US08867125B2
An apparatus includes a multi-core optical fiber and first, second, and third optical couplers. The multi-core optical fiber is rare-earth doped to provide optical amplification in response to optical pumping thereof. The first optical coupler is configured to end-couple a first multi-mode optical fiber to an end of the multi-core optical fiber. The second optical coupler is configured to end-couple a second multi-mode optical fiber to an end of the multi-core optical fiber. The third optical coupler is configured to optically couple a pump light source to the multi-core optical fiber.
US08867115B2
Light emitting elements in an illumination unit of a display may be blanked during updates of pixels of a spatial light modulator (SLM). Updates of pixels in different segments of the SLM may be coordinated with blanking of corresponding segments of the illumination unit. Updating of segments of a light source (30A-30D) may be coordinated so that not all segments are updated in each frame (34A-37D) of a video.
US08867113B2
A laser processing device includes a laser light source, a spatial light modulator, a control section, and a condensing optical system. The spatial light modulator, presents a hologram for modulating the phase of the laser light in each of a plurality of two-dimensionally arrayed pixels, and outputs the phase-modulated laser light. The control section causes a part of the phase-modulated laser light (incident light) to be condensed at a condensing position in a processing region as a laser light (contribution light) having a constant energy not less than a predetermined threshold X. The control section causes a laser light (unnecessary light) other than the contribution light condensed to the condensing position existing in the processing region to be dispersed and condensed at a condensing position existing in a non-processing region as a plurality of laser lights (non-contribution lights) having an energy less than the predetermined threshold.
US08867112B2
In an image reading device, a scanning unit moves relative to the main unit between a base position and a moved position. A conveyance unit moves relative to the scanning unit between a base position and a moved position at which the cover closes the platen, and is formed with a first and second openings. The cover member moves between a base position at which the cover member covers a second opening and a moved position. The first and second detectors detect a state of the scanning unit, the conveyance unit, and the cover member. The conveyance unit conveys the document along one of a first and second conveying paths that is used to convey the document and is determined based on the state of the first and second detectors.
US08867111B2
A document reader is provided that includes a document table at least part of which is configured to swing around a first axis, between a first position to function as the document table and a second position to be more slanted with respect to a first guide than when in the first position, a swing portion configured to form a part of a feeding surface forming a second guide and configured to swing around a second axis, between a third position to function as the second guide and a fourth position to expose a part of a feeding path that is formed by the second guide to the outside of the document reader, and a switching mechanism for swinging the swing portion from the third position to the fourth position with the swing motion of the at least part of the document table.
US08867109B2
Provided is a light guide, in which: at least one of a reflecting part or a light exit part has a light condensing action in a direction intersecting a predetermined direction; the at least one of the reflecting part or the light exit part includes diffusing parts arranged in the predetermined direction; the diffusing parts include: a first curved surface having a first degree of diffusion in the predetermined direction for a sparse region of light sources; and a second curved surface having a second degree of diffusion, which is lower than the first degree of diffusion, in the predetermined direction for a dense region of the light sources; and each of the first curved surface and the second curved surface has a shape corresponding to a part of a cylinder extending in a direction orthogonal to the predetermined direction in which the light sources are arrayed.
US08867105B2
An original reading apparatus including: a light source configured to illuminate an original; a line image sensor configured to convert light reflected from the original into an analog output signal; an AD converter configured to convert the analog output signal output from the line image sensor into a digital output signal; a control device configured to control the line image sensor and the AD converter; and a variable gain amplifier provided inside the line image sensor, for adjusting a signal range of the analog output signal.
US08867100B2
An image may be quantized into a pattern of dots, e.g., for devices capable of printing dots of variable size and variable color intensity. One may use a pre-determined mapping of the continuous-tone intensity value into a discrete vector of intensity values, and each intensity value may then be processed by a set of binary quantizers. The resulting binary vector may then be mapped into a combination of available dot sizes and color intensities. Through a scalar multiplier, the pre-determined mapping of continuous-tone intensity values may be used at multiple print resolutions.
US08867098B2
When executed by a controller of recording apparatus, the instructions causes the recording apparatus to perform: calculating at least one of a first recording ratio and a second recording ratio based on an image data of an image recorded on a recording medium; controlling a depositing device of recording apparatus to perform a concealment process when at least one condition is satisfied, the at least one condition including a condition that the at least one of the first recording ratio and the second recording ratio is smaller than a threshold value; and controlling the depositing device not to perform the concealment process when the at least one of the first recording ratio and the second recording ratio is greater than or equal to the threshold value.
US08867097B2
An image processing apparatus includes a forming unit configured to form, on a sheet, a pattern from which at least two lines each connecting two points located at positions parallel to a conveyance direction of the sheet are detectable, a detection unit configured to detect, from the pattern formed by the forming unit, at least two lengths of lines each connecting two points located at positions parallel to the conveyance direction, and an acquisition unit configured to acquire a correction value used when correction is performed so that there is no difference between the lengths of a plurality of lines detected by the detection unit. The forming unit forms an image obtained by correcting a corrected image to be output using the correction value acquired by the acquisition unit.
US08867087B2
A printing apparatus in which data representing a watermark is stored, printing system, and a printing control method that permits the watermark to be printed on a receipt superimposed with print data received from a host apparatus including a watermark printing avoidance control unit for avoiding printing the watermark on the print area of the receipt identified for printing specific print data contained in the received print data from the host apparatus.
US08867086B2
There is provided a mechanism of preferentially using a memory layer which suffers a small influence of heat of an SOC die, based on the positional relationship between the SOC die and the memory layer, and decreasing the refresh frequency of the DRAM and a leakage current. To accomplish this, an information processing apparatus allocates, in order to execute an accepted job, a memory area for executing the job preferentially from a memory physically farthest from the SOC die among a plurality of memories, and then executes the job.
US08867084B2
A system comprises: a processing unit which performs layout processing on data of a job; a holding unit which holds, in a storage unit, identification information of an image forming apparatus, identification information of the job and content of the layout processing performed on the data of the job by the processing unit in association with each other; a unit which transmits the data that has undergone the layout processing to the image forming apparatus and obtains history information of the processed job; and a tally unit which performs tally processing with respect to the processed job, by using the history information and the content of the layout processing held in the storage unit in association with the identification information of the image forming apparatus corresponding to the history information and identification information of the job in the history information.
US08867078B2
Disclosed is an operation device which receives an input of an address twice in a row from a user, and determines the input of the address when a second address is identical to a first address, and the operation device includes a pseudo-address generator 402, a pseudo-address display unit 404, and an address determining unit 405. The pseudo-address generator 402 generates a pseudo-address obtained by converting a portion of characters included in the first address to predetermined characters when the first address is input. The pseudo-address display unit 404 displays a key of the first address and a key of the pseudo-address to be pressed by the user. The address determining unit 405 sets a predetermined address of a pressed key to a second address when the key of the predetermined address is pressed, and determines whether the second address is identical to the first address.
US08867075B2
A print data processing apparatus performs detection as to whether or not an identical resource is duplicated and described within print data. In a case where there is duplicated description, the duplicated resource is deleted from its second occurrence onward and the print objects are consolidated, the duplicated resources are deconstructed into individual resources and registered in a format that can be referenced in common from multiple print objects.
US08867074B2
A confirmation time at which confirmation processing for confirming whether firmware applicable to an image forming apparatus is managed by a delivery server and an application time at which the firmware is applied to the image forming apparatus are set in advance by an operation unit of the image forming apparatus, and an update control unit performs the confirmation processing at an actual confirmation time which is acquired by shifting the confirmation time, and if firmware applicable to the image forming apparatus is managed by the delivery server, the firmware is downloaded from the delivery server, and the firmware is stored in a storage device, and the update control unit applies the stored firmware to the image forming apparatus at the application time.
US08867072B2
An information processing apparatus connected to a print apparatus via a network, comprises: receiving unit configured to receive a plurality of jobs; determination unit configured to determine a priority level of each of the plurality of jobs in an order in which jobs are sent to the print apparatus, based on information of a post-processing step which corresponds to each of the plurality of jobs and is performed after the plurality of jobs are printed by the print apparatus; and sending unit configured to send the plurality of jobs to the print apparatus in accordance with the priority levels in which jobs are sent, which are determined by the determination unit.
US08867067B2
A controlling device may be configured to perform a wireless setting process for connecting a target wireless printer to a wireless network according to an automatic wireless setting mode, acquire unique identification information of the target wireless printer from the target wireless printer by performing a communication without usage of an IP layer when the wireless setting process is performed, acquire one or more unique identification information of one or more printers from the one or more printers by performing a communication with usage of the IP layer after an IP address has been set to the target wireless printer, determine a specific printer among the one or more printers as the target wireless printer, generate a print port, which is different from a WSD port, for the specific printer determined as the target wireless printer, and install a printer driver for the specific printer.
US08867065B2
Disclosed are methods and apparatus for operating a page parallel RIP printing system including a plurality of image marking engines (IMEs). According to an exemplary method, a print job is split into a plurality of job chunks, each job chunk grouped by its destination IME; and the job chunks are processed into a printer ready format by a plurality of RIP nodes associated with the job chunk group's respective destination IME.
US08867057B2
This invention relates to a printing system configured to output printing media having undergone print processing by a print apparatus to a plurality of destinations including a specific destination which has a structure allowing an operator to take out the printing media. In the system, output of printing media to the specific destination is restricted while the operator takes out the printing medium outputted to the specific destination, and in case that the number of printing media necessary for a job processed by the print apparatus is smaller than a predetermined number, the system is controlled not to output to the specific destination a printed material formed from printing media smaller in number than the predetermined number. This invention can achieve efficient printing by controlling not to stop the print operation of the system as much as possible.
US08867053B2
A method is provided for appropriately controlling, if paper information of a paper to be used in printing is not registered, registration of the paper information and the printing process. An image forming apparatus which stores in a storage area, attribute information of a recording medium used in printing analyzes, before printing, print data, determines before printing the print data whether attribute information matching the acquired attribute information is stored in the storage area, and registers in the storage area the acquired attribute information which is not stored in the storage area.
US08867051B2
An image forming apparatus that stores print data transmits identification information for identifying itself to another image forming apparatus that includes a notification image forming apparatus is storing print data. When printing print data, the image forming apparatus requests a list of image forming apparatuses in which print data is stored from the another image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus requests a list of print data from image forming apparatuses corresponding to the received.
US08867048B2
A method and system include a computerized device operatively connected to a multi-function printing device. The multi-function printing device has a scanner, a media path, a printer, etc. The scanner scans a plurality of sheets of media to produce scanned images. The computerized device automatically stores the scanned images, and the media path automatically feeds the sheets of media from the scanner to the printer after the scanner scans the sheets of media. The printer automatically prints unique identification markings on the sheets of media after the scanner scans the sheets of media, such that each of the sheets of media has a different identification marking printed thereon by the printer. The computerized device automatically adds data representing each unique identification marking to each corresponding scanned image stored within the computerized device. When error images (e.g., ones of the sheets of media that were not scanned properly by the scanner) are identified, the computerized device automatically outputs the data representing each the unique identification marking for each of the error images, allowing a user to locate the sheet of media associated with the error image, to permit the improperly scanned sheets to be rescanned.
US08867041B2
An optical metrology apparatus for measuring nanoimprint structures using Vacuum Ultra-Violet (VUV) light is described. Focusing optics focus light onto the sample and collect the light reflected from the sample so as to record an optical response from nanoimprint structures on the sample, wherein the nanoimprint structures have an orientation that varies over a surface of the sample. A sample stage is configured to support the sample. At least one computer is connected to the metrology instrument and the sample stage and is configured to run a computer program which causes the sample stage to rotate the sample so as to present multiple different locations on the sample to the optical metrology instrument such that the orientation of the nanoimprint structures at the multiple different locations remains fixed with respect to a plane of the focusing optics of the metrology instrument in order to eliminate polarization effects.
US08867033B2
A spectroscopic system including a light source adapted to provide a beam of illumination; an optical system adapted to provide the beam of illumination to a sample and receive a spectroscopy signal from the sample and direct the spectroscopy signal to at least one single channel detector is provided. The optical system comprises an adjustable dispersing element for directing one or more spectral features of the spectroscopy signal to the at least one single channel detector. A calibration detector is adapted to determine a set point of the adjustable dispersing element; and a source synchronization component is adapted to synchronize an operation of the light source and the at least one single channel detector. A method of calibrating a dispersing element of a spectrometer is also provided.
US08867032B2
A substrate is described that is suitable for surface enhanced optical detection. The substrate comprises an electrically conductive layer The substrate further comprises at least one nanoparticle comprising an electrically conductive portion. The electrically conductive portion may provide an opening to an underlying material. Such at least one nanoparticles may be a nanoring, a nanodisc, or a non-spherical nanoshell. The substrate further comprises a dielectric spacer for spacing the electrically conductive layer from the at least one nanoparticles. The dielectric spacer is a dielectric material substantially only present under the at least one nanoparticle, leaving the electrically conductive layer uncovered from dielectric material at positions away from the nanoparticles. The at least one nanoparticle and the dielectric spacer are interfaced along a first major surface and the at least one nanoparticle comprises an upstanding surface not in line with an upstanding surface of the dielectric spacer.
US08867031B2
An anesthetic vaporizer system is disclosed herein. The anesthetic vaporizer system may include a sump adapted to retain an anesthetic agent. The anesthetic vaporizer system may also include a level sensor disposed at least partially within the sump. The level sensor is configured to generate an optical beam, and to estimate the amount of anesthetic agent within the sump based on a measured characteristic of the optical beam.
US08867030B2
A horizontal adjustment-engagement member (33) of an object detection device (D) drives the horizontal rotation component (32) to adjust a horizontal angle of a detection unit (11, 12), and a vertical adjustment-engagement member (37) drives the vertical rotation component (36) to adjust a vertical angle of a detection unit. Both adjustment-engagement members (33 and 37) are positioned adjacent to each other at fixed positions such that portions thereof are exposed on a front surface of the device (D), are removably engaged with an external automatic angle adjustment unit (70) from front surfaces, and are automatically adjusted by a driving force of the automatic angle adjustment unit (70) based on a signal level of a detection signal outputted by level output section (7).
US08867020B2
Methods are disclosed for measuring target structures formed by a lithographic process on a substrate. A grating or other structure within the target is smaller than an illumination spot and field of view of a measurement optical system. The position of an image of the component structure varies between measurements, and a first type of correction is applied to reduce the influence on the measured intensities, caused by differences in the optical path to and from different positions. A plurality of structures may be imaged simultaneously within the field of view of the optical system, and each corrected for its respective position. The measurements may comprise first and second images of the same target under different modes of illumination and/or imaging, for example in a dark field metrology application. A second type of correction may be applied to reduce the influence of asymmetry between the first and second modes of illumination or imaging, for example to permit a more accurate overly measurement in a semiconductor device manufacturing process.
US08867011B2
A liquid crystal display device includes a TFT substrate having a display region which has first and second electrodes, a plurality of TFTs and a plurality of scanning signal lines connected to the plurality of TFTs, a counter substrate, a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between the TFT and counter substrates, and sealed by a sealant, a plurality of scanning line leads connected to the plurality of scanning signal lines formed in a region outside of the display region, and a shield electrode formed on the TFT substrate covering the plurality of scanning line leads. The second electrode is connected to one of the plurality of TFTs, and liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer are driven by an electric field, which is generated between the first and second electrodes. The shield electrode is electrically connected to the first electrode and overlapped with the sealant in plan view.
US08867003B2
A liquid crystal display device including a first substrate including a pixel electrode, a second substrate facing the first substrate and including a common electrode, and a liquid crystal layer interposed between the first substrate and the second substrate. The first substrate includes a storage capacitive line. The liquid crystal display device further includes a domain forming member that is formed over a first region corresponding to the storage capacitive line and a second region adjacent to the first region. The domain forming member is formed with irregular parts including a first irregular part having an enlarged width, a second irregular part having a reduced width, and an external irregular part, which is closest to the first region of the irregular parts formed in the second region and has an enlarged width.
US08867001B2
A patterned retardation film including a base substrate, a patterned resin layer and a liquid crystal layer is provided. The patterned resin layer having plurality of first areas and a plurality of second areas is disposed on the base substrate. The combination of the first and second areas is a grating-like stripe structure. The patterned resin layer includes an aligning micron structure. The aligning micron structure includes a plurality of first sub micron grooves and a plurality of second sub micron grooves respectively located in the first areas and the second areas. The liquid crystal layer is disposed on the patterned resin layer and aligned with the aligning micron structure. The liquid crystal layer disposed above the first areas provides a first phase retardation. The liquid crystal layer disposed above the second areas provides a second phase retardation.
US08866994B2
A backlight device includes a frame with a first opening having a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side, a planar light source which is disposed in the first opening of the frame, a plurality of optical sheet groups which are disposed on the planar light source and include a first optical sheet group and a second optical sheet group, and an adhesive layer which has a second opening formed along the first, second, third, and fourth sides of the frame. The first optical sheet group is fixed to the frame via the adhesive layer at the second, third, and fourth sides of the frame, and the second optical sheet group is fixed to the frame at the first side of the frame and is not fixed to the frame at the second, the third, and fourth sides of the frame.
US08866991B2
A tiled display device includes a plurality of display devices defining an image display part, the image display part divided into a central portion and an outer edge portion, a support frame tiling the plurality of display devices side by side, and a plurality of light guides, each light guide disposed on each of the display devices, wherein the brightness of an image displayed at the outer edge portion is higher than that of an image disposed at the central portion.
US08866985B2
A flat display panel and a related repairing method are provided. The flat display panel includes multiple horizontal repair lines parallel to scan lines and multiple vertical repair lines parallel to data lines. The vertical repair lines are disposed on one side of the data lines one to one, and the horizontal repair lines are disposed on one side of the scan lines one to one. When one of the data lines or one of the scan lines is broken, an electrical route formed by a use of the vertical repair lines or the horizontal repair lines detours the broken scan line or data line, so as to deliver signal to pixel electrode normally.
US08866979B2
The present disclosure discloses a display device comprises: a parallax barrier comprising a light transmission region and a light blocking region; a backlight unit; and a transflective film disposed between the parallax barrier and the backlight unit.
