US08189168B2
An exposure apparatus exposes a substrate with an exposure light through an exposure liquid. The exposure apparatus includes an optical element from which the exposure light exits; a stage which is movable on the light-exit side of the optical element; a certain member which is provided on the stage; and a vibration generator which vibrates the certain member to apply vibration to the liquid in the liquid immersion space formed on the certain member. It is possible to suppress the deterioration of the performance which would be otherwise caused by any contamination.
US08189157B2
A liquid crystal display device including: a pair of substrates with a liquid crystal layer therebetween, one of the substrates carrying scanning lines and signal lines with a first insulation film therebetween adjacent to the liquid crystal layer, switching devices at vicinities of intersections of the scanning lines and the signal lines, an intermediate film overlying an entire surface of a displaying area, first electrodes connected to electrodes of the switching devices via contact hole portions positioned in each region defined by the scanning lines and the signal lines, second electrodes and a second insulation film between the first electrodes and the second electrodes, the electrodes of the switching devices are covered with the intermediate film; channel regions of the switching devices are covered with the second insulation film; and the second electrodes are connected to a common line on an external periphery of the displaying area.
US08189150B2
A liquid crystal display panel including a first substrate, a second substrate and a liquid crystal layer is provided. The first substrate includes a plurality of first unit regions, and each of the first unit regions includes at least a pixel region. A plurality of first alignment patterns are disposed in each of the pixel regions, wherein a width of the first alignment patterns in at least one first unit region is different from a width of the first alignment patterns in other first unit regions adjacent to the at least one first unit region. The second substrate is disposed opposite to the first substrate. The liquid crystal layer is disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate.
US08189147B2
A negative C plate (31) is arranged to be between a polarizing plate (32) and a reflective liquid crystal panel (20). A retardation of the negative C plate (31) is set so that a combination of the negative C plate (31) and the liquid crystal panel (20) generates a phase difference of “nλ/4+λ/8 (n is 0, or a positive or negative integer)” for a one-way light path with respect to linearly-polarized light entering into the liquid crystal display device. This makes it possible to provide, at low cost, a liquid crystal display device whose viewing angle can be narrowed by arbitrarily setting a direction in which visibility is limited.
US08189144B2
A liquid crystal display includes a pair of substrates and a liquid crystal layer interposed between the substrates and has a reflective area and a transmissive area. At least one of the substrates is provided with a retardation film whose phase difference differs between the reflective area and the transmissive area. Alternatively, at least one of the substrates is provided with a retardation film whose slow axis differs between the reflective area and the transmissive area.
US08189141B2
External light is reflected due to a difference in refractive indices of a black matrix and a glass substrate. When the black matrix is a black resin, there is a difference in refractive indices of the black resin and a first substrate. Also, there is a difference in refractive indices of the colored layer and the first substrate. Therefore, external light is slightly reflected. There is a problem in that the reflected light reduces contrast. A structure in which one polarizing element having dichroism is interposed between a pair of substrates is employed, and a light interference layer is provided between a color filter and a glass substrate, whereby a difference in refractive indices is moderated to reduce light reflection.
US08189122B2
In a method for automatic color wheel calibration in a projector, the color wheel includes three primary colors and a non-primary color. The method includes: enabling the projector to project the non-primary color, and measuring first optical physical amounts of the projected non-primary color; enabling the projector to project a combination color of the three primary colors having respective color level values, measuring second optical physical amounts of the projected combination color, and adjusting the respective color level values of the three primary colors according to respective values of differences between the first optical physical amounts and the second optical physical amounts; and repeating the above steps until each of the values of differences approximates zero, thereby obtaining color level values for the three primary colors to produce a combination color matching the non-primary color.
US08189120B2
A TV detects the capabilities of connected components to respond to various function commands. Subsequently, when a non-programmable remote control is used to select a component and then generate a function command, the TV determines if the component can respond to the command and if not, the TV dynamically alters the commanded function or the selected component.
US08189119B2
Techniques involving the reception of content are disclosed. For example, an apparatus may include a tuning detection module, a channel selection module, and a remote tuning module. The tuning detection module determines a local tuning of a user device. This determination may be made from a leakage signal (e.g., local oscillator (LO) leakage) generated by the user device. Based on the determined local tuning, the channel selection module selects an output channel from a remote digital tuner. The output channel may then be tuned by the remote tuning module for reception by the user device at its local tuning.
US08189117B2
In a receiver, a synchronization circuit (MIX2, OSC, C1, R1) provides a set of oscillator signals (OSI, OSQ) that are synchronized with a carrier of an amplitude-modulated signal. The set of oscillator signals (OSI, OSQ) comprises a quadrature oscillator signal (OSQ), which is substantially 90° phase shifted with respect to the carrier of the amplitude-modulated signal. A quadrature mixer (MIX2) mixes the quadrature oscillator signal (OSQ) with the amplitude-modulated signal so as to obtain a quadrature mixer output signal (MO2a). A phase-error corrector (PEC) adjusts the phase of the oscillator signals in response to a variation in the magnitude of an alternating current component (AC) in the quadrature mixer output signal (MO2a).
US08189115B2
An image device capable of reverse play with minimal time delay, and a method thereof. The image device includes a buffer to store a greater number of pictures than constitute a single group of pictures (GOP), and a controller to operate the buffer to store decoded pictures. Accordingly, problems such as cutoff of pictures or time delays are minimized when performing reverse play.
US08189104B2
An apparatus for creating an interpolation frame includes a first computing unit that computes a first motion vector in relation to a first block in a first reference frame, a second extracting unit that extracts a second block in a second reference frame based on the first motion vector, a first calculating unit that calculates a correlation between the first block and the second block, a third extracting unit that extracts a third block that is shifted from the second block by a certain number of pixels, a second calculating unit that calculates a correlation between the first block and the third block, and a third computing unit that computes a motion vector for an interpolation block based on a most-highly correlated block-pair.
US08189096B2
A video lighting system (100) for use with a personal computer or other electronic device (103) includes a display (105) that is used in connection with a microprocessor running facial recognition software that is used to prevent unauthorized access to the personal computer (103). A camera (107) is used for providing images to the facial recognition software where the display operates in a first mode for displaying images to a user and in a second mode for illuminating the user's face for detection by the camera (107).
US08189087B2
Usually, reduced images of past photographed images are displayed with a live view image. When a still image is photographed, the photographed image (post-view image) is displayed, and then an animation that allows a user to intuitively recognize that the image has been successfully photographed and the photographed image has been saved is displayed. Accordingly, a user of an imaging device can intuitively recognize that a photographed image has been successfully saved, and photograph a next image without performing any special operation on a camera.
US08189084B2
A solid state imaging device 1 includes a photodetecting section 10, a signal readout section 20, a controlling section 30, and a correction processing section 40. In the photodetecting section 10, M×N pixel portions each including a photodiode which generates charges as much as an incident light intensity and a readout switch connected to the photodiode are two-dimensionally arrayed in M rows and N columns. Charges generated in each pixel portion Pm,n are input into an integration circuit Sn through a readout wiring LO,n, and a voltage value output corresponding to the charge amount from the integration circuit Sn is output to an output wiring Lout through a holding circuit Hn. In the correction processing section 40, correction processing is performed for frame data repeatedly output from the signal readout section 20, and frame data after being subjected to the correction processing is output.
US08189083B2
A solid-state imaging device includes a semiconductor substrate having a pixel region including a photoelectric conversion portion, a wiring portion including a conductor line and disposed on the semiconductor substrate with an insulating film therebetween, a metal pad connected to the conductor line, a pad-coating insulating film coating the metal pad, and a waveguide material layer. The wiring portion and the pad-coating insulating film each have an opening therein over the photoelectric conversion portion, and the openings continue from each other to define a waveguide opening having an open side and a closed side. The waveguide material layer is disposed in the waveguide opening and on the pad-coating insulating film with a passivation layer therebetween. The pad-coating insulating film has a thickness of 50 to 250 nm and a face defining the opening. The face is slanted so as to diverge toward the open side of the opening.
US08189082B2
To provide a floating diffusion (FD) for converting accumulated electric charges to a voltage signal and a transistor in which a gate terminal is connected to the FD and a source terminal is connected to an output signal line. When the FD is reset, a power supply voltage is applied to the FD for a predetermined period to set a voltage of the output signal line as a first voltage, and thereafter, the set voltage of the output signal line is set as a second voltage higher than the first voltage.
US08189081B2
A solid-state imaging apparatus includes a plurality of unit cells, each including a plurality of pixels having mutually different color components and a first selecting unit outputting one of the signals from the plurality of pixels selectively. The unit cells are classified into groups. The solid-state imaging apparatus further includes holding units, each provided to each of the unit cells and holding the signal output from the first selecting unit, a plurality of common output lines for outputting signals of mutually different color components, and second selecting units, each selecting one of the plurality of common output lines to output the signals held in the holding unit to the selected common output line. The first selecting units severally output a signal of a different color component from each of the unit cell groups.
US08189074B2
A zoom lens system is provided that includes a compactly constructed focusing lens unit and that has a suppressed change in the image magnification at the time of movement of a focusing lens unit. The zoom lens system according to the present invention comprises a plurality of lens units and an aperture diaphragm arranged in the lens unit. The plurality of lens units include: a negative lens unit that is arranged on an object side relative to the aperture diaphragm and provided with negative optical power having an absolute value greatest in the entire system and that moves in a direction along an optical axis at the time of zooming; and a focusing lens unit that is arranged in an optical path between the negative lens unit and the aperture diaphragm and that moves in a direction along the optical axis at the time of focusing such that an interval relative to the negative lens unit should vary.
US08189069B2
An image processing apparatus is provided that determines a correction gain factor at a high rate of speed to synthesize an image. The apparatus includes a long second middle luminance image detecting unit for detecting a pixel having a pixel value in a first middle luminance pixel value region derived from a long second exposure image, a short second middle luminance image detecting unit for detecting a pixel having a pixel value in a second middle luminance pixel value region derived from a shorter second exposure image; a correction gain factor calculating unit for designating, as a common pixel, the pixel detected by the long second middle luminance image detecting unit and the pixel detected by the short second middle luminance image detecting unit, each of the pixels at a common position, and for calculating a correction gain factor based on the pixel values of the common pixels.
US08189057B2
Quantities of motion regarding an imaging device such as an electronic camera are calculated and used to adjust the exposure time and one or more other exposure parameters used to capture an image to improve the quality of the image. Motion blur caused by movement of the camera or by movement of an object within the scene being photographed is reduced by selecting appropriate exposure parameters. Further, when there is little or no motion detected, the exposure parameters may be selected to improve the depth of field and reduce the noise in the captured image.
US08189055B2
A digital photographing apparatus that is capable of detecting the shaking of the apparatus by using an autofocusing (AF) process and a method of controlling the digital photographing apparatus are provided. These involve calculating a first focal value while focusing on an object by performing the AF process and comparing the first focal value with a second focal value of a location on an image captured by actually photographing the object. This location corresponds to a location corresponding to the first focal value. As a result of these features, the shaking of the digital photographing apparatus can be detected.
US08189054B2
A motion estimation method is provided for processing successive images in an image sequence, with a motion vector being associated with each of the processed images. For a current image, motion vectors associated with images that precede the current image in the sequence are selected. Candidate motion vectors are generated from the motion vectors that are selected. A motion vector is elected from among the candidate motion vectors. Information that associates the elected motion vector with the current image is stored in memory. At least one of candidate motion vectors is an acceleration vector generated from the acceleration between first and second motion vectors averaged relative to a first and second images, with the first and second images being distinct and preceding the current image in the image sequence. A motion vector averaged relative to a given image is obtained from selected motion vectors associated with images preceding the given image.
US08189053B2
Disclosed are methods and apparatus for instructing persons using computer based programs and/or remote instructors. One or more video cameras obtain images of the student or other participant. In addition images are analyzed by a computer to determine the locations or motions of one or more points on the student. This location data is fed to computer program which compares the motions to known desired movements, or alternatively provides such movement data to an instructor, typically located remotely, who can aid in analyzing student performance. The invention preferably is used with a substantially life-size display, such as a projection display can provide, in order to make the information displayed a realistic partner or instructor for the student. In addition, other applications are disclosed to sports training, dance, and remote dating.
US08189051B2
Disclosed is a moving object detection apparatus and method by using optical flow analysis. The apparatus includes four modules of image capturing, image aligning, pixel matching, and moving object detection. Plural images are successively inputted under a camera. Based on neighboring images, frame relationship on the neighboring images is estimated. With the frame relationship, a set of warping parameter is further estimated. Based on the wrapping parameter, the background areas of the neighboring images are aligned to obtain an aligned previous image. After the alignment, a corresponding motion vector for each pixel on the neighboring images is traced. The location in the scene of the moving object can be correctly determined by analyzing all the information generated from the optical flow.
US08189047B2
The invention relates to an airborne laser image capturing system which comprises: (a) A laser source and laser focal plan array; (b) A pulse generator; (c) A scanning unit for providing to the gimbals a scanning signal for effecting a sequential stepping-scanning movement to scan an area in which the target is included; (d) A motion compensation unit; (e) A timing unit for: (e.i) Activating said pulse generator during a scanning period, thereby to produce over the target a series of illumination spots, each of said spots overlaps at least a portion of one or more adjacent spots; and (e.ii) Activating said laser focal plan array during the illumination of the target thereby to capture many of distinct spot-images (f) A correlating unit for correlating images; and (g) A combining unit for combining the spot-images to a complete image of the scanned area.
US08189045B2
A surveillance camera comprises a base mounted on a wall, an imaging lens mounted on the base via an imaging lens support member and a switchable mounting unit, and a rotation drive device driving the imaging lens so as to rotate in a panning direction. The switchable mounting unit selects either a first posture wherein a seating mount of the base, making contact with the wall, is approximately perpendicular to an axis of panning rotation of the imaging lens or a second posture wherein the seating mount is approximately parallel to the axis of panning rotation, and mounts the imaging lens support member on the base.
US08189034B2
A method of combined exchange of image data and related depth data is disclosed. The method comprises: converting an input image signal, representing the image data, comprising a predetermined number of input color components (R,G,B) into an output image signal comprising a luminance component and a chrominance component; combining the output signal with the related depth data into a combined signal, comprising the luminance component, the chrominance component and a depth component (D) which is based on the depth data; and transmission of the combined signal over a number of channels (108-112) which is equal to the predetermined number of input color components (R,G,B).
US08189032B2
A signal transfer arrangement is provided for conveying a signal from a first location to a second location. The signal transfer arrangement includes an articulated support structure rotatably mounted on a base located on a support surface. The support structure has a mobile collection device for receiving an input signal from at least one input emission device at the first location positioned on the support surface without contact between the collection device and the emission device, and transferring the input signal to the second location.
US08189029B2
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to compact portable video conferencing systems, which eliminate the need for other meeting room appliances for a video conference. The systems provide the freedom to hold video conferences with a few participants in any setting, e.g., a manager's office, a conference room, multiple locations, etc. Embodiments provide portable video conferencing systems, which allow all the meeting participants, including local and remote users, to maintain constant eye contact throughout the meeting. An embodiment of the invention provides a portable video conferencing system including a base, a dual-sided display and a camera unit.
US08189028B2
A method and apparatus for taking images while making a video call on a mobile communication terminal having a video call feature are provided. A method for taking images on a mobile communication terminal including a camera sensor for photographing an image to output an image signal and a signal processor receiving the image signal from the camera sensor to convert the image signal to image data includes determining whether there is a request to take an image during a video call and extracting, if there is a request to take an image, the image signal output from the camera sensor, converting the image signal to image data for storage, and storing the image data while performing the video call. The method enables production and storage of image data using a controller instead of a signal processor functioning for performing a video call, thus allowing high quality still or motion video image data to be taken and stored while making a video call.
US08189014B1
A system and machine-implemented method for generating a screen layout for a BIOS display on a computing system, via accessing a screen layout definition, wherein the screen layout definition identifies which of a plurality of stored images are to be included in a screen layout, defines an order for overlaying the identified images, and defines a position for placing each identified image within the screen layout; and processing the screen layout definition to generate the screen layout, using the order for overlaying the identified images and the position for placing each identified image as defined in the screen layout definition, for the BIOS display.
US08189005B2
Provided is a screen display control device including: a compression unit which compresses image data; a rewritable video memory in which the data compressed by the compression unit of image data of one frame including line data (Y (Y: natural number) pixels/one line) of X (X: natural number) lines is written asynchronously with reading; an expansion unit which expands the compressed data which is periodically read from the video memory in synchronization with a frame period of a screen display, and restores original image data; a display unit which displays an image of the image data expanded and restored by the expansion unit; an input image data holding unit which holds input image data of one frame including line data (X pixels/one line) of Y lines by M (M: natural number, M
US08188991B2
In one embodiment of the present invention, a driving TFT, a switching TFT, and an organic EL element are provided in series on a first path which connects a power source line and a common cathode. The switching TFT is provided on a second path which connects a node between the driving TFT and the switching TFT and a source wiring line. Further, the switching TFT is turned ON so as to cause the second path to be conductive and the switching TFT is turned OFF so that a branch extending from the node on the first path toward the organic EL element is caused to be non-conductive. As a result, it is possible to realize a display device and a driving method thereof whereby the contrast can be made higher than a conventional pixel circuit and deterioration of an electro-optical element can be suppressed.
US08188988B2
A finger navigation device is disclosed herein. An embodiment of the navigation device comprises a substrate; a light emitter located on the substrate; a photosensor located on the substrate; and a first cover located above the light emitter and the photosensor. The first cover has a first side and a second side, wherein the first side faces the substrate. A first lens is located in the first cover proximate the light emitter. An aperture is located in the first cover proximate the photosensor. A second cover faces the second side of the first cover and has a first surface proximate a transparent portion.
US08188986B2
A user input device to generate a shutter threshold adaptive to ambient light conditions. The user input device includes a sensor array, a shutter controller, and a threshold generator. The sensor array obtains image data in response to light incident on the sensor array. The shutter controller is coupled to the sensor array. The shutter controller controls a shutter time during which the sensor array is responsive to the light incident on the sensor array according to a shutter value. The threshold generator is coupled to the shutter controller. The threshold generator dynamically generates a shutter threshold corresponding to the shutter value. The shutter threshold defines a transition of a finger-on/off state.
US08188984B2
A display control unit (101) displays a key image, which serves as an operation target, etc. on a display unit. An area memory unit (103) stores a reception area (area information) corresponding to the displayed key image. A detecting unit (104) senses a user's touching operation and detects its touch position. A determining unit (105) makes determinations whether the detected touch position is within the range of the reception area stored in the area memory unit (103), etc. A time measuring unit (106) measures a time period that has elapsed since the touching operation. When a touching operation is detected, an area control unit (107) expands a reception area that includes the touch position to a predetermined range. Thereafter, the area control unit (107) reduces the expanded reception area to its original size when the time measuring unit (106) measures a predetermined time period.
US08188981B2
A haptic feedback touch control used to provide input to a computer. A touch input device includes a planar touch surface that provides position information to a computer based on a location of user contact. The computer can position a cursor in a displayed graphical environment based at least in part on the position information, or perform a different function. At least one actuator is also coupled to the touch input device and outputs a force to provide a haptic sensation to the user. The actuator can move the touchpad laterally, or a separate surface member can be actuated. A flat E-core actuator, piezoelectric actuator, or other types of actuators can be used to provide forces. The touch input device can include multiple different regions to control different computer functions.
US08188977B2
Provided is an operation input device to be attached to a base having a recessed portion including a side surface that faces one end of the base. The operation input device includes: a side surface portion formed into a shape corresponding to the side surface of the recessed portion; and first and second holding portions which fix the operation input device to the base by sandwiching the base, in which: a surface of one of the holding portions, which contacts the base, is bent toward the other holding portion; a tip end portion of the first holding portion moves toward an opposite side to the second holding portion, whereby the operation input device is attached to or detached from the base; and the side surface portion contacts with the side surface of the recessed portion, when the operation input device is attached to the base.
US08188972B1
The present invention is a method for providing a visual indicator which indicates functions of multi-purpose controls in a current cursor location context. The method includes providing a current cursor location context. The method further includes providing a visual indicator based on the current cursor location context. The visual indicator indicates a function of a multi-purpose control. The multi-purpose control is configured for allowing a user to interact with a cursor at the cursor's current location within the current cursor location context. Further, indicating the function of the multi-purpose control includes, prior to activation of the multi-purpose control, providing information regarding an interaction to take place with the cursor when the multi-purpose control is activated.
US08188967B2
A liquid crystal display has a liquid crystal panel, a gate chip on film (COF) disposed at a side of a side surface of the liquid crystal panel, side-edge-type backlights having a light emitting diode disposed on left and right side surfaces of the liquid crystal panel, and a cover and a frame that hold the liquid crystal panel and the backlights, the frame has an opening disposed at a position corresponding to the position of the gate COF into which the gate COF is inserted, and a lid for covering the gate COF inserted in the opening is connected to the frame in such a manner that the lid is capable of being opened and closed.
US08188965B2
A temperature sensing apparatus for a liquid crystal display device is disclosed. The apparatus can measure the device temperature without the existence of a conventional PN junction. The temperature sensing apparatus comprises at least one thin-film transistor (TFT) cell, a variable current source, a buffer and a sensing circuit. Each TFT cell has its respective drain and gate coupled together and a source coupled to a ground The variable current source is coupled to the drain of the TFT cell. The buffer has an input coupled to the drain of the TFT cell. The sensing circuit has an input coupled to an output of the buffer and an output to produce a voltage output signal. The temperature of the TFT cell is determined by inputting two currents at a sub-saturation region of the TFT cell and measuring voltage output signal difference.
US08188952B1
The present invention relates to a method and a system of reducing flicker in a liquid crystal display (LCD). The LCD produces a display based on a video signal. A gamma curve of the LCD includes multiple gamma reference voltages corresponding to multiple gray scale values of the video signal. The method (and a system implementing the method) includes determining the gamma curve of the LCD for producing a predetermined luminance performance, driving the LCD by a test pattern having one of the multiple gray scale values, measuring a flicker of the LCD driven by the test pattern, and adjusting a gamma reference voltage in the gamma curve based on the flicker measurement to minimize the flicker of the LCD where the gamma reference voltage corresponds to the gray scale value in the gamma curve.
US08188947B2
An organic light emitting display device including: a plurality of pixels, each of the pixels including an organic light emitting diode (OLED) and a pixel circuit for driving the OLED, the pixel circuit including: a first transistor for transferring a data signal supplied from a data line to a current scan line; a second transistor for controlling an amount of current corresponding to the data signal that flows from a first pixel power supply to the OLED; a third transistor for diode-connecting the second diode according to the current scan signal; a storage capacitor for maintaining a gate voltage of the second transistor in accordance with the data signal; and a fourth transistor for initializing a first node according to a previous scan signal supplied before the current scan signal is supplied, the fourth transistor in a pixel region of a previous row pixel.
US08188943B2
The invention provides an electro-optical apparatus that can prevent a shift in a threshold voltage of an amorphous silicon transistor while driving an organic EL device in a pixel circuit including the amorphous silicon transistor. A characteristic-adjustment circuit can be provided, which has a function of returning a shift in the threshold voltage of the amorphous silicon transistor included in the pixel circuit to the original state.
US08188930B2
An antenna device of a mobile terminal that can secure radiation performance is provided. The antenna device having a battery cover composed of a metal material includes a radiation unit for transmitting and receiving a signal, a feeding unit formed at an end portion of a first side of the radiation unit for electrically connecting the radiation unit to a Printed Circuit Board (PCB), and a ground part disposed a predetermined distance from the feeding unit and formed at a second side of the radiation unit. When the battery cover is fastened to the mobile terminal, the ground part contacts a first side of the battery cover.
US08188928B2
An antenna module is provided. The antenna module includes an antenna and an EBG element. The EBG element includes an EBG ground layer, a plurality of reflective units and a plurality of connection posts. The reflective units are arranged in a matrix, a gap is formed between the nearby reflective units, and the reflective units are corresponding to the antenna. Each connection post connects the reflective unit to the EBG ground layer.
US08188911B2
A signal generation system suitable for use in a radar system comprises a local oscillator (LO) and an intermediate frequency (IF) oscillator, wherein the IF oscillator is a Direct Digital Synthesizer (DDS), and the LO is a free running oscillator not itself locked to another oscillator but which acts as a clock reference for the DDS and is the highest frequency oscillator in the system. The LO may also act as a reference for a receive chain digitizer. The invention exploits phase noise advantages of a free running oscillator at some distance from the carrier whilst maintaining coherency with other system components. The system typically finds application in FMCW radars.
US08188903B2
A ramp wave output circuit includes a ramp wave generation circuit generating a ramp wave, and a low-pass filter having a variable cutoff frequency, which receives the ramp wave. The low-pass filter operates at a first cutoff frequency for a predetermined time period after the receipt of the ramp wave, and at a second cutoff frequency, which is larger than the first cutoff frequency, after the predetermined time period has passed.
US08188890B2
A display system for an aircraft includes a processing unit configured to receive data related to an aircraft profile and to supply display commands with symbology based on the aircraft profile; and a display device coupled the processing unit and configured to receive the display commands and operable to render a three-dimensional view with the symbology based on the aircraft profile. The symbology may include slope symbology.
US08188884B2
Systems and methods are provided for a utility meter assembly comprising: a plurality of meter components configured for measuring and collecting data, wherein the meter components include a transceiver operative for signal communications over a network; a faceplate, configured such that meter reading information is displayed on the front of the faceplate; an exterior cover configured to enclose the meter components and the faceplate, wherein the faceplate is forward of the plurality of meter components; and an internal dipole antenna situated within the exterior cover, wherein the internal dipole antenna is beyond the front of the faceplate and toward the front of the utility meter assembly. The internal dipole antenna is typically situated away from the meter components, so as to minimize interference by the meter components. The internal dipole antenna is typically tuned for optimal matching impedance in an 850 MHz or 1900 MHz receiving band, so that the desired receiving band Standing Wave Ration (SWR) is achieved, and also a specified minimum radiated power threshold is maintained.
US08188880B1
The present application discloses methods and systems for augmenting a field of view of a user. In one embodiment, a device may include a detector, a processor, and an array of visual indicators. According to an embodiment of the method, the detector may image an environment. The processor may identify within the environment imaged by the detector an object of interest. The processor may also determine a relative spatial location of the identified object of interest. Further, the array of visual indicators may be used to indicate the determined relative spatial location of the identified object of interest. In particular, a set of one or more visual indicators may be selected that has a relative spatial location in the array of visual indicators that is indicative of the relative spatial location of the identified object of interest.
US08188877B2
An audible playback device that allows an athlete, such as a runner, to conveniently listen to audible content and receive athletic performance information. A device may be employed to both playback audible content and provide monitored performance information to a user. The performance information may be provided to a user audibly, so that the user does not need to move the monitoring device's user interface to a viewable position, or visually. For example, if the user does not wish to interrupt the audible content, the user may elect to view athletic information visually on a display.
US08188869B2
A kit monitoring and tracking the location of at least one animal includes a GPS implant designed to be transplanted subcutaneously into an animal, and capable of communicating spatial information related to the location of the animal. A first receiver allows the user to receive the spatial information communicated from the GPS implant and related to the location of the animal. The first receiver is adapted to transmit the spatial information communicated from the GPS implant to a smartphone.
US08188866B2
A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag is coupled to a circuit board to track the specific operating and environmental conditions of each manufacturing stage as the circuit board passes through the manufacturing stages. An RFID reader and data collector are used at each stage to read the RFID tag and store its identifying information along with processing information, operating conditions, and results for each stage. This permits to quickly and accurately collect manufacturing information for each circuit board at various manufacturing stages as well as the operating conditions for each stage at a particular time. Such manufacturing metrics can then be retrieved on a stage-by-stage basis for a particular circuit board by an identifier printed on the circuit board.
US08188862B1
An apparatus for remotely detecting metal objects carried by a person includes an antenna and a signal generator coupled to the antenna operable to cause the antenna to emit a first electromagnetic signal to the person at a frequency that is known to be resonant with the human body. The apparatus further includes a data capture device operable to capture response signal energy received by the antenna, the response signal energy being provided from the person in response to the first electromagnetic signal. Processing circuitry for the apparatus is operable to determine whether the response signal energy is indicative whether or not the person is carrying an appreciable amount of metal, based on reference response templates for persons that are known to be metal-free.
US08188857B2
An authentication system for a wireless network is disclosed. The authentication system includes a card, a card reader, an end-user device, and a wireless access device. The card reader is coupled to the wireless access device. The card records a data, and the card reader reads the data recorded in the card. The wireless access device receives the data read by the card reader and performs authentication between the wireless access device and the end-user device according to the data.
US08188843B2
A haptic device comprising a base member (4), an end-effector (6), a parallel kinematics structure arranged between the base plate and the end-effector and providing at least three degrees of freedom including at least three translational degrees of freedom in relation to the end-effector, and at least one passive gravity compensation means being adapted to exert forces and/or torques on the parallel kinematics structure for at least partial compensation of gravity related forces and/or torques acting in at least one of the three translational degrees of freedom.
US08188827B2
An inductor component has electrode portions, a winding portion in which a conductor is wound by three or more turns, and lead portions located at both ends of the winding portion and connecting the winding portion and the electrode portions. Winding intervals of the respective turns in the winding portion decrease monotonically from one end to the other end of the winding portion.
US08188816B1
Compact high reflection and harmonic frequency impedance tuners use the slide screw principle and new slabline structures, either with three slots arranged at 120° to each other or four slots arranged in a cross form 90° to each other. The tuners comprise up to three and up to four mobile carriages correspondingly, which slide horizontally across the length of the slabline(s), each carriage holding one or two stepper motors and one or two conductive RF probes, which can be inserted into the corresponding slots of the slabline(s) and create adjustable reflection factors through capacitive coupling with the center conductor of the slabline(s). The length of the tuners is considerably reduced, since the probes share the same sections of slabline. The tuners can be used for wideband, high reflection and multi-frequency (harmonic) tuning.
US08188803B2
An apparatus and method for digital up converting in a mobile communication system are provided. The apparatus includes a Selectable Input Logic (SIL), a Scalable Clock Distribution Logic (SCDL), a filter logic, and a mixer logic. The SIL performs decimation at a decimation rate. The SCDL controls a clock frequency. The filter logic performs channel filtering for the decimated signal, and performs interpolation at an interpolation rate variable. The mixer logic up-converts the signal provided from the filter logic.
US08188800B2
A crystal oscillator having a plurality of quartz crystals that are manufactured so that the directional orientation of the acceleration sensitivity vector is essentially the same for each crystal. This enables convenient mounting of the crystals to a circuit assembly with consistent alignment of the acceleration vectors. The crystals are aligned with the acceleration vectors in an essentially anti-parallel relationship and can be coupled to the oscillator circuit in either a series or parallel arrangement. Mounting the crystals in this manner substantially cancels the acceleration sensitivity of the composite resonator and oscillator, rendering it less sensitive to vibrational forces and shock events.
US08188793B2
Systems and methods are described for detecting and correcting saturation in a power amplification circuit. An exemplary circuit comprises a power amplifier that provides an amplified output signal based upon an input signal and a gain control signal; a power detector that provides a detector signal indicative of the amplified signal magnitude; an error amplifier that generates the gain control signal based upon a setpoint signal and the detector signal; and a saturation detector that provides a saturation detection signal indicating whether gain control signal exceeds a reference signal. In another embodiment the circuit comprises an offset generator that provides a correction to the setpoint signal in response to the saturation detection signal indicating that the gain control signal exceeds the reference signal. In still another embodiment the circuit includes an offset cutoff circuit that freezes the correction to the setpoint signal in response to the correction exceeding a threshold.
US08188787B2
A demodulator for demodulating a modulated signal has a peak detector (206) with an input (100) coupled to receive the modulated signal and an output (207) to supply a peak detector output signal. The peak detector has a charge storer (314) coupled to the peak detector output so that the peak detector output signal is provided by a voltage across the charge storer (314) and a comparator (313) having a first comparator input coupled to the peak detector input to receive the modulated signal and a second comparator input coupled to the peak detector output to receive the peak detector output signal. The comparator (313) provides a comparison signal representing a comparison between the voltage of the modulated signal and the peak detector output signal. A charging controller (315, 316 and 318) charges the charge storer (314) so as to increase the output voltage when the comparator (313) provides a first signal indicating that the voltage of the modulated signal is higher than the voltage of the peak detector output signal and discharges the charge storer (314) so as to decrease the output voltage when the comparator (313) provides a second signal indicating that the voltage of the modulated signal is lower than the voltage of the peak detector output signal.
