system
A method for authenticating an object, comprising determining a physical dispersion pattern of a set of elements, determining a physical characteristic of the set of elements which is distinct from a physical characteristic producible by a transfer printing technology, determining a digital code associated with the object defining the physical dispersion pattern, and authenticating the object by verifying a correspondence of the digital code with the physical dispersion pattern, and verifying the physical characteristic. |
| US08634064B2 |
Optical system for increasing illumination efficiency of a patterning device by producing a plurality of beams
A lithography system can include a radiation source, an illumination system, a patterning device, and a projection system. The illumination system can be configured to process a beam of radiation to produce a plurality of beams of radiation. The illumination system can include a pupil defining element, a condenser lens, a field defining element, a first relay that includes first and second lens arrays, a plurality of rods, a diaphragm having transmission areas, and a second relay. The patterning device can be configured to pattern the plurality of beams of radiation. Further, the projection system can be configured to project the patterned beams onto a substrate. |
| US08634063B2 |
Wafer with design printed outside active region and spaced by design tolerance of reticle blind
A printed wafer. A design is printed within a peripheral portion of the wafer. The peripheral portion of the wafer is between an outer boundary of an active portion of the wafer and an outer boundary of the wafer. The design may be a copy of a portion of a pattern that exists on a reticle of an exposure apparatus. The pattern may includes pattern elements such that adjacent pattern elements are separated by a spacing of about a sum of a first design tolerance (based on how accurately a reticle blind can be positioned within the exposure apparatus) and a second design tolerance (based on how sharply an edge of the reticle blind can be focused on the wafer by a lens). The design may visible to a naked eye unaided with no portion of the printed design within the active portion of the wafer. |
| US08634058B2 |
Lithographic apparatus and device manufacturing method
An immersion lithographic apparatus is provided in which a maximum permissible velocity of the substrate relative to a fluid confinement structure that controls the immersion fluid is determined based on a property of the substrate to be exposed and, during the exposure process, the velocity of the substrate relative to the fluid confinement structure is limited to be below this maximum permissible velocity. |
| US08634055B2 |
Apparatus and method to control vacuum at porous material using multiple porous materials
An immersion liquid confinement apparatus recovers an immersion liquid from an immersion area that includes a gap between a projection system and an object of exposure in an immersion lithography system. The apparatus includes a confinement member that includes an outlet and an aperture through which a patterned image is projected onto the object. A first liquid-permeable member covers the outlet and has a first surface that faces the object and a second surface opposite the first surface, the second surface contacting a first chamber. A second liquid-permeable member has first and second oppositely-facing surfaces, the first surface of the second liquid-permeable member contacts the first chamber, the second surface of the second liquid-permeable member contacts a second chamber that is different from the first chamber. A hydrophobic porous member is provided between the first chamber and a vacuum system that supplies a low pressure to the first chamber. |
| US08634054B2 |
Particle detection on an object surface
Systems and methods are provided for inspecting an object surface. An illumination source illuminates the object surface. An optic intercepts scattered light from the illuminated object surface and projects a real image of an area of the object surface. A sensor receives the projected real image. A computer system, coupled to the sensor, stores and analyzes the real image. The real image is processed to detect particles located on the object surface. This arrangement is particularly useful for detecting contaminants or defects on a reticle of a lithography device. |
| US08634053B2 |
Lithographic apparatus and device manufacturing method
A liquid confinement system for use in immersion lithography is disclosed in which the meniscus of liquid between the liquid confinement system and the substrate is pinned substantially in place by a meniscus pinning feature. The meniscus pinning feature comprises a plurality of discrete outlets arranged in a polygonal shape. |
| US08634052B2 |
Lithographic apparatus and method involving a ring to cover a gap between a substrate and a substrate table
A lithographic apparatus that includes a substrate table holding a substrate, a projection system configured to project a patterned beam of radiation onto the substrate, a liquid supply system configured to provide a liquid to a space between the projection system and the substrate table, and a ring located such that it covers a gap between the substrate and the substrate table, the ring being in contact with the substrate and with the substrate table. |
| US08634047B2 |
Liquid crystal display device and electronic apparatus
A liquid crystal display device includes a device substrate that includes a pixel electrode, a counter substrate that is formed opposite the device substrate and that includes a counter electrode, a liquid crystal layer that is formed between the device substrate and the counter substrate, a first alignment layer that is formed on a side of the device substrate which is closer to the liquid crystal layer, and a second alignment layer that is formed on a side of the counter substrate which is closer to the liquid crystal layer. The pixel electrode is made of a material having a work function smaller than that of a material for the counter electrode. The first alignment layer has substantially the same density as that of the second alignment layer, and the thickness d1 of the first alignment layer is greater than the thickness d2 of the second alignment layer. |
| US08634046B2 |
Optical element having an alignment layer for an optical anisotropic body
An optical element having an alignment layer for an optical anisotropic body, in which the generation of damages in the alignment layer is effectively prevented by providing an optical element having an alignment layer for an optical anisotropic body, wherein a stress releasing layer is formed as an underlying layer for the alignment layer. |
| US08634045B2 |
Liquid crystal panel substrate with light-shielding film in a pixel region, liquid crystal panel, and electronic equipment and projection type display device both using the same to reduce light leakage
A reflective-electrode-side substrate of a reflective-type liquid crystal panel substrate has a pixel region including a pixel electrode, reflecting part, a light shielding film, and a switching element. A periphery region in the periphery of the pixel region outside of the pixel region includes a driving circuit that includes at least one switching element, and a wiring layer that is electrically connected to the at least one switching element. The switching elements may consist of transistors. This configuration can reduce the amount of light leaking through spaces between pixel electrodes and prevent adverse effects on image quality. |
| US08634044B2 |
Display device and manufacturing method thereof
In a semi-transmission liquid crystal display device, two resist masks are required to form a reflective electrode and a transparent electrode; therefore, cost is high. A transparent electrode and a reflective electrode which function as a pixel electrode are stacked. A resist pattern which includes a region having a thick film thickness and a region having a thinner film thickness than the aforementioned region is formed over the reflective electrode by using a light exposure mask which includes a semi-transmission portion. The reflective electrode and the transparent electrode are formed by using the resist pattern. Therefore, the reflective electrode and the transparent electrode can be formed by using one resist mask. |
| US08634041B2 |
Liquid crystal display device and manufacturing method of liquid crystal display device
To sophisticate a portable electronic appliance without hindering reduction of the weight and the size, more specifically, to sophisticate a liquid crystal display apparatus installed in a portable electronic appliance without hindering the mechanical strength, a liquid crystal display apparatus includes a first plastic substrate, a light-emitting device which is disposed over the first plastic substrate, resin which covers the light-emitting device, an insulating film which is in contact with the resin, a semiconductor device which is in contact with the insulating film, a liquid crystal cell which is electrically connected to the semiconductor device, and a second plastic substrate, wherein the semiconductor device and the liquid crystal cell are disposed between the first plastic substrate and the second plastic substrate. |
| US08634034B2 |
Stereoscopic image display and alignment method thereof
A stereoscopic image display device includes a display panel; a plurality of display alignment marks disposed along a first edge and a second edge of the display panel, respectively, the first edge being opposite to the second edge, wherein two of the plurality of display alignment marks are disposed at a midpoint along opposite side edges of the display panel; a 3D filter disposed in planar relation to the display panel; and a plurality of filter alignment indicia portions disposed on the 3D filter. |
| US08634028B2 |
Method and apparatus for DC restoration using feedback
A feedback circuit for restoration of DC in electrical signals is presented. A sample pulse representing a DC portion of an electrical signal is generated. The sample pulse triggers a sample and hold circuit to acquire the correct offset voltage in the electrical signal during this DC portion. The offset voltage feeds back through a summing node to the electrical signal thereby restoring the video signal to the desired DC voltage level with respect to ground. |
| US08634022B2 |
Portable telephone equipped with camera
The present invention provides a portable telephone with camera having a camera 7 mounted as opposed to a camera window 22 provided on a casing. The casing is provided with an auxiliary light window 23 adjacent to the camera window 22. Arranged in the rear of the auxiliary light window 23 is an auxiliary light source 8 for emitting light in photographing with the camera 7. The camera window 22 is covered with a main optical cover 4. The auxiliary light window 23 is covered with an auxiliary optical cover 5. A light-shield surface 52 is formed between the main optical cover 4 and the auxiliary optical cover 5. Consequently the degradation of picture quality when the camera 7 and the auxiliary light source 8 are arranged close to each other is prevented. |
| US08634020B2 |
Structured light projection and acquisition
A structured light pattern is projected onto a scene using pulses of light emitted by light emitting diodes (LEDs) of the projector, wherein during the pulses of the LEDs, the LEDs are driven at an overdrive current when the LEDS are ON. A sensor of a camera only integrates light from the scene during the pulses to acquire images of the scene. |
| US08634019B2 |
Image processing apparatus and image processing method
An image processing apparatus includes a distribution detection unit configured to detect whether a luminance distribution on the screen changes to a hill-shaped form, based on a result of adding photometric values of each of divided photometry areas by rows and by columns, a difference calculation unit configured to calculate a luminance value difference between one portion of the screen and the peripheral portion thereof, a ratio calculating unit configured to calculate a ratio of pixels having a luminance value higher than or equal to a threshold value in the one portion, and a spotlight determination unit configured to determine whether a scene of the captured image is a spotlight scene according to a detection result of the distribution detection unit, calculation result of the difference calculation unit, and a calculation result of the ratio calculation unit. |
| US08634018B2 |
Image pickup apparatus and control method thereof
An exemplary aspect of the invention is an image pickup apparatus including a sensor unit including a plurality of pixels; an exposure control unit that controls exposure by a feedback control based on image data acquired by the sensor unit; and a display unit that displays an image having undergone exposure control. During a time period from a point immediately after activation of the image pickup apparatus until a point when an image is displayed on the display unit, the sensor unit executes temporary loading of a part of the image data, and the exposure control unit sets an optimum exposure value based on the image data temporarily loaded. |
| US08634016B2 |
Imaging device and main photographic subject recognition method
When a contrast-system multipoint ranging is performed to detect a main photographic subject in a screen based on a ranging result, a focus area is set at a screen center to perform continuous AF. When focusing is attained or almost attained in the continuous AF, the multipoint ranging is executed, and the main photographic subject in the screen is detected based on the ranging result. In this way, change in an angle of view can be prevented, and the main photographic subject can be accurately recognized. |
| US08634015B2 |
Image capturing apparatus and method and program for controlling same
An image capturing apparatus includes an image sensor provided in the neighborhood of an image plane of a photographing optical system for forming the image of a subject; pupil dividing member for forming images of a pair of light beams that have passed through different pupil regions of the photographing optical system; focus detection sensors arranged two-dimensionally for photoelectrically converting images of the pupil dividing member; and a correlation calculation unit which, in order to obtain one focus measurement value from one pair of two-dimensional images generated by the focus detection sensors and extending in the pupil dividing direction of the pupil dividing member and in a direction perpendicular to the pupil dividing direction, calculates the correlation between the pair of two-dimensional images while shifting the pair of two-dimensional images in the pupil dividing direction. |
| US08634014B2 |
Imaging device analysis systems and imaging device analysis methods
Imaging device analysis systems and imaging device analysis methods are described. According to one embodiment, an imaging device analysis system includes a light source configured to output light for use in analyzing at least one imaging component of an imaging device, wherein the imaging device is configured to generate images responsive to received light, and processing circuitry coupled with the light source and configured to control the light source to optically communicate the light to the imaging device, wherein the processing circuitry is further configured to access image data generated by the imaging device responsive to the reception, by the imaging device, of the light from the light source and to process the image data to analyze an operational status of the at least one imaging component. |
| US08634012B2 |
Solid-state image pickup device and method of driving the same
Provided is a solid-state image pickup device that includes: a pixel portion having a plurality of pixels that are arranged in a two-dimensional array and generate pixel signals; a readout row counter that generates row addresses for reading the pixel portion; a first reset row counter that generates a row address for resetting a first field of the pixel portion; a second reset row counter that generates a row address for resetting a second field of the pixel portion; a selector that selects one of the row addresses generated by the readout row counter, the first reset row counter, and the second reset row counter; and pixel driving units that respectively select two rows: an odd-numbered row and a neighboring even-numbered row of the pixel portion corresponding to the selected row address. |
| US08634006B2 |
Image sensor and a configuration for improved skew time
A method of providing a signal to a plurality of signal destinations configured in a planar array, the method comprising: electrically connecting all the signal destinations with at least one conducting element; and providing the signal substantially simultaneously to signal destinations substantially along the perimeter of the planar array and along diagonals of a rectangle. |
| US08634005B2 |
Very small pixel pitch focal plane array and method for manufacturing thereof
A method for manufacturing an imaging device is provided. The method comprises forming a contact pad over a semiconductor substrate. The contact pad has a malleable metal. The method further comprises providing a readout circuit having a first side and a contact plug. The contact plug has a base affixed to the first side of the readout circuit and a plurality of prongs extending from the base away from the first side. The first side of the readout circuit is moved towards the substrate so that the prongs of the contact plug are pressed into the pad and displace a portion of the pad into a space defined by and between a first and a second of the prongs. Stop elements formed over the substrate are aligned with and contact stop elements provided on the readout circuit so that the prongs are inhibited from passing completely through the contact pad. |
| US08634002B2 |
Image processing device and method for image correction
An image processing device includes an input unit which inputs image data that is generated by an imaging element including specific pixels, first image generation pixels that are the image generation pixels adjacent to the specific pixels, and second image generation pixels that are the image generation pixels not adjacent to the specific pixels, and includes a luminance value generated by each of the pixels, and a color mixture correction unit which corrects color mixture such that a change value of luminance caused by light leaked from the specific pixels to the first image generation pixels is calculated based on luminance values of each of specific pixels adjacent to the first image generation pixels and correction of color mixture to the first image generation pixels caused by the leaked light is performed. |
| US08633999B2 |
Methods and apparatuses for foreground, top-of-the-head separation from background
Foreground and background regions of a digital image of a scene are distinguished from each other automatically. Foreground objects are identified in a binary image map that distinguishes between foreground pixels and background pixels. From the foreground objects, a primary foreground object is identified. Within the identified primary foreground object, a head region of the primary foreground object is located. Within the head region, patterns of foreground pixels and background pixels that are indicative of a head crown region are identified. Within the head crown region, pixels identified as background pixels that actually show portions of the primary foreground object are converted to foreground pixels, thus improving the accuracy of the binary image map. |
| US08633997B2 |
Block-based variational image processing method
Block-based variational image processing provides improved image processing by utilizing portions of an image rather than the entire image. The image is divided into multiple smaller portions, and then iterations to determine a partial differential equation for an image processing application are performed on the smaller portions. After performing the iterations on a portion, the resulting information is able to be stored in an external memory. This results in a much lower bandwidth requirement for the data, enabling the method to be performed in hardware. Additionally, the block-based variational image processing utilizes only a small number of neighboring pixels for each iteration. |
| US08633996B2 |
Image sensor having nonlinear response
In previously known imaging devices as in still and motion cameras, for example, image sensor signal response typically is linear as a function of intensity of incident light. Desirably, however, akin to the response of the human eye, response is sought to be nonlinear and, more particularly, essentially logarithmic. Preferred nonlinearity is realized in image sensor devices of the invention upon severely limiting the number of pixel states, combined with clustering of pixels into what may be termed as super-pixels. |
| US08633991B2 |
Image stabilization of compact imaging device
The subject matter disclosed herein relates to an imaging device having a small form factor. |
| US08633990B2 |
Imaging apparatus, method of controlling the same, and program
An imaging apparatus includes a communication unit that executes data communication with a predetermined number of external devices, a search unit that searches for external devices that can executes data communication with the imaging apparatus, and a determination unit that, if the search unit finds a number of external devices that is greater than the predetermined number, determines with which of the external devices communication is to be activated. The determining unit is configured to, in case that the imaging unit executes an imaging process, preferentially activate communication with external devices that are used in the imaging process. |
| US08633986B1 |
Methods and systems for acquiring specifications for remotely controlling electronics
A computer-implemented method of controlling electronics is performed at an apparatus that includes one or more processors, a camera, and a transmitter. In the method, the camera acquires a first image of one or more electronic devices configured for remote control. A database is queried for information regarding the one or more electronic devices, based on the first image. In response to querying the database, the information regarding the one or more electronic devices is received. This information includes specifications for communicating with the one or more electronic devices. User input is received corresponding to a command for a respective electronic device of the one or more electronic devices. In response to the user input, an instruction corresponding to the command is transmitted to the respective electronic device via a signal generated by the transmitter in accordance with the specifications for communicating with the respective electronic device. |
| US08633984B2 |
Process of sequentially dubbing a camera for investigation and review
A system for and a method of creating a coherent video data stream of an object moving between a plurality of areas covered by a plurality of data collecting devices is provided. The method includes selecting a plurality of data collecting devices from the plurality of data collecting devices, synchronizing video data streams from the selected plurality of data collecting devices, substantially simultaneously reviewing the video data streams from the selected plurality of data collecting devices, specifying periods of interest for the video data streams from the selected plurality of data collecting devices, and sequentially combining portions of the video data streams into the coherent video data stream, the portions corresponding to the specified periods of interest. |
| US08633981B2 |
Wireless controlled pet toy dispenser with camera
A wirelessly controlled pet toy dispenser with camera provides a user opportunity to view the user's pet from a remote location and to select a pet toy for dispensing and to select the timing of dispensing. A pet toy main housing has a plurality of compartments to hold pet toys for subsequent dispensing, each compartment having a first pet toy holding state, and having a second pet toy dispensing state; a movement mechanism connected to each of the compartments to independently move each compartment on separate command signals from the first position to the second position to dispense pet toy; controller for receiving wireless signals, including a unique signal for each of the compartments to activate the movement mechanism; camera connected to the main housing; camera transmission mechanism for wirelessly transmitting a camera picture to a remote user; a remote user transmitter and receiver, keyed to the control mechanism to permit a remote user to select a compartment and activate pet toy release at will, the receiver including camera picture screen keyed to the pet camera. In some embodiments, there is a display screen, near the pet toy main housing for a pet to see the user. |
| US08633978B2 |
Human face detection and tracking device
A human face detection device includes a photosensitive element, a human face detection unit, and a skin color threshold generation unit. The photosensitive element is used for capturing a first image containing a first human face block. The human face detection unit compares the first image with at least one human face feature, so as to detect the first human face block. The skin color threshold generation unit is used for updating a skin color threshold value according to the detected first human face block. The skin color threshold value is used for filtering the first image signal to obtain a candidate region, the human face detection unit compares the candidate region with the at least one human face feature to obtain the first human face block, and the skin color threshold value determines whether the first human face block detected by the human face detection unit is correct. |
| US08633964B1 |
Generating video from panoramic images using transition trees
Methods and systems for generating video from panoramic images using transition trees are provided. According to an embodiment, a method for generating a video from panoramic images may include receiving a transition tree corresponding to a current panoramic image from a server. The method may also include determining a path of the transition tree to a next panoramic image based on a user navigation request. The method may further include requesting and receiving a video chunk from the server for each edge of the determined path of the transition tree. The method may also include displaying the requested video chunks in sequence according to the transition tree. According to another embodiment, a system for generating a video from panoramic images may include a transition tree module and a video display module. |
| US08633962B2 |
Video decoder which processes multiple video streams
In some embodiments, a spatially multiplexed output decoder may spatially multiplex video packets received in a time multiplexed video stream. A video stream with video packets from two or more sources may be received along with metadata. In some embodiments, a decoder may organize the video packets into respective buffers (e.g., each buffer including video packets for a respective video image). The spatially multiplexed output decoder may spatially multiplex the video images (which are made up of data from the respective video packets) into a video frame to be outputted (e.g., to a separate buffer). The video images in the video frame may then be demultiplexed in other parts of the system (e.g., in a virtual decoder) using information provided about the video frame (e.g., in metadata formed with the video frame). |
| US08633961B2 |
Mobile terminal and method of providing video calls using the same
A mobile terminal and a method of providing a video call using the same are disclosed. More particularly, a mobile terminal capable of supporting a video call while ensuring user's privacy by mounting a three-dimensional depth camera and a two-dimensional camera in the mobile terminal and a method of providing a video call using the same are disclosed. The mobile terminal of the present invention includes a 2D camera 200 capturing a 2D video and a 3D depth camera 210 capturing a 3D depth video; an individual image separation module 112 extracting boundary information between a user and a background by using depth information regarding a video captured by the 3D depth camera 210; a composite video generation module 114 separating the user video from the video captured by the 2D camera 200 by using the extracted boundary information and composing the separated user video and the set background video. |
| US08633960B2 |
Communication device for processing person associated pictures and video streams
A communication device (1, 1′, 1″) with at least one wireless communication channel is configured to receive digital pictures and/or video streams from at least one remote source. The communication device (1, 1′, 1″) is configured to test whether at least one person who is/are associated with said communication device by pre-stored person identification data is identifiable in the digital pictures and/or video streams of the remote source, and to process the digital pictures and/or video streams of the remote source only if the result of the person identification test is positive. |
| US08633959B2 |
Video telephony apparatus and signal transmitting/receiving method for mobile terminal
A video telephony apparatus and signal transmitting/receiving method for a mobile terminal are disclosed. The video telephony apparatus includes: a radio frequency unit for establishing a video call connection; an audio processor for collecting and reproducing an audio signal including a voice signal; a caption generator for converting the voice signal into a text caption signal; a camera module for photographing target objects to generate an image signal carrying photographed images; a video processor for combining the text caption signal and image signal into a video signal; a display unit for displaying visual image data; and a control unit for controlling the radio frequency unit to transmit the video signal. As a result, text captions corresponding to a voice signal can enhance the conversations during a mobile video telephony service. |
| US08633958B2 |
Image processing method, and image processor
The present invention provides an image processing method which includes at least any one of image recording and image erasing, wherein a light irradiation intensity at a center position of the laser beam irradiated in the image recording is controlled; in the image recording, a first auxiliary line extended by a predetermined distance from a start point of each of image lines constituting an image in the opposite direction from the scanning direction and a second auxiliary line extended by a predetermined distance from an end point of each of the image lines in the scanning direction are prepared, and when the first and second auxiliary lines including an image line are continuously scanned, the image line is scanned with irradiating the laser beam, and the first and the second auxiliary lines are scanned without irradiating the laser beam to thereby record the image. |
| US08633952B2 |
Gamut mapping and subpixel rendering systems and methods
In a first embodiment, a display system comprises a display panel with 4 or more colored subpixels. The display system receives input image data specified in a first color space and outputs image data specified in a second color space. The display system further comprises a gamut mapping module for mapping the input image data specified in the first color space to image data specified in the second color space. The gamut mapping module clamps out-of-gamut colors using at least a first clamping system and a second clamping system. The first and second clamping systems yield first and second clamped values. A weighting module produces a resulting clamped value from the first and second clamped values. A final output image value is derived from the resulting clamped value. Other embodiments of the display system include pre-reduction modules and adjustable GMA modules. |
| US08633948B2 |
Single-pass and order-independent transparency in computer graphics using constant memory
A single-pass, order-independent method in support of rendering transparency effects into a computer generated image is provided. A geometric primitive of a scene is rasterized so as to convert the geometric primitive into a set of pixels. For at least each pixel or subpixel, a stipple pattern is selected from a set of unique stipple patterns. The set of unique stipple patterns is characterized by a select opacity value with the stipple pattern delimiting a unique set of pixels in the computer generated image which contributes to a visible surface determination. |
| US08633947B2 |
Computer-readable storage medium having stored therein information processing program, information processing apparatus, information processing system, and information processing method
An information processing section of a game apparatus executes a program including: a step of obtaining an image captured by an outer camera; a step of calculating, when detection of a marker is completed, a position and an orientation of a virtual camera based on a result of the marker detection; a step of obtaining hand-drawn data; a step of capturing, with the virtual camera, a fundamental polygon to which a texture is applied to generate a hand-drawn image, and displaying, on an upper LCD, an image in which the hand-drawn image is superimposed on the camera image; and a step of displaying a hand-drawn input image on a lower LCD. |
| US08633946B2 |
Interactivity with a mixed reality
Methods of interacting with a mixed reality are presented. A mobile device captures an image of a real-world object where the image has content information that can be used to control a mixed reality object through an offered command set. The mixed reality object can be real, virtual, or a mixture of both real and virtual. |
| US08633941B2 |
Image-processing apparatus, method for controlling thereof, and computer program
An image-processing apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a determining unit determining a type of image data; a holding unit holding color value for the still images, and holding a ratio for the moving image for each moving image, an updating unit updating the color value and the ratio, and a display unit displaying composite image data. For each piece of image data to be drawn, the updating unit updates each ratio based on a transmittance of the image data, updates the color value and a transmittance of a still image when it is a still image, and updates the color value data based on a transmittance of a moving image, and causes the transmittance to be further held as a ratio of the moving image when it is a moving image. The display unit displays the composite image data using the color value and the ratio. |
| US08633939B2 |
System and method for painting 3D models with 2D painting tools
An 2D layer containing texture coordinate information is inserted into a layered image snapshot of a 3D scene perspective. The layered image snapshot can be painted using 2D painting techniques and then imported back into the 3D scene by using the texture coordinate information to map modified pixels back into the 3D scene. |
| US08633937B2 |
Information processing apparatus and information processing method
A memory section provides an input buffer capable of holding image data being a processing target of each processing by an image processing unit, and an output buffer capable of holding image data being a processing result. Through an input section, a user selects a plurality of kinds of processing to be executed by the image processing unit, and an execution sequence of the plurality of kinds of processing. A controller section reserves, based on information selected by a user through the input section, an input buffer and an output buffer for each processing in the memory section, sets an input-output connection relation between the buffers, and notifies, based on the set connection relation, the image processing unit of address information of the input buffer in the memory section and the output buffer for each processing sequentially executed by the image processing unit. |
| US08633929B2 |
System and method of rendering interior surfaces of 3D volumes to be viewed from an external viewpoint
System and methods for rendering interior surfaces of a 3D volumetric object to be viewed from an external viewpoint. Image data sets being representative of a 3D volumetric object are processed to render image surfaces of the 3D volumetric object. The rendered image surfaces are transformed to allow viewing of internal surfaces of the 3D volumetric object from the perspective of the external viewpoint. The transformations involve inverting at least one of a normal vector, a winding order, and a z-order of a plurality of polygon members making up the rendered image surfaces. The transformations may further involve modifying a transparency parameter of a subset of the plurality of polygon members. |
| US08633928B2 |
Reducing the bandwidth of sampler loads in shaders
Bandwidth may be conserved in messages transferred between a shader and a sampler by converting loads in array of structures format to structure of arrays format. More particularly, four four channel loads in array of structures format may be combined into a single eight channel message in structure of arrays format. Then, the eight channel message in structure of arrays format may be converted back to array of structures format. |
| US08633926B2 |
Mesoscopic geometry modulation
Techniques are provided for mesoscopic geometry modulation. A first set of mesoscopic details associated with an object is determined by applying a filter to an image of an object. Mesoscopic details included in the first set of mesoscopic details are detectable in the image of the object and are not detectable when generating a coarse geometry reconstruction of the object. A three-dimensional model for the object is generated by modulating the coarse geometry with the first set of mesoscopic details. |