US08866978B2
A display device includes a display element and a touch panel including a first electrode plate and a second electrode plate. The first electrode plate includes a first conductive layer and two first electrodes electrically connected to the first conductive layer. The second electrode plate includes a second conductive layer and two second electrodes electrically connected to the second conductive layer. The display element includes a plurality of pixels arranged in rows and columns along a first direction and a second direction. At least one of the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer includes a plurality of carbon nanotubes arranged primarily along the same aligned direction. The aligned direction and the second direction define an angle ranging from above 0° to less than or equal to 90°.
US08866973B1
A method for zooming a picture on a display without a touchscreen is disclosed. The method includes the steps of: a) displaying a picture and a zoom key on a screen; b) defining a rectangular coordinate system in the picture with an origin at a center of the picture; c) defining the zoom key as a point P (x, y) in the perpendicular coordinate system; d) drawing a line through the point P and a reflection point Q at (−x, −y); e) defining points Q1 and Q2 on the line beside the point Q, wherein a distance d between the points Q and Q1 is the same as that between the points Q and Q2, and double the distance d is defined as a simulated operating distance; and; and f) creating a zoom event object corresponding to the simulated operating distance.
US08866961B2
The invention relates to an image pickup apparatus including a pixel section in which plural pixels are arrayed two-dimensionally, an exposure amount control section that determines an exposure amount and controls the pixel section to be continuously exposed plural times, a memory section that can store a pixel signal from the pixel section for plural frames of an output image, a vertical scanning circuit that reads out the pixel signal of the pixel section and stores the pixel signal in the memory section, and a column processing section that reads out the pixel signal stored in the memory section. The vertical scanning circuit sequentially reads out respective pixel signals related to the plural times of exposures and stores the pixel signals in the memory section.
US08866950B2
An imaging device includes: an imaging area in which a plurality of pixels used to acquire an image are provided; a spectrum area in which a plurality of pixels used to acquire a color spectrum are provided; and a filter that is formed above the pixels provided in the spectrum area and allows an electromagnetic wave with a desired wavelength to pass, wherein the filter is formed of a plasmon resonator that is a conductive metal structure having an unevenness structure at a predetermined pitch, and the imaging area and the spectrum area are provided on a single chip.
US08866935B2
Provided is a drive unit which, if an amount of driving to rotate the imaging optical system during the preset mode is smaller than a threshold value in accordance with an imaging field angle of the imaging optical system, the control unit is further configured to control the driving to rotate at a speed in accordance with a change rate per unit time of imaging field angle and the imaging field angle by the zooming of the imaging optical system and, if the amount of driving to rotate the imaging optical system during the preset mode is greater than the threshold value, the control unit is further configured to control the driving to rotate at a speed irrespective of a change rate per unit time of the imaging field angle and the imaging field angle by the zooming of the imaging optical system.
US08866927B2
A first plurality of images of a scene may be captured. Each image of the first plurality of images may be captured with a different total exposure time (TET). Based at least on the first plurality of images, a TET sequence may be determined for capturing images of the scene. A second plurality of images of the scene may be captured. Images in the second plurality of images may be captured using the TET sequence. Based at least on the second plurality of images, an output image of the scene may be constructed.
US08866920B2
Systems and methods for implementing array cameras configured to perform super-resolution processing to generate higher resolution super-resolved images using a plurality of captured images and lens stack arrays that can be utilized in array cameras are disclosed. An imaging device in accordance with one embodiment of the invention includes at least one imager array, and each imager in the array comprises a plurality of light sensing elements and a lens stack including at least one lens surface, where the lens stack is configured to form an image on the light sensing elements, control circuitry configured to capture images formed on the light sensing elements of each of the imagers, and a super-resolution processing module configured to generate at least one higher resolution super-resolved image using a plurality of the captured images.
US08866910B1
Object images captured by a wide-angle camera are distorted due to the optical effects of the wide-angle lens. The disclosed innovations allow an automatic analysis on the corrected image distinguishing normal movement from an unusual event movement. The analysis is based on Markov Modeling on moving object trajectories and motion angles.
US08866895B2
A television (TV) includes a display and a processor controlling the display and receiving signals representing human gestures. The processor is programmed to respond to gestures from a first viewer to control the display. Also, the processor is programmed to respond to gestures from a second viewer to control the display only responsive to a determination that the first viewer has both looked toward the second viewer, and that the first viewer has confirmed, as a separate act from looking toward the second viewer, a desire to transfer control of the TV to the second viewer.
US08866891B2
An automatic method of non-destructive inspection of a mechanical part by comparing images of the surface of the part with reference images recorded in a database, by a digital image acquisition device including an image sensor, a lighting source, and a mechanism for moving the image sensor and the lighting source relative to the mechanical part.
US08866884B2
An image processing apparatus includes an image input unit that inputs a two-dimensional image signal, a depth information output unit that inputs or generates depth information of image areas constituting the two-dimensional image signal, an image conversion unit that receives the image signal and the depth information from the image input unit and the depth information output unit, and generates and outputs a left eye image and a right eye image for realizing binocular stereoscopic vision, and an image output unit that outputs the left and right eye images. The image conversion unit extracts a spatial feature value of the input image signal, and performs an image conversion process including an emphasis process applying the feature value and the depth information with respect to the input image signal, thereby generating at least one of the left eye image and the right eye image.
US08866881B2
In the case where a parallax of left and right images is not appropriate, an influence on the health caused by stereoscopic viewing is preliminarily prevented. A camera and a television are connected (step S1) and a television size is input from the camera (step S2). A parallax adjustment amount v is created based on the input television size (step S3) and the left and right image data and the parallax adjustment amount v are transmitted to the television (step S4). When the television receives those (step S101), the parallax of the left and right images is adjusted by the parallax adjustment amount v (step S102). A region including the subject having the largest parallax among subjects in the left and right images is clipped and displayed in a small screen with the size of the display unit of the camera (step S103). The user checks the image displayed in the small screen (step S5) and when there is no problem, the left and right images are displayed on all over the television size in a 3D mode (step S104).
US08866877B2
Embodiments of the invention are directed to systems, methods and computer program products for split-screen functionality to be provided to a user device during a hold period prior to a customer-service video conference. Specifically, according to defined embodiments, the present invention provides for a first portion of split-screen includes a visual depiction of a queue of users currently awaiting a video conference with the customer-service associate. The queue allows for the user/customer to gauge how long the hold period will last. In addition to the visual depiction of the hold queue, the split screen may provide for other portions of the screen to include other information and/or functionality such as, such as information related or unrelated to the impending video conference.
US08866876B2
A method comprising rendering a video display signal comprising combining local illumination video objects from different sources into each frame of a plurality of frames, wherein the local illumination video objects are video objects on which chromatic adaptation was performed using an illumination reference common to all video objects. An apparatus comprising a processor configured to render a video display signal comprising combining local illumination video objects from different sources into each frame of a plurality of frames, wherein the local illumination video objects are video objects on which chromatic adaptation was performed using an illumination reference common to all video objects.
US08866875B2
Embodiments of the present invention disclose a method and an apparatus for controlling a conference place environment in video communication, in which, the method for controlling a video communication conference place environment includes: generating illumination feedback information indicating an illumination effect of a video communication conference place, in which the illumination feedback information comprises: a parameter indicating an illumination flaw or a parameter indicating correction of the illumination flaw; and outputting the illumination feedback information, so that a lighting controlling device in the video communication conference place controls lighting in the video communication conference place according to the illumination feedback information. By use of technical solutions provided by the embodiments of the present invention, a conference place environment in video communication is able to be remotely controlled.
US08866857B2
The present invention relates to device and method for adjusting white balance in a laser display system, which enables to adjust white balance taking an optical characteristic of a laser beam into account. The device for adjusting white balance in a laser display system, having red, green, and blue laser beam sources, includes a temperature sensing unit for sensing the present temperatures of the laser beam sources, a detecting unit for measuring laser beam output intensity of the laser beam sources, a storing unit for storing reference values on allowable current ranges at different temperatures and laser beam output intensity at different temperatures, an adjusting value generating unit for comparing a measured value of the laser beam output intensity obtained from the detecting unit to the reference values obtained from the storing unit, to generate an adjusting value, a laser beam source driving unit for adjusting the laser beam output intensity of a relevant laser beam source according to a current value within the allowable current range or the adjusting value generated thus, and a control unit for searching the storing unit for the allowable current range corresponding to the present temperature sensed thus, or the reference value corresponding to the laser beam output intensity measured thus to control the adjusting value generating unit and the laser beam source driving unit.
US08866853B2
An apparatus includes a processor that executes a process including detecting a position of an object with respect to a screen of a display, determining whether a distance from the object to the screen is between a first value and a second value smaller than the first value on a basis of the position, displaying a first image on the screen when the distance is determined to be between the first value and the second value, the first image being an enlarged image of an area corresponding to the position, determining whether the distance is equal to or less than the second value on a basis of the position and displaying a second image when the distance is determined to be equal to or less than the second value, the second image being displayed on the screen when the distance decreases to be the second value.
US08866852B2
Methods and devices for applying at least one manipulative action to a selected content object are disclosed. In one aspect, a head-mounted-device (HMD) system includes at least one processor and data storage with user-interface logic executable by the at least one processor to apply at least one manipulative action to a displayed content object based on received data that indicates a first direction in which the HMD is tilted and an extent to which the HMD is tilted in the first direction. The at least one manipulative action is applied to a degree corresponding to the indicated extent to which the HMD is tilted in the first direction.
US08866849B1
A method of controlling a portable device according to one embodiment of the present specification includes the steps of pairing with a head mounted display (HMD), detecting a first position of the paired HMD when an incoming call is received, configuring marker information corresponding to the incoming call according to the detected first position of the paired HMD, and transmitting an augmented reality image corresponding to the marker information to the paired HMD.
US08866844B2
In an image processing apparatus, a process display unit displays on the display a plurality of candidate image processes to be performed on the image data. The plurality of candidate image processes includes a sepia image process. A process receiving unit receives an instruction indicating the sepia image process selected from among the plurality of candidate image processes. A process storing unit stores the selected sepia image process. An image display unit displays a display image corresponding to the image data on the display. An image designating unit designates a display image. The image display unit displays a processed display image that represents a result of the selected sepia image process performed on the image data corresponding to the designated display image before performing the selected sepia image process on the image data corresponding to the designated display image.
US08866836B2
A data communication apparatus based on digital image processing includes a display that displays a color block array including color blocks corresponding to transmission data. The data communication apparatus also includes a camera that captures an image of a color block array displayed on a display of a transmitting side, and a storage that stores a code table including information about colors mapped to data values. The data communication apparatus further includes a Digital Signal Processor (DSP) that creates a color block array by converting transmission data to color blocks according to the code table during data transmission, identifies the color block array in the image captured by the camera, detects colors of color blocks in the color block array, and extracts data values corresponding to the detected colors during data reception.
US08866830B2
In one embodiment of the invention, a memory integrated circuit is provided including an address decoder to selectively access memory cells within a memory array; a mode register with bit storage circuits to store an enable bit and at least one sub-channel select bit; and control logic. The control logic is coupled to a plurality of address signal lines, the address decoder, and the mode register. In response to the enable bit and the at least one sub-channel select bit, the control logic selects one or more of the address signal lines to capture independent address information to support independent sub-channel memory accesses into the memory array. The control logic couples the independent address information into the address decoder.
US08866825B2
An apparatus includes a plurality of image processing circuits. Each image processing circuit generates an image frame corresponding to a single large surface. The first image processing circuit provides a portion of the generated image frame for a first display or plurality of displays and provides a remaining portion of the image frame to the remaining image processing circuits. The next image processing circuits provides the remaining portion of the image frame for the next plurality of displays.
US08866824B2
An image processing method includes: calculating a first index value through back matching between a first image and a second image in relation to a first pixel which is one or a plurality of pixels of the first image and a second pixel which is one or a plurality of pixels located at a position corresponding to the first pixel in the second image; calculating a second index value by normalizing a correlation index value indicating correlation between the first pixel and the second pixel using a complexity index value indicating complexity of an image which is displayed by the first pixel; and calculating a third index value by multiplying the first index value by the second index value.
US08866816B2
In a data visualization system, a method of arranging, in n dimensions, data points representing n or more variables, the method including the steps of: a data point ranking module ranking a set of data points with respect to a first axis of a visual representation using a first variable; and based on a second variable, a data point distribution module distributing the set of data points along the first axis while retaining information relating to the ranking of data points determined in step i).
US08866815B2
Systems and methods in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention provide for representing a plurality of source data values as graphical elements in a default treemap visualization, where each data value is associated with a plurality of data dimensions. A first data dimension is selected to be mapped to an area cell characteristic based on the first data dimension having a quality of numeric and a quality of non-negative. A second data dimension is selected to be mapped to a color cell characteristic based on the second data dimension having a quality of numeric and a quality of previously unmapped. The default treemap visualization is generated based on the selected first data dimension and the selected second data dimension.
US08866800B2
A stacked display (20b) comprises superposed regions for changing between a reflective color state (R, G, B) and a transparent state, which regions form part of a˜bended substrate (20). The substrate (20) may comprise a sequence of portions (1-6) which forms regions having pre-defined color. Each portion (1-6) is electrically connected to a further portion in the sequence by interconnect regions (b′, c′, d′) which form an oversized loop between the regions (1-2, 3-4, 5-6) when the substrate (20) is bent. The regions (1-2, 3-4, 5-6) are filled with a suitable optoelectronic color material (R, G, B).
US08866798B2
A stylus assembly for a capacitive touch screen provides input via conventional handwriting action. A stylus is attached at a contact end to a disc providing ample capacitive proximity with the touch screen. A layer of capacitive material is embedded within the disc, and may be formed with a distinct shape, layout, or outline to provide a uniquely recognizable capacitive signature. The stylus terminates at the contact end in a received portion, attached to the disc by a receiving portion formed thereon. Free rotation of the received portion within the receiving portion accepts positioning of the stylus body at any angle with no degradation of capacitive proximity, allowing natural handwriting action. The receiving portion can be formed with sufficient flexibility to allow disengagement and re-engagement thereof, enabling simple and low-cost replacement of the disc.
US08866794B2
For a capacitive touch device having a capacitive touch sensor to be sensed to generate sensed values, a sensing apparatus and method statistically analyze the sensed values generated in a certain time period to evaluate the sensing quality thereof, discard the poor reliable sensed values, and re-sense the capacitive touch sensor to generate new sensed values, by which the resultant output signal will have improved reliability.
US08866791B2
Improved approaches to provide user interaction with a portable electronic device operating to in a particular mode, such as an e-reader mode, are disclosed. In one embodiment, the portable electronic device is a multi-function portable electronic device that can be configured differently based on a particular mode being used. Based on the mode of operation or application being used, the user inputs to the device can be characterized differently. Advantageously, with mode-based configurations, the portable electronic device can operate to make use of user interface controls in an efficient manner. The mode-based configuration can save power, increase efficiency, and/or speed up operation of the device.
US08866787B2
This relates to displays for which the use of dual function capacitive elements does not result in any decreases of the aperture of the display. Thus, touch sensitive displays that have aperture ratios that are no worse than similar non-touch sensing displays can be manufactured. More specifically, this relates to placing touch sensing opaque elements so as to ensure that they are substantially overlapped by display related opaque elements, thus ensuring that the addition of the touch sensing elements does not substantially reduce the aperture ratio. The touch sensing display elements can be, for example, common lines that connect various capacitive elements that are configured to operate collectively as an element of the touch sensing system.
US08866782B2
An electrostatic-capacitance touch panel includes of X electrodes which are formed above a front surface of the electrostatic-capacitance touch panel, Y electrodes which intersect with the X electrodes, a back-surface electrode which is formed above a back surface of the electrostatic-capacitance touch panel, X-electrode signal lines which supply signals to the X electrodes from both ends of each X electrode, Y-electrode signal lines which supply signals to the Y electrodes from both ends of each Y electrode, a flexible printed circuit board connected to the X-electrode signal lines and the Y-electrode signal lines at a connection portion, intersecting portions where the X electrodes and the Y electrodes overlap with each other, and electrode portions each of which is formed between two intersecting portions. A back-surface-connection-use terminal is formed outside of the connection portion, and the back-surface-connection-use terminal and the back-surface electrode are connected to each other using a conductive member.
US08866774B2
Tactile feedback for touch screens is provided by an overlay structure disposed on the top surface of the touch screen. This overlay structure can be in either of two states. In the first state (non-typing), the overlay structure has a uniform top surface. In the second state (typing), the overlay structure top surface has localized regions of increased vertical elevation to provide tactile feedback for typing. The overlay structure is configured to be switched between these two states by actuator(s) disposed to provide mechanical force(s) in lateral direction(s) to the overlay structure. Preferably, the actuator is a latching actuator (e.g., magnetic solenoid) that does not consume power to hold the overlay structure in either of its states. Thus, power is only consumed to switch the state of the overlay structure.
US08866765B2
A manufacturing method of light emitting units is shown below. First step is providing a substrate with multi circuit areas. A light emitting diode is mounted on the circuit area respectively. Next step is forming a package structure to cover the light emitting diode. Next step is dicing the package structure to form a biconic package structure. The package structure is diced twice in two directions, respectively. As above-mentioned, the light emitting unit has asymmetric light radiation pattern.
US08866760B2
A secure identification system is proposed in which a user gets access through an identification device or badge or tag (51) worn on his/her body, which applies the techniques of body coupled communication (BCC) to create a kind of aura around the user. An identification (ID) is communicated to a user interface of the secure identification system through BCC communication, and the user is authenticated by the system through an authentication procedure checking the identity of the user on the basis of an assumed secure BCC communication of the ID.
US08866759B2
The display device with a touch panel according to the present invention has high reliability and is a display device with a touch panel having a display panel and a touch panel placed on the front surface of the display panel, wherein the display panel has a first substrate and a second substrate provided so as to be layered on the first substrate, the first substrate has a non-overlapping region that does not overlap the second substrate, and the touch panel is a liquid crystal display device with a touch panel secured on the second substrate, the touch panel has an overlapping region that overlaps the non-overlapping region of the first substrate, and a spacer is secured to the touch panel between the non-overlapping region of the first substrate and the overlapping region of the touch panel.