US08188784B1
A system for providing a desired power to a load. The system includes: a current detection module configured to generate a current signal based on a current flowing through the load; a voltage detection module configured to generate a voltage signal based on a voltage across the load; a multiplier module configured to generate an output signal based on an analog multiplication of i) the current signal and ii) the voltage signal; a comparing module configured to perform a comparison of the output signal to a power reference signal, wherein the power reference signal is based on the desired power; and a voltage source configured to control the voltage across the load based on the comparison of the output signal to the power reference signal.
US08188774B1
One embodiment relates to a method for activating an interface on an integrated circuit while a core of the integrated circuit is becoming operational. An offset calibration for a transceiver channel is performed by physical media attachment circuitry. A transmitting frequency is locked onto by a transmitter phase-locked loop for the transceiver channel, and a receiving frequency is locked onto by a receiver phase-locked loop for the transceiver channel. Subsequently, the interface is activated while a core component of the integrated circuit is becoming operational. Another embodiment pertains to an integrated circuit which includes transceiver channel circuits, an interface processor, and a reset control state machine. Another embodiment relates to control circuitry including a reset control state machine, transceiver channel circuits, a channel input steering multiplexer, and a channel output steering multiplexer. Other embodiments, aspects and features are also disclosed.
US08188773B1
The voltage-controlled dual-slope square and triangular waveform generator is an electronic circuit that includes a plus-type second-generation current conveyor operably connected to a single operational amplifier. At the input stage to the operational amplifier, two metal-oxide semiconductor (MOS) transistors are configured as switches. Three resistors and a grounded capacitor are included in the electronic circuit, thereby maintaining a low component count. The leading and trailing slopes of the waveform are independently adjustable by selection of the voltages V1 and V2 that are selectively connectable to the y-input of the CCII+ via switching action of the MOS transistors. The frequency of the waveform is adjustable via the voltage divider ratio between the output and noninverting input of the operational amplifier. The simple and elegant nature of the circuit design provides a low-cost waveform generator that can be adjusted both for frequency and for independent leading edge and trailing edge slopes.
US08188770B2
According to an aspect of the embodiment, a driver outputs a driver current to a reception LSI, and a receiver included in the reception LSI receives an analog voltage signal corresponding to a value of the driver current as a receiver input. An A/D converter converts the voltage signal of the receiver input to a digital value, and transmits the digital value to a driver current controller in a transmission LSI. The driver current controller adjusts a number of PMOS driving stages in the driver or a number of NMOS driving stages in the driver, to make the digital value of the voltage signal of the receiver input belong to a predetermined range.teh
US08188769B2
An output switch driving capability booster which may effectively reduce a propagation delay in an output switch with an independently controllable output transition change rate. A delay controller coupled to the output switch may be used to control the propagation delay. The delay controller may have a switch which may be switched on and off approximately simultaneously with the output switch, and a resistance device which may be adjusted to reduce the propagation delay.
US08188767B2
A complementary logic circuit contains a first logic input, a second logic input, a first dedicated logic terminal, a second dedicated logic terminal, a high-voltage terminal configured for connection to a high constant voltage a low-voltage terminal configured for connection to a low constant voltage, a p-type transistor, and an n-type transistor. The p-type transistor has an outer diffusion connection, a gate connection, an inner diffusion connection, and a bulk connection. The n-type transistor has an outer diffusion connection, a gate connection, an inner diffusion connection, and a bulk connection. The first dedicated logic terminal is connected to the outer diffusion connection of the p-type transistor, the second dedicated logic terminal is connected to the outer diffusion connection of the n-type transistor, the inner diffusion connection of the p-type transistor and the inner diffusion connection of the n-type transistor is connected to form a common diffusion logic terminal, the high-voltage terminal is connected to the bulk connection of the p-type transistor, and the low-voltage terminal is connected to the bulk connection of the n-type transistor.
US08188766B1
The present systems and methods extend the frequency range of a clock signal generated with a phase-locked loop (PLL). The PLL receives a reference signal from a reference signal divider and a feedback signal from a feedback signal divider. The PLL generates an output signal that is forwarded to a programmable divider. The programmable divider includes control logic, core logic, and post-processing logic. The control logic synchronizes signals distributed throughout the system to prevent metastability. The core logic generates a divide-by-N waveform that is forwarded to the post-processing logic. The post-processing logic generates a half duty cycle clock signal responsive to the divide-by-N waveform.
US08188759B2
A method and apparatus for testing a photovoltaic substrate disposes the substrate on a support gantry with connection points such as vacuum cups. The gantry is actuated into a test position. A probe nest coupled to the gantry connects to a junction box on the substrate. A power supply applies voltage to the junction box, and an actuated frame contacts an edge region of the substrate to detect any breakthrough current. The actuated frame comprises a liner for maximizing contact with the edge of the substrate. The liner may be conductive, or may have a conductive surface. Current sensors coupled to the conductive liner of the frame detect any breakthrough current. A solar spectrum simulator provides solar spectrum radiation for testing the photovoltaic properties of the substrate.
US08188754B2
A capacitive sensing system are configured to sense a capacitance value and convert the sensed capacitance value to a digital format. The capacitive sensing system provides good selectivity and immunity to noise and interference, which can be further enhanced by enabling spread spectrum excitation. In some embodiments, the capacitive sensing system utilizes a sinusoidal excitation signal that results in low electromagnetic emissions, limited to narrow frequency band. In some embodiments, the capacitive sensing system is configured to operate in a spread spectrum mode, in which the majority of the excitation signal power is carried in the assigned bandwidth. The excitation frequency and the bandwidth of the spread spectrum excitation signal are programmable in a wide range, which allows for avoiding frequency conflicts in the operating environment.
US08188753B2
Some general aspects of the invention relate to a circuit and to a method for analog computation, for example, using switched capacitor integrated circuits. In some examples, a circuit includes a first group of capacitors and a second group of capacitors that may store charges during circuit operation. The first and/or the second group of capacitors may include multiple disjoint subsets of capacitors. An input circuit is provided for receiving a set of input signals and for inducing a charge on each of some or all capacitors in the first group of capacitors according to a corresponding input signal. Switches, for example, transistors controlled by a sequence of clock signals, are used to couple different sets of capacitors. Different configurations of the switches are used to form different sets of the capacitors among which charge can redistribute.
US08188752B2
An apparatus for measuring component performance including a feed line having an input port and an output port, a first resonator connected to the feed line, a first Josephson junction device connected to the first resonator and to ground, and a second resonator connected to the feed line and to ground.
US08188745B2
A method for determining the location of an underground sonde transmitter is disclosed. In some embodiments, the method includes measuring a set of complex electromagnetic field magnitude and phase strengths at one or more of positions while traversing a target sonde path at any angle using one or more electromagnetic coil sensors, modeling a set of expected complex electromagnetic strengths of a hypothetical sonde at the one or more of positions for one or more of the electromagnetic coil sensors, the set of expected electromagnetic field values corresponding to a model for the target sonde, and estimating parameters related to the target sonde based on the residual error between the measured set of complex electromagnetic field values and the modeled set of expected complex electromagnetic field strengths, wherein a final estimated parameter set is determined after the residual error has converged to a minimum tolerance.
US08188743B2
According to a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) apparatus, each of buttons provided in a plurality of sections included in a receiving coil receives from an operator a selecting operation of selecting a section in which the button itself is provided. A control unit of a computer system moves a table on which a subject is placed such that the center of the section selected by receiving the selecting operation via the button is positioned at the center of a magnetic field.
US08188741B2
By using a temperature monitor, a coil-dedicated chiller measures an amount of change in temperature of cooling water flowing out from a cooling pipe of a gradient magnetic field, determines an amount of change in temperature of cooling water to be flowed into the cooling pipe in accordance with the measured amount of change in temperature of the cooling water; and changes the temperature of cooling water to be flowed into the cooling pipe of the gradient magnetic field based on the determined amount of change in temperature.
US08188738B2
In a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus, an event generating substrate included in a sequence control unit generates an event code to make an instruction for switching a receiving path during a scan based on scanning conditions that are set in advance of the scan. When the event code is generated, a radio-frequency switch-matrix substrate of a gantry unit switches the receiving path that connects a receiving coil and a receiving circuit.
US08188723B2
Preferred embodiments of the present invention are a switching converter, an integrated circuit package, and method for controlling a switching converter. An embodiment of the invention is a switching converter comprising a first compensation network having a first node coupled to an error voltage and a second node coupled to electrical ground and a second compensation network having an input coupled to the error voltage. A frequency domain transfer function of the first compensation network comprises a first zero and a plurality of first poles, and a frequency domain transfer function of the second compensation network comprises a second zero and a second pole.
US08188722B2
An easy LSB tuning method is proposed for a digitally controlled DC-DC converter to increase the DC gain of the digitally controlled DC-DC converter under conditions of no-limit-cycle and a finite bit number to reduce steady-state error of the digitally controlled DC-DC converter. The LSB of one or more of the coefficients in the denominator of the discrete-time domain transfer function of the digital compensator in the digitally controlled DC-DC converter is so tuned that the sum of all coefficients in the denominator of the discrete-time domain transfer function becomes zero. Therefore, the influence of round-off effect on the coefficients of the digital compensator is mitigated.
US08188719B2
Provided is a voltage regulator capable of stable operation under a light load so as to cover a wide range of load capacitances. The voltage regulator includes a circuit for charging a phase compensation capacitor for the voltage regulator, and a zero due to a resistor (104) and a capacitor (106) appears at low frequency.
US08188718B2
A battery charger with a self-contained power source which provides a current charging signal at or near the resonant frequency of the battery to be charged when no other power supply is readily available. A storage energy device, for example a battery, delivers a current charging signal modulated at or near the resonant frequency of a load, or stores energy from a source.
US08188714B2
A system for maintaining a large number of Handheld Electronic Devices is implemented as a carrying case having circuitry configured to connect to the Handheld Electronic Devices to enable the HEDs to be charged and synchronized. The carrying case has a central area configured to hold the circuitry for charging and synchronizing the HEDs, and a pair of divider structures on either side of the central area to hold the HEDs in a protective manner while stored in the carrying case. A grounded protective coating is applied to the interior of the carrying case to dissipate electromagnetic radiation generated by the circuitry and/or HEDs within the carrying case.
US08188711B2
A charger is adopted to charge a first-type battery pack and a second-type battery pack, each type of battery packs having an insertion portion whose shapes are different. The charger is provided with a housing having a battery pack socket for inserting the battery packs. The battery pack socket has a shape that allows the insertion portion of the first-type battery pack and the insertion portion of the second-type battery pack to be inserted thereto selectively in a prescribed attitude. A pair of output terminals that output charging power is disposed within the battery pack socket. The pair of output terminals is electrically connected to the first-type battery pack when the insertion portion of the first-type battery pack is inserted into the battery pack socket in the prescribed attitude. Likewise, the pair of output terminals is electrically connected to the second-type battery pack when the insertion portion of the second-type battery pack is inserted into the battery pack socket in the prescribed attitude.
US08188705B2
The present invention is a charge method of a battery for an electric motor vehicle, in which a battery is charged by an outside electric source. A residual charge quantity of the battery is detected before charging. A maximum-quantity charge time Ttotal which is required for the residual charge quantity of the battery becoming the maximum quantity is calculated based on detection result. A driving-start time tds of the electric motor vehicle is estimated. A first charge is executed so as to be started from a driving stop of the electric motor vehicle, continued for a period of time which is shorter than the maximum-quantity charge time Ttotal, and completed before the driving-start time tds. A second charge is executed so as to be started after the first charge is completed and completed at the driving-start time tds.
US08188701B2
There are provided a smoothing capacitor (71) for storing an induced electromotive force generated by a three-phase induction motor (5), a regenerative transistor (81 to 86) for switching a terminal voltage of the smoothing capacitor to carry out a power regenerating operation over a three-phase AC power supply (3), a line voltage detecting portion (6) for detecting a line voltage of the three-phase AC power supply, a fundamental waveform generating portion (10) for generating, from a signal output from the line voltage detecting portion, a fundamental waveform defined to be a line voltage waveform of the three-phase AC power supply in which a source voltage distortion component is not mixed, a base driving signal creating portion (7) for creating a base driving signal to be used for an ON/OFF control of the regenerative transistor based on a signal output from the fundamental waveform generating portion, and a base driving signal output portion (9) for outputting the base driving signal.
US08188688B2
The invention comprises a charged particle beam acceleration, extraction, and/or targeting method and apparatus used in conjunction with charged particle beam radiation therapy of cancerous tumors. Novel design features of a synchrotron are described. Particularly, turning magnets, edge focusing magnets, concentrating magnetic field magnets, winding and control coils, flat surface incident magnetic field surfaces, and extraction elements are described that minimize the overall size of the synchrotron, provide a tightly controlled proton beam, directly reduce the size of required magnetic fields, directly reduces required operating power, and allow continual acceleration of protons in a synchrotron even during a process of extracting protons from the synchrotron.
US08188684B2
A portable device includes a light emission unit to emit light on a case, a clocking unit to clock time, an information acquisition unit to acquire information indicating a position and/or a state necessary for illuminating the light emission unit, and a control unit to determine whether to illuminate the light emission unit by using timekeeping information acquired from the clocking unit and the information indicating a position and a state acquired from the information acquisition unit, and to control the light emission unit under either a light emission state or an extinction state from a result of the determination.
US08188682B2
The present invention contemplates a variety of improved techniques for the fast switching of current through, among others, LED loads. A current shunting device is utilized to divert current away from a load at high speed when activated, thus enabling the control of the amount current that flows through the load.
US08188670B2
A light emitting device which can emit light of an arbitrary color temperature and a process for producing a light emitting device which can emit light of an arbitrary color temperature are provided. Such a light emitting device includes a first light emitting diode device (2) and a second light emitting diode device (3) which are connected together in parallel, and a power-supply apparatus (4) which is capable of reversing polarity, in which the color temperature of the first light emitting diode device (2) is set to be higher than the color temperature of the second light emitting diode device (3).
US08188664B1
A compact mercury-free high intensity discharge (HID) lamp particularly suitable for automotive headlamp application has a pair of spaced and opposing electrodes sealed in a transparent enclosure defining an arc chamber. An outer transparent envelope has a first and second textured light scattering stripe on its interior surface on substantially opposite sides thereof extending continuously from one electrode to the other. The stripes widen the cross-sectional luminance distribution of the arc discharge image and make the image of the arc straighter while keeping light scattering losses at minimum so that the reduced arc peak luminance is still at the desired level. In other versions, a plurality of textured light scattering stripes of smaller widths are employed to replace a single wider light scattering stripe.
US08188663B2
A high intensity discharge lamp comprising a discharge vessel having a wall enclosing a discharge space, an ionizable material contained in said space, and at least two electrodes each having an embedded portion and an electrode shaft extending from the wall of the discharge vessel and ending with a tip of the electrode, the electrodes being arranged in said space for establishment of an electric arc between said tips. Each of the electrode shafts of the electrodes comprises a thickened portion arranged between the embedded portion and the tip of the electrode, a first shaft section extending between the embedded portion and the thickened portion, the first shaft section having a first length and a first shaft diameter, and a second shaft section extending between the thickened portion and the tip of the electrode, the second shaft section having a second length and a second shaft diameter. The thickened portion has a greater overall diameter than any of the first and second shaft diameters thereby having a higher specific surface than the specific surface of the first shaft section and the specific surface of the second shaft section, respectively, and being arranged to limit the temperature of the electrode shaft at the inner wall by heat dissipation. The thickened portion has a minimum distance from the inner wall of at least 50% of the first shaft diameter, the length of the second shaft section is at least 100% of the second shaft diameter, and the first length is at most equal to the second length.
US08188658B2
Disclosed is a lamp, particularly for a vehicle headlight, comprising two spiral-wound filaments which are retained by three feeders within a bulb that is inserted into a base. The feeders are arranged on top of one another when the lamp is adequately oriented. A tail of the first spiral-wound filament is connected to a dimming cap, said tail being located at a distance from the base, while a tail of the second spiral-wound filament is connected to the central feeder, said tail being close to the base. The second filament tail that faces away and is located at a distance from the base is connected to the upper feeder. According to the invention, the lower feeder is connected to the dimming cap by means of an end, some sections of which are angled away from a longitudinal axis of the lamp.
US08188653B2
An electro-optical device that drives each of plural pixels individually arranged in two dimensions so as to display information, is provided with a group of pixels displaying the information within an effective display region among the plural pixels arranged in two dimensions. A group of plural pseudo-pixels that do not contribute to the display of the information are located adjacent to a group of pixels within the effective display region. A bank layer separates a pixel in the group of the plural pseudo-pixels from a pixel in the group of pixels in the effective display region, and shields light leaked from a space between pixels located adjacently each other within the effective display region.
US08188651B2
Provided is an organic light emitting apparatus that prevents voltage drop due to thin electrode and improves shock resistance. The organic light emitting apparatus includes a substrate, a first electrode formed on the substrate, an organic light emitting layer formed on the first electrode, a second electrode formed on the organic light emitting layer, and a conductive component disposed on the second electrode. The conductive component includes carbon nano-tubes.
US08188642B2
A spark plug 1 includes an insulator 2, a metal shell 3, a center electrode 5 and a ground electrode 27. A spark discharge gap 33 is formed between a front end portion 28 of the center electrode 5 and the ground electrode 27. The metal shell 3 has a through hole 29 therein and a metal convex portion 21 inwardly radially projecting in the through hole 29. The metal convex portion 21 includes a convex rearward face 30, a convex inner circumferential face 31 and a convex forward face 32. The through hole 29 has an inner diameter A (mm) at a front end side inner circumferential face 40, which is located at the front end side with respect to the convex forward face 32. The insulator 2 is inserted in the through hole 29 and has a first insulator taper portion 14, a second insulator taper portion 36 and a base 37 between the taper portions. The present invention satisfies the following representations: G≦(A−B)/2; A≧7.3; and 2≦XX≦4, where “B” (mm) is an outer diameter of a border K between an insulator front end portion 38 and the second insulator taper portion 36, where “G” (mm) is a distance of a spark discharge gap 33, and where “XX” (mm) is a length from a very-end portion FF of the convex inner circumferential face 31 to the border K in the axial C1 direction.
US08188639B2
A piezoelectric element includes a substrate, and a lower electrode layer, a piezoelectric layer, and an upper electrode layer sequentially formed on the substrate. The substrate has a linear thermal expansion coefficient higher than that of the piezoelectric layer, and the piezoelectric layer includes a polycrystalline body having an in-plane stress in a compressive direction. Thus, the piezoelectric element realizes the piezoelectric layer having a high orientation in a polarization axis direction, high proportionality of a displacement amount with respect to an applied voltage, and a large absolute value of the displacement amount.
US08188635B2
A SAW resonator which, using a quartz crystal substrate with Euler angles (−1.5°≦φ≦1.5°, 117°≦θ≦142°, and 42.79°≦|105|≦49.57°, includes an IDT which excites a stop band upper end mode SAW, and grooves hollowed out of the substrate positioned between electrode fingers configuring the IDT, wherein, when the wavelength of the SAW is λ and the depth of the inter-electrode finger grooves is G, λ and G satisfy the relationship of 0.01λ≦G and wherein, when the line occupation rate of the IDT is η, the groove depth G and line occupation rate η satisfy the relationships of −2.0000×G/λ+0.7200≦η≦−2.5000×G/λ+0.7775 provided that 0.0100λ≦G≦0.0500λ, −3.5898×G/λ+0.7995≦η≦−2.5000+G/λ+0.7775 provided that 0.0500λ
US08188632B2
A type-A winding represented by a triangle of solid lines is connected to commutator segments such that its one end is connected to an arbitrary commutator segment and its other end is connected to a commutator segment adjacent to the arbitrary commutator segment. A type-B winding represented by a diamond of broken lines is connected to commutator segments such that its one end is connected to a commutator segment located radially opposite to a usual adjacent commutator segment. The type-A windings and the type-B windings are used in combination. One short circuit wire is used for every short circuit connection of radially opposed commutator segments. A total number of the short circuit wires is half (5) the number (10) of commutator segments. Thus, the number of electric wires hooked at every commutator segment can be reduced to two or less. Also, continuous winding by use of one or two wires is possible.
US08188631B2
A rotor for an electrical machine includes a first shaft part and a second shaft part, which is arranged separately from the first shaft part. A first supporting element is connected in a manner fixed against rotation to the first shaft part, and a second supporting element is connected in a manner fixed against rotation to the second shaft part. The rotor has a yoke which connects the first supporting element to the second supporting element and includes a plurality of laminates arranged one behind the other, and which has cutouts extending in the direction of the axis of rotation in the interior of the yoke, and permanent magnets arranged in the cutouts. The yoke has holes extending in the direction of the axis of rotation, with tensioning pins extending through the holes in the yoke to brace the laminates.
US08188629B2
A magnetic transmission assembly is adapted to integration with a motor or generator. The magnetic transmission assembly includes a rotor, a stator, and a magnetically conductive element. The rotor and the stator are sleeved coaxially and respectively have R and ST1 pole pairs. The magnetically conductive element is located between the rotor and the stator, and has steel pieces. When the magnetically conductive element is actuated, the magnetically conductive element selectively enables PN1 or PN2 steel pieces to be corresponding to the rotor and the stator. The steel pieces corresponding to the rotor and the stator interact with magnetic fields of the R and ST1 pole pairs to generate a predetermined variable-speed ratio. The magnetic transmission assembly can be integrated into the motor, so as to improve the drive power density.
US08188627B2
A temperature protection device for a brushless DC Motor, wherein a thermal fusing type protector is provided at a depression formed on a casing of the plastic-packaged brushless DC Motor. In this way, the thermal fusing type protector can be provided conveniently at a position where the casing temperature is highest after plastic packaging, and if the protector is fused due to high temperature, it can be replaced easily.
US08188621B2
An apparatus and method for restricting operation of a power delivery system are disclosed. In at least some embodiments, the apparatus includes a first input terminal at which is received a first command signal, and a second input terminal at which is received an additional signal. The apparatus further includes an output terminal at which is provided a control signal, and a circuit that generates the control signal based at least indirectly upon the first command and additional signals. The control signal generated by the circuit is configured to cause the power delivery system to not deliver at least one type of power when the first command signal indicates a command to do so, if the additional signal indicates an acceptability status. In some embodiments, the power delivery system is an isolation system (e.g., safety isolation system) as are employed in industrial environments, and the apparatus is a permissive module.
US08188620B2
A system including an array of solar cells having positive and negative rails. A plurality of intermediate nodes are positioned adjacent positive and negative rails of solar cells in the array of solar cells. A plurality of switches are positioned to couple positive nodes to positive rails, couple negative nodes to negative rails and couple positive and negative rails to intermediate nodes.
US08188613B2
An integrated turbine generator/motor (10) which consists of a housing (20) having a cylindrical body (22) and an eyebolt retaining plate (24) attached to the top surface of the cylindrical body (22). A ring gear (26) is rotatably disposed adjacent to the eyebolt retaining plate (24) and a plurality of turbine blades (28) are joined to turbine blade brackets (30) that are attached onto a peripheral edge of the ring gear (26). A plurality of pinion gears (32) rotatably interface with the ring gear (26) and a plurality of planetary gears (50) are connected beneath and are rotated by the pinion gears (32). When the generator/motor (10) functions as a generator (58) it includes a driven shaft (60) with a sun gear (62) attached, with the generator disposed within the housing. The sun gear (62) is rotated by the planetary gears (50) which create electrical energy from the generator by rotation of the ring gear (62). When the generator/motor is used as a motor electrical energy is supplied to the motor which can power a watercraft (94) or a motor vehicle (92).
US08188609B2
A miniature hydro-power generation system includes a hydro-power generator, a processor and an energy storage device. A flow of liquid may be used to rotate the hydro-generator to generate electric power. The processor is configured to monitor a level of the electric power generated by the hydro-power generator and a level of charge stored in the energy storage device. The processor is further configured to selectively charge and discharge the energy storage device based on the level of charge of the energy storage device, and the level of electric power generated by the hydro-power generator. The electric power generated by the hydro-power generator is selectively used to charge the energy storage device, and the energy storage device is selectively discharged to supply a load.
US08188602B2
To provide a semiconductor device having copper wiring layers and organic insulating resin layers with less separation and its manufacture method.A semiconductor device has: a semiconductor substrate formed with a number of semiconductor elements; a first interlayer insulating film formed above the semiconductor substrate and having a first wiring recess; a first copper wiring embedded in the first wiring recess; a second interlayer insulating film having a second wiring recess, the second interlayer insulating film including a copper diffusion preventing layer formed on the first copper wiring and the first interlayer insulating film, an oxide film formed on the copper diffusion preventing layer, and an organic insulating resin layer formed on the oxide film; and a second copper wiring embedded in the second wiring recess.
US08188601B2
A semiconductor subassembly is provided for use in a switching module of an inverter circuit for a high power, alternating current motor application. The semiconductor subassembly includes a wafer having first and second opposed metallized faces; a semiconductor switching device electrically coupled to the first metallized face of the wafer and having at least one electrode region; and an interconnect bonded to the semiconductor switching device. The interconnect includes a first metal layer bonded to the at least one electrode region of the semiconductor switching device, a ceramic layer bonded to the first metal layer, the ceramic layer defining a via for accessing the first metal layer, a second metal layer bonded to the ceramic layer, and a conducting substance disposed in the via of the ceramic layer to electrically couple the first metal layer to the second metal layer.
US08188597B2
A fixture assembly and method of forming a chip assembly is provided. The fixture assembly includes a first plate having an opening sized to accommodate a chip mounted on a laminate. The fixture assembly further includes a second plate mated to the first plate by at least one mechanical fastening mechanism. The fixture assembly further includes a space defined by facing surfaces of the first plate and the second plate and confined by a raised stepped portion of at least one of the first plate and the second plate. The space is coincident with the opening. The space is sized and shaped such that the laminate is confined within the space and directly abuts the stepped portion and the facing surfaces of the first plate and the second plate to be confined in X, Y and Z directions.
US08188595B2
System, method, and apparatus for two phase cooling in light-emitting devices are disclosed. In one aspect of the present disclosure, an apparatus includes a light-emitting device and a two-phase cooling apparatus coupled to the light-emitting device. The coupling of the two-phase cooling apparatus and the light-emitting device is operatively configured such that thermal coupling between the light-emitting device and the two-phase cooling apparatus enables, when, in operation, heat generated from the light-emitting device to be absorbed by a substance of a first phase in the two-phase cooling apparatus to convert the substance to a second phase.
US08188589B2
A semiconductor product is constructed of a wiring substrate in which pads for pin connection are formed, and a substrate with pins in which pins are disposed. The substrate with the pins is formed so that one end of the pin is exposed to one surface of a resin substrate formed by resin molding and the other end of the pin extends from the other surface of the resin substrate and one end of the pin is bonded to a pad of the wiring substrate through a conductive material.
US08188577B2
The present invention provides a production method of a semiconductor device, involving formation of a flattening layer and easy process for layers formed on a semiconductor layer, and also provides a semiconductor device preferably produced by such a production method.The present invention further provides an exposure apparatus preferably used in such a production method. The present invention is a production method of a semiconductor device including a semiconductor layer and a flattening layer on a substrate, the flattening layer surrounding the semiconductor layer when the substrate is viewed in plane, the production method comprising the steps of: forming the semiconductor layer on the substrate; forming a photosensitive organic film on the semiconductor layer, the photosensitive organic film having a photosensitive wavelength range overlapping with an absorption wavelength range of the semiconductor layer, and forming a flattening layer by exposing the photosensitive organic film from a side of the substrate to light having a wavelength range corresponding to the photosensitive wavelength range of the photosensitive organic film, thereby developing the photosensitive organic film.
US08188576B2
A compound for filling small gaps in a semiconductor device, a composition for filling small gaps in a semiconductor device, and a method of fabricating a semiconductor capacitor, the compound including hydrolysates prepared by hydrolysis, in the presence of an acid catalyst, of compounds represented by Formulae 1, 2, and 3: [RO]3Si—[CH2]nR′ (1) wherein, in Formula 1, n is an integer from 0 to about 10, and R and R′ are each independently a hydrogen atom, a C1-C12 alkyl group, or a C6-C20 aryl group; HOOC[CH2]nR2Si—O—SiR′2[CH2]nCOOH (2) wherein, in Formula 2, each n is independently an integer from 0 to about 10, and R and R′ are each independently a C1-C12 alkyl group or a C6-C20 aryl group; and R3Si—O—X (3) wherein, in Formula 3, X is R′ or SiR′3, and R and R′ are each independently a C1-C12 alkyl group or a C6-C20 aryl group, or a polycondensate prepared by polycondensation of the hydrolysates represented by Formulae 1, 2, and 3.
US08188575B2
Apparatus and methods for uniform metal plating onto a semiconductor wafer, such as GaAs wafer, are disclosed. One such apparatus can include an anode and a showerhead body. The anode can include an anode post and a showerhead anode plate. The showerhead anode plate can include holes sized to dispense a particular plating solution, such as plating solution that includes gold, onto a wafer. The showerhead body can be coupled to the anode post and the showerhead anode plate. The showerhead body can be configured to create a seal sufficient to substantially prevent a reduction of pressure in the plating solution flowing from the anode post to holes of the showerhead anode plate.
US08188564B2
A method for manufacturing a semiconductor device including a thin film device unit including a TFT, and a peripheral device unit provided around the thin film device unit and including a semiconductor element, includes a first step of preparing a substrate, a second step of bonding the peripheral device unit directly to the substrate, and a third step of forming the thin film device unit on the substrate to which the peripheral device unit is bonded.
US08188563B2
Techniques and apparatus for using single photon avalanche diode (SPAD) devices in various applications.
US08188549B2
A metal supplying an N well voltage is provided in a first metal interconnection layer. The metal is electrically coupled to an active layer provided in an N well region by shared contacts so that the N well voltage is supplied to the N well region. A metal supplying a P well voltage is provided in a third metal interconnection layer. The metal supplying the N well voltage is formed using a metal in the first metal interconnection layer and thus does not require a piling region to the underlayer, and only a piling region to the underlayer of the metal for the P well voltage needs to be secured. Therefore, the length in the Y direction of a power feed cell can be reduced thereby reducing the layout area of the power feed cell.
US08188546B2
Disclosed are embodiments of a semiconductor structure that includes one or more multi-gate field effect transistors (MUGFETs), each MUGFET having one or more semiconductor fins. In the embodiments, a dopant implant region is incorporated into the upper portion of the channel region of a semiconductor fin in order to selectively modify (i.e., decrease or increase) the threshold voltage within that upper portion relative to the threshold voltage in the lower portion and, thereby to selectively modify (i.e., decrease or increase) device drive current. In the case of a multiple semiconductor fins, the use of implant regions, the dopant conductivity type in the implant regions and/or the sizes of the implant regions can be varied from fin to fin within a multi-fin MUGFET or between different single and/or multi-fin MUGFETs so that individual device drive current can be optimized. Also disclosed herein are embodiments of a method of forming the semiconductor structure.
US08188528B2
A memory device is provided that in one embodiment includes a trench capacitor located in a semiconductor substrate including an outer electrode provided by the semiconductor substrate, an inner electrode provided by a conductive fill material, and a node dielectric layer located between the outer electrode and the inner electrode; and a semiconductor device positioned centrally over the trench capacitor. The semiconductor device includes a source region, a drain region, and a gate structure, in which the semiconductor device is formed on a semiconductor layer that is separated from the semiconductor substrate by a dielectric layer. A first contact is present extending from an upper surface of the semiconductor layer into electrical contact with the semiconductor substrate, and a second contact from the drain region of the semiconductor device in electrical contact to the conductive material within the at least one trench.
US08188523B2
An insulated gate field effect transistor, a solid-state image pickup device using the same, and manufacturing methods thereof that suppress occurrence of a shutter step and suppress occurrence of punch-through and injection. An insulated gate field effect transistor having a gate electrode on a semiconductor substrate with a gate insulating film interposed between the semiconductor substrate and the gate electrode, and having a source region and a drain region formed in the semiconductor substrate on both sides of the gate electrode, the insulated gate field effect transistor including: a first diffusion layer of a P type formed in the semiconductor substrate at a position deeper than the source region and the drain region; and a second diffusion layer of the P type having a higher concentration than the first diffusion layer and formed in the semiconductor substrate at a position deeper than the first diffusion layer.