| US08633924B2 |
Volumetric data exploration using multi-point input controls
A three-dimensional data set is accessed. A two-dimensional plane is defined that intersects a space defined by the three-dimensional data set. The two-dimensional plane defines a two-dimensional data set within the three-dimensional data set and divides the three-dimensional data set into first and second subsets. A three-dimensional view based on the three-dimensional data set is rendered on such that at least a portion of the first subset of the three-dimensional data set is removed and at least a portion of the two-dimensional data set is displayed. A two-dimensional view of a first subset of the two-dimensional data set also is rendered. Controls are provided that enable visual navigation through the three-dimensional data set by engaging points on the multi-touch display device that correspond to either the three-dimensional view based on the three-dimensional data set and/or the two-dimensional view of the first subset of the two-dimensional data set. |
| US08633923B2 |
Boost converter using frequency-varying oscillation signal for liquid crystal display
In order that a boost converter of an LDI can reduce electromagnetic interference by generating a panel driving voltage through the use of a variable frequency, while achieving a stable boosting operation using the same frequency whenever each frame begins, an oscillator generates an oscillation signal having a frequency, which varies in a predetermined pattern or hops in a random pattern around a center frequency, and generates an oscillation signal having a preset fixed frequency whenever each frame begins. |
| US08633920B2 |
Display device and display drive method
A display device includes: a pixel array including pixel circuits arranged in a matrix state, in which each pixel circuit has a light emitting element, a drive transistor, and a storage capacitor storing a threshold voltage of the drive transistor and an inputted signal value; a threshold correction operation means for performing a threshold correction operation plural times, which allows the storage capacitor to store the threshold voltage of the drive transistor by supplying a drive voltage to the drive transistor in a state in which a gate potential of the drive transistor is in a reference value before giving the signal value to the storage capacitor; and a cut-off control means for cutting off the drive transistor by supplying an intermediate voltage which is lower than the drive voltage to the drive transistor in a after-correction period which is the period after the period of the threshold correction operation. |
| US08633912B2 |
Method for making touch panel
The present disclosure provides a method for making touch panel. An array of carbon nanotubes, a substrate, and at least two electrodes are provided. The array of carbon nanotubes is pressed via a pressing device. A carbon nanotube structure is formed on a first surface of the substrate. The at least two electrodes and the carbon nanotube structure are electrically connected and a touch panel is formed. |
| US08633911B2 |
Force sensing input device and method for determining force information
The embodiments described herein provide devices, systems and methods that facilitate improved performance in an input device. The input device, for example, may include an input surface configured to rotate about a first axis, a proximity sensor configured to sense an input object in a sensing region proximate to the input surface of the input device, a force sensor configured to sense a force applied to the input surface of the input device, and a processing system communicatively coupled to the proximity sensor and the force sensor. The processing system may be configured to determine a position of the input object in the sensing region, and determine force information for the input object based upon the position of the input object, the force applied to the input surface, and a location of the force sensor relative to the first axis. |
| US08633910B2 |
Information processing device, opening/closing angle detecting method, and opening/closing angle detecting program
An information processing device includes two casings that are openably/closably coupled to each other, a detection unit that is provided on at least one of the two casings and is configured to detect one of contact and proximity of an operation input with respect to an operation surface, and a control unit configured to extract a variation component, which varies along with proximity of the two casings in opening/closing of the two casings, based on a detection result, which is detected by the detection unit, and detect an opening/closing angle of the two casings based on the variation component. |
| US08633904B2 |
Touch identification for multi-touch technology
A method of operating a touch-sensing surface may include determining a first plurality of contact locations including a first contact location, determining a second plurality of contact locations including a second contact location, performing a first correlation process for correlating the second contact location with the first contact location when the number of contacts is less than or equal to a first threshold number, and performing a second correlation process for correlating the second contact location with the first contact location when the number of contacts is greater than a second threshold number. |
| US08633901B2 |
Handheld electronic device having a touchscreen and a method of using a touchscreen of a handheld electronic device
A handheld electronic device having a touchscreen and a method of using a touchscreen of a handheld electronic device are provided. In accordance with one embodiment, there is provided a method of controlling a handheld electronic device having a touchscreen display, comprising: determining a location of a touch input on a touch-sensitive input surface of the touchscreen display; determining one or more characteristics of a motion signal of a motion sensor of the handheld electronic device; and generating an input from one of at least two inputs associated with the location of the touch input in accordance with the characteristics of the motion signal. |
| US08633898B2 |
Sensor arrangement for use with a touch sensor that identifies hand parts
Apparatus and methods are disclosed for simultaneously tracking multiple finger and palm contacts as hands approach, touch, and slide across a proximity-sensing, multi-touch surface. Identification and classification of intuitive hand configurations and motions enables unprecedented integration of typing, resting, pointing, scrolling, 3D manipulation, and handwriting into a versatile, ergonomic computer input device. |
| US08633896B2 |
Communication device
According to embodiments described in the specification, a method and apparatus for controlling the display of a mobile electronic device are provided. The mobile electronic device comprises a display; a memory for storing a first application, a first identifier identifying the first application and a second identifier for identifying a second application; and, a processor interconnected with the display and the memory, the processor configured to control the display to generate a launch interface comprising a representation of the second identifier for launching the first application. |
| US08633895B2 |
Apparatus and method for improving character input function in mobile terminal
A character input mode of a mobile terminal permits easier viewing of characters being entered on a virtual keyboard. An apparatus and a method permitting detection of misprinted/omitted character when performing a special character input mode An output manager outputs a character input screen including a virtual keyboard region and a character input field region when entering a character input mode, and outputs an auxiliary character input field showing information of currently input data on the virtual keyboard region. A display unit outputs the auxiliary character input field, the character input field, and the virtual keyboard. When an input of the virtual keyboard is detected, the output manager outputs information of data corresponding to an input position on the character input field and the auxiliary character input field. The character input mode preferably includes a mode for inputting at least one of text data, symbol data, and emoticon data. |
| US08633889B2 |
Display device, driving method thereof, and electronic appliance
A driving method of a display device comprising a display area including a plurality of pixels arranged in a matrix, comprising a first step and a second step. In the first step, a first signal is input to each of the plurality of pixels and a first image is displayed on the display area. In the second step, a second signal is input to each of the plurality of pixels; an afterimage that appears on the display area in the first step is erased; a second image is displayed on the display area. The second step is performed after the first step. |
| US08633886B2 |
Display panel having crossover connections effecting dot inversion
A display is disclosed having crossover connections effecting polarity inversion. The display includes a panel comprising a subpixel repeating group having an even number of repeating subpixels in a first direction. The display also includes a driver circuit coupled to the panel to provide image data signals effecting polarity inversion to the panel. The display also includes a plurality of crossover connections from the driver circuit to the columns of the panel such that polarities of same color subpixels in the first direction alternate at a spatial frequency sufficient to abate undesirable visual effects on the panel when an image is displayed thereon; each crossover connection applying the same polarity to each subpixel in the column. |
| US08633883B2 |
Liquid crystal display
The exemplary embodiment relates to a liquid crystal display device. The liquid crystal display panel according to the exemplary embodiment includes: a liquid crystal display panel on which a plurality of data lines cross a plurality of gate lines; a source drive IC that supplies data voltages to the data lines; a gate drive IC that supplies gate pulses to the gate lines; a system board equipped with a scaler that transmits data from the scaler with a first interface specification; an interface board that receives the data according to the first interface specification, and transmitting the data with a second interface specification; and a control board equipped with a timing controller receiving the data in the second interface specification and supplying the data to the source drive IC, and controlling the operating timing of the source drive IC and the gate drive IC; wherein a number of the data transmitting lines required in the second interface specification is less than a number of data transmitting line required in the first interface specification. |
| US08633882B2 |
Liquid crystal display device with influences of offset voltages reduced
A semiconductor integrated circuit including a first register which latches display data, a second register which latches the display data of the first register in accordance with a first clock, a gray scale voltage generator which outputs a plurality of gray scale voltages, a decoder which selects a gray scale voltage in accordance with the display data of the second register from the plurality of gray scale voltages, and an amplifier including a first transistor and a second transistor. A first terminal of the first transistor and a first terminal of the second transistor are connected to a first voltage line, and the gray scale voltage outputted from the decoder is supplied to one of input terminals of the first transistor and the second transistor in accordance with a control signal. A phase of the control signal is reversed at intervals of two horizontal scanning lines. |
| US08633881B2 |
Display apparatus and driving device for displaying
Display driving arrangements including: generation circuit dividing a reference voltage by variable resistors for plural levels of voltages; a decoder circuit decoding gray scale voltage corresponding to the display data among the levels of voltages; and a register setting variable resisters resistance values to adjust amplitude and gradient of the gamma characteristic curve of the gray scale voltages with respect to the gray scale number, the generation circuit having a group of resistive voltage dividing circuits dividing the reference voltage, a variable resister amplitude adjusting the gamma characteristic curve in accordance with register setting values connected with a side of the reference voltage in series, being closer to the side of the reference voltage than the group of resistive voltage dividing circuits, a variable resister to adjust the gradient of the gamma characteristic curve per the register setting values connected within the group of resistive voltage dividing circuits in series. |
| US08633879B2 |
Undulating electrodes for improved viewing angle and color shift
The present disclosure generally provides for a variety of multi-domain pixel configurations that may be implemented in the unit pixels of an LCD display device, such as a fringe field switching LCD display panel. An LCD display device utilizing one or more of the presently disclosed techniques disclosed herein may exhibit improved display properties, such as viewing angle, color shift, and transmittance properties, relative to those exhibited by conventional multi-domain designs. |
| US08633875B2 |
Electroluminescent display panel and electronic apparatus
An electroluminescent display panel has pixel circuits for an active matrix driving system. At least one of the pixel circuits has a thin-film transistor in which a portion of a pattern of a metal wiring material above a channel layer of the thin-film transistor is disposed to shield the channel region of the thin-film transistor. |
| US08633873B2 |
Stable fast programming scheme for displays
A technique for improving the spatial and/or temporal uniformity of a light-emitting display by providing a faster calibration of reference current sources and reducing the noise effect by improving the dynamic range, despite instability and non-uniformity of the transistor devices. A calibration circuit for a display panel having an active area having a plurality of light emitting devices arranged on a substrate, and a peripheral area of the display panel separate from the active area is provided. The calibration circuit includes a first row of calibration current source or sink circuits and a second row of calibration current source or sink circuits. A first calibration control line is configured to cause the first row of calibration current source or sink circuits to calibrate the display panel with a bias current while the second row of calibration current source or sink circuits is being calibrated by a reference current. A second calibration control line is configured to cause the second row of calibration current source or sink circuits to calibrate the display panel with the bias current while the first row of calibration current source or sink circuits is being calibrated by the reference current. |
| US08633871B2 |
Image processing apparatus and image processing method
If an image acquired from a video camera (113) contains a two-dimensional bar code as information unique to an operation input device (116), information unique to the video camera (113) and the information unique to the operation input device (116) are managed in a shared memory (107) in association with each other. |
| US08633866B2 |
Frequency-selective surface (FSS) structures
Frequency-selective surface (FSS) structures that may be used in a variety of different filtering capacities and applications. According to exemplary embodiments, there is disclosed: 1) a one-sided FSS structure that has a conductive grid and conductive loops located on the same side of a thin substrate and exhibits a single pole frequency response; 2) a multiple layer FSS structure that has several one-sided FSS layers and exhibits a multiple pole frequency response; 3) a loop/loop tunable FSS structure where the frequency response can be adjusted or tuned with a bias network; 4) a grid/grid tunable FSS structure where the frequency response can be adjusted or tuned without the use of bias network; and 5) an antenna arrangement that has a FSS structure placed over top of antenna array so that the need for separate components, like bulky filters in a transceiver chain, can be eliminated. |
| US08633860B2 |
Dual feed antenna
The subject disclosure may include, for example, a multi-port antenna structure including an antenna having a first antenna port to transmit electromagnetic signals and a second antenna port to receive electromagnetic signals, where the antenna is coupled to a housing assembly of a communication device to transmit energy between the housing assembly and the first antenna port and second antenna port, and where first resonant modes of the housing assembly for the first antenna port and second resonant modes of the housing assembly for the second antenna port are such that the first and second antenna ports are substantially isolated from each other. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
| US08633859B2 |
Antenna module
An antenna module includes a support and an antenna. The support includes an upper surface and has a through hole defined in a middle of the upper surface. The antenna includes a feed unit, a first radiator unit, and a second radiator unit. One end of the feed unit is positioned on the upper surface. The other end of the feed unit passes through the through hole, and extends and attaches to a surface opposite to the upper surface. The first radiator unit and the second radiator unit are both connected to the end of the feed unit positioned on the upper surface, and both extend away from the feed unit. |
| US08633854B2 |
Short and ultra-short baseline phase maps
A system for generating and utilizing a look-up mechanism consisting of one or more phase difference error maps, tables and/or mathematical models calculates the respective maps, tables and/or models by placing a short baseline or ultra-short baseline antenna array in a known location and known orientation, determining angles of incidence of incoming GNSS satellite signals with respect the antenna array and calculating expected carrier phase differences between respective pairs of antennas, calculating measured carrier phase differences between the respective pairs of antennas, and determining carrier phase difference errors using the expected and measured carrier phase differences. The carrier phase difference errors are then recorded in the look-up mechanism, with the maps and, as appropriate, look-up tables for the respective pairs of antennas being indexed by angles of incidence. Thereafter, the system utilizes the look-up mechanism when determining the unknown orientation of the antenna structure. For respective pairs of antennas, the system enters the look-up mechanism based on angles of incidence determined from a calculated orientation, and uses the retrieved values in the calculation of a corrected orientation, to compensate for phase distortion. |
| US08633850B2 |
Identifying a location of a target object using a monopulse radar system and space-time adaptive processing (STAP)
A method and apparatus for identifying locations of objects. A portion of a sum signal corresponding to angular locations and velocities with respect to a sensor system that are different from a selected angular location and a selected velocity with respect to the sensor system, respectively, is modified to form a set of modified sum signals. A portion of a difference signal corresponding to the angular locations and the velocities with respect to the sensor system that are different from the selected angular location and the selected velocity with respect to the sensor system, respectively, is modified to form a modified difference signal. An angular location of a target object is identified with respect to the sensor system using the set of modified sum signals and the modified difference signal. |
| US08633849B2 |
Radar device, object detection system, and object detection method
A vehicle mounted radar device operable to scan a transmission wave to detect a detection point representing a position of an object disposed around the vehicle on the basis of a reflected wave of the transmission wave from the object. The radar device includes a reading unit, a continuity determination unit, a setting unit, anti an object determination unit that are configured to prevent the radar device from erroneously determining different pieces of object information as a single object. |
| US08633848B2 |
Method of controlling a device arrangement
The invention describes a method of controlling a device arrangement (D), which method comprises generating at least one electrical signal (10, 11) in a remote control unit (2), converting the generated electrical signal (10, 11) into electromagnetic radiation (EM1, EM2) according to specific polarization parameters, and detecting the electromagnetic radiation (EM1, EM2) with a detecting arrangement (R1, R2). The detecting arrangement (R1, R2) is realized to detect electromagnetic radiation (EM1, EM2) with the specific polarization parameters to obtain an electrical signal (30, 31), which is converted into a device control signal (40, 41) and applied to a device (L1, L2, L3) of the device arrangement (D). The invention further describes a system (1) for controlling a device arrangement (D). The invention also describes a remote control interface module (3) and a remote control unit (2). |
| US08633846B2 |
Successive approximation register analog to digital converter
An apparatus implements analog-to-digital conversion with released requirement on the reference settling errors and improved immunity to the noise originated from the power supply, ground and the positive and negative references. It includes a comparator comparing the specified reference levels with the analog input, multi DAC sub-circuits with separate non-binary search schemes applied to and a digital control logic controlling the reference search process. No cross-talk occurs among the different non-binary search algorithms. Each redundancy scheme is localized in a respective DAC sub-circuit and covers the reference levels only in the current DAC. The non-binary search algorithms are fulfilled in the digital domain and trade the non-binary search step sizes with the number of the search steps to introduce redundancy to the reference levels. |
| US08633843B2 |
System and method for chopping oversampled data converters
In accordance with an embodiment, a circuit includes an analog chopping circuit having a first input coupled to a system input and a second input coupled to a first chopping signal, an oversampled data converter having an input coupled to an output of the analog chopping circuit, where the oversampled data converter is configured to produce an oversampled digital signal at an output of the oversampled data converter. The circuit further includes a digital filter having an input coupled to the output of the oversampled data converter, and a digital chopping circuit including a first input coupled to the output of the oversampled data converter, and a second input coupled to a second chopping signal. The digital filter is configured to filter quantization noise generated by the oversampled data converter. |
| US08633840B2 |
Sequence transition point determining method and apparatus thereof
A determining method and apparatus thereof for a transition point of a sequence which can be applied to a decoder. The determining method determines the transition point of the sequence having N numbers, wherein the sequence is composed of a first value and a second value and N is a positive integer. The determining method includes determining the position the first value appearing consecutively in the sequence to determine a first interval; determining the position the second value appearing consecutively in the sequence to determine a second interval; and determining the longer interval between the first interval and the second interval, when the first interval is longer, determining an adjacency of the first interval and the second value as the transition point according to the first interval, and when the second interval is longer, determining an adjacency of the second interval and the first value as the transition point. |
| US08633839B2 |
Data compression apparatus by a plurality of types of algorithms and a method
A size comparison unit reports, to an access control unit, the size of a piece of compressed data having the smallest size from among pieces of compressed data generated via compression processing units compressing blocks, an algorithm name representing a compression processing unit that has generated the piece of compressed data having the smallest size; the access control unit selects a piece of compressed data to be written in a tape medium and reports, to a statistical information processing unit, an algorithm name representing a compression processing unit that has generated this selected piece of compressed data; the statistical information processing unit extracts, from the reported algorithm name, a regularity present in a result of the selection of compressed data and, in accordance with this extracted regularity, specifies and stops a compression processing unit to be stopped. |
| US08633832B2 |
Obstacle detection apparatus for vehicle
In a vehicle obstacle detecting apparatus having a radar that transmits a laser beam in front of the vehicle to scan in different detection regions in a horizontal direction parallel to a road and receives reflection waves reflected from an object successively, it is determined whether a high reflection wave such as that reflected from delineator installed on the road at regular intervals exists in the received reflection waves in the detection regions, and if not, an obstacle such as a human being is detected from a low reflection wave. On the other hand, when the high reflection wave exists, the obstacle is detected from a second reflection wave. |
| US08633829B2 |
Camera security system
A camera security system for securely detecting, recording and alerting the authorities of an attempted intrusion into a safe or other secure storage device. The camera security system generally includes a secure storage device having a door, a combination lock for selectively opening the door of the secure storage device and a sensor for detecting the positioning and movement of the combination lock. A recording device and communications device are provided and adapted to activate upon movement of the combination lock from a preset position. The recording device will preferably be concealed within a dial grip of the combination lock. Upon activation, the recording device will begin recording audio and/or video of the intrusion and the communications device will transmit an alarm signal to emergency responders. |
| US08633827B2 |
Patient table system for medical system for medical applications and associated medical imaging device
A patient table system for medical applications is provided. The table system comprises: a table top; at least one sensor configured to measure information representative of a pressure exerted by a patient on the table top when the patient is in a lying position; and a safety detector configured to compare the measured information with reference data of the table top mechanical resistance and to provide an alert depending on the result of the comparison. |
| US08633826B2 |
Method and apparatus for managing battery pack
An apparatus for managing a battery pack for a vehicle includes a temperature measurement module for measuring temperature of the battery pack; a current measurement module for measuring a charge/discharge current of the battery pack when the measured temperature is not within a predetermined temperature range; a time measurement module for measuring the time while the measured charge/discharge current is over a predetermined current value; a storage module for accumulating and storing the measured time; and a control module for determining a state of the battery pack according to the accumulated and stored time and providing the state information to a user. |
| US08633819B2 |
System and method for asset tracking and monitoring
A multi-mode asset tracking and monitoring system and method is provided that enables comprehensive reporting of asset position, status, and alerts. In one embodiment, the multi-mode system and method is based on the addition of a local network monitoring system to a wide area satellite network monitoring system. In this example, the local network monitoring system would add container presence and status monitoring in crowded environments (e.g., within a port facility, on-board a ship, etc.), while the wide area satellite network monitoring system would provide tracking and monitoring coverage when the container is in dispersed environments. Both the local and wide area monitoring systems work together to provide end-to-end container tracking and monitoring to thereby ensure continuous container tracking and monitoring from container loading to container unloading. |
| US08633811B2 |
Driving assist apparatus
A driving assist apparatus includes: an image obtaining unit that obtains a peripheral image of a vehicle, which is captured by an image capturing device provided in the vehicle; a display device that is provided in the interior of the vehicle and displays the peripheral image; a display object generation unit that generates a display object including an index line serving as an index for assisting a driver who drives the vehicle; a vehicle state detection unit that detects at least one of behavior of the vehicle and a state of a driving operation; a display type determining unit that determines a transparent display type of the display object based on the detection result of the vehicle state detection unit; and a display control unit that superimposes and displays the display object on the peripheral image, which is displayed on the display device, based on the determined transparent display type. |
| US08633809B2 |
Electrode diversity for body-coupled communication systems
The present invention relates to coupler device, processing apparatus and method of processing a plurality of body-coupled communication signals which have been detected by using an electrode arrangement with a plurality of electrodes or electrode segments (40, 42; 40, 43). Respective transmission parameters of the body-coupled communication signals are estimated and at least one of a selecting and weighting processing is applied to the detected body-coupled communication signals based on the estimated transmission parameters. Then, the processed body-coupled communication signals are combined to generate a diversity output signal. Thereby, robustness against coupler misplacement and user convenience is increased in body-coupled or body-based communication systems. |
| US08633802B2 |
Programmable communicator
A programmable communicator device is disclosed having a wireless communications circuit, including an antenna, configured to receive a transmission, and an identity module having a unique identifier. The programmable communicator further includes a processing module including program code configured to determine if the transmission is from an authenticated caller by determining whether a received transmission contains the unique identifier, and memory configured to store telephone numbers or IP addresses received in transmissions from an authenticated caller. |
| US08633801B2 |
Battery authentication system, electronic device, battery, and battery charger
A battery authentication system according to the present invention includes a battery and an electronic device. The battery includes a battery authentication portion that includes battery identification information and performs authentication between the battery and the electronic device. The electronic device includes: a power source that supplies electric power from the battery to respective portions in the electronic device; a storage portion that stores the battery identification information of usable batteries; a device authentication portion that performs authentication of the battery; and a control portion that compares the battery identification information of the battery with the battery identification information stored in the storage portion. The control portion compares the battery identification information of the battery authenticated successfully in the device authentication portion with the battery identification information stored in the storage portion, and controls the power source based on a result of the comparison. According to the battery authentication system of the present invention, it is possible to recognize whether a battery mounted is authenticated or not, and accordingly to determine whether the battery can be used or not. Therefore, it is possible to permit the use of a genuine battery and a non-genuine battery and to eliminate a counterfeit battery. |
| US08633799B1 |
Lock with remotely activated lockout feature
A method for controlling access to a storage unit owned by an owner, wherein a renter has access to the storage unit unless the owner receives the legal right to deny the renter access to the storage unit and decides to do so. In this method, the storage unit is secured by a lock that is, at least in part, controlled by the renter. A remotely controllable lockout assembly, however, is capable of over locking the storage unit so that the renter can no longer gain entry when the lockout assembly is activated. The method includes remotely controlling the lockout assembly to deny the renter access to the unit when the owner receives the legal right to deny the renter access to the storage unit and decides to do so. |
| US08633795B2 |
Thermal fuse
The invention relates to a thermal fuse in a circuit structure, particularly a punched grid, having a plurality of circuit areas, having the circuit structure with connections sites (9) and having a fusible element (3), which is electrically and mechanically connected to the connection sites (9) of the circuit structure, a material of the fusible element (3) having a melting point, in order to melt at an ambient temperature greater than the melting point, such that material of the fusible element (3) collects at the connection sites (9) and the electrical connection formed by the fusible element (3) breaks. |
| US08633793B1 |
Common mode filter
The common mode filter of the instant disclosure includes a non-magnetic insulating substrate, a stacked-layer structure, an insulating layer, and a magnetic layer. The stacked-layer structure is arranged on the non-magnetic insulating substrate. The magnetic layer is covered on the stacked-layer structure by the insulating layer arranged therebetween. The stacked-layer structure comprises a first coil and second coil, wherein the first coil is coupled to the second coil to suppress the common mode noise. Specially, a width W (mm) and a length L (mm) of at least one coil in the first and second coils satisfy the relational expression of: [(14.1−fc)/6.5]2 |
| US08633792B2 |
Electronic device having a base part including a soft magnetic layer
An electronic device (1) is provided with at least a base part (2, 22, 32, 42) and an electronic module (3). The base part (2, 22, 32, 42) comprises a soft magnetic layer (5, 25, 35, 45) and at least a primary coil (7). The electronic module (3) comprises at least one electronic element and at least a secondary coil (8) adapted to inductively interact with the primary coil (7). The primary coil (7) is located in a hole (6) of the soft magnetic layer (5, 25, 35, 45). The electronic module (3) further comprises at least one magnet (9) adapted to magnetically interact with the soft magnetic layer (5, 25, 35, 45). |
| US08633791B2 |
Rotary solenoid
A rotary solenoid (1) includes a stator (10), a rotor (40), and a torsion spring (50) connected between the stator (10) and the rotor (40). The stator (10) includes an armature (13) having three stator poles (14, 15) cooperatively defining a substantially cylindrical space (18) and a coil (19) wound about one of the stator poles (14). The rotor (40) includes a shaft (42) rotatably assembled to the stator (10) and a rotor core (44) fixed to the shaft (42) and received in the cylindrical space (18). The rotor core (44) has three rotor poles (43) corresponding to the stator poles (14, 15). The rotor (40) stays at a first position under the force of the torsion spring (50) and rotates to a second position under the force of the torsion spring (50) and the magnetic force of stator (10) when the coil (19) is powered. |
| US08633790B2 |
Waveguide structure, antenna apparatus that uses that waveguide structure, and vehicle radar apparatus in which a waveguide structure or an antenna apparatus is used
A waveguide structure including (i) a base that has a mounting surface, (ii) a metal plate member that has elasticity, that is stacked on the mounting surface, and that functions together with the base to constitute a waveguide, (iii) a positioning mechanism that is constituted by a positioning pin that is disposed so as to protrude from the base and an interfitting portion that is formed on the plate member, and that is fitted together with the positioning pin, the positioning mechanism positioning the plate member on the mounting surface of the base and also restricting movement along the mounting surface by fitting together of the positioning pin and the interfitting portion, and (iv) a holder that holds the plate member in a state of close contact with the mounting surface by pressing the plate member so as to generate a reaction force in the plate member. |
| US08633783B2 |
Electromagnetic coupler and communication apparatus using the same
An electromagnetic coupler has a first conductor pattern and a second conductor pattern separated from the first conductor pattern that are formed in a first plane, a feeding pattern made of a conductor and being connected to a feeing system and a ground made of a conductor and being separated from the feeding pattern that are formed in a second plane, and linear conductors electrically connecting between the first conductor pattern and the feeding pattern, and between the second conductor pattern and the ground, respectively. |
| US08633781B2 |
Combined balun and impedance matching circuit
An apparatus for providing impedance matching between a single-ended circuit and a differential circuit includes first and second capacitors and first and second inductors. The first capacitor is connected between an input/output of the single-ended circuit and a first differential input/output of the differential circuit. The first inductor is connected between the input/output of the single-ended circuit and a second differential input/output of the differential circuit. The second capacitor is connected between the second differential input/output of the differential circuit and ground. The second inductor is connected between the first differential input/output of the differential circuit and the second differential input/output of the differential circuit. |
| US08633777B2 |
Methods and apparatus for inductors with integrated passive and active elements
An integrated circuit is described. The integrated circuit includes an inductor that has a large empty area in the center of the inductor. The integrated circuit also includes additional circuitry. The additional circuitry is located within the large empty area in the center of the inductor. The additional circuitry may include a capacitor bank, transistors, electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuitry and other miscellaneous passive or active circuits. |
| US08633776B2 |
System and method for effectively performing a clock signal distribution procedure
A system and method for effectively performing a clock signal distribution procedure includes a clock generator configured to generate one or more clock signals that include electronic timing information. A clock load utilizes the electronic timing information from the clock signals to synchronize appropriate system processes. Capacitive coupling means are provided in a series configuration for transferring the clock signals from the clock generator to the clock load in accordance with an alternating-current direct-drive technique. |
| US08633775B2 |
Method of manufacturing piezoelectric vibrator, piezoelectric vibrator, oscillator, electronic equipment and radio-controlled timepiece
Provided is a method of manufacturing a piezoelectric vibrator of the invention, the piezoelectric vibrator including a tuning fork type piezoelectric vibrating reed including a pair of vibration arm portions, a package that accommodates the piezoelectric vibrating reed, and a pair of regulation films that is formed along a longitudinal direction of the vibration arm portions corresponding to each of the pair of vibration arm portions, the piezoelectric vibrator being capable of regulating a degree of vacuum in the package more than a certain level by irradiating the regulation films with a laser to evaporate a part of the regulation films. The method includes a gettering process of irradiating a laser in symmetrical positions via a center axis of the pair of vibration arm portions in the pair of regulation films. |
| US08633771B2 |
Power amplifier
There is provided a power amplifier including an amplifying unit having at least two cascode amplifiers connected in parallel to amplify an input signal; and a bias supply unit supplying bias power to a common gate node of the two cascode amplifiers, and removing a signal of a pre-set frequency band corresponding to a baseband at the common gate node by controlling impedance of the common gate node. |
| US08633767B2 |
Amplifier circuit with noise suppression and related noise suppression method thereof
An amplifier circuit includes an amplifier and a noise suppression block. The amplifier is arranged for receiving an input signal at an input port and generating an output signal at an output port according to the input signal. The noise suppression block is coupled between the input port and the output port of the amplifier, and arranged for receiving the input signal and the output signal and applying noise suppression to the output signal generated from the amplifier according to the received input signal and the received output signal. |
| US08633766B2 |
Pseudo-envelope follower power management system with high frequency ripple current compensation
Embodiments disclosed in the detailed description relate to a pseudo-envelope follower power management system including a parallel amplifier and a switch mode power supply converter cooperatively coupled to generate a power supply voltage at a power supply output coupled to a linear RF power amplifier. The parallel amplifier output is in communication with the power amplifier supply output. The parallel amplifier governs operation of the switch mode power supply converter and regulates the power amplifier supply voltage base on a VRAMP signal. The parallel amplifier circuit includes an open loop high frequency compensation assist circuit that generates a high frequency ripple compensation current based on an estimate of the high frequency ripple currents contained in a ripple current of the power inductor. The high frequency ripple compensation current is injected into the parallel amplifier circuit output to cancel out high frequency ripple currents at the power amplifier supply output. |
| US08633763B2 |
Output circuits with class D amplifier
Output circuits using pulse width modulation (PWM) and/or pulse density modulation (PDM) are described. In one aspect, a PWM output circuit includes a PWM modulator that operates based on a square wave signal instead of a sawtooth or triangular wave signal. In another aspect, a PDM output circuit includes a PDM modulator that uses variable reference voltages to reduce variations in switching frequency. In yet another aspect, a dual-mode output circuit supports both PWM and PDM and includes a pulse modulator and a class D amplifier. The pulse modulator performs PWM on an input signal if a PWM mode is selected and performs PDM on the input signal if a PDM mode is selected. The class D amplifier receives a driver signal from the pulse modulator and generates an output signal. |
| US08633758B2 |
Semiconductor device having boosting circuit
A semiconductor device includes a boosting circuit that boosts an internal power supply voltage in a boosting range according to an external power supply voltage, an external voltage-level comparison circuit that compares the external power supply voltage and a predetermined reference voltage, and a variable resistor circuit that includes a variable resistor connected to an output terminal of the boosting circuit. The variable resistor circuit controls a resistance value of the variable resistor based on a comparison result of the external voltage-level comparison circuit. |
| US08633757B1 |
Low-noise, temperature-insensitive, voltage or current input, analog front end architecture
AFE circuitry handles both voltage and current input signals. In one embodiment, both a voltage path and a current path are provided from the input. Switching circuitry selects one of the paths. A switch also turns on or off a current-to-voltage conversion circuit used to convert a current input into a voltage. In one embodiment, noise is significantly reduced by using a dedicated ground pin or terminal for the negative reference of a differential circuit. This applies the same external board noise, which is on the input signal, to the negative reference, so the noise is canceled in the differential signal. In one embodiment, temperature compensation is provided via an IPTAT circuit which is used to shift the voltage up in order to balance the decrease in DC voltage with increasing temperature. |
| US08633752B2 |
Delay circuit and method for driving the same
A delay circuit includes a pulse generation unit configured to generate a pulse signal, which is activated in response to an input signal and has a pulse width corresponding to delay information, and an output unit configured to activate a final output signal in response to a deactivation of the pulse signal. |
| US08633742B2 |
Circuit and method for generating power-up signal
A power-up signal generation circuit includes a power-up signal generator configured to enable a power-up signal when a level of an external power voltage is higher than a target level, and a target level controller configured to change the target level in response to a current consumption signal indicating a current consumption of a system including the power-up signal generation circuit. |
| US08633738B2 |
Slew-rate limited output driver with output-load sensing feedback loop
Output driver feedback circuitry is configured to sense an amount of output capacitance of an output pad and to adjust the strength of the output driver accordingly. The feedback circuitry adjusts the output driver within a single cycle. A chain of delay reference signals is generated by representative capacitive loads that replicate a range of actual output loads. Adjustments to the output driver are based on a comparison of the delay reference signals with output of the output driver. |
| US08633734B2 |
Bi-directional comparator
A bi-directional comparator compares two input signals and applies a hysteresis level to the smaller input signal only after the output signal switches logical states and when the two input signals are within a predetermined range of each other. In one embodiment, the hysteresis applied to the smaller input signal is removed when the two input signals are no longer within the predetermined range of each other. |
| US08633733B2 |
Voltage mode transmitter equalizer
A voltage mode transmitter equalizer has high efficiencies, yet consumes substantially constant supply current from the power supply and provides constant back-match impedance. The voltage mode transmitter equalizer is configured such that the output voltage of the signal to be output on a pair of transmission lines can be controlled according to the input data, but its return impedance is substantially matched to the differential impedance of the transmission lines and it draws substantially constant supply current from the power supply regardless of the output voltage of the signal. Further, an equalizer for a voltage-mode transmitter provides fine-granularity equalization settings by employing a variable pull-up conductance and a variable pull-down conductance. Conductance is varied by selectively enabling a plurality of conductance channels, at least some of which have resistance values that are distinct from one another. |
| US08633730B1 |
Power control using global control signal to selected circuitry in a programmable integrated circuit
When a first sub-circuit of a programmable integrated circuit (“IC”) is to be deactivated, a global write enable (GWE) signal is deasserted. In response to deassertion of the GWE signal and a first memory cell associated with the first sub-circuit being in a first state, flip-flops in the first sub-circuit are disabled from changing state. In response to memory cells associated with sub-circuits other than the first sub-circuit being in a second state, flip-flops in the other sub-circuits are enabled to change state. When the first sub-circuit is to be activated, the GWE signal is asserted. Logic implemented by the first sub-circuit is preserved between the deasserting and the asserting of the GWE signal. In response to assertion of the GWE signal and the first memory cell associated with the first sub-circuit being in the first state, flip-flops in the first sub-circuit are enabled to change state. |
| US08633729B1 |
Localized plasmon-polariton (LPP) logic gates and computing
A computing structure is described. The computing structure includes at least one logic gate. The at least one logic gate has an arrangement of nano-particles configured to propagate localized plasmon-polaritons (LLPs). The logic gate may have a gate state and be configured to perform a logic function based on a desired logical output. |
| US08633726B2 |
Semiconductor device evaluation apparatus and semiconductor device evaluation method
A semiconductor device evaluation apparatus includes a current measurement portion that measures a current value at multiple times included in a period from the beginning of application of a voltage to a semiconductor device to a steady state of the current value flowing through the semiconductor device; a period division portion that divides the period into a first period and a second period later than the first period and finds a curve approximately representing a temporal change in a current value measured at time included in the second period so that a difference between a current value measured at the time included in the first period and a current value found by extrapolating the curve at the same time becomes greater than a specified threshold value; and a current estimation portion that estimates a current value flowing through the semiconductor device at the start time. |
| US08633725B2 |
Scan or JTAG controllable capture clock generation
A capture clock generation control mechanism is provided. The capture clock generation control mechanism controls the number of at-speed clocks generated and supplied to one or more scan chains during scan testing of a microcircuit based on control data stored in a JTAG or scan test register. The scan test register may be formed out of scan cells and comprise part of a scan chain. Automatic Test Pattern Generation (ATPG) tools may generate the data that is loaded into the scan test register to automatically configure the clock generation control mechanism. The clock control mechanism may include the ability to adjust the position of the at-speed clocks within a capture cycle, thereby facilitating transition fault detection. |
| US08633724B2 |
Probe-unit base member and probe unit
A probe-unit base member having high rigidity and requiring no troublesome operations for its manufacture and a probe unit are provided. To achieve the purpose, the probe-unit base member includes a conductive substrate 41 that has a first opening 41a capable of fitting therein a probe holder 3 and a second opening 41b communicated with the first opening 41a; a coating 42 that is made of an insulating adhesive agent and is coated at least on an edge of the second opening 41b; and an insulating guide member 43 that is bonded to the edge of the second opening 41b through the coating 42 and guides one of two contact bodies to a position in contact with probes 2. |
| US08633723B2 |
Semiconductor apparatus
A semiconductor apparatus according to aspects of the invention includes a power MOSFET including a main MOSFET and sensing MOSFET's. The main MOSFET and the sensing MOSFET's are formed on a semiconductor substrate, and a sensing MOSFET is selected for changing the sensing ratio and further for confining the sensing ratio variations within a certain narrow range stably from a low main current range to a high main current range. A semiconductor apparatus according to aspects of the invention facilitates reducing the manufacturing costs thereof, obviating the cumbersomeness caused in the use thereof, and confining the sensing ratio variations within a certain narrow range stably. |
| US08633722B1 |
Method and circuit for testing accuracy of delay circuitry
In one embodiment a circuit for testing delays is provided. A test signal generator circuit toggles a plurality of output signals 1 through N in sequential order, separating the toggles by a delay period. Each output signal is coupled to an input of a respective one of a plurality of delay circuits. A phase detector circuit is coupled to the delay circuits and is configured to determine the order in which signals output from delay circuits X−1, X, and X+1 are toggled for each delay circuit X. In response to the output signals being toggled in the order X−1 followed by X followed by X+1, the phase comparator circuit is configured to output a first signal indicating correct operation. Otherwise, the phase comparator circuit is configured to output a second signal indicating incorrect operation. |
| US08633721B1 |
Test fixture utilizing a docking station and interchangeable cassettes
An automated electronics circuit test cassette assembly is provided for mating with a test platform. The platform comprises a platform common signal interface and a vacuum manifold having a combined registration and vacuum port coupler. The cassette assembly includes a cassette common signal interface providing electrical communication with the platform common signal interface and an alignment bushing providing combined registration and vacuum communication with the vacuum port coupler. A pattern of test probes mimic a test pattern on a printed circuit assembly (PCA), extending upwards from a probe support substrate and optionally downward from a clamshell probe substrate. The PCA is supported by a PCA support substrate floating above the test probe support substrate. The clamshell test substrate provides a vacuum seal above the PCA support substrate. Testing is completed by applying a vacuum, which draws the probes against the PCA, and applying testing signals through electrical connections created therebetween. |
| US08633719B2 |
Method and device for position detection
A device comprises a plurality of strips intersecting each other to form a plurality of intersecting regions. A pair of strips intersecting on an intersecting region contact to each other on a contact point to form a depressed intersecting region. The erroneously determined intersecting regions can be detected by comparing the contact points with the corresponding intersecting regions so as to provide the only correct contact points. |
| US08633716B2 |
Method and device for position detection
A method and the device for position detection are disclosed. The device comprises a plurality of strips intersecting each other to form a plurality of intersecting regions. A pair of depressed strips intersecting on an intersecting region contact to each other to form a depressed intersecting region. According to the depressed intersecting regions, each depression can be determined. The total contact impedance of a depressing crossover a plurality of intersecting regions is the parallel contact impedance of the contact impedances of all intersecting regions corresponding to the same depression. |
| US08633713B2 |
Internal pipe coating inspection robot
There is provided herein a robot-based electrical system for locating holidays within coated pipe that does not utilize a grounding wire. In a preferred arrangement, the robot will carry a metal rotating brush/capacitive pad combination and changes in the capacitance in the brush/pad circuit will be used to identify imperfections in the interior coating of the pipe and especially those located proximate a girth weld. In another preferred embodiment, a circumferential brush will be used that allows testing of the integrity of the internal coating throughout the length of the pipe as the robot travels the pipeline. |
| US08633710B1 |
Method and apparatus for constructing images from measurements of impedence
Apparatus and methods are disclosed for obtaining an image of the impedance properties of an object by inferring a measure of straight-line path impedance along a plurality of paths from a plurality of current amplitude and phase measurements made between combinations of electrodes placed at selected points, and/or from measurements of the intensity of the electromagnetic signal emitted when an alternating current is made to resonate along the straight line path. |
| US08633705B2 |
Characterization of electrical power distribution systems
Embodiments of methods and apparatuses for characterizing an electrical power distribution system are disclosed. One method includes applying, by at least one test/response unit, at least one test signal to at least one test point of the system, measuring, by a plurality of test/response units, a plurality of response signals at a plurality of test points, wherein the plurality of response signals are generated in response to the at least one test signal, and characterizing the system based on the plurality of response signals. |
| US08633702B2 |
Apparatus and method for actively balancing impedance of a resistivity measuring tool
An apparatus for making a resistivity measurement of an underground formation surrounding a borehole is provided. The apparatus includes a conductive tool body, at least one current injector electrode positioned between the tool body and a wall of the bore hole, at least one current return electrode positioned between the tool body and the wall of the bore hole, an electrical measurement device configured to monitor a voltage or a current signal indicative of an impedance imbalance, a regulator connected to the electrical measurement device, whereby the regulator is configured to receive the voltage or the current signal indicative of the impedance imbalance and is configured to generate an adjustment signal based on the voltage or the current signal indicative of the impedance imbalance. |
| US08633699B2 |
Techniques for determining physical properties of underground structures using lightning
A method and apparatus includes detecting lightning induced electromagnetic pulses and determining a physical property of an underground structure based on the lightning induced electromagnetic pulses. In some embodiments, an apparatus includes an antenna, a low noise amplifier, a processor, cable, and a transmitter. The antenna includes three substantively perpendicular loops of electrical conductors. The processor is configured to condition the amplified signal. The cable is about 100 meters in length and connects the low noise amplifier to the processor. The transmitter is configured to send conditioned data to a data aggregation system. |
| US08633695B2 |
Adiabatic multi-band RF pulses for selective signal suppression in a magnetic resonance imaging
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system, comprising: a magnetic resonance imaging scanner comprising: a main magnet providing a substantially uniform main magnetic field B0 for a subject under observation; and a radio frequency (RF) coil configured to irradiate a radio frequency (RF) pulse into a region of interest of the subject under observation, wherein the RF pulse comprises a base pulse comprising an adiabatic pulse having a first bandwidth time product (BWTP), wherein the RF pulse selectively suppresses magnetic resonance signals from more than one chemical component or more than one spatial region within the region of interest of the subject under observation, and wherein the adiabatic pulse is characterized by an amplitude modulation function and a frequency modulation function. |
| US08633690B2 |
Method of operating an MRI imaging system, while also controlling graadient and shim sub-systems along with the MRI imaging system
In an imaging system having a number of subsystems and a control device that controls the subsystems in a coordinated manner to implement a measurement sequence and an operating method therefor, sequence control data that define different functional sub-sequences of the measurement sequence are transmitted to the control device. Different active volumes are associated with the functional sub-sequences. In addition to the sequence control data, active volume position data are provided to the control device that define bearing and extent of the active volumes associated with the different functional sub-sequences. Control signals to implement the measurement sequence for the different subsystems are generated automatically by the control device based on the sequence control data and the active volume position data so that the individual functional sub-sequences are locally optimized at least with regard to a sub-region of their associated active volume. |
| US08633685B2 |
System and method for measuring alignment errors of shafts
The invention concerns a system for measuring the alignment error of two axles provided with a first and a second coupling part by means of a biaxial orthogonal magnetic sensor system comprising a sensor and a magnet, wherein said sensor is designed to be placed on the first coupling part with its one direction of sensing oriented in one direction of magnetization of said magnet, which magnet is designed to be placed on the other coupling part and means for reading off an angle error and offset error independently of each other during the rotation of the axles on-line. The system moreover includes a reference sensor for determining said angle error and offset error orientation relative to a known direction. |
| US08633683B2 |
Apparatus with abnormality determination function and method for determining abnormality
The apparatus is provided with an abnormality determination means for determining abnormality of the apparatus where two different combinations of two electrodes are selected from the three electrodes, an alternating-current voltage is applied to an electrode in one combination by the voltage-applying portion to measure a value of a current flowing to the other electrode via the dielectric body by electrostatic coupling, an alternating-current voltage is applied to an electrode in another combination out of the at least two different combinations by the voltage-applying portion to measure a value of a current flowing to the other electrode via the dielectric body by electrostatic coupling, and an abnormality of the apparatus is determined from the current values measured. |
| US08633682B2 |
Switching power supply controller with selective feedback sampling and waveform approximation
A switching power supply controller which includes at least one switching element, and controls a switching cycle during which the switching elements are switched on and off to regulate the power supply's output voltage. The controller has a feedback signal which represents the output voltage, and a circuit node which conducts a current that is higher during a second portion of the switching cycle than it is during a first portion, such that the feedback signal varies with the current conducted by the node. To overcome feedback signal inaccuracies, a sampling circuit samples a signal which varies with the feedback signal only during the first portion of the switching cycle; the controller then regulates the output voltage in response to the sampled signal. The sampling circuit may be further arranged to produce an output which approximates the portion of the feedback signal waveform which is not sampled. |
| US08633677B2 |
Battery pack and method of charging battery pack
A battery pack and a method of charging the same are disclosed. The battery pack is chargeable by a variety of chargers which have different output voltages. |
| US08633674B2 |
Universal charger
A universal charger includes a portable charger housing, an universal charging arrangement, and an energy input device. The universal charging arrangement includes a charging circuitry for managing electricity charging of the rechargeable battery, and a plurality of charging terminals movably provided in the battery compartment of the portable charging housing, wherein the charging terminals are adapted to move in the battery compartment to accurately and adjustably align with the battery terminals of the rechargeable battery. The energy input device is electrically connected with the charging circuitry, which is capable of charging a wide variety of electronic devices by acquiring power through a convention USB port. |
| US08633673B2 |
Battery charging system for notebook computer
The apparatus includes an AC adapter input, a battery charger coupled to the input to charge a battery, a temperature sensor, and system logic to execute code stored on storage devices. The battery charger provides a charging current that is a function of temperature sensed by the temperature sensor. The charging current may also be a function of sensed barometric pressure, battery age, external temperature, a full charge capacity, and system power demand. |
| US08633670B2 |
Reconfigurable energy storage system
An energy storage system for charging/discharging power of a plurality of battery packs connected between a grid and a variable power source, the energy storage system including an inverter connected between the grid, the plurality of battery packs, and the variable power source, the inverter inverting an AC power into a DC power and inverting a DC power into an AC power according to charge/discharge, a plurality of converters connected between the battery pack, the variable power source, and the grid, the converters being connected to the battery packs in a one-to-one relationship to convert a charge/discharge power of the battery packs, respectively, a plurality of battery switching devices, the battery switching devices being respectively connected between the converters and the battery packs, and a controller connected to the inverter and the converter to control driving, the controller controlling a turn-on/off operation of the battery switching devices. |
| US08633663B2 |
Control device that detects whether or not irreversible demagnetization has occurred in permanent magnet of permanent magnet synchronous motor
An estimated torque constant calculation unit calculates an estimated torque constant relating to the permanent magnet synchronous motor from a current representative value and an acceleration representative value acquired from a plurality of current values and a plurality of acceleration values in the same operation state over a plurality of periods of a sinusoidal command signal and a predetermined inertia relating to the permanent magnet synchronous motor. A demagnetization detection unit detects whether or not irreversible demagnetization has occurred in the permanent magnet of the permanent magnet synchronous motor based on a difference between the estimated torque constant and a predetermined torque constant relating to the permanent magnet synchronous motor. |
| US08633660B2 |
Control device, LED light emitting device including the same, and control method
The present invention relates to a switching operation control device of a power switch, an LED light emitting device including the same, and a control method thereof. The control device detects a zero crossing time when a voltage at an input end of the power switch becomes a zero voltage, generates a reference signal that is synchronized with the voltage at the input end of the power switch by using the detected zero crossing time, and compensates the generated reference signal with a first voltage that is greater than the zero voltage during a blocking period corresponding to the zero crossing time. |
| US08633659B2 |
Lighting device, headlamp apparatus and vehicle using same
A lighting device includes: a power converting unit; a voltage measuring unit for measuring an output voltage from the power converting unit or a value equivalent to the output voltage; a current measuring unit for measuring an output current from the power converting unit or a value equivalent to the output current; and a control unit for controlling the power converting unit. When one of the output voltage and the output current of the power converting unit is changed by a specific magnitude per unit hour, the control unit determines that a change in a load status has occurred and controls the power converting unit by switching constant current control in which a measurement value of the current measuring unit is kept at a specific current designated value to constant voltage control in which a measurement value of the voltage measuring unit is kept at a specific voltage designated value. |
| US08633658B2 |
Light emitting device module and surface light source device
A light emitting device package includes a package body; a first light emitting device mounted on the package body and emitting light of a particular color; a second light emitting device mounted on the package body to be adjacent to the first light emitting device, adjusting an amount of light according to a current value applied thereto to thereby control a color temperature, and emitting orange light; and a resin part sealing the first and second light emitting devices and containing at least one or more types of phosphors. |
| US08633657B2 |
Digitally controlled current regulator for high power solid state lighting
A representative apparatus embodiment provides for controlling current supplied to solid state lighting, such as light emitting diodes. A representative apparatus comprises a memory adapted to store a plurality of current parameters, and a control circuit adapted to modulate an energizing cycle time period for providing a substantially constant DC average current to the solid state lighting in response to a selected current parameter from the plurality of current parameters. In a representative embodiment, the control circuit modulates a current provided to the solid state lighting in response to a predetermined minimum current level (IMIN) parameter and a predetermined peak current level (IP) parameter, such that the DC average current level (IO) is substantially proportional to one-half of a sum of a predetermined peak current level (IP) and a predetermined minimum current level IMIN ( I O ∝ I P + I MI N 2 ) . |
| US08633649B2 |
System and method for color creation and matching
Systems and methods for controlling an output of a luminaire. The luminaire uses stored spectral information for light sources within the luminaire to determine a coordinate for each light source within a color space. A desired output color is also converted to a coordinate within the color space. The distance between the desired output color coordinate and each of the coordinates corresponding to the light sources is calculated to select initial control values for the light sources. The initial control values for each light source are individually modified by a step size value, the total output of the luminaire is calculated and converted to a coordinate within the color space, and the distance between the total luminaire output coordinate and the desired color coordinate is calculated. The control values for the light sources are iteratively modified until the luminaire output coordinate is within a threshold value of the desired color output. |
| US08633645B2 |
Fluorescent lamp assembly with improved run-up
A discharge lamp having an improved run-up time is disclosed. In an embodiment, the discharge lamp includes a light-transmissive discharge tube extending from a first end to a second end and having an inner surface and an outer surface, a phosphor coating layered onto the inner surface of the discharge tube, and a fill gas composition capable of sustaining a discharge sealed within the discharge tube. Also included is a resistive heating wire positioned about the outer surface of the discharge tube. In some embodiments, a lamp driver circuit is included that operates when the lamp is turned ON to provide power to electrodes in the discharge tube and to provide power to the resistive heating wire, and operates to disconnect power from the resistive heating wire when the discharge lamp achieves a predetermined percentage of its stabilized lumen output. |
| US08633643B2 |
LED package, LED package module having the same and manufacturing method thereof, and head lamp module having the same and control method thereof
Disclosed are an LED package, an LED package module having the same and a manufacturing method thereof, and a head lamp module having the same and a control method thereof. The light emitting diode package includes: a package substrate; a light emitting diode chip mounted on one surface of the package substrate; an electrode pad formed on the other surface of the package substrate and electrically connected to the light emitting diode chip; and a heat radiation pad formed on the other surface of the package substrate and electrically insulated from the electrode pad. |
| US08633636B2 |
Laminated ceramic electronic component and manufacturing method thereof
In a method for manufacturing a laminated ceramic electronic component, when a plating film to define an external terminal electrode is formed by plating exposed ends of a plurality of internal electrodes at a WT surface of a component main body, ingress of a plating solution may be caused from a gap between an end edge of the plating film and the component main body to decrease the reliability of a laminated electronic component obtained. An internal dummy electrode is provided around a region where the exposed ends of the plurality of internal electrodes are distributed in the WT surface of the component main body. The internal dummy electrode includes two LW-direction sections extending parallel or substantially parallel to each other in a direction along the LW surface, and two LT-direction sections extending parallel or substantially parallel to each other in a direction along the LT surface. The plating film is formed at least over the exposed end of the internal dummy electrode. The internal dummy electrode is formed by wrapping an outer layer sheet with the internal dummy electrode formed around a laminate composed of ceramic layers and the internal electrodes. |
| US08633634B2 |
MEMs-based cantilever energy harvester
The claimed invention is directed to integrated energy-harvesting piezoelectric cantilevers. The cantilevers are fabricated using sol-gel processing using a sacrificial poly-Si seeding layer. Improvements in film microstructure and electrical properties are realized by introducing a poly-Si seeding layer and by optimizing the poling process. |
| US08633628B2 |
Switched reluctance motor
Disclosed herein is a switched reluctance motor including: a salient pole type stator that includes a plurality of teeth having a coil wound therearound and a magnet mounted between the teeth; and a salient pole type rotor that is inserted into a central portion of the stator and rotates, wherein the magnet is mounted between the teeth having the coil wound therearound. |
| US08633627B2 |
Electric machine
A permanent magnet machine includes a stator having a stator core, a plurality of stator teeth and plurality of stator windings coupled to the stator core. The stator is configured to generate a stator magnetic rotating field when the stator windings are excited with an electric current. The stator magnetic rotating field includes both synchronous sub-harmonic and super-harmonic components. The permanent magnet machine also includes a rotor that is disposed within the stator. The rotor includes a rotor core and a plurality of rotor magnets that are coupled to the rotor core. The rotor magnets are further configured to have a predefined orientation profile such that when the stator windings are excited with an electric current, sub-harmonic and super-harmonic magnetic rotating fields are generated in the rotor magnetic field. The stator sub-harmonic and super-harmonic magnetic rotating fields interact with the rotor sub-harmonic and super-harmonic magnetic rotating fields and produce an aiding torque on in the permanent magnet machine. |
| US08633616B2 |
Modular pocket with inductive power and data
A modular pocket system includes a modularly mountable pocket modularly mountable to a tactical garment. An insert is mounted in the pocket to align and closely inductively couple a primary inductive coil and related primary drive circuits in the insert to a secondary inductive coil and related secondary charging circuits in a portable electronic device mountable into the insert for the inductively coupled transmission of power between the coils so to transmit power to the portable device, where the device has a rechargeable energy storage component electrically connected to the secondary inductive coil and secondary charging circuits. |
| US08633615B2 |
Wireless power transmission/reception apparatus and method
Disclosed herein is a wireless power transmission/reception apparatus. The wireless power transmission/reception apparatus includes a wireless power transmission unit and a wireless power reception unit. The wireless power transmission unit receives power, generates a wireless power signal to be wirelessly transmitted, wirelessly transmits the generated wireless power signal in a magnetic resonance manner, receives a returned wireless power signal and detects the number of power consumption devices, and wirelessly transmits a wireless power signal using resonance frequency appropriate for the number of power consumption devices. |
| US08633613B2 |
Power converter
A power converter includes a DC input (26) connected to an inductive element (TR), a switch (T1) arranged to interrupt the inductive current cyclically with a predetermined cycle period, a plurality of load circuits (31, 32, 33), and a multiplexer (36) having a plurality of parallel channels (M1, M2, M3) between first and second output terminals (34, 38) of the inductive element (TR), wherein each channel includes one of the load circuits (31, 32, 33), and the multiplexer is adapted to make the channels conductive sequentially and periodically, and the multiplexer has a switching period that is a multiple of the predetermined cycle period of the switch (T1). |
| US08633608B2 |
Apparatus and method for extracting energy from fluid motion
An apparatus and method are disclosed for extracting energy from fluid motion. A deformable body adapted to be deformed by fluid motion is arranged to drive at least one energy medium to be delivered to an energy output. The energy medium is controllable in order to control at least one dynamic response of the deformable body. |
| US08633605B2 |
Magnetic flux power generation based on oscilating movement
This invention describes a device for the generation of electric energy from small movements which comprises: a magnet with the shape of a solid of revolution which comprises at least a couple of poles (N, S) placed around an axis of revolution; a tube whose transversal section is complementary to the shape of the magnet, and which comprises a winding rolled transversally around it, with the magnet placed in the interior of the tube so that an inclination of the tube causes the magnet to roll, traveling along the interior of the tube and inducing tension on the winding. |
| US08633600B2 |
Device and method for manufacturing a device
A device includes a semiconductor material having a first surface. A first material is applied to the first surface and a fiber material is embedded in the first material. |
| US08633597B2 |
Thermal vias in an integrated circuit package with an embedded die
In a multi-module integrated circuit package having a package substrate and package contacts, a die is embedded in the package substrate with thermal vias that couple hotspots on the embedded die to some of the package contacts. |
| US08633595B2 |
Semiconductor device having groove-shaped via-hole
The semiconductor device has insulating films 40, 42 formed over a substrate 10; an interconnection 58 buried in at least a surface side of the insulating films 40, 42; insulating films 60, 62 formed on the insulating film 42 and including a hole-shaped via-hole 60 and a groove-shaped via-hole 66a having a pattern bent at a right angle; and buried conductors 70, 72a buried in the hole-shaped via-hole 60 and the groove-shaped via-hole 66a. A groove-shaped via-hole 66a is formed to have a width which is smaller than a width of the hole-shaped via-hole 66. Defective filling of the buried conductor and the cracking of the inter-layer insulating film can be prevented. Steps on the conductor plug can be reduced. Accordingly, defective contact with the upper interconnection layer and the problems taking place in forming films can be prevented. |
| US08633594B2 |
Semiconductor device having groove-shaped via-hole
The semiconductor device has insulating films 40, 42 formed over a substrate 10; an interconnection 58 buried in at least a surface side of the insulating films 40, 42; insulating films 60, 62 formed on the insulating film 42 and including a hole-shaped via-hole 60 and a groove-shaped via-hole 66a having a pattern bent at a right angle; and buried conductors 70, 72a buried in the hole-shaped via-hole 60 and the groove-shaped via-hole 66a. A groove-shaped via-hole 66a is formed to have a width which is smaller than a width of the hole-shaped via-hole 66. Defective filling of the buried conductor and the cracking of the inter-layer insulating film can be prevented. Steps on the conductor plug can be reduced. Accordingly, defective contact with the upper interconnection layer and the problems taking place in forming films can be prevented. |
| US08633593B2 |
Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device includes a semiconductor substrate; and a through electrode that penetrates the semiconductor substrate. The semiconductor substrate has a groove structure that is positioned between a peripheral edge of the semiconductor substrate and the through electrode. |
| US08633592B2 |
Hybrid interconnect technology
In one embodiment, an interconnect structure between an integrated circuit (IC) chip and a substrate comprises a plurality of materials. |
| US08633591B2 |
Electronic device
In a conventional electronic device and a method of manufacturing the same, reduction in cost of the electronic device is hindered because resin used in an interconnect layer on the solder ball side is limited. The electronic device includes an interconnect layer (a first interconnect layer) and an interconnect layer (a second interconnect layer). The second interconnect layer is formed on the undersurface of the first interconnect layer. The second interconnect layer is larger in area seen from the top than the first interconnect layer and is extended to the outside from the first interconnect layer. |
| US08633588B2 |
Semiconductor package
The invention provides a semiconductor package. The semiconductor package includes a substrate. A first conductive trace is disposed on the substrate. A solder resistance layer is disposed on the substrate, having an extending portion covering a portion of the first conductive trace, wherein a width of the extending portion of the solder resistance layer is larger than that of the portion of the first conductive trace. A semiconductor die is disposed over the first conductive trace. |
| US08633583B2 |
Semiconductor package substrate and methods for forming same, in particular for MEMS devices
A semiconductor package substrate suitable for supporting a damage-sensitive device and a package substrate core having an upper and a lower surface. At least one pair of metal layers coats the upper and lower surfaces of the package substrate core. One pair of solder mask layers coats the outer metal layers of the at least one pair of metal layers. A plurality of vias is formed across the package substrate core and the at least one pair of metal layers. Advantageously, the plurality of vias is substantially distributed according to a homogeneous pattern in an area that is to be covered by the damage-sensitive device. A method for the production of such semiconductor package substrate is also described. |
| US08633580B2 |
Integrated void fill for through silicon via
A microelectronic assembly having a through hole extending through a first wafer (or chip) and a second wafer (or chip) are provided. The first and second wafers (or chips) have confronting faces and metallic features at the faces which are joined together to assemble the first and second wafers (or chips) leaving a gap between the confronting faces. A hole is etched in the first wafer (or chip), then material is sputtered to form a wall of material in the gap between wafers (or chips). Etching continues to extend the hole into or through the second wafer (or chip). The hole is filled to form a substantially vertical through silicon conductive via. |
| US08633579B2 |
Multi-chip package and method of manufacturing the same
A multi-chip package may include a package substrate, an interposer chip, a first semiconductor chip, a thermal dissipation structure and a second semiconductor chip. The interposer chip may be mounted on the package substrate. The first semiconductor chip may be mounted on the interposer chip. The first semiconductor chip may have a size smaller than that of the interposer chip. The thermal dissipation structure may be arranged on the interposer chip to surround the first semiconductor chip. The thermal dissipation structure may transfer heat in the first semiconductor chip to the interposer chip. The second semiconductor chip may be mounted on the first semiconductor chip. Thus, the heat in the first semiconductor chip may be effectively transferred to the interposer chip through the thermal dissipation line. |
| US08633577B2 |
Integrated circuit device
Provided on a chip are a plurality of conductor patterns for forming a coil, and a connection-relationship control device for controlling connection between adjacent conductor patterns. By switching the connection relationship of the conductor patterns by the connection-relationship control device, it is possible to form a coil of a desired shape at a desired position. |
| US08633573B2 |
Strained semiconductor materials, devices and methods therefore
Various applications are directed to a material stack having a strained active material therein. In connection with an embodiment, an active material (e.g. a semiconductor material) is at least initially and partially released from and suspended over a substrate, strained, and held in place. The release and suspension facilitates the application of strain to the semiconductor material. |
| US08633571B2 |
Semiconductor device and test method
A semiconductor device includes a semiconductor substrate including an element region, an inner sealing and an outer sealing which are formed on the element region and have a first opening part and a second opening part, respectively, a multilayer interconnection structure which is formed on the substrate and stacks multiple inter-layer insulation films each including a wiring layer, a moisture resistant film formed between a first inter-layer insulation film and a second inter-layer insulation film which are included in the multilayer interconnection structure, a first portion which extended from a first side of the moisture resistant film and passes the first opening part, a second portion which extended from a second side of the moisture resistant film and passes through the second opening part, and a wiring pattern including a via plug which penetrates the moisture resistant film and connects the first portion and the second portion. |
| US08633569B1 |
AlN inter-layers in III-N material grown on REO/silicon substrate
III-N material grown on a silicon substrate includes a single crystal rare earth oxide layer positioned on a silicon substrate. The rare earth oxide is substantially crystal lattice matched to the surface of the silicon substrate. A first layer of III-N material is positioned on the surface of the rare earth oxide layer. An inter-layer of aluminum nitride (AlN) is positioned on the surface of the first layer of III-N material and an additional layer of III-N material is positioned on the surface of the inter-layer of aluminum nitride. The inter-layer of aluminum nitride and the additional layer of III-N material are repeated n-times to reduce or engineer strain in a final III-N layer. |
| US08633566B2 |
Memory cell repair
A repairable memory cell in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure includes a storage element positioned between a first and a second electrode, and a repair element positioned between the storage element and at least one of the first electrode and the second electrode. |
| US08633565B2 |
Semiconductor device including fuse having form of capacitor
A semiconductor device includes a fuse having the form of a capacitor. The semiconductor device includes a cathode formed on a semiconductor substrate, an anode formed over the cathode, and at least one filament having a cylindrical-shell shape formed between the cathode and the anode and electrically connecting the cathode and the anode. |
| US08633560B2 |
Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device capable of decreasing a reverse leakage current and a forward voltage is provided. In the semiconductor device, an anode electrode undergoes Schottky junction by being connected to a surface of an SiC epitaxial layer that has the surface, a back surface, and trapezoidal trenches formed on the side of the surface each having side walls and a bottom wall. Furthermore, an edge portion of the bottom wall of each of the trapezoidal trenches is formed to be in the shape bent towards the outside of the trapezoidal trench in the manner that a radius of curvature R satisfies 0.01 |
| US08633559B2 |
Solid-state imaging device, method of manufacturing the same, and electronic apparatus
A solid-state imaging device includes light-sensing sections serving as pixels, and waveguides each including a core layer and a cladding layer, the waveguides each being disposed at a position corresponding to one of the light-sensing sections. A cross-sectional structure of the waveguide taken in the horizontal direction of an imaging plane is different from a cross-sectional structure of the waveguide taken in the vertical direction of the imaging plane. |
| US08633558B2 |
Package structure for a chip and method for fabricating the same
The embodiment provides a package structure for a chip and a method for fabricating the same. The package structure for the chip includes a chip having a substrate and a bonding pad structure. The chip has an upper surface and a lower surface. An upper packaging layer covers the upper surface of the chip. A spacer layer is between the upper packaging layer and the chip. A conductive path is electrically connected to the bonding pad structure. An anti-reflective layer is disposed between the spacer layer and the upper packaging layer. An overlapping region is between the anti-reflective layer and the spacer layer. |
| US08633556B2 |
Solid-state imaging device and method for making the same, and manufacturing substrate for solid-state imaging device
A method for making a solid-state imaging device includes forming a pinning layer, which is a P-type semiconductor layer or an N-type semiconductor layer, on a first substrate by deposition; forming a semiconductor layer on the pinning layer; forming a photoelectric conversion unit in the semiconductor layer, the photoelectric conversion unit being configured to convert incident light into an electrical signal; forming, on the semiconductor layer, a transistor of a pixel unit and a transistor of a peripheral circuit unit disposed in the periphery of the pixel unit, and then forming a wiring section on the semiconductor layer; bonding a second substrate on the wiring section; and removing the first substrate after the second substrate is bonded. |
| US08633555B2 |
Magnetic sensor
A magnetic sensor suitable for sensing an external magnetic field includes a magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) device. The MTJ device is used to sense an out-of-plane (Z-axis) component of the external magnetic field at a perpendicular direction to the MTJ device. The MTJ device includes a first pinned magnetic layer, a tunnel layer and a magnetic sensing layer. The first pinned magnetic layer has a pinned magnetization perpendicular to the first pinned magnetic layer. The tunnel layer is disposed on the first pinned magnetic layer. The magnetic sensing layer is disposed on the tunnel layer. The magnetic sensing layer has a critical thickness set to be within a range having a superparamagnetic property, in which an out-of-plane (Z-axis) magnetic sensitivity is larger than an in-plane (X-axis, Y-axis) magnetic sensitivity. The first pinned magnetic layer, the tunnel layer and the magnetic sensing layer are stacked in a forward sequence or a reverse sequence. |
| US08633554B2 |
MEMS device etch stop
The present disclosure provides a micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) device and a method for fabricating such a device. In an embodiment, a MEMS device includes a substrate, a dielectric layer above the substrate, an etch stop layer above the dielectric layer, and two anchor plugs above the dielectric layer, the two anchor plugs each contacting the etch stop layer or a top metal layer disposed above the dielectric layer. The device further comprises a MEMS structure layer disposed above a cavity formed between the two anchor plugs and above the etch stop layer from release of a sacrificial layer. |
| US08633552B1 |
ESD protection for MEMS resonator devices
Disclosed herein are MEMS resonator device designs and fabrication techniques that provide protection against electrostatic charge imbalances. In one aspect, a MEMS resonator device includes a substrate, an electrode including a first microstructure supported by the substrate, a resonant element including a second microstructure spaced from the first microstructure by a gap for resonant displacement of the second microstructure within the gap during operation, and a disabled shunt coupled to the electrode or the resonant element. The disabled shunt is disabled to enable the resonant displacement but otherwise configured to protect against damage from an electrostatic charge imbalance before the operation of the MEMS resonator device. |
| US08633550B2 |
Semiconductor device
To improve reliability of a semiconductor deviceA power MOSFET for switching and a sense MOSFET having an area smaller than that of the power MOSFET and configured to detect an electric current flowing through the power MOSFET are formed within one semiconductor chip CPH and the semiconductor chip CPH is mounted over a chip mounting part via an electrically conductive joining material and sealed with a resin. In a main surface of the semiconductor chip CPH, a sense MOSFET region in which the sense MOSFET is formed is located more internally than a source pad PDHS4 of the sense MOSFET region RG2. Furthermore, in the main surface of the semiconductor chip, the sense MOSFET region RG2 is surrounded by a region in which the power MOSFET is formed. |
| US08633543B2 |
Electro-static discharge protection circuit and semiconductor device
An electro-static discharge protection circuit includes: a PNPN junction, a P-type side of the PNPN junction being coupled to a terminal, an N-type side of the PNPN junction being coupled to ground; and a P-type metal oxide semiconductor transistor, a source and a gate of the P-type metal oxide semiconductor transistor being coupled to an N-type side of a PN junction whose P-type side coupled to the ground, and a drain of the P-type metal oxide semiconductor transistor being coupled to the terminal. |
| US08633540B2 |
Integrated circuit with a laterally diffused metal oxide semiconductor device and method of forming the same
An integrated circuit with a transistor advantageously embodied in a laterally diffused metal oxide semiconductor device having a gate located over a channel region recessed into a semiconductor substrate and a method of forming the same. In one embodiment, the transistor includes a source/drain including a lightly or heavily doped region adjacent the channel region, and an oppositely doped well extending under the channel region and a portion of the lightly or heavily doped region of the source/drain. The transistor also includes a channel extension, within the oppositely doped well, under the channel region and extending under a portion of the lightly or heavily doped region of the source/drain. |
| US08633538B2 |
Semiconductor device
A semiconductor device comprises a vertical MOS transistor including a semiconductor substrate having a silicon pillar, a gate electrode formed along a sidewall of the silicon pillar, a gate insulating film formed between the gate electrode and the silicon pillar, an upper diffusion layer formed on the top of the silicon pillar, and a lower diffusion layer formed lower than the upper diffusion layer in the semiconductor substrate; and a pad electrically connected to the lower diffusion layer. Breakdown occurs between the lower diffusion layer and the semiconductor substrate when a surge voltage is applied. |
| US08633537B2 |
Memory transistor with multiple charge storing layers and a high work function gate electrode
A semiconductor devices including non-volatile memories and methods of fabricating the same to improve performance thereof are provided. Generally, the device includes a memory transistor comprising a polysilicon channel region electrically connecting a source region and a drain region formed in a substrate, an oxide-nitride-nitride-oxide (ONNO) stack disposed above the channel region, and a high work function gate electrode formed over a surface of the ONNO stack. In one embodiment the ONNO stack includes a multi-layer charge-trapping region including an oxygen-rich first nitride layer and an oxygen-lean second nitride layer disposed above the first nitride layer. Other embodiments are also disclosed. |
| US08633534B2 |
Transistor channel mobility using alternate gate dielectric materials
An apparatus comprises a substrate, a phonon-decoupling layer formed on the substrate, a gate dielectric layer formed on the phonon-decoupling layer, a gate electrode formed on the gate dielectric layer, a pair of spacers formed on opposite sides of the gate electrode, a source region formed in the substrate subjacent to the phonon-decoupling layer, and a drain region formed in the substrate subjacent to the phonon-decoupling layer. The phonon-decoupling layer prevents the formation of a silicon dioxide interfacial layer and reduces coupling between high-k phonons and the field in the substrate. |
| US08633533B2 |
Semiconductor integrated circuit having capacitor for providing stable power and method of manufacturing the same
A capacitor and a method of manufacturing the same are provided. A dummy capacitor group is formed in the peripheral circuit area and includes a dummy storage node contact unit, a dielectric, and a dummy plate electrode. A metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) capacitor is formed in the peripheral circuit area and connected to the dummy capacitor group in parallel. Capacitance of the dummy capacitor group may be greater than that of the MOS capacitor. |
| US08633532B2 |
Semiconductor memory device having a floating body capacitor, memory cell array having the same and method of manufacturing the same
A semiconductor memory device having a floating body capacitor. The semiconductor memory device can perform a memory operation using the floating body capacitor. The semiconductor memory device includes an SOI substrate having a staked structure in which a base substrate having a conducting surface, a buried insulating layer and a device-forming layer are staked, a transistor formed in a portion of the device-forming layer, having a gate, a source region and a drain region, and a capacitor formed by the buried insulating layer, the conducting surface of the base substrate, and accumulated holes generated in the device-forming layer when the transistor is driven. |
| US08633530B2 |
Semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the same
In a power feeding region of a memory cell (MC) in which a sidewall-shaped memory gate electrode (MG) of a memory nMIS (Qnm) is provided by self alignment on a side surface of a selection gate electrode (CG) of a selection nMIS (Qnc) via an insulating film, a plug (PM) which supplies a voltage to the memory gate electrode (MG) is embedded in a contact hole (CM) formed in an interlayer insulating film (9) formed on the memory gate electrode (MG) and is electrically connected to the memory gate electrode (MG). Since a cap insulating film (CAP) is formed on an upper surface of the selection gate electrode (CG), the electrical conduction between the plug (PM) and the selection gate electrode (CG) can be prevented. |
| US08633529B2 |
Vertical transistors
A semiconductor structure having U-shaped transistors includes source/drain regions at the tops of pairs of pillars defined by crossing trenches in the substrate. One pillar is connected to the other pillar in the pair by a ridge that extends above the surrounding trenches. The ridge and lower portions of the pillars define U-shaped channels on opposite sides of the U-shaped structure, facing a gate structure in the trenches on those opposite sides, forming a two sided surround transistor. Optionally, the space between the pillars of a pair is also filled with gate electrode material to define a three-sided surround gate transistor. One of the source/drain regions of each pair extending to a digit line and the other extending to a memory storage device, such as a capacitor. Methods of forming semiconductor structures are also disclosed. |
| US08633525B2 |
Scratch protection for direct contact sensors
In capacitive sensor circuits where physical contact is required and excess pressure may be inadvertently applied to the sensor surface, aluminum is not sufficiently hard to provide “scratch” protection and may delaminate, causing circuit failure, even if passivation integrity remains intact. Because hard passivation layers alone provide insufficient scratch resistance, at least the capacitive electrodes and preferably all metallization levels within the sensor circuit in the region of the capacitive electrodes between the surface and the active regions of the substrate are formed of a conductive material having a hardness greater than that of aluminum, and at least as great as the lowest hardness for any interlevel dielectric or passivation material employed. |
| US08633522B2 |
Semiconductor structure and method for fabricating the same
A semiconductor structure and a method for fabricating the same. A semiconductor structure includes a semiconductor substrate; a channel region formed in the semiconductor substrate; a gate including a dielectric layer and a conductive layer and formed above the channel region; source and drain regions formed at opposing sides of the gate; first shallow trench isolations embedded into the semiconductor substrate and having a length direction parallel to the length direction of the gate; and second shallow trench isolations, each of which abuts the outer sidewall of the source or the drain region and abuts the first shallow trench isolations, in which the source and drain regions include first seed crystal layers abutting the second shallow trench isolations, and the top surfaces of the second shallow trench isolations are higher than or as high as the top surfaces of the source and drain regions. |
| US08633518B2 |
Gallium nitride power devices
Enhancement mode III-nitride devices are described. The 2DEG is depleted in the gate region so that the device is unable to conduct current when no bias is applied at the gate. Both gallium face and nitride face devices formed as enhancement mode devices. |
| US08633514B2 |
Group III nitride semiconductor wafer and group III nitride semiconductor device
A group III nitride semiconductor device and a group III nitride semiconductor wafer are provided. The group III nitride semiconductor device has a channel layer comprising group III nitride-based semiconductor containing Al. The group III nitride semiconductor device can enhance the mobility of the two-dimensional electron gas and improve current characteristics. The group III nitride semiconductor wafer is used to make the group III nitride semiconductor device. The group III nitride semiconductor wafer comprises a substrate made of AlXGa1-XN (0 |
| US08633508B2 |
Semiconductor element and a production method therefor
A semiconductor device according to the embodiment includes a growth substrate; a first buffer layer having a compositional formula of RexSiy (0≦x≦2, 0≦y≦2) over the growth substrate; and a group III nitride-based epitaxial semiconductor layer having a compositional formula of InxAlyGa1-x-yN (0≦x, 0≦y, x+y≦1) over the first buffer layer. |
| US08633507B2 |
LED with versatile mounting ways
An LED includes a base, a first lead and a second lead mounted to the base, a light emitting chip electrically connected to the first lead and the second lead, and an encapsulant sealing the chip. The first lead and the second lead each include a first beam and a second beam connected to each other. Each of the first beam and the second beam has two opposite ends protruding beyond two opposite lateral faces of the base, respectively, for electrically connecting with a circuit board. |
| US08633506B2 |
Semiconductor light emitting device and method for manufacturing the same
A semiconductor light emitting device includes a semiconductor light source, a resin package surrounding the semiconductor light source, and a lead fixed to the resin package. The lead is provided with a die bonding pad for bonding the semiconductor light source, and with an exposed surface opposite to the die bonding pad The exposed surface is surrounded by the resin package in the in-plane direction of the exposed surface. |
| US08633504B2 |
Light emitting device and manufacturing method thereof
A light emitting device includes: a substrate; a light emitting element disposed on the substrate; a wavelength conversion unit disposed on the substrate to cover at least an upper surface of the light emitting element; and a reflection unit formed to cover a side surface and a lower surface of the substrate and having a resin and a reflective filler dispersed in the resin. Light emitting devices having uniform characteristics can be obtained by minimizing a chromaticity distribution of white light with respect to the different light emitting devices. |
| US08633503B2 |
Wafer level light emitting diode package and method of fabricating the same
An exemplary embodiment of the present invention discloses a wafer level light emitting diode package that includes a first substrate having an insulating-reflecting layer and an electrode pattern arranged on a surface of the first substrate, and a conductive via, a terminal on which the first substrate is arranged, a second substrate arranged on the first substrate, the second substrate including a cavity-forming opening, the cavity-forming opening exposing the electrode pattern, and a light-emitting chip arranged on the electrode pattern. The light-emitting chip is a flip-bonded light-emitting structure without a chip substrate, and the conductive via electrically connects the electrode pattern and the terminal. |
| US08633500B2 |
Light emitting diodes and methods for manufacturing light emitting diodes
Light emitting diodes and methods for manufacturing light emitting diodes are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a method for manufacturing a light emitting diode (LED) comprises applying a first light conversion material to a first region on the LED and applying a second light conversion material to a second, different region on the LED. A portion of the LED is exposed after applying the first and second light conversion materials. |
| US08633495B2 |
Nitride semiconductor light-emitting device and method of manufacturing the same
There is provided a nitride semiconductor light emitting device. The nitride semiconductor light emitting device comprises a first nitride semiconductor layer including amorphous powder, an active layer on the first nitride semiconductor layer, and a second nitride semiconductor layer on the active layer. |
| US08633492B2 |
Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing the same
An object is to improve field effect mobility of a thin film transistor using an oxide semiconductor. Another object is to suppress increase in off current even in a thin film transistor with improved field effect mobility. In a thin film transistor using an oxide semiconductor layer, by forming a semiconductor layer having higher electrical conductivity and a smaller thickness than the oxide semiconductor layer between the oxide semiconductor layer and a gate insulating layer, field effect mobility of the thin film transistor can be improved, and increase in off current can be suppressed. |
| US08633490B2 |
Organic electroluminescence display and manufacturing method thereof
An organic electroluminescence display including: a gate line disposed on a substrate; a data line crossing the gate line; a TFT connected to the gate and data lines; a capacitor connected to the TFT; and an OLED connected to the TFT. A gate electrode of the TFT and a lower electrode of the capacitor are patterned from a first layer. A gate insulating layer disposed on the gate electrode and an insulating island disposed on the gate line are patterned from a second layer. A semiconductor island disposed on the insulating island and an active layer disposed on the gate insulating layer are patterned from a third layer. An insulating layer is disposed on the TFTs, the capacitor, and between the semiconductor island and the data line. An upper electrode of the capacitor, source/drain electrodes of the TFT, and the data line are patterned from a fourth layer. |
| US08633489B2 |
Semiconductor device and method of manufacturing the same
Disclosed are a semiconductor device, which forms two insulation layers having different patterns by one mask process, and a method of manufacturing the same. In a semiconductor device having double insulation layers, a photosensitive material is included in an upper insulation layer. During a manufacture of the semiconductor device, the photosensitive material is used as a photo resist layer in order to reduce the number of masks. |
| US08633486B2 |
Transistor structure and light emitting apparatus
Disclosed is a transistor structure including: a first thin film transistor including, a first gate electrode; a first insulating film which covers the first gate electrode; and a first semiconductor film formed on the first insulating film in a position corresponding to the first gate electrode; and a second thin film transistor including, a second semiconductor film formed on the first insulating film; a second insulating film which covers the second semiconductor film; and a second gate electrode formed in a position corresponding to a channel portion of the second semiconductor film on the second insulating film, wherein the first semiconductor film and the second semiconductor film include a first portion on the first insulating film side and a second portion on the opposite surface side, and one of the first portion or the second portion has a higher degree of crystallization of silicon compared to the other. |
| US08633483B2 |
Recrystallization of semiconductor wafers in a thin film capsule and related processes
An original wafer, typically silicon, has the form of a desired end PV wafer. The original may be made by rapid solidification or CVD. It has small grains. It is encapsulated in a clean thin film, which contains and protects the silicon when recrystallized to create a larger grain structure. The capsule can be made by heating a wafer in the presence of oxygen, or steam, resulting in silicon dioxide on the outer surface, typically 1-2 microns. Further heating creates a molten zone in space, through which the wafer travels, resulting in recrystallization with a larger grain size. The capsule contains the molten material during recrystallization, and protects against impurities. Recrystallization may be in air. Thermal transfer through backing plates minimizes stresses and defects. After recrystallization, the capsule is removed. |
| US08633478B2 |
Use of ionomeric silicone thermoplastic elastomers in electronic devices
This invention relates to the use of a thermoplastic elastomer comprising at least one silicone ionomer in the formation of electronic devices. |
| US08633474B2 |
Photovoltaic device having transparent electrode formed with nanoparticles
A photovoltaic device is disclosed that includes a transparent front electrode formed by the self-assembly of conductive nanoparticles from an emulsion coated onto a substrate and dried. The nanoparticles self-assemble into a network-like pattern of conductive traces that define randomly-shaped transparent cells. The cells may be filled with various transparent filler materials and additional layers may be present in the device in addition to conventional components. Processes for forming the transparent electrode are also disclosed. |