US08866754B2
An information processing apparatus includes: touch operation sections provided to be spaced from each other by a specified distance and detect a position touched by an operating part; a drag detection section to detect a drag moved in a state where the operating part touches the touch operation sections; a vibration detection section to detect a vibration amount of the touch operation sections; a vibration acquisition section to acquire the vibration amount in a period after the drag detection section detects that an arbitrary touch operation section is dragged among the touch operation sections and before the drag detection section detects that another touch operation section adjacent to the arbitrary touch operation section is dragged; and a drag determination section to determine, based on the vibration amount, whether the drag on the arbitrary touch operation section is continuous with the drag on the another touch operation section.
US08866746B2
A handheld electronic device includes a reduced QWERTY keyboard and is enabled with disambiguation software and prediction software. During editing of an object, the object can be ambiguous, and the system provides one or more disambiguated interpretations of the ambiguous object. In some circumstances, the system can additionally provide one or more completions, i.e., predictions of future characters. However, in other circumstances the outputting of completions of an ambiguous object can be suppressed in order to avoid distracting the user and to provide more meaningful results to the user.
US08866744B2
A keyboard having a touch input device includes a keyboard body and a touch input device. The touch input device is disposed on the keyboard body and is used in a digital input mode. The touch input device has a touch pad and a pattern layer. The pattern layer is bonded to a surface of the touch pad, and has a plurality of key indication areas. Each key indication area is corresponding to a key used in the digital input mode, for being recognized and selected by a user. In addition, through a switching module disposed on the keyboard, the digital input mode can be switched to a cursor control mode, a gesture control mode, or a handwriting input mode, thereby achieving a wide range of applications.
US08866743B2
A wireless handheld communication device features a rotational navigation tool assembly such as a trackball or a thumbwheel. The rotational navigation tool assembly provides a user with tactile feedback corresponding to motion of a selection or position indicator on the device display. The tactile feedback is electromagnetically induced and may, for example, be considered an electromagnetic detent.
US08866736B2
A gaze detection apparatus is disclosed. The gaze detection apparatus includes: a gaze detection section that detects gaze of a target person; a display section that includes a display screen for displaying an image; a gaze position determination section that determines, based on a result of detection by the gaze detection section, whether or not the display screen lies in the gaze of the target person; and a first display control section that displays a first detection result image at an intersection point between the gaze of the target person and the display screen when the first gaze position determination section determines that the display screen lies in the gaze of the target person.
US08866734B2
The present invention relates to a motion input device for portable terminal and an operation method using the same. A motion input device of a portable terminal of the present invention includes a sensor unit configured to collect a sensor signal from at least one sensor; an operation recognition unit configured to generate a motion signal corresponding to an operation of portable terminal based on the sensor signal; a scenario preparation unit configured to generate an input scenario based on at least one motion signal; and a scenario mapping unit configured to detect, in a scenario database, a standards scenario corresponding to the input scenario, and to generate an input signal corresponding to the standards scenario.
US08866732B2
A display panel includes a first substrate, a second substrate, an electrophoretic layer, and a shielding electrode. The first substrate includes a first base substrate and pixel electrodes disposed on the first base substrate. The second substrate includes a second base substrate and a common electrode disposed on the second base substrate to face the pixel electrodes. The electrophoretic layer is disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate to display a gray-scale image. The shielding electrode is disposed between the pixel electrodes and faces the common electrode with the electrophoretic layer interposed between the shielding electrode and the common electrode to receive a voltage corresponding to a black gray-scale.
US08866729B2
A method of driving a light source unit of a liquid crystal display panel according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes the steps of calculating average and maximum values of image signals applied to the liquid crystal panel; calculating a representative value of the image signals using the average and maximum values; determining the luminance of the light source unit according to the representative value and driving the light source unit accordingly. The representative value may be calculated from Lrep=(1−β)×Lavg+β×Lmax, where Lrep is a representative value, Lavg is an average value, Lmax is the maximum value, and β is a value that decreases as a difference between the maximum and average image signal values increases, and has a range between 0 and 1.
US08866728B2
The liquid crystal panel displays a video in a display area by modulating light from the backlight including a plurality of light sources. The luminance value calculator calculates light source luminance values of the light sources based on an input video signal including signal values of pixels. The luminance distribution calculator calculates luminance distribution of light in illumination areas obtained by tentatively dividing the display area if the light sources emit light according to the light source luminance values. The representative value calculator calculates, based on the input video signal, a representative luminance value in each of divided areas obtained by dividing the display area. The signal corrector corrects the input video signal based on the luminance distribution according to a difference between a maximum value of the representative luminance values and an average value of the representative luminance values.
US08866725B2
An object is to provide a liquid crystal display device in which image display can be recognized even in an environment where light is dim around the liquid crystal display device. Another object is to provide a liquid crystal display device capable of image display in both modes of a reflective mode in which external light is used as a light source and a transmissive mode in which a backlight is used. One pixel is provided with a pixel electrode having both of a region where light incident through a liquid crystal layer is reflected and a region having a light-transmitting property, so that image display can be performed in both modes of a reflective mode in which external light is used as a light source and a transmissive mode in which a backlight is used.
US08866723B2
A display device according to an embodiment comprises: a display panel; a data driver that supplies a data signal to the display panel; a gate driver that supplies a gate signal to the display panel; and a timing driver that controls the data driver and the gate driver and comprises a voltage controlled oscillator of which frequency is varied according to a control signal generated in the timing driver.
US08866702B1
Methods and systems for use of an optical display system as an indicator of a wearable computing device are provided. In one example, a method includes receiving, by the wearable computing device, information for display by an optical display system coupled to the wearable computing device. The method includes in response, making a determination of whether the wearable computing device is in use. The method also includes based on the determination, causing a light source coupled to the wearable computing device to modulate an illumination of the optical display system.
US08866700B2
A first cabinet comprising a first display module and a second cabinet comprising a second display module are provided. A switching is allowed between: a first state in which the first cabinet is placed on top of the second display module and the first display module faces outside, and a second state in which the first cabinet and the second cabinet are arranged next to each other and the first display module and the second display module face outside. A first screen to be displayed by the first display module and a second screen to be displayed by the second display module are stored and a screen switching operation is detected. Displaying of the first screen on the first display module is canceled and the second screen is displayed on the first display module, when the screen switching operation is detected in the first state.
US08866696B2
An antenna assembly includes an antenna housing, an antenna located within the housing, a radio frequency (RF) module located within the housing and connected to the antenna, and a cable assembly operably associated with the module. The module includes a radio frequency device, such as a transmitter, receiver or transceiver, electrically connected to the antenna. The cable assembly includes electrical wires for providing external power to the module and conducting processed signals between the module and external circuitry. The proximal nature of the antenna and RF module reduces or eliminates induced power losses between the antenna and module, resulting in a very effective power transfer ratio. Resulting processed signals between external and internal processing circuitry can be conducted over relatively long lengths without appreciable signal loss.
US08866690B2
This invention provides an antenna structure, especially relates to an antenna structure in hand-held device. The antenna structure of the present invention is formed by a continue transmission line, and forming an annular shape. It is featured that the antenna structure has two end points, the first end point is a floating point, and the second end point connected to a ground. A signal input point is connected to the continue transmission line for inputting an antenna signal into the antenna structure. The signal input point keeps two-thirds of wavelength distance from the second end point. According to present invention, a small antenna structure is provided and fitting in with operation in ultra wide bandwidth frequency, furthermore the multi-frequency signal can be transceived. The antenna structure has lower signal intensity of high order harmonic signals, therefore the structure can reduce the antenna signal interferences with the high order harmonic signals.
US08866687B2
A modular feed network is provided with a segment base provided with a feed aperture, a corner cavity at each corner and a tap cavity at a mid-section of each of two opposite sides. A segment top is provided with a plurality of output ports. The segment top is dimensioned to seat upon the segment base to form a segment pair. the segment base provided with a plurality of waveguides between cavities of the segment base. The modular feed network is configurable via a range of feed, bypass and/or power divider taps seated in the apertures and/or cavities to form a waveguide network of varied numbers of output ports by routing across one or more of the segment tops. For example, the modular feed network may comprise 1, 4 or 16 of the segment bases retained side to side.
US08866685B2
Disclosed herein are various exemplary embodiments of omnidirectional multi-band antennas. In an exemplary embodiment, an antenna includes upper and lower portions. The upper portion includes one or more radiating elements, one or more tapering features for impedance matching, and one or more slots configured to enable multi-band operation of the antenna. The lower portion includes one or more radiating elements and one or more slots.
US08866683B2
A communication device includes a ground element, an antenna element, and a reconfigurable circuit element group. The antenna element includes a first radiating portion and a second radiating portion. One end of the first radiating portion is a feeding end of the antenna element, and the other end is an open end. One end of the second radiating portion is coupled to the ground element, and the other end is an open end. The second radiating portion is longer than the first radiating portion. The second radiating portion surrounds the open end of the first radiating portion, and includes a first portion and a second portion. The reconfigurable circuit element group is coupled between the first portion and the second portion of the second radiating portion, and includes at least two branches. The reconfigurable circuit selectively opens and closes the branches such that the antenna element operates in different bands.
US08866682B1
A coldplate assembly for a phased array antenna has a first coldplate having one or more internal coolant channels and one or more interlocking members disposed at side edges thereof; and a second coldplate having one or more internal coolant channels and one or more interlocking members disposed at side edges thereof. The one or more interlocking members of the first coldplate interlock with the one or more interlocking members of the second coldplate.
US08866681B2
The present invention is generally related to an antenna assembly, and in particular to a rear-view mirror antenna assembly for motor vehicles. The antenna assembly comprises a mirror attached to a casing (11) defining an outer perimeter (4), the assembly further comprising an antenna element (1) having a radiating element, wherein said radiating element is housed within said mirror and said casing and it is located substantially along said outer perimeter.
US08866670B2
Methods and apparatuses for a mobile station to obtain a position fix using synchronous hybrid positioning and asynchronous hybrid positioning techniques are described. In one embodiment, a wireless communication apparatus may transmit a request to a mobile station for fine time assistance (FTA) corresponding to a global navigation satellite system (GNSS). The apparatus may be configured to receive the FTA, first timing measurements from one or more base stations, and second timing measurements from the GNSS. The apparatus may identify whether the FTA was received from the mobile station. If it is determined that the FTA was received, then the apparatus may establish a position fix for the mobile station using a synchronous hybrid positioning technique relating the timing measurements to a time scale associated with a system frame number (SFN). If not, then the apparatus may establish the position fix using an asynchronous hybrid positioning technique.
US08866668B2
In a radar apparatus, a peak extractor performs frequency analysis on a beat signal to obtain a frequency spectrum for each of first and second detection modes based on the beat signal for a corresponding one of the first and second detection modes. The peak extractor extracts a plurality of first peak-signal components from the frequency spectrum obtained for the first detection mode, and a plurality of second peak-signal components from the frequency spectrum obtained for the second detection mode. A determiner compares each of the plurality of first peak-signal components with a corresponding one of the plurality of second peak-signal components to deter mine whether a noise is included in the beat signal according to a result of the comparison.
US08866667B2
One embodiment is directed towards a FMCW radar having a single antenna. The radar includes a transmit path having a voltage controlled oscillator controlled by a phase-locked loop, and the phase-locked loop includes a fractional-n synthesizer configured to implement a FMCW ramp waveform that ramps from a starting frequency to an ending frequency and upon reaching the ending frequency returns to the starting frequency to ramp again. The radar also includes a delay path coupled between a coupler on the transmit path and a mixer in a receive path. The delay path is configured to delay a local oscillator reference signal from the transmit path such that the propagation time of the local oscillator reference signal from the coupler to the mixer through the delay path is between the propagation time of signal reflected off the antenna and the propagation time of a leakage signal through a circulator.
US08866665B2
Various targets are detected in a more accurate manner. Provision is made for a receiving antenna part that has a plurality of receiving antennas arranged in a horizontal direction with a part thereof being shifted in a vertical direction from the others, and has a plurality of combinations of the receiving antennas, of which each combination detects an azimuth in the horizontal direction and an azimuth in the vertical direction of a target; and detection means that detects the target a plurality of times while changing the combination of the receiving antennas. The detection accuracy of the target can be enhanced by making a comparison between at least two detection results obtained by the detection means.
US08866659B2
A data acquisition device incorporates a front end analog-to-digital converter (ADC), which is responsive to an applied analog input signal, sample that signal and provide digital data representative of the sampled signal. The digital data is applied to a data channel connected to a data acquisition memory, which stores data values representative of the sampled analog input signal. The digital data from the ADC is also applied to a real time a trigger channel connected to a composite function trigger equalizer and filter, a trigger processor and to a trigger memory. The trigger channel operates in real time to identify trigger events and store real-time trigger event occurrence signals in the trigger memory. A controller reads out the stored data values from the data acquisition memory by way of a data equalizer, in synchronism with corresponding real-time trigger event occurrence signals from the trigger memory.
US08866657B2
An apparatus of a Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) is provided. The apparatus includes a logic circuit for performing a logical operation based on a combination of bit values b0 through bN-1 of a digital code, and a plurality of switches for controlling an output state of a plurality of current cells based on an output of the logical operation, wherein the plurality of the current cells respectively output currents under a control of respective ones of the plurality of switches.
US08866651B2
An analog-to-digital converter includes an input terminal to which an analog input voltage is input, a digital-to-analog converter unit, a comparator that compares the analog input voltage and an output voltage of the digital-to-analog converter unit with each other, a successive approximation register that stores a conversion result output from the comparator, a generator unit that generates added digital data and subtracted digital data, the added digital data and the subtracted digital data being obtained by adding and subtracting the conversion result to and from the conversion result retained by the successive approximation register, respectively, and a determination unit that determines whether or not a failure is occurring, by using a result of the comparison between the analog input voltage and output levels obtained by the digital-to-analog converter unit converting the added digital data and the subtracted digital data.
US08866642B2
An electronic keyboard including a plurality of keys arranged as a matrix, each key including a plunger, and a conductive element on the bottom of the plunger, the conductive element having a characteristic resistance, an electronic circuit having an input current source, and mounted on a surface beneath the plurality of keys such that when a key is pressed its conductive element closes a switch in the circuit, an analog-to-digital convertor for converting an output voltage of the circuit to a digital signal, and a controller for determining from the digital signal when a key is pressed, and for identifying the key that is pressed.
US08866632B2
A method of communication from the surface with to the downhole logging tool string is disclosed. The method includes movement of the drill pipe string up or down at the surface to create coded signature signals by the downhole logging tool string and send those signature signals to a processor in the downhole logging tool string that has been preprogramed to recognize the signature signals.
US08866630B2
A container having an internally directed audible output actuated by removal of a stopper is described. The container includes a hollow body with an open mouth and a base that includes a speaker and control electronics. A sensor is provided that is configured to detect presence of the stopper in the open mouth of the container. In one embodiment the sensor is comprised of a normally open electrical circuit formed by a pair of opposing arrays of electrical traces disposed within the mouth. In another embodiment, the sensor comprises an infrared light source and sensor that detects an amount of internally reflected infrared light within walls of the body. In yet another embodiment, the sensor comprises a device which detects the presence and/or absence of a magnetic field. Upon detection of removal of the stopper, an audible output is produced by the speaker into the container body and is perceivable by nearby users.
US08866614B2
An RFID card includes a smartcard controller that receives power from a host device. The RFID card also includes a small inductive device capable of inductive coupling with an RFID reader. The small inductive device is small enough to fit in the form factor of a memory card or SIM card. Enhancement circuits enhance the usable read and write distance of the RFID card.
US08866609B2
An electric seal includes a wireless tracking facility having a wireless telecommunicating device disposed in a container and having two contacts, a housing engaged in the receptacle, and a lock shaft engageable into the receptacle and lockable to the housing for retaining the receptacle and the housing together, and the lock shaft includes a portion electrically connected to one of the contacts of the wireless telecommunicating device and another portion connected to the other contact of the wireless telecommunicating device for electrically coupling to the contacts of the wireless telecommunicating device together, and the wireless telecommunicating device emits a signal out when the lock shaft is cut or damaged.
US08866602B2
Systems and methods for mapping message contents to virtual physical properties for vibrotactile messaging are disclosed. For example, one disclosed method includes the steps of receiving a sensor signal from a sensor, the sensor configured to detect an interaction with a messaging device, determining a virtual physical property of a virtual message object based at least in part on the sensor signal, determining a haptic effect based at least in part on the virtual physical parameter; and generating a haptic signal configured to cause an actuator to output the haptic effect.
US08866601B2
A system in which haptic effects are generated using an actuator receives a frequency response for the actuator at a standard voltage and generates a lookup table for an overdrive voltage based on the frequency response. The system then receives a haptic signal for the haptic effect and extracts one or more frequencies for the haptic signal. The system then determines the corresponding overdrive voltage from the lookup table for each of the frequencies and, for each of the frequencies, applies the corresponding overdrive voltage to the actuator. The overdrive voltage is greater than or equal to the standard voltage.
US08866598B2
A system for use in a healthcare facility having a nurse call system with a nurse call computer located remotely from patient rooms is provided. The system includes a hospital bed having communication circuitry configured for communicating data from the hospital bed. An interface unit is spaced from the hospital bed. The interface unit has a first connector to which the hospital bed couples via a wired connection, a second connector which is communicatively coupled to the nurse call system, and circuitry comprising a third connector for connection to an external device.
US08866596B1
In RFID systems employed for loss prevention, an item supplier or an ingress reader writes an ownership code associated with an organization or facility into a tag, indicating that an item to which the tag is attached is associated with the facility and not foreign. At checkout or point-of-sale an authorization reader or mobile device writes a computed code and/or a ticket into the tag indicating that the tagged item is allowed to leave the facility. At point-of-exit an exit reader determines if the tagged item is allowed to leave the facility by verifying the ownership code and the code or ticket. The loss-prevention system may issue an alert or sound an alarm if a facility-associated item is leaving the facility without a proper code or ticket indicating that the item is approved to leave.
US08866581B1
A mobile device is described that stores and renders content. Access to certain content is predicated at least upon receiving a particular wireless signal from an external or separate device that has previously been associated with the mobile device or with content stored on the mobile device.
US08866576B2
There is provided a transformer capable of significantly reducing leakage inductance while satisfying safety standards. The transformer includes: a winding part having a plurality of coils wound on an outer peripheral surface of a pipe shaped body part while being stacked thereon; and a terminal connection part extended from one end of the winding part in an outer diameter direction thereof and having a plurality of external connection terminals coupled to a distal end thereof, the terminal connection part including at least one catching groove formed such that the coils are led to the outside of the winding part therethrough, and a lead wire of at least one of the coils being led to the outside of the winding part while maintaining a winding direction of the coils.
US08866570B2
A reed switch apparatus utilizes one or more reed switches to communicate with one or more devices. In one configuration, the reed switch apparatus utilizes a single magnetic field to simultaneously activate two or more reed switches. In another configuration, two or more reed switches, each acting independent of one another are simultaneously activated by a single magnetic field. Additionally, a method of controlling at least two devices includes exposing a reed switch apparatus to a single magnetic field. Yet another method includes activating a device via the use of a single reed switch mounted to a portion of a warehouse structure.
US08866567B2
A quartz crystal unit has a quartz crystal tuning fork resonator having a thickness within a range of 0.05 mm to 0.18 mm, and at least one groove formed in at least one of opposite main surfaces of each of first and second tuning fork tines so that a length of the at least one groove is within a range of 20% to 78% of an overall length of the resonator and less than 1.29 mm. An electrode is disposed on at least one of a base portion and a surface of the at least one groove so that the electrode of the first tuning fork tine has an electrical polarity opposite to an electrical polarity of the electrode of the second tuning fork tine. The capacitance ratio r2 of a second overtone mode of vibration of the quartz crystal tuning fork resonator is greater than 1500. The quartz crystal tuning fork resonator is housed in a case having an open end, and a lid is connected to the case.
US08866553B2
A driver for an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) has an overall feedback loop between its input and its output for maintaining overall accuracy, and a much faster feedback loop in its output stage that quickly compensates for output transients before the overall feedback loop can substantially react to the transients. Output voltage transients are created by the intermittent capacitive load of the ADC. The fast feedback loop can be made very fast since there are only a few components in the fast feedback path. The fast reduction of the output transients enables a shorter sampling time, leading to more accurate analog-to-digital conversion. The overall gain of the driver can be set to be greater than unity while still providing good output transient suppression.
US08866552B2
Disclosed are various embodiments of a current-mode line driver that may facilitate transmitting signals to a load. The current-mode line driver may comprise a common-mode current sense element that provides a signal corresponding to the common-mode output current of the line driver. A transconductance element receives the signal from the common-mode current sense element and provides a compensating current that is based at least in part on the signal. The compensating current may reduce the common-mode output current of the line driver.
US08866549B2
The exemplary embodiments include methods, computer readable media, and devices for calibrating a non-linear power detector of a radio frequency device based upon measurements of the non-linear power detector output and the associated power amplifier output level, and a set of data points that characterize a nominal non-linear power detector. The set of data points that characterize the nominal non-linear power detector is stored in a calibration system memory as nominal power detector output data. The measured non-linear power detector outputs, power amplifier output levels, and the nominal power detector output data is used to determine a power detector error function that characterizes the difference between the response of the non-linear power detector and the nominal non-linear power detector. The power detector error function and the nominal power detector output data are used to develop a calibrated power detector output data set that is stored in the non-linear power detector.
US08866538B2
The present inventive concept is a hyuntak transistor that can prevent a thermal runaway phenomenon and a low heat high efficiency constant current circuit using an auxiliary transistor capable of a high amplification and a constant current. The circuit may be applied to drive a LED and a motor.
US08866533B2
A method and apparatus for controlling a device in electronic equipment having a plurality of devices are provided. The apparatus includes a power supply for supplying power, a slave device including a driving circuit operated according to the supplied power for transmitting and receiving data to and from another device, a switching circuit for connecting the driving circuit to a ground terminal when the switching circuit is turned-on and for opening the driving circuit from the ground terminal when the switching circuit is turned-off, and a host device for transmitting a control signal for turning-on the switching circuit when driving the slave device and for turning-off the switching circuit when not driving the slave device. When the device is not driven, the switching circuit may open a driving circuit from a ground terminal, thereby cutting-off leakage of an electric current through the device.
US08866532B2
In accordance with an embodiment, a passive integrator includes a charge storage element coupled between first and second transistors, wherein the first transistor has a current carrying electrode coupled for receiving a signal and a current carrying electrode coupled to the charge storage element. The second transistor has a current carrying electrode coupled to the charge storage element and a second current carrying electrode coupled to another charge storage element.
US08866531B2
Broadband analog radio-frequency devices can be used to create building blocks for scalable analog signal processors that operate over bandwidths of 50 MHz to 20 GHz or more. Example devices include integrators (transconductors), digitally controlled attenuators, buffers, and scalable summers implemented using deep sub-micron CMOS technology. Because the devices are implemented in CMOS, the ratio of trace/component size to signal wavelength is about the same as that of low-frequency devices implemented in printed circuit boards. Combining this scaling with high gain/high bandwidth enables implementation of feedback and programmability for broadband analog signal processing.
US08866524B2
A semiconductor device includes a plurality of driving units configured to drive an output node based on an input signal and be on/off controlled based on driving force control codes, respectively, a slew rate control signal generation block configured to generate a slew rate control signal based on the driving force control codes, and a plurality of signal delay units configured to delay the input signal by respectively different delay amounts, transfer resultant signals to the plurality of driving units, and be respectively controlled in their delay amounts based on the slew rate control signal.
US08866515B2
A drive unit comprises a switching circuit and an abnormal signal generating circuit. The switching circuit is configured to be connected to an external time generating circuit, and is configured to switch a driving condition relating to a driving voltage of a voltage-driven element in a transitional period between a driving state and a non-driving state of the voltage-driven element based on a measurement time which is measured by using of the time generating circuit. The abnormal signal generating circuit is configured to generate an abnormal signal when an accurate measurement of the time using the time generating circuit is not executed.
US08866506B2
A contact structure for inspection that is installed on a bottom surface of a circuit board includes a ground conductor that is grounded; an elastic contact member that is brought into contact with an inspection target object; and a conductive line that electrically connects the circuit board and the elastic contact member. Here, the elastic contact member may be provided on a bottom surface of the ground conductor that is grounded. The elastic contact member may include an insulating layer, a wiring layer, a contactor and an elastic body provided at a position corresponding to the contactor. The elastic body provides the elastic contact member with elasticity when the contactor is brought into contact with an electrode. The elastic contact member is provided in parallel with the ground conductor. The wiring layer and the ground conductor form a microstrip line.
US08866502B2
Methods and apparatus are disclosed to simultaneously, wirelessly test semiconductor components formed on a semiconductor wafer. The semiconductor components transmit respective outcomes of a self-contained testing operation to wireless automatic test equipment via a common communication channel. Multiple receiving antennas observe the outcomes from multiple directions in three dimensional space. The wireless automatic test equipment determines whether one or more of the semiconductor components operate as expected and, optionally, may use properties of the three dimensional space to determine a location of one or more of the semiconductor components. The wireless testing equipment may additionally determine performance of the semiconductor components by detecting infrared energy emitted, transmitted, and/or reflected by the semiconductor wafer before, during, and/or after a self-contained testing operation.
US08866497B2
A capacitive sensor for detecting a stimulus. The capacitive sensor includes an electrode and a processing unit electrically coupled to the electrode and configured to determine the presence of a stimulus based on the rate of change of the electrode capacitance. A substrate is positioned adjacent the electrode, wherein the stimulus corresponds to the placement of an object against the substrate. The processing unit is operative to determine a time rate of change based on successive measurements of the electrode capacitance. In addition, the processing unit is operative to determine the presence of a stimulus in response to the time rate of change being less than a reference value.
US08866492B2
Manufacturing method, switching apparatus, transmission line switching apparatus, and test apparatus
An actuator is manufactured that includes piezoelectric film that does not suffer physical damage. Provided is a manufacturing method comprising first insulating layer deposition of depositing a first insulating layer on a substrate using an insulating material; first annealing of annealing the first insulating layer; first electrode layer deposition of depositing a first electrode layer on the first insulating layer using a conductive material; first piezoelectric film deposition of depositing a first piezoelectric film on the first electrode layer by applying a sol-gel material on the first electrode layer and annealing the sol-gel material; second electrode layer deposition of depositing a second electrode layer on the first piezoelectric film using a conductive material; second insulating layer deposition of depositing a second insulating layer on the second electrode layer using an insulating material; and second annealing of annealing the second insulating layer.
US08866481B2
A receive coil for MRI includes a stacked pair of coil elements to communicate the respective MR signals therein to the signal processing system in separate channels. This greatly increases image SNR and penetration depth and in parallel imaging. The coils are arranged in a stacked relationship so as to be at least partly and preferably wholly overlapped and lying in the same or closely adjacent planes. The coils include tuning capacitors to a common resonant frequency. The coils are connected by a conductor arranged such that the signals of the first and second coils are decoupled. The conductor can form a common portion of the coils including a capacitance of in the common portion arranged. The coils can be connected by two conductors one of which is a short and the other contains a capacitor. In both cases the connection conductors provide the decoupling.
US08866477B2
In a magnetic resonance (MR) system and method to separate an MR system-dependent phase influence from a subject-dependent phase influence in phase values of an MR phase image data set of an examination subject, to which two different tissue types with different resonance frequencies make a signal contribution, the system-dependent phase influence is determined by selecting a contour around a region shown in the MR phase image data set, calculating the system-dependent phase influence in this region with the assumption that the spatial curve of the background phase corresponds to a harmonic or quasi-harmonic function, and subtracting the system-dependent phase influence from the acquired phase image data set to determine the subject-dependent phase influence.
US08866471B2
A probe for eddy current monitoring of the surface of a circumferential slot formed in a turbojet disk. The probe includes a stem fastened to a support and a first multi-element sensor constrained to move with the stem and configured to be inserted into the circumferential slot to perform the inspection, and a second multi-element sensor. The two multi-element sensors are disposed back to back, and the stem of the probe is mounted to pivot about its own axis to enable the two multi-element sensors to be inserted in the slot.
US08866467B1
Systems and methods are disclosed to provide a process independent circuit for measuring output current of low drop out (LDO) regulators as well as buck regulators. The system can also measure the on resistance (RDSon) of the buck power transistors.
US08866460B2
A power supply uses a power converter to generate a regulated voltage by referencing to a first DC voltage, a low dropout (LDO) regulator to generate an output voltage from the regulated voltage by referencing to a second DC voltage, and a reference voltage generator to dynamically adjust the first DC voltage according to the input voltage and the control voltage of the output transistor of the LDO regulator. The dropout voltage of the LDO regulator can be minimized to maintain the high efficiency of the power supply at different loading or selected output voltages.
US08866458B2
An integrated start-up circuit for a power supply includes a converter, which in one implementation can be a buck converter. The buck converter includes a gate driver configured to drive a power switch, where the power switch is coupled across a DC bus node and a switching node of the buck converter. The power switch is configured to provide a start-up voltage to the buck converter from the DC bus node during start-up of the buck converter. The buck converter includes a bootstrap switch coupled across the gate driver and a Vcc node and a Schottky diode coupled across the bootstrap switch and the switching node, where the start-up voltage is provided at the Vcc node through the bootstrap switch.
US08866457B2
A voltage regulator has a phase compensation circuit which changes consumption current according to load current thereby to reduce consumption current. The phase compensation circuit includes: a first transistor having a drain connected to an output terminal of an error amplifier circuit; a second transistor having a drain connected to a gate of the first transistor and a gate connected to the gate of the first transistor; a current mirror circuit connected to the output terminal of the error amplifier circuit, a drain of the first transistor, and the drain of the second transistor; and a capacitor connected between the gate of the second transistor and a drain of an output transistor. Thereby, current consumed by the phase compensation circuit can be changed according to the load current, resulting in that the voltage regulator consumes less current.
US08866452B1
An electronic system includes a controller that controls switching in a switching power converter in accordance with a dynamically determined, minimum line voltage switching threshold based on one or more operating parameters of the electronic system. In at least one embodiment, the one or more operating parameters of the electronic system include power utilization of a load. The controller utilizes the dynamically determined, minimum line voltage switching threshold to determine when to enable and disable switching in the switching power converter. Since the controller bases determination of the dynamically determined, minimum line voltage switching threshold on power utilization of the load, the controller operates more efficiently by reducing switching losses while still meeting power demand by the load.
US08866448B2
A control unit and a method for triggering personal protection devices are proposed, which charge an energy reservoir for the control unit via a charging circuit. The charging circuit sets a charging rate for charging as a function of a signal generated outside the charging surface.
US08866440B2
An electronic device, including a battery, a port for connecting a battery charger to charge the battery, a light emitter, and a sensor connected to the light emitter, for activating the light emitter when the sensor detects one or more vicinity light requirements indicating a need for light in the environment of the sensor, and for deactivating said light emitter when the battery charger is successfully connected to the port.
US08866439B2
Electromechanical lock and its operation method are provided. The lock includes a threshold device configured to control the power transmission mechanism so that the amount of the received mechanical power in the form of the electric power is sufficient for powering the electronic circuit and the actuator, and so that a normal operation of the electromechanical lock, including an insertion of the key into the electromechanical lock, is sufficient for power the electronic circuit and the actuator.
US08866438B2
Provided are a system and a method for providing reactive power using an electric car battery, and more particularly, a system and a method for providing reactive power to a micro-grid using a bidirectional charger that is an electric car battery and an electric car charging device.
US08866435B2
A control device controls an inverter controlling an output of a motor by PWM control. The control device calculates a reference frequency based on a torque and a rotation speed of the motor, calculates a random coefficient using two data tables, and calculates, as a random frequency, a value obtained by adding, to a reference frequency, a value obtained by multiplying a prescribed width by the random coefficient. The control device calculates control limit lines based on the rotation speed of the motor, and corrects the random frequency so as to fall within a range that is higher than the control limit line and lower than the control limit line. The control device generates a carrier signal having a random frequency as a carrier frequency.
US08866432B2
A motor control device comprises: a motor control unit that controls a motor; and a signal output unit that outputs a signal according to rotation of the motor, wherein the motor control unit controls the motor based on an output signal of the signal output unit so that a driven object driven by the motor is displaced to a target stop position. The motor control unit is configured to function as: a first control unit that estimates a upper current limit and controls the motor according to the upper current limit; a second control unit that controls motor according to an operated amount of at least one of the motor or the driven object; a switching unit that switches between the first control unit and the second control unit; a first calculating unit that calculates an amount necessary for stop; and a second calculating unit.
US08866429B2
A power-saving driving device is provided for a same load pattern device 23 that is driven by a motor 21 receiving electric power from an inverter 19 and repeatedly operated in a same load pattern. The power-saving driving device includes: an electric power amount calculator 81 that calculates an electric power amount W received by the inverter in the same load pattern; and a parameter selection and command device 83 that makes a parameter of the inverter change to a plurality of values, compares the received electric power amounts corresponding to the values of the parameter, selects the parameter value minimizing the received electric power amount and issues the selected value as a command to the inverter.
US08866428B2
A method for determining a temperature of an electric motor including stator windings includes injecting an AC current into a D-axis current of a stator winding at a frequency that is synchronized with a control frequency of the electric motor, determining a DC-phase current, determining a resistance of the stator winding corresponding to the DC-phase current and an applied voltage, and determining a temperature of the electric motor as a function of the resistance of the stator winding.
US08866424B2
Provided is a motor driving device. The motor driving device includes a drive signal generating unit, a current control unit, and a driving unit. The drive signal generating unit generates a motor drive signal for driving a motor. The current control unit is disposed at a front of the drive signal generating unit and controls a current of the drive signal generating unit so as to prevent noise and vibration of a motor caused by electromagnetic interference generated when a switch of the drive signal generating unit is turned on/off. The driving unit drives the motor based on the motor drive signal outputted from the drive signal generating unit.
US08866413B2
An LED drive circuit, which comprises a transformer, an MOS tube, a power regulating resistor, a direct current isolation circuit, a rectifying circuit, and a voltage control circuit; when the voltage of the control terminal of the voltage control circuit is higher than the threshold voltage of the MOS tube, the MOS tube is on, a current from an external power supply flows through the first winding of the transformer, the MOS tube and the power regulating resistor successively; when the voltage of the power regulating resistor is close to the voltage of the reference terminal of the voltage control circuit, the MOS tube is cut off, the second winding of the transformer charges the capacitor of the MOS tube via the direct current isolation circuit, the rectifying circuit is on, and the first winding of the transformer supplies power to the LED load via the rectifying circuit.
US08866412B2
A circuit that has one or more control units that divide a load into two or more load groups, with each load group comprised of at least one load element. The one or more control units directing power from a power source to one or more of the load groups based on voltage variations in an output of the power source, load grouping, and operational parameters of the load elements. The circuit further includes one or more pass stages that regulate current flow from the power source to the load groups.
US08866409B2
A constant-current Light Emitting Diode (LED) driver circuit is provided, and the circuit includes: an output voltage adjustable circuit and at least one path of LED load, wherein the output voltage adjustable circuit comprises: a switch converting main circuit, an output characteristic parameter sampling circuit, and an output voltage controller. The output voltage controller is used to adjust the output voltage of the switch converting main circuit according to the variation relationship between the sampling signal output by the output characteristic parameter sampling circuit and the output voltage, determine the adjustive direction of the output voltage magnitude of the switch converting main circuit according to the change of the sampling signal, adjust the magnitude of the output voltage of the switch converting main circuit according to the preset step, and finally make the output voltage equal to the voltage of one path of LED load with the highest voltage or the difference between the output voltage and the voltage of one path of LED load voltage with the highest voltage within the predetermined range. The present solution implements reducing the connection complexity and power dissipation on the base of controlling the multi-path constant-current LED.
US08866405B2
A lighting device has a direct-current power generation circuit, a rectangular-wave generation circuit, a pulse generating circuit, lamp-voltage detection means, and pulse-generation command means. The direct-current power generation circuit generates direct-current power from external power. The rectangular-wave generation circuit converts the direct-current power to rectangular-wave alternating-current power. The pulse generating circuit superposes high-voltage pulses on the rectangular-wave power output from the rectangular-wave generation circuit and starts a discharge lamp. The lamp-voltage detection means detects, in digital form, a lamp voltage supplied to the discharge lamp. The pulse-generation command means issues a pulse generation command to the pulse generating circuit when the value detected by the lamp-voltage detection means reaches a predetermined no-load-voltage determination level.
US08866401B2
A multi-stage power supply for a load control device is able to operate in a low-power mode in which the power supply has a decreased power consumption when an electrical load controlled by the load control device is off. The load control device comprises a load control circuit and a controller, which operate to control the amount of power delivered to the load. The power supply comprises a first efficient power supply (e.g., a switching power supply) operable to generate a first DC supply voltage. The power supply further comprises a second inefficient power supply (e.g., a linear power supply) operable to receive the first DC supply voltage and to generate a second DC supply voltage for powering the controller. The controller controls the multi-stage power supply to the low-power mode when the electrical load is off, such that the magnitude of the first DC supply voltage decreases to a decreased magnitude and the inefficient power supply continues to generate the second DC supply voltage.
US08866395B2
The instant application describes a display apparatus that includes a display panel configured to display an image; and a backlight unit configured to illuminate the display panel from a back of the display panel. The backlight unit includes: N light-emitting diode strings connected in parallel with each other, each of the N light-emitting diode strings includes M light-emitting diodes connected in series, N being an integer of 2 or more and M being an integer of 1 or more; a power source unit connected in series with the N light-emitting diode strings and configured to generate a voltage; a drive unit connected in series with the N light-emitting diode strings and the power source unit and configured to supply currents to the N light-emitting diode strings; and a current regulator configured to regulate current flowing in each of the N light-emitting diode strings.
US08866393B2
Low voltage systems and methods, as well as a light assembly and LED driver are provided. In one aspect, a low voltage system is provided that is capable of drawing power from a power source having a first voltage, the system having at least one low voltage power supply connectable to the power source and having an output providing a second voltage that is lower than the first voltage. The system further has at least one low voltage load and circuit means connecting the output of the power supply to the at least one low voltage load. The at least one load can be a light assembly, and the light assembly can comprise one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs). Also provided is an LED driver that provides for one or more improved dimming characteristics. A light assembly employing the LED driver is also provided.
US08866389B2
The plasma temperature control apparatus includes a plasma generating section 40 that turns a plasma-generating gas into plasma, and a plasma-generating gas temperature control section 30 that controls the temperature of the plasma-generating gas supplied to the plasma generating section 40. The temperature of the plasma generated in the plasma generating section 40 is controlled by controlling the temperature of the plasma-generating gas.
US08866387B2
The vehicular headlight apparatus includes a control means configured to change a light illumination area following a position of a detected target object until a shift angle between a reference direction and a direction to the target object with respect to a headlight is calculated to exceed a maximum limit shift angle, and configured to, when a vehicle speed is detected to exceed a predetermined threshold value, set the maximum limit shift angle to a small deflection angle, and change the present light illumination area to a low-beam light illumination area covered by the headlight in a low-beam state if the shift angle is calculated to exceed the maximum limit shift angle set to the small deflection angle.
US08866380B2
The invention provides a light-emitting arrangement, comprising: a light source adapted to emit light of a first wavelength; a wavelength converting member comprising an organic wavelength converting compound adapted to receive light of said first wavelength and to convert at least part of the received light to light of a second wavelength, said wavelength converting member and said light source being mutually spaced apart; and a sealing structure at least partially surrounding said wavelength converting member to form a sealed cavity containing at least said wavelength converting member, said sealed cavity containing an inert gas and oxygen gas, the concentration of oxygen gas being in the range of from 0.05 to 3% based on the total volume within said sealed cavity. An oxygen concentration in this range has been found to have very limited influence on the life time of the organic wavelength converting compound.
US08866373B2
A display device includes a display panel and a light emitting device to supply light to the display panel. The light emitting device includes a light emitting element emitting a first light and a fluorescent layer receiving the first light, transmitting a portion of the first light, converting a remaining portion of the first light to a second light having a wavelength range different from the first light, and emitting the second light. The second light emitted by the fluorescent layer has a full width at half maximum equal to or larger than 110 nanometers (nm) and a light emission spectrum having a peak wavelength within a wavelength range of about 530 nm to about 560 nm. The second light has a light emission intensity corresponding to 10 to 30 percent of a peak light emission intensity of the first light.
US08866370B2
A spark plug including a center electrode and a ground electrode having a core portion and an outer layer covering the core portion, the core portion being formed from a material having a thermal conductivity higher than that of the outer layer. At least a portion in which thickness of the outer layer is 0.5 mm or less is present at a cross-section perpendicular to a direction in which the ground electrode is extended. Further, the composition of the electrode material forming the outer layer is as follows: Ni is 96 mass % or more, total of at least one kind selected from Y and rare earth elements is 0.05 mass % or more, Al is 0.5 mass % or less, and Si is 0.5 mass % or more and 1.5 mass % or less, where the total of Ni, Y, rare earth elements, Al, Si does not exceed 100 mass %.
US08866368B2
An LED light bulb includes a bulb housing, at least two heat sinks, an LED chip connected on each of the heat sinks, a circuit board driving the LED chip to work, a bulb base, and a bulb cap. The inner sides of the heat sinks encircle into an air cavity. Each heat sink has a first opening. The bulb base has a second opening. The first opening is exposed in the second opening to communicate with the air cavity. The top end of the bulb housing has a third opening to communicate with the air cavity. The air cavity forms up-and-down circulating convection air via the three openings.
US08866363B2
According to one embodiment, an electrostatic actuator includes a substrate, an electrode unit, a film body unit, and an urging unit. The electrode unit is provided on the substrate. The film body unit is provided to oppose the electrode unit and is conductive. The urging unit is configured to support the film body unit and includes a connection unit connected to the substrate and an elastic unit provided between the connection unit and the film body unit. A contacting state and a separated state are possible for the electrode unit and the film body unit according to a voltage applied to the electrode unit. The elastic unit has a branch portion between one end of the elastic unit connected to the connection unit and multiple one other ends of the elastic unit connected to the film body unit.
US08866360B2
A rotor core for an Internal Permanent Magnet (IPM) machine includes a cavity having a magnet disposed therein. The cavity defines an air slot adjacent a radially outermost edge of the magnet disposed therein. A leakage flux path extends across the air slot and connects opposing sides of the cavity. The leakage flux path is oriented in an approximate tangential relationship relative to an axis of rotation of the rotor core, and is angled relative to the radially outermost edge of the magnet disposed within the cavity to direct flux away from the magnet. The cavity further includes an air pocket disposed along a radial inner surface of the magnet relative to the axis of rotation, adjacent the air slot of the cavity.
US08866355B2
Disclosed herein is a switched reluctance motor including: a rotor part including a rotor core having a shaft fixedly coupled to the center thereof and a plurality of rotor poles formed to be protruded from the rotor core; a stator part having the rotor part rotatably received therein and a plurality of stator salient poles formed to be protruded from the stator yoke; a balancing part selectively coupled to an upper portion or a lower portion of the rotor part and having a plurality of sensing grooves formed in an outer peripheral surface thereof; a motor housing provided with an opening part through which the shaft penetrates; and a position detecting unit disposed between the rotor part and the stator part and coupled to an inner portion of the motor housing.
US08866348B2
A power system includes a power semiconductor devices; a control circuit outputting first firing signals each being for a corresponding power semiconductor device, and outputting first activation response signals each being associated with a corresponding power semiconductor device. A first interface circuit cooperates with the control circuit to input a first serial signal and output the first firing signals, and to input the first activation response signals and output a second serial signal. A second interface circuit cooperates with a controller to input the second serial signal, to output to the controller second activation response signals corresponding to the first activation response signals, to input from the controller second firing signals corresponding to the first firing signals, and to output the first serial signal. The controller controls the power semiconductor devices with the second firing signals, and monitors the power semiconductor devices with the second activation response signals.
US08866344B2
A system parallels engine-generators on a common bus and includes circuit breakers and automatic voltage regulators. Each engine-generator includes an output having an alternating current voltage. Each breaker is between the output of a corresponding engine-generator and the bus. Each regulator includes a first mode controlling field excitation for a corresponding engine-generator and a second mode automatically controlling the AC voltage. A processor for the regulators starts the engine-generators, closes the breakers, causes the regulators to increase the field excitation for the corresponding engine-generator in the first mode as long as less than a predetermined current flows through a corresponding breaker until the field excitation is equal to a rated voltage, and responsively causes the regulators to automatically control the AC voltage of the output of the corresponding engine-generator in the second mode, and, otherwise, decreases the field excitation of the corresponding engine-generator in the first mode.
US08866340B2
The supercapacitor-based grid fault ride-through system provides a dynamic model of a wind generation system including a Voltage Source Converter (VSC), which functions as a Static Compensator (STATCOM). The power control capability of the STATCOM is extended by incorporating energy stored in a supercapacitor. The system implements a vector control technique based on the decoupling of real and reactive power. Simulation results show that a fixed speed induction generator is capable of withstanding a significant grid fault when aided by the supercapacitor-based grid fault ride-through system. Moreover, the induction generator regains its pre-fault status immediately after the fault is cleared.
US08866337B2
Techniques are provided for providing power onto multiple power distribution paths. Power controller devices receive power from a power source device and are coupled to first and second multiplexer units. The multiplexer units receive power from the power source devices via the power controller devices for first and second power distribution paths. A multiplexer control unit controls the multiplexer units to output power from the first power distribution path, the second power distribution path or both of the paths. Power subsystems are provided comprising first and second power transistor units. The first transistor unit receives power from the first multiplexer unit over the first path and the second transistor unit receives power from the second multiplexer unit over the second path. Ports are provided and are coupled to a powered device. The multiplexer control unit controls the multiplexer units to supply power to the respective ports according to the type of powered device detected at a port.
US08866336B2
A line voltage device with an auxiliary power connection for a bathing installation. An exemplary embodiment of the device includes a housing structure, and a primary electrical power connection connected to the housing structure and including a primary wiring cable for connection to a line voltage source. A load system is disposed within or adjacent the housing and configured for powered operation by electrical power from the primary electrical power connection. An auxiliary power connection is provided for electrical connection to a separate bathing installation device to provide power to the separate device. A wiring circuit is disposed within or adjacent the housing structure and electrically couples the primary electrical power connection and the auxiliary power connection so that line voltage power is shared between the load system and the separate bathing installation device.
US08866333B2
A power control system includes a vehicle having a first battery and a second battery separate from the first battery; a power converter provided at a building, the power converter converting power charged in the first battery and supplying the converted power to electrical equipment; a first connection line connecting the first battery and the power converter and supplying the power from the first battery to the power converter; and a second connection line connecting the second battery and the power converter and supplying control power to activate the power converter from the second battery to the power converter.
US08866330B2
The invention relates to a tower for a wind turbine and to a cable guide therefor, wherein a nacelle for the wind turbine is arranged on the tower such that it can rotate by means of the azimuth bearing about a vertical axis which runs in the longitudinal direction of the tower. Current-conducting cables are routed in the tower of the wind turbine out of the nacelle from electrical components to the ground. The tower has at least two bundling devices which are suitable for joining the individual cables which run longitudinally in the tower together to form a cable bundle with the cables fixed with respect to one another. The bundling devices are attached to the cables between an upper and a lower area of the cable bundle. In this case, geometric configuration of the bundling device ensures that at least between three cables it is not below a specific minimum distance.
US08866326B1
Embodiments of the disclosure include an electric taxi system including a generator configured to provide an AC power source and a main controller configured to generate one or more PWM control signals. The electric taxi system also includes a plurality of motor controllers connected in parallel to the generator, wherein each of the plurality of motor controllers receives one of the one or more PWM control signals. The electric taxi system further includes a plurality of motors, wherein each of the plurality of motors are coupled to one of the plurality of motor controllers.
US08866321B2
An apparatus and method for generating electricity from ocean wave energy by using a floating device having a first portion that is movably coupled to a second portion. A hydraulic pump is coupled between these portions such that when the floating device is exposed to ocean wave energy, the hydraulic fluid within the pump is displaced. A flow rectifier is used to create a unidirectional hydraulic fluid flow that is dispensed through a rotary-vane pump which, in turn, is coupled to an electrical generator. Thus, as the rotary-vane pump is activated by the unidirectional hydraulic fluid flow, the rotary-vane pump turns the electrical generator for generating electricity. A plurality of hydraulic pumps and associated flow rectifiers, rotary-vane pumps and electrical generators can be coupled between the first and second portions. In addition, the floating device can include a third portion that is also movably coupled to the second portion and a plurality of hydraulic pumps and associated flow rectifiers, rotary-vane pumps and electrical generators can be coupled between the second and third portions.
US08866314B2
The invention relates to inertial systems for the accumulation and conversion of energy, and can be used as a power unit to drive various machines and vehicles. According to the disclosed method, a source of mechanical oscillations is used to generate an alternating rotational torque which is applied to the working train made capable of unidirectional rotational motion. An inertial vibrator disposed axially on the working train is used as the oscillation source. The power unit putting the method into practice comprises an electrical generator, a control device and a power drive, including a base on which a first assembly is disposed, with the capability of unidirectional rotation and including a driving train for the transmission of operating torque and a motor with the capability of free rotation of at least one member with unbalanced mass on a shaft disposed on the first assembly axially relative to the rotation of the driving train, in so doing the kinematic linkage between it and the final driven train contains a second assembly having the capability to transmit the operating torque. The invention makes it possible to eliminate the negative feedback effect of the mechanical load on the motor.
US08866311B2
The substrate includes a first dielectric layer, a first circuit pattern, a plurality of pillars and a second circuit pattern. The first dielectric layer has opposing first and second dielectric surfaces. The first circuit pattern is embedded in the first dielectric layer and defines a plurality of curved trace surfaces. Each of the pillars has an exterior surface adapted for making external electrical connection and a curved base surface abutting a corresponding one of the trace surfaces. The second circuit pattern is on the second dielectric surface of the first dielectric layer and electrically connected to the first circuit pattern.
US08866307B2
A method for making one or more nanostructures is disclosed, the method comprising: depositing a conducting layer on an upper surface of a substrate; depositing a patterned layer of catalyst on the conducting layer; growing the one or more nanostructures on the layer of catalyst; and selectively removing the conducting layer between and around the one or more nanostructures. A device is also disclosed, comprising a substrate, wherein the substrate comprises one or more exposed metal islands separated by one or more insulating areas; a conducting helplayer disposed on the substrate covering at least some of the one or more exposed metal islands or insulating areas; a catalyst layer disposed on the conducting helplayer; and one or more nanostructures disposed on the catalyst layer.
US08866306B2
A multiple-patterned semiconductor device and a method of manufacture are provided. The semiconductor device includes one or more layers with signal tracks. The signal tracks have a quality characteristic. The semiconductor device also includes repeater banks to repower signals. The method of manufacture includes defining portions of layers with photomasks having signal track patterns, determining a quality characteristic of the signal track patterns, and selecting a photomask for etching vias.
US08866302B2
A device includes a first semiconductor chip with a first contact pad on a first face and a second semiconductor chip with a first contact pad on a first face. The second semiconductor chip is placed over the first semiconductor chip, wherein the first face of the first semiconductor chip faces the first face of the second semiconductor chip. Exactly one layer of an electrically conductive material is arranged between the first semiconductor chip and the second semiconductor chip. The exactly one layer of an electrically conductive material electrically couples the first contact pad of the first semiconductor chip to the first contact pad of the second semiconductor chip.
US08866300B1
Structures, materials, and methods to control the spread of a solder material or other flowable conductive material in electronic and/or electromagnetic devices are provided.
US08866298B2
A semiconductor component includes a semiconductor die and a copper-containing electrical conductor. The semiconductor die has a semiconductor device region, an aluminum-containing metal layer on the semiconductor device region, and at least one additional metal layer on the aluminum-containing metal layer which is harder than the aluminum-containing metal layer. The copper-containing electrical conductor is bonded to the at least one additional metal layer of the semiconductor die via an electrically conductive coating of the copper-containing electrical conductor which is softer than the copper of the copper-containing electrical conductor.
US08866290B2
Embodiments of the present disclosure describe techniques and configurations for molded heat spreaders. In some embodiments, a heat spreader includes a first insert having a first face and a first side, the first face positioned to form a bottom surface of a first cavity, and a second insert having a second face and a second side, the second face positioned to form a bottom surface of a second cavity. The second cavity may have a depth that is different from a depth of the first cavity. The heat spreader may further include a molding material disposed between the first and second inserts and coupled with the first side and the second side, the molding material forming at least a portion of a side wall of the first cavity and at least a portion of a side wall of the second cavity. Other embodiments may be described and/or claimed.
US08866279B2
A semiconductor device includes: a lead frame; a semiconductor element held by the lead frame; a frame body which is formed on the lead frame to surround the semiconductor element, cover a side surface of the lead frame, and expose a bottom surface of the lead frame; and a protective resin filling a region surrounded by the frame body. The lead frame includes an uneven part formed in a section which is part of an upper surface of the lead frame, and is covered with the frame body.
US08866278B1
In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a semiconductor package or device including a uniquely configured leadframe sized and configured to maximize the available number of exposed lands or I/O's in the semiconductor device. More particularly, the semiconductor device of the present invention includes a die pad (or die paddle) defining multiple peripheral edge segments. In addition, the semiconductor device includes a plurality of lands which are provided in a prescribed arrangement. Connected to the top surface of the die pad is at least one semiconductor die which is electrically connected to at least some of the lands. At least portions of the die pad, the lands, and the semiconductor die are encapsulated by the package body, with at least portions of the bottom surfaces of the die pad and the lands being exposed in a common exterior surface of the package body.
US08866275B2
A semiconductor device has a substrate with a plurality of conductive vias formed through the substrate and first conductive layer formed over the substrate. A first semiconductor die is mounted over the substrate. A second semiconductor die can be mounted over the first semiconductor die. A leadframe interposer has a base plate and a plurality of base leads extending from the base plate. An etch-resistant conductive layer is formed over a surface of the base plate opposite the base leads. The leadframe is mounted to the substrate over the first semiconductor die. An encapsulant is deposited over the substrate and first semiconductor die. The base plate is removed while retaining the etch-resistant conductive layer and portion of the base plate opposite the base leads to electrically isolate the base leads. An interconnect structure is formed over a surface of the substrate opposite the base leads.
US08866273B2
The present invention relates to the field of semiconductor package structures, and more specifically to a lead frame and a semiconductor package structure thereof. In one embodiment, a lead frame can include a plurality of parallel-arrayed lead fingers with a plurality of grooves situated on surfaces of the lead fingers, where the depths of the grooves can be smaller than the thickness of the lead fingers. In one embodiment, a flip chip semiconductor package structure can include a chip, a group of bumps, and the above-described lead frame. The first surfaces of the bumps can be coupled to the front surface of the chip, and the second surfaces of the bumps can be coupled to the upper surface of the lead frame.
US08866269B2
Semiconductor chips are provided. The semiconductor chip includes a semiconductor chip body having an arch-shaped groove in a backside thereof and a non-conductive material pattern filling the arch-shaped groove. Related methods are also provided.
US08866268B2
A semiconductor package structure and a manufacturing method thereof are provided. The semiconductor package structure includes a semiconductor die, a thermally conductive film, a substrate, a plurality of electrically conductive film patterns, and at least one insulator. The thermally conductive film is disposed on the bottom of the semiconductor die. The substrate is substantially comprised of the electrically conductive material or semiconductor material. Furthermore, a first hole is disposed on and passed all the way through the substrate, and the semiconductor die is disposed in the first hole. The electrically conductive film patterns are disposed on the substrate, and not contacting with each other. In addition, the insulator is connected between the semiconductor die and the substrate.
US08866266B2
A nanotubular MOSFET device extends a scaling roadmap while maintaining good short channel effects and providing competitive drive current. The nanotubular MOSFET device includes a concentric tubular inner and outer gate separated from each other by a tubular shaped epitaxially grown silicon layer, and a source and drain respectively separated by spacers surrounding the tubular inner and outer gates.
US08866265B2
All-carbon-based semiconductor devices are provided. In accordance with an example embodiment, an apparatus includes n-type and p-type carbon-based semiconductor material that form a p-n junction, which are respectively coupled to electrodes having a carbon allotrope. A first one of electrodes is connected to the n-type material and a second one of the electrodes is connected to the p-type material, and collect charge presented at the p-n junction.
US08866259B2
Various embodiments provide inductor devices and fabrication methods. In one embodiment, an inductor device can include a first dielectric layer disposed on a semiconductor substrate; a first planar spiral wiring disposed on the first dielectric layer, and optionally one or more second planar spiral wirings disposed over the first planar spiral wiring. Each of the first and the optional second planar spiral wirings can include a first spiral metal wiring and a second spiral metal wiring connected to the first spiral metal wiring. The second spiral metal wiring can include at least two sub-metal-lines isolated with one another.
US08866242B2
A memory device may comprise a magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) stack, a bottom electrode (BE) layer, and a contact layer. The MTJ stack may include a free layer, a barrier, and a pinned layer. The BE layer may be coupled to the MTJ stack, and encapsulated in a planarized layer. The BE layer may also have a substantial common axis with the MTJ stack. The contact layer may be embedded in the BE layer, and form an interface between the BE layer and the MTJ stack.
US08866234B2
A semiconductor device and a method for manufacturing the same are disclosed. A recess gate structure is formed between an overlapping region between a gate and a source/drain so as to suppress increase in gate induced drain leakage (GIDL), and a gate insulation film is more thickly deposited in a region having weak GIDL, thereby reducing GIDL and thus improving refresh characteristics due to leakage current.
US08866228B2
A diode includes a first region having a first conductive type impurity and formed in a first well having the first conductive type impurity, a second region formed in the first well and having a second conductive type impurity, and a semiconductor pattern disposed above the first well and including a first portion having the first conductive type impurity and a second portion having the second conductive type impurity. The first region and the first portion are coupled with an anode, and the second region and the second portion are coupled with a cathode.
US08866227B2
A method of fabricating a semiconductor device that may begin with providing a semiconductor substrate including a first device region including a silicon layer in direct contact with a buried dielectric layer, a second device region including a silicon germanium layer in direct contact with the buried dielectric layer, and a third device region with a silicon doped with carbon layer. At least one low power semiconductor device may then be formed on the silicon layer within the first device region of the semiconductor substrate. At least one p-type semiconductor device may be formed on the silicon germanium layer of the second device region of the semiconductor substrate. At least one n-type semiconductor device may be formed on the silicon doped with carbon layer of the third device region of the semiconductor substrate.
US08866219B2
Provided is a semiconductor device including a substrate having active patterns extending between first trenches and between second trenches (the first and second trenches intersecting each other), and gate patterns disposed within the first trenches, wherein each of the active patterns includes lower and upper impurity regions, and a channel region between the lower and upper impurity regions, the lower and upper impurity regions being vertically spaced apart from each other and having a conductivity type different from the substrate, and the channel region having the same conductivity type as the substrate, and a bottom surface of the gate pattern is closer to a bottom surface of the first trench than the lower impurity region.
US08866215B2
A semiconductor component is disclosed. One embodiment provides a semiconductor component including a semiconductor body having a cell array region with trenches and an edge region with pn junction. A transition region with at least one trench is formed between the cell array region and the edge region.
US08866210B2
A dielectric structure may be arranged having a thin nitrided surface of an insulator with a charge blocking insulator over the nitrided surface. The insulator may be formed of a number of different insulating materials such as a metal oxide, a metal oxycarbide, a semiconductor oxide, or oxycarbide. In an embodiment, the dielectric structure may be formed by nitridation of a surface of an insulator using ammonia and deposition of a blocking insulator having a larger band gap than the insulator. The dielectric structure may form part of a memory device, as well as other devices and systems.
US08866205B2
A photoelectric conversion device is disclosed. The photoelectric conversion device includes a semiconductor substrate having a plurality of photoelectric converters, a multilayer wiring structure arranged on the semiconductor substrate, and a planarized layer arranged on the multilayer wiring structure. The multilayer wiring structure includes a first wiring layer, an interlayer insulation film arranged to cover the first wiring layer, and a second wiring layer serving as a top wiring layer arranged on the interlayer insulation film. The planarized layer covers the interlayer insulation film and the second wiring layer. The second wiring layer is thinner than the first wiring layer.
US08866198B2
The present invention relates to a display device and a method of manufacturing the display device. The display device includes an insulation substrate, a gate conductor including a gate line and a gate electrode, an organic layer on the insulation substrate and the gate line, and a data conductor including a data line, a drain electrode, and a source electrode. The data line crosses the gate line. The gate electrode, the drain electrode, and the source electrode form a transistor, and a thickness of the gate electrode may be larger than a thickness of the gate line.
US08866195B2
A semiconductor device comprises a semiconductor substrate; a channel layer of at least a first III-V semiconductor compound above the semiconductor substrate; a gate stack structure above a first portion of the channel layer; a source region and a drain region comprising at least a second III-V semiconductor compound above a second portion of the channel layer; and a first metal contact structure above the S/D regions comprising a first metallic contact layer contacting the S/D regions. The first metallic contact layer comprises at least one metal-III-V semiconductor compound.
US08866194B2
A semiconductor device (npn bipolar transistor) includes an n-type collector layer, a base layer constituted by a p+ diffusion layer, a SiGe layer and a p-type silicon film, an n-type emitter layer and a charge transport prevention film formed between the n-type collector layer and the n-type emitter layer and having an effect as a potential barrier with respect to either electrons or holes.
US08866183B2
An LED module includes: a package having electrodes provided on the outer surface of opposing sidewalls, and a light-emitting element connected to the electrodes and mounted on the package; a base member having a copper metal; an insulating layer stacked on the surface of the base member and having an insulating material; and a conductive wiring pattern connected to the electrodes by soldering and formed on the surface of the insulating layer. The insulating layer has a through-hole formed by removing a part of the section where the package is positioned, and a heat dissipation unit formed by soldering between the back surface of the package and the base member, which face one another with the through-hole interposed therebetween.
US08866177B2
A microstructure for electroluminescent (EL) elements comprises a plurality of microconvexities having circular bottom surfaces. Each microconvexity is defined by a generatrix dropped from the peak to the circumference of the bottom surface. The height of the generatrix is monotonically reduced from the peak to the circumference. The height of the peak may be 0.67-1.15 times the radius of the bottom surface. The height of the convexities at a position on the radius of the bottom surface ¾ away from the center of the bottom surface may be 0.21-0.65 times the radius of the bottom surface. The height of the convexities at a position on the radius of the bottom surface 9/10 away from the center of the bottom surface may be 0.04-0.38 times the radius of the bottom surface.
US08866176B2
A structure of an EL display device which has an increased display area is provided. Further, a structure of an EL display device which has a high definition display is provided. An auxiliary electrode is formed over a first partition and side surfaces of the auxiliary electrode are covered with a second partition. A top surface of the auxiliary electrode is in contact with the conductive film which is one electrode of a light-emitting element and has a light-transmitting property, which enables a large-area display. Further, even the distance between the adjacent light-emitting elements is shortened, the auxiliary electrode can be provided between the adjacent light-emitting elements, which enables a high definition display.
US08866167B2
The present invention relates to a GaN based nitride based light emitting device improved in Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) tolerance (withstanding property) and a method for fabricating the same including a substrate and a V-shaped distortion structure made of an n-type nitride semiconductor layer, an active layer and a p-type nitride semiconductor layer on the substrate and formed with reference to the n-type nitride semiconductor layer.
US08866165B2
A light emitting apparatus includes a plurality of single crystal semiconductor thin films that emit light. The single crystal semiconductor thin films are secured in intimate contact to the surface of a substrate or a bonding layer formed on the substrate. A first conductive electrode is formed on the single crystal semiconductor thin film and is connected to a first conductive side metal layer. The first conductive side metal layer is closer to the surface of the substrate than a top surface of the single crystal semiconductor thin film. A second conductive electrode is formed on the single crystal semiconductor thin film. A second conductive side metal layer is connected to the second conductive electrode. The second conductive side metal layer is closer to the surface of the substrate than the top surface of the single crystal semiconductor thin film.
US08866164B2
A semiconductor light emitting device having a light emitting structure including at least one first conductive GaN based semiconductor layer, an active layer above the at least one first conductive GaN based semiconductor layer, and at least one second conductive GaN based semiconductor layer above the active layer, a plurality of patterns disposed from the at least one second conductive GaN based semiconductor layer through a portion of the at least one first conductive GaN based semiconductor layer, and an insulating member on the plurality of patterns. The plurality of patterns include a lower part contacting with the light emitting structure and a upper part contacting with the light emitting structure. A first base angle of the lower part is different from the second base angle of the upper part.
US08866162B2
A method of manufacturing an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display includes forming an upper electrode power source line outside of a pixel area over a substrate, forming a lower electrode in the pixel area, forming at least one layer of an organic material layer in the pixel area and areas outside of the pixel area, forming an upper electrode in the pixel area, selectively removing portions of the organic material layer that are exposed outside of the upper electrode, thereby exposing the upper electrode power source line, and coating a conductive material between the upper electrode and the upper electrode power source line in a normal pressure condition such that the conductive material overlaps the upper electrode and the upper electrode power source line, thereby forming a connection portion.
US08866158B2
A semiconductor device having a high withstand voltage in which a stable withstand voltage can be obtained and a method for manufacturing the same. A JTE region having a second conductivity type is formed in a port ion on an outer peripheral end side of an SiC substrate from a second conductivity type SiC region in a vicinal portion of a surface on one of sides in a thickness direction of a first conductivity type SiC epitaxial layer. A first conductivity type SiC region having a higher concentration of an impurity having the first conductivity type than that of the SiC epitaxial layer is formed in at least a vicinal portion of a surface on one of sides in a thickness direction of a portion in which the JTE regions are bonded to each other.
US08866156B2
A silicon carbide semiconductor device includes a silicon carbide substrate and a contact electrode. The silicon carbide substrate includes an n type region and a p type region that makes contact with the n type region. The contact electrode makes contact with the n type region and the p type region. The contact electrode contains Ni atoms and Si atoms. The number of the Ni atoms is not less than 87% and not more than 92% of the total number of the Ni atoms and the Si atoms. Accordingly, there can be provided a silicon carbide semiconductor device, which can achieve ohmic contact with an n type impurity region and can achieve a low contact resistance for a p type impurity region, as well as a method for manufacturing such a silicon carbide semiconductor device.
US08866152B2
An exemplary thinned-down betavoltaic device includes an N+ doped silicon carbide (SiC) substrate having a thickness between about 3 to 50 microns, an electrically conductive layer disposed immediately adjacent the bottom surface of the SiC substrate; an N− doped SiC epitaxial layer disposed immediately adjacent the top surface of the SiC substrate, a P+ doped SiC epitaxial layer disposed immediately adjacent the top surface of the N− doped SiC epitaxial layer, an ohmic conductive layer disposed immediately adjacent the top surface of the P+ doped SiC epitaxial layer, and a radioisotope layer disposed immediately adjacent the top surface of the ohmic conductive layer. The radioisotope layer can be 63Ni, 147Pm, or 3H. Devices can be stacked in parallel or series. Methods of making the devices are disclosed.
US08866144B2
An object of the present invention is to apply an insulating film of cure and high quality that is suitably applicable as gate insulating film and protective film to a technique that the insulating film is formed on the glass substrate under a temperature of strain point or lower, and to a semiconductor device realizing high efficiency and high reliability by using it. In a semiconductor device of the present invention, a gate insulating film of a field effect type transistor with channel length of from 0.35 to 2.5 μm in which a silicon nitride film is formed over a crystalline semiconductor film through a silicon oxide film, wherein the silicon nitride film contains hydrogen with the concentration of 1×1021/cm3 or less and has characteristic of an etching rate of 10 nm/min or less with respect to mixed solution containing an ammonium hydrogen fluoride (NH4HF2) of 7.13% and an ammonium fluoride (NH4F) of 15.4%.
US08866138B2
One embodiment of the present invention provides a highly reliably display device in which a high mobility is achieved in an oxide semiconductor. A first oxide component is formed over a base component. Crystal growth proceeds from a surface toward an inside of the first oxide component by a first heat treatment, so that a first oxide crystal component is formed in contact with at least part of the base component. A second oxide component is formed over the first oxide crystal component. Crystal growth is performed by a second heat treatment using the first oxide crystal component as a seed, so that a second oxide crystal component is formed. Thus, a stacked oxide material is formed. A transistor with a high mobility is formed using the stacked oxide material and a driver circuit is formed using the transistor.
US08866133B2
A display device includes, on a substrate, light emitting elements each formed by sequentially stacking a first electrode layer, an organic layer including a light emission layer, and a second electrode layer and arranged in first and second directions which cross each other, a drive circuit including drive elements that drive light emitting elements, and a wiring extending in the first direction, and an insulating layer disposed in a gap region sandwiched by the light emitting elements neighboring in the second direction and having a recess or a projection. The wiring is disposed in an overlap region overlapping with the recess or the projection in the insulating layer in a thickness direction, in the gap region, and the second electrode layers in the light emitting elements neighboring in the second direction are separated from each other by the recess or the projection in the insulating layer.
US08866121B2
A current-limiting layer and a current-reducing layer are incorporated into a resistive switching memory device to form memory arrays. The incorporated current-limiting layer reduces the occurrence of current spikes during the programming of the resistive switching memory device and the incorporated current-reducing layer minimizes the overall current levels that can flow through the resistive switching memory device. Together, the two incorporated layers help improve device performance and lifetime.
US08866118B2
A nonvolatile memory device contains a resistive switching memory element with improved device switching performance and life and methods for forming the same. The nonvolatile memory device has a first layer on a substrate, a resistive switching layer on the first layer, and a second layer. The resistive switching layer is disposed between the first layer and the second layer and the resistive switching layer comprises a material having the same morphology as the top surface of the first layer. A method of forming a nonvolatile memory element in a ReRAM device includes forming a resistive switching layer on a first layer and forming a second layer, so that the resistive switching layer is disposed between the first layer and the second layer. The resistive switching layer comprises a material formed with the same morphology as the top surface of the first layer.
US08866102B2
An electron beam device 100 includes: a beam emitter 102 for emitting a primary electron beam 101; an objective electron lens 127 for focusing the primary electron beam 101 onto a specimen 130, the objective lens defining an optical axis 126; a beam tilting arrangement 103 configured to direct the primary electron beam 101 to the electron lens 127 at an adjustable offset from the optical axis 126 such that the objective electron lens 127 directs the electron beam 101 to strike the specimen 130 at an adjustable oblique beam landing angle, whereby a chromatic aberration is caused; a beam separator 115 having a first dispersion for separating a signal electron beam 135 from the primary electron beam 101; and a dispersion compensation element 104 adapted to adjust a compensation dispersion of the primary electron beam 101 so as to compensate for a beam aberration resulting from the first dispersion and from the chromatic aberration.
US08866098B2
An object is to prevent occurrence of an insensitive zone to radiation in parallel arrangement of multiple units. This radiation detecting unit 1 is provided with a PD array 5 including a plurality of PD elements 13 arrayed opposite to a scintillator 3 and output electrode pads 23 arrayed corresponding to the PD elements 13, integrated circuits 7 for processing signals from the PD elements 13, a flexible substrate 9 for mounting of the PD array 5 and integrated circuits 7, and a radiation shield plate 11 provided opposite to the PD array 5 with the flexible substrate 9 in between and formed so that ends thereof 11a are located inside the PD array 5; the output electrode pads 23 have an array pitch made shorter than that of PD elements 13; the flexible substrate 9 is folded along the ends 11a at intermediate regions A3 between mounting regions of the PD array 5 and integrated circuits 7, whereby the integrated circuits 7 are arranged on the opposite side to the PD elements 13 with the radiation shield plate 11 in between.
US08866097B2
A gamma ray detector apparatus comprises a solid state detector that includes a plurality of anode pixels and at least one cathode. The solid state detector is configured for receiving gamma rays during an interaction and inducing a signal in an anode pixel and in a cathode. An anode pixel readout circuit is coupled to the plurality of anode pixels and is configured to read out and process the induced signal in the anode pixel and provide triggering and addressing information. A waveform sampling circuit is coupled to the at least one cathode and configured to read out and process the induced signal in the cathode and determine energy of the interaction, timing of the interaction, and depth of interaction.
US08866096B2
A radiographic image photographing system and its control device surely correlates radiographing order information with radiographic image data and facilitates radiographing work. A control section of a tag reader reads out inherent information stored in a tag in a radiation image detecting device. A control section of a radiographing operation apparatus receives the inherent information of the radiation image detecting device from the tag and stores it in a storing section. In response to an input from an input operation section, the control section correlates each piece of radiographing order information with a cassette ID of the radiation image detecting device and stores this correlation information in the storing section.
US08866093B2
In a method of manufacturing a detection device including a plurality of pixels arrayed on a substrate, the pixels each including a switch element and a conversion element including an impurity semiconductor layer disposed on an electrode, which is disposed above the switch element, which is isolated per pixel, and which is made of a transparent conductive oxide joined to the switch element, and further including an interlayer insulating layer, which is made of an organic material, which is disposed between the switch elements and the electrodes, and which covers the switch elements, the method includes insulating members each made of an inorganic material and disposed to cover the interlayer insulating layer between adjacent two of the electrodes in contact with the interlayer insulating layer, and forming an impurity semiconductor film covering the insulating members and the electrodes and becoming the impurity semiconductor layer.
US08866083B2
An optical smoke detector (10) is provided that comprises a light source (154), a light receiver (172), and a control circuit (130) for controlling operation of the detector. The control circuit (130) is configured to apply an unregulated voltage to the light source to cause it to emit light, to monitor the current through said light source (154) so as to monitor the light emitted by said light source (154); and to monitor the current generated by light received by said light receiver (172) so as to monitor the light received by said light receiver (172). The control circuit (130) generates a ratio signal representative of the ratio of the monitored currents; and compares the ratio signal with a reference value and generate a smoke detection signal in dependence thereon.
US08866074B2
An ion trap is provided between a collision cell and a time-of-flight mass separator. During a time period in which precursor ions derived from the same compound are selected with a quadrupole mass filter, a collision energy is changed from one to another. Various product ions that are produced by dissociation respectively under collision energies of the plurality of stages and precursor ions that are not dissociated are temporarily trapped in the ion trap, and are ejected in a packet form in the state where these ions are mixed, and are introduced into the time-of-flight mass separator 6 to be subjected to a mass spectrometry. Thereby, in a data processing unit, one MS/MS spectrum in which product ions produced in various dissociation modes under various CID conditions appear is created.
US08866069B1
An improved gamma controller health detection assembly to facilitate reliable downhole measurement of naturally occurring radiation is disclosed. The gamma controller assembly includes one or more gamma sensors, a micro-controller, memory, and input/output ports among other components. The gamma sensors detect radiation and output pulses that are received by the microcontroller. The sensor data can be checked, selected, and averaged by the microcontroller, and sent uphole to another microcontroller or computer that can then further process, communicate, and display the data. The sensor data can be averaged and stored to memory or stored as independent values to memory. The gamma controller health detection assembly can be configured to run algorithms that detect if one or more gamma sensors appear to be malfunctioning or have previously malfunctioned.
US08866067B2
An imaging device includes a circuit board having a wiring line formed as part of an upper surface thereof; an electronic component mounted on the circuit board; a frame body mounted on the circuit board so as to surround the electronic component, and having connection electrodes formed on or above an upper surface thereof and external terminals formed on or above at least one of a side surface and a lower surface thereof which are electrically connected to the connection electrodes; an imaging element having a light-receiving section located in a central portion of an upper surface thereof, the imaging element being mounted on the upper surface of the frame body so as to cover an opening of the frame body; and a lens barrel having a lens, which is bonded to an outer periphery of the upper surface of the frame body so as to cover the imaging element.
US08866064B2
A proximity sensor with multi-directional movement detection is provided. The proximity sensor may include an ASIC chip; at least three light sources configured to emit light in a particular sequence; and a photo detector configured to receive light and generate an output signal. The multi-directional proximity sensor may have a first proximity sensor with at least one side surface and a second proximity sensor connected to the first proximity sensor configured to detect object movement over a plane substantially parallel to the at least one side surface of the first proximity sensor. The multi-directional movement detection proximity sensor may include a PCB, in which more than one proximity sensor may be disposed on the PCB and operatively integrated to detect multi-directional movement.
US08866061B2
An image capturing unit includes: a glass substrate having a first surface and a second surface on an opposite side to the first surface, with a first wiring pattern being provided upon at least the first surface; an image sensor that is electrically connected to the first wiring pattern, and that is mounted upon the first surface of the glass substrate; and a piezoelectric element that is disposed upon the first surface or upon the second surface, and that is electrically connected to the first wiring pattern.
US08866056B2
A multi-component packaging system includes a lower containing assembly, an upper containing assembly, and a cover. The lower containing assembly defines an interior cavity that is adapted to receive a first food component. The upper containing assembly defines an interior that is adapted to receive a second food component. The upper containing assembly is adapted for engagement with the lower containing assembly. The cover is engaged with at least one of the lower containing assembly and the upper containing assembly. The cover includes a passage portion that defines a plurality of apertures.
US08866045B2
A system, in one embodiment, may include a portable welder having a welding output, a charging output, a welding circuit coupled to the welding output; and a charging circuit coupled to the charging output. The charging circuit may be configured to automatically adjust power to the charging output based on a feedback associated with charging a battery.
US08866041B2
A manufacturing method of laser diode unit of the present invention includes steps: placing a laser diode on top of a solder member formed on a mounting surface of a submount, applying a pressing load to the laser diode and pressing the laser diode against the solder member, next, melting the solder member by heating the solder member at a temperature higher than a melting point of the solder member while the pressing load is being applied, and thereafter, bonding the laser diode to the submount by cooling and solidifying the solder member, thereafter, removing the pressing load, and softening the solidified solder member by heating the solder member at a temperature lower than the melting point of the solder member after the pressing load has been removed, and thereafter cooling and re-solidifying the solder member.
US08866038B2
A component for a plasma arc torch includes a body portion, a tapered surface on the body portion, the tapered surface including a compressible member that provides a disengagement force relative to the body portion, and an axially disposed surface on the body portion for coupling a mating surface on an adjacent structure of the torch. The component can be a nozzle and/or an electrode.
US08866035B2
A triaxial driving device for electrodischarge machine tools having a three-liners-axes mechanism and an electrode tool and has a connecting mount, a first axial rotator, a base, a supporting arm, a second axial rotator, a third axial rotator and an electrode holder. The connecting mount is connected securely to the three-liners-axes mechanism. The first axial rotator is mounted in the connecting mount and has a rotating head. The base is connected securely to the rotating head of the first axial rotator and has a space. The supporting arm is rotatably mounted in the space of the base and has a connecting frame. The second axial rotator is securely connected to the base and the supporting arm and has a rotating head. The third axial rotator is connected to the supporting arm and has a rotating head. The electrode holder is connected to the third axial rotator and the electrode tool.
US08866033B2
An electronic device includes a case and a key module. The key module is mounted on a supporting surface of a housing of the case and includes: a touch pad, a circuit board, a press switch and a transmission member. The press switch is coupled electrically to the circuit board and is disposed at a position corresponding to the middle of the touch pad in a lengthwise direction. The transmission member is mounted between the circuit board and the supporting surface, and includes two levers and a press member disposed between the levers and abutting against the press switch. A corresponding electrical signal can be produced by abutment of the press member against the press switch linked by the transmission member.
US08866028B2
A combination weighing device and an operating method thereof are disclosed. The device comprises N material treating units, a mainboard, chutes (10, 11, 16, 17) and discharging hoppers (12, 13, 14), wherein the material treating units are used for receiving materials, outputting the weight value of materials and discharging materials according to the discharging control signal from the mainboard; the mainboard is used for selecting materials by combinatorial calculation based on the present-period weight value during every period and outputting the discharging control signal to weighing hoppers (7); the chutes (10, 11, 16, 17) are used for collecting the materials through a discharging route, discharging the materials to the discharging hoppers (12, 13, 14), after a discharging route is determined; the discharging hoppers (12, 13, 14) are used to separately collect materials discharged from the chutes (10, 11, 16, 17) during the same weighing period and send the materials to a packing machine; each material treating unit comprises a linear vibrator (5), a feed hopper (6), a weighing hopper (7), a weighing sensor used to weigh the materials in the weighing hopper (7), a processor and a A/D converter which is connected with the weighing sensor and the processor, N material treating units are connected with the mainboard signal together by two data receiving and delivering communication converters of the mainboard.
US08866016B2
A Polymer Composition comprising at least one unsaturated polymer, and optionally a crosslinking agent.
US08866009B2
A structure having: a molecule of carboxymethyl amylose (CMA) in a super-helical conformation; cyanine molecules on the exterior surface of the CMA arranged in a J-aggregate formation; and a chromophore molecule in the interior space of the CMA.
US08865993B2
A musical composition processing system may include a storage device for storing reference musical compositions, an energy level characteristic value for each reference musical composition, and an attribute profile for each reference musical composition, and a computing device in communication with the storage device and for processing an input musical composition. The processing of the input musical composition may include determining an attribute profile for the input musical composition based upon transient and ambient sounds in the input musical composition, and determining an energy level characteristic data value for the input musical composition by correlating the attribute profile of the input musical composition to the respective attribute profiles and the energy level characteristic data values of the reference musical compositions.
US08865980B1
A novel maize variety designated X03C270 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing hybrid maize variety X03C270 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X03C270 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X03C270, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X03C270. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X03C270.
US08865975B1
A novel canola variety designated NS6207 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a canola plant that comprise crossing canola variety NS6207 with another canola plant. Methods for producing a canola plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into NS6207 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the canola seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid canola seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the canola variety NS6207 or a locus conversion of NS6207 with another canola variety.
US08865974B1
A novel canola variety designated NS6162 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a canola plant that comprise crossing canola variety NS6162 with another canola plant. Methods for producing a canola plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into NS6162 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the canola seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid canola seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the canola variety NS6162 or a locus conversion of NS6162 with another canola variety.
US08865957B2
A method for controlling the production of heavy compounds in the production of alpha-methyl styrene is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes providing a first composition to a distillation column, said first composition comprising acetone, phenol, cumene and alpha-methyl styrene; refining the first composition in the distillation column to produce a second composition comprising at least 1 wt. % alpha-methyl styrene and at least one organic acid, wherein the second composition includes a higher weight percentage of alpha-methyl styrene than the first composition; and adding an amine to the second composition.
US08865950B2
An olefin hydration process and reactor are provided, wherein an integrated membrane selectively removes alcohol product from the reactor, thereby allowing for increased yields.
US08865947B2
The present invention is directed to a process for preparation of fluorinated alcohols of Formula (I) RfCH2CH2OH (I) by contacting a fluorinated iodide with an alkyl vinyl ether in the presence of an initiator and a base to generate an intermediate hemi-acetal or aldehyde or a mixture thereof, followed by hydrogenation of the hemi-acetal of Formula (II) RfCH2CH(OCxH2x+1)m(OH)p (II) or aldehyde of Formula (III) RfCH2CHO (III) or a mixture thereof, to yield a compound of Formula (I).
US08865942B2
A method for producing high-purity 2-cyanophenylboronic acid, characterized by reacting benzonitrile, lithium 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidide, and trialkoxyborane, adding an aqueous acidic solution to a reaction solution containing the obtained 2-cyanophenylboronic acid, carrying out a contact treatment at a pH of below 7 in the presence of a water-immiscible organic solvent, and then obtaining the 2-cyanophenylboronic acid from the organic layer.
US08865926B2
Embodiments of the invention are directed to the preparation of a discrete cyclosiloxane or a discrete mixture of cyclosiloxanes where a dihydroxysilane or dihydroxysiloxane condenses with a dihydrosilane or dihydroxysiloxane in the presence of a Lewis acid catalyst in a reaction phase including a solvent. The introduction of the dihydroxysilane or dihydroxysiloxane and dihydrosilane or dihydroxysiloxane is controlled such that the cyclocondensation occurs in a reaction phase that is dilute in the SiH and SiOH functionality permitting the isolation of the monocyclocondensation adduct in high yield with little higher molecular weight condensation products. In one embodiment of the invention 1,1-diphenyl-3,3,5,5-tetramethylcyclotrisiloxane is prepared in very high yield.
US08865922B2
A method of treating tall oil pitch, which comprises sterol esters of fatty acids. According to the present invention, the esters of sterols and fatty acids are broken down, in which case especially formic acid esters or acetic acid esters of sterols are formed instead. The free fatty acids and sterol esters generated are distilled or separated in another way. Use of the present invention increases the yield of fatty acids and also facilitates the separation of sterols from tall oil pitch.
US08865920B2
Provided herein are processes for the preparation of N-acylated amines. In particular, the processes comprise contacting an amine with an acid comprising a carboxylic acid group to form the N-acylated amine.
US08865914B2
The invention provides fluorescent sensors for the selective detection of a metal such as copper. The sensors may be considered to be derivatives of cyanine, fluorescein, rhodamine, rhodol, Tokyo green, or BODIPY. The sensors find particular use in detecting copper in cells and living animals.
US08865907B2
The present invention provides a pyrone derivative and a pyridone derivative, which are novel intermediates for synthesizing an anti-influenza drug, a method of producing the same, and a method of using the same.
US08865905B2
A compound of formula IV: wherein R1, R2, and R3 are, independently at each occurrence, a C1-C20 aliphatic radical, a C3-C20 aromatic radical, or a C3-C20 cycloaliphatic radical; Ar is heteroaryl, aryl, alkyl or cycloalkyl; b and c are, independently at each occurrence, an integer ranging from 0-4; a is an integer ranging from 0-3; and n is an integer ranging from 2 to 4.
US08865903B2
A continuous process for the alkylation of tertiary amines and, in particular, to a continuous process for the quaternization of cyclic tertiary amines useful for the preparation of cyclic quaternary ammonium salts with high purity is described.
US08865901B2
Compounds are described that are useful for treating an apoptosis-associated disease, which are specifically cytotoxic to tumor cells that are overexpressing Bcl-xL, and are much less cytotoxic in isogenic cells that are not overexpressing Bcl-xL. Also described is a method for treating an apoptosis-associated disease in a subject in need thereof, comprising administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of an active compound that is specifically cytotoxic to tumor cells that are overexpressing Bcl-xL, and are much less cytotoxic in isogenic cells that are not overexpressing Bcl-xL. Several scaffolds of active compounds are described.
US08865898B2
A nucleoside analog and a salt thereof represented by any of the general formulae (1) to (10) below: wherein R1, R2, and R3 are the same or different groups, and each of the R1, R2 and R3 is selected from a hydrogen atom, a protecting group for a functional group in nucleic acid synthesis, a phosphate group, a phosphate group protected by a protecting group in nucleic acid synthesis, and an activated phosphate group for solid phase synthesis; and Ar is one of an aromatic hydrocarbon group and a polyaromatic hydrocarbon group.
US08865894B2
The present invention relates to oxazolidin-2-one substituted pyrimidine compounds that act as PI3K (phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase) inhibitors, as well as pharmaceutical compositions thereof, methods for their manufacture and uses for the treatment of conditions, diseases and disorders dependent on PI3K.
US08865889B2
The invention is a method for efficiently preparing alkali cellulose having a uniform alkali distribution therein. More specifically, the invention is a method for preparing alkali cellulose comprising steps of bringing pulp into continuous contact with an alkali metal hydroxide solution in a rotary feeder type contactor to generate a contact mixture, and draining the contact mixture; and a method for preparing cellulose ether comprising use of the alkali cellulose thus prepared; an apparatus for preparing alkali cellulose, comprising a rotary feeder comprising a cyclic housing comprising an inlet port and an outlet port, a cyclic contact drum being circularly rotatable along the housing in the housing and comprising a plurality of filter cells arranged in a circumferential direction, and a filtrate-discharging tube being disposed in a diameter direction inside of the cyclic contact drum and collecting the filtrate which has passed the filter, and a drainer for draining a cake discharged from the contactor.
US08865884B2
Antisense compounds, compositions and methods are provided for modulating the expression of kinesin-like 1. The compositions comprise antisense compounds, particularly antisense oligonucleotides, targeted to nucleic acids encoding kinesin-like 1. Methods of using these compounds for modulation of kinesin-like 1 expression and for treatment of diseases associated with expression of kinesin-like 1 are provided.
US08865880B2
The present disclosure relates to Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome, nucleic acids encoding the BHD gene, and methods of using the nucleic acids and proteins encoded thereby. In particular, the present disclosure relates to methods of diagnosing BHD disease and related conditions, such as spontaneous pneumothorax and kidney cancer, and methods of treating BHD skin lesions.
US08865876B2
Engineered lectins and methods of using such reagents for both preventing and treating a broad array of viral infections are provided. The lectins of the invention are engineered in two ways, first through the enhancement of the natural mode of action of lectins against viruses through linked multimerization, and second through the creation of a new class of reagents, hereinafter referred to as a “lectibody” or “lectibodies”, that engage host immune function in addition to simply binding glycosylated viral proteins via the combination of a lectin and the Fc region of an antibody in order to drive Fc-mediated effector functions including ADCC (antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity), increased half-life, complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC), and antibody-dependent cell-mediated phagocytosis (ADCP) in response to a lectin-mediated carbohydrate-binding event.
US08865863B2
The invention relates to a method for producing peptoidic, peptidic and chimeric peptidic-peptoidic dendrimers by multiple iterative multi-component reactions (MCR), in particular Ugi or Passerini multi-component reactions, to compounds produced in this way and to the use thereof.
US08865858B2
The present invention relates to a process for producing a composite material composed of a) at least one oxidic phase and b) an organic polymer phase. The copolymerization of at least one compound of the formula I [(ArO)mMOnRrHp]q (I) in which M is B, Al, Ga, In, Si, Ge, Sn, P, As or Sb, Ar is phenyl or naphthyl, R is alkyl, alkenyl, cycloalkyl or aryl, where aryl is unsubstituted or may have one or more substituents, with formaldehyde or formaldehyde equivalents, in a reaction medium which is essentially anhydrous, to obtain a composite material having an arrangement of phase domains similar to those nanocomposite materials obtainable by twin polymerization, and to the use of the composite material for production of gas storage materials, rubber mixtures, low-K dielectrics and electrode materials for lithium ion batteries.
US08865847B2
Olefin polymerization is carried out with a single site polymerization catalyst in the presence of a continuity additive. The continuity additive is a cocktail containing one or more dialkanolamide derived from a fatty acid, an oil soluble sulfonic acid and a dialkanolamine.
US08865846B2
Disclosed herein are polymerization processes for the production of olefin polymers. These polymerization processes can use a dual catalyst system containing a zirconium or hafnium based metallocene compound and a titanium based half-metallocene compound containing an indenyl group.
US08865834B2
A novel adhesive composition suitable for composing multilayered coatings onto large, industrial equipment such as pipeline tubes is devised. The composition is a blend based on a polyethylene which determines the blend's favorable properties, which polyethylene itself can be used further in coating cables and for producing moldings, especially rotomoulded articles.
US08865830B2
The present disclosure provides aqueous silicone emulsions of a “resin-linear” organosiloxane block copolymers. The present disclosure further provides a process for making these emulsions by forming a mixture of an organosiloxane block copolymer, admixing a sufficient amount of water to the mixture from to form an emulsion, and optionally further shear mixing the emulsion. The present invention further relates to the cured and/or coating compositions prepared from the present emulsions.
US08865823B2
A poly(phenylene ether)-poly(hydroxy ether)-poly(phenylene ether) (PPE-PHE-PPE) triblock copolymer is formed by reaction of a monohydroxy-terminated poly(phenylene ether) with a diepoxy-terminated poly(hydroxy ether) in the presence of a base. The PPE-PHE-PPE triblock copolymer is useful as a compatibilizer in blends of polar polymers and non-polar polymers. The PPE-PHE-PPE triblock copolymer is also useful as a compatibilizer for non-polar polymers and polar fillers.
US08865820B2
A fluorine-containing curable composition which is less viscous, and which can produce a cured article having excellent heat resistance, chemical resistance, solvent resistance, and mechanical strength is provided. The fluorine-containing curable composition comprises (a) 100 parts by weight of a straight chain fluorine-containing polymer having at least two alkenyl groups per molecule represented by the following formula (1): said polymer having a number average molecular weight of 1,000 to 100,000; (b) a fluorine-containing organosilicon compound having at least 2 hydrogen atoms bonded to the silicon atom per molecule at an amount such that molar ratio of hydrosilyl group (SiH group) in the component (b) to the alkenyl group in the component (a) is in the range of 0.4 to 5.0; (c) a catalytic amount of a hydrosilylation catalyst; and (d) 1 to 100 parts by weight of a silica filler.
US08865818B2
Aqueous dispersions which comprise nanoscale ZnO particles and nanoscale particles of a non-ZnO metal oxide, semimetal oxide or oxo salt are used in aqueous binder systems, such as coating materials, adhesives, sealants and binders, to improve the solvent resistance of the dried or cured binder system, and to improve other properties.
US08865806B2
The invention relates to the field of plasticizers, compounds used as additives in polymers for facilitating the transformation thereof or modifying the mechanical properties thereof, especially rigidity.
US08865799B2
The present invention provides a process for making silica-filled rubber masterbatch using silica hydrophobated with a trimethoxy silane coupling agent that is soluble in an alcohol-water solution containing at least about 70 wt % water. One embodiment uses a mixture of trimethoxy silanes, one or more of which react with rubber to bond the silica to the rubber, and one or more of which do not react with rubber, but do hydrophobate the silica. Hydrophobated silica is mixed with latex polymer and incorporated into rubber during coagulation of the latex, which is preferably coagulated with calcium chloride. The present invention further provides a process for making the trimethoxy silane coupling agents. Preferred trimethoxy silane coupling agents include bis-(3-trimethoxysilylpropyl)-disulfide and bis-(3-trimethoxysilylpropyl)-tetrasulfide. Rubber products, particularly tires, compounded with the inventive silica masterbatch can be processed for a long time before scorching because the silica masterbatch provides a long scorch time.
US08865787B2
The present invention relates to a photocurable silicone gel composition includes: (A) an organopolysiloxane having at least one group represented by the following general formula (1): in which R1 and R2 each represent hydrogen or an alkyl group having a carbon number of 1 to 20, in an amount of 100 parts by mass; (B) a mercaptoalkyl group-containing organopolysiloxane in an amount of parts by mass such that the number of moles of the mercaptoalkyl group is 0.01 to 1.0 mole per 1 mole of the group represented by the general formula (1) in the component (A); (C) a photopolymerization initiator in an amount of 0.01 to 20 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the component (A); and (D) a hindered amine compound having a group represented by the following general formula (2): in which R3 to R6 each represent hydrogen or an alkyl group having a carbon number of 1 to 20, and R7 represents hydrogen or —CH2—R8 in which R8 represents hydrogen or a monovalent organic group, in an amount of 0.001 to 10 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the component (A):
US08865782B2
A fire-resistant polyurethane foam is provided. A hydroxyl-containing inorganic fire retardant is premixed with a polyisocyanate and a polyol, respectively, to form two premixtures. Then, the two premixtures are mixed for reaction to form a fire-resistant polyurethane foam. Preferably, a combination of different particle sizes of the fire retardant is employed to maximize the amount of the fire retardant and increase the fire resistance of the foam.
US08865778B2
A controlled release excipient composition suitable in formulation of a slow or extended release tablet, contains a synergistic mixture of substantially uncross-linked carboxymethyl starch, or sodium starch glycolate (SSG), and a hydrophilic, non-ionic cellulose ether, preferably hydroxypropylmethylcellulose. Whether or not a SSG in the mixture is sufficiently uncross-linked in the context of the invention can be determined by sedimentation: 0.25 g of the formulation in 100 ml deionized water after 24 hours at 25° C., if subjected to centrifugation at 6080 G at 25° C. for 15 minutes, should exhibit a sedimentation volume of more than 60 ml.
US08865776B2
The use of low molecular weight amino alcohols in ophthalmic compositions is described. These compounds have been found to enhance the efficacy of anti-microbial preservatives.
US08865774B2
The present invention provides methods of treating a human or other mammal infected with a parasitic microorganism by administering an effective amount in unit dosage form of a C8-C16-alpha, beta-unsaturated aliphatic aldehyde, such as trans-2-dodecenal, to the human or other mammal. The parasitic microorganisms may include trypanosomes, bacteria, fungi and nematodes.
US08865772B2
A method for treating skin cancer including the steps of applying an isothiocyanate functional surfactant to an area affected by skin cancer, wherein the isothiocyanate functional surfactant comprises at least one isothiocyanate functional group associated with an aliphatic and/or aromatic carbon atom of the isothiocyanate functional surfactant.
US08865769B2
The present invention relates to combinations and methods for the treatment of neurological disorders related to glutamate excitotoxicity and Amyloid β toxicity. More specifically, the present invention relates to novel combinatorial therapies of Multiple Sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, Alzheimer's disease related disorder, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, neuropathic pain, alcoholic neuropathy, alcoholism or alcohol withdrawal, or spinal cord injury, based on Baclofen and Acamprosate combination.
US08865768B2
Psoriasis is a common, chronic, inflammatory skin disorder. This invention provides the use of a compound of formula (I) R—CO—X (Wherein R is a C16-24 unsaturated hydrocarbon group optionally interrupted by α, β, γ, or δ to the carbonyl group by a heteroatom or group of heteroatoms selected from S, O, N, SO, SO2 said hydrocarbon group comprising at least 5 non-conjugated double bonds; and X is an electron withdrawing group) in the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of psoriasis.
US08865765B2
A method for treating eczema including the steps of applying an isothiocyanate functional surfactant to an area affected by eczema, wherein the isothiocyanate functional surfactant comprises at least one isothiocyanate functional group associated with an aliphatic and/or aromatic carbon atom of the isothiocyanate functional surfactant.
US08865757B1
Therapeutic compositions comprising at least two substituted imidazole or imidazolium compounds may be used for a number of medical purposes, such as treatment of undesirable conditions or diseases, including disease or conditions related to bone, cancer, and/or pain.
US08865755B2
In one aspect, the invention relates to compounds having the formula: wherein: Ar, r, Z, X, R3, and R5-7 are as defined in the specification, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. These compounds have AT1 receptor antagonist activity and neprilysin inhibition activity. In another aspect, the invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds; methods of using such compounds; and process and intermediates for preparing such compounds.
US08865743B2
Compositions, systems and methods for administration of small volume sufentanil drug dosage forms to the sublingual mucosa of a subject for treatment of pain using a device are disclosed.
US08865740B2
Methods for preventing, ameliorating, or reducing dermatological signs of aging are provided which employ active agents that suppress or down-regulate microRNA expression in dermal fibroblast, resulting in enhanced production of collagen, elastin and/or fibrillin in the skin. Also provided are methods for screening for activity against specific microRNAs and the methods of using active agents identified by the screening protocol in the treatment of skin.
US08865735B2
The present invention provides solid forms of the compound of formula 1 and pharmaceutical uses thereof.
US08865730B2
Polymorphs of (S)-2-(1-(9H-purin-6-ylamino)propyl)-5-fluoro-3-phenylquinazolin-4(3H)-one, compositions thereof, methods for their preparation, and methods for their use are disclosed.
US08865722B2
The invention encompasses wet granulation pharmaceutical compositions of aripiprazole, methods of making tablets from the compositions, and tablets of the wet granulation pharmaceutical composition.
US08865720B2
This invention comprises the novel compounds of formula (I) wherein n, m, t, R1, R2, R3, R4, L, Q, X, Y, Z and have defined meanings, having histone deacetylase inhibiting enzymatic activity; their preparation, compositions containing them and their use as a medicine.
US08865716B2
The present invention relates to spiroheterocycl-dihydropyrimidines, their use as modulators of γ-secretase and to pharmaceutical compositions containing said compounds. In particular, the present invention relates to compounds which interfere with γ-secretase and/or its substrate and therefore modulate the formation of Aβ peptides.
US08865714B2
This invention relates to a piperazine compound represented by Formula (I), wherein R1 is C1-6 alkyl; R2 is hydroxy, C1-6 alkyl that may have one or more substituents, —(C═O)—N(R3)(R4), or —(C═O)—OR5; R3 and R4 are the same or different, and each represents hydrogen or C1-6 alkyl that may have one or more substituents, or R3 and R4, taken together with a nitrogen atom to which R3 and R4 are attached, may form a saturated heterocyclic group; R5 is hydrogen or C1-6 alkyl that may have one or more substituents; and n is 1 or 2; or a salt thereof.
US08865705B2
Benzimidazoles having inhibitory activity on RSV replication and having the formula the prodrugs, N-oxides, addition salts, quaternary amines, metal complexes and stereochemically isomeric forms thereof, compositions containing these compounds as active ingredient and processes for preparing these compounds and compositions.
US08865700B2
Methods for preventing, ameliorating, or reducing dermatological signs of aging are provided which employ cosmetic composition comprising novel active agents that enhance collagen production in the skin.
US08865695B2
Provided herein are steroid containing compositions suitable for providing therapeutically effective amounts of at least one steroid to individuals. Also provided herein are compositions comprising testosterone and/or testosterone derivatives suitable for providing therapeutically effective and safe amounts of testosterone over periods of time. Further provided are methods of treating andro- and/or testosterone deficiency in individuals by administering to the individuals compositions described herein.
US08865682B2
The present invention relates to organic molecules capable of modulating tyrosine kinase signal transduction in order to regulate, modulate and/or inhibit abnormal cell proliferation.
US08865679B2
The present invention provides a means to broadly protect the military and the public from injury from biological warfare weapons, particularly infective agents such as anthrax. Beta (1,3)-glucans, particularly whole glucan particles, PGG-Glucan, and microparticulate glucan, provide general immune enhancement, thereby increasing the body's ability to defend against a wide variety of biological threats. Beta (1,3)-glucans have been shown to increase the resistance to infection by anthrax and other infectious organisms when administered before and after infection. The anti-infective mechanism of β(1,3)-glucan appears to involve stimulation of the innate immune system through increased cytokine release and CR3 receptor activation. Beta (1,3)-glucan is pharmaceutically stable, relatively compact, and can also be used without significant side effects. Beta (1,3)-glucan can also enhance the effectiveness of other medical countermeasures such as antibiotics, vaccines, and immune antibodies.
US08865678B2
Universal sensory structurants and compositions comprising the same are described. The universal sensory structurants comprise polysaccharide carbohydrate having at least about 75% by weight amylopectin and the polysaccharide carbohydrate has been treated and swollen with a solvent comprising hydroxylated polymer comprising less than about 100 silane repeat units.
US08865659B2
This invention is for the compound containing ginsenoside Rg3 as an active ingredient to prevent and treat Hepatitis C virus infection. Specifically, the ginsenoside Rg3 of this invention demonstrated the predominant antiviral activities and apotosis actions in a dose-dependent manner in the Hepatitis C virus infected cells (Huh 7.5.1). Confirmed that it reduces the levels of TNF-α and thioredoxin significantly, and increases phospho-NFκB. It also demonstrated same effectiveness as PegInterferone alpha-2b(PegIFN a-2b, Hepatitis C therapeutics), and has no cytotoxicity to human bodies. Thus, it may be used safely as an active ingredient of medical/pharmaceutical and health food compounds for preventing or treating Hepatitis C.
US08865655B2
A compound of the general Structure (VII) or (VIII) including isoteres and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein R1, R2 (where X=—CONR6—), R3 and R7 are the same or different and each represents an amino-acid side chain moiety; R2 (where X=—CHZ—), R4 and R6 are the same or different and each represents hydrogen, C1-C6 alkyl, C2-C6 alkenyl, or C2-C6 alkynyl; K represents a linear or branched chain of carbon atoms and containing 1-10 atoms; L represents a moiety capable of chelating zinc in the active site of a histone deacetylase (HDAC) or of conversion to such a moiety in vivo (by hydrolysis or reduction, for example); M is a linear or branched chain of carbon or other atoms and containing 1-10 atoms, and capable of undergoing in vivo cleavage to give Structure (VII); and Z is a heteroatom bonded to the macrocycle by a single or double bond, and any other group bonded to Z is H or a protecting group.
US08865654B2
An eyedrop containing a peptide having an amino acid sequence represented by Ser-Ser-Ser-Arg (“SSSR”), or a pharmacologically acceptable salt thereof; and a peptide having an amino acid sequence represented by Phe-Gly-Leu-Met-NH2 (“FGLM”), or a pharmacologically acceptable salt thereof. The concentration ratio between SSSR or a pharmacologically acceptable salt thereof and FGLM or a pharmacologically acceptable salt thereof is between 1/15 and 1/50. The concentration of SSSR or a pharmacologically acceptable salt thereof is between 0.001% and 0.3% (w/v) and the concentration of FGLM or a pharmacologically acceptable salt thereof is between 0.015% and 1.5% (w/V). The pH of the eye drop is maintained between 2.5 and 6.5.
US08865650B2
A method for enhancing glycemic control and/or insulin sensitivity in a human subject having diabetic nephropathy and/or metabolic syndrome comprises administering to the subject a selective endothelin A (ETA) receptor antagonist in a glycemic control and/or insulin sensitivity enhancing effective amount. A method for treating a complex of comorbidities in an elderly diabetic human subject comprises administering to the subject a selective ETA receptor antagonist in combination or as adjunctive therapy with at least one additional agent that is (i) other than a selective ETA receptor antagonist and (ii) effective in treatment of diabetes and/or at least one of said comorbidities other than hypertension. A therapeutic combination useful in such a method comprises a selective ETA receptor antagonist and at least one antidiabetic, anti-obesity or antidyslipidemic agent other than a selective ETA receptor antagonist.
US08865648B2
Methods are disclosed for determining progression of a condition, onset of a condition, or efficacy of treatment of a condition characterized by an adipocyte imbalance in a patient. In addition, methods are disclosed of treating diabetes, abnormal adipocyte activity, and insulin resistance using monomeric, homodimeric, and heterodimeric forms of certain C-terminal fragments of adiponectin receptor. In addition, methods of treating abnormal adipocyte activity, treating metabolic syndrome, causing insulin secretion, increasing insulin levels, inhibiting insulin degradation enzyme, treating Alzheimer's disease, treating cardiovascular disease associated with adiponectin levels, inhibiting ADAM-17 enzyme, inhibiting a protease, treating a condition associated with TNF-alpha, and treating a condition associated with HER2-neu are disclosed. Compositions, dosage forms, and kits are also disclosed.
US08865640B2
A composition comprising an esterquat that is a quaternized reaction product of an alkanol amine and a fatty acid having a ratio of fatty acid to alkanol amine of 1.5 to 1.75, wherein 45 to 75% by weight of the fatty acids are saturated. Also, a method of softening a fabric and increasing fragrance delivery comprising treating the fabric with the composition.
US08865637B2
The present invention relates to variant lysozymes. The present invention also relates to polynucleotides encoding the variant lysozymes and to nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotide.
US08865629B2
The invention relates to techniques for the rapid screening of suitable translational fusion partners (TFPs) capable of inducing secretory production of recombinant proteins, especially proteins that are difficult to produce using conventional recombinant production methods.
US08865625B2
A herbicidal concentrate composition comprising a mixture of the monomethylamine and dimethylamine salts of at least one picolinic acid herbicide of formula (Ia): wherein X2 is selected from hydrogen and amino.
US08865620B2
The present invention provides heat-sensitive coating compositions, which comprise a color developer of formula (1) or mixtures thereof wherein R1 can be hydrogen, C1-20-alkyl, C3-8-cycloalkyl, C2-10-alkenyl, aryl or SO3H, and R2 and R3 can be the same or different and can be hydrogen, halogen, C1-20-alkyl, C3-8-cyclo-alkyl, C2-10-alkenyl, aryl, OR6, NR7R8, SR9, SO3H or COOR10 and R4 and R5 can be the same or different, and can be hydrogen, halogen, C1-20-alkyl, C3-8-cyclo-alkyl, C2-10-alkenyl, aryl, OR6, NR7R8 or SR9, R6, R7, R8, R9 and R10 can be the same or different and can be hydrogen, C1-30-alkyl, C3-8-cycloalkyl, C2-10-alkenyl or aryl, wherein C1-20-alkyl can be unsubstituted or substituted with one or more C3-8-cycloalkyl, C2-10-alkenyl, phenyl, halogen, OR11, NR12R13, SR14, SO3H or COOR15, and aryl can be unsubstituted or substituted with one or more halogen, C1-10-alkyl, halogenated C1-10-alkyl, C3-8-cycloalkyl C2-10-alkenyl, phenyl, OR11, NR12R13, SR14, SO3H or COOR15, wherein R11, R12, R13, R14 and R15 can be the same or different and can be hydrogen, C1-10-alkyl, C3-8-cycloalkyl