US08188520B2
A method for fabricating a field effect transistor includes: forming an insulating film provided on a semiconductor layer, the insulating film having an opening via which a surface of the semiconductor layer is exposed and including silicon oxide; forming a Schottky electrode on the insulating film and in the opening, the Schottky electrode having an overhang portion and having a first contact layer that is provided in a region contacting the insulating film and contains oxygen, and a second contact layer that is provided on the first contact layer and contains a smaller content of oxygen than that of the first contact layer; and removing the insulating film by a solution including hydrofluoric acid.
US08188519B2
A solid-state imaging device that includes: a pixel array section configured by an array of a unit pixel, including an optoelectronic conversion section that subjects an incoming light to optoelectronic conversion and stores therein a signal charge, a transfer transistor that transfers the signal charge stored in the optoelectronic conversion section, a charge-voltage conversion section that converts the signal charge provided by the transfer transistor into a signal voltage, and a reset transistor that resets a potential of the charge-voltage conversion section; and voltage setting means for setting a voltage of a well of the charge-voltage conversion section to be negative.
US08188518B2
A thin film transistor structure of a pixel is provided. In the present invention, a first metal layer serves as a gate electrode, and the gate electrode includes an extending gate electrode portion. A second metal layer includes a drain electrode partially and respectively overlapping the gate electrode and the gate electrode portion with the amorphous silicon layer interposed therebetween so as to form a first parasitic capacitor and a second parasitic capacitor. The total capacitance of the first parasitic capacitor and the second parasitic capacitor is invariable to withstand deviation caused by vibration of the machine in the photolithographic process, so that undesired effects in the liquid crystal display panel such as mura and flicker can be reduced.
US08188517B2
A three-dimensional nonvolatile memory device includes: a plurality of channel structures extending in parallel in a first direction and comprising a plurality of channel layers that are alternatively stacked with a plurality of interlayer insulating layers over a substrate; a plurality of memory cells stacked along sidewalls of the channel structures and arranged in the first direction and a second direction crossing the first direction; and a plurality of word lines extending in parallel in the second direction and connected to the memory cells arranged in the second direction.
US08188504B2
Provided are a light-emitting device and a method for manufacturing the same. The light-emitting device includes a substrate, a light-emitting device, a protection device, and a connecting line. The light-emitting device is formed on one part of the substrate, and includes a first semiconductor layer and a second semiconductor layer. The protection device is formed on another part of the substrate, and includes a fourth semiconductor layer and a fifth semiconductor layer. The connecting line electrically connects the light-emitting device and the protection device.
US08188503B2
An illumination apparatus is provided having a panel including a plurality of circuit units on a dielectric surface. The circuit units include electrically conductive traces and at least one light emitting diode (LED). At least some of the circuit units have contacts for supplying power to the LED. The circuit units are preferably electrically interconnected so that power provided to one circuit unit also supplied power to at least a group of the circuit units. The apparatus with the circuit units may be cut or shaped to a predetermined or desired shape. Also provided are methods of manufacturing, assembling, and using the illumination apparatus.
US08188500B2
An organic light-emitting element includes a first electrode, a second electrode, and at least one organic compound layer disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The organic compound layer includes a light-emitting layer containing a light-emitting material and being configured to emit light toward the first electrode and the second electrode. The light emitted toward the first electrode is reflected from a reflection plane located at the first electrode to cause interference with the light emitted toward the second electrode. The interference provides an interference intensity distribution having a maximum peak at a wavelength λ1. The light-emitting material of the light-emitting layer exhibits a photoluminescence spectrum having a maximum peak at a wavelength λ2. The organic light-emitting element produces an electroluminescence spectrum having a maximum peak at a wavelength λ3. These wavelengths satisfy the relationships: λ2≠λ3 and |λ2−λ3|<|λ2−λ1|.
US08188499B2
The present invention relates to a polarized light emitting diode (LED) device and the method for manufacturing the same, in which the LED device comprises: a base, a light emitting diode (LED) chip, a polarizing waveguide and a packaging material. In an exemplary embodiment, the LED chip is disposed on the base and is configured with a first light-emitting surface for outputting light therefrom; and the waveguide, being comprised of a polarization layer, a reflection layer, a conversion layer and a light transmitting layer, is disposed at the optical path of the light emitted from the LED chip; and the packaging material is used for packaging the waveguide, the LED chip and the base into a package.
US08188491B2
Light-emitting elements have a problem that their light-extraction efficiency is low due to scattered light or reflected light inside the light-emitting elements. The light-extraction efficiency of the light-emitting elements needs to be enhanced by a new method. According to the present invention, a light-emitting element includes a first layer generating holes, a second layer including a light-emitting layer for each emission color and a third layer generating electrons between an anode and a cathode, and the thickness of the first layer is different depending on each layer including the light-emitting layer for each emission color. A layer in which an organic compound and a metal oxide are mixed is used as the first layer, and thus, the driving voltage is not increased even when the thickness is increased, which is preferable.
US08188488B2
A light emitting die package is provided which includes a metal substrate having a first surface and a first conductive lead on the first surface. The first conductive lead is insulated from the substrate by an insulating film. The first conductive lead forms a mounting pad for mounting a light emitting device. The package includes a metal lead electrically connected to the first conductive lead and extending away from the first surface.
US08188481B2
A display panel includes a plurality of pads, a plurality of first contacts connected to the pads, a plurality of second contacts provided so as to be opposed to the plurality of first contacts, a polysilicon layer configured to form a plurality of polysilicon films to connect the plurality of first contacts and second contacts, and a gate metal layer. The gate metal layer forms at least one gate metal. The gate metal layer traverses the plurality of polysilicon films so as to form a plurality of transistors. The plurality of transistors are arranged in a zigzag pattern for each transistor set. A width of a portion of each of the polysilicon films, the portion forming a corresponding one of the transistors, is larger than a width of another portion of the polysilicon films. The other portion is connected to a corresponding one of the first contacts and second contacts.
US08188478B2
A display device includes a main body, a support stand, and a display portion. The display portion includes a pixel having a TFT and a capacitor. The capacitor includes a capacitor electrode on an insulating surface, an insulating film on the capacitor electrode, and a pixel electrode of the TFT on the insulating film.
US08188477B2
As a display device has higher definition, the number of pixels is increased and thus, the number of gate lines and signal lines is increased. When the number of gate lines and signal lines is increased, it is difficult to mount IC chips including driver circuits for driving the gate lines and the signal lines by bonding or the like, whereby manufacturing cost is increased. A pixel portion and a driver circuit for driving the pixel portion are provided on the same substrate, and at least part of the driver circuit comprises a thin film transistor including an oxide semiconductor sandwiched between gate electrodes. A channel protective layer is provided between the oxide semiconductor and a gate electrode provided over the oxide semiconductor. The pixel portion and the driver circuit are provided on the same substrate, which leads to reduction of manufacturing cost.
US08188475B2
An organic electroluminescent device includes a first substrate including a plurality of pixel regions; a thin film transistor on the first substrate and in each pixel region; a second substrate facing the first substrate; an organic electroluminescent diode on the second substrate and connected to the thin film transistor; a seal pattern at edges of the first and second substrates; and an adhesive layer including a plurality of conductive balls, an inner space defined by the first substrate, the second substrate and the seal pattern filled with the adhesive layer.
US08188465B2
A method of manufacturing a semiconductor device includes: forming a plurality of regions extending in a predetermined direction on a substrate; and ejecting a liquid material on the plurality of regions to form an electrically conductive film, wherein the electrically conductive film extends in the same direction as the plurality of regions so as to overlap the plurality of regions.
US08188457B2
A light emitting device includes a substrate, a first cladding layer, an active layer, and a second cladding layer formed in that order, and a reflective part formed above the substrate and separated from the active layer. At least a portion of the active layer constitutes a plurality of gain regions, which forms at least one gain region pair, a first gain region of which is provided in one direction and a second gain region is provided in another direction different from the one direction. At least a portion of an end surface of the first gain region and the second gain region overlap with each other. Light emitted from the end surface of the first gain region is reflected by the reflective part, and propagates in the same direction or in the focusing direction with light emitted from the end surface of the second gain region.
US08188455B2
An information recording/reproducing device includes a recording layer, and a recording circuit which records data to the recording layer by generating a phase change in the recording layer. The recording layer includes a first chemical compound having a spinel structure. The recording layer is AxMyX4 (0.1≦x≦2.2, 1.0≦y≦2.0), where A includes one selected from a group of Zn, Cd and Hg, M includes one selected from a group of Ti, Zr, Hf, V, Nb and Ta, and X includes O.
US08188451B1
Contamination may be removed from an emitter tip of a field emitter during operation of the emitter tip in a system having an electron beam column having an electrode with a beam defining aperture, an electron collector located proximate to the beam defining aperture between the electrode and the field emitter, and an electron deflector located between the emitter tip and the electron collector. At regular predetermined intervals an electron beam from the emitter tip may be deflected away from a path through the beam defining aperture and onto the electron collector. An electron beam current to the electron collector may be determined and the emitter tip may be flash heated if the current to the electron collector is below a threshold.
US08188450B2
The invention relates to a multiple be charged particle optical system, comprising an electrostatic lens structure with at least one electrode, provided with apertures, wherein the effective size of a lens field effected by said electrode at a said aperture is made ultimately small. The system may comprise a diverging charged particle beam part, in which the lens structure is included. The physical dimension of the lens is made ultimately small, in particular smaller than one mm, more in particular less than a few tens of microns. En further elaboration, a lens is combined with a current limiting aperture, aligned such relative to a lens of said structure, that a virtual aperture effected by said current limiting aperture in said lens is situated in an optimum position with respect to minimizing aberrations total.
US08188447B2
A method includes dividing a semiconductor wafer into a plurality of dies areas, generating a map of the semiconductor wafer, scanning each of the plurality of die areas of the semiconductor wafer with a laser, and adjusting a parameter of the laser during the scanning based on a value of the die areas identified by the map of the semiconductor wafer. The map characterizing the die areas based on a first measurement of each individual die area.
US08188445B2
An ion source includes an arc chamber having an extraction aperture, and a plasma sheath modulator positioned in the arc chamber. The plasma sheath modulator is configured to control a shape of a boundary between a plasma and a plasma sheath proximate the extraction aperture, wherein the plasma sheath modulator includes a semiconductor. A well focused ion beam having a high current density can be generated by the ion source. A high current density ion beam can improve the throughput of an associated process. The emittance of the ion beam can also be controlled.
US08188438B2
An electrokinetic microfluidic flow cytometer apparatus can include a substrate, a pair of signal and noise detection channels, and a particle detection circuit. The substrate includes an input port, an output port, and a microchannel that fluidly connects the input port and the output port to allow fluid to flow therebetween. The signal and noise detection channels are defined in the substrate and are fluidly connected to the microchannel from locations that are adjacent to each other. The signal and noise detection channels extend in opposite directions away from the microchannel to receive ambient electrical noise. The particle detection circuit generates a particle detection signal in response to a differential voltage across the signal and noise detection channels, which tracks changes in resistivity across an adjacent portion of the microchannel while at least substantially canceling a common component of the ambient electrical noise.
US08188437B2
Upon detection of radiation by using a (three-dimensional) detector capable of distinguishing a detection position in a depth direction and energy, an energy window for distinguishing between a signal and noise is changed depending on the detection position in the depth direction, thus making it possible to obtain scattering components inside the detector. Alternatively, a weight is given to a detection event depending on the detection position in the depth direction and energy information to obtain scattering components inside the detector. Thereby, scattering components inside the detector can be obtained to increase the sensitivity of the detector. In this case, different detecting elements can be used depending on the detection position in the depth direction.
US08188434B2
Systems and methods for generating, projecting or correlating thermal spectra use digital micro-mirror devices (DMDs) to controllably modulate input radiation such as long wave infrared light. An optical system for creating an output spectrum based upon an input light suitably includes a grating configured receive the input light and to spread the input light by wavelength into an input spectrum. A digital micro-mirror device (DMD) is configured to receive the input spectrum and to controllably activate mirrors in the DMD corresponding to selected wavelengths of the input light. Portions of the input light having selected wavelengths can be extracted from remaining portions of the input light for the output spectrum. By selecting and activating only certain mirrors on the DMD, particular wavelengths of light in infrared or other spectra can be optically switched for any number of subsequent applications, including spectral projection, simulation of solar or other spectra, detection of chemical substances, or the like.
US08188427B2
A method and apparatus for alignment and astigmatism correction for a scanning electron microscope can prevent an alignment or correction error attributable to the conditions of a particular specimen. First, a difference is determined between optimal values acquired from an automatic axis alignment result on a standard sample, and those obtained from each of a plurality automatic axis alignment results on a observation target sample. An optimal value is then adjusted using the standard sample, by use of the difference thus obtained. Correspondingly, an optimal stigmator value (astigmatism correction signal) is acquired by using the standard sample, and storing the optimal stigmator value as a default value. The optimal stigmator value and the default value depending on the height of an observation target sample pattern are added, and an astigmatism correction is performed on the basis of the resultant stigmator value.
US08188420B2
Disclosed are various embodiments of front-end analog circuitry for use in conjunction with optical encoders. Highly accurate analog output signals are provided by front-end analog circuitry in incremental or absolute motion encoders to interpolation circuitry, which is capable of providing high interpolation factor output signals having high timing accuracy. The disclosed interpolation circuits may be implemented using CMOS or BiCMOS processes without undue effort.
US08188416B2
In various embodiments, microengineered phantoms with microvascular networks serve as calibration standards for perfusion imaging systems.
US08188414B2
A grid support system for tracker-mounted solar panel array for rooftop applications includes a base frame having a plurality of interconnected lateral members which define a generally planar area substantially parallel with the rooftop. The system also includes a set of support legs corresponding to each one of the tracker devices. The set of support legs are secured to the lateral members and extend upward and inward toward one another to a respective tracker mounting plate. The tracker mounting plate supports a tracker device and associated solar panel(s). A plurality of ballast trays are secured to the base frame and are adapted to hold a plurality of ballast weights for applying a downward force on the base frame to stabilize and resist movement of the base frame.
US08188412B2
A confocal microscope includes an objective lens for converging light which is emitted from a light source to a sample, a scanning mechanism for relatively scanning the sample with the light converged to the sample, and a plurality of confocal diaphragm apertures that are arranged at positions optically conjugate to the light-gathering position of the objective lens and have different diaphragm diameters. The confocal microscope further includes a plurality of photodetectors for detecting the intensities of lights respectively transmitting through the confocal diaphragm apertures, and a weighting/combining arithmetic processing unit for combining signals output from the photodetectors after weighting the signals.
US08188408B2
A conveyorized oven that provides uniform cooking with control of the heater and/or the conveyor belt speed. The oven includes a controller that monitors power consumption of the heater and uses the power consumption to control the heater and/or the speed of the motor that drives the conveyor belt. The power consumption is monitored by counting the on time cycles of a switch that connects and disconnects the heater to a power main. Changes in the power consumption due to changes in loading are used by the controller to reduce recovery times of the oven temperature to a set temperature by controlling the heater and/or the motor. By using a stepper motor, there is no need for a gear box.
US08188398B2
A press switch is composed of a base, a light-emitting device, a housing, a movable seat, and a pressing element. Due to the flat surfaces of the base and the ribs of the movable seat, the area of contact between the base and the movable seat is reduced. In addition, due to the ribs of the movable seat and the flat surfaces of the housing, the area of contact between the movable seat and the housing is also reduced. These reduced areas of contact allow the pressing element to be pressed stably and smoothly.
US08188395B2
The invention relates to an electrical switch for an electrical appliance, in particular for an electrical tool, such as a drill, a grinder, a saw, a plane, an angle grinder or the like, and having a housing. The switch has a contact system which is located in the housing, and electrical connections, which lead into the housing and/or are located in the housing, for electrical supply lines to the contact system. Furthermore, the switch may have an operating member for switching action on the contact system, with the contact system being operatively connected to the operating member by means of an elastic element. The electrical connections have seals.
US08188394B2
A universal termination system is provided for power tools. The universal termination system includes criteria for each of the main switch platforms that define the number, type, location and orientation of the terminations. That is, the number, type, location and orientation of the terminations in each main switch platform are standardized and the power tools that use that type main switch platform use the main switch platform having the standardized terminations. That is, power tools that use push button switches use the push button switch with the standardized terminations, power tools that use overhang switches use the overhang switch with the standardized terminations, and power tools that use in-line VSR switches use the in-line VSR switch with the standardized terminations. In an aspect of the invention, a right-angle pin terminal is received in one or more sets of the standardized terminations. In an aspect of the invention, the switch body has features that cooperate with the right-angle pin terminals to reduce the risk of shorting adjacent terminals. In an aspect of the invention, a switch has standardized connections on a bottom of a switch body that mate with terminals of a plug-in control module. In an aspect of the invention, a switch for a hand-held power tool has cord set terminations that are screw-tab terminals.
US08188381B2
A module retention and electromagnetic interference (EMI) cage has a substantially flat, rectangular metal frame with retaining clip portions and EMI-shielding contact fingers. The frame has surface-mount legs to facilitate surface mounting the cage to the circuit board. An array connector is mounted on the circuit board within a central region of the cage. An electronic module can be inserted or plugged into the cage in conjunction with connecting the module to the array connector. As the module is inserted into the cage, the module resiliently deflects the EMI-shielding contact fingers. At approximately the same time as the connector of the electronic module mates with the array connector, the retaining clip portion mates with a portion of the housing to retain the module in this position.
US08188380B2
A printed wiring board and a method for manufacturing the same are provided. The printed wiring board includes a resin insulation layer having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, and includes an opening for a first via conductor. An electronic-component mounting pad is formed on the first surface of the resin insulation layer. The electronic-component mounting pad includes a portion embedded in the resin insulation layer and a portion protruding from the resin insulation layer. The protruding portion covers the embedded portion and a portion of the first surface of the resin insulation layer that surrounds the embedded portion. A first conductive circuit is formed on the second surface of the resin insulation layer. A first via conductor is formed in the opening of the resin insulation layer and connects the electronic-component mounting pad and the first conductive circuit.
US08188378B2
An interposer having a support substrate, a first insulation layer made of an inorganic material and formed over the support substrate, and a second insulation layer formed over the first insulation layer. The first insulation layer has a first land, a second land and a first wiring electrically connecting the first land and the second land. The second insulation layer has a first pad positioned to load a first electronic component, a second pad positioned to load a second electronic component, a second wiring electrically connected to the second pad, a first via conductor electrically connecting the first land and the first pad, and a second via conductor electrically connecting the second land and the second wiring. The first wiring and second wiring electrically connect the first pad and the second pad, and the second wiring has a lower wiring resistance per unit length than the first wiring.
US08188370B2
A multilayer insulated electric wire, containing: a conductor; and extruded insulation layers; wherein an outermost layer (A) is composed of an extruded layer containing a thermoplastic polyester-series resin composition which contains 75 to 95 mass parts of a polyester resin other than a liquid crystal polyester, and 5 to 25 mass parts of a liquid crystal polyester, wherein an innermost layer (B) and at least one insulating layer (C) between the outermost and innermost layers each are composed of an extruded layer containing a thermoplastic polyester resin, in which an entirety or a part of the thermoplastic polyester resin is formed by allowing an aliphatic alcohol component and an acid component to cause polycondensation, and in which the number of carbon atoms of the aliphatic alcohol component is 2 to 5.
US08188359B2
A thermoelectric generator assembly includes a thermoelectric generator with hot and cold junction flanges. The hot junction flange includes an adapter shaped for thermally coupling to a process vessel. The thermoelectric generator producing a thermoelectric power output. A heat sink thermally couples to ambient air and has a heat sink flange. A heat pipe assembly includes fluid in a circulation chamber. The circulation chamber has an evaporator flange mounted to the cold junction flange and a condenser flange mounted to the heat sink flange. At least a portion of the fluid transports heat from the evaporator flange to the condenser flange. When a heat pipe assembly on a cold junction flange is used with many of the types of heat flows that are available in process industries, more efficient thermoelectric power generation can be provided in the process industries.
US08188353B2
A guitar sound hole guard comprising of a body of a suitable durable material to resist pick impacts and having a lip and at least one flange; the lip further having two side edges; each flange connects to a respective side edge to be oriented perpendicular to the lip and descending away from the lip, an open channel being formed by the lip and flange; an attachment means to hold the guard in place upon a soundboard of a guitar, wherein the body receives within its open channel at least a portion of a lower sound hole edge of the sound board allowing the lip to rest upon and conform concentrically to at least the portion of the lower sound hole edge.
US08188346B2
The cotton variety ST 4498B2RF is disclosed. The invention relates to seeds, plants, plant cells, plant tissue, harvested products and cotton lint as well as to hybrid cotton plants and seeds obtained by repeatedly crossing plants of variety ST 4498B2RF with other plants. The invention also relates to plants and varieties produced by the method of essential derivation from plants of ST 4498B2RF and to plants of ST 4498B2RF reproduced by vegetative methods, including but not limited to tissue culture of regenerable cells or tissue from ST 4498B2RF.
US08188339B2
Isolated nucleic acids and proteins associated with lipid and sugar metabolism regulation are provided. In particular, lipid metabolism proteins (LMP) and encoding nucleic acids originating from Arabidopsis thaliana, Brassica napus, and Physcomitrella patens are provided. The nucleic acids and proteins are used in methods of producing transgenic plants and modulating levels of seed storage compounds. Preferably, the seed storage compounds are lipids, fatty acids, starches, or seed storage proteins.
US08188336B2
Rice having reduced levels of starch branching enzymes produce grain having a high relative amylose content in the endosperm. The rice grain of this invention can be of a non-shrunken phenotype despite a lesion in the amylopectin synthesis pathway and may be transgenic or nontransgenic.
US08188332B2
The invention refers to a disposable cover for use in an incubator for premature infants comprising a moisture-pervious surface layer and a preferably moisture-impervious back sheet, wherein the total weight of the cover before use is communicated to the caregiver by indication on said cover, a label accompanying said cover or on the package for said cover. The cover may further be provided with a wetness indicator.
US08188328B2
The present invention is an improved cyclic, endothermic hydrocarbon conversion process and a catalyst bed system for accomplishing the same. Specifically, the improved process comprises reacting a hydrocarbon with a multi-component catalyst bed in such a manner that the temperature within the catalyst bed remains within controlled temperature ranges throughout all stages of the process. The multi-component catalyst bed comprises a reaction-specific catalyst physically mixed with a heat-generating material.
US08188327B1
This invention covers a process for dimerizing of isobutylene to Iso-octene and unique configuration is being disclosed, where the Feed is diluted to low level with recycle which has essentially no Iso-octene, dual catalyst system, new selectivator (IPA) and successive catalyst stages if needed to enhance the conversion. The process is very selective and provides higher isobutylene conversion.Additionally the invention also covers the hydrogenation of olefins to Paraffin, Iso-octene to Iso-octane product under moderate conditions and with dual or single catalyst system.
US08188324B2
A process for the preparation of 11C methyl iodide comprises coating the internal surface of a first reaction vessel with a solution of lithium aluminum hydride, wherein the first reaction vessel has an internal diameter not greater than about 1.5 mm; introducing 11C carbon dioxide into the first reaction vessel such that it is reduced by the lithium aluminum hydride to give a reduction product; and reacting the reduction product with hydriodic acid.
US08188323B2
The present invention relates to compositions and processes of using perfluoropolyether to maintain or improve the oil return, lubrication, cooling capacity or energy efficiency of the refrigeration, air conditioning and heat transfer system.
US08188321B2
The present invention relates to a process for producing hydrogenolysis products of polyhydric alcohols with a good selectivity and a high yield, as well as hydrogenolysis catalysts used in the production process. The present invention provides (1) a process for producing a hydrogenolysis product of a polyhydric alcohol which includes the step of reacting the polyhydric alcohol with hydrogen in the presence of a catalyst containing a copper component, wherein the catalyst is a catalyst (A) containing the copper component, an iron component and an aluminum component, or a catalyst (B) containing the copper component and a silicon component; and (2) a hydrogenolysis catalyst for polyhydric alcohols which includes a copper component, an iron component and an aluminum component, and (3) a hydrogenolysis catalyst for polyhydric alcohols which includes a copper component and a silicon component.
US08188317B2
An integrated process is provided for preparing complexes of 2,3,5,6-tetraminotoluene with an aromatic diacid starting with nitration of 2,6-dihalotoluene. The process design eliminates costly intermediate drying and recrystallization steps. Handling of solid materials with possible skin sensitizing properties and toxicity is avoided, thereby eliminating human and environmental exposure.
US08188315B2
Provided are an organic light emitting device including: a substrate; a first electrode; a second electrode; and an organic layer interposed between the first electrode and the second electrode and including an emission layer, wherein one of the first electrode and the second electrode is a reflective electrode and the other is a semitransparent or transparent electrode, and wherein the organic layer includes a layer having at least one of the compounds having at least one carbazole group, and a flat panel display device including the organic light emitting device. The organic light emitting device has low driving voltage, excellent current density, high brightness, excellent color purity, high efficiency, and long lifetime.
US08188294B2
The invention provides processes for preparing intermediates useful for preparing compounds of the formula: or a salt thereof, where R1-3 are as defined in the specification.
US08188290B2
The present invention relates to a new and useful process for preparing N,N-substituted carbamoyl halides from secondary amines, carbon dioxide, trialkylsilyl chloride and a halogenating agent.
US08188289B2
Inhibitors of the soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) are provided that incorporate multiple pharmacophores and are useful in the treatment of diseases.
US08188284B2
The present invention relates to compounds of formula (I) wherein A, R1, R2, R3, R4, and R5 are as described herein, pharmaceutical compositions containing them, and methods for their manufacture. These compounds are 5-HT5A receptor antagonists and are useful in the prevention and/or treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, panic disorders, agoraphobia, social phobia, obsessive compulsive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, pain, memory disorders, dementia, disorders of eating behaviors, sexual dysfunction, sleep disorders, abuse of drugs, motor disorders such as Parkinson's disease, psychiatric disorders or gastrointestinal disorders.
US08188279B2
Disclosed herein are compounds represented by the structural formula: therapeutic methods, compositions, and medicaments related thereto are also disclosed.
US08188276B2
The present invention provides 2,4-pyrimidinediamine compounds that inhibit the IgE and/or IgG receptor signaling cascades that lead to the release of chemical mediators, intermediates and methods of synthesizing the compounds and methods of using the compounds in a variety of contexts, including in the treatment and prevention of diseases characterized by, caused by or associated with the release of chemical mediators via degranulation and other processes effected by activation of the IgE and/or IgG receptor signaling cascades.
US08188267B2
Ionic liquids and cellulose ester compositions and processes for producing ionic liquids and cellulose esters. Cellulose esters can be produced by esterifying cellulose in a reaction medium comprising one or more ionic liquids. Cellulose esters prepared via the methods of the present invention can be contacted with at least one bleaching agent to produce bleached cellulose esters having a ΔE value of less than 30.
US08188265B2
Formalin fixation causes cross-linkage between nucleic acids and proteins and covalently modifies RNA. As a result, the molecules are rigid and may comprise subsequent RNA extraction. The invention provides a method for recovering RNA from formalin fixed paraffin-embedded tissue, including a short additional step of incubation with proteinase K after the first digestion step that makes a significant enhancement of the quality and quantity of the extracted RNA and subsequently, an improvement in the detection of gene expression is achieved. The method of the invention has the advantage of minimizing the number of manipulations, eliminating the need for potentially toxic solvents, and increasing significantly the amount of RNA recovered, and therefore the sensibility, when compared with previous methods.
US08188259B2
The present invention relates to methods and compositions containing oligonucleotides suitable for administration to humans and other mammals.
US08188258B2
Oligonucleotides for use in determining the presence of Chlamydophila pneumoniae in a test sample. The oligonucleotides are incorporated into detection probes, capture probes, and amplification oligonucleotides, and can be used in various combinations thereof.
US08188249B2
The present invention relates to antibodies and antigen-binding portions thereof that specifically bind to a M-CSF, preferably human M-CSF, and that function to inhibit a M-CSF. The invention also relates to human anti-M-CSF antibodies and antigen-binding portions thereof. The invention also relates to antibodies that are chimeric, bispecific, derivatized, single chain antibodies or portions of fusion proteins. The invention also relates to isolated heavy and light chain immunoglobulins derived from human anti-M-CSF antibodies and nucleic acid molecules encoding such immunoglobulins. The present invention also relates to methods of making human anti-M-CSF antibodies, compositions comprising these antibodies and methods of using the antibodies and compositions for diagnosis and treatment. The invention also provides gene therapy methods using nucleic acid molecules encoding the heavy and/or light immunoglobulin molecules that comprise the human anti-M-CSF antibodies. The invention also relates to transgenic animals and transgenic plants comprising nucleic acid molecules of the present invention.
US08188245B2
This disclosure describes the molecular cloning of an enduracidin biosynthetic gene cluster from Streptomyces fungicidicus, and characterization of individual genes in the gene cluster and the proteins encoded thereby. An enduracidin gene cluster is located within a 116 kilobases genetic locus and includes 25 open reading frames (ORFs). An additional 23 ORFs flank the disclosed enduracidin biosynthetic gene cluster. Enduracidin analogs and a method for producing them by manipulation of the enduracidin gene cluster and specific genes therein are also disclosed.
US08188241B2
The invention relates to the field of covalently attaching proteins to a substrate, particularly to methods of immobilizing proteins by posttranslationally modifying a cysteine residue of said protein through the addition of functional groups. The invention also relates to biological molecules used in such techniques, including proteins, and detection methods and kits that utilize such immobilized proteins, such as a microdevice or “protein chip”, a high-throughput screening device, and for the microscopy of proteins on a surface.
US08188239B2
Provided herein are targetable constructs that are multivalent carriers of bi-specific antibodies, i.e., each molecule of a targetable construct can serve as a carrier of two or more bi-specific antibodies. Also provided are targetable complexes formed by the association of a targetable construct with two or more bi-specific antibodies. The targetable constructs and targetable complexes of the invention are incorporated into biosensors, kits and pharmaceutical compositions, and are used in a variety of therapeutic and other methods.
US08188232B1
The invention derives from the identification of HVEM as the native ligand for BTLA. The invention provides compositions and methods for modulating BTLA-HVEM interactions and BTLA and HVEM activity, which are useful for modulating immune responses. Agonists and antagonists of the BTLA-HVEM interaction are provided, and methods of treating a variety of conditions through the modulation of immune responses are provided.
US08188225B2
Binding of inorganic phosphate to a phosphate binding protein can result in changes to the stacking of appropriately positioned chromophores, thereby resulting in a detectable change. The invention provides a phosphate-binding protein that undergoes a conformational change from an initial conformation to a final conformation upon binding of phosphate, wherein the protein carries a first label and a second label, and wherein the first and second labels are arranged such that they exhibit molecular stacking that is perturbed on changing from one conformation to the other. Preferred labels are rhodamines.
US08188215B2
The invention provides a method of reducing the damage done by reactive oxygen species (ROS) in an animal. The invention also provides a method of reducing the concentration of a metal in an animal. These methods comprise administering to the animal an effective amount of a metal-binding compound as further described in the application. The invention further provides a method of reducing the damage done by ROS to a cell, a tissue or an organ that has been removed from an animal. This method comprising contacting the cell, tissue or organ with a solution or medium containing an effective amount of a metal-binding compound of the invention. The invention further provides novel metal-binding compounds, pharmaceutical compositions comprising the metal-binding compounds, and kits comprising a container holding a metal-binding compound of the invention.
US08188207B2
Process for producing high strength polyethylene films or tapes comprising the steps of: providing a quantity of disentangled polyethylene, applying a pressure of at least 20 bar to the quantity of disentangled polyethylene and a temperature between the α-relaxation temperature and the melting temperature of the disentangled polyethylene Tm PE resulting in a block of disentangled polyethylene, skiving a film or tape off the block of disentangled polyethylene and, drawing said film or tape in a single or multi stage drawing step at a total draw ratio of at least 1:20.