| US08633471B2 |
Apparatus and methods for forming a modulation doped non-planar transistor
Embodiments of an apparatus and methods for providing three-dimensional complementary metal oxide semiconductor devices comprising modulation doped transistors are generally described herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed, which may include a modulation doped heterostructure, wherein the modulation doped heterostructure may comprise an active portion having a first bandgap and a delta doped portion having a second bandgap. |
| US08633461B2 |
Radiation-shielding assemblies and methods of using the same
In one characterization, the present invention relates to a radiation-shielding assembly for holding a container having a radioactive material disposed therein. The assembly may, at least in one regard, be referred to as an elution shield and/or a dispensing shield. The assembly includes a body at least partially defining a cavity. There is at least one opening through the body into the cavity. The assembly may include a cap that at least generally hinders escape of radiation from the assembly through the opening. The cap may be releasably attached to the body in one orientation and may establish non-attached engagement with the body in another orientation. The assembly may include an adjustable spacer system for adapting the assembly for use with containers having different heights. |
| US08633451B2 |
Ion sources, systems and methods
Ion sources, systems and methods are disclosed. In some embodiments, the ion sources, systems and methods can exhibit relatively little undesired vibration and/or can sufficiently dampen undesired vibration. This can enhance performance (e.g., increase reliability, stability and the like). |
| US08633448B1 |
Micro-machined gaseous radiation detectors
Micro-machined gaseous radiation detector that includes arrays of micro scale detector cells which have a small distance between the anode and cathode and require lower voltages. |
| US08633446B2 |
X-ray detector and X-ray image detecting method
An X-ray detector and a method of detecting an X-ray image. The method includes: during an offset adjustment, sequentially outputting first gate signals to a plurality of gate lines for turning on the switching devices; during an offset read out, sequentially outputting second gate signals to the plurality of gate lines for turning on the switching devices after a first window time; and during the offset read out, reading electrical signals output by the switching device. |
| US08633445B2 |
Multi-energy X-ray imaging
An imaging method includes obtaining a first image data for a subset of a target region, the subset of the target region having a first metallic object, obtaining a second image data for the target region, and using the first and second image data to determine a composite image. A imaging system includes a first detector configured to provide a first projection data using a first radiation having high energy, and a second detector configured to provide a second projection data using a second radiation having low energy, wherein the first detector has a first length, the second detector has a second length, and the first length is less than 75% of the second length. |
| US08633439B2 |
System and method for electromagnetic interference shielding for critical dimension-scanning electron microscope
System and method for EMI shielding for a CD-SEM are described. One embodiment is a scanning electron microscope (“SEM”) comprising an electron gun for producing an electron beam directed toward a sample; a secondary electron (“SE”) detector for detecting secondary electrons reflected from the sample in response to the electron beam; and a dual-layer shield disposed around and enclosing the SE detector. The shield comprises a magnetic shielding lamina layer and a metallic foil layer. |
| US08633437B2 |
Ultra-fast laser system
A laser system is provided which selectively excites Raman active vibrations in molecules. In another aspect of the present invention, the system includes a laser, pulse shaper and detection device. A further aspect of the present invention employs a femtosecond laser and binary pulse shaping (BPS). Still another aspect of the present invention uses a laser beam pulse, a pulse shaper and remote sensing. |
| US08633434B2 |
Apparatus and method for pulsed neutron generation including a high voltage power supply
An apparatus for irradiating an earth formation is disclosed. The apparatus includes: a carrier configured to be disposed in the formation; a neutron tube disposed at the carrier and located on an axis; and a high voltage power source disposed at the carrier and electrically connected to the neutron tube, the high voltage power source being offset from the axis. |
| US08633431B2 |
Image method and apparatus
Disclosed is an imaging sensor. The image sensor may comprise a plurality of pixels. At least one of the plurality of pixels may comprise a plurality of photo-diodes, wherein the plurality of photo-diodes share a portion of a detecting. The detecting circuit may comprise at least one of a reset transistor, a source follower, a selective transistor and a Floating Diffusion (FD) node. |
| US08633428B2 |
Scanning unit of a position measuring arrangement that includes a light source that provides information regarding an amplitude of a scanning signal
A scanning unit of a position measuring unit for scanning a scale, the scanning unit including a display unit having a light source. The scanning unit further including a regulating device for controlling an amplitude of an analog scanning signal of the scanning unit, wherein the regulating device triggers the light source to cause a change of an illumination state of the light source, wherein successive changes of the illumination state of the light source contain information regarding the amplitude of the analog scanning signal. |
| US08633419B2 |
Laser welding quality evaluation method and apparatus
A difference processing circuit receives input of welding images taken by a CCD camera in real time and then differentiates power monitoring images recorded in a memory from welding images to obtain difference processing reflected light images. Due to the difference processing performed by a difference processing circuit, foreign matter images included in welding images and power monitoring images are eliminated and the difference processing reflected light images that are obtained do not include any foreign matter images. A quality judgment device uses the difference processing reflected light images obtained by a difference processing circuit and conducts a quality judgment. As described above, since difference processing reflected light images do not include any foreign matter images, a quality judgment device does not receive any influence from the foreign matter that is adhered to the protective glass and can conduct an excellent evaluation of the welding quality. |
| US08633415B2 |
Plasma torch with electrode wear detection system
A plasma arc torch is provided that includes a wear stop designed to detect wear of an electrode and prevent the use of the electrode once the electrode has experienced a certain amount of wear. Either the electrode or the nozzle is movable with respect to the main torch body, and the movable component defines a projection. The wear stop is positioned a predetermined distance from a nozzle of the torch, such that prior to experiencing an excessive amount of wear, the electrode is able to contact the nozzle and initiate a pilot arc for starting a torch operation. Once the length of the electrode becomes shorter than a predetermined length due to wear, the projection of the electrode engages the wear stop, and the wear stop prevents the electrode from contacting the nozzle. In this way, an electrode that is excessively worn cannot be used in subsequent torch operations. |
| US08633414B2 |
Retract start plasma torch with reversible coolant flow
An improved plasma torch and method of starting the torch are provided. The torch may comprise a main torch body with an electrode assembly coupled to a piston therein. The piston and electrode assembly are moveable between a starting position whereby the electrode assembly contacts a nozzle, and an operating position whereby the electrode assembly does not contact the nozzle. The piston is moveable by directing fluid, which may comprise coolant, through the plasma torch either in a first direction which biases the piston to the starting position, or in an opposite second direction which biases the piston so as to retract the electrode assembly to the operating position. A reversing valve or reversible pump may be used to control the direction of the flow of the fluid. Thereby, the coolant supply may be used to both cool the torch and control the starting and operation of the torch. |
| US08633413B2 |
Switchgear assembly with a contact gap
A switchgear assembly has a contact gap and an insulating material nozzle. The insulating material nozzle at least partly encloses the contact gap. A nozzle channel for the insulating material nozzle opens with a outlet opening in a hot gas space. A deflector element is disposed within the hot gas space which defines a deflector channel. The deflector channel has a segment which has an expanding cross-section in the stream direction of a switching gas in the hot gas space. |
| US08633412B2 |
Switch device and method of assembling snap action mechanism
A switch device includes a housing having a receiving portion; an operation member that receives a pressing operation; a plurality of fixed contact points provided in the receiving portion side by side at predetermined intervals; a plurality of movable contact points having contact point portions that come into sliding contact with the fixed contact points; and a snap action mechanism that drives the movable contact points when the operation member is pressed to a predetermined position. |
| US08633410B2 |
Switch
A switch is coupled to a switch support and includes a push button, a lock assembly, a tab, and a hook. The lock assembly includes an operation ring, which is rotated about the button between an unlock position to permit actuation of the button and a lock state to prohibit actuation of the button, and a lock ring, which is rotated integrally with the operation ring. When the operation ring is located at the lock position, the hook and the tab are arranged at the same position in a circumferential direction, which creates interference between the hook and the tab and blocks actuation of the button. When the operation ring is located at the unlock position, the hook and the tab are separated from each other in the circumferential direction, which avoids interference between the hook and the tab and permits actuation of the button. |
| US08633405B2 |
Display panel and display device including the same
A display device comprises: a display panel including a first insulating substrate and a second insulating substrate that is arranged so as to deviate from the first insulating substrate; and an intermediate frame, wherein the intermediate frame includes: side walls that are arranged so as to correspond to four side surface of the display panel; a mounting portion which protrudes from the side walls inward and on which the first insulating substrate is mounted; and a supporting protrusion that protrudes from the mounting portion to the second insulating substrate and is arranged below the second insulating substrate and on the side of the first insulating substrate. |
| US08633403B2 |
Methods and apparatus for shielding circuitry from interference
This is directed to methods and apparatus for shielding a circuitry region of an electronic device from interference (e.g., EMI). A conductive dam may be formed about a periphery of the circuitry region. A non-conductive or electrically insulating fill may then be applied to the circuitry region within the dam. Next, a conductive cover may be applied above the fill. The cover may be electrically coupled to the dam. The dam may include two or more layers of conductive material stacked on top of one another. In some embodiments, the conductive cover may be pad printed or screen printed above the fill. In other embodiments, the conductive cover may be a conductive tablet that is melted above the fill. |
| US08633402B2 |
Low force deflection and corrosion resistant EMI gasket
An EMI shielding gasket having enhanced corrosion protection and force deflection is provided. The gasket has a body formed from an electrically conductive material with outwardly extending projections from one or both surface portions thereof. A non-conductive polymer gel is applied to the spaces between the projections for protection against corrosion. The gasket is particularly adapted for use in external aluminum aircraft surfaces which are exposed to harsh environmental conditions. |
| US08633401B2 |
Soldering pad
A pad includes a first mating section and a second mating section. The first mating section includes a first horizontal plane and a first inclined plane. The second mating section includes a second horizontal plane and a second inclined plane. The first mating section is a copper foil capable of being connected to a wire. The second mating section is made of insulating material. The first inclined plane and the second inclined plane are bonded together. |
| US08633397B2 |
Method of processing cavity of core substrate
A method of processing a cavity of a core substrate is disclosed. The method of processing a cavity of a core substrate in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention can include: forming a first processing area on one surface of a core substrate, the first processing area being demarcated by a circuit pattern; forming a second processing area on the other surface of the core substrate, the second processing area being demarcated by a circuit pattern; and processing a cavity by removing the entire first processing area from the one surface of the core substrate. |
| US08633391B2 |
Protective device
A device includes a cover that includes a base. The cover is configured to be positioned over a mount that couples a support structure of an electrical device to another element. The electrical device includes an energized terminal that is configured to connect to an electrical power system and a grounded terminal. The device also includes an insulating interface coupled to the base of the cover such that, when the cover is positioned over the mount, the interface contacts the support structure to substantially electrically insulate the mount. A system includes an electrical device, a support structure that holds the electrical device on the first side, a mount configured to couple the structure to another element, the mount being grounded during operation of the system, and a protective device positioned over the mount. |
| US08633390B2 |
Hookup stem and electric hookup
A hookup stem (48; 70) to implement an electric hookup (50; 60) of an electric heater of an injection molding nozzle (30), the hookup stem (48; 70) being designed in a manner that it can be affixed by means of at least one electrically conducting adhesion layer (52; 62; 64; 66) and/or by a contact paste (52) to the heater, the hookup stem comprising a shank element (54; 72), and a connecting segment (56; 74) coming into contact with the minimum of one adhesion layer (52; 62; 64; 66) or the contact paste (52). |
| US08633389B2 |
Sealing arrangement for use in a cable enclosure port
A cable enclosure sealing arrangement has a seal body with one or more cavities extending the full length of the sealing member and a slit extending from each cavity to the exterior of the sealing body such that the edges of each slit may be pulled apart to expose the cavity and permit insertion of a cable. The cavity may include a profiled interior surface having inclined or curved surface portions projecting into the cavity the inclination or curvature of the profiled surface portions being in opposite senses at opposite end zone sections of the cavity. The arrangement has a compression system for compressing the sealing member to effect sealing along the longitudinal slit. A tie rod extending through a central portion of the body and connecting two end plates can be used for this purpose. |
| US08633385B2 |
Weatherproof cover having bidirectional hinge
A weatherproof cover assembly includes a base and a cover where the cover is coupled to the base by a bidirectional hinge to allow the cover to pivot in two directions. The cover assembly can be mounted in a horizontal or vertical orientation where the bidirectional hinge allows the cover to close downwardly when the assembly is mounted in either orientation. The bidirectional hinge has a first leg pivotally connected to the cover and second leg pivotally connected to the base where the first and second legs are perpendicular to each other. |
| US08633382B2 |
Cable joint
A joint for a paper-insulated lead covered cable (PILC) including paper insulation impregnated with oil, the joint comprising a first PILC and a retaining jacket having a hollow interior, the first PILC having an inner conducting element that is conductively secured to an inner conducting element of a further cable within the hollow interior of the retaining jacket, the joint further comprising a sealant forming a sealant layer within the hollow interior of the retaining jacket and a retaining structure positioned within the sealant layer. |
| US08633380B2 |
Photoelectric conversion element comprising binuclear ruthenium complex dye having a substituted bipyridyl group, and photochemical cell
The present invention relates to a binuclear ruthenium complex dye having a higher absorption coefficient and capable of absorbing light of longer wavelength for realizing a photoelectric conversion element and a photochemical cell which may convert solar light into electricity over a wide wavelength range and exhibit high photoelectric conversion efficiency; and a binuclear ruthenium complex dye for realizing a photoelectric conversion element and a photochemical cell which may have high durability. |
| US08633378B2 |
Method of setting conditions for film deposition, photovoltaic device, and production process, production apparatus and test method for same
A photovoltaic device having a high conversion efficiency is produced in a stable manner. The conditions for film deposition of a microcrystalline silicon photovoltaic layer (4) in a photovoltaic device are set based on the Raman peak ratio within a Raman spectrum obtained at the substrate (1) side of the microcrystalline silicon layer (4), and the Raman peak ratio within a Raman spectrum obtained at the opposite side to the substrate (1). |
| US08633375B2 |
Solar cell and method for Manufacturing the same
A solar cell and method of manufacturing the same includes a semiconductor substrate having a textured surface and including a plurality of recess portions and a plurality of flat portions, an emitter layer in the plurality of recess portions, a first doping region in at least one of the plurality of flat portions, and doped with a first conductive type impurity selected from one of p-type and n-type impurities, a second doping region in at least one of the plurality of flat portions, and doped with a second conductive type impurity selected from one of p-type and n-type impurities that differs from the first conductive type impurity, and first and second electrodes electrically connected to the first and second doping regions, respectively. The distance between the emitter layer and the first doping region is different from the distance between the emitter layer and the second doping region. |
| US08633372B2 |
Light recapturing system and method
A system for recapturing light emitted by a light source and converting that light into electrical current which can be used to power the same light source or other devices. An exemplary embodiment may use photovoltaic cells to recapture light from ceiling lights and convert it into a source of power for the ceiling light. Another embodiment may be a tanning bed that recaptures light using photovoltaic cells. Some embodiments may recapture light from multiple lighting fixtures. An exemplary embodiment may include a computer and battery for storing energy produced by the photovoltaic cells. Another exemplary embodiment is a method of recapturing light emitted by a light source and converting the light into energy which can be used to power electrical activities. |
| US08633371B2 |
Device and method for generating electrical power
A device and method for generating electricity. The device includes a heat source, a cold source, and a thermoelectric generating plate, having a first side and an opposed side. When heat is introduced to the heat source, heat flows across the thermoelectric generating plate and electricity is generated. In the present arrangement, because the hot and cold sources are in thermal communication with opposed sides of the thermoelectric generating plate, the thermal gradient or rate of heat flow across the thermoelectric generating plate is maximized. Thus, because the rate of heat flow is increased, the rate at which electricity is generated is also increased, and the size of the device is maintained, or minimized. |
| US08633369B2 |
Method and system for remote concert using the communication network
A method and system for remote concert ensemble using a communication network is disclosed. The remote concert system comprises a server; and a plurality of terminals connected to the server, wherein the terminals transmit a MIDI signal to the server after generating the MIDI signal in accordance with the input of a recital signal, and the server transmits a received MIDI signal to the plurality of terminals synchronically and each of the terminals outputs the MIDI signal received from the server via a corresponding sound source. |
| US08633368B2 |
Systems and methods for the creation and playback of animated, interpretive, musical notation and audio synchronized with the recorded performance of an original artist
A music application guides a user with some musical experience through the steps of creating and editing a musical enhancement file that enhances and plays in synchronicity with an audio signal of an original artist's recorded performance. This enables others, perhaps with lesser musical ability than the original artist, to play-along with the original artist by following melodic, chordal, rhythmic, and verbal prompts. The music application accounts for differences in the timing of the performance from a standard tempo by guiding the user through the process of creating a tempo map for the performance and by associating the tempo map with MIDI information of the enhancement file. Enhancements may contain MIDI information, audio signal information, and/or video signal information which may be played back in synchronicity with the recorded performance to provide an aural and visual aid to others playing-along who may have less musical experience. |
| US08633367B2 |
Variable beater for drums
The invention is directed to a beater for operating a drum, the beater comprising the following: a main body (10) having a beating part (11) which is removably attached to the main body (10); a shaft (20) on which the main body (10) is mounted, at least one recess (12) being formed in the main body (10) for accommodating a bulk body, wherein one side of the recess is delimited by a bottom surface (11a) of the beating part (11) so that the recess (12) is accessible from outside when the beating part (11) is removed. A pivot bearing of the main body (10) at the shaft (20) can be realized by a friction surface between the main body (10) and the shaft (20). |
| US08633366B2 |
Drum pedal cover
A drum pedal cover for attachment to a drum pedal surface is hereby disclosed. Single or multiple layers of padded foam material are employed, which are attached to the drum pedal surface. The padded material is used to reduce shock and provide comfort to the user during drumming. The drum pedal cover is attached to the drum pedal surface by employing the use of several strap assemblies, which are woven through apertures in the drum pedal cover. The strap assembly winds underneath the drum pedal's surface and is attached from the underside of the drum pedal. The strap assembly enables the user to rapidly employ and deploy the invention. |
| US08633363B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH471541
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH471541. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH471541, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH471541 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 CH471541. |
| US08633362B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH155414
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH155414. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH155414, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH155414 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 CH155414. |
| US08633361B1 |
Maize variety hybrid X00A038
A novel maize variety designated X00A038 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing hybrid maize variety X00A038 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X00A038 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X00A038, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X00A038. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X00A038. |
| US08633355B2 |
Modification of plant flavonoid metabolism
The present invention relates to nucleic acids encoding flavonoid biosynthetic enzymes, flavonoid-regulating transcription factors and a flavonoid-specific membrane transporter in plants, and the use thereof for the modification of flavonoid biosynthesis in plants. The present invention also relates to constructs and vectors including such nucleic acids, and related polypeptides. More particularly, the protein involved in flavonoid biosynthesis is selected from the group consisting of: MADS box factor, WRKY box factor, MYC factor, TT1, HLH factor, MYB factor, FMT, UG3E, GST, OMT, RT, CYTb5, laccase, and ABC transporter proteins, and functionally active fragments and variants thereof. |
| US08633353B2 |
Plants with improved water deficit and cold tolerance
The present invention provides nucleic acid constructs, including plasmids, expression vectors or expression cassettes comprising polynucleotides encoding CCAAT-binding transcription factor polypeptides that have the ability to increase a plant's tolerance to abiotic stress. Polynucleotides encoding functional CCAAT-binding transcription factors were incorporated into expression vectors, introduced into plants, and ectopically expressed. The encoded polypeptides of the invention significantly increased the cold and water deficit tolerance of the transgenic plants, as compared to tolerance to these stresses of control plants. |
| US08633352B1 |
Maize variety hybrid X90A808
A novel maize variety designated X90A808 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing hybrid maize variety X90A808 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X90A808 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X90A808, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X90A808. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X90A808. |
| US08633351B2 |
Genetic loci associated with cell wall digestibility in maize
The invention relates to methods and compositions for identifying maize plants that have increased cell wall digestibility. The methods use molecular markers to identify and select plants with increased cell wall digestibility or to identify and counter-select plants with decreased cell wall digestibility. Maize plants generated by the methods of the invention are also a feature of the invention. |
| US08633350B2 |
Brilliant white cauliflower
The present invention includes cauliflowers with enhanced whiteness and methods for obtaining such cauliflowers. The present invention also provides reagents that can be used in methods for obtaining such cauliflowers. |
| US08633349B2 |
Methods for making plants resistant to fungal pathogens
This invention relates to polynucleotide sequences encoding genes that can confer resistance to the plant pathogen Colletotrichum, which causes anthracnose stalk rot, leaf blight and top dieback in corn and other cereals. It further relates to plants and seeds of plants carrying chimeric genes comprising said polynucleotide sequences, which enhance or confer resistance to the plant pathogen Colletotrichum, and processes of making said plants and seeds. The invention further presents sequences that can be used as molecular markers that in turn can be used to identify the region of interest in corn lines resulting from new crosses and to quickly and efficiently introgress the genes from corn lines carrying said genes into other corn lines that do not carry said genes, in order to make them resistant to Colletotrichum and resistant to stalk rot. |
| US08633348B2 |
Genetic vasectomy by overexpression of PRML-EGFP fusion protein in spermatids
The present invention provides a genetically-modified non-human animal whose somatic and germ cells contain an exogenous gene encoding a recombinant fusion protein, wherein the presence, and expression, of said recombinant fusion protein renders said genetically-modified non-human animal sterile. Tools for generating such sterile genetically-modified non-human animal as well as methods of use thereof are also provided. |
| US08633346B2 |
Process for preparing an alkylate
The present invention provides process for preparing an alkylate comprising contacting in a reaction zone a hydrocarbon mixture comprising at least an isoparaffin and an olefin with an acidic ionic liquid catalyst under alkylation conditions to obtain an alkylate-comprising effluent, in which process: —solids are formed in the reaction zone; —a solids-comprising effluent comprising hydrocarbons and acidic ionic liquid is withdrawn from the reaction zone; and—at least part of the solids-comprising effluent is treated to remove at least part of the solids to obtain a solids-depleted effluent. The invention further provides a process for treating an acidic ionic liquid comprising at least 0.1 wt % of solids based on the total weight of the acidic ionic liquid, wherein at least part of the solids are removed. |
| US08633344B2 |
Aromatic transformation using UZM-39 aluminosilicate zeolite
A new family of coherently grown composites of TUN and IMF zeotypes has been synthesized and shown to be effective catalysts for aromatic transformation reactions. These zeolites are represented by the empirical formula. NanMmk+TtAl1-xExSiyOz where “n” is the mole ratio of Na to (Al+E), M represents at least one meta, “m” is the mole ratio of M to (Al+E), “k” is the average charge of the metal or metals M, T is the organic structure directing agent or agents, “t” is the mole ratio of N from the organic structure directing agent or agents to (Al+E), and E is a framework element such as gallium. The process involves contacting at least a first aromatic with the coherently grown composites of TUN and IMF zeotypes to produce at least a second aromatic. |
| US08633343B2 |
Transalkylation of polycyclohexylbenzenes
In a process for the transalkylation of polycyclohexylbenzenes, a feed containing at least one polycyclohexylbenzene is contacted with benzene under transalkylation conditions with a catalyst comprising a zeolite USY having a silica to alumina molar ratio in excess of 10 to convert at least part of said polycyclohexylbenzene to cyclohexylbenzene. |
| US08633342B2 |
Process for producing alkylaromatic compounds
In a process for alkylation of an alkylatable aromatic compound to produce a monoalkylated aromatic compound, a first feed stream comprising fresh alkylatable aromatic compound is passed to a first reaction zone which comprises a transalkylation catalyst and which also receives a second feed stream comprising polyalkylated aromatic compounds. The first and second feed streams are contacted with the transalkylation catalyst in the first reaction zone under conditions to transalkylate the polyalkylated aromatic compounds with the alkylatable aromatic compound to produce the desired monoalkylated aromatic compound. A first effluent stream comprising unreacted alkylatable aromatic compound and the monoalkylated aromatic compound is removed from the first reaction zone and passed to a fractionation system to separate the first effluent stream into a first light fraction comprising the unreacted alkylatable aromatic compound and a first heavy fraction comprising the monoalkylated aromatic compound. At least part of one or more impurities in the fresh feed stream are removed in the first reaction zone. |
| US08633340B2 |
Process for the production of chlorinated and fluorinated alkanes and alkenes in the presence of a catalyst
The invention provides a process for preparing 1,1,1-trifluoro-2,3-dichloropropane (243db), which process comprises contacting 3,3,3-trifluoropropene (1243zf) with chlorine in the presence of a catalyst, wherein the catalyst comprises activated carbon, alumina and/or an oxide of a transition metal. |
| US08633339B2 |
Blowing agents for forming foam comprising unsaturated fluorocarbons
Disclosed herein are blowing agents comprising fluorocarbons and/or hydrofluorocarbons useful in foamable compositions. Also disclosed are methods for forming a foam comprising the aforementioned blowing agents. |
| US08633331B2 |
Nanocomposite materials comprising metal-organic-framework units and methods of using same
The present invention relates to nanocomposite materials comprising: graphite-based material dispersed among transition metal-organic framework (MOF) units, wherein the graphite-based material is chemically linked to MOF units; wherein the graphite-based material is present in the range of about 5 wt. % to about 60 wt. % of the composite material. |
| US08633321B2 |
Synthesis of (4-fluoro-3-piperidin-4-yl-benzyl)-carbamic acid tert-butyl ester and intermediates thereof
The present invention is an improved method for the preparation of (4-fluoro-3-pyridin-4-yl-benzyl)-carbamic acid tert-butyl ester, compound of formula I. The invention is directed to a method of synthesis for the compound of formula I in three steps, comprising formation of 5-((tert-butoxycarbonyl)aminomethyl)-2-fluorobenzeneboronic acid (compound 11), reaction of compound 11 under Suzuki coupling conditions to yield (4-fluoro-2-pyridin-4-yl-benzyl)-carbamic acid tert-butyl ester and selective hydrogenation of the aforementioned product under hydrogenation conditions yields compound I. The invention is also directed to the intermediates 5-((tert-butoxycarbonyl)amino-methyl)-2-fluorobenzeneboronic acid (compound 11), and (4-fluoro-3-pyridin-4-yl-benzyl)-carbamic acid tert-butyl ester (compound 13). |
| US08633320B2 |
Process for preparing bromo-substituted quinolines
Disclosed are methods for the preparation of bromo-substituted quinolines of the formula (I) where R is aryl, heteroaryl, alkyl, alkenyl or alkynyl, which are useful as intermediates in the preparation of agents for the treatment of hepatitis C viral (HCV) infections: Formula (I). |
| US08633319B2 |
7-(1H-pyrazol-4-yl)-1,6-naphthyridine compounds as Syk inhibitors
The present invention relates to a compound of formula (I): or a salt thereof; which is an inhibitor of spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) and therefore potentially of use in treating diseases resulting from inappropriate activation of mast and/or basophil cells, macrophages, and B-cells and related inflammatory responses and tissue damage, for instance inflammatory disease and/or allergic disorders, and in cancer therapy, specifically heme malignancies, chronic spontaneous urticaria and autoimmune conditions. |
| US08633317B2 |
Crystalline salts of thieno[3,2-c]pyridine kinase inhibitors with improved cpy safety profile
Salts of N-(4-{4-amino-7-[1-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1H-pyrazol-4-yl]thieno[3,2-c]pyridin-3-yl}phenyl)-N′-(3-fluorophenyl)urea and crystalline forms thereof are suitable pharmaceutical ingredients for pharmaceutical compositions useful in the treatment of disease, for example, cancer. |
| US08633314B2 |
Forms of a multicyclic compound
The present invention provides alternative forms of Compound I, processes to reproducibly make them and methods of treating patients using them. |
| US08633307B2 |
Dark quenchers for donor-acceptor energy transfer
The present invention provides a family of dark quenchers, termed Black Hole Quenchers (“BHQs”), that are efficient quenchers of excited state energy but which are themselves substantially non-fluorescent. Also provided are methods of using the BHQs, probes incorporating the BHQs and methods of using the probes. |
| US08633306B2 |
SiRNA targeting histamine receptor H1
Efficient sequence specific gene silencing is possible through the use of siRNA technology. By selecting particular siRNAs by rational design, one can maximize the generation of an effective gene silencing reagent, as well as methods for silencing genes. Methods, compositions, and kits generated through rational design of siRNAs are disclosed. |
| US08633305B2 |
Compositions of, and methods for, alpha-1 anti trypsin Fc fusion molecules
A novel method of treating and preventing bacterial diseases is provided. In particular, the present invention relates to compositions and methods for inhibition of Gram negative, Gram positive and acid fast bacilli in general and tuberculosis (TB), mycobacterium avium complex (MAC), and anthrax in particular. Thus, the invention relates to modulation of cellular activities, including macrophage activity, and the like. More particularly, the present invention relates to the inhibitory compounds comprising naturally occurring and man-made inhibitors of serine. |
| US08633303B2 |
Heterobifunctional pan-selectin inhibitors
Compounds and methods are provided for modulating in vitro and in vivo processes mediated by selectin binding. More specifically, selectin modulators and their use are described, wherein the selectin modulators that modulate (e.g., inhibit or enhance) a selectin-mediated function comprise particular glycomimetics alone or linked to a member of a class of compounds termed BASAs (Benzyl Amino Sulfonic Acids) or a member of a class of compounds termed BACAs (Benzyl Amino Carboxylic Acids). |
| US08633302B2 |
Variable tangential flow filtration
The current invention reports a method for concentrating an immunoglobulin solution by tangential flow filtration wherein the transmembrane pressure and the cross-flow are variable. |
| US08633301B2 |
Antitumor combinations containing antibodies recognizing specifically CD38 and vincristine
Pharmaceutical composition comprising an antibody specifically recognizing CD38 and vincristine. |
| US08633298B2 |
Carrier for separation, method for separation of compound, and method for synthesis of peptide using the carrier
A carrier for use for separation purpose and a method for separation of a compound enable a chemical reaction to be performed in a liquid phase, a compound of interest to be separated from the liquid phase after the completion of the reaction readily, the separated compound to be evaluated by structural analysis or the like while the compound is being bound to the carrier, and the compound to be separated from the carrier readily. A carrier for separation is also provided which has a reaction site capable of reacting with other compound(s) on a benzene ring, and a long-chain group having a specified carbon atom(s) at each of the ortho-position and the para-position of the reaction site through an oxygen atom. |
| US08633295B2 |
Blend of polylactic acid resin and copolyester resin, and molded product using same
A blend of polylactic acid resin and copolyester resin and a molded article using the same having superior impact resistance and heat resistance are disclosed. The blend of polylactic acid resin and copolyester resin includes: 5 to 95 weight % of polylactic acid resin; and 5 to 95 weight % of copolyester resin which is a copolymerization product of an acid component including terephthalic acid and a diol component including 5 to 99 mol % of 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol and 1 to 60 mol % of isosorbide(bio monomer), and has a repeated structure of an acid moiety derived from the acid component and a diol moiety derived from the diol component. |
| US08633289B2 |
Formation of [2,2]paracyclophane and related compounds and methods for the formation of polymers from cyclophanes
An improved process and method for the formation of stable intermediate cyclophanes. Embodiments describe a general method for the production of substituted and unsubstituted cyclophanes. The components include a pyrolysis reaction tube that may be electrically heated into which a flowing stream of nitrous oxide with xylene vapor in an optional inert carrier gas at atmospheric pressure. The exit gas is condensed resulting in the deposition of [2,2′]paracyclophane. Additionally a process and method whereby the reactive intermediates of the reaction described above can be directly deposited and polymerized at atmospheric pressures or thereabout is disclosed. |
| US08633286B2 |
Catalyst compositions comprising support materials having an improved particle-size distribution
A catalyst composition that includes a support material having an improved particle-size distribution is provided. Processes for producing polyolefin composition also are provided. Polymers and films also are provided. An example of a catalyst composition is a supported multi-transition-metal catalyst composition that includes: (a) at least two catalyst components selected from the group consisting of: a nonmetallocene catalyst component and a metallocene catalyst component; (b) a support material that has a D50 of less than about 30 microns and a particle size distribution having a D90/D10 ratio of less than about 6; and (c) an activator. |
| US08633284B2 |
Tailorable polyimide prepolymer blends, crosslinked polymides and articles formed therefrom
A polyimide prepolymer blend including a first prepolymer component comprising a first polyimide oligomer having the formula E1-[R1]n-E1 and a second prepolymer component selected from M1, a second polyimide oligomer having the formula E2-[R2]n-E2, and combinations thereof; where R1 and R2 independently comprise: where n is from about 1 to about 5, V is a tetravalent substituted or unsubstituted aromatic monocyclic or polycyclic linking structure, R is a substituted or unsubstituted divalent organic radical. E1 and E2 independently comprise crosslinkable functional groups. M1 comprises a mixture of monomeric compounds including a diamine component, a dianhydride component, and an end group component. The prepolymer blend, prior to cure, provides at least one predetermined prepolymer blend property; and when cured under suitable cure conditions, the prepolymer blend provides a crosslinked polyimide matrix having at least one predetermined crosslinked matrix property. |
| US08633282B2 |
Metal removing agent and metal removing filter
A metal removing agent has a capability of removing metal clusters and metal ions from fuel with high efficiency. The metal removing agent is made of resin having anionic functional group of a functional group density within a range of 2 to 25 mmol/ml. The anionic functional group contained in the metal removing agent is at least one selected from sulfonate group, carboxyl group, sulfate group, thiol group, phosphate group, phosphonate group, iminodiacetic acid group, and aminophosphate group. A metal removing filter has a container and the metal removing agent. The container accommodates the metal removing agent. |
| US08633275B2 |
Rubber composition for breaker and pneumatic tire
The present invention provides a rubber composition for a breaker, which achieves both good fuel economy and good breaking performance while simultaneously having excellent processability, and a pneumatic tire including a breaker produced using the rubber composition. The present invention relates to a rubber composition for a breaker, including: a rubber component that contains a modified natural rubber, the rubber having a phosphorus content of 200 ppm or less; and carbon black and/or a white filler, wherein the rubber composition contains 5% by mass or more of the modified natural rubber based on 100% by mass of the rubber component. |
| US08633274B2 |
Aqueous dispersions of reactive gluing agents, method for the production and the use thereof
Aqueous dispersions of reactive sizes comprise cationic polymers comprising vinylamine units as a protective colloid, the protective colloid comprising less than 0.0001% by weight, based on the protective colloid, of diketenes. |
| US08633270B2 |
Dispersion for applying a metal layer
The present invention relates to a dispersion for the application of a metal layer on a non-electrically-conductive substrate comprising an organic binder component, a metal component, and also a solvent component. The invention further relates to processes for the production of the dispersion, processes for the production of a non-structured or structured metal layer with the aid of the dispersion, and also to the resultant substrate surfaces and their use. |
| US08633269B2 |
Play modeling dough
The present invention is directed toward a play composition including a polymeric binder and oil. In an embodiment, the binder is a hydrogenated triblock copolymer including styrene. The oil is a mineral oil. The composition may further include a plasticizer, a release agent, and one or more fillers. |
| US08633267B2 |
Liquid phosphite compositions having different alkyl groups
A composition comprising a mixture of at least two different alkylaryl phosphites, wherein some alkyl groups have a different number of carbon atoms than other alkyl groups and wherein the mixture is a liquid at ambient conditions. |
| US08633266B2 |
Tin-free stabilizer composition
A stabilizer composition for halogenated polymers comprising at least one zinc salt of a carboxylic acid and/or of a β-diketone, comprising a metal salt of the carboxylic acid selected from the group of the following metals: Li, Na, K, Mg, Ca, Al and Zn; a metal salt of the β-diketone selected from the group of the following metals: Li, Na, K, Mg, Ca, Al and Zn; and an amino alcohol derivative. |
| US08633262B2 |
Haze reduction for blends of aromatic-aliphatic polyesters with aliphatic polyesters and antimicrobial additives
This invention relates to a polymer blend comprising: (A) about 1% by weight to about 99% by weight of at least one polymer (A) comprising terephthalic acid residues, 2,2,4,4-tetramethyl-1,3-cyclobutanediol residues; and 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol residues; (B) about 1% by weight to about 99% by weight of at least one polymer (B) comprising 1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid residues and 1,4-cyclohexanedimethanol residues, and (C) about 0.01% by weight to about 20% by weight of at least one antimicrobial agent; said weight percentages being based on the total weight of the polymer blend. |
| US08633261B2 |
Polymer composites having particles with mixed organic modifications
The present invention relates to polymer composites prepared from a host polymer and particles. Specifically, this invention is concerned with the organic modification of the particles. More specifically, the particles are organically modified with at least two organic modifiers that are different and have specific chemical and physical properties. |
| US08633258B2 |
D1492 liquid BAPO photoinitiator and its use in radiation curable compositions
The invention relates to a liquid bis(acyl)phosphine oxide of formula (I): wherein R is C1-C18 alkyl, and wherein R is optionally substituted as described herein. The invention also relates to radiation curable compositions comprising liquid bis(acyl)phosphine oxide of formula (I). |
| US08633257B2 |
Bio-based foam from natural oils
The invention relates to foam derived from natural oils, e.g. plant and animal oils. The oils are functionalized to allow for the preparation of foams with desired chemical and physical properties, such as density and robustness. The foam may contain a triglyceride having a first set of functional groups, and a second compound or chain extender (e.g., a second triglyceride, a fatty acid or polyethylene glycol) having a second set of functional groups capable of reacting with the first set of functional groups to form a covalent bond. |
| US08633254B2 |
Preparation of gels derived from carboxymethyl cellulose alkali metal salt
A method of preparing a gel from carboxymethyl cellulose alkali metal salt, which is an anionic cellulose derivative, by using acid or acid solution. To increase the strength and the elasticity of a gel, a water-insoluble metal compound or organic reinforcement is added when mixing. The obtained gel is one of environmentally friendly type gels because the raw material is derived from plant. |
| US08633250B2 |
Cell repair and regeneration by suramin and related polysulfonated napthylureas
Disclosed herein are compositions and methods for promoting the repair and regeneration of injured tissues, such as injuries resulting from ischemic damage. |
| US08633245B2 |
PAI-1 inhibitor
The compound represented by the following formula (I) and the like have PAI-1 inhibition activity;wherein: R1 represents a C6-10 aryl group which may be substituted or the like; T represents a single bond or the like; m represents 0 or 1; when m is 0, G represents —N—C(═O)—CO2H or the like; when m is 1, G represents an oxygen atom or the like; R2 represents a C6-10 aryl group which may be substituted or the like; E represents the following formula (II) wherein one of R31, R32, R33 and R34 represents the formula R1-T-, each of the other three independently represents a hydrogen atom or the like, and R35 represents the formula —X—Y′, a hydrogen atom or the like; X represents —CH2— or the like; Y′ represents a carboxy group or the like; M represents a single bond or the like. |
| US08633237B2 |
Indane derivatives
The present invention relates to anindane derivative according to formula I wherein the variables are defined as in the specification, or to a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof. The present invention also relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising one or more of said indane derivatives and to their use in therapy, for instance in the treatment or prevention of psychiatric diseases where an enhancement of synaptic responses mediated by AMPA receptors is required, including schizophrenia, depression and Alzheimer's disease. |
| US08633229B2 |
Pharmaceutical composition having dopaminergic activity
The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition having dopaminergic activity and other related pharmaceutical activities comprising trigonelline or its derivative(s) and 4-hydroxyisoleucine or its derivative(s), optionally along with excipients(s); a process of preparing a pharmaceutical composition comprising trigonelline or its derivative(s) and 4-hydroxyisoleucine or its derivative(s), optionally along with excipients(s), wherein the process comprising steps of: (a) extracting a clear solution containing trigonelline and 4-hydroxyisoleucine from plant source; and (b) optionally precipitating derivative(s) of trigonelline and 4-hydroxyisoleucine from the clear solution and obtaining said composition; and an in-vitro method to increase levels of dopamine or to inhibit prolactin by allowing composition comprising trigonelline or its derivative(s) and 4-hydroxyisoleucine or its derivative(s) to bind to cell receptors. |
| US08633228B2 |
Amide derivative, pest control agent containing the amide derivative, and pest controlling method
A pest control agent containing a compound represented by the following Formula (1), wherein A represents a carbon atom, a nitrogen atom, or the like, K represents a non-metal atom group necessary for forming a cyclic linking group derived from a 5- or 6-membered aromatic ring, in combination with A and two carbon atoms to which A bonds, X represents a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, or the like, n represents an integer of from 0 to 4, T represents —C(═G1)-Q1 (wherein G1 and G2 represent an oxygen atom or the like, Q1 represents a phenyl group which may have a substituent, a heterocyclic group which may have a substituent, or the like), or the like, Q2 represents a phenyl group or the like, G3 represents an oxygen atom or the like, and R1 and R2 each independently represent a hydrogen atom, a C1-C6 alkyl group, or a group represented by -L-D, or the like (provided that at least either R1 or R2 represents a group represented by -L-D); as an active ingredient exhibits an excellent effect. |
| US08633226B2 |
Piperidinyl derivative as a modulator of chemokine receptor activity
The present application describes the compound of formula (I): or stereoisomers or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. In addition, methods of treating and preventing inflammatory diseases such as asthma and allergic diseases, as well as autoimmune pathologies such as rheumatoid arthritis and arthrosclerosis using the compound of the invention are disclosed. |
| US08633225B2 |
Piperidinium compounds and cosmetic compositions containing them
Cosmetic or dermatological compositions which comprise at least one piperidinium salt, preferably a 4-[(2-cyclopentyl-2-hydroxyphenylacetyl)oxy]-1,1-dimethyl-piperidinium salt, and the use thereof, particularly as antiperspirants. This Abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way. |
| US08633222B2 |
Arylvinylazacycloalkane compounds and methods of preparation and use thereof
Novel vinylazacycloalkane compounds of Formula (I) are disclosed. The compounds are ligands of various nAChRs. The compounds and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts can be used to prepare pharmaceutical compositions and/or medicaments intended to prevent or treat disorders associated with dysfunction of nAChRs, especially within the central nervous system or the gastrointestinal system. Examples of types of disorders that can be treated include neurodegenerative disorders, including central nervous system disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, cognitive disorders, motor disorders such as Parkinson's disease, drug addiction, behavioral disorders and inflammatory disorders within the gastrointestinal system. The compounds can also serve as analgesics in the treatment of acute, chronic or recurrent pain. |
| US08633219B2 |
Combination therapy
The present invention relates to a combination therapy for treating an HIV infection or inhibiting integrase comprising (S)-6-(3-Chloro-2-fluorobenzyl)-1-(1-hydroxymethyl-2-methylpropyl)-7-methoxy-4-oxo-1,4-dihydroquinoline-3-carboxylic acid (“Compound A”) or a pharmaceutically acceptable solvate or salt thereof in combination with at least one other anti-HIV agent. In some embodiments of the present invention, the other anti-HIV agents are chosen from reverse transcriptase inhibitors and protease inhibitors. In certain embodiments of the present invention, the other anti-HIV agents are chosen from AZT, 3TC, PMPA, efavirenz, indinavir, nelfinavir, a combination of AZT/3TC, and a combination of PMPA/3TC. Since Compound A has a high inhibitory activity specific for integrases, when used in combinations with other anti-HIV agents it can provide a combination therapy with fewer side effects for humans. |
| US08633217B2 |
Crystal forms of kinase inhibitors
Citrate salts of N-(4-{4-amino-7-[1-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1H-pyrazol-4-yl]thieno[3,2-c]pyridin-3-yl}phenyl)-N′-(3-fluorophenyl)urea and crystalline forms thereof are suitable pharmaceutical ingredients for pharmaceutical compositions useful in the treatment of disease, for example, cancer. |
| US08633215B2 |
Thienyl-and furanyl-isoquinolinones and methods for using them
The present invention relates to substituted thienyl- and furanyl-isoquinolinones that act, for example, as modulators of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP). The present invention also relates to processes for the preparation of substituted thienyl and furanyl-isoquinolinones and to their use in treating various diseases and disorders. |
| US08633214B2 |
Spiro (piperidine-4,2′-pyrrolidine)-1-(3,5-trifluoromethylphenyl) methylcarboxamides as NK1 tachikynin receptor antagonists
Compounds of formula (I) or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof processes for their preparation, compositions containing them, and uses thereof in the treatment of diseases and conditions for which antagonism of NK1 is beneficial. |
| US08633211B2 |
Bicyclic organic compounds suitable for the treatment of inflammatory or allergic conditions
A compound of formula (I): in free or salt form, wherein A, R1, R3, Qa, Qb and Q are as defined herein, for the treatment of a disease mediated by the S1P2 or S1P3 receptor, such as inflammatory or obstructive airways disease. |
| US08633210B2 |
Triazole compounds useful as protein kinase inhibitors
This invention describes novel triazole compounds of formula IX: wherein Z1 is nitrogen or CR9 and Z2 is nitrogen or CH, provided that at least one of Z1 and Z2 is nitrogen; G is Ring C or Ring D; Ring C is selected from a phenyl, pyridinyl, pyrimidinyl, pyridazinyl, pyrazinyl, or 1,2,4-triazinyl ring, wherein said Ring C has one or two ortho substituents independently selected from —R1; Ring D is a 5-7 membered monocyclic ring or 8-10 membered bicyclic ring selected from aryl, heteroaryl, heterocyclyl or carbocyclyl; Rx and Ry are independently selected from T-R3, or Rx and Ry are taken together with their intervening atoms to form a fused ring; R1, R3, and T are as described in the specification. The compounds are useful as protein kinase inhibitors, especially as inhibitors of GSK-3 and Aurora, for treating diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and Alzheimer's disease. |
| US08633200B2 |
Inhibitors of human immunodeficiency virus replication
The disclosure generally relates to compounds of formula I, including compositions and methods for treating human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. The disclosure provides novel inhibitors of HIV, pharmaceutical compositions containing such compounds, and methods for using these compounds in the treatment of HIV infection. |
| US08633195B1 |
Method of inhibiting apolipoprotein-E expression comprising administering a triarylmethyl amine compound
This invention offers an effective method of inhibiting the expression of apolipoprotein E by mammalian cells. Apolipoprotein E is a protein that plays a significant role in the development of Alzheimer's Disease in humans. The method comprises administering an effective amount of a triarylmethyl amine compound having the general formula: wherein the R1 group may comprise acyclic amines and aliphatic amines. The R2 group may comprise one of three aryl varieties: aryl, substituted aryl, or heterocycle. Triarylamine compounds inhibit apolipoprotein E expression in mammalian cells. In one aspect of the invention the mammalian cells may be human cells, and more specifically may be human brain cells. |
| US08633194B2 |
Pharmaceutical composition of piperazine derivatives
The present invention relates to a liquid composition containing an active substance belonging to the family of substituted benzhydryl piperazines with reduced amounts of preservatives. |
| US08633188B2 |
Aminodihydrothiazine derivatives
A composition having BACE 1 inhibitory activity containing a compound represented by the general formula (I): wherein ring A is an optionally substituted carbocyclic group or an optionally substituted heterocyclic group; E is lower alkylene; X is S, O, or NR1; R1 is a hydrogen atom or lower alkyl; R2a, R2b, R3a, R3b, R4a and R4b is each independently a hydrogen atom, halogen, or hydroxy etc.; n and m are each independently an integer of 0 to 3; n+m is an integer of 0 to 3; R5 is a hydrogen atom or substituted lower alkyl; its pharmaceutically acceptable salt, or a solvate thereof. |
| US08633184B2 |
Benzoazepin-oxy-acetic acid derivatives as PPAR-delta agonists used for the increase of HDL-C, lower LDL-C and lower cholesterol
The invention is directed to compounds of Formula (I) useful as PPAR agonists. Pharmaceutical compositions and methods of treating one or more conditions including, but not limited to, diabetes, nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, polycystic ovary syndrome, hypertension, ischemia, stroke, irritable bowel disorder, inflammation, cataract, cardiovascular diseases, Metabolic X Syndrome, hyper-LDL-cholesterolemia, dyslipidemia (including hypertriglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia, mixed hyperlipidemia, and hypo-HDL-cholesterolemia), atherosclerosis, obesity, and other disorders related to lipid metabolism and energy homeostasis complications thereof, using compounds of the invention are also described. |
| US08633183B2 |
5-alkynyl-pyrimidines
The present invention encompasses compounds of general formula (1) wherein R1 to R3 are defined as in claim 1, which are suitable for the treatment of diseases characterized by excessive or abnormal cell proliferation, and the use thereof for preparing a medicament having the above-mentioned properties. |
| US08633182B2 |
Indanyloxyphenylcyclopropanecarboxylic acids
The present invention relates to compounds of general formula I, wherein the groups R1, R2, R3, m and n are defined as in claim 1, which have valuable pharmacological properties, in particular bind to the GPR40 receptor and modulate its activity. The compounds are suitable for treatment and prevention of diseases which can be influenced by this receptor, such as metabolic diseases, in particular diabetes type 2. Furthermore, the invention relates to novel intermediates, useful for the synthesis of compounds of formula I. |
| US08633180B2 |
Organic compounds
Optionally substituted 4,5,7,8-tetrahydro-(optionally 4-thioxo or 4-imino)-(1H or 2H)-imidazo[1,2-a]pyrazolo[4,3-e]pyrimidine or 4,5,7,8,9-pentahydro-(optionally 4-thioxo or 4-imino)-(1H or 2H)-pyrimido[1,2-a]pyrazolo[4,3-e]pyrimidine compounds or Compounds of Formula (I), processes for their production, their use as pharmaceuticals and pharmaceutical compositions comprising them. |
| US08633179B2 |
Synergistic interaction of NOTCH-1 inhibitors with glucocorticoids
The present invention relates to methods and compositions for preventing and/or treating various conditions in a patient, including for example, T-cell lymphoblastic leukemia and lymphoma as well as neurodegenerative diseases, such as for example, Alzheimer's disease. In one preferred embodiment of the invention, such methods include providing a patient with an effective amount of a combination of a NOTCH-1 inhibitor and glucocorticoid. The present invention further encompasses methods for increasing the efficacy of, and mitigating resistance to, glucocorticoids in the treatment of T-cell lymphoblastic leukemia and lymphoma, which generally include providing a patient with an effective amount of one or more NOTCH-1 inhibitors. |
| US08633171B2 |
Transparent oil gelling system
The invention relates to a gellant system for a polar oil comprising gellant effective amounts of silica, a sugar fatty acid ester and a long chain polymer. The gellant system of the invention is useful in gelling polar oils to produce transparent or translucent gels useful in topical compositions. |
| US08633165B2 |
Neuroprotective effects of 2DG in traumatic brain injury
This invention provides methods for reducing the extent and progression of traumatic brain injury and its deleterious sequellae specifically cognitive decline, post-traumatic epilepsy, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other adverse consequences depending on the progression of the initial injury, comprising administering to a TBI victim in need thereof a therapeutically-effective amount of an antiglycolytic compound, particularly 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG) or glycolysis-inhibiting analogs thereof. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions of 2-DG or glycolysis-inhibiting analogs thereof for use in the methods of the invention. |
| US08633164B2 |
Antimicrobial peptides
The present invention relates to a peptide of linear, non-cyclic structure consisting of or comprising 17 to 23 amino acids, wherein the amino acids in positions 1 to 23, counted from the N-terminus, are as follows (1) G, S or lacking; (2) C or lacking; (3) K or R; (4) K or R; (5) Y, W or F; (6) K or R; (7) K or R; (8) F, W or L; (9) K or R; (10) K or L or lacking; (11) W, L or F; (12) K or R; (13) F, Y or C; (14) K or R; (15) G or Q; (16) K or R; (17) F, L or W; (18) F or W; (19) F, L or W; (20) W or F; (21) C or lacking; (22) F or G or lacking (23) G or lacking. Further, the invention relates to a nucleic acid molecule encoding the peptide of the invention, an expression vector comprising the nucleic acid molecule of the invention, a host cell which may be grown in cell culture comprising the vector of the invention, and a method of producing the peptide of the invention comprising culturing the host cell of the invention and collecting the peptide produced. Also, the present invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising the peptide of the invention, the peptide produced by the method of the invention, the nucleic acid molecule of the invention, the expression vector of the invention or the host cell of the invention and a kit comprising the peptide of the invention, the peptide produced by the method of the invention, the nucleic acid molecule of the invention, the expression vector of the invention or the host cell of the invention. |
| US08633156B2 |
Insulin derivatives having an extremely delayed time-action profile
The invention relates to novel insulin analogs having a basal time-action profile, which are characterized by the addition and/or substitution of negatively and positively charged amino acid residues and by an amidation of the C-terminal carboxy group of the B chain and histidine in position 8 of the insulin A chain. The invention also relates to the production and use thereof. |
| US08633150B2 |
Methods for inducing sustained immune response
A method for promoting a sustained increased level of T-cell production in immunocompromised subjects in which method enkephalin peptides are administered according to an intermittent dose schedule. In particular, the method involves treatment of immunocompromised patients which includes the administration of enkephalin, either alone or in conjunction with other therapies, in an initial dosage regimen, with periodic booster dosages of enkephalin as necessary to maintain sustained immune system response. |
| US08633148B2 |
Encapsulates
The present application relates to encapsulated, solid, water soluble benefit agents and products comprising such encapsulates, as well as processes for making and using such encapsulates and products comprising such encapsulates. In one aspect, the present application relates to a melamine formaldehyde and/or urea formaldehyde encapsulation process that offers as solution to the dissolution of solid, water soluble benefit agents during the process's emulsification step. |
| US08633145B1 |
Methods for removal of cosmetic residue from surfaces
A non-toxic formulation for removing cosmetic residue from glass, porcelain, polymeric and textile surfaces includes an anionic surfactant; ethanol; glycerin; water; and optionally an edible fragrance. Optionally, the exemplary formulation includes from about 0.1 to about 10 wt. % iso-propyl alcohol, or about 5 wt. %. Optionally, the surfactant is selected from the group consisting of sodium alpha-olefin sulfonates, and further optionally, the surfactant comprises sodium 14, 16 alpha-olefin sulfonate. In another exemplary embodiment, convenient wipes are provided that are impregnated with the formulation. |
| US08633143B2 |
Compositions comprising estolide compounds and methods of making and using the same
Provided herein are compositions comprising at least one estolide compound of formula: in which n is an integer equal to or greater than 0; m is an integer equal to or greater than 1; R1, independently for each occurrence, is selected from optionally substituted alkyl that is saturated or unsaturated, and branched or unbranched; R2 is selected from hydrogen and optionally substituted alkyl that is saturated or unsaturated, and branched or unbranched; and R3 and R4, independently for each occurrence, are selected from optionally substituted alkyl that is saturated or unsaturated, and branched or unbranched. Also provided are uses of the compositions described herein. |
| US08633142B2 |
Poly (hydroxycarboxylic acid) amide salt derivative and lubricating composition containing it
The present invention provides a poly(hydroxycarboxylic acid) amide salt derivative having formula (III): [Y—CO[O-A-CO]n—Z—R+]mpXq− (III) wherein Y is hydrogen or an optionally substituted hydrocarbyl group, A is a divalent optionally substituted hydrocarbyl group, n is from 1 to 100, preferably from 1 to 10, m is from 1 to 4, q is from 1 to 4 and p is an integer such that pq=m, Z is an optionally substituted divalent bridging group which is attached to the carbonyl group through a nitrogen atom, R+ is an ammonium group and Xq− is a non-sulphur-containing anion. Furthermore, the present invention provides a lubricating composition and a fuel composition containing the poly(hydroxycarboxylic acid) amide salt derivative and the use of the poly(hydroxycarboxylic acid) amide salt derivative for decreasing the phosphorus volatility of a fluid. |
| US08633140B2 |
Functionalized polydiacetylene sensors
A microarray includes a solid substrate having a surface, the surface having a plurality of binding spots and a plurality of reaction moieties bound to the binding spots. A reaction moiety includes a plurality of polyacetylene monomers, the polyacetylene monomers having a first coupling region and a second coupling region, the first coupling region having a first functional group operable to bind to the binding spot and the second coupling region comprising a second functional group operable to bind to an accessory molecule; and an accessory molecule having a binding region and an analyte reaction region, the analyte reaction region operable to selectively bind to the target analyte, and the binding region operable to bind to the second coupling region of the polyacetylene monomer. Upon binding a target analyte with the reaction moiety, a color change from the polyacetylene monomer occurs and the reaction moiety produces fluorescence. |
| US08633138B2 |
Method for depositing oxide films on textured metal pipes
Method of depositing a buffer layer of epitaxial metal oxide on a functionalised surface of a textured metal substrate, said method comprising the following steps: (1) a layer is deposited of a precursor of an oxide of the type A2−xB2+xO7 where A represents a metal of valency 3 or a mixture of several of these metals, and B a metal of valency 4, and x is a number between −0.1 and +0.1, from a solution of carboxylates of said metals A and B, (2) said layer of oxide precursor is left to dry, (3) heat treatment is carried out in order to pyrolyse said oxide precursor and to form the oxide, at least part of said heat treatment being carried out under a flow of reducing gas. |
| US08633136B2 |
Agricultural adjuvant compositions, pesticide compositions, and methods for using such compositions
An adjuvant composition for use with a pesticide contains at least one surfactant compound selected from each of at least two of the following groups:(i) phosphate ester surfactants, (ii) alkylpolyglucoside surfactants, (iii) the group consisting of imidazoline-based amphoteric surfactants, sultaine surfactants, and aminopropionate surfactants, and (iv) the group consisting of sulfonate surfactants, sulfosuccinate surfactants, alkyl ether carboxylate surfactants, alkoxylated fatty acid surfactants, and alkoxylated alcohol surfactants. A pesticide composition contains the adjuvant composition and a pesticide is useful for treating plants. |
| US08633134B2 |
Substituted amidine compounds for combating animal pests
The invention relates to substituted amidine compounds of formula (I), to the enantiomers, diastereomers and salts thereof and to compositions comprising such compounds. The invention also relates to the use of the substituted amidine compounds, of their salts or of compositions comprising them for combating animal pests. Furthermore the invention relates also to methods of applying such substituted amidine compounds.The substituted amidine compounds of the present invention are defined by the following formula I: wherein A1 to A4, B1 to B3, R1 to R3, (R4)p, (R5)q, X and Y are defined as in the description. |
| US08633133B2 |
Synthesis of clay-templated subnano-sized zero valent iron (ZVI) particles and clays containing same
A clay comprising a 2:1 aluminosilicate clay having negative charge sites, the 2:1 aluminosilicate clay containing subnano-sized zero valent iron (ZVI) particles distributed on clay surfaces is provided. In one embodiment, at least some or all of the particles have a cross-section of five (5) angstroms or less. Methods of synthesizing and the novel clays and the clay-templated subnano-scale ZVI particles themselves are also described. Such novel products are useful in a variety of remediation applications, including for reduction and dechlorination reactions. |
| US08633130B2 |
Vandium traps for catalytic cracking processes and preparation thereof
The invention relates to chemical compositions that can be used for hydrocarbon catalytic cracking processes with vanadium as a contaminant, including an active phase formed by different pyrophosphates M2P2O7 (M=Ba or Ca) supported on a mixture of magnesium and aluminum oxide, preferably magnesium aluminate in the spinel phase. The composition captures the metals originating from the charge, particularly vanadium, and thus protects the catalyst. Said composition is preferably used in the form of a separated particle in order to the control the addition thereof to the unit according to the metal content of the charge. The invention also relates to the method for preparing said composition, including synthesis of pyrophosphates, formation of a suspension of boehmite alumina, magnesium oxide or magnesium hydroxide, together with oxides M2P2O7, spray drying and calcination of the microspheres without generating any loss in the crystalline structure of oxides M2P2O7. |
| US08633127B2 |
Selective hydrogenation catalyst and methods of making and using same
A composition comprising a supported hydrogenation catalyst comprising palladium and an organophosphorous compound, the supported hydrogenation catalyst being capable of selectively hydrogenating highly unsaturated hydrocarbons to unsaturated hydrocarbons. A method of making a selective hydrogenation catalyst comprising contacting a support with a palladium-containing compound to form a palladium supported composition, contacting the palladium supported composition with an organophosphorus compound to form a catalyst precursor, and reducing the catalyst precursor to form the catalyst. A method of selectively hydrogenating highly unsaturated hydrocarbons to an unsaturated hydrocarbon enriched composition comprising contacting a supported catalyst comprising palladium and an organophosphorous compound with a feed comprising highly unsaturated hydrocarbon under conditions suitable for hydrogenating at least a portion of the highly unsaturated hydrocarbon feed to form the unsaturated hydrocarbon enriched composition. |
| US08633124B2 |
Spheroidal particles for olefin polymerization catalyst
The invention relates to a process for the synthesis of spheroidal magnesium alkoxide having improved mechanical strength and narrow particle size distribution, the process comprising reacting magnesium metal, in the presence of iodine, with a mixture of alcohols by step-wise heating first in the range of 40° C. to 65° C. for a period of 2 hours and then in the range of 65° C. to 80° C. for a period of 1 hour, further by maintaining reaction temperature at 80° C. for a period of 6-10 hours, the vapors of the mixture produced during the reaction being condensed in an overhead condenser, hydrogen gas produced during the reaction being vented off and the mixture of alcohols left after the reaction being filtered and reused. The invention also relates to spheroidal magnesium alkoxide particles synthesized by the method, to the Ziegler natta procatalyst synthesized by using the alkoxide and to the polymer resin synthesized using the procatalyst. |
| US08633120B2 |
Lyocell fiber
The invention concerns a Lyocell fiber, containing a material selected from the group consisting of pearl powder, ground nacre and mixtures thereof. For the manufacture of the fiber according to the invention, a process is used comprising the steps of manufacturing a spinning solution of cellulose in an aqueous tertiary amine oxide, preferably N-methylmorpholine-N-oxide (NMMO) spinning the spinning solution to fibers, and being characterized in that a material selected from the group consisting of pearl powder, ground nacre and mixtures thereof is admixed to the spinning solution and/or to a precursor thereof. |
| US08633119B2 |
Methods for manufacturing high dielectric constant films
Provided are methods for depositing a high-k dielectric film on a substrate. The methods comprise annealing a substrate after cleaning the surface to create dangling bonds and depositing the high-k dielectric film on the annealed surface. |
| US08633117B1 |
Sputter and surface modification etch processing for metal patterning in integrated circuits
In one embodiment, fabricating conductive lines in an integrated circuit includes providing a layer of conductive metal in a multi-layer structure fabricated upon a wafer and sputter etching the conductive metal using methanol plasma, wherein a portion of the conductive metal that remains after the sputter etching forms the conductive lines. In another embodiment, fabricating conductive lines in an integrated circuit includes providing a layer of conductive metal in a multi-layer structure fabricated upon a wafer, wherein the layer of conductive metal is an intermediate layer in the multi-layer structure, etching the multi-layer structure to expose the conductive metal, sputter etching conductive metal using methanol plasma, wherein a portion of the conductive metal that remains after the sputter etching forms the conductive lines, forming a liner that surrounds the conductive lines, subsequent to the sputter etching, and depositing a dielectric layer on the multi-layer structure. |
| US08633113B2 |
Method for fabricating a bottom oxide layer in a trench
A method for fabricating a bottom oxide layer in a trench (102) is disclosed. The method comprises forming the trench (102) in a semiconductor substrate (100), depositing an oxide layer to partially fill a field area (104) and the trench (102), wherein said oxide layer has oxide overhang portions (106) and removing the oxide overhang portions (106) of the deposited oxide layer. Thereafter, the method comprises forming a bottom anti-reflective coating (BARC) layer (108) to cover the oxide layer in the field area (104) and the trench (102), removing the BARC layer (110) from the field area (104), while retaining a predetermined thickness of the BARC layer (112) in the trench (102), removing the oxide layer from the field area (104) and removing the BARC layer and oxide layer in the trench (102) to obtain a predetermined thickness of the bottom oxide layer (114). |
| US08633109B2 |
Soft error rate (SER) reduction in advanced silicon processes
Provided is a method of fabricating a semiconductor device. The method includes providing a substrate. The method includes forming a portion of an interconnect structure over the substrate. The portion of the interconnect structure has an opening. The method includes obtaining a boron-containing gas that is free of a boron-10 isotope. The method includes filling the opening with a conductive material to form a contact. The filling of the opening is carried out using the boron-containing gas. Also provided is a semiconductor device. The semiconductor device includes a substrate. The semiconductor device includes an interconnect structure formed over the substrate. The semiconductor device includes a conductive contact formed in the interconnect structure. The conductive contact has a material composition that includes Tungsten and Boron, wherein the Boron is a 11B-enriched Boron. |
| US08633108B1 |
Dual damascene process
A method for forming dual damascene structures in a semiconductor structure is disclosed. The method generally includes etching a substrate using a first hard mask to form a plurality of first trenches and vias, forming a set of first conductive lines and via interconnects, removing the first hard mask, etching the substrate using a second hard mask to form a plurality of second trenches and vias, and forming a set of second conductive lines and via interconnects. At least some of the first conductive lines are interspersed between some of the second conductive lines. A planarization process is used on the substrate after forming the first conductive lines and via interconnects before forming the second conductive lines and via interconnects. |
| US08633102B2 |
Module comprising a semiconductor chip
A module includes a semiconductor chip having at least a first terminal contact surface and a second terminal contact surface. A first bond element made of a material on the basis of Cu is attached to the first terminal contact surface, and a second bond element is attached to the second terminal contact surface. The second bond element is made of a material different from the material of the first bond element or is made of a type of bond element different from the type of the first bond element. |
| US08633101B2 |
Semiconductor device and manufacturing method of semiconductor device
A manufacturing method of a semiconductor device including an electrode having low contact resistivity to a nitride semiconductor is provided. The manufacturing method includes a carbon containing layer forming step of forming a carbon containing layer containing carbon on a nitride semiconductor layer, and a titanium containing layer forming step of forming a titanium containing layer containing titanium on the carbon containing layer. A complete solid solution Ti (C, N) layer of TiN and TiC is formed between the titanium containing layer and the nitride semiconductor layer. As a result, the titanium containing layer comes to be in ohmic contact with the nitride semiconductor layer throughout the border therebetween. |
| US08633094B2 |
GaN high voltage HFET with passivation plus gate dielectric multilayer structure
A method of fabricating a multi-layer structure for a power transistor device includes performing, within a reaction chamber, a nitrogen plasma strike, resulting in the formation of a nitride layer directly on a nitride-based active semiconductor layer. A top surface of the nitride layer is then exposed to a second source. A subsequent nitrogen-oxygen plasma strike results in the formation of an oxy-nitride layer directly on the nitride layer. The nitride layer comprises a passivation layer and the oxy-nitride layer comprises a gate dielectric of the power transistor device. |
| US08633093B2 |
Oxygen doping method to gallium nitride single crystal substrate
Oxygen can be doped into a gallium nitride crystal by preparing a non-C-plane gallium nitride seed crystal, supplying material gases including gallium, nitrogen and oxygen to the non-C-plane gallium nitride seed crystal, growing a non-C-plane gallium nitride crystal on the non-C-plane gallium nitride seed crystal and allowing oxygen to infiltrating via a non-C-plane surface to the growing gallium nitride crystal. Oxygen-doped {20-21}, {1-101}, {1-100}, {11-20} or {20-22} surface n-type gallium nitride crystals are obtained. |
| US08633083B1 |
Apparatus and method for a metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor with source side punch-through protection implant
A metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET) with source side punch-through protection implant. Specifically, the MOSFET comprises a semiconductor substrate, a gate stack formed above the semiconductor substrate, source and drain regions, and a protection implant. The semiconductor substrate comprises a first p-type doping concentration. The source and drain regions comprise an n-type doping concentration, and are formed on opposing sides of the gate stack in the semiconductor substrate. The protection implant comprises a second p-type doping concentration, and is formed in the semiconductor substrate under the source region and surrounds the source region in order to protect the source region from the depletion region corresponding to the drain region. |
| US08633082B2 |
Method for fabricating high-gain MOSFETs with asymmetric source/drain doping for analog and RF applications
A method of fabrication of an analog, asymmetric Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor-Field-Effect-Transistor (MOSFET) is provided. The method may comprise forming a first gate oriented in a first direction over an active region of a semiconductor substrate, forming a second gate extending perpendicular to the first gate over a second active region, using a dual-directional implant process to form a reduced-HALO doped area on a drain side of the first gate and also for a HALO doped area for the second gate, while the source side of the first gate is covered by a resist. Additionally, the method may comprise forming a HALO doped area on the source side of the first gate using a quad-directional implant process using the mask also used for HALO implants of other digital-logic devices on the substrate, while the drain side of the gate is blocked by a resist. |
| US08633081B2 |
Modifying growth rate of a device layer
A device includes a substrate with a device region on which a transistor is formed. The device region includes active edge regions and an active center region which have different oxidation growth rates. A growth rate modifier (GRM) comprising dopants which modifies oxidation growth rate is employed to produce a gate oxide layer which has a uniform thickness. The GRM may enhance or retard the oxidation growth, depending on the type of dopants used. Fluorine dopants enhance oxidation growth rate while nitrogen dopants retard oxidation growth rate. |
| US08633080B2 |
Methods of making multi-state non-volatile memory cells
A semiconductor device includes a region in a semiconductor substrate having a top surface with a first charge storage layer on the top surface. A first conductive line is on the first charge storage layer. A second charge storage layer is on the top surface. A second conductive line is on the second charge storage layer. A third charge storage layer is on the top surface. A third conductive line is on the third charge storage layer. A fourth charge storage layer has a first side adjoining a first sidewall of the first conductive line and a second side adjoining a first sidewall of the second conductive line. A fifth charge storage layer has a first side adjoining a second sidewall of the second conductive line and a second side adjoining a first sidewall of the third conductive line. Source and drain regions are formed in the substrate on either side of the semiconductor device. |
| US08633079B2 |
Method for fabricating a SONOS memory
A method for fabricating SONOS memory is disclosed. The method includes the steps of: providing a semiconductor substrate; forming a first silicon oxide layer, a silicon nitride layer, and a second silicon oxide layer on the surface of the semiconductor substrate; forming a hard mask on the second silicon oxide layer; patterning the hard mask, the second silicon oxide layer, the silicon nitride layer, and the first silicon oxide layer to form a patterned hard mask and a stacked structure; forming a gate oxide layer on surface of the patterned hard mask; removing the gate oxide layer and the patterned hard mask; forming a patterned polysilicon layer on surface of the stacked structure; and forming a source/drain region in the semiconductor substrate adjacent to two sides of the polysilicon layer. |
| US08633077B2 |
Transistors with uniaxial stress channels
A method for fabricating a transistor with uniaxial stress channels includes depositing an insulating layer onto a substrate, defining bars within the insulating layer, recessing a channel into the substrate, growing a first semiconducting material in the channel, defining a gate stack over the bars and semiconducting material, defining source and drain recesses and embedding a second semiconducting material into the source and drain recesses. |
| US08633076B2 |
Method for adjusting fin width in integrated circuitry
A method includes growing a plurality of parallel mandrels on a surface of a semiconductor substrate, each mandrel having at least two laterally opposite sidewalls and a predetermined width. The method further includes forming a first type of spacers on the sidewalls of the mandrels, wherein the first type of spacers between two adjacent mandrels are separated by a gap. The predetermined mandrel width is adjusted to close the gap between the adjacent first type of spacers to form a second type of spacers. The mandrels are removed to form a first type of fins from the first type of spacers, and to form a second type of fins from spacers between two adjacent mandrels. The second type of fins are wider than the first type of fins. |
| US08633075B2 |
Semiconductor device with high voltage transistor
A method for manufacturing a semiconductor includes: forming an isolation region defining first, second and third active regions; implanting first impurity ions of a first conductivity type to form first, second and third wells; implanting second impurity ions of the first conductivity type to form first and second channel regions; implanting second impurity ions of a second conductivity to form a first drain region, such that a portion of the first channel region is overlapped with the first drain region; forming first, second and third gate electrodes, the first gate electrode superposing a portion of the first drain region and covering one lateral end of the first channel region; forming first insulating side wall spacers and a second insulating side wall spacer on a side wall of the first gate electrode; and implanting fourth impurity ions of the second conductivity type to form second drain/source regions. |
| US08633074B2 |
Electrically programmable and erasable memory device and method of fabrication thereof
The present memory device includes a substrate, a tunneling layer over the substrate, a floating gate over the tunneling layer, a dielectric over the floating gate and including silicon oxynitride, and a control gate over the dielectric. A method for fabricating such a memory device is also provided, including various approaches for forming the silicon oxynitride. |
| US08633072B2 |
Method of manufacturing semiconductor device
Provided is a method of manufacturing a semiconductor device. The method may include etching a first conductive type semiconductor substrate to form a first trench, forming a second trench extending from the first trench, diffusing impurities into inner walls of the second trench to form a second conductive type impurity region surrounding the second trench, forming a floating dielectric layer covering inner walls of the second trench and a floating electrode filling the second trench, and forming a gate dielectric layer covering inner walls of the first trench and a gate electrode filling the first trench. |
| US08633070B2 |
Lightly doped source/drain last method for dual-epi integration
An integrated circuit device and method for fabricating the integrated circuit device is disclosed. The method involves providing a substrate; forming a gate structure over the substrate; forming an epitaxial layer in a source and drain region of the substrate that is interposed by the gate structure; and after forming the epitaxial layer, forming a lightly doped source and drain (LDD) feature in the source and drain region. |
| US08633061B2 |
Method of fabricating package structure
A package structure includes a metal sheet having perforations; a semiconductor chip having an active surface and an opposite inactive surface, wherein the active surface has electrode pads thereon, conductive bumps are disposed on the electrode pads, the semiconductor chip is combined with the metal sheet via the inactive surface thereof, a protective buffer layer is formed on the active surface to cover the conductive bumps, and the perforations are arranged around a periphery of the inactive surface of the semiconductor chip; an encapsulant formed on the metal sheet and in the perforations, for encapsulating the semiconductor chip and exposing the protective buffer layer; and a circuit fan-out layer formed on the encapsulant and the protective buffer layer and having conductive vias penetrating the protective buffer layer and electrically connecting to the conductive bumps. A method of fabricating the package structure and a package-on-package device including the package structure are also provided. |
| US08633060B2 |
Semiconductor device production method and semiconductor device
A purpose of the application is to provide a semiconductor device production method capable of reducing complexity of production operations and keeping production costs low, and enhancing reliability, and a semiconductor device. One aspect of the invention provides a method of producing a semiconductor device, the method including a first bonding step of bonding a first electrode plate and a semiconductor device portion, and a second bonding step of bonding the semiconductor device portion and a second electrode plate. The method includes a sealing step of forming a sealed composite body by covering target surfaces of a composite body formed by the first bonding step with resin, the target surfaces being surfaces other than a second surface of the first electrode plate and the second surface of the semiconductor device portion. The second bonding step is performed after the sealing step. |
| US08633058B2 |
Integrated circuit packaging system with step mold and method of manufacture thereof
A method of manufacture of an integrated circuit packaging system includes: providing a substrate; connecting an integrated circuit die to the substrate, with the integrated circuit die having peripheral sides; molding a step mold covering one of the peripheral sides; attaching an intermediate die directly over the integrated circuit die, offset to one of the peripheral sides adjacent to the step mold; and directly connecting the intermediate die to the substrate. |
| US08633054B2 |
Organic light-emitting display device and method of manufacturing the same
In an organic light-emitting display device and a method of manufacturing the same, the organic light-emitting display device comprises: a substrate including a transistor region; a buffer layer and a semiconductor layer sequentially formed on the substrate; a gate electrode formed on the semiconductor layer; an interlayer insulating film formed on the gate electrode; source and drain electrodes, each formed on the interlayer insulating film and having a portion penetrating the interlayer insulating film so as to contact the semiconductor layer; a mask pattern formed on each of the source and drain electrodes; and a pixel defined layer formed on the mask pattern. |
| US08633053B2 |
Photovoltaic device
A photovoltaic device is described. The photovoltaic device comprises an organic-based antireflection layer. A method of making a photovoltaic device is also described. |
| US08633051B2 |
Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing semiconductor device
An object is to prevent a reduction of definition (or resolution) (a peripheral blur) caused when reflected light enters a photoelectric conversion element arranged at a periphery of a photoelectric conversion element arranged at a predetermined address. A semiconductor device is manufactured through the steps of: forming a structure having a first light-transmitting substrate, a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements over the first light-transmitting substrate, a second light-transmitting substrate provided so as to face the plurality of photoelectric conversion elements, a sealant arranged so as to bond the first light-transmitting substrate and the second light-transmitting substrate and surround the plurality of photoelectric conversion elements; and thinning the first light-transmitting substrate by wet etching. |
| US08633049B2 |
Method of fabrication of Al/GE bonding in a wafer packaging environment and a product produced therefrom
A method of bonding of germanium to aluminum between two substrates to create a robust electrical and mechanical contact is disclosed. An aluminum-germanium bond has the following unique combination of attributes: (1) it can form a hermetic seal; (2) it can be used to create an electrically conductive path between two substrates; (3) it can be patterned so that this conduction path is localized; (4) the bond can be made with the aluminum that is available as standard foundry CMOS process. This has the significant advantage of allowing for wafer-level bonding or packaging without the addition of any additional process layers to the CMOS wafer. |
| US08633046B2 |
Manufacturing method for semiconductor light-emitting element
Provided are a semiconductor light-emitting element that is capable of efficiently outputting blue color or ultraviolet light, and a lamp using the semiconductor light-emitting element.The semiconductor light-emitting element is obtained by a manufacturing method that, when manufacturing the semiconductor light-emitting element that comprises a compound semiconductor layer that includes at least a p-type semiconductor layer, and a transparent electrode that is provided on the p-type semiconductor layer, includes a step of forming a film comprising an oxide of indium and gallium, or forming a film comprising an oxide of indium, gallium and tin, in an amorphous state on the p-type semiconductor layer, so as to form a transparent conductive film, followed by a step of performing an annealing process on the transparent conductive film at a temperature of 200° C. to 480° C. |
| US08633043B2 |
Method of fabricating fringe field switching liquid crystal display device
A method of fabricating a fringe field switching (FFS)-liquid crystal display (LCD) device may have the following advantage. An inferior connection between the drain electrode and the pixel electrode may be prevented by preventing formation of a copper compound on the drain electrode, by performing a back channel etching after patterning a pixel electrode, and by performing a wet strip rather than a dry strip. This may result in a direct contact between copper and ITO, thereby reducing the number of mask processes. |
| US08633041B2 |
Method for manufacturing quantum cascade laser
A method for manufacturing a quantum cascade laser includes the steps of forming a semiconductor stacked structure including a first semiconductor region and a second semiconductor region; forming an etching mask having a striped pattern on the second semiconductor region; forming a semiconductor mesa structure having a mesa shape in cross section by etching the first and second semiconductor regions using the etching mask; forming an insulating layer over a top portion and side surfaces of the semiconductor mesa structure and the first semiconductor region; forming an opening in a portion of the insulating layer that is disposed on the top portion of the semiconductor mesa structure; and forming an electrode over the inside of the opening of the insulating layer, the top portion and side surfaces of the semiconductor mesa structure, and the first semiconductor region. |
| US08633034B2 |
Methods for evaluating the aggregation of a protein in a suspension including organopolysiloxane and medical articles coated with organopolysiloxane containing a protein solution
This invention relates to methods for evaluating or inhibiting the aggregation of a protein in an aqueous suspension including organopolysiloxane and medical articles coated with organopolysiloxane containing a protein solution including sugar and a non-ionic surfactant. |
| US08633031B2 |
Expression quantification using mass spectrometry
In various aspects, the present teachings provide systems, methods, assays and kits for the absolute quantitation of protein expression. In various aspects, the present teachings provide methods of determining the concentration of one or more proteins of interest in one or more samples of interest. In various aspects, the present teachings provide methods of determining the absolute concentration of one or more isoforms of a protein using standard samples of signature protein fragments and parent-daughter ion transition monitoring (PDITM). In various embodiments, the absolute concentration of multiple isoforms of a biomolecule in a sample, multiple proteins in a biological process, a combination of multiple samples, or combinations thereof, can be determined in a multiplex fashion using the present teachings. In various aspects, provided are methods of assessing the response of a biological system to a chemical agent. |
| US08633028B2 |
dsRNA induced specific and non-specific immunity in crustaceans and other invertebrates and biodelivery vehicles for use therein
Methods for inducing systemic, non-specific and/or sequence specific immune responses in invertebrates, e.g., marine invertebrates such as mollusks, porifera, ctenophora, echinodermas, marine worms, cnideria and preferably crustaceans, by the administration of at least one dsRNA, that confers immunity against a pathogen, or modulates expression of gene that affects growth, reproduction, and general health or “robustness” are provided. Also provided are methods of identifying invertebrate genes, e.g., crustacean genes, the expression of which is involved in the induction of non-specific (systemic) immune responses against pathogens. Also disclosed are preferred delivery systems and methods for stably administering at least one dsRNA to a crustacean whereby the dsRNA is administered via injection, immersion, in a feed or nutrient medium or comprised in a microorganism, e.g., yeast or microalgae, that expresses said dsRNA and is ingestible by said crustacean, e.g., a shrimp. |
| US08633027B2 |
Knitted biodegradable silk fabric comprising yarn promoting ingrowth of cells and methods of making
Silk is purified to eliminate immunogenic components (particularly sericin) and is used to form fabric that is used to form tissue-supporting prosthetic devices for implantation. The fabrics can carry functional groups, drugs, and other biological reagents. Applications include hernia repair, tissue wall reconstruction, and organ support, such as bladder slings. The silk fibers are arranged in parallel and, optionally, intertwined (e.g., twisted) to form a construct; sericin may be extracted at any point during the formation of the fabric, leaving a construct of silk fibroin fibers having excellent tensile strength and other mechanical properties. |
| US08633026B2 |
Cytokine induction of selectin ligands on cells
Methods and compositions for treating cells with cytokines are provided herein. |
| US08633016B2 |
Microbial detection assembly
A microbial detection assembly is disclosed which includes a tubular body, a pierceable septum, and a plunger. The tubular body defines a longitudinal axis and has a first end and a second end. The pierceable septum is configured to seal the first end of the tubular body. The plunger head is configured to substantially close the second end of the tubular body. Together, the plunger head, the pierceable septum, and the tubular body define a reservoir dimensioned to receive a medium and a sample substance. Additionally, the plunger head is positioned and is movable within the tubular body in response to changes in pressure within the reservoir. |
| US08633012B2 |
Tailored oils produced from recombinant oleaginous microorganisms
Methods and compositions for the production of oil, fuels, oleochemicals, and other compounds in recombinant microorganisms are provided, including oil-bearing microorganisms and methods of low cost cultivation of such microorganisms. Microalgal cells containing exogenous genes encoding, for example, a lipase, a sucrose transporter, a sucrose invertase, a fructokinase, a polysaccharide-degrading enzyme, a keto acyl-ACP synthase enzyme, a fatty acyl-ACP thioesterase, a fatty acyl-CoA/aldehyde reductase, a fatty acyl-CoA reductase, a fatty aldehyde reductase, a fatty acid hydroxylase, a desaturase enzyme, a fatty aldehyde decarbonylase, and/or an acyl carrier protein are useful in manufacturing transportation fuels such as renewable diesel, biodiesel, and renewable jet fuel, as well as oleochemicals such as functional fluids, surfactants, soaps and lubricants. |
| US08633010B2 |
Fungal PepC inhibitor
The present invention relates to an isolated polypeptide having PepC inhibitory activity as well as to a method for producing a heterologous polypeptide of interest in an Aspergillus host cell comprising: (a) cultivating the Aspergillus host cell comprising a first and a second nucleic acid sequences under conditions conducive for the expression of the polypeptides encoded by the said first and second nucleic acid sequences, and wherein the first nucleic acid sequence encodes a heterologous polypeptide of interest and the second nucleic acid encodes the inhibitor polypeptide of the invention, and wherein the inhibitor polypeptide is expressed from a recombinant nucleic acid construct resulting in an increased level of the inhibitor polypeptide compared to an Aspergillus host cell not comprising the recombinant nucleic acid construct; and (b) recovering the heterologous polypeptide. |
| US08633003B2 |
Process and system for producing ethanol from a byproduct of an ethanol production facility
A process of producing ethanol from whole stillage, includes obtaining a supply of whole stillage from an ethanol production facility after ethanol has been extracted therefrom; pre-treating the whole stillage to convert hemicellulose portions of the whole stillage into sugars; adding enzymes to the whole stillage to convert cellulose portions of the whole stillage to sugars; fermenting the whole stillage to create a beer mixture; and distilling the beer mixture to separate ethanol therefrom. The pre-treating step may include adding acid to the whole stillage to decrease its pH level; heating and pressurizing the whole stillage; holding the whole stillage under pressure and heat for a dwell time; removing pressure from the whole stillage to cause flashing; and cooling the whole stillage before the enzymes are added. |
| US08632999B1 |
Nucleic acid amplification methods
The present invention relates to assays and kits for carrying out said assays for the rapid, automated detection of infectious pathogenic agents and normal and abnormal genes. The present invention further relates to methods for general amplification of total mRNAs and for analyzing differential mRNA expression using the amplification methods disclosed herein. |
| US08632997B2 |
RNA sequence-specific mediators of RNA interference
The present invention relates to a Drosophila in vitro system which was used to demonstrate that dsRNA is processed to RNA segments 21-23 nucleotides (nt) in length. Furthermore, when these 21-23 nt fragments are purified and added back to Drosophila extracts, they mediate RNA interference in the absence of long dsRNA. Thus, these 21-23 nt fragments are the sequence-specific mediators of RNA degradation. A molecular signal, which may be their specific length, must be present in these 21-23 nt fragments to recruit cellular factors involved in RNAi. This present invention encompasses these 21-23 nt fragments and their use for specifically inactivating gene function. The use of these fragments (or chemically synthesized oligonucleotides of the same or similar nature) enables the targeting of specific mRNAs for degradation in mammalian cells, where the use of long dsRNAs to elicit RNAi is usually not practical, presumably because of the deleterious effects of the interferon response. This specific targeting of a particular gene function is useful in functional genomic and therapeutic applications. |
| US08632995B2 |
High-cell density fed-batch fermentation process for producing recombinant protein
Methods for producing proteins, for example, recombinant meningococcal 2086 proteins, using fed-batch fermentation with continuous input of an inducer after achieving a threshold parameter, and optionally continuous input of a carbon source, for example, a constant rate input, to improve protein yields, as well as high density protein compositions and compositions for use in the methods of the present invention, are provided. |
| US08632994B2 |
Methods and compositions for immuno-histochemical detection
The invention relates to methods and compositions of detecting a biological marker in a sample. In certain embodiments, the methods and compositions comprise a first binding agent that specifically binds to a biological marker in a sample; a second binding agent linked to a first polymer, wherein the second binding agent specifically binds to the first binding agent; a third binding agent linked to a second polymer, wherein the third binding agent specifically binds to the second binding agent; and a detectable substance. In certain embodiments the biological markers are detected immunologically. |
| US08632993B2 |
Method for grass species identification
The present invention relates to the use of at least one peptide comprising or consisting of a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO: 1, SEQ ID NO: 2, SEQ ID NO: 3, SEQ ID NO: 4 and SEQ ID NO: 5, for determining the presence of extracts from at least one grass species in a composition. |
| US08632992B2 |
Methods for assaying enzyme activities
The present invention provides compounds and methods for assaying activities of enzymes such as histone deacetylases and histone acetyltransferases. In some embodiments, the methods may be performed in one step. The compounds described herein features peptide-based compounds having at least one blocked lysine or arginine residue which are coupled to reporter moieties. The methods described herein involve reacting a compound described herein with an enzyme, such as a histone deacetylase enzyme or a histone acetyltransferase enzyme, and an endopeptidase that recognizes basic amino acids to release the reporter moiety which may be subsequently detected. |
| US08632991B2 |
Methods and compositions for treating bleeding disorders
Aspects of the invention include methods for enhancing blood coagulation in a subject. In practicing methods according to certain embodiments, an amount of a non-anticoagulant sulfated polysaccharide (NASP) is administered to a subject to enhance blood coagulation in the subject. Also provided are methods for preparing a NASP composition having blood coagulation enhancing activity. Compositions and kits for practicing methods of the invention are also described. |
| US08632990B2 |
Detection of soluble adiponectin receptor peptides and use in diagnosis and therapeutics
The present invention relates to soluble C-terminal fragments of the adiponectin receptor and their use in the diagnosis and management of disorders. |
| US08632989B1 |
Mutant insulin degrading enzyme and methods of use
In one aspect, the present invention provides an isolated mutant insulin degrading enzyme (IDE) having an amino acid sequence that is at least 90% identical to SEQ ID NO:1 over its entire length and comprises at least one amino acid substitution at any of amino acid residues 332, 339, 341, 359, 360, 361, 374, 429, 609, 898, 899 or 901 of the sequence. The mutant IDE has a differential activity relative to that of wild-type IDE. Also provided is a polynucleotide encoding the polypeptide of the invention. |
| US08632987B2 |
Methods and compositions for treating and diagnosing diseases
Methods and compositions for diagnosing and treating diseases, particularly cancer, associated with differential expression of cancer-associated targets (CAT) in disease cells compared to healthy cells are provided. Also provided are antagonists and agonists of CAT, and methods for screening agents that modulate CAT level or activity in vivo or in vitro. |
| US08632984B2 |
RBM3 as a marker for malignant melanoma prognosis
A method for determining whether a mammalian subject having a malignant melanoma belongs to a first or a second group, wherein the prognosis of subjects of the first group is better than the prognosis of subjects of the second group is provided. The method comprises the steps of: evaluating an amount of RBM3 protein in at least part of a sample earlier obtained from the subject and determining a sample value corresponding to the evaluated amount; comparing said sample value with a predetermined reference value; and if said sample value is higher than said reference value, concluding that the subject belongs to the first group; and if said sample value is lower than or equal to said reference value, concluding that the subject belongs to the second group. |
| US08632979B2 |
Methods for determining agents that treat or prevent obesity and/or obesity related diseases and methods for treatment therewith
The present invention provides methods for determining a putative agent that treats or prevent obesity and/or obesity related diseases comprising contacting cells with the putative agent and measuring the activity and/or level of Maf1 and/or the activity and/or level of KIAA1875. The present invention also provides the agent identified by the methods herein and methods of treating or preventing obesity and/or obesity related diseases in a subject comprising administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of an agent that inhibits or downregulates Maf1 and/or activates or upregulates KIAA1875. |
| US08632976B2 |
Amplification of TRP1 for specific detection of Phytophthora ramorum
Phytophthora ramorum is currently a devastating disease for many plant species and infection presents significant economic problems, and in particular has lead to devastating effects on many specie of oak trees. The present invention provides methods and kits for selective detection of Phytophthora ramorum by amplification of indole-3-glycerol-phosphate synthase N-5′-phosphoribosyl anthranilate isomerase (trp1) in order to provide a method for detection of the presence of P. ramorum infection in a biological sample. |
| US08632974B2 |
Detecting nucleic acid
This document provides methods and materials for detecting target nucleic acid. For example, methods and materials for detecting the presence or absence of target nucleic acid, methods and materials for detecting the amount of target nucleic acid present within a sample, kits for detecting the presence or absence of target nucleic acid, kits for detecting the amount of target nucleic acid present within a sample, and methods for making such kits are provided. |
| US08632973B2 |
Nano-PCR: methods and devices for nucleic acid amplification and detection
Methods, devices, and compositions are described that provide for amplification of nucleic acid sequences without reliance upon temperature cycling, thus freeing the methods from conventional benchtop thermal cycling devices. Denaturation of double stranded nucleic acids, primer annealing, and precision control over primer extension by polymerase can be accomplished by applying stress to a nucleic acid. These methods can provide one or more benefits over conventional PCR methods including: precision control over the PCR process; generally improved fidelity; improved accuracy over problematic sequences such as GC-rich or tandem repeat regions; greater sequence length; increased reaction yield; reduced experimental time; greater efficiency; lower cost; greater portability; and, robustness to various environmental parameters, such as temperature, pH, and ionic strengths. |
| US08632971B2 |
Methods and materials for determining the efficacy of prostate cancer therapies
Methods for monitoring, and determining the efficacy of, a treatment for prostate cancer in a subject are provided, such methods including detecting the levels of expression of multiple polypeptide biomarkers in biological samples obtained from the subject prior to, and during, a course of treatment. Specific patterns of changes in the expression of the polypeptide biomarkers are indicative of the effectiveness of the treatment in the subject. |
| US08632970B2 |
Multiplex capture of nucleic acids
Methods of capturing two or more nucleic acids simultaneously from a single sample are provided. Different nucleic acids are captured through cooperative hybridization events on different subsets of particles or at different selected positions on a spatially addressable solid support. Methods of capturing one or more long nucleic acids and methods of capturing one or more nucleic acid for sequencing are also provided. Compositions, kits, and systems related to the methods are also described. |
| US08632968B2 |
Method for the detection and/or identification of a microorganism
The present invention relates generally to a method of identifying micro-organisms in a sample and in particular to the identification of prokaryotic micro-organisms. In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a method for the detection and/or identification of at least one microorganism or for the simultaneous detection and/or identification of several microorganisms in a test sample wherein the test sample is contacted with one or more probes derived from a tuf gene variable region. |
| US08632965B2 |
Embossed cell analyte sensor and methods of manufacture
An analyte measurement system is provided having sensors with embossed test chamber channels. In one embodiment, the sensors are elongate test strips for in vitro testing, each test strip having a substrate, at least one electrode, an embossed channel in the electrode, and lidding tape covering at least a portion of the embossed channel. Methods of manufacture are also disclosed for filling the sensor channels with reagent, and for trimming the ends of the sensors to eliminate the need for a calibration code during use of the sensors with a meter. |
| US08632960B2 |
Method of forming resist pattern and negative tone-development resist composition
A method of forming a resist pattern, including: forming a resist film on a substrate using a resist composition containing a base component (A) which exhibits decreased solubility in an organic solvent under action of an acid and an acid-generator component (B) which generates an acid upon exposure, conducting exposure of the resist film, and patterning the resist film by a negative tone development using a developing solution containing an organic solvent, wherein the base component (A) includes a resin component (A1) containing a structural unit (a0) derived from an acrylate ester containing an acid decomposable group which generates an alcoholic hydroxy group by the action of acid to thereby exhibit increased hydrophilicity. |
| US08632957B2 |
Thermally crosslinkable resin composition for laser engraving, relief printing plate precursor for laser engraving and process for producing same, and relief printing plate and process for making same
A process for making a relief printing plate is provided that includes a layer formation step of forming a relief-forming layer from a resin composition that contains (Component A) a compound having a hydrolyzable silyl group and/or a silanol group, (Component B) a binder polymer, and (Component C) a peroxide, a crosslinking step of thermally crosslinking the relief-forming layer to thus obtain a relief printing plate precursor having a crosslinked relief-forming layer, and an engraving step of laser-engraving the relief printing plate precursor having a crosslinked relief-forming layer to thus form a relief layer. |
| US08632955B2 |
Conditioning a surface of an aluminium strip
A method of conditioning the surface of a work piece, particularly of a strip or sheet, more particularly of a lithostrip or lithosheet, including an aluminum alloy is provided. The method for conditioning the surface of a work piece and a work piece including an aluminum alloy enabling an increasing manufacturing speed in electro-chemically graining and maintaining at the same time a high quality of the grained surface, includes a conditioning method which comprises at least the two steps, degreasing the surface of the work piece with a degreasing medium and subsequently cleaning the surface of the work piece by pickling. |
| US08632948B2 |
Positive-working photoimageable bottom antireflective coating
The invention relates to a photoimageable antireflective coating composition capable of forming a pattern by development in an aqueous alkaline solution, comprising, (i) a polymer A soluble in a coating solvent and comprises a chromophore, a crosslinking moiety, and optionally a cleavable group which under acid or thermal conditions produces a functionality which aids in the solubility of the polymer in an aqueous alkaline solution and; (ii) at least one photoacid generator; (iii) a crosslinking agent; (iv) optionally, a thermal acid generator; (v) a polymer B which is soluble in an aqueous alkaline solution prior to development, where polymer B is non-miscible with polymer A and soluble in the coating solvent, and; (vi) a coating solvent composition, and (vii) optionally, a quencher. The invention also relates to a process for imaging the antireflective coating. |
| US08632946B2 |
Positive-type photoresist composition
Provided is a positive photoresist composition containing a cresol novolac resin (A) manufactured using m-cresol, p-cresol, and formaldehyde as essential raw materials and a novolac phenolic resin (B) manufactured using o-cresol, resorcinol, and formaldehyde as essential raw materials. This positive photoresist composition has high sensitivity and high heat resistance at the same time, which have so far been difficult to achieve at the same time, at a higher level and is suitable for use as a resist in, for example, the manufacture of semiconductor devices such as ICs and LSIs, which have required formation of finer patterns with the increasing packing density in recent years, the manufacture of displays such as LCDs, and the manufacture of printing plates. |
| US08632945B2 |
Radiation-sensitive resin composition, monomer, polymer, and production method of radiation-sensitive resin composition
A radiation-sensitive resin composition includes a solvent and a polymer. The polymer includes a repeating unit represented by a formula (I), a repeating unit represented by a formula (II), or a both thereof. Each of R1 to R3 independently represents a hydroxyl group, or the like. At least one of R1 represents a group having two or more heteroatoms. l is an integer from 1 to 5. Each of m and n is independently an integer from 0 to 5. Each of R7 and R11 independently represents a hydrogen atom, or the like. Each of R8 to R10 independently represents a hydrogen atom, or the like. A represents —O—, or the like. D represents a substituted or unsubstituted methylene group, or the like. |
| US08632939B2 |
Polymer, chemically amplified positive resist composition and pattern forming process
A polymer comprising recurring units having a fluorinated carboxylic acid onium salt structure on a side chain is used to formulate a chemically amplified positive resist composition. When the composition is processed by lithography to form a positive pattern, the diffusion of acid in the resist film is uniform and slow, and the pattern is improved in LER. |
| US08632932B2 |
Toner, color toner set, developer, process cartridge, and image forming method
A toner including a binder resin comprising a resin (a) comprising a polyhydroxycarboxylic acid skeleton formed from an optically-active monomer. The polyhydroxycarboxylic acid skeleton has a weight average molecular weight of from 7,000 to 60,000. The binder resin comprises the polyhydroxycarboxylic acid skeleton in an amount of from 10 to 90% by weight. The optical purity X (%) of the polyhydroxycarboxylic acid skeleton represented by the following formula is 80% or less: X(%)=|X(L-isomer)−X(D-isomer)| wherein X(L-isomer) and X(D-isomer) represent molar ratio (%) of L-isomer and D-isomer of the optically-active monomer, respectively. |
| US08632931B2 |
Electrophotographic photosensitive member, process cartridge, and electrophotographic apparatus
The present invention relates to an electrophotographic photosensitive member obtained by providing an intermediate layer and a photosensitive layer on a conductive support in the stated order, the electrophotographic photosensitive member being characterized in that the intermediate layer contains a specific polyolefin resin and a specific organic electron-transporting substance, and a process cartridge and an electrophotographic apparatus each having the electrophotographic photosensitive member. |
| US08632928B2 |
Water reactive hydrogen fuel cell power system
A water reactive hydrogen fueled power system includes devices and methods to combine reactant fuel materials and aqueous solutions to generate hydrogen. The generated hydrogen is converted in a fuel cell to provide electricity. The water reactive hydrogen fueled power system includes a fuel cell, a water feed tray, and a fuel cartridge to generate power for portable power electronics. The removable fuel cartridge is encompassed by the water feed tray and fuel cell. The water feed tray is refillable with water by a user. The water is then transferred from the water feed tray into the fuel cartridge to generate hydrogen for the fuel cell which then produces power for the user. |
| US08632926B2 |
Solid proton conductor including acid treated oxide nanoparticles and fuel cell including the same
Provided are a solid proton conductor and a fuel cell including the solid proton conductor. The solid proton conductor includes a polymer providing a proton source, and a polymer solvent providing a proton path. |
| US08632922B2 |
Systems and processes for operating fuel cell systems
The present invention is directed to systems and processes of operating molten carbonate fuel cell systems. A process for operating the molten carbonate fuel cell includes providing a hydrogen-containing stream comprising molecular hydrogen from a high temperature hydrogen-separation device to a molten carbonate fuel cell, wherein the high temperature hydrogen-separation device comprises one or more high temperature hydrogen-separating membranes; mixing at least a portion of hydrocarbons to be provided to, or provided to, a first reformer with anode exhaust from the molten carbonate fuel cell; at least partially reforming some of the hydrocarbons in the first reformer to produce a steam reforming feed; and providing the steam reforming feed to a second reformer, wherein the second reformer comprises the high temperature hydrogen-separation device or the second reformer is operatively coupled to the high temperature hydrogen-separation device, and the high temperature hydrogen-separation device is configured to produce at least a portion of the stream comprising molecular hydrogen provided to the molten carbonate fuel cell. |
| US08632921B2 |
Electrochemical cell with diffuser
An electrochemical cell includes a first electrode configured to operate as an anode to oxidize a fuel when connected to a load. The first electrode includes a permeable electrode body configured to allow flow of an ionically conductive medium therethrough. An electrode holder includes a cavity for holding the first electrode. A diffuser is positioned in the cavity between the first electrode and the electrode holder with a gap formed between the diffuser and the electrode holder. The diffuser includes openings configured to allow flow of the ionically conductive medium therethrough and to distribute the flow through the first electrode. A second electrode is positioned in the cavity on a side of the first electrode that is opposite the diffuser, and is configured to operate as a cathode when connected to the load and in contact with the ionically conductive medium. |
| US08632920B2 |
Air secondary battery
A main objective of the present invention is to provide an air secondary battery which can suppress the deterioration in charge-discharge properties caused by the oxygen generated in an air cathode layer at the time of charge. The present invention solves the problems by providing an air secondary battery which comprises: an air cathode which has an air cathode layer containing a conductive material and an air cathode current collector which collects current of the air cathode layer; an anode which has an anode layer containing an anode active material and an anode current collector which collects current of the anode layer; and a permeation preventing layer which is formed on the surface of the side of the anode layer of the air cathode layer, made of a nonaqueous polymer electrolyte, and which prevents the permeation of the oxygen generated in the air cathode layer at the time of charge. |
| US08632918B2 |
Electrolyte formulations for wide temperature lithium ion batteries
A non-aqueous rechargeable electrochemical cell includes an electrolyte composition produced through the dissolution of a thermally stable lithium salt in a lactone solvent. The resulting cell has stable performance in a wide temperature range between −40° C. and 80° C. The resulting cell operates across this wide temperature range with a commercially acceptable capacity retention, power loss characteristics, and safety characteristics across this temperature range. |
| US08632914B2 |
Triazolium and imidazolium salts and uses thereof
The present disclosure relates to certain new and known triazolium and/or imidazolium salts and to their therapeutic use, for example in methods of treating or preventing an infection by a Plasmodium or Babesia parasite in a subject in need thereof. The triazolium and imidazolium salts are compounds of the Formula (I) or (II): wherein R1-R4, R1′-R3′, R8-R11, X, X′, X″, Y, Y′ and Y″ are as defined in the disclosure. |
| US08632912B2 |
Battery including baffling member and sealing material that seals auxiliary terminal to lid plate
The present invention provides a battery that includes: an auxiliary terminal configured such that a first tube is connected to a metallic foil of an electrode of a power generating element through a current collecting connector by being fitted into a battery container through a terminal pull-out through hole of a lid plate, and sealed and fixed to the lid plate by insulating and sealing members; a connecting conductor configured such that one end portion is connected and fixed to an upper portion of the auxiliary terminal, and provided with a terminal through hole on the other end portion; an external terminal having a bolt portion that projects upward from a base portion and inserted through the terminal through hole of the connecting conductor from below; and a baffling member fixed onto the lid plate and restricting rotation of the external terminal by engaging with the base portion of the external terminal. |
| US08632910B2 |
Protection circuit board, secondary battery and battery pack
A protection circuit board, a secondary battery with the protection circuit board, and a battery pack comprising the secondary battery.A PTC device which is a secondary protection device is provided on the protection circuit board, and is installed in electrical connection with an electrode terminal of a bare cell of the secondary battery. According to a structural configuration where the PTC device is electrically connected to the bare cell while being installed on the protection circuit board, the PTC device sensitively responds to temperature changes of the bare cell to thereby cut off a flow of electric current. Due to such a structural configuration of the PTC device, formation of an electrode lead is excluded for electrical connection with the bare cell on the protection circuit board. Consequently, a pattern-forming area which is designed on the protection circuit board increases. |
| US08632909B2 |
Sheath for enclosing a pouch of a secondary battery
A secondary battery includes an electrode assembly having first and second electrodes and a separator, a pouch type case for receiving the electrode assembly, and a sheath for enclosing outer sides of the case. The sheath can prevent damage to the pouch in electronic devices to which the secondary battery is applicable as an inner pack type. |
| US08632908B2 |
Packing case comprising layers having different colors, secondary battery using the same, and method of manufacturing the secondary battery
A packing case for a battery including an inside layer, an outside layer, and a metal layer formed between the inside and outside layers, wherein the outside layer comprises at least one sub-layer having a color different than a color of the metal layer; and a secondary battery including the packing case; and a method of manufacturing the secondary battery. |
| US08632906B2 |
Battery-cell module structure of battery
A battery-cell structure of a battery is constructed to have a resinous spacer 5 with a frame shape surrounding thick central portions between a battery cell 3 arranged at an upper side and a battery cell 4 arranged at a lower side, and ventilation portions 62 and 64 that are provided in the resinous lower case 6 to communicate the exterior with depressed portions 61 of the resinous lower case 6 and have an up- and down symmetrical shape and size. It is constructed so that the battery cell 3 arranged at the upper side and the battery cell 4 arranged at the lower side are put in a vertical direction between the resinous lower case 6, the spacer 5 and the upper case 2. |
| US08632904B2 |
Method of producing electrode composite material
The invention relates to a method for producing a material for a composite electrode.The method is intended for the preparation of a composite material consisting of an active electrode material M1, a material C1 conferring electronic conductivity, an organic binder and a salt, said binder comprising a polymer P1 having an O, N, P or S heteroatom mass content of 15% or higher, a polymer P2 having an O, N, P or S heteroatom mass content of 5% or less, and a nonvolatile liquid organic solvent S1. It includes a step consisting in preparing a viscous solution containing at least one polymer P1, at least one polymer P2, a material C1, an active electrode material M1 and at least one nonvolatile solvent S1, and a step consisting in forming a film from the viscous solution obtained. |
| US08632903B2 |
Redox flow battery and method of operating the same
A redox flow battery in which a positive electrode electrolyte stored in a positive electrode tank and a negative electrode electrolyte stored in a negative electrode tank are supplied to a battery element to charge and discharge the battery is provided, the positive electrode electrolyte in the redox flow battery containing a Mn ion as a positive electrode active material, the negative electrode electrolyte containing at least one of a Ti ion, a V ion, and a Cr ion as a negative electrode active material, in which the redox flow battery includes a negative-electrode-side introduction duct in communication with inside of the negative electrode tank from outside thereof, for introducing oxidizing gas into the negative electrode tank, and a supply mechanism for supplying the oxidizing gas into the negative electrode tank via the negative-electrode-side introduction duct. |
| US08632900B2 |
Secondary battery
A secondary battery capable of being formed to be relatively small by reducing the sizes of internal devices and compactly locating the internal devices. Accordingly, the volume of the secondary battery is reduced and the capacity thereof is maintained, thereby increasing the capacity density of the secondary battery. In one embodiment, the secondary battery includes a bare cell having a cap plate and a protection circuit module on the bare cell and including a printed circuit board surface-contacting the cap plate. |
| US08632899B2 |
Battery pack
A battery pack is described. In one aspect it can securely connect a connecting tab extending from a protective circuit board and a sensing tab drawn out from a sensing terminal of each battery cell using a connection hook extending from a case. According to some embodiments, the battery pack may include a plurality of battery cells connected in series with respect to at least one sensing terminal arranged from a first large current terminal to a second large current terminal, a sensing terminal circuit including a sensing tab having a first throughhole formed inward and drawn out from the sensing terminal. a protective circuit module including a connecting tab having a second throughhole corresponding to the first throughhole formed inward and overlapping and electrically connected to the sensing tab. and a battery case for receiving the plurality of battery cells, the sensing terminal circuit and the protective circuit module. |
| US08632895B2 |
Coating for decorative metals with improved mar and scratch resistance and methods of application
Coated articles comprising a decorative metal substrate and a transparent cured coating thereon containing inorganic particles in which the concentration of particles in the exposed surface region of the cured coating is greater than the bulk region of the coating. Preferably, the transparent coating is applied by electrodeposition. |
| US08632889B2 |
Molded member made of form-stabilized material and method for the manufacture thereof
Molded member made of form-stabilized material, comprising at least one first component and one second component, characterized in that the second component has a different pigmentation than the first component and the second component is disposed inside the first element, forming a boundary surface, in such a way that the boundary surface represents a spatially curved surface. |
| US08632888B2 |
Coating solution, and gas barrier film, gas barrier laminate and gas barrier multilayer film, using the coating solution, and their manufacturing methods
A coating solution comprising: a first solvent; 0.1 to 30 parts by weight of a polycarboxylic acid-based polymer relative to 100 parts by weight of the solvent; 0.01 to 0.35 chemical equivalent of an alkali metal compound relative to an amount of carboxyl group in the polycarboxylic acid-based polymer; and 0.05 to 0.75 chemical equivalent of a multivalent metal compound relative to the amount of the carboxyl group, wherein a number average molecular weight of the polycarboxylic acid-based polymer is in a range of 40,000 to 10,000,000. |
| US08632886B2 |
Solar control glazing
A vehicle glazing comprises a pane of tinted glass, tinted by at least 1.0 to 1.8% wt. of total iron, having a low emissivity coating on its interior surface. The coating has an emissivity from 0.05 to 0.4 and may include a transparent conductive oxide (and optionally a dopant), or a metal layer and at least one dielectric layer. The glass is preferably toughened glass. According to another aspect, a laminated glazing includes two plies of glass, with a sheet of interlayer material laminated between the two glass plies, and wherein at least one ply of glass or the sheet of interlayer material is body tinted. The glazing has a low emissivity coating on its interior surface, the inner ply may be clear glass or tinted glass, and the interlayer material may be clear PVB or tinted PVB, and may further be infra-red reflecting. Either of the glazings may be used as a roof or other vehicle glazing. |
| US08632884B2 |
Nanocomposites
The invention describes a nanocomposite particle comprising a nanoparticle having a surface comprising a silver salt, and at least one region of metallic gold on said surface. The invention also provides a nanocomposite material comprising said particles and processes for making the nanocomposite material, either by allowing gold in nanoparticles having a silver salt on the surface thereof to at least partially diffuse through the silver salt so as to form at least one region of metallic gold on said surface, or else by depositing metallic gold on the surfaces of nanoparticles having the silver salt on the surface thereof. |
| US08632880B2 |
Aqueous pressure-sensitive adhesive composition and utilization thereof
Provided are a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) sheet having excellent foam repulsion resistance and an aqueous PSA composition suitable for preparing this sheet. The composition primarily comprises an acrylic polymer obtained by polymerizing a starting monomer material containing an alkyl(meth)acrylate as a main monomer and both acrylic acid and methacrylic acid. The acrylic polymer preferably has a weight average molecular weight of 65×104 to 100×104. The starting monomer material is preferred to further contain a silanol-forming monomer and polymerized without the silanol-forming monomer to produce a polymer having a gel fraction of 7 to 17 mass %. The post-crosslink PSA preferably has a gel fraction of 20 to 55 mass %. |
| US08632879B2 |
Lightweight thermal management material for enhancement of through-thickness thermal conductivity
A flexible sheet of aligned carbon nanotubes includes an array of aligned nanotubes held in a polymer matrix material. The carbon nanotubes have an average length of between about 50 microns and about 500 microns. The polymer matrix has an average thickness of between about 10 microns and about 500 microns. The flexible sheet has a density of about 0.2 to about 1.0 g/cc and includes between about 98 to about 60 weight percent aligned carbon nanotubes and between about 2 and about 40 weight percent polymer. A tape of aligned carbon nanotubes, a method for producing a tape of aligned carbon nanotubes, a method of producing the flexible aligned carbon nanotube sheet material and a method of increasing unidirectional heat conduction from a work piece are also disclosed. |
| US08632877B2 |
Ultra-thin photo-polymer coatings and uses thereof
The invention provides methods for forming ultra-thin hydrophilic polymeric coatings on articles, as well as articles formed therefrom. The coatings are formed by irradiating a composition including a polymer having pendent photoreactive groups while the composition is in contact with a surface of the article. |
| US08632871B2 |
Film for producing a sheet for a multilayer optical recording medium
A film for producing a sheet for a multilayer optical recording medium, the sheet having a repeating structure containing a plurality of laminated optical recording layers, the sheet has a structure including a unit wherein an optical recording layer and an adhesive layer are laminated or a structure including a unit wherein an optical recording layer, a barrier layer and an adhesive layer are laminated, and a maximum height roughness of the optical recording layer or the barrier layer is 500 nm or smaller, the optical recording layer or the barrier layer is disposed on a process film on a face at a side for forming the optical recording layer or at a side for forming the barrier layer, the face at the side for forming the optical recording layer or at the side for forming the barrier layer having a maximum height roughness of 500 nm or smaller. |
| US08632863B2 |
Polymer film, optically-compensatory film, process for producing the same, polarizing plate and liquid-crystal display device
A polymer film that has: a ratio R (VT/VM) of a sound velocity in a transverse direction VT to a sound velocity in a machine direction VM of from 1.05 to 1.50; and an in-plane retardation Re(λ) and a thickness-direction retardation Rth(λ) satisfying formula (I): (I) 0≦Re(630)≦10, and |Rth(630)|≦25, wherein Re(λ) represents an in-plane retardation at a wavelength of λ (nm); and Rth(λ) represents a thickness-direction retardation at a wavelength of λ (nm). |
| US08632856B2 |
Highly water repellent fluoropolymer coating
Highly water repellent coated articles may be made by applying to a substrate a coating having dispersed therein or sprinkled thereon partially or fully fluorinated polymer microparticles. The coating includes a partially fluorinated hexafluoropropylene copolymer binder in a nonfluorinated solvent that dissolves the binder and does not dissolve the microparticles. The coating is heated sufficiently to bond the microparticles to the binder but not so much as to cause the receding water contact angle for the coating to fall below 80°. |
| US08632855B2 |
Methods of preparing a graphene sheet
Methods of preparing a carbon-based sheet are provided, the methods include aligning carbon-containing materials on a substrate and forming the carbon-based sheet on the substrate by performing an annealing process on the substrate including the carbon-containing materials. The carbon-based sheet may be a graphene sheet. |
| US08632854B2 |
Substrate centering device and organic material deposition system
A substrate centering device for an organic material deposition system comprises: a plurality of substrate support holders configured to be reciprocally movable in a facing direction within an organic material deposition chamber and supporting both side portions of a substrate loaded by a robot; a substrate centering unit configured to be reciprocally movable at each of the substrate support holders and centering the substrate by guiding both side portions of the substrate; and a plurality of substrate clampers configured to be reciprocally movable in a vertical direction at each of the substrate support holders, and clamping the substrate that has been centered by the substrate centering unit. |
| US08632852B2 |
Method for producing a honeycomb filter
A method of producing a honeycomb filter using a production apparatus that includes: a workpiece securing section for securing a base of a honeycomb filter; a powder transfer section for transferring a powder together with a pressurized gas (e.g., air); an introduction section for introducing the powder that has transferred from the powder transfer section into the base secured by the workpiece securing section when the apparatus is used; a suction section for sucking the gas that has passed through the base secured by the workpiece securing section using suction means; a cleaning section for removing a surplus powder adhering to an end face of the base after the introduction of the powder; a judgment section for judging an amount of the powder adhering to the base; and a workpiece transfer section for transferring the base among the workpiece securing section, the cleaning section, and the judgment section. |
| US08632851B1 |
Method of forming an I-II-VI2 compound semiconductor thin film of chalcopyrite structure
A method of forming an compound semiconductor thin film of chalcopyrite structure includes the steps of heating up elemental VI powder in a first chamber to produce VI vapor flux. The VI vapor flow is introduced into a second chamber and an Argon plasma is utilized to crack large molecular VI fractions to generate small VI species. The small molecule VI species are homogeneously deposited on the metallic I-III precursor layers and the precursor film is sealed into a graphite box and transferred to an annealing chamber to create an absorber layer with a large grain size and good crystalline structure. |
| US08632850B2 |
Friction fabrication tools
The present invention relates to tooling and methods for disposing, coating, building up, repairing, or otherwise modifying the surface of a metal substrate using frictional heating and compressive loading of a consumable metal material against the substrate. Embodiments of the invention include friction-based fabrication tooling comprising a non-consumable member with a throat and a consumable member disposed in the throat, wherein the throat is operably configured such that during rotation of the non-consumable member at a selected speed, the throat exerts normal forces on and rotates the consumable member at the selected speed; and comprising means for dispensing the consumable member through the throat and onto a substrate using frictional heating and compressive loading. Embodiments of the invention also include fabrication methods using the tools described herein. |
| US08632849B2 |
Anti-counterfeit film with an amphichroic pattern and a preparation method thereof
An anti-counterfeit film comprising an amphichroic pattern is prepared by (1) mixing a polymerizable liquid crystal material of chiral structure and a photoinitiator, blade-coating the mixture on a base film and then drying; (2) partially exposing the resulting material produced in step (1) using a positioned UV lamp, then drying and exposing in an UV radiation to obtain a desired film. The film prepared by the method has an amphichroic pattern which typically presents a red and green picture when being vertically observed, the original red and green respectively changes into green and blue when being observed at a certain incline angel. The anti-counterfeit film is characterized by obvious color change, easy identification, practicability and convenience, thus facilitating promotion and application. |
| US08632848B2 |
Surface coating method for an orthodontic corrective bracket
A surface coating method for an orthodontic corrective bracket is provided, in which each orthodontic bracket formed of ceramic is covered with a titanium coating layer having a predetermined thickness so as to be able to minimize a frictional force and to increase surface hardness and durability while a wire fitted into slots of the brackets applies orthodontic tension to teeth. Accordingly, when the teeth are corrected using the ceramic orthodontic brackets on whose surfaces the titanium coating layer having a predetermined thickness is formed, the frictional force can be minimized while the wire fitted into the slots of the brackets is applying the orthodontic tension to the teeth, and thus it is possible to realize a tooth movement path desired by an orthodontist and to shorten a treatment period. |
| US08632844B2 |
Method for the manufacture of nerve regeneration-inducing tube
A method for manufacturing a nerve regeneration-inducing tube with excellent pressure resistance, shape recovery property, anti-kink property, film exfoliation resistance, resistance to invasion of outer tissues, and leakage resistance. The tubular body is formed by weaving together fibers made up of biodegradable polymer. The outer surface of the tubular body is coated multiple times with a collagen solution. The lumen of the tubular body is filled with collagen. Viscosity of the collagen solution that is first applied to the outer surface of the tubular body is between 2 to 800 cps. Viscosity of the collagen solution that is subsequently applied is higher than viscosity of the first applied collagen solution. |
| US08632839B2 |
Methods of forming self-supporting films for delivery of therapeutic agents
The present disclosure relates to self-supporting films for delivery of a therapeutic agent containing at least one hydrophobic polymer and at least one therapeutic agent. Methods of forming the self-supporting films are also disclosed. |
| US08632835B2 |
Fabricated food product made from fresh potato mash
A composition and method for providing a strong dough having a substantial quantity of fresh potatoes. Fresh potatoes are made into a mash and centrifuged to reduce the water content to about 70% by weight. Such potato mash can comprise over 50% by weight of the final dough. This dough can be used to make sheeted or extruded products. Such dough results in improved, more naturally-flavored products compared to products made entirely from dehydrated or partially-dehydrated potato derivatives. The method comprises finely slicing potatoes to form a potato slurry or mash; decanting excess water from the potato slurry; heating the potato slurry to a temperature no greater than about 190 degrees Fahrenheit; cooling the slurry to under 140 degrees Fahrenheit; and imparting a low amount of work input to a mixture of the slurry and other ingredients to form a shapeable dough. |