US08188206B2
A 10-50 g/d high strength polyethylene fiber and preparation method thereof are provided, which are in the high molecular material field. Said fiber is obtained by cross blend melt spinning method, and its strength is 10-50 g/d, its modulus is 400-2000 g/d. The material used by said cross blend melt spinning method is obtained by mixing low density polyethylene with molecular weight of 2/5-500,000 and super molecule weight polyethylene with molecular weight of 120-7000,000 in the proportion of 2-10:1. Flow modifier or diluent is not additionally added in the present invention, raw material consumption is low, extra high pressure is avoided, energy consumption and cost of production are low, technological process is simple, single line capacity is easily raised, and large scale industrial production can be realized.
US08188190B2
A method of modifying the rheology of a thermoplastic resin that includes the steps of providing a thermoplastic resin and blending interpolymer resin particles with the thermoplastic resin. The interpolymer resin contains a styrenic polymer intercalated within a polyolefin, such that the thermoplastic resin is present as a continuous phase and the interpolymer resin is present as a dispersed phase. The method provides a rheology modified thermoplastic resin with improved physical characteristics.
US08188189B2
A resin composition, comprising (a) 50 to 99% by weight of a crystalline polypropylene resin, and (b) 1 to 50% by weight of a propylene copolymer comprising 50 to 85% by mol of a propylene unit and 15 to 50% by mol of a C8-12 α-olefin unit, the propylene copolymer having (1) no meting point in a range of −100 to 200° C., or a melting point of 50° C. or lower in that temperature range, (2) an isotactic selectivity of 90% or higher, (3) a molecular weight distribution of 3 or smaller, and (4) an intrinsic viscosity of 0.1 to 10 dl/g.
US08188188B2
A thermoplastic resin composition production method wherein melt-kneading is performed in a stretched flow when producing a thermoplastic resin composition as specified in the paragraph (I) or (II) below: (I) a thermoplastic resin composition comprising a Thermoplastic resin (A) and a Resin (B) with a reactive functional group; (II) a thermoplastic resin composition comprising a Thermoplastic resin (A), a Thermoplastic resin (C) that is different from the Thermoplastic resin (A), and a Compound (D) with a reactive functional group.
US08188184B2
An environmentally safe additive and vehicle system are provided for water-based and oil-based printing inks, paints, coatings and adhesives which can be rapidly transferred, dispersed, dispensed, spread, dried and cured. The low cost, stable additive and vehicle system enhance multiple color, high speed printing with sharp, highly defined images and superior quality, and can be used on many different types of substrates, such as paper, paperboard, cardboard, clay coated board, foil, plastic, glass, metal, wood and composites. The additive may be formed by the reaction product of a photoinitiator, such as an UV-activated polyelectrolyte, and a monomer, such as an acrylate or a methacrylate in an aqueous solution. In other embodiments, the additive is formed from a carboxylic acid or anhydride and alkylalkanolamine monomer or a dialkylaminoalkyl acrylate or methacrylate monomer in an aqueous solution.
US08188183B2
Coating compositions are provided which may be applied from aqueous systems and contain binders which are autoxidisable to produce rapid drying hard coatings, preferred binders are based on polymers derived from monomers obtained by the reaction of drying oil fatty acids and unsaturated monomers. The polymers contain microgels, have low Tg and contain residual unsaturation; preferred copolymers also contain amide groups. The drying of the coating compositions can be accelerated by the use of metal dryers and have been found to enable the use of particularly low levels of vanadium dryers.
US08188166B2
Unsaturated polyester resin compositions with improved weathering characteristics are presented. Further, the manufacture of these unsaturated polyester resin compositions and their potential applications are presented.
US08188163B2
A water absorbent resin is dried in a continuous fluidized bed having a heat transfer tube and at least two drying rooms. Pulverization is performed between a first drying room at not less than 80° C. to not more than 200° C. and a second or subsequent room at not less than 100° C. to not more than 220° C. A method for producing a water absorbent resin includes: (1) polymerizing a monomer aqueous solution; (2) drying a hydrogel polymer of step (1); (3) performing particle size control of the dry polymer of the step (2); (5) surface crosslinking the water absorbent resin powder of step (3), and step (4) of performing a second heat drying on the water absorbent resin powder of step (3), preceding step (5). The water absorbent resin has a moisture content of 0 wt % to 3 wt % before the step (5).
US08188161B1
The present invention relates to new cure accelerator systems for anaerobic curable compositions. These anaerobic cure accelerator systems include the combination of a cationic initiator and a reducing agent, plus either (a) an aromatic nitrogen-containing compound and a thiol or (b) acetyl phenyl hydrazine.
US08188157B2
UV curable coating compositions and methods for applying such compositions to surfaces to provide abrasion resistance and/or structural rigidity thereto. The UV curable compositions of the present invention include at least one curable (meth)acrylate, at least one photoinitiator which absorbs only in the UV range of the electromagnetic spectrum, and an inorganic filler, at least a portion of which having a particle size in the range of 1 to 1,000 nm. The compositions may further comprise a reactive diluent.
US08188151B2
The subject invention provides compositions and methods for treating diabetes in patients. In a preferred embodiment, the invention provides compositions methods for treating diabetes and/or preventing or alleviating complications associated with diabetes. Specifically exemplified herein is the concurrent administration of a cysteamine compound with at least one additional therapeutic agent to prevent and/or treat diabetes as well as prevent and/or treat complications associated with diabetes. In a preferred embodiment, oral administration of cysteamine hydrochloride with Metformin to a patient diagnosed with diabetes can substantially regulate the patient's glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity.
US08188150B2
A compound for therapeutic use, of the formula (I), wherein R1 is aryl or heteroaryl optionally substituted with R5; R2 is H, alkyl or CH2OH or forms part of a ring with R4; R3 is H, alkyl or CH2OH or forms part of a ring with R4; R4 is H, alkyl or (when forming part of a ring with R2 or R3) CH2; and R5 is alkyl, CF3, OH, Oalkyl, OCOalkyl, CONH2, CN, halogen, NH2, NO2, NHCHO, NHCONH2, NHSO2Me, CONH2, or SOMe; or a salt thereof.
US08188129B2
A novel (−)-enantiomer of 2-[2-(1-chloro-cyclopropyl)-3-(2-chloro-phenyl)-2-hydroxypropyl]-2,4-dihydro-[1,2,4]-triazole-3-thione of the formula a process for preparing this novel active compound and its use as microbicide in crop protection and in the protection of materials.
US08188126B2
The invention provides methods of treating a memory deficiency in a subject in need of such treatment, where the methods comprise administering to a subject an effective amount of a compound of formula (1): wherein: R1 is hydrogen, fluorine or a methoxyl group, R1 being in position 2, 3, 4 or 5 of the aromatic carbocycle; R2 is hydrogen or a methyl group; R3 is hydrogen, a methyl group or an ethyl group; and their pharmaceutically acceptable acid addition salt as well as the isomers and the tautomers thereof. The memory deficiency may be correlated with a memory deficiency induced by scopolamine.
US08188115B2
The invention relates to compounds having pharmacological activity towards the 5-HT7 receptor, and more particularly to some tetrahydroisoquinoline substituted sulfonamide compounds, to processes of preparation of such compounds, to pharmaceutical compositions comprising them, and to their use for the treatment and or prophylaxis of a disease in which 5-HT is involved, such as CNS disorders.
US08188114B2
The present invention provides novel pyrrolo[2,3-c]pyridine derivatives or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, processes for the preparation thereof, and compositions comprising the same. The pyrrolo[2,3-c]pyridine derivatives or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof of the present invention have excellent proton pump inhibition effects and possess the ability to attain a reversible proton pump inhibitory effect.
US08188110B2
This disclosure relates to novel morphinan compounds and their derivatives, pharmaceutically acceptable salts, solvates, and hydrates thereof. This disclosure also provides compositions comprising a compound of this disclosure and the use of such compositions in methods of treating diseases and conditions that are beneficially treated by administering a σ1 receptor agonist that also has NMDA antagonist activity.
US08188108B2
A pharmaceutical composition comprising an analgesic or analgesic combination and a stool softener is disclosed. The analgesic is selected from morphine, meperidine, fentanyl, hydromorphone, oxymorphone, oxycodone, hydrocodone, methadone, propoxyphene, pentazocine, levorphanol, codeine, acetaminophen and combinations of these analgesics. The composition is formulated for oral administration as a liquid or solid dosage form for immediate, slow, delayed or sustained-release characteristics.
US08188107B2
Disclosed is a pharmaceutical composition, comprising two analgesic compounds and/or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof consisting of N-[3 -(formylamino)-4-oxo-6-phenoxy-4H-1-benzopyran-7-yl] methanesulfonamide and/or at least one a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and a-dose oxycodone and/or at least one a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, the two analgesic compounds in an amount sufficient to provide an analgesic effect in a human patient. Also disclosed is a method of effectively treating pain in humans or other mammals, comprising orally administering to the patient a an oral dosage form comprising two analgesic compounds consisting of N-[3-(formylamino)-4-oxo-6 -phenoxy-4H-1-benzopyran-7-yl] methanesulfonamide and/or at least one a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and oxycodone and/or at least one a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such that the two analgesic compounds in an amount sufficient to provide an analgesic effect in a human patient.
US08188104B2
This invention relates to: (a) compounds and salts thereof that, inter alia, inhibit HCV; (b) intermediates useful for the preparation of such compounds and salts; (c) compositions comprising such compounds and salts; (d) methods for preparing such intermediates, compounds, salts, and compositions; (e) methods of use of such compounds, salts, and compositions; and (f) kits comprising such compounds, salts, and compositions.
US08188097B2
The present invention relates to a novel pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine compound of the formula [I]: wherein R1 and R2 are the same or different and an optionally substituted aryl group etc. Q is single bond, a methylene group or a group of the formula: —N(RQ)—, RQ is an alkyl group, Ring A is a substituted pyrazole ring fused to the adjacent pyrimidine ring having the following formula (A), (B) or (C), R3 and R4 are the same or different and a hydrogen atom, a cyano group etc. E is one of the following groups (i) to (v): R00 is an alkyl group, Q1 is a single bond etc., Q2 is a single bond or an alkylene group, one of R5 and R6 is a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group and the other is an alkyl group etc., one of R50 and R60 is a hydrogen atom or an alkyl group and the other is a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group etc., R51 is an alkyl group or an optionally substituted arylsulfonyl group, R61 is an alkylamino group or an azido group, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
US08188096B2
The present invention relates to compositions and methods useful in treating diseases and disorders related to protein kinases. In particular, the present invention relates to compositions and methods useful for targeting protein kinases related to mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways (e.g., p38 MAPK, JNK, ERK, and upstream and downstream protein kinases) and/or casein kinase (CK) pathways (e.g., CK1δ, and upstream and downstream protein kinases), and diseases and disorders related to MAPK pathways (e.g., p38 MAPK, JNK, ERK, and upstream and downstream protein kinases) and/or CK pathways (e.g., CK1δ, and upstream and downstream protein kinases).
US08188093B2
The present invention relates to a method of raising HDL cholesterol comprising administering to a patient in need thereof a compound of the formula wherein A, G, R1 to R8 and R17 are as defined in the description.
US08188079B2
The present invention relates to 3-Amino-5-phenyl-5,6-dihydro-2H-[1,4]oxazines of formula I having BACE1 and/or BACE2 inhibitory activity, their manufacture, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use as therapeutically active substances. The active compounds of the present invention are useful in the therapeutic and/or prophylactic treatment of e.g. Alzheimer's disease and type 2 diabetes.
US08188078B2
The disclosure relates to compounds of formula (I): wherein A, W, R, R5, and R6 are as defined in the disclosure, or a salt thereof, and to their use as drugs, in particular as c-Met inhibitors.
US08188077B2
Disclosed are compounds which inhibit the activity of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins, compositions containing the compounds and methods of treating diseases during which is expressed anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein.
US08188069B2
Compounds of formula (I), pharmaceutical compositions comprising them, and methods for their use are described.
US08188061B2
The invention relates to compositions and methods for modulating the expression of apolipoprotein B, and more particularly to the downregulation of apolipoprotein B by chemically modified oligonucleotides.
US08188060B2
Disclosed are methods of enhancing functionality of duplex oligonucleotides and compositions made by the methods. The duplex oligonucleotides include siRNAs, miRNA mimics, and piRNA mimics which contain modified nucleotides and mismatches between the two strands of the molecule at specific nucleotide positions.
US08188050B2
The present invention concerns the use of peptide fragments of the protein SLC24A5 as active agents designed to induce, increase, or restore the synthesis of melanin in the melanocytes of the epidermis or of the pilar bulb, alone or in association with at least one other active agent, in a cosmetic composition or for the preparation of a pharmaceutical or particularly dermatological composition. The invention is also related to any composition containing the active agents.
US08188049B2
The present invention relates to peptides comprising the amino acid sequence represented by the following formula 1 and having the activities of epidermal growth factor and their uses: Cys-Met-Tyr-Ile-Glu-Linker-Arg-Gly-Asp (1) The EGF-mimicking peptides of the present invention possess identical functions or activities to natural-occurring human EGF and are able to promote the generation of autocrine EGF in cells. In addition the peptides of the present invention are much higher stability and skin penetration potency than natural-occurring EGF. Therefore, the composition containing the peptide exhibits excellent treatment and prevention efficacies on diseases or conditions demanding EGF activities, and can be advantageously applied to pharmaceutical compositions, quasi-drugs and cosmetics.
US08188046B2
The application describes several mutant amyloid beta peptides and specific regions which are useful in the therapeutic and diagnostic of neurological diseases. The application further describes methods of using these mutant peptides as treatment and reagents for diagnosis of diseases. The application further describes diagnostic kits and pharmaceutical compositions for use in therapy to treat neurological diseases including but not limited to Alzheimer's disease and various forms of mild cognitive impairments.
US08188041B2
The invention features a method of treating an inflammatory condition in an individual, comprising administering an agent inhibits the interaction between a Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and a high mobility group B (HMGB) polypeptide to the individual. The invention also features methods for identifying agents that inhibit the interaction between TLR2 and HMGB.
US08188036B2
The invention provides nucleic acids, and variants and fragments thereof, obtained from strains of Bacillus thuringiensis encoding δ-endotoxins having pesticidal activity against pests of the order Coleoptera. The invention further provides mutagenized nucleic acids that have been modified to encode endotoxins having improved pesticidal activity and/or altered pest specificity. Particular embodiments of the invention provide isolated nucleic acids encoding pesticidal proteins, pesticidal compositions, expression cassettes, and transformed microorganisms and plants comprising a nucleic acid of the invention. These compositions find use in methods for controlling pests, especially plant pests.
US08188034B2
The present invention provides compositions of saratin and methods of use thereof. One aspect of the invention is a method of prevention or mitigation of the development of adhesions, keloids and scars. The adhesions, keloids and scars can be due to surgery, such as plastic surgery or orthopedic surgery, or can be pre-existing scars. Another aspect of the invention is a method for treatment of flexor tendon injuries.
US08188033B2
This invention encompasses synthetic antimicrobial peptide analogs having certain un-natural amino acids, including the un-natural amino acids hydrophobic tetrahydroisoquinolinecarboxylic acid (Tic) and octahydroindolecarboxylic acid (Oic), incorporated into the polypeptide backbone. These antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are useful to treat infection in humans and other mammals of such bacteria as Gram positive bacteria, Gram negative bacteria and Mycobacterium. Many of the AMPs also exhibit the property of reduced hemolytic activity. The invention also entails 3D-QSAR models and mathematical equations that calculate the biological activity of any peptide sequence against Staphylococcus aureus or Mycobacterium ranae.
US08188031B2
Dryer products that impart antistatic properties to textiles and methods for fabricating such dryer products are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a dryer product comprises a water-insoluble, moisture-permeable, enclosed container and a desiccant within the water-insoluble, moisture-permeable, enclosed container. The desiccant is adapted to impart antistatic properties to the textiles during a drying cycle. In another exemplary embodiment, a method for fabricating a reusable antistatic dryer product comprises the steps of providing a desiccant adapted to absorb moisture and be solubilized in the moisture, depositing the desiccant in a water-insoluble, moisture-permeable container, and enclosing the desiccant within the water-insoluble, moisture-permeable container.
US08188019B2
The present invention is generally directed to triester-based lubricant compositions. The present invention is also directed to methods of making these and other similar lubricant compositions. In some embodiments, the methods for making such triester-based lubricants utilize a biomass precursor comprising mono-unsaturated fatty acids, wherein such mono-unsaturated fatty acids are reduced to mono-unsaturated fatty alcohols en route to the synthesis of triester species for use as/in the triester-based lubricant compositions. Subsequent steps in such synthesis may employ carboxylic acids and/or acyl halides/anhydrides derived from biomass and/or Fischer-Tropsch synthesis.
US08188018B2
A lubricating oil composition for use in oil-impregnated sintered bearings together with a resin member having C═C bonds or C═O groups in the molecules, which comprises a base oil comprising a synthetic hydrocarbon oil as the main component, and 0.1-30% by weight of an ester-based oil on the basis of total composition, and free from zinc dialkyldithiophosphate and molybdenum dialkyldithiocarbamate, where the synthetic hydrocarbon oil as the main component of the base oil has substantially no adverse effect on resin, can minimize an adverse effect on various metal species of sintered materials by suppressing a mixing amount of a wear inhibitor or an extreme pressure agent to a minimum, without deteriorating a good lubricability required for the lubricating oil in oil-impregnated sintered bearings.
US08188014B2
A method for sealing a subterranean zone is disclosed. The method includes the steps of preparing a wellbore fluid, placing the wellbore fluid into at least a portion of an annular space between the sidewalls of a wellbore and the exterior of a casing string disposed in the wellbore, and allowing the wellbore fluid to solidify therein, wherein the wellbore fluid includes an oleaginous fluid as the continuous phase of the wellbore fluid, a non-oleaginous fluid as the discontinuous phase of the wellbore fluid, and about 5 to about 50 pounds per barrel of a thermally activated hydrocarbon gellant.
US08188011B1
The present invention provides methods for the identification ligand compounds that bind to target molecules such as proteins or structured RNA with as little as millimolar (mM) affinity using mass spectrometry. The methods may be used to determine the mode of binding interaction between two or more of these ligand compounds to the target as well as their relative affinities. Also provided are methods for designing compounds having greater affinity to a target molecule by identifying two or more ligands using mass spectrometry methods of the invention and linking the ligands together to form a novel compound.
US08188010B2
A thin film superconductive wire material (16) and an electro conductive tape (15) are immersed in a solder bath (35) containing a solder, which includes Sn(tin) and Bi (bismuth), to bond the thin film superconductive wire material (16) and the electro conductive tape (15) and a composite superconductive wire material (10) is formed.
US08188009B2
4-(3-Aminobenzoyl)-5-cyclopropylisoxazoles of the formula (I) are described as herbicides. In this formula (I), A, X, Y and Z are radicals such as hydrogen, organic radicals such as alkyl, and other radicals such as halogen.
US08188007B2
A herbicide composition for lawn characterized by containing iodosulfuron-methyl or its salt, and at least 1 kind of herbicidal compound selected from the group consisting of oxaziclomefone, fentrazamide, oxadiargyl, ethoxysulfuron, cafenstrole, indanofan, asulam, fenoxaprop, clethodim, ethofumesate, tribenuron-methyl, metsulfuron-methyl, thifensulfuron-methyl, bromoxynil, MCPA, 2,4-D, dicamba as effective components.
US08187997B2
The invention provides a catalyst composition composed of a support portion and a catalyst portion. The support portion includes an acidic mixed metal oxide including a transitional alumina and a second metal oxide. The transitional alumina can comprise delta or theta alumina, in combination with other transitional phases, or an alpha or gamma alumina. The second metal oxide has a weight percentage that is less than the weight percentage of alumina. The catalyst portion is 25 weight percent or less of the catalyst composition and is composed of nickel and rhenium. The catalyst portion includes nickel in an amount in the range of 2 to 20 weight percent, based upon total catalyst composition weight, and there is no boron in the catalyst portion.
US08187996B2
An object of the present invention is to provide an exhaust gas-purifying catalyst containing a composite oxide catalyst and a refractory support and being less prone to cause a decrease in its activity even when used at high temperatures in an atmosphere with high oxygen concentration. An exhaust gas-purifying catalyst includes a composite oxide catalyst containing rare-earth element, alkaline-earth element and precious metal, a part of the rare-earth element and a part of the alkaline-earth element forming composite oxide, and the composite oxide and a part of the precious metal forming solid solution, and a refractory support supporting the composite oxide catalyst and including at least one of a first composite oxide represented by a general formula AB2O4, a second composite oxide having perovskite structure represented by a general formula LMO3, and a third composite oxide having pyrochlore structure represented by a general formula X2Y2O7.
US08187994B2
Methods and compositions for stabilizing the activity of catalytic compositions during catalytic processes, such as alkylation. A catalytic composition comprising a partially deactivated ionic liquid catalyst may be regenerated by reaction with a metal to form reactivated catalyst and an inorganic catalyst precursor; and the catalytic composition may be amended in-process by addition of an organic catalyst precursor for reaction with the inorganic catalyst precursor to form fresh ionic liquid catalyst. The organic catalyst precursor may be protected from water, e.g., during handling, by hydrophobic material(s).
US08187990B2
A green part, a region of a refractory furnace or a hollow piece for producing a sintered refractory has the following mean mineral chemical composition in weight percent based of mineral oxides: 40%≦Al2O3≦94%, 0%≦ZrO2≦41%, 2%≦SiO2≦22%, 1%
US08187987B2
The invention relates to glass articles suitable for use as electronic device housing/enclosure or protective cover which comprise a glass material. Particularly, a housing/enclosure/cover comprising an ion-exchanged glass exhibiting the following attributes (1) radio, and microwave frequency transparency, as defined by a loss tangent of less than 0.03 and at a frequency range of between 15 MHz to 3.0 GHz; (2) infrared transparency; (3) a fracture toughness of greater than 0.6 MPa·m1/2; (4) a 4-point bend strength of greater than 350 MPa; (5) a Vickers hardness of at least 450 kgf/mm2 and a Vickers median/radial crack initiation threshold of at least 5 kgf, (6) a Young's Modulus ranging between about 50 to 100 GPa; (7) a thermal conductivity of less than 2.0 W/m° C., and (9) and at least one of the following attributes: (i) a compressive surface layer having a depth of layer (DOL) greater and a compressive stress greater than 400 MPa, or, (ii) a central tension of more than 20 MPa.
US08187984B2
A textile fabric includes a smooth surface with one or more regions having coating material exhibiting thermal expansion or contraction in response to change in temperature, adjusting insulation performance of the textile fabric in response to ambient conditions.
US08187977B2
Methods and apparatus for automatic gain control. A film on a substrate is polished by a chemical mechanical polisher that includes a polishing pad and an in-situ monitoring system. The polishing pad includes a first portion, and the in-situ monitoring system includes a light source and a light detector. The light source emits light, and light emitted from the light source is directed through the first portion and to a surface of the film being polished. Light reflecting from the surface of the film being polished and passing through the first portion is received at the light detector. An electronic signal is generated based on the light received at the light detector. When the electronic signal is evaluated not to satisfy one or more constraints, a gain for the light detector is adjusted so that the electronic signal would satisfy the one or more constraints.
US08187974B2
Methods of manufacturing semiconductor devices and methods of optical proximity correction methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method of manufacturing a semiconductor device includes determining an amount of reactive ion etch (RIE) lag of a RIE process for a material layer of the semiconductor device, and adjusting a size of at least one pattern for a feature of the material layer by an adjustment amount to partially compensate for the amount of RIE lag determined.
US08187972B2
An through-substrate via fabrication method requires forming a through-substrate via hole in a semiconductor substrate, depositing an electrically insulating, continuous and substantially conformal isolation material onto the substrate and interior walls of the via using ALD, depositing a conductive material into the via and over the isolation material using ALD such that it is electrically continuous across the length of the via hole, and depositing a polymer material over the conductive material such that any continuous top-to-bottom openings present in the via holes are filled by the polymer material. The basic fabrication method may be extended to provide vias with multiple conductive layers, such as coaxial and triaxial vias.
US08187966B2
A Cu-CMP step applied to processes for 130 nm, 90 nm, and 65 nm technical nodes or the like mainly employs slurry to which an anticorrosive agent is added for preventing corrosion of Cu wiring. The inventors of the present application have studied and clearly found that in the Cu-CMP step using the slurry with the anticorrosive agent added thereto, the anticorrosive agent often forms complexes with Cu, which remain as foreign matter on a wafer in large quantity, leading to a reduction in yield, and in reliability of TDDB characteristics of the Cu wiring. In the invention of the present application, a post-CMP cleaning process involves applying wet cleaning to a wafer by supplying a cleaning solution, such as a chemical solution or pure water, to a device surface of the wafer substantially in a vertical direction with respect to the horizontal device surface, while rotating the wafer substantially about its center in the horizontal plane. The rotation speed of the wafer is set low such that the thickness of the cleaning solution over the entire device surface becomes substantially uniform.
US08187962B2
Structures and methods of forming self aligned silicided contacts are disclosed. The structure includes a gate electrode disposed over an active area, a liner disposed over the gate electrode and at least a portion of the active area, an insulating layer disposed over the liner. A first contact plug is disposed in the insulating layer and the liner, the first contact plug disposed above and in contact with a portion of the active area, the first contact plug including a first conductive material. A second contact plug is disposed in the insulating layer and the liner, the second contact plug disposed above and in contact with a portion of the gate electrode, the second contact plug includes the first conductive material. A contact material layer is disposed in the active region, the contact material layer disposed under the first contact plug and includes the first conductive material.
US08187956B2
A method for forming a microcrystalline semiconductor film over a base formed of a different material, which has high crystallinity in the entire film and at an interface with the base, is proposed. Further, a method for manufacturing a thin film transistor including a microcrystalline semiconductor film with high crystallinity is proposed. Furthermore, a method for manufacturing a photoelectric conversion device including a microcrystalline semiconductor film with high crystallinity is proposed. By forming crystal nuclei with high density and high crystallinity over a base film and then growing crystals in a semiconductor from the crystal nuclei, a microcrystalline semiconductor film which has high crystallinity at an interface with the base film, which has high crystallinity in crystal grains, and which has high adhesion between the adjacent crystal grains is formed.
US08187953B2
An object of the present invention is to improve use efficiency of a semiconductor substrate without lowering efficiency of a fabrication process. Another object of the present invention is to achieve cost reduction by effective use of a semiconductor substrate whose thickness is reduced due to repeated use in a process of manufacturing an SOI substrate. In a process of manufacturing an SOI substrate, a semiconductor substrate is used as a bond substrate a predetermined number of times, or as long as it meets predetermined conditions. In a case where a first single crystal semiconductor substrate cannot be used as a bond substrate, it is bonded to a second single crystal semiconductor substrate. Then, a stacked-layer substrate formed from the first single crystal semiconductor substrate and the second single crystal semiconductor substrate bonded to each other is used as a bond substrate in a process of manufacturing an SOI substrate.
US08187949B2
When a thin semiconductor device is formed by grinding a wafer, it has been necessary to dice the wafer into dies and process the back surfaces of the dies separately. In the invention, a wafer 2a is half-diced from the front surface thereof to form groove portions 4 therein, and in this state, the front surface of the wafer 2a is attached to a supporting body 5 having rigidity with an adhesive layer 6. Then, the wafer 2a is ground from the back surface and diced into individual dies 2b, and then a back surface process including a heat treatment such as the formation of back surface electrodes 9a is performed in the state where the dies 2b are attached to the supporting body 5.
US08187933B2
Some embodiments include dielectric structures. The structures include first and second portions that are directly against one another. The first portion may contain a homogeneous mixture of a first phase and a second phase. The first phase may have a dielectric constant of greater than or equal to 25, and the second phase may have a dielectric constant of less than or equal to 20. The second portion may be entirely a single composition having a dielectric constant of greater than or equal to 25. Some embodiments include electrical components, such as capacitors and transistors, containing dielectric structures of the type described above. Some embodiments include methods of forming dielectric structures, and some embodiments include methods of forming electrical components.
US08187932B2
A non-volatile memory device contains a three dimensional stack of horizontal diodes located in a trench in an insulating material, a plurality of storage elements, a plurality of word lines extending substantially vertically, and a plurality of bit lines. Each of the plurality of bit lines has a first portion that extends up along at least one side of the trench and a second portion that extends substantially horizontally through the three dimensional stack of the horizontal diodes. Each of the horizontal diodes is a steering element of a respective non-volatile memory cell of the non-volatile memory device, and each of the plurality of storage elements is located adjacent to a respective steering element.
US08187927B2
A method for fabricating an LCD includes: providing a substrate with a thin film transistor (TFT) part defined thereon; forming a metallic film for a gate electrode on the substrate; etching the metallic film through a first printing process to form a gate electrode; sequentially forming a gate insulating layer, a semiconductor layer, and a metallic film for source and drain electrodes on the substrate; selectively etching the metallic film for source and drain electrodes, the semiconductor layer and the gate insulating layer through a second printing process to form a gate insulating layer pattern, a preliminary active pattern and a metallic film pattern which are sequentially stacked such that the gate insulating layer pattern is over-etched from the side of the preliminary active pattern; forming an insulating layer on the substrate with the metallic film pattern; etching the insulating layer to expose the metallic film pattern; forming a transparent conductive film on the metallic film pattern and a remaining insulating film; and selectively etching the transparent conductive film, the metallic film pattern, the preliminary active pattern to form an active pattern, a source electrode, a drain electrode, and a pixel electrode connected with the drain electrode.
US08187923B2
A laser release and glass chip removal process for a integrated circuit module avoiding carrier edge cracking is provided.
US08187919B2
An oxide thin film transistor (TFT) and its fabrication method are disclosed. In a TFT of a bottom gate structure using amorphous zinc oxide (ZnO)-based semiconductor as an active layer, source and drain electrodes are formed, on which the active layer made of oxide semiconductor is formed to thus prevent degeneration of the oxide semiconductor in etching the source and drain electrodes. The oxide TFT includes: a gate electrode form on a substrate; a gate insulating layer formed on the gate electrode; source and drain electrodes formed on the gate insulating layer and having a multi-layer structure of two or more layers; and an active layer formed on the source and drain electrodes and formed of amorphous zinc oxide-based semiconductor, wherein a metal layer such as indium-tin-oxide, molybdenum, and the like, having good ohmic-contact characteristics with titanium and a titanium alloy having good bonding force with oxygen or the oxide-based semiconductor is formed at an uppermost portion of the source and drain electrodes. In a method for fabricating an oxide TFT, a silicon nitride film is deposited with a sputter equipment without the necessity of H2 gas so as to be used as a protection layer of oxide semiconductor to thus prevent degradation of the characteristics of the oxide semiconductor.
US08187917B2
Objects are to solve inhibition of miniaturization of a memory element and complexity of a manufacturing process thereof, and to provide a nonvolatile memory device and a semiconductor device each having the memory device, in which data can be additionally written except at the time of manufacture and in which forgery or the like caused by rewriting of data can be prevented, and a memory device and a semiconductor device that are inexpensive and nonvolatile. The present invention provides a semiconductor device that includes a plurality of memory elements, in each of which a first conductive layer, a second conductive layer disposed beside the first conductive layer, and a mixed film that are disposed over the same insulating film. The mixed film contains an inorganic compound, an organic compound, and a halogen atom and is disposed between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer.
US08187916B2
A method of forming an organic layer for an organic electronic device (e.g., an OLED) by using a liquid composition comprising a small molecule organic semiconductor material mixed in a solvent preparation in which the content of higher boiling impurities is reduced. The solvent preparation comprises a high boiling point solvent and 0.1 wt % or less of impurities having a higher boiling point than the solvent. The liquid composition is deposited on a surface by inkjet printing to form the organic layer. Also, provided are liquid compositions which can be used to make organic layers.
US08187890B2
Methods for rapid sensing of dissolved toxic heavy metals use a hybrid inorganic material (“HIM”), which is synthesized from hydrated iron oxide (“HFO”) and calcium magnesium silicate. HIM thus synthesized is used in sensing dissolved toxic heavy metals. Water containing toxic heavy metals (e.g., lead, copper, zinc, nickel, etc.) is passed through a sorbent bed of HIM, whereupon it shows a sharp drop in pH after a certain length of time. The presence of HFO and calcium magnesium silicates in HIM synergistically provide a precipitous drop in pH, which is characteristic of the concentration and type of toxic heavy metal. Therefore, observing a change in pH indicates the presence and identity of heavy metal ions in a test water sample.
US08187885B2
Fluorescently labeled microsphere calibration and quality control particles for use in establishing standardized fluorescence detector setup, monitoring daily QC of flow cytometers and quantitative calibration of the fluorescence detectors in traceable units of measure (molecules equivalent soluble fluorescence; MESF).
US08187879B2
Methods for the isolation, expansion and storage of a population of stem cells belonging to human dental follicles, called FENC (Follicle-derived Embryonic Neural Crest stem cells,) including: a) Collection of the follicular sack in sterile conditions, digestion and primary culture growth and expansion; b) Optional amplification; c) FACsorting.
US08187878B2
The present invention provides compositions and methods for the production of differentiated mammalian cells. More particularly, the present invention provides cellular differentiation methods employing culturing the cells on a feeder layer or under feeder-free conditions in cell culture and further contacting the cells with an inhibitor of the PI3-kinase pathway and a member of the TGFb family for the generation of differentiated mammalian cells from pluripotent mammalian stem cells. Preferably, the differentiated cell is selected from the group consisting of a mesendodermal cell, a mesodermal cell, and an endodermal cell.
US08187872B2
Lentiviral vector particles comprising a Sindbis virus E2 glycoprotein variant and a lentiviral vector genome comprising a sequence of interest are provided. A lentiviral vector particle comprising: (a) an envelope comprising a Sindbis virus E2 glycoprotein variant; and (b) a lentiviral vector genome comprising a sequence of interest; wherein the E2 glycoprotein variant facilitates infection of dendritic cells by the lentiviral vector particle, and wherein the E2 glycoprotein variant has reduced binding to heparan sulfate compared to a reference sequence (HR strain).
US08187855B2
Provided are methods for preparing large-scale preparations of soluble hyaluronidases. The methods employ cells that contain a plurality of active copies of nucleic acid encoding the soluble hyaluronidase and a plurality of feedings and temperature changes, whereby the encoded soluble hyaluronidase is secreted into the cell culture medium.
US08187847B2
The present invention relates to the use of at least one inorganic nitrate in a fermentation process for producing erythritol using a yeast strain of the Moniliella species as an erythritol-producing microorganism characterized in that the at least one inorganic nitrate is simultaneously used as a main nitrogen source and as a pH regulator in the culture medium, as well as to such an improved method for producing erythritol.
US08187840B2
The present invention relates to a microorganism producing inosine, which is one of purine nucleoside, an important material for 5′-inosinic acid synthesis, and method for producing inosine using the same. More particularly, the present invention relates to a recombinant microorganism of Corynebacterium genus producing inosine at high concentration by inactivating the gene encoding nucleoside hydrolase II and by enhancing the expression of the gene encoding 5′-nucleotidase, which still retains the characteristics of Corynebacterium ammoniagenes CJIP2401 (KCCM-10610).
US08187836B2
The present invention features nucleic acids for recombinant protein expression in mammalian cell culture. The episomal vectors of the invention promote high protein production in mammalian cells expressing the SV40 T Ag or Epstein-Barr virus nuclear antigen (e.g., COS7 or HEK293-6E cells). The methods and systems are useful, for example, in pharmaceutical drug development and cloning, especially for the production of antibodies.
US08187835B2
By culturing a methanol-assimilating bacterium which harbors a DNA construct which contains a promoter sequence that functions in the methanol-assimilating bacterium and a nucleotide sequence that encodes a polypeptide containing a signal sequence and an objective protein which is functionally connected to the promoter sequence, in a liquid medium containing methanol as a major carbon source, the bacterium is allowed to secrete the objective protein, and the secreted objective protein is recovered.
US08187823B2
Methods and products for the attenuation or treatment of pain and the reduction of nociception are described. The methods and products are based on the modulation of neuroglia-derived BDNF expression or activity. Also described herein are commercial packages and uses based on such modulation. Related methods for identifying or characterizing compounds for the treatment of pain and the reduction of nociception are also described.
US08187822B2
Sucralose-binding TAS2R bitter taste receptors have been identified. Novel methods to identify modulators and in particular inhibitors to the bitter taste of sucralose, and an inhibitor, are provided.
US08187817B2
Methods of detecting individuals at risk for atherosclerosis and related vascular diseases involving the detection of IL-1α autoantibodies, as well as therapeutic methods to prevent or treat atherosclerosis and related vascular disease by administering a pharmaceutical composition comprising IL-1α autoantibodies.
US08187810B2
Techniques for diagnosing overactive bladder (OAB) in a patient are provided. For example, a technique for diagnosing overactive bladder in a patient includes the step of obtaining peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from the patient to provide a reporter function in the patient.
US08187809B2
The present invention provides a novel marker capable of accurately diagnosing the lymph node metastasis of stomach cancer. An mRNA, or a fragment thereof, coding for at least one protein selected from TFF1, AGR2, PRSS8, MUC1, MUC4 and MUC17 can be useful as a lymph node metastasis marker.
US08187794B2
Flexographic printing plates and other relief images can be formed from a laser-ablatable element having a laser-ablatable layer that is at least 20 μm in thickness. The laser-ablatable layer includes a film-forming material that is a laser-laser-ablatable material or the film-forming material has dispersed therein a laser-ablatable material. The laser-ablatable material is a polymeric material that when heated to 300° C. at a rate of 10° C./minute, loses at least 60% of its mass to form at least one predominant low molecular weight product. The element can be imaged by ablation at an energy of at least 1 J/cm2 to provide a relief image.
US08187784B2
A toner composition including toner particles, wherein the toner particles are prepared by a method in which toner constituents including at least a binder resin and a colorant are kneaded upon application of heat to prepare a toner constituent mixture; the toner constituent mixture is dissolved or swelled in an organic solvent capable of dissolving or swelling at least the binder resin to prepare an oil phase liquid; the oil phase liquid is emulsified in an aqueous liquid to prepare an emulsion; the emulsion is coagulated; and then the coagulated emulsion is dried to prepare the toner particles.
US08187777B2
A method for manufacturing a patterned layer on a substrate with a print head unit includes mounting a print head unit to an ink-jet device, the print head unit including at least two side print heads and one central print head, the print heads each comprising a nozzle line, rotationally moving at least one of the side print heads relative to the central pint head to achieve parallelism, rotating the print head unit around a rotating axis perpendicular to the substrate, linearly moving the side print heads along the respective nozzle line thereof to correspond to pitches of the nozzles and that of the cells on the substrate, depositing ink into the cells on the substrate, and solidifying the ink so as to form a patterned layer on the substrate.
US08187776B2
A color filter substrate is provided. The color filter substrate includes a substrate, a light-shielding layer, and a plurality of color filter patterns. The substrate has a plurality of annular trough areas, a plurality of central areas, and a light-shielding area positioned among the annular trough areas. Each of the annular trough areas has an inner edge connected to the central area and an outer edge connected to the light-shielding area. The light-shielding layer is disposed on the light-shielding area and extends from the outer edges of the annular trough areas to the top of the annular trough areas. The color filter patterns are disposed on the annular trough areas and the central areas, and the color filter patterns are in contact with a side surface and a part of the bottom surface of the light-shielding layer.
US08187746B2
An active material for an electrochemical device may have a surface modification agent that is a silane, organometallic compound, or a mixture of two or more of such compounds. Both negative and positive electrodes may be prepared from the surface modified active materials. The surface of an electrode may be modified by adding the surface modification agent to a non-aqueous electrolyte used in constructing a battery. An electrode or active material may be modified with a surface modification agent in either the gas phase or in solution. Slurries of the active agent may be prepared and the surface modification agent added, the slurry then be used to cast an electrode that is then dried.
US08187735B2
Electroactive compositions are disclosed for use in lithium ion battery electrodes. The compositions, such as multifunctional mixed metal olivines, provide an electrochemical cell having a plurality of open circuit voltages at different states of charge. The compositions afford improved state-of-charge monitoring, overcharge protection and/or overdischarge protection for lithium ion batteries.
US08187732B2
A lubricant layer for a magnetic recording medium may include a perfluoropolyether having monomer units and end groups selected to provide high thermal stability and good reliability.
US08187712B2
To provide a plastic polarized lens which is excellent in processability and the like as well as in adhesion property of the polarized film, and a method of producing the same. In the plastic polarized lens of the present invention, layers comprised of thiourethane-based resins obtained by reacting (A) isocyanate compounds with (B) active hydrogen compounds are stacked on both sides of a polarized film comprised of thermoplastic polyester formed under a predetermined temperature condition.
US08187710B2
There are disclosed insulated ultrafine powder comprising electroconductive ultrafine powder which is in the form of sphere, spheroid or acicular each having a minor axis in the range of 1 to 100 nm and an insulating film applied thereto; a process for producing the same which is capable of covering the surfaces of the insulated ultrafine powder with the insulating film having a thickness in the range of 0.3 to 100 nm without causing any clearance or vacancy; and a resin composite material which uses the same. A high dielectric constant of the material is assured by adding a small amount of insulated ultrafine powder wherein an insulating film is applied to the electroconductive ultrafine powder, while maintaining the processability and moldability that are the characteristics inherent in a resin material.
US08187706B2
An adhesive composition is provided which is capable of providing good adhesion strength to the polyimide surface of a flexible circuit board that is exposed on the metal wiring surface and between the traces even when the polyimide surface is relatively smooth. The adhesive composition contains a thermoplastic resin, a polyfunctional acrylate, and a radical polymerization initiator and further contains a monofunctional urethane acrylate having a urethane residue at its terminal end. The monofunctional urethane acrylate is represented by the formula (1): CH2═CR0—COO—R1—NHCOO—R2 (1) wherein R0 is a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, R1 is a divalent hydrocarbon group, and R2 is an optionally substituted lower alkyl group.
US08187703B2
The present invention is directed to methods of integrating carbon nanotubes into epoxy polymer composites via chemical functionalization of carbon nanotubes, and to the carbon nanotube-epoxy polymer composites produced by such methods. Integration is enhanced through improved dispersion and/or covalent bonding with the epoxy matrix during the curing process. In general, such methods involve the attachment of chemical moieties (i.e., functional groups) to the sidewall and/or end-cap of carbon nanotubes such that the chemical moieties react with either the epoxy precursor(s) or the curing agent(s) (or both) during the curing process. Additionally, in some embodiments, these or additional chemical moieties can function to facilitate dispersion of the carbon nanotubes by decreasing the van der Waals attractive forces between the nanotubes.
US08187700B2
The present invention relates to a continuous, carbon fiber with nanoscale features comprising carbon and carbon nanotubes, wherein the nanotubes are substantially aligned along a longitudinal axis of the fiber. Also provided is a polyacrylonitrile (PAN) precursor including about 50% to about 99.9% by weight of a melt-spinnable PAN and about 0.01% to about 10% of carbon nanotubes. Other precursor materials such as polyphenylene sulfide, pitch and solution-spinnable PAN are also provided. The precursor can also include a fugitive polymer which is dissociable from the precursor polymer.
US08187698B2
The present invention relates to a cutting tool insert comprising a cemented carbide body and a coating particularly useful in fine to medium-rough turning of stainless-steels. The cemented carbide body consists of a cemented carbide with a composition of 5.0-9.0 wt-% Co, 5.0-11.0 wt-% cubic carbide forming metals from group IVb, Vb and VIb of the periodic table, preferably Ti, Nb and Ta, and balance WC with a 10-30 μm essentially cubic carbide phase free and binder phase enriched surface zone. The coating comprises an MTCVD Ti(C7N) as the first layer adjacent the body having a thickness of from 2.5 to 7.0 μm, on top of which an α-Al2O3 layer is present, with a thickness of between 2.0 and 5.0 μm, and a total thickness of the coating between 5.5 and 9.5 μm. The alumina layer has a (006) texture.
US08187696B2
A circuit substrate laminate, comprising a conductive metal layer; and a dielectric composite material having a dielectric constant of less than about 3.5 and a dissipation factor of less than about 0.006, wherein the dielectric composite material comprises: a polymer resin; and about 10 to about 70 volume percent of cenospheres having a ferric oxide content of less than or equal to 3 weight percent.
US08187693B2
A liquid-controlling surface, comprising a formation comprising a plurality of individual open topped, closed bottomed cells for containing liquid, each of the cells having a cell wall integral with the closed bottom and defining a well; a plurality of distribution channels extending between adjacent cells and being position on the cell wall at a height to permit liquid to drain to the adjacent cell when a cell liquid level exceeds a predetermined limit and to permit liquid to be retained in the well up to the limit; and a perimeter wall surrounding the cells. The perimeter wall having a height higher than the distribution channels to prevent liquid from leaking from the cells to an area outside the perimeter, and where the formation and perimeter wall comprise rubber.
US08187682B2
An element, particularly a transparent element, including at least one glass element, configured as a protective glass against ionizing radiation and/or UV radiation, wherein at least a portion of the surface of the glass element is covered by a film that includes a substance that can be switched into at least two states.
US08187678B2
Ultra-thin hybrid and/or microporous materials and methods for their fabrication are provided. In one embodiment, the exemplary hybrid membranes can be formed including successive surface activation and reaction steps on a porous support that is patterned or non-patterned. The surface activation can be performed using remote plasma exposure to locally activate the exterior surfaces of porous support. Organic/inorganic hybrid precursors such as organometallic silane precursors can be condensed on the locally activated exterior surfaces, whereby ALD reactions can then take place between the condensed hybrid precursors and a reactant. Various embodiments can also include an intermittent replacement of ALD precursors during the membrane formation so as to enhance the hybrid molecular network of the membranes.
US08187676B2
Disclosed are processes for preparing articles having anti-fog properties, comprising providing a substrate having at least one main surface coated with an intermediate coating obtained by applying and at least partially curing an intermediate coating composition comprising at least one monoepoxysilane and/or an hydrolyzate thereof and at least one polyepoxy monomer comprising at least two epoxy groups, forming onto said intermediate coating at least one bi-layer, and curing said at least one bi-layer by heating at a temperature of 150° C. or less at atmospheric pressure and in the absence of added water steam. Also disclosed are articles made and/or makeable by these processes.
US08187673B2
The invention provides a lithographic method referred to as “dip pen” nanolithography (DPN). DPN utilizes a scanning probe microscope (SPM) tip (e.g., an atomic force microscope (AFM) tip) as a “pen,” a solid-state substrate (e.g., gold) as “paper,” and molecules with a chemical affinity for the solid-state substrate as “ink.” Capillary transport of molecules from the SPM tip to the solid substrate is used in DPN to directly write patterns consisting of a relatively small collection of molecules in submicrometer dimensions, making DPN useful in the fabrication of a variety of microscale and nanoscale devices. The invention also provides substrates patterned by DPN, including submicrometer combinatorial arrays, and kits, devices and software for performing DPN. The invention further provides a method of performing AFM imaging in air. The method comprises coating an AFM tip with a hydrophobic compound, the hydrophobic compound being selected so that AFM imaging performed using the coated AFM tip is improved compared to AFM imaging performed using an uncoated AFM tip. Finally, the invention provides AFM tips coated with the hydrophobic compounds.
US08187671B2
There is provided a method of making a heat treated (HT) coated article to be used in shower door applications, window applications, or any other suitable applications where transparent coated articles are desired. For example, certain embodiments of this invention relate to a method of making a coated article including a step of heat treating a glass substrate coated with at least a layer of or including diamond-like carbon (DLC) and an overlying protective film thereon. In certain example embodiments, the protective film may be of or include both (a) an oxygen blocking or barrier layer, and (b) a release layer. Following and/or during heat treatment (e.g., thermal tempering, or the like) the protective film may be removed via blasting it off using particles mainly of material softer than the DLC. In certain example embodiments, the blasting particles may be of or include sodium bicarbonate and/or may be directed at the protective film at a blasting pressure of from about 2.5 to 7.0 bar, more preferably from about 3 to 4.5 bar. In certain example embodiments, the blasting particles may be soluble in water and/or may have a blasting residue which is basic (pH>7), so as to result in a more environmentally friendly process.
US08187669B2
Disclosed are compositions, useful in ink jet printing methods, that prevent clogging during dispensing, achieve stable dispensing, prevent precipitation of content matter during dispensing, and prevent phase separation during film formation. Also disclosed are uniform, homogenous, functional films formed using the compositions and manufacturing methods therefor, as well as organic EL devices and other such display devices and manufacturing methods therefor. The compositions contain a functional material and a solvent comprising at least one benzene derivative having one or more substituents, whereby the substituents have at least three carbon atoms in total.
US08187668B2
A stage on which a substrate having target discharge areas is placed moves relative to a discharge head unit. When at least one of a plurality of first discharge nozzles of the discharge head unit reaches one of the target discharge areas, the first nozzle discharges a first droplet of fluid material to the target discharge area. When one of a plurality of second nozzles of the discharge head unit reaches the target discharge area to which the first droplet has been discharged, the second nozzle discharges a second droplet of the fluid material to the target discharge area. A first nozzle row of the first nozzles and a second nozzle row of the second nozzles are separated by a predetermined distance in a direction of the relative movement of the stage and the discharge head unit.
US08187664B2
The invention provides a method of forming a metallic pattern including: (a) forming, in a pattern form on a substrate, a polymer layer which contains a polymer that has a functional group that interacts with an electroless plating catalyst or a precursor thereof; (b) imparting the electroless plating catalyst or precursor thereof onto the polymer layer; and (c) forming a metallic film in the pattern form by subjecting the substrate having the polymer layer to electroless plating using an electroless plating solution, wherein the substrate is treated using a solution comprising a surface charge modifier or 1×10−10 to 1×10−4 mmol/l of a plating catalyst poison before or during the (c) forming of the metallic film. The invention further provides a metallic pattern obtained thereby. Furthermore, the invention provides a printed wiring board and a TFT wiring board, each of which uses the metallic pattern as a conductive layer.
US08187659B2
A flavored, lubricating solution is applied to a solid medicament by spray, dipping, or otherwise coating the medicament. This liquid coating masks the often objectionable taste of the medicament while lubricating it, and thus significantly improving the ability to swallow the medicament. The improvement to the swallowing process is dramatically enhanced with significant reduction in gag reflex, general un-palatability and inability to move the dosage form completely through the mouth, palate, and esophagus to the stomach without sticking or lodging at any point in the process. The solution is a mixture of viscosity-adhesion-lubricity ingredients which includes polyols and polysaccharides, preservative agents, flavoring agents (to improve the palatability of the solution) and optional dispensing agents.
US08187654B2
The invention concerns a method of producing aged garlic in which its antioxidation capability is significantly increased as compared to that of raw garlic which is used as a raw material for producing the aged garlic without reducing the essential effectiveness of garlic, S-arylcysteine that does not exist in raw garlic is generated, and the content of polyphenol is increased. The method of producing aged garlic according to the invention is characterized by comprising the steps of aging raw garlic with hot air at 40 to 90° C. for about 300 hours, naturally drying the resultant garlic for approximately 40 hours and then ageing the garlic with hot air at 20 to 30° C. for 30 to 50 hours again. In the step of aging the garlic with hot air at 40 to 90° C. for 280 to 320 hours, a plurality of pieces of the raw garlic is placed in a steel bin and then the steel bins are put into a container for aging.
US08187649B2
Described are methods and compositions relating to non-developed dough compositions leavened by chemical leavening systems that include an encapsulated basic chemical leavening agent, wherein the dough composition can be refrigerated in a low pressure package and can exhibit desired browning upon baking.
US08187647B2
An energy composition includes a methylated xanthine, a choline derivative, and at least one flavorant in a sufficient amount to render the energy composition palatable. The energy composition may also include vitamins, amino acids, preservatives, and the like.
US08187646B2
The present invention is related to a method for inhibiting nicotinamide coenzyme degradation in a cereal flour or wheat based product, comprising the addition of an effective amount of nucleotide pyrophosphatase inhibitor to said cereal flour based product, product such as a wheat based product. A further aspect of the present invention is a nucleotide pyrophosphatase having an amino acid N-terminal sequence being (G)IDDRHEVDLPPRP. In another aspect of the present invention, a dough comprising a nucleotide pyrophosphatase inhibitor such as pyrophosphate, and optionally a coenzyme regeneration system comprising at least one NAD(P) or NAD(P)H dependent hydrogenase or dehydrogenase is disclosed. Preferably the coenzyme regeneration system comprises (consists of) mannitol dehydrogenase and D-fructose.
US08187641B2
A chlorella extract-containing product of excellent safety and storage stability is provided without using a benzoate, which is a common preservative. A chlorella extract-containing product containing a capsicum extract at 0.020-1.63% by weight on a dry weight basis relative to a chlorella extract in an aqueous liquid for drinking having the chlorella extract as an principal ingredient. This chlorella extract-containing product is to be used as a chlorella-containing beverage or a chlorella-containing food additive. A method for improving the storage stability of a chlorella extract-containing product, comprising adding a capsicum extract to a chlorella extract at 0.020-1.63% by weight on a dry weight basis in an aqueous liquid for drinking having the chlorella extract as an principal ingredient.
US08187639B2
Compositions having a combination of specific biological components have been found to exert a number of useful effects in mammalian cells, including modulating TGF β signaling, apoptosis, and proliferation of mammalian cells, as well as decreasing inflammation in mice. These components can be obtained commercially, or can be prepared from biological tissues such as placental tissues. Placental amniotic membrane (AM) preparations described herein include AM pieces, AM extracts, AM jelly, AM stroma, and mixtures of these compositions with additional components. The compositions can be used to treat various diseases, such as wound healing, inflammation and angiogenesis-related diseases.
US08187636B2
A dosage form from which a burst release of a drug contained within a tampered dosage form is reduced or retarded by the presence in or on the dosage form of a TPTA (Tamper Prone Therapeutic Agent) trap. If the dosage form has not been tampered with, the TPTA trap does not significantly interfere with the rate of release of the drug from the dosage form. However, if the dosage form has been physically tampered with, the TPTA trap reduces or retards burst release of the drug from the dosage form.
US08187633B2
The present invention relates to a tablet composed of a core and a coating; said core is formed by two or more layers, wherein at least one of them contains an active agent (3). Wherein one of said layers is formulated as a swellable composition (2), the other one (4) is composed of inert compounds retaining its size at least until the coated tablet is emptied from the stomach. The coating composition is selected from the group comprising water insoluble polymers, ph dependent polymers or mixtures thereof. The active agent is released after rupture of the coating.
US08187628B2
A dermal composition for administration of an amphetamine drug comprising a blend of two or more acrylic-based polymers having differing functionalities so as to modulate the drug solubility in the polymer matrix and the delivery rate of the drug, and methods therefor.
US08187624B1
The invention relates to a composition for taking dietary fibers, which comprises 1 to 50% by weight, on the basis of the whole composition, of dietary fibers composed of water-soluble and hardly fermentable dietary fiber and water-soluble and fermentable dietary fiber, wherein the water-soluble and fermentable dietary fiber is contained in a proportion of 0.1 to 3 parts by weight per part by weight of the water-soluble and hardly fermentable dietary fiber. The composition remarkably ameliorates not only bowel movement frequency but also full consciousness, feeling of unsatisfied defecation, etc. and is hence useful as food for ameliorating bowel movement.
US08187623B2
Medical copolymers are provided which comprise (a) a polymer backbone comprising (i) a plurality of —C═C— groups within the polymer backbone, (ii) a plurality of —R9— groups within the polymer backbone, wherein R9 comprises a radical-substituted C2-C10 cyclic or heterocyclic group, or (iii) both a plurality of —C═C— groups and a plurality of —R9— groups within the polymer backbone, (b) a plurality of hydrocarbon-based pendant groups along the polymer backbone that comprise a saturated or unsaturated carbon chain of at least four carbons in length, and (c) a plurality of zwitterionic pendant groups along the polymer backbone that comprise a positively charged quaternary ammonium group and a negatively charged phosphate group. Methods of forming such copolymers, medical products that contain such copolymers, and methods of making such medical products are also disclosed.
US08187621B2
Methods and compositions for treating post-myocardial infarction damage are herein disclosed. In some embodiments, a carrier with a treatment agent may be fabricated. The carrier can be formulated from a bioerodable, sustained-release substance. The resultant loaded carrier may then be suspended in at least one component of a two-component matrix system for simultaneous delivery to a post-myocardial infarction treatment area.
US08187615B2
The present invention provides a composition of low water solubility drug, dissolved or dispersed in a non crystalline or low crystalline form in an emulsion type composition of internal oily-solvent and external non-hydrous and water soluble solvent, whereas 1) emulsifying stabilizer comprises low fraction of the composition, and 2) emulsions of mean droplets size below one micron is obtained upon dilution with physiological fluids, and 3) facilitated dispersion of biologically active agents in body fluids is obtained, and more particularly to facilitating biological availability or improving clinical performance.
US08187607B2
The present invention provides compositions comprising a conjugate of a hapten with a carrier in an ordered and repetitive array, and methods of making such compositions. The conjugates and compositions of the invention may comprise a variety of haptens, including hormones, toxins and drugs, especially drugs of addiction such as nicotine. Compositions and conjugates of the invention are useful for inducing immune responses against haptens, which can use useful in a variety of therapeutic, prophylactic and diagnostic regimens. In certain embodiments, immune responses generated using the conjugates, compositions and methods of the present invention are useful to prevent or treat addiction to drugs of abuse and the resultant diseases associated with drug addiction.teh
US08187606B2
The present invention provides a fusion protein comprising an immunostimulatory polypeptide and a mutant E7 protein of a human papilloma virus. The present invention also provides a gene encoding the fusion protein, expression vectors containing the gene, a pharmaceutical composition comprising the fusion protein, a method for treating or preventing a human papilloma virus related disease by using the fusion protein and uses of the fusion protein in the preparation of a medicament for the treatment or prevention of the human papilloma virus related disease.
US08187604B2
The invention relates to humanized anti-human Factor D monoclonal antibodies, their nucleic acid and amino acid sequences, the cells and vectors that harbor these antibodies and their use in the preparation of compositions and medicaments for treatment of diseases and disorders associated with excessive or uncontrolled complement activation. These antibodies are useful for diagnostics, prophylaxis and treatment of disease.
US08187601B2
Monoclonal antibodies that bind and inhibit activation of fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3) are disclosed. The antibodies can be used to treat cell proliferative diseases and disorders, including certain forms of cancer, associated with activation of FGFR3.
US08187595B2
The present invention provides αVβ3 integrin cysteine loop domain agonists and antagonists (including peptide agonists and antagonists and analogs thereof), along with methods of using the same.
US08187588B2
The invention provides an improved Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae bacterin vaccine composition, which advantageously provides immunity from infection after a single administration. The composition comprises an inactivated Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae bacterin and an adjuvant mixture, which, in combination, provide immunity from Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae infection after a single administration, and elicit an immune response specific to Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae bacterin and including cell-mediated immunity and local (secretory IgA) immunity. In a preferred embodiment, the adjuvant mixture comprises an acrylic acid polymer, most preferably CARBOPOL®, and a mixture of a metabolizable oil such as one or more unsaturated terpene hydrocarbons, preferably squalene or squalane, and a polyoxyethylene-polyoxypropylene block copolymer such as PLURONIC®. The vaccine composition may optionally include a preservative, preferably thimerosol and/or EDTA.
US08187587B2
The present invention discloses the protease stratum corneum chymotrytic enzyme (SCCE) is specifically over-expressed in ovarian and other malignancies. A number of SCCE peptides can induce immune responses to SCCE, thereby demonstrating the potential of these peptides in monitoring and the development of immunotherapies for ovarian and other malignancies.
US08187583B2
Improved oil-in-water emulsions are provided and a method for their manufacture. In particular, the emulsions comprise a means to control delivery of oil-soluble or water-soluble actives in a core comprising a liquid oil or gel oil continuous phase, which actives can be delivered with improved deposition to surfaces such as, in particular, the skin, gastro-intestinal tract and that defined by the oral cavity. The emulsions are also noted for their improved stability.The stable emulsion comprises a stable droplet dispersed in an aqueous phase, the stable droplet comprising a core, a first inner layer coating the core, and a second outer layer coating the first inner layer, wherein the core comprises at least a liquid oil or gel oil continuous phase, wherein the first inner layer comprises at least one at least partially solid uncharged emulsifier and at least one anionic or cationic or zwitterionic emulsifier, the second outer layer comprises a first polycation or first polyanion or first polyzwitterion of opposing charge to the first inner layer, and wherein the at least partially solid uncharged emulsifier forms a solution in the aqueous phase or the liquid oil phase or the gel oil phase at temperatures greater than room temperature, preferably greater than 40, more preferably greater than 50, even more preferably greater than 60 degrees centigrade.The invention also provides a product selected from the group consisting of a food product, a home care product, a personal care product and a pharmaceutical product, wherein each product comprises emulsion of the invention.
US08187582B2
A hair non-permanent styling composition comprising: i) an oligosaccharide comprising 3 to 7 sugar units in which the linkage group between the sugar units is an α1-4 link; and ii) at least one further ingredient selected from the group consisting of a suitable carrier, a styling polymer or a surfactant.
US08187581B2
The invention provides surfactant-containing cosmetic, dermatological, and pharmaceutical agents comprising at least one water-soluble or water-swellable copolymer obtainable by free-radical copolymerization of A) acryloyldimethyltaurine and/or acryloyldimethyltaurates, B) if desired, one or more further olefinically unsaturated, noncationic comonomers, C) if desired, one or more olefinically unsaturated, cationic comonomers, D) if desired, a silicon-containing component(s), E) if desired, a fluorine-containing component(s), F) if desired, one or more macromonomers, G) the copolymerization taking place if desired in the presence of at least one polymeric additive, H) with the proviso that component A) is copolymerized with at least one component selected from one of the groups D) to G).
US08187580B2
Benefit agent delivery systems, compositions incorporating such benefit agent delivery systems, and methods for making the delivery system in the compositions are provided. The benefit agent delivery systems of the present invention employ polymer particles having affinities for selected benefit agents, such as perfume, to form the polymeric assisted benefit agent delivery systems, which can effectively deposit benefit agents onto, onto the surface of a substrate, e.g., fabrics being laundered, hard surfaces, hair, skin or nails.
US08187569B2
A method of making a crystalline molecular sieve of MFS framework type, said method comprising the steps of (a) adding at least one source of ions of tetravalent element (Y), at least one source of ions of trivalent element (X), at least one hydroxide source (OH−), at least one structure-directing-agent (R), at least one seed source (Seed), and water (H2O) to form a mixture having the following mole composition (expressed in term of oxide): YO2:(n)X2O3:(x)OH−:(y)R:(z)H2O+(m)Seed wherein the m is in the range of from about 10 wtppm to about 2 wt. % (based on total weight of the synthesis mixture), the n is in the range of from about 0.005 to 0.05, the x is in the range of from about 0.01 to about 0.3, the y is in the range of from about 0.03 to about 2; and the z is in the range of from about 3 to about 30; and (b) treating said mixture under crystallization conditions to form said crystalline molecular sieve substantially free of non-MFS material, wherein said crystallization conditions comprise a temperature in the range of from about 150° C. to about 250° C., and crystallization time less than 100 hr, the weight hourly throughput is at least 0.001 hr−1.
US08187565B2
The invention is directed to a method of positioning nanoparticles on a patterned substrate. The method comprises providing a patterned substrate with selectively positioned recesses, and applying a solution or suspension of nanoparticles to the patterned substrate to form a wetted substrate. A wiper member is dragged across the surface of the wetted substrate to remove a portion of the applied nanoparticles from the wetted substrate, and leaving a substantial number of the remaining portion of the applied nanoparticles disposed in the selectively positioned recesses of the substrate. The invention is also directed to a method of making carbon nanotubes from the positioned nanoparticles.
US08187562B2
Disclosed is a method for producing a cerium dioxide nanopowder by flame spray pyrolysis. The method comprises dissolving a cerium compound in an organic solvent to prepare a precursor solution, atomizing the precursor solution into microdroplets using an ultrasonic atomizer, transferring the microdroplets together with an argon gas as a carrier gas to a central portion of a high-temperature diffusion flame burner, subjecting the microdroplets to pyrolysis and oxidation in the central portion of the diffusion flame burner to produce a cerium dioxide nanopowder, and collecting the cerium dioxide nanopowder using a collector. According to the method, a cerium dioxide nanopowder can be continuously produced on a large scale by flame spray pyrolysis. In addition, the particle size and uniformity of the cerium dioxide nanopowder can be controlled by appropriately selecting the kind of the solvent and the concentration of the raw material. Furthermore, flame spray pyrolysis allows the cerium dioxide to have a fluorite crystal structure.
US08187561B2
Processes and systems for recovering promoter-containing compounds, for example, perrhenates, from promoter-containing catalyst substrates, for example, substrates containing precious metals, such as silver, are disclosed. The processes include contacting the substrates with a first solution adapted to remove at least some of the catalyst promoter from the substrates, for example, an oxidizing agent, to produce a second solution containing catalyst promoter, passing the second solution through a porous medium adapted to capture at least some of the catalyst promoter, for example, a ion exchange resin; and passing a third solution, for example, a base solution, through the porous medium to remove at least some of the catalyst promoter from the porous medium and produce a fourth solution containing compounds having a catalyst promoter. Systems adapted to practice these processes are also disclosed.
US08187556B2
This invention relates to new methods & kits that minimize the risks and challenges associated with sterilization of multi-component medical devices.
US08187553B2
A microreactor may include a reaction channel having at least one curved microchannel, the at least one curved microchannel having an outer and inner curved surfaces and being configured to generate a centrifugal force, an inlet configured to supply at least one reactant into the reaction channel, and an outlet bifurcated into a first sub-outlet in communication with the inner curved surface of the at least one curved microchannel and a second sub-outlet in communication with the outer curved surface of the at least one curved microchannel.
US08187551B2
An apparatus 1 for manufacturing trichlorosilane includes a decomposition furnace 2 into which polymers and hydrogen chloride are introduced, the decomposition furnace 2 includes: a heating device 11 which heats an interior of the decomposition furnace 2; a reaction chamber 4 which is formed in the decomposition furnace; a center tube 3 which is inserted in the reaction chamber 4 along a longitudinal direction of the reaction chamber and has a lower-end opening portion 3a; raw-material-supply pipes 5 and 6 which supplies the polymer and the hydrogen chloride to the reaction chamber 4 at an exterior of the center tube 3; and a gas-discharge pipe 7 which leads out reacted gas from the center tube 3, the apparatus 1 further includes a fin 14 that leads the polymer and the hydrogen chloride to the lower-end opening portion 3a of the center tube 3 so as to stir the polymer and the hydrogen chloride.
US08187545B2
An hourglass-shaped cavitation chamber is provided. The chamber is comprised of two large spherical regions separated by a smaller cylindrical region. Coupling the regions are two transitional sections which are preferably smooth and curved. Although the chamber is preferably fabricated from a machinable material, such as a metal, it can also be fabricated from a fragile material, such as a glass. An acoustic driver assembly is incorporated within the chamber wall at one end of the cavitation chamber. The driver can be threadably coupled to the chamber or attached using an epoxy, diffusion bonding, brazing or welding. O-rings or other seals can be used to seal the driver to the chamber. The head surface of the driver assembly can be flush, recessed, or extended from the internal chamber surface. The head surface of the driver assembly can be flat or shaped. If desired, a second acoustic driver assembly can be incorporated within the chamber wall at the other end of the cavitation chamber. Preferably the driver or drivers are attached such that their central axis is coaxial with the central axis of the cavitation chamber. Coupling conduits which can be used to fill/drain the chamber as well as couple the chamber to a degassing and/or circulatory system can be attached to one, or both, ends of the chamber. When used, preferably the conduit or conduits are attached off-axis.
US08187543B2
An electrochemical gas sensor is provided comprising a gas-permeable and substantially ion- and liquid-impermeable membrane for separating an aqueous outer solution and an inner electrolyte solution comprising a gas-permeable film of a hydrophilic polymer consisting essentially of non-covalently cross-linked polymer chains, wherein the film is present directly at least on the side of the membrane facing the aqueous outer solution, which has a surface wettability for the aqueous outer solution that is higher than the surface wettability of the membrane for the aqueous outer solution.
US08187539B2
An assembly for determining material properties and/or material concentrations of components of a sample, containing: a chromatographic separating column with a liquid mobile solvent; means for controlling the temperature inside the separating column between room temperature and 250° C.; means for creating a pressure level which is greater than ambient pressure inside the separating column; and a detector with a sample volume adapted to insert the components of the sample, is characterized in that the mobile solvent contains water to a large extent; means are provided for expanding the mobile solvent from the increased pressure level inside the separating column to the ambient pressure and for producing a phase change of the mobile solvent from the liquid to gaseous state; and means are provided for transferring the gaseous mobile solvent containing the components of the sample into the sample volume of the detector.
US08187534B2
The present invention provides porous barrier compositions comprising color change indicators and methods of making and using the same.
US08187533B2
Systems and methods for using a scent elimination device to conceal contraband and then training service animals to determine if an ozone-based scent-removal technique has been used to remove scent from contraband are disclosed. The systems and methods comprise providing a plurality of packages. At least one of the plurality of packages containing a predetermined amount of a contraband substance. Further, the systems and methods comprise generating a gaseous stream of descenting material from a portable device. The gaseous stream of descenting material contains ozone. Further, the systems and methods comprise dispersing the gaseous stream of descenting material over the contraband in a concentration sufficient to eliminate the scent. The descented contraband may be placed in an enclosure for transport. Further, the systems and methods comprise introducing a service animal to the plurality of packages. Finally, the systems and methods comprise rewarding the service animal for the successful detection of the at least one of the plurality of packages containing the ozone-based scent remover.
US08187532B2
This ring-shaped disk for a gas turbine includes a ring-shaped disk material consisting of a Ni-based alloy, wherein the Ni-based alloy has a composition that includes, in terms of percent by mass, Ni: 50.00 to 55.00%, Cr: 17.0 to 21.0%, Nb: 4.75 to 5.60%, Mo: 2.8 to 3.3%, Ti: 0.65 to 1.15%, Al: 0.20 to 0.80%, and C: 0.01 to 0.08%, with the balance being Fe and inevitable impurities, and has a microstructure in which δ phase particles are distributed in a matrix thereof, and wherein, in the microstructure, flattened δ phase particles of which maximum length directions are oriented at angles within a range of 60 to 120° with respect to a radial direction of the ring-shaped disk material are present in an amount of 60% or more of a total amount of the δ phase particles distributed in the matrix.
US08187526B2
A method for operating a change converter unit of an oxygen steel-making plant, in which, for the change process, a worn converter, including the entire converter unit, made up of not only the converter, but also the converter carriage, carrier ring, tilting drive, bottom flushing device and, if present, a carrier ring cooling device, is moved out of the steel-making stand into an empty delivery and waiting stand for repair, and, at the same time, a further structurally identical complete converter unit, made up of a repaired, ready-to-use converter, is moved from a further delivery and waiting stand into the steel-making stand.
US08187514B2
A bowl-shaped container (10a) which is as a biodegradable molded article adheres a coating film (12) mainly made of biodegradable plastic and having at least hydrophobicity to the surface of the main body (11a) of the container mainly made of starch. The main body (11a) is molded through steam expansion of a slurry or dough molding material containing high-amylose starch and water, or a slurry or dough molding material containing starch, polyvinyl alcohol and water. For these reasons, it is possible to accomplish sufficient strength and at least sufficient water resistance, to exert a very excellent biodegradability and further to provide a biodegradable molded article having excellent moisture absorption strength mainly made of starch even if the biodegradable molded article has a complicated shape.
US08187507B2
A method for producing a GaN crystal capable of achieving at least one of the prevention of nucleation and the growth of a high-quality non-polar surface is provided. The production method of the present invention is a method for producing a GaN crystal in a melt containing at least an alkali metal and gallium, including an adjustment step of adjusting the carbon content of the melt, and a reaction step of causing the gallium and nitrogen to react with each other. According to the production method of the present invention, nucleation can be prevented, and as shown in FIG. 4, a non-polar surface can be grown.
US08187502B2
Certain spin-coatable liquids and application techniques are described, which can be used to form nanotube films or fabrics of controlled properties. A spin-coatable liquid for formation of a nanotube film includes a liquid medium containing a controlled concentration of purified nanotubes, wherein the controlled concentration is sufficient to form a nanotube fabric or film of preselected density and uniformity, and wherein the spin-coatable liquid comprises less than 1×1018 atoms/cm3 of metal impurities. The spin-coatable liquid is substantially free of particle impurities having a diameter of greater than about 500 nm.
US08187488B2
An electret composite comprising a polymer matrix material that contains particles of a piezoelectric material with deep trapping centers on the interphase boundaries between the matrix and particles of a piezoelectric material. The piezoelectric material may have a tetragonal or a rhombohedral structure, and the polymer matrix material may be selected from high-density polyethylene, polyvinylidene fluoride, and a copolymer of vinylidenechloride and tetrafluoroethylene. The composite has a potential difference>500V, lifespan>10 years, dielectric permeability≧20, specific electric resistance≧1014 Ohm·m; provision of deep trapping centers on the interphase boundaries with activation energy in the range of 1 to 1.25 eV, and stable electret charge.
US08187484B2
The invention relates to a process for etching a substrate (3) in an etching chamber (1) with a plasma ignited outside of the etching chamber (1). The process is characterized in that during the etching process at least temporarily at least one gas jet (10) is directed from the side to the radical stream (7) which is directed towards the substrate (3). Furthermore the invention relates to an etching chamber for etching of a substrate (3) with a substrate holder (2) and a plasma source (4) remote to the substrate holder (2), which is characterized in that between the substrate holder (2) and the plasma source (4) at least one nozzle (9) for lateral introduction of a gas jet (10) into the etching chamber (1) is provided. With this invention the distribution of the active species on the surface of a substrate can be easily influenced.
US08187475B2
A device for isolating a component of a multi-component composition. The device includes a housing, a chamber, and a withdrawal port. The chamber is rotatably mounted within the housing. The chamber includes a chamber base and a sidewall. The side wall extends from the chamber base. At least a portion of the sidewall is defined by a filter that permits passage of a first component of the multi-component composition out of the chamber through the filter and to the housing base. The filter restricts passage of a second component of the multi-component composition through the filter. The withdrawal port extends from a position proximate to the housing base to an exterior of the device. The withdrawal port permits the withdrawal of the first component from the housing base to an exterior of the device.
US08187473B2
The present invention provides a functional transition metal silicate (FTMS) effective as a decontaminant, a disinfectant, a detoxificant, a protectant, a microbicide or combination thereof, comprising a ratio of transition metal to silica in the transition metal silicate in a predetermined range and a structural composition for said effectiveness, said FTMS being capable of being immobilized on a suitable materials or incorporating into resins and/or coating along with resins on suitable materials.
US08187470B2
Some mineral processing plants encounter difficulties in dewatering pulps using clarifier/thickener (C/T) equipment due to a layer of fine particles, air bubbles and chemicals formed at the top of the liquid in the thickener. Such layers are very stable and form a cap on the C/T. The dewatering performance of the C/T then deteriorates under these conditions, and a high percentage of solids is contained in the thickener overflow. A process for removing water from rock slurry containing a wide range of particle sizes in mineral processing operations has been developed. The process includes: (a) classifying the feed slurry into two size fractions, namely a coarse fraction and a fine fraction, (b) treating the fine fraction (and the coarse fraction if required) with a selected flocculant, and (3) thickening the flocculated slurry in sedimentation equipment to separate liquid from solids.
US08187467B2
Phosphate depletion, a physiological condition commonly seen in certain patient populations, including alcoholics, malnourished, acutely ill patients, patients receiving parenteral nutrition, patients being re-fed after prolonged fasting, and dialysis patients, requires intravenous supplementation when oral repletion is not feasible. This invention provides a method and pharmaceutical composition for therapeutic administration of pyrophosphate, instead of phosphate, for phosphate or pyrophosphate repletion. During hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis significant removal of phosphate and pyrophosphate occurs. Pyrophosphate depletion predisposes patients to vascular calcification. This invention further provides a method and pharmaceutical composition for therapeutic administration of pyrophosphate for phosphate or pyrophosphate repletion by addition of pyrophosphate to hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis solutions.
US08187465B2
A blood filtering device for the recuperation of blood from wound drained blood, in particular for an autologous blood transfusion system, has a first filter arranged upstream of a second filter. The first filter is adapted for removing emboli and/or large particulate matter from the blood and for allowing red blood cells to pass. The second filter is adapted for retaining red blood cells. An exit port is arranged downstream of the first filter and upstream of the second filter. The device is characterised in that the second filter has a pore size of more than about 0.5 μm. A method of recuperating blood from wound drained blood is also disclosed.
US08187464B2
Water from underground and other sources is brackish and not suitable for human consumption. Naturally present dissolved chemicals in water make it brackish. The precipitants and dissolved chemicals need to be separated from water to make it consumable. A combination of aeration systems, filtration systems, crystallizers and hydrophobic membrane carrying filter are used to desalinate the brackish water. Pressure retarded osmosis process using an apparatus is also used to further purify water. Various heat exchange apparatus are used for energy conservation and efficient processing of water in a feasible way. The disclosure enables to purify water and provide a useful technology to eradicate water scarcity.
US08187457B2
A test paper includes a porous membrane capable of separating an object that should be filtered out of a sample by filtration, the porous membrane carrying a reagent capable of reacting with a specified component of the sample to result in coloring. The porous membrane includes a first layer having a surface on which the sample is supplied and a second layer having a surface at which sample percolation and measuring are effected, the first layer composed of large pore portions, the surface of the first layer consisting of a smooth surface having open pore portions, the second layer composed of minute pore portions the surface of the second layer consisting of a surface having open pore portions. The porous membrane has a thickness of 50 to 200 μm and a porosity of 60 to 95%.
US08187453B2
A method for the determination of the amount of cholesterol in a sample is provided. The method typically provides a breakdown of the HDL and LDL cholesterol contents of the sample.
US08187445B2
Microwave source and polarizer which is formed of an electroformed monobloc comprising a thick plate or septum, greater than 1 mm in thickness. Frequencies of application include the 7.25 GHz and 8.4 GHz frequency bands.
US08187443B2
A cell separating apparatus that can easily separate target cells contained in a fluid is provided. Target cells and a fluid are injected through a storage hole, and ejected to the outside of a rotation disk under the influence of a centrifugal force of the rotation disk. An electric field is applied to the outside of the rotation disk, and the target cells are gathered at a different position from the fluid due to di-electrophoresis. In addition, pivot arms placed at an outer surface of the rotation disk are open, and the open pivot arms collect the target cells. The collected target cell flow in a different storage portion through a fluid flow path. As a result, the target cells can be easily separated.
US08187440B2
A method of coating a magnesium-based substrate includes applying a first potential of electric current to the substrate and, after applying, immersing the substrate in an electrocoat coating composition. After immersing, a second potential of electric current is applied between the substrate and a counter electrode to deposit the electrocoat coating composition onto the substrate. The second potential is greater than the first potential. The method also includes curing the electrocoat coating composition to form a cured film and thereby coat the substrate. An electrocoat coating system includes the magnesium-based substrate, and the cured film disposed on the substrate and formed from the electrocoat coating composition. The substrate exhibits a negative charge from an applied first potential of electric current of ≦ approximately 40 V prior to contact with the electrocoat coating composition. The magnesium-based substrate is substantially free from magnesium dissolution when in contact with the electrocoat coating composition.
US08187416B2
An antenna for coupling RF energy to a plasma in a process chamber having a wall comprises a coil having a face exposed to the plasma in the chamber. A plurality of standoffs support the coil at a set spacing from the wall of the process chamber, at least one standoff comprising a terminal thorough which electrical power is applied to the coil from an external power source. The terminal comprises a conductor receptacle having a first length L1 and a jacket around the conductor receptacle, the jacket having a second length L2. The length L1 is larger than the length L2. A conductor cup is provided about the standoff having the terminal.
US08187411B2
Provided are a temporal fixation method in processing of optical members and a resin composition suitable therefor. The present invention provides a composition which is characterized by comprising (A1): a (meth)acrylate with a molecular weight of at least 500 having at least one (meth)acryloyl group at a terminal or in a side chain of a molecule, (B1): a polyfunctional (meth)acrylate, (C1): a (meth)acrylate other than (A1) and (B1), and (D1): a photopolymerization initiator. The invention also provides a method for temporarily fixing a member, characterized by comprising bonding a member to temporarily fix it with use of the composition, processing the temporarily fixed member, and immersing the processed member in warm water of at most 90° C., thereby removing a cured resin of the composition.
US08187387B2
Disclosed herein are a dryer and a method of controlling a cleaning operation thereof that are capable of supplying moisture into a drying chamber of the dryer to wet contaminants in the drying chamber and blowing air to the wetted contaminants to remove the contaminants. The method includes supplying moisture into a drying chamber to wet contaminants in the drying chamber and removing the contaminants wetted by the moisture.
US08187384B2
Disclosed herein is a vacuum processing apparatus for performing a desired process for a substrate after establishing a vacuum atmosphere therein. More particularly, the vacuum processing apparatus includes a vacuum chamber, which is divided into a chamber body and an upper cover. The upper cover is configured to be easily opened away from and closed to the chamber body.
US08187382B2
A polycrystalline silicon manufacturing apparatus is provided which supplies raw gas to the inside of a reaction furnace and supplies a current from an electrode to a silicon seed rod in a state where the vertically extending silicon seed rod is uprightly stood on each of the plural electrodes disposed in a bottom plate portion of the reaction furnace so as to heat the silicon seed rod and thus to deposit polycrystalline silicon on a surface of the silicon seed rod by means of the reaction of the raw gas.
US08187374B2
The invention relates to a process for manufacturing clinker from a raw mix, implementing the following: preheating of the raw mix by combustion flue gases; precalcination of the raw mix; and calcination of the precalcined raw mix in a rotary kiln, in which process the precalcination and the calcination in the rotary kiln produce combustion flue gases that contain CO2, in which the combustion flue gases created by the precalcination undergo a CO2-removal treatment without said flue gases mixing with the combustion flue gases created by the calcination in the rotary kiln.
US08187363B2
A process for improving the thermodynamic efficiency of a hydrogen generation system is provided. This includes producing a syngas stream in a reformer, wherein the reformer has a combustion zone. This also includes introducing a syngas stream into a pressure swing adsorption unit, thereby producing a product hydrogen stream and a tail gas stream. This also includes heating the tail gas stream by indirect heat exchange with a heat source, thereby producing a heated tail gas stream; and introducing the heated tail gas stream into the combustion zone.
US08187362B2
Apparatuses and methods for reducing pollutants in a gas stream are disclosed. The gas stream is introduced into a condensation chamber to condense the gas stream. It then proceeds into a first reaction chamber adapted to electrochemically alter the gas stream. From there, the gas stream is directed into a reduction chamber adapted to reduce pollutants and a resonance chamber adapted to ionize the gas stream. The gas stream is then directed into a second reaction chamber adapted to further reduce pollutants in the stream. After treatment, the gas stream may be discharged into the atmosphere or recirculated through the apparatus to further reduce pollutants in the gas stream, the latter providing for a closed-looped system.
US08187357B2
The invention relates to a process for producing a metal melt containing at least one base metal and at least one further alloy constituent, wherein the production takes place in a melting vessel with slag covering the melt. In accordance with the invention, for increasing the content of the alloy constituent of the melt, an additive is fed to the melt which contains said alloy constituent at a content of ≧5-10 percent by weight of the alloy constituent, ≧5-10 percent by weight of melting metallurgically harmless volatile matter, ≦5 percent by weight of sulfur and possibly fractions of further alloy constituents and/or slag formers. The additive is obtainable by ore leaching and by precipitation in the form of hydroxides and/or carbonates. The invention also relates to such an additive.
US08187352B2
A filter bag is longitudinally formed in a frusto-conical shape The filter bag has a plurality of radially extending members that form a propeller shaped cross-section, and a propeller-shaped molded bottom that enhances dust fall from the exterior. A frusto-conically-shaped inner cage facilitates the shape of the filter bag of the filter element.
US08187341B2
The present invention provides a process for improving the colorfastness, ozonefastness, and stainresistance of cationic dyeable nylon fibers dyed with basic dyestuffs wherein the process comprises the steps of treating the nylon fibers with a tannic acid product and then fixing the treated nylon fibers by a fixation method.
US08187333B2
Prosthesis for inserting into a damaged intervertebral disc having an elongated tubular main prosthesis body with a length to fit laterally from one side of a disc to the other at its mid-plane. The main prosthesis body has a vertical height slightly greater than the height of normal disc space of the damaged intervertebral disc into which it is to be implanted, and a shape in cross section normal to its longitudinal axis so that main prosthesis body makes appropriate contact with vertebrae abutting to the damaged intervertebral disc. Heads having a vertical height greater than the vertical height of the main prosthesis body are mounted on the ends of the main prosthesis body. A method for implanting from one side only and a method for explanting from one side only.
US08187322B2
A drug eluting stent comprising a multilayer tubular structure which includes at least one intermediate layer having reservoirs therein for deposition of a drug, the intermediate layer eluting drug in a lateral direction, and methods of making the same.
US08187316B2
An implantable graft device having treated yarn is disclosed. The device includes a graft body forming a lumen defining a longitudinal axis and having proximal and distal ends. The graft body is constructed from a woven fabric having warp yarns aligned in a first direction and a weft yarns aligned in a second direction. At least one of the weft yarns and the warp yarns has an agent applied thereto defining treated yarns of the graft body.
US08187307B2
Spinous process constraint structures include a first attachment element for placement over a first spinous process and a second attachment element for placement over a second spinous process. The attachment elements are joined by a single connector which may optionally include a compliance member for providing controlled elasticity between the spinous processes.
US08187301B2
A suture lock to be used with a suture thread. The suture lock comprises at least one passageway for receiving a suture thread, with the passageway having at least a portion of its length having a longitudinal side opening arranged to slidably receive the suture. The passageway is tapered inwardly and including an interior surface having inwardly converging teeth. The invention may also comprise a suture lock having an adjustable channel located within the suture lock. The channel may be adjusted between an open and a closed position, thereby allowing the suture to be secured. Translation of the suture itself may be utilized to adjust the positioning of the channel. The suture lock may contain a releasable device to retain the channel in multiple positions between the closed and open position.
US08187300B2
The present invention provides an organopexy tool (10, 40) comprising a locking part (11, 41) and suture thread (12, 42). Locking part (11, 41) is made of a rod-shaped part (13, 14), and the coil spring (14) that covers the rod-shaped part (13, 43) and is affixed to one end (13a, 43a) of rod-shaped part (13, 43), and suture thread (12, 42) is connected to the middle of rod-shaped part (13, 43) through the inside of coil spring (14) from one end (13b, 43b) of rod-shaped part (13, 43). Insertion tool (20, 50) has a puncture needle (21) for insertion that can house the locking part (11, 41) and a tubular push-out part (22) that is inserted into puncture needle (21) to push locking part (11, 41) out of the tip (25).
US08187298B2
An embolic protection device for capturing emboli during treatment of a stenotic lesion in a body vessel is provided. The device includes an inflatable frame having a deployed state and an undeployed state and a filter attached to the inflatable frame for capturing emboli. The inflatable frame includes a distal portion having a predetermined shape and extending freely to a closed distal end when the inflatable frame is in the deployed state. The filter includes a lip attached to the inflatable frame to define an open end of the filter when the inflatable frame is in the deployed state, a body extending from the lip and disposed about the inflatable frame, and a closed tail configured to capture the emboli during treatment of the stenotic lesion.
US08187295B2
The invention provides a lancing apparatus for moving a lancet holder (32) retaining a lancet in a lancing direction (N1) from a standby position to a lancing position together with the lancet so as to cause the lancet to stick into an object. In the lancing apparatus the lancet is inserted into the lancet holder (32) in a retreating direction (N2), thus to be retained by the lancet holder. The lancet holder (32) includes a first member and a second member (33, 34) relatively movable with respect to each other, so that the first and the second members (33), (34) are relatively moved so as to fix the lancet. Preferably, the lancet holder (32) is constructed such that at least either of the first and the second members (33, 34) applies a pressing force to the lancet, so as to fix the lancet.
US08187285B2
A portable and disposable device is provided for processing harvested dermal tissue. The device includes a housing presenting a handle having a gripping surface and a cutting head attached to the handle. A cutting assembly is supported by the cutting head and includes a plurality of spaced cutting blades that are rotatable with respect to the housing. A receptacle is disposed downstream of the cutting assembly and receives the sliced tissue from the cutting blades. The device is thus operable to slice harvested tissue into strips, and further into fine particles, that can be used for transplantation onto a wound site.
US08187282B2
The ancillary tool according to the invention comprises a plate which defines a convex surface intended to bear against the glenoid cavity of a patient's scapula and which forms a directional guide for a drilling, fashioning or like member. To allow the surgeon to apply this member in a chosen direction, the tool comprises means for adjusting the position of the guide with respect to the plate.
US08187278B2
The invention relates to a method of photoeradication of cellular and acellular organisms including the steps of providing a surface acting agent containing benzalkonium chloride in association with a cellular or acellular organism, the surface acting agent disorienting a membrane structure so that said membrane no longer functions as an effective osmotic barrier; providing a photosensitive material in association with the cellular or acellular organism; and applying light in association with the cellular or acellular organism to cause a disruption of the organism. The method according to the present invention may be utilized in invitro and invivo treatment protocols for infections, sterilization procedures, cancer cell eradication, virus and fungus eradication, spore eradication, and biofilm organism eradication. Additional aspects of the invention include particular combinations of photosensitive materials and surfactants for use in photodynamic therapies.
US08187275B2
Systems, devices and methods are disclosed for treating fractures. The systems, devices and methods may include one or both of an implant, such as an intramedullary nail, and a fastening assembly, such as a lag screw and compression screw assembly. The implant in some embodiments has a proximal section with a transverse aperture and a cross-section that may be shaped to more accurately conform to the anatomical shape of cortical bone and to provide additional strength and robustness in its lateral portions, preferably without requiring significant additional material. The fastening assembly may be received to slide, in a controlled way, in the transverse aperture of the implant. In some embodiments, the engaging member and the compression device are configured so that the compression device interacts with a portion of the implant and a portion of the engaging member to enable controlled movement between the first and second bone fragments. This configuration is useful for, among other things, compressing a fracture.
US08187260B1
A cryosurgical system for assisting an operator in placing and operating cryosurgical probes in the prostate of a human patient. The cryosurgical system includes a computer system being programmed with software capable of performing the following steps: a) capturing a plurality of transverse views of the prostate; b) capturing a sagittal view of the prostate; c) outlining the capsule of the prostate, the urethra and the rectal wall of the patient with the assistance of the operator, utilizing the captured plurality of transverse views and the captured sagittal view; d) constructing a 3-dimensional model of the prostate, the urethra and the rectal wall utilizing the outlines of step c), above; and, e) utilizing the 3-dimensional model of the prostate, the urethra and the rectal wall to determine i) the number of cryosurgical probes to be utilized; ii) probe settings; and, iii) probe placement positions. The resultant ice thus produced by the cryosurgical probes is optimized for a specific patient.
US08187253B2
A low profile adaptor for use with a medical catheter. In one embodiment, the adaptor comprises a lower connector portion, an upper connector portion and a valve. The lower connector portion comprises a tubular portion and an annular portion, the annular portion radially surrounding the tubular portion along an intermediate length thereof. A helical thread is formed on the inside surface of the tubular portion. A circular lip projects upwardly a short distance from the top surface of the annular portion. The upper connector portion comprises a tubular section adapted for insertion into the tubular portion of the lower connector portion. An external helical thread is formed on the tubular section of the upper connector portion for mating engagement with the thread on the interior of the tubular portion of the lower connector portion. The upper connector portion also includes an annular base. The top of the base is shaped to include a cavity for receiving the valve, the cavity being in fluid communication with the tubular section. A double-walled circular lip is formed on the bottom of the base, the double-walled lip being sized and shaped to define a groove adapted to matingly receive the lip on the upper connector portion. In use, the lower connector portion is inserted into the end of a catheter, and the tubular section of the upper connector portion is screwed into the tubular portion of the lower connector, with the catheter being ensnared between the lips of the upper and lower connector portions.
US08187251B2
Methods and apparatus of embodiments of the invention are adapted to treat tissue inside a patient's body. Aspects of the invention can be used in a wide variety of applications, but certain embodiments provide minimally invasive alternatives for treating atrial fibrillation by delivering a tissue-damaging agent to selected areas of the heart. One exemplary embodiment of the invention provides a method of treating cardiac arrhythmia. This method includes positioning a distal tissue-contacting portion of a body in surface contact with a tissue surface of cardiac tissue; detecting the surface contact between the tissue-contacting portion and the tissue surface; and thereafter, injecting a tissue-ablating agent into the cardiac tissue through the tissue-contacting portion of the body.
US08187236B1
A device for irrigating cerumen from one's ear canal, which includes a universal adaptor affixed to the spout of a lavatory faucet (one which allows the cold and hot to be mixed); a flow line extending from the adaptor; a valve on the adaptor, which when opened allows for adjusting the temperature and force of flow by feeling the flow at a nozzle on the second end of the flow line; a cup for placement over the ear to contain the water flow; a double loop within the cup to mount a first loop to a tragus portion of the outer ears for directing fluid flow from the nozzle into the ear canals, a second loop engaged around a probe to limit the depth the nozzle is able to enter the ear canal; and a return line for returning water and debris collected from the ear canal into the lavatory.
US08187235B2
A protector includes a supporting member mounted on a needle assembly having a needle main body; an outer cover member arranged to incline to the needle main body by having an arm axially supported to the supporting member; and an inner cover member arranged inside the outer cover member. The outer cover member has a cylindrical body having a needle slit extending in an axial direction for insertion of the needle main body. The inner cover member has an arcuate column, which interlocks with the needle assembly when the outer cover member inclines to insert the needle main body into the needle slit, and rotates by sliding on the inner surface of the cylindrical body. The arcuate column has a circular arc cross-section with an area facing at least the needle slit opened to the cylindrical body at an opened position, the needle slit being covered at a closed position.
US08187227B2
A barrier of a vacuum pump prevents contamination from entering a vacuum pump air line. The barrier separates parts of the pump and is moveable between an initial state and a distended state. The barrier is assembled within the pump with a pre-load. When the vacuum source is applied to the barrier, the barrier achieves a distended state and when the vacuum source is released, the barrier incrementally self returns to an initial state. The geometry and material construction of the barrier, along with the pre-load, assists in returning the barrier on its own to the initial state from the distended state.
US08187223B2
In one embodiment, balloons are intended for use in valvuloplasty of stenosed aortic valves, with a potential use for valvuloplasty of other heart valves as well. Their common special feature is that the entire or part of their external surface is covered by a drug that is eluted at the valve tissues during the balloon brief contact with them at the time of dilatation. The drug acts against the process of restenosis, which almost uniformly occurs after some time. The shape of the balloon can be the classical cylindrical or an hour-glass shape that facilitates targeted delivery of the drug at the valve tissues. Additional balloon shapes are described for usage after valvuloplasty is carried out in order to achieve targeted drug delivery in the upper or both surfaces of the leaflets, and for prolonged contact with the valve tissues without interruption of blood circulation. An advantage of the balloons is that the local delivery of the drug will significantly reduce the likelihood of restenosis. As a result the procedural benefits for the patient are sustained in the long term, and the procedure from alleviating progresses into end-therapy.
US08187198B2
An improved system for measuring changes in blood flow, particularly in the context of an automatic arrhythmia treatment device. The system includes a heater, exposable to a bloodstream, a driver providing power to the heater, a temperature sensor, isolated from the blood stream and thermally coupled to the temperature of the heater and a measurement circuit coupled to the temperature sensor, providing signals indicative of blood flow. The system may include an intravascular lead having a lead body wherein the heater is mounted to the lead body so as to dissipate its generated heat into the blood. The heater and temperature sensor may be thermally insulated from the lead body and the heater and the temperature sensor may be on substantially a single isotherm during operation.
US08187187B2
Shear wave imaging is provided in medical diagnostic ultrasound. A region is imaged to determine a location in which to calculate shear velocity. The shear velocity is estimated for the location. The imaging may guide the identification of the location, reducing the time to determine useful shear information. The estimate of shear may be validated, such as using cross-validation, to indicate the confidence level of the shear value. The shear velocity may be displayed relative to a scale of shear velocities associated with a type of tissue, such as tissue for an organ. The location on a scale may be more intuitive for a user.
US08187186B2
An ultrasonic diagnostic imaging method and system are described for detecting abnormalities in the synchronicity of heart wall stimulation. Points on opposite sides of a chamber of the heart are identified in a starting ultrasound image, then tracked through at least a portion of the heart cycle. The changing positions of lines extending between pairs of the points are accumulated and displayed in a color kinesis display in which each color depicts the location of a line at a particular point in the cardiac cycle. In an illustrated example the points are tracked through the cardiac cycle by speckle tracking of the speckle pattern of the adjacent myocardial tissue, tracking specific anatomy, or tracking tissue texture.
US08187180B2
A retractor with a video system that has a blade portion detachably secured thereto is disclosed. In one embodiment, the video system is sealed within the retractor during use so that it need not be sterilized between uses. The blade portion is either reusable, in which case only it needs to be sterilized between uses, or the blade portion is disposable, thereby further preventing inadvertent contamination of the patient. The video system can be detachably secured to a variety of different shaped blade portions, thereby allowing the retractor, with its single video system, to operate effectively as a straight or curved blade laryngoscope, anoscope, colposcope, and the like.
US08187175B2
An endoscope according to an aspect of the invention includes an image pickup connector portion projecting from one end side of an endoscope connector and connected to a first electrical contact of a video processor, and a magnification change connector portion projecting from the other end side of the endoscope connector opposite to the one end side and connected to a second electrical contact of a magnification control device.
US08187171B2
A video endoscope comprises an elongate shaft having a longitudinal axis, and a handpiece at the proximal end of the shaft, a distal end of the shaft being provided with a lens and, in the proximal direction from the lens, with an electronic image pickup. The image pickup is connected, via an electrical connection extending along the shaft, to an electrical connector piece arranged on the handpiece. The image pickup and the connector piece can rotate relative to each other about the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The electrical connection comprises at least one flexible, elongate circuit board, which is able to twist about its longitudinal direction and has at least one conductor track.
US08187166B2
A system for the implementation of minimally invasive diagnoses and interventions in the inside of the body of a patient has an endo-robot that has a linear magnet and carries measurement instruments and/or instruments for taking specimens and/or for treatment. The endo-robot is freely mobile within the body of a patient. A magnet system accepts the examination region of the patient and generates a 3D gradient field for remotely-controls movement and orientation of the endo-robot in the patient's body by interaction with the linear magnet.
US08187164B2
A plurality of structures that resiliently attract one another are provided for implanting in a patient around a body tissue structure of the patient. For example, the body tissue structure may be the esophagus, and the plurality of structures may be implanted in an annulus around the outside of the esophagus, the annulus being substantially coaxial with the esophagus. The attraction may be between annularly adjacent ones of the structures in the annulus, and it may be provided, for example, by magnets or springs. The array of structures is preferably self-limiting with respect to the smallest area that it can encompass, and this smallest area is preferably large enough to prevent the apparatus from applying excessive pressure to tissue passing through that area.
US08187162B2
Various methods and devices are provided for reorienting an implantable port. In one embodiment, an implantable port is provided and includes a base adapted to be anchored to tissue, and a housing pivotally mounted on the base and having a septum formed therein and adapted to receive fluid and to provide access to a fluid reservoir formed within the housing. In an exemplary embodiment, the housing can be pivotally mounted to the base using a ball and socket joint. For example, at least one of a distal surface of the housing and a proximal surface of the base is convex, and the other one of the distal surface of the housing and the proximal surface of the base is concave.
US08187156B2
A wheelchair gym having a support bar releasably connected to the frame of the wheelchair. A vertical post is attached to the support bar and hand grips are slidably mounted on the vertical post. The hand grips are resiliently biased and may be moved conjointly or opposite to one another to provide arm exercise for a patient in the wheelchair. The gym also has leg supports on which resiliently biased foot rests may be moved conjointly or opposite to one another. The leg supports may be moved up and down or may be splayed laterally.
US08187151B2
A method for controlling the oil supply device of an automatic planetary transmission, having a main oil pump and an auxiliary oil pump. The transmission is part of a parallel hybrid vehicle powertrain. To supply oil to the transmission as needed, the current oil requirement of the transmission is determined depending on at least one current operating parameter. The auxiliary pump delivery rate is set by actuating the electric motor, in the combustion and combined driving mode below a minimum main oil pump input speed and in the electric driving mode to at least the total oil requirement, and at least in the combined driving mode above the minimum main oil pump input speed is set to at least the residual oil requirement exceeding the delivery rate of the main oil pump.
US08187150B2
An ECU executes a program including the steps of: starting monitoring the turbine revolution speed and the output shaft revolution speed when a direct shift is started (YES in S100) (S102); performing complete disengagement control on a disengagement element (1) (S106), lowering control pressure of a disengagement element (2) to preliminarily fixed control pressure (S110); starting engagement control on an engagement element (1) when a set time period Is (1) passes (YES in S112) (S114); performing complete disengagement control on the disengagement element (2) when a set time period Is (2) passes (YES in S118) (S120); and starting the engagement control on an engagement element (2) when turbine revolution speed NT is equal to or larger than (the synchronous revolution speed of a gear after a shift—a set value Ns) (YES in. S 122) (S 124).
US08187149B2
A coasting control system for a vehicle includes a coasting monitoring module and a glide mode activation module. The coasting monitoring module determines whether the vehicle is in a coasting state. The glide mode activation module operates a transmission in a freewheeling state based on a determination that the vehicle is in the coasting state.
US08187146B2
A method of controlling a hybrid drive train of a vehicle which comprises, in series, an internal combustion engine, a clutch, an electric motor and a transmission with an output connected to the drive axle. During traction operation, the vehicle changes from an electric driving mode into a combination driving mode or a combustion engine driving mode, in that the clutch is engaged and the electric torque is temporarily increased. The method includes regulating engagement of the clutch at least until reaching a starting rotational speed of the combustion engine such that the acceleration of the combustion engine occurs according to a predetermined progression of rotational speed and that the torque of the combustion engine is increased by the same amount as the transferable torque of the clutch is increased by the engagement process.
US08187141B2
A carrier assembly for an automatic transmission includes a first plate, a second plate spaced along an axis from the first plate, a third plate spaced axially from the first plate and the second plate by angularly spaced legs, the third plate being formed with angularly spaced recesses. Short pinions, supported on the first plate and the third plate, each has a major diameter sized to move between at least two of the legs along a chordal path into one of the recesses during installation in the carrier. Long pinions, supported on the first plate and the second plate, each has a major diameter sized to move between at least two of the legs along a radial path into one of the recesses during installation in the carrier.
US08187125B2
A training device that will train a player to throw the ball to the correct height and angle for a serve is provided. The device includes a pole that adjusts from about four feet to twelve feet in height to suit a player's need. The pole is supported by a base and includes an toss hoop at the top of the pole. A photo-sensor is provided at the toss hoop to record a valid toss when a ball is tossed upwardly through the hoop within a predetermined height range and descends through the hoop prior to the serve. A basket may be positioned at the base for retrieving the tossed practice balls. The base legs and toss hoop fold away for easy storage and transport.
US08187121B2
This invention is related to multi-layer golf balls having at least one layer containing a neutralized high acid ionomer linked to a grafted metallocene copolymer, where the golf balls exhibit improved performance characteristics and properties.
US08187119B2
An exemplary golf club head having additional discretionary mass may be realized by utilizing light-weight materials, a favorable average vertical distance, and/or articulation points. By using a preferred break length, the additional discretionary mass may be placed low and deep in the club head to improve the location of the center of gravity as well as the inertial properties. In one example, the center of gravity may be positioned to substantially align the sweet spot with the face center of the club head.
US08187108B2
A longitudinal shaft assembly for a motor vehicle, comprising at least a first shaft and a second shaft, a ball-type constant velocity joint for connecting the first shaft to the second shaft and at least one central bearing for supporting the longitudinal shaft assembly with respect to a body of the motor vehicle.
US08187091B2
A gaming machine displays a bet start instructional image on a dealer used display, displays a bet end instructional image in response to a predetermined lapse of time after receiving a bet start instruction signal from a touch panel, and controls an oscillation motor to cause a playing board to oscillate after receiving a bet end instruction signal from the touch panel.
US08187082B2
A game for a gaming machine having a plurality of different items to be selected by a player, each item having a value in an amount preset for a given bonus round, and a respective initial quantity in a preset amount. The player selects an item, such as one of many items for purchase in a store, and the value for that item is registered, along with subtraction of a unit from the quantity of that item. Provided that the quantity for that item selected is not then zero, the player continues to select another item, with registration of the value for that item and subtraction until an item is selected thereby having a zero quantity.
US08187081B2
A gaming system is disclosed which comprises a symbol selector arranged to select a plurality of symbols for display at a corresponding plurality of display positions, an outcome evaluator arranged to determine whether the selected symbols correspond to a winning symbol combination by evaluating symbols disposed in defined win lines, and a prize allocator arranged to allocate a prize to a player when a winning symbol combination exists in a defined win line. At least one display position is of different size to at least one other display position and the defined win lines are dependent on the respective sizes of and locations of the display positions. A corresponding method is also disclosed.
US08187080B2
A gaming system is disclosed which comprises a selector arranged to select a plurality of symbols from a set of symbols for display in a display area at a plurality of display positions, an outcome evaluator arranged to evaluate a game outcome based on the selected symbols and to identify a scatter outcome when a plurality of special symbols are disposed in the display area at any display position, and a prize allocator. The prize allocator is arranged to allocate a prize to a player when a scatter outcome exists and to determine the prize awarded to a player using the plurality of special symbols. A corresponding method is also disclosed.
US08187073B2
A system, apparatus, and method of operating a gaming apparatus may include identifying a player, accessing stored player data relating to the player, and performing a personalized gaming operation based on the stored player data. The personalized gaming operation may include one of the following personalized gaming operations: generating a video image of a game piece, the game piece having one or more characteristics selected according to the stored player data, generating a personalized video image based on the stored player data, or generating a game environment, the game environment including video images other than a video image of a game piece, music and sound effects and one or more of the video images other than a video image of a game piece, music and sound effects selected according to the stored player data.
US08187067B2
An approach that automatically transforms an inventory item of an avatar that is online in a virtual universe without requiring manual changes is described. In one embodiment, there is an avatar locator component configured to locate an avatar that is online in the virtual universe. An inventory item transforming component is configured to automatically transform an inventory item associated with the located avatar that is visual, functional, security or linguistic in nature.
US08187061B2
A method for mass-production butchering of a chuck roll of beef includes: sectioning the beef clod into a first portion and a second portion substantially along a natural seam, the first portion comprising triceps brachii long head muscle and essentially being free of triceps brachii lateral head muscle, and the second portion comprising triceps brachii lateral head muscle and essentially being free of triceps brachii long head muscle; and sectioning the first portion generally with or parallel to the grain into a first set of separate portions. Another method for mass-production butchering of a beef clod may include: sectioning the beef clod into a first portion and a second portion substantially along a natural seam, the first portion comprising the teres major; and sectioning the first portion generally with or parallel to the grain into a first set of separate portions.
US08187058B2
A power-driven hand tool comprises a drive spindle adapted to drive a tool, that can be driven to oscillate about its longitudinal axis, which tool can be fixed on a retaining section of the dive spindle by a securing element, and further comprises a displacing device that serves to displace the securing element between a releasing position in which the securing element can be released from the drive spindle and a clamping position in which the securing element is clamped on the retaining section by a spring element, the securing element comprising a clamping shaft adapted to be inserted into the securing element, which is axially fixed in the drive spindle for clamping the tool in the clamping position, and which can be detached in the releasing position. For clamping of the tool a split chuck is provided which is clamped on the retaining section by the securing element in the clamped position and is connected with the retaining section in form-locking engagement.
US08187054B2
An adjustable breast positioning system for a breast received within a breast cup of a woman's garment comprising a platform situated within a lower region of the breast cup; a shaping member at least partially overlaying the platform wherein the platform and shaping member are open to the top portion of the breast cup; and a connector having one end coupled to the platform and another end connected to an anchor moveably mounted to the garment for adjusting the platform for reducing the available volume for the breast within the breast cup and for concomitantly pushing the shaping member upward and inward for displacing the breast upward, forward, and inward toward the center of the wearer's chest while simultaneously increasing the volume of the breast outside the top portion of the breast cup for providing an improved visual presentation of the breast.
US08187049B2
A remotely controlled transformable toy vehicle that is remotely transformable from a standing position to a flying position, where the toy performs like a helicopter and also to a driving position, where the toy performs like a wheeled vehicle. Transformations are carried out on-the-fly by remote control and the toy vehicle has the ability to maintain proper center of gravity for stable flight, takeoff and landing.
US08187047B1
A child's canvas floatation device for use in an ocean, lake, or pool environment comprising a seat system for the child as well as a tether line for connection to a parent's or care provider's wrist is herein disclosed. The flotation device is toroidal being approximately two (2) to three (3) feet in diameter and provided with an inflation port and a series of grasping handles. The device is also provided with a textile covering over most of the entire tube area. The cover is wrapped back upon itself and covers the interior of the inner tube. The center is then provided with a pair of leg holes in which a child can insert his or her legs and be provided with a seat. As such, the child is not in danger of falling through the inner tube as is the case with conventional inner tubes. Additionally, the device is provided with an attached tether line approximately six (6) feet long that attaches to the parent's or care provider's wrist.
US08187041B2
In a coupling connector formed by stacking two connector housings (10A, 20A) vertically on each other and coupling the two connector housings (10A, 20A) to each other, the two connector housings (10A, 20A) having terminal housing chambers (11, 21) into which terminals (111, 121) are inserted from rear ends thereof insertion recessed portions (16, 25) are provided on upper and lower surfaces of the stacked connector housings, respectively, while shifting positions thereof from each other, and terminal engaging projection portions (15, 26) are provided, which are inserted into the insertion recessed portions of the opposite-side connector housings opposite thereto when the connector housings are stacked on each other, and thereby inhibit rearward detachment of the terminals inserted into the terminal housing chambers of the opposite-side connector housings.
US08187040B2
A contact sub-assembly is provided for an electrical connector. The contact sub-assembly includes a base having a mounting opening, and an array of mating contacts. Each mating contact includes a mating interface. A support block extends a length along a central longitudinal axis. Openings extend through the support block. The openings are spaced apart from one another along the length of the support block. The mating contacts extend through corresponding openings. A mounting post extends outwardly from the support block in a direction that is non-parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the support block. The mounting post is received within the mounting opening of the base.
US08187039B2
A sharable socket structure includes a plastic base and rows of first and second terminals arranged in the base. The base has a common slot for accommodating two connectors with different interfaces. The slot is formed with an inserting port and a tongue is disposed in the slot. Each terminal has a contact, an extension, a fixing portion and a pin. The contacts of the first and second terminals are disposed on the tongue and electrically connected to two connectors, respectively. The contacts of the second terminals are closer to the port than the contacts of the first terminals. A step is formed between X coordinates of the contact and extension of the second terminal in a sequentially arranging direction of the terminals such that the contact of the second terminal partially overlaps with the contact of the first terminal neighboring the second terminal on the X coordinates.
US08187038B2
A card edge connector for electrically connecting harnesses to contact electrodes that are located in different positions on a surface of an electronic substrate in an insertion direction includes a housing, harness terminals, and relay terminals. The housing defines a substrate insertion hole for receiving the electronic substrate. The harness terminals are separately connected to the harnesses and located in different positions in a height direction perpendicular to the insertion direction. The relay terminals separately connect the harness terminals to the contact electrodes upon insertion of the electronic substrate into the substrate insertion hole.
US08187031B2
An electrical connector includes an insulative housing having a mating face, a mounting face, a pair of side walls, a elongated central slot recessed downwardly from the mating face, a first end wall and a second end wall, the central slot being positioned between the side walls, the first end wall and the second end wall, the side walls include a plurality of passageways communicating with the central slot; a plurality of contacts being retained in the passageways respectively and protruding into the central slot; a metal board lock extending downwardly through the first end wall and being attached to the first end wall; a retainer attached to the first end wall to mating with a corresponding card; the board lock is sandwiched between the retainer and the first end wall.
US08187029B2
An electrical connector includes a housing with a number of passageways, a plurality of contacts retained in the passageways, and a spacer assembly assembled to a rear side of the housing. The contacts are arranged in plural rows along an insertion direction of a mating plug. Each contact has a connecting portion extending along an up to down direction. The spacer assembly has at least two spacers stacked with each other along the up to down direction to jointly receive and position the connecting portions.
US08187021B2
A lighting connector which includes (a) an upper housing having plural connector pins, and one or more interlocking grooves; and (b) a lower housing, the lower housing having a plurality of connector pin guide holes, and one or more interlocking tongue portions. The lower housing is connectable with the upper housing to form the lighting connector by coupling at least one of the one or more interlocking grooves with at least one of the one or more interlocking tongue portions, and by coupling at least one of the plural connector pins with at least one of the connector pin guide holes.
US08187010B2
A power supply system for the internal power supply of a supporting mast of a wind power installation is provided in order to assist the work of servicing personnel in the wind power installation. The power supply system includes a power bus line, at least one tap on the power bus line for tapping off an electrical potential, and an electrical appliance connected to the tap. The electrical appliance is both electrically connected and mechanically adapted to the tap. An electrical plug connector is also provided.
US08187005B1
Communicating in an educational environment includes placing a chalkboard in a private mode that allows a user of the chalkboard to view information exclusive of others in the educational environment. Information is displayed on the chalkboard according to the private mode. The chalkboard is placed in a public mode that allows the chalkboard to control a common display, and information is controlled on the common display using the chalkboard. The common display is viewable by others in the educational environment according to the public mode.
US08187001B2
According to one embodiment, an apparatus for removing enamel from a person's tooth includes a blade portion and a handle portion. The blade portion includes an abrasive surface adapted to remove enamel from the tooth in response to reciprocating movement of the abrasive surface against the enamel. The handle portion is coupled to the blade portion and includes first and second regions, the first region is proximal and the second region is distal to the blade portion. The first region includes a substantially solid cross-section with a substantially circular perimeter. The second region includes a substantially solid cross-section with at least a substantially semi-circular perimeter, the solid cross-section defining a notched region. The apparatus is adapted to be inserted via a pressure fit into a corresponding opening in a driver mechanism adapted to drive reciprocating movement of the blade portion and the abrasive surface.
US08186987B2
Provided is a nano-fiber manufacturing apparatus which manufactures nano-fibers by an electrostatic explosion, and has a low possibility of explosion even when a flammable solvent is used. The nano-fiber manufacturing apparatus (101) having an ejection unit (110) which ejects solution (200) that is raw material liquid for nano-fibers (200) to a manufacturing space in which the nano-fibers (200) are manufactured by an electrostatic explosion of the solution (200), and a charging unit which charges the solution (200). The nano-fiber manufacturing apparatus (101) includes a gas supply source (103) which supplies safety gas to change an atmosphere of the manufacturing space, in which the solution (200) is ejected, into a low oxygen atmosphere, and a partition (102) which maintains the manufacturing space at a lower oxygen atmosphere than an atmosphere of an outside space of the partition (102).
US08186985B2
A mold device is described for use in a mold having a plurality of tread molding segments. Each tread molding segment has an end face for mating with an adjoining segment. The mold device includes a piston located on the segment end face and is actuated by the opening and closing of the mold. Each of the mold segments further includes a retractable blade assembly having a first and second chamber; wherein the piston is positioned within the first chamber and having a plunger end in communication with a temperature sensitive block of material and a spring. The first chamber is in fluid communication with a second chamber, wherein said second chamber further comprises a retractable blade mounted within a blade collar wherein the blade collar is slidably received within said second chamber; said second chamber further comprises a temperature sensitive block of material and a spring.
US08186983B2
A compressor includes a compression mechanism for suctioning gas through a suction path to compress the gas and discharging the compressed gas and a check valve for preventing backward-flow of the gas in the suction path. The check valve includes an accommodation hole (its one end is opened toward the suction path and its another end is functioned as a reservoir), a valving element accommodated within the accommodation hole movably, a valve seat provided at the opened end of the accommodation hole for closing the suction path while the valving element is pressed thereonto and an urging component for urging the valving element toward the valve seat. A release groove is grooved on an inner surface of the accommodation hole. The reservoir is communicated with the suction path through the release groove. The compressor can reduce machining cost, component count and weight in respect to the check valve.
US08186968B2
A compressor unit including a compressor is provided. The compressor unit includes a suction line and a discharge line, a control unit which controls the compressor and/or adjacent modules. A method to operate a compressor unit is also provided. To avoid any damage caused by non-gaseous fluid amount at least one detection device is disposed in the suction line to identify non-gaseous fluid amounts in the fluid to be compressed before entering the compressor. The detection device is connected to the control unit in a signal transmitting manner.
US08186963B2
An article of manufacture having a nominal profile substantially in accordance with Cartesian coordinate values of X, Y and Z set forth in TABLE A. X and Y are distances in inches which, when connected by smooth continuing arcs, define airfoil profile sections at each distance Z in inches. The profile sections at the Z distances can be joined smoothly with one another to form a complete inlet guide vane airfoil shape.
US08186962B2
A leading edge part of a fan rotating blade for taking air thereinto is provided with a vertical hub portion positioned on the hub side so as to be substantially perpendicular to a fan rotary shaft, a backward mid-span portion inclined toward the downstream side from the hub side to the mid-span portion, and a forward inclined tip portion inclined toward the upstream side from the mid-span side to the tip portion.
US08186959B2
A shroud of adjacent turbine moving blades has the primary contact face portion, which has opposing flat faces forming an acute angle from a turbine rotating direction and has the secondary contact face portion which has opposing flat faces forming an obtuse angle from the turbine rotating direction. In a process of increasing the rotor speed of a turbine, the secondary contact face portion shifts from a contacting state to a separated state, and thereafter, the primary contact face portion shifts from the separated state to the contacting state. According to such arrangement, vibration in a turbine higher speed range can be suppressed in addition to the suppression of the contact reaction force between coupling members of adjacent turbine moving blade from increasing too high, thereby improving the reliability of the turbine moving blades.
US08186947B2
An exemplary locating mechanism for locating a turbine bearing in a bore of a housing includes a conical pin having a pin axis where the conical pin includes a conical wall portion and a pin portion to locate a turbine bearing; a ball; and a socket disposed in a housing and extending between an opening of the housing and a bore of the housing, the socket having a socket axis where the socket includes a cylindrical surface and a conical surface. According to such a mechanism, disposition of the conical pin in the socket seats the conical pin along the socket axis and against the conical surface and disposition of the ball in the socket seats the ball along the socket axis and against the cylindrical surface. Accordingly, alignment of the ball with respect to the conical pin allows for transmission of force from the ball to the conical pin along the pin axis. Various other exemplary technologies are also disclosed.
US08186943B2
In an exhaust-gas turbine of an exhaust-gas turbo-charger including a turbine wheel which is rotatably supported in a housing and to which exhaust gas can be supplied via an inlet channel and discharged out of the exhaust-gas turbine via an outlet duct, wherein a guide vane structure and an axial slide which interacts with the latter, are disposed in the turbine inlet at the transition from the inlet channel to the turbine wheel, the guide vane structure is fixedly mounted with respect to the housing and the axial slide is arranged at the turbine outlet side and is movably supported on an outlet duct contour sleeve and provided with an axial opening for accommodating the guide vane structure, and the contour sleeve includes openings which conduct exhaust gas from the inlet channel directly to the outlet duct and which are arranged so that they are covered by the axial slide when the axial slide is moved out of its open position, the guide vane structure extending axially over the contour sleeve openings so as to impart a swirl to the exhaust gas being discharged via the contour sleeve openings when the slide member is in an open position.
US08186936B2
A rotor blade for a wind turbine comprises a rotor blade body with a root for connecting the rotor blade to a hub of a wind turbine, a tip, a leading edge and a trailing edge. The blade has a movable part, and motion transmitting means for connecting to an actuator being placed preferably outside the blade body, and transmitting motion from the actuator to the movable part. The motion transmitting means is electrically non-conductive, whereby the risk of lightning stroke accidents is reduced.
US08186932B2
The invention relates to a method of storing storage products in a storage rack, the storage rack comprising several rack units providing a plurality of storage spaces for the storage products. The storage rack comprises a transport shaft, a transport device being traversable on the transport shaft to transport the storage products between a service opening and a storage space. A first rack unit has the service opening and a second rack unit is spaced from the first rack unit by the transport shaft. In the method, a first storage product is transported into a buffer area spaced from the service opening of the first rack unit by the transport device for intermediate storage. A second storage product is supplied to the transport device via the service opening. The second storage product to be stored is transported into the buffer area using the transport device. Furthermore, the first storage product is to be retrieved from the buffer area and is supplied to the service opening using the transport device, and the second storage product to be stored from the buffer area is supplied to a predetermined storage space using the transport device. The invention also relates to a storage rack of this type.
US08186926B2
According to one example of the invention, a drill rod handler includes a movable clamp. A position sensor system for the drill rod handler includes a level sensor that is configured to detect a position of the moveable clamp with respect to gravity. The position sensor system further includes a rotation sensor configured to detect a rotational position of the moveable clamp with respect to a defined axis that runs parallel to gravity. Furthermore, the position sensor system includes a control center that is communicably connected to the level sensor and the rotation sensor.
US08186918B2
The resin anchor comprises an apertured tubular envelope designed to be compressed by a traction element, characterized in that it includes, on the inside of the envelope, a resin component and a hardener component that are intended to be mixed together and to cure under the action of the compression of the envelope (1), in order to fasten the anchor, at least one of the two components being sacheted, the mix formed from the two components being expelled out of the envelope via its apertures, during its compression. The traction element may be a screw that cooperates with the end element of the bushing CD forming a nut. The anchor is fastened both mechanically and chemically, for either solid material or hollow material.
US08186917B2
Some embodiments of a system for partitioning cargo spaces in a temperature-controlled cargo container can include one or more longitudinal panel assemblies with a user-selectable height feature. In such circumstances, a user can readily adjust the overall height of each longitudinal panel assembly while the longitudinal panel assembly is in the trailer so as to accommodate the interior height of the trailer (which might vary from trailer to trailer).
US08186910B2
In one embodiment, the subsea deployment system may be used to install flying leads with integral buoyancy. In another embodiment, the subsea deployment system may be used to install flying leads with separate buoyancy modules. The installation sling assembly may be used with the subsea deployment system or with other systems to deploy flying leads subsea. The universal removable cartridge may be interchanged for use on a horizontal drive unit and a mud mat.
US08186907B1
A system for leveling a slab by raising and filling in voids under the slab. A mixture of compressed air and well dried sand is pumped through hose to a gun nozzle. The slab to be leveled is supplied with at least one hole for receiving the gun nozzle in a fluid tight connection. The compressed air is used to lift the slab while the sand is used to fill the void and keep the slab in a level position. The operator may supply successive burst of pressure to lift the slab as needed, while adjusting the air and sand flow. Finally, the gun nozzle is removed from the hole which is then patched thus, completing the repair of the damaged slab.
US08186906B2
A screed machine is formed with a forwardly positioned screed assembly including a wedge portion and pivoted wing members. The frame is supported on two rollers spaced behind the screed assembly, which is mounted on a mast for vertical movement in conjunction with a laser receiver that provides a signal from a laser level indicating the final desired grade of the stone base. The machine can be turned at a corner by extension of a jack stand to elevate the machine for rotation about the axis defined by the centrally located jack stand so that the screed machine can be redirected into a different direction without disturbing the final grade of the stone base. The screed machine is manually moved along the stone base by an operator pulling on the handle pivotally connected to the frame. A sight line provides a monitor for the lateral orientation of the screed assembly.
US08186904B2
A combination mounting ring of resilient material, for connecting a shaft within a bore of a housing, has a hollow cylindrical part having radially extending projections. This part is for locating between the outer surface of the shaft and the inner surface of the bore, the radially extending projections being under compression and thus securing the shaft within the bore. The combination mounting ring further has an axial spring element extending radially inward from the cylindrical part and having two portions at different axial positions. The axial spring element is for locating between the shaft and a body axially displaced from the shaft, and serves to minimize axial movement of the shaft within the bore of the housing. The axial spring element may either be an annular part or a tab extending from an axial edge of the cylindrical part.
US08186894B2
A lens barrier unit that can further reduce the retraction space of lens barriers is provided. The lens barrier unit includes a barrier case having an opening; and multiple spherical barriers provided so as to pivot about a pivotal axis. The barriers can be shifted between a first state for closing the opening and a second state for opening the opening. In the second state, the barriers are all stored in the lower part of the barrier case.
US08186892B2
Optical subassemblies including integral thermoelectric cooler (TEC) drivers. In one example embodiment, an optical subassembly includes a thermoelectric cooler (TEC) driver, a first substrate to which the TEC driver is structurally mounted, a second substrate, a laser temperature sensor structurally mounted on the second substrate, a TEC thermally coupled to the second substrate, and a thermal resistance mechanism including a thermally insulating material. The laser temperature sensor is structurally coupled directly between a laser and the second substrate with the laser being in direct contact with the laser temperature sensor. The thermal resistance mechanism structurally connects the first substrate to the second substrate and provides thermal resistance between the first substrate upon which the TEC driver is structurally mounted and the combination of the second substrate, the laser and the laser temperature sensor such that heat that is generated by the TEC driver is restricted by the thermal resistant mechanism.
US08186882B2
A method of fabricating a bearing surface for a gas or air bearing is described. The method comprises taking a bulk bearing portion having at least one bearing surface region and providing a coating on the bearing surface region to define at least one gas pocket). The at least one gas pocket has a depth substantially equal to the thickness of the coating. In one example, laser ablation is used to remove part of the coating to form the gas pockets. The coating may be an anodized coating and the bulk bearing portion may be formed from aluminium. An air bearing component formed using the method is also described.
US08186879B2
A panel support device for detachably supporting an X-ray receiving panel includes a support plate configured to be in contact with the surface of the panel opposite to an X-ray receiving surface of the panel while the panel is mounted, a locking member for locking the panel on the support plate while the panel is mounted, and a drive device for driving the locking member so that the locking member is withdrawn from a locking position when the panel approaches the support plate and the locking member returns to the locking position when the panel comes in contact with the support plate in a process for mounting the panel.
US08186873B1
Various techniques are provided for determining thermal resistance values of building materials through the use of infrared cameras. In one example, an infrared camera may be used to capture one or more infrared images of a wall. Using temperatures obtained from the images, a thermal resistance value such as an R-Value associated with the wall may be determined. Potential cost savings associated with adjusting the thermal resistance value may also be determined.
US08186864B2
A light source device includes an excitation light source which generates excitation light, a fluorescent member containing a fluorescent substance which absorbs the excitation light to generate fluorescence, an emitting side optical member which is provided on an emitting end face of the fluorescent member, and a reflector which is provided on the side surface of the fluorescent member. The reflector has an optical property of reflecting the excitation light and the fluorescence. The emitting side optical member has an optical property of reflecting the excitation light and transmitting the fluorescence.
US08186862B2
A first exemplary embodiment of an automotive discharge lamp assembly includes an integrated high intensity discharge lamp and driver assembly having a high voltage starter/igniter and a ballast unit contained in a common housing with a high intensity discharge lamp burner extending therefrom. A separate automotive headlamp optical assembly is mechanically and electrically joined to the integrated high intensity discharge lamp and driver assembly. The joining assembly includes snap-fit clamps received on one of (i) the headlamp assembly and (ii) the integrated lamp and driver assembly, and received in a recess/groove on the other of (i) the headlamp optical assembly and (ii) the integrated lamp and driver assembly. Another exemplary embodiment includes at least one bayonet pin extending outwardly from one of (i) the integrated lamp and driver assembly and (ii) the headlamp optical assembly for operative receipt in a recess or groove formed in the other component.
US08186858B2
An illuminating structure for a hand tool contains a lamp comprised of a light seat, an illuminating set, a cover member, and two magnetic members, wherein the light seat includes a receiving portion disposed on a top surface thereof to receive the illuminating set, and includes a plurality of holes mounted on two sides thereof and communicating with the receiving portion, includes a slot mounted on a bottom surface thereof to receive the magnetic members, and the slot includes two bores fixed on two sides thereof individually and communicating with the receiving portion to connect with the illuminating set; the illuminating set is used to make light; the cover member is covered to the receiving portion; the magnetic member is a magnet made of metal material to conduct electricity and fixed to the slot so as to contact with the electrode conducting piece of the illuminating set.
US08186853B2
A single- or multiple-use cleansing or personal care article comprising (i) a flexible, three-dimensional, water-absorbent substrate material comprising a cavity for accepting an electronic device within a waterproof housing, wherein the water-absorbent substrate is comprised of a web of substantially water-insoluble fibers and (ii) an electronic device within a waterproof housing comprised of one or more of a light-emitting device, a sound-emitting device, or an electromechanical vibrating device or a waterproof metered dispenser and either or both of (iii) a pourable soap impregnated into the water-absorbent material in an amount sufficient to produce foam in water having a di- or trivalent cationic salts present at a concentration of at least about 120 mg/L and/or (iv) a solid anhydrous composition having a melting point of from about 450 C to about 550 C said anhydrous composition comprising a haircare or skincare active ingredient.
US08186846B2
A multipurpose lighting device comprises a module including a first light source for a flashlight function and a second light source for a lantern or omnidirectional glow stick function. A button on the module is operative to selectively alternating between the first and second light sources. An elongate housing is coupled to the second light source so that the second light source illuminates along the length of the housing. Finally, a whistle portion is formed on one end of the elongate housing so that the multipurpose device includes flashlight, glow stick, and whistle functions.
US08186843B2
A booklight for a protective cover for an eReader, wherein the protective cover includes a pocket for supporting the booklight, the booklight including a base, a light housing assembly having a light source, a manipulatable neck coupled between the base and the light housing assembly, and a base tab rotatably coupled to the base, wherein the base tab includes a first end rotatably coupled to the base tab, and a second end extending from the first end, wherein the second end is a free end, and wherein at least a portion of the free end is configured to engage the pocket of the protective cover.
US08186842B2
A backlight module including a back plate, a frame, a light guide plate, and a light bar is provided. The back plate has a carrying portion and at least one holding portion, and the frame is leaned against the holding portion. The light guide plate is disposed on the carrying portion of the back plate, and one side of the light guide plate is accommodated between the holding portion and the carrying portion. The light bar includes a flexible substrate and a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs). The flexible substrate is disposed between the back plate and the light guide plate. The LEDs are disposed on the flexible substrate and located on the carrying portion of the back plate and by the light guide plate. Each of the LEDs has a first canopy which is located between the carrying portion and the light guide plate.
US08186809B2
A liquid discharging head improved in heat dissipation property includes a rectangular recording element substrate having electrothermal transducers generating thermal energy for discharging liquid, first electrodes for supplying electrical signals to the electrothermal transducers, and second electrodes not used for supplying electrical signals to the electrothermal transducers, and a wiring sheet having an opening through which the recording element substrate is exposed, the wiring sheet being provided with a first wiring pattern electrically connected to the first electrodes and a second wiring pattern connected to the second electrodes. A plurality of the first electrodes are formed along a first side of the recording element substrate having a predetermined length and a plurality of the second electrodes are formed along a second side of the recording element substrate, the second side being longer than the first side and extending in a direction transverse to the first side.
US08186806B2
A head unit includes a plurality of nozzle groups. Each group has a plurality of nozzles discharging liquid as liquid droplets. The nozzles are arranged at an approximately equal distance from one another when viewed from a first direction. The nozzle groups are arranged at the distance when viewed from the first direction and in a direction intersecting with the first direction, and adjacent nozzles of the nozzle groups adjacent when viewed from the first direction discharge an approximately equal amount of the liquid droplet.
US08186795B2
A data generating circuit incorporated in an ASIC includes a first jetting mode memory circuit which stores information related to a plurality of first jetting modes, a time-sequence information memory circuit which stores time-sequence information of a jetting mode which associates one of the plurality of first jetting modes, for each jetting timing of the nozzle, a second jetting mode memory circuit which stores information related to a plurality of second jetting modes, which are more than types of the plurality of first jetting modes, and a jetting mode selecting circuit which selects a jetting mode at an arbitrary jetting timing among the plurality of second jetting modes, based on the first jetting modes at the arbitrary jetting timing and at least one of the previous and subsequent jetting timings.
US08186784B2
A continuous inkjet method in which liquid passes through a nozzle, the liquid being jetted comprising one or more dispersed or particulate components and where the particle Peclet number, Pe, defined by Pe = 1.25 ϕ T · d eff 3 μ S kT ρ U 3 x is less than 500 and where the effective particle diameter, deff, is calculated as d eff = ( ∫ 0 ∞ d 3 ϕ ( d ) ⅆ d ∫ 0 ∞ ϕ ( d ) ⅆ d ) 1 / 3 where φ(d) is the volume fraction of the particles or components of diameter d (m) and where φT is the total volume fraction of dispersed or particulate components, μS is the viscosity of the liquid without particles (Pa·s), ρ is the liquid density (kg/m3), U is the jet velocity (m/s), x is the length of the nozzle in the direction of flow (m), k is Boltzmann's constant (J/K) and T is temperature (K). The present invention limits the magnitude of flow induced noise generated by particulate components in the ink to maximize the efficiency of drop formation and to minimize adverse interactions with the nozzle.
US08186775B2
An arm portal for ingress and egress within an enclosed, controlled environment, such as an incubator, employs asymmetric orifices to obtain superior arm mobility. The hand/arm portals along with the pass box can be manufactured into a one-piece injection molded assembly that is easily attached to the front face of an enclosed anaerobic environment.
US08186772B2
A pressure regulating valve unit is configured to regulate the output hydraulic pressure of a hydraulic pressure generating source through electrical control for application to a boosted hydraulic pressure chamber, and a release valve is interposed between the boosted hydraulic pressure chamber and a reservoir which is adapted to the hydraulic pressure in the boosted hydraulic pressure chamber to the reservoir side when the pressure regulating valve unit fails.
US08186771B2
A stroke simulator in a brake system includes a cylinder body, a piston movably inserted in the cylinder body, and a second elastic member adapted to be pressed by the piston. It functions to give a simulative operational feel to a brake lever by operating the brake lever to generate a fluid pressure in a front wheel master cylinder and transmit this fluid pressure to the cylinder body, thereby deforming the second elastic member through the piston, and wherein annular recesses are formed on the outer circumferential surface of the second elastic member.
US08186759B2
A locking device (1), particularly for a vehicle seat, for the detachable locking of two components (5, 8) that can be displaced relative to each other, includes a first locking element (11) that is supported on the first component (5) in a displaceable, particularly a pivoting manner about a first bearing pin (13) and a second locking element (12) that is associated with the second component (8) and that interacts with the first locking element (11) in a locked state of the locking device (1). A first safety element (15), that can be displaced relative to the first locking element (11), secures the locked state of the locking device in the normal case by acting on the first locking element (11). A second safety element (17) is provided that can be displaced relative to the first locking element (11). The safety element supports the first locking element (11) at least in the case of a crash. At least one spring (25) applies a force (K) to at least one of the two safety elements (15, 17), which is supported on a second bearing pin (19) pivotally about the center (Z) thereof, at a point (P) and pretensions the element against the first locking element (11) or against a stop (23). The force (K) travels through the center (Z) in at least an angular position of the safety element (15, 17) acted on by the spring (25).
US08186758B2
An automobile seat is provided that includes, but is not limited to a backrest, a seat portion, a backrest pivoting mechanism, and a two-link seat-portion pivoting mechanism. The seat portion is fastened to the backrest or the backrest pivoting mechanism so that it is pivotable about a first transverse axis and the backrest is fastened to the backrest pivoting mechanism so that it is pivotable about a second transverse axis, so that the backrest may be pivoted from a usage position in which the seat portion adopts a first position, forward about the second transverse axis into a non-usage position, in which the seat portion occupies a second position, in which the seat portion is displaced rearward with respect to the first position. The backrest pivoting mechanism is a four-link backrest pivoting mechanism, which is configured in such a manner that the second transverse axis may be displaced rearward into the non-usage position by pivoting the backrest.
US08186752B2
A vehicle body structure having improved roof support characteristics is provided. The structure includes a roof rail integral to an A-pillar and a support pillar. The structure further includes a cross member. The A-pillar includes an inner surface, an outer surface, and a wall therebetween. The roof rail extends downwardly at a front end of the roof rail and extends downwardly at a rear end of the roof rail. The roof rail is integral to a one piece hollow A-pillar at the front end of the roof rail. The support pillar also includes an inner surface, an outer surface, and a wall therebetween. The support pillar also includes a tubular lower section that extends upwardly from the rocker. The upper section of the support pillar is integral to the rear end of the roof rail.
US08186742B2
A vehicle sliding door structure includes an inner door panel, an outer door panel, a reinforcing bracket and a first bulkhead. The inner door panel has a vertically oriented sash section extending along an outboard facing surface thereof adjacent to a rearward side of an outer peripheral edge thereof. The sash section has a latch mechanism supporting part proximate a mid-region of the rearward side of the outer peripheral edge. The outer door panel is fixed to the outer peripheral edge of the inner door panel. The reinforcing bracket is fixedly attached to the outboard facing surface of the inner door panel along a region of the sash section that extends from below the latch mechanism supporting part to above the latch mechanism supporting part. The first bulkhead is fixedly attached to the reinforcing bracket and extends from the reinforcing bracket toward the outer door panel.
US08186734B2
A door opening and closing device has a rotational mechanism configured to switch a door between a closed position and an open position relative to a base member. The door opening and closing device includes a latch mechanism for latching the door in the closed position on the base member. The latch mechanism includes a latch device attached to the base member, a case disposed above the latch device, a slider slidably situated in the case above the latch device, and a latching member pivotally supported by the case and including a base end slidably connected with the slider and a tip configured to engage a portion of the door. When the door is moved to the closed position, the slider is moved by the door and is engaged with the latch device while the latching member is pivoted to engage the door.
US08186730B2
The invention relates to a latch that comprises a lock and a closing part (10). Said lock comprises a catch (15), a click (20) equipped with an adjusting arm (21) and a motorised opening aid (30). Said catch (15) comprises a receiving element for the closing part (10) and at least one stop notch (17) for engaging the click (20). The opening aid (30) is equipped with an eccentric (40) that is driven by a motor, whereby the eccentric curve interacts with a lateral adjusting surface of the adjusting arm (21) and ensures that the clink (20) is displaced in a motorised manner from its locked position in the stop notch (17) into an elevated position. In order to prevent problems in the latch, an end segment (42) of the eccentric (40) and/or the adjusting arm (21) of the clink (20) is elastic. When in the elevated position, the clink (20) is on a fixed stop (18), performing an elastic deformation (59) when passing the eccentric end segment (42) on the adjusting arm (21) of the clink (20), until an end-sided shoulder of the eccentric (40) catches behind a counter shoulder on the adjusting arm (21). After catching, the eccentric shoulder is supported on the clink counter shoulder and prevents the eccentric (40) from reversing.
US08186720B2
System for connecting a secondary module to a structure having a port. The system includes a tapping connector attachable to the port, and a primary module attachable to the tapping connector, with the secondary module being mountable on the primary module. A collar is receivable over the tapping connector for supporting the primary module on the structure. The collar is attachable to the tapping connector with the primary module being attachable to the collar. A positioner is supported within the collar for fastening the collar to the tapping connector.
US08186712B1
An apparatus is provided for releasably blocking a flow of pressurized fluid through a housing. The apparatus includes a seal member having a rupturable portion, and a support structure configured for supporting the seal member along the rupturable portion so as to substantially prevent outward bulging of the rupturable portion.
US08186702B2
The present invention is directed to apparatus, systems, and methods for distributing the weight of a trailer to a towing vehicle and controlling the sway of that trailer relative to the towing vehicle. An embodiment of the present invention includes a spring arm coupled to the towing vehicle and an attachment mechanism for selectively placing the spring arm in mechanical communication with the trailer. The attachment mechanism includes a bracket assembly reversibly attachable to the trailer; a shoe bracket reversibly attachable to the bracket assembly; and a friction pad coupled to the shoe bracket.
US08186696B2
A steel tie rod end includes a shaft portion and first and second fitting portions. A minimum area portion having a small radially cross-sectional area is provided for the shaft portion, and 90% or above of a steel structure of the minimum area portion is formed of martensite or tempered martensite. The surface hardness of the minimum area portion and the average hardness of the radial cross section of the minimum area portion are 600 Hv or below, and the average hardness of the radial cross section of the first fitting portion and the average hardness of the radial cross section of the second fitting portion are 300 Hv or below. A method of manufacturing a steel tie rod end includes a quenching process of heating only a prospective shaft portion by high frequency to an austenitizing temperature and then rapidly cooling the prospective shaft portion by water or cooling medium.
US08186686B2
A seal for a vehicle having a transmission output shaft and a transmission output shaft housing is provided. The seal comprises a contact member at least partially surrounding and contacting the transmission output shaft, a support member coupled to the contact member, the support member at least partially surrounding the transmission output shaft and extending along the transmission output shaft, the support member coupled to the transmission output shaft housing, and an electrically-conductive surface overlying at least a portion of the contact member and at least a portion of the support member, the electrically-conductive surface contacting the transmission output shaft and the transmission output shaft housing.
US08186684B2
A form for constructing a thrower's circle includes a pair of half sections. Each half section has an upper surface and a base surface and two full length members and two half length members. The full length members and the half length members are connected together substantially at right angles to form a rectangle with four corners. A corner brace is located in each of the four corners. An inside cross member and an outside cross member extend between the half length members and are generally parallel to the full length members. A pair of semi-circles, each having substantially the same diameter that is larger than the length of the half length members and less than the length of the full length members. Means are provided for securing the half sections together so that the semi-circles form a full circle. Tubes extend from the circle toward the base to drain water from with in the circle.
US08186680B2
A strategy dice game that incorporates a game platform that includes four color-coded pegs inserted into holes formed on the platform with an equal same number of twenty matching color discs placed thereon. The game also includes at least one numbered die and three colored die. Each numbered die includes twelve sides with two sides assigned to dots one thru four. Each colored disc also includes twelve sides. The first colored die has six faces with one dot that matches the color of one stack of disc and six faces with one dot that matches the color of another stack of discs. A second colored die has twelve faces divided so that four faces have three different colored dots. The third colored die has twelve faces divided so that three faces have four different colored dots. During play, each player takes turns simultaneously tossing the numbered die and one colored die. The player having the option of removing discs for from their assigned stack of discs or blocking other players from removing discs. The first player to remove all of their discs is declared the winner.
US08186671B2
A sheet cassette includes a cassette main body, an intermediate plate, a pressure spring, and a first rear end restriction member provided slidably along a sheet feeding direction and restricting a rear end of a sheet. The sheet cassette also includes a second rear end restriction member provided slidably in the first rear end restriction member along the sheet feeding direction and restricting the rear end of the sheet. The first rear end restriction member includes a first height restriction portion restricting a height of a sheet of a predetermined size loaded in the cassette main body to a first height. The second rear end restriction member includes a second height restriction portion restricting a height of a sheet of a size smaller than the predetermined size loaded in the cassette main body to a second height smaller than the first height.
US08186668B2
An aeration device adapted to aerate one or more sheets of a stack of sheets includes a side blower configured to selectively provide an air stream at an outlet thereof along an airstream direction so as to impinge against at least a portion of the stack. A height detecting device is configured to detect a height of an uppermost sheet of the stack. A side blower adjustment device is configured to adjust a height of the side blower and/or an angle of the airstream direction so as to track, by the air stream, the uppermost sheet of the stack based on an input from the height detecting device.
US08186660B2
An exemplary lens holding apparatus includes a pipe, a number of hollow lens holding units, and an air pump. The pipe has an airtight end and an air vent end. The lens holding units each are in communicate with the pipe and each include a number of first portions and a number of second portions. The first and second portions are alternately arranged and each have an inner space for communicating each other. The second portions each have a top wall and a bottom wall. The top wall has a first through hole defined therein and in communicate with the inner space of the second portion. The air pump is connected to the air vent end and configured for pumping air from the pipe, such that lenses received in the first through holes are releasably held in position.
US08186649B2
A pipe coupling capable of being safely connected and disconnected. The pipe coupling has a tubular housing (16), a first locking member (18), a pressing member (24), a valve member (30), and a second locking member (50) provided between the valve member (30) and the pressing member (24). When the housing is communicated with a fluid source with the pressing member (24) placed in a standby position (FIGS. 1 to 4), the second locking member is displaced by the valve member, which is displaced toward an open position by fluid pressure. In this process, the second locking member engages with the pressing member (24) before the valve member reaches the open position (FIG. 2), thereby preventing the valve member from reaching the open position and, at the same time, preventing the pressing member from being displaced to a pressing position. When the housing is communicated with the fluid source with the pressing member (24) placed in the pressing position (FIG. 4), the second locking member does not engage with the pressing member and allows the valve member to be displaced to the open position.
US08186646B2
Valve trim retention apparatus for use with valves are described. An example valve trim retention apparatus includes a liner to retain a valve seat within a valve body. The liner includes an outer surface having first external threads to engage a first threaded opening of the valve body. A ring retainer engages the liner and has second external threads to engage a second threaded opening of the valve body. The first and second threaded openings cause the liner and the ring retainer to move in opposite directions when the liner and the ring retainer are rotated in same direction.
US08186643B2
An apparatus for attaching a device to a circular structure is disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a clamp body attached to the outer surface of the circular structure using a strap, which can be attached to the clamp body using a spring that maintains an attachment force to prevent movement of the clamp body over a wide range of temperatures and temperature cycling of the circular structure and the strap. In one embodiment, the device can be installed in the clamp body and coupled to the outer surface of the circular structure using one or more spring washers that maintain an attachment force between the device and the outer surface of the circular structure to prevent detachment of the device from the outer surface of the circular structure over a wide range of temperatures and temperature cycling of the circular structure.
US08186635B2
A support for mounting so as to project from the front face of a panel having an array of holes therethrough. The support includes a support body having a distal end spaced from the panel when the support is mounted thereon, with a pair of legs extending from the proximal end of the support body. The legs each have an ear spaced from the support body proximal end to define a shoulder facing the rear face of the panel when the support is mounted thereon. Support flanges on the support body proximal end define mounting surfaces facing the shoulders defined on the leg ears, and a biasing flange on the support body proximal end includes a flexible portion projecting beyond the support flange mounting surfaces toward the shoulders defined on the leg ears.
US08186633B2
Couplers for a cable trough system including a spacing defined by first and second guiding surfaces, the spacing being sized to receive the terminal end of a trough member into the spacing. One or more springs are carried on the couplers and may be at least partially disposed within the spacing between the first and the second guiding surfaces. The springs urge the terminal end of the trough member against the coupler upon insertion of the terminal end into the spacing. One or more locking elements are coupled adjacent to the springs to move between a locking position and a released position. The locking elements may slide longitudinally or move perpendicularly to the couplers. A first trough member may be released from the couplers independent from a second trough member coupled to the couplers. Methods for use of the couplers are also provided.
US08186627B2
In order to control an attitude of a movable object having a flexible member (50) through an attitude maneuver, first, based on vibration of the flexible member at the time of the attitude maneuver, for example, a sampling function including no frequency components equal to or higher than a particular frequency is obtained. With the use of the sampling function, a control target value is created as a previously-frequency-shaping-type feedforward control law. Based on the control target value, attitude control data is created. The attitude control data can be used for the attitude maneuver with respect to the movable object.
US08186620B2
A landing gear system includes a shock strut assembly and a linkage member coupled to an aircraft. Preferably, the shock strut assembly and linkage member are oriented or angled relative to one another in a non-parallel relationship. Actuation of the linkage member moves the shock strut from a de-hiked to a hiked configuration or vice-versa. In addition, the orientation of the linkage member relative to the shock strut assembly permits it to automatically move the shock strut assembly to the de-hiked position during retraction of the landing gear system and prevents the shock strut assembly from exceeding a desired length during retraction. The linkage member may take the form of a hydraulic actuator having a lower end portion coupled to an inner cylinder of the shock strut assembly and an upper end portion coupled to the aircraft aft of where the shock strut assembly is coupled to the aircraft.
US08186609B2
The present invention relates to a fuel injector for injecting fuel into a combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine, having a valve piston that is displaceably guided in an injector body in terms of lifting motions, whereby the lifting motion of the valve piston can be controlled by a control valve. The control valve has a valve needle with a guide bore, so that the needle is displaceably guided in the direction of a lifting axis in terms of lifting motions. A guide section integrally formed on an end of a valve piece extends into the guide bore for the displaceable guidance of the valve needle in terms of lifting motions. Along the lifting axis a vertical bore extends through the valve piece into the guide section, such that fuel is able to flow through the bore from a control chamber into an annular chamber introduced between the guide bore and the guide section for controlling the lifting motion of the valve piston. The fuel volume conducted through the vertical bore furthermore flows through at least one outlet restrictor, which is disposed in the region of the transition from the vertical bore into the annular chamber.
US08186604B2
An apparatus includes a movable temperature sensing member capable of sensing mainly the temperature of high-temperature coolant flowing in from a high-temperature coolant port and driving toward the side of the high-temperature coolant port in dependence upon the sensed temperature; a main valve fitted integrally to the movable temperature sensing member and constructed so as to render a low-temperature coolant port and a mixing compartment openable in conformity to the driving of the movable temperature sensing member toward the side of the high-temperature coolant port, thereby controlling the inflow rate of low-temperature coolant from the low-temperature coolant port to the mixing compartment; and a high-temperature coolant inducing part communicating with the high-temperature coolant port and adapted to regulate the flow of high-temperature coolant from the high-temperature coolant port toward the surround of the movable temperature sensing member and effect outflow thereof to the mixing compartment.
US08186600B2
A chip card receives and processes what-ever combination of contact data and contact-less data is available to allow multiple functionalities for the chip card. A micro-computer of the chip card is adapted to simultaneously receive and process contact data from a contact interface and contact-less data from a contact-less interface. In addition, the chip card includes a power voltage selector for selecting a contact bias to supply power to the micro-computer when-ever the contact bias voltage is available since the contact bias voltage is more stable than a contact-less bias voltage.
US08186597B1
An indicia reading system including: a hand held indicia reader for reading information bearing indicia; a cradle having a first magnetic attachment device disposed in the cradle arm for removably holding the indicia reader; a second attachment device disposed on the indicia reader to removably attach the indicia reader to the first magnetic attachment device.
US08186588B2
A weapon launch system includes at least a command and control system, a launcher system and at least one weapon system. The command and control system generates command signals received by the launcher system. The launcher system comprises a launcher operating system that maintains a mapping server connected to a hard drive and a network layer. The mapping server partitions the hard drive into any number of virtual drives accessible by the network layer and each virtual drive maintains operational data for a specific weapon system. The weapon system is coupled to the launcher system and comprises a weapon and a weapon operating system that maintains a mapping client which mounts a designated virtual drive and obtains operational data therefrom and transfers the operational data to the weapon.
US08186586B2
A system of changing the PIN associated with a smart card is described. A user can initiate the PIN change using a personal unwired smart card reader, rather than using a system, such as an ATM machine. The smart card reader, loaded with the smart card provides a cryptogram code, which can contain the user's requested new PIN or it can be provided to the issuer via alternative methods. Via various methods the cryptogram code is delivered to the card issuer's PIN change management system, including the user transposing the code from smart card reader screen to the card issuer's web site or audio DTMF transmission from the smart card reader speaker to the card issuer IVR system. Returned from the issuer, via a similar path, will be a command code that when processed by the smart card reader will result in a PIN change on the smart card.
US08186581B2
A device for assisting a user to perform a transaction on a machine is described. The device receives data that specifies a transaction mode to use for processing an image and accesses a knowledge base to provide data to configure the device for the transaction mode, the data including data specific to the transaction mode. The device receives an image or images of a portion of a machine that the user will use to perform the transaction and processes the image or images to identify a pattern of controls on the machine and to detect the presence of a user-controlled pointing item over controls on the machine. The device announces to the user the name or function of the control closest to an end of the user-controlled pointing item.
US08186580B2
A smartcard-enabled BPID Security Device integrates a smartcard reader with a biometric authentication component to provide secured access to electronic systems. The device allows for an individual to insert a smartcard into an aperture in the physical enclosure of the BPID Security Device, allowing the smartcard and the BPID Security Device to electronically communicate with each other. The smartcard-enabled BPID Security Device is based on a custom application specific integrated circuit that incorporates smartcard terminals, such that the BPID Security Device can communicate directly with an inserted smartcard. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the smartcard-enabled BPID Security Device is based on a commercial off-the-shelf microprocessor, and may communicate with a commercial off-the-shelf microprocessor smartcard receiver using a serial, USB, or other type of communication protocol. The device allows for enrolling a user's credentials onto the smartcard-enabled BPID Security Device. The device also allows for authenticating an individual using the smartcard-enabled BPID Security Device.
US08186578B1
An automated banking machine transaction request is authorized based on a determined location of an authorized user relative to the machine. Identification of an authorized machine user is linked to a remotely locatable item (e.g., a cell phone) of the authorized user. A banking machine receiving the user identification causes the location of the cell phone to be determined. A comparison is then made of the cell phone location and the banking machine location. If the locations correspond, then the current machine user is recognized as the authorized user and machine transactions are permitted. If the locations do not correspond, then the current user is denied transactions at the banking machine. The security arrangement helps prevent an unauthorized person from using a fraudulent card to access a financial account.
US08186574B2
An image-forming system includes: a data-reading unit, an image-forming unit, and a restricting unit. The data-reading unit reads first additional data from a first storing member of a sheet member. The image-forming unit forms a first image based on the read first additional data by the data-reading unit. The restricting unit gives a restriction to the first additional data stored in the first storing member after the first additional data is read, in order to restrict the first image from being formed based on the first additional data stored in the first storing member subsequently.
US08186562B1
A main body of an apparatus for delivering shielding gas during wire bonding of an electronic device has a through-hole in the main body which is sized for allowing a capillary tip of a bonding tool to be insertable through the main body when performing wire bonding. At least one gas outlet located on a bottom surface of the main body adjacent to the through-hole is operative to direct an inert gas in a direction towards the electronic device. At least one gas inlet in the main body is operative to supply the inert gas to the through-hole and to the gas outlet.
US08186560B2
A surgical staple having at least one projection formed thereon. In various embodiments, the projection is formed on a crown of the surgical staple. In one various embodiment, the projection surrounds, or is positioned adjacent to, at least one deformable member of the surgical staple. In one embodiment, the projection can apply an increased compressive force or pressure to soft tissue surrounding the deformable member prior to the deformable members puncturing a hole in the soft tissue. As a result of the increased compressive force or pressure on the tissue, after staple deployment, blood flow proximate deformable member puncture holes can be reduced.
US08186553B2
A fastener driving tool providing a prolonged durability and stabilized fastener driving operation. The tool includes a housing 2, a motor 31 disposed in the housing 2, a plunger 63 disposed in the housing and driven by the motor 31 for driving a nail 1A, a cable member 52 connected to the plunger 63 for pulling the plunger 63 from its bottom dead center where the nail is driven into a workpiece to a top dead center, and a drum 51 driven by the motor for winding the cable member thereover. A cable member is wound over the drum by a length greater than a linear distance between the bottom dead center and the top dead center. The cable member is flexed or deflected due to own weight when the plunger is at the bottom dead center.
US08186549B2
Dual-strap carrying assemblies and devices including such assemblies are provided herein. The carrying devices may be embodied in dual carrying strap golf bags that allow the bearer to more easily don and remove the bag. The secondary strap of the dual strap assembly is connected to the primary strap by a movable engagement assembly, such as an assembly that rotates to allow the secondary strap to more easily become within the reach of the bearer of the bag. In some embodiments, the movable engagement assembly may include a movement limiting device that prevents the secondary strap from moving too far out of the bearer's reach. The strap assemblies may be used in combination with a flexible base stand to make a self-standing carrying device that is easy to don and doff.
US08186544B2
A dispensing device may include a main body including a wall having a dispensing mouth defined in the wall; a storage portion, wherein the storage portion is retained by the main body; and a conveyance path providing communication between the storage portion and the dispensing mouth. In addition, the dispensing device may include a conveyor disposed in the conveyance path; a drive motor mechanically coupled to the conveyor; and a sensor, wherein the sensor is directly or indirectly electrically coupled to the drive motor and the sensor is in optical communication with the environment proximate to the dispensing mouth.
US08186530B2
A tray is disclosed herein, for supporting food and/or drink upon the lap of a user. The underside of the tray has a bowed stand, which is contoured to fit between the thighs of a seated user. The bowed stand provides optimal support, and is especially advantageous for use in a moving vehicle, to prevent sliding of the tray and spillage.
US08186511B2
An apparatus for preparing a pharmaceutical for transient application includes a tray having a sealed compartment, a vial of an ophthalmic formulation of mitomycin-C, a diluent carrier containing sterilized water, and a syringe that are all contained together in a single package. The component parts of the apparatus are used together to reconstitute the contents of the vial with the water in the diluent carrier, and then draw the reconstituted drug into the sealed compartment of the tray by a suction force produced by the syringe. In the tray compartment, the reconstituted drug is absorbed in an absorbent pad. The tray is opened to remove the pad and the absorbed drug from the tray compartment for use of the pad in transient application of the drug.
US08186510B1
A screwdriver kit includes a recessed base comprising a divider wall for dividing an internal space into first and second compartments, the divider wall including an opening; a spring biased cover hingedly secured to the base and having a latch; two spring biased receiving structures in the first compartment, each receiving structure comprising screwdriver head receiving slots; a spring biased pivotal structure in the second compartment and comprising a top slope and a lock pin inserting through the opening into the first compartment to be locked by the latch; and a spring biased push button on the pivotal structure and comprising a bottom protrusion engaged with the slope. In response to pressing the push button the projection slides downward along the slope to pivot the pivotal structure and disengage the lock pin from the latch, thereby unlocking the cover and upward pivoting the receiving structures.
US08186503B1
An adjustable curved fence assembly for a conveyor includes a curved guide fence and a number of pneumatic cylinders attached to the curved guide fence. The cylinder piston rods move between extended and retracted positions to change the radius of curvature of the curved guide fence.
US08186494B2
A viscous fan drive with a front-mounted fan and electrical actuation without a tethered harness. The mechanical package includes an inverted viscous clutch, a drive pulley, a split electromagnetic actuator with the electrical portion mounted to a stationary mounting member. Enhanced cooling can be provided with breather openings in the pulley, breather slots in the body member, and fins in the reservoir.
US08186478B1
The present embodiment represents a dynamic Multi-Functional Dual Filtered Hearing Protector that will allow the wearer to hear intelligible speech or warning sounds, while the wearer is present in an environment surrounded by loud noise or impact sounds. The automatic attenuation provided by this hearing protector will increase, as the sound pressure levels increase, thus requiring no human intervention. This hearing protector is especially useful in situations where sounds may be produced from unexpected spikes in sound intensity, while still enabling the wearer to hear warning buzzers, or approaching vehicles without compromising safety. By not requiring human adjustment the wearer will be protected from such sounds. In addition to being able to be connected to acoustic transducers, the invention also relates to a custom hearing protector incorporating features of the embodiment, and a method for manufacturing such a custom hearing protector.
US08186475B2
A suspended operator platform for use with a ride-on lawnmower or the like is connected to a rigid chassis of the ride-on lawnmower by a suspension system that has a parallelogram linkage. The operator platform supports an entire body of the operator and isolation mounts connect a seat assembly to the operator platform. Steering controls of the ride-on lawnmower are connected to the operator platform so that the steering controls move with the operator platform and are suspended and/or isolated from the chassis. The suspension system includes a course-stiffness adjuster and a fine-stiffness adjuster that adjust the suspension stiffness to correspond to a particular operator and/or terrain.
US08186467B2
A wheel rotating device (1) for an in-wheel motor vehicle includes a motor (2), a speed reducer (6) coupled to an output part of the motor (2), a hub (4) coupled to an output part of the speed reducer (6), and a spindle (5) fixed relative to a vehicle body and supporting the hub (4) in a manner that permits the hub (4) to rotate. The hub (4) is coupled to a wheel (13) to rotate the wheel (13). A stator (21) of the motor (2) is disposed inwardly in radial directions of the wheel (13) along an inner circumferential surface of the wheel (13). A rotor (22) of the motor (2) is disposed inwardly in radial directions of the stator (21). The speed reducer (6) is disposed between the rotor (22) and the hub (4) with bearings provided between the speed reducer (6) and the hub (4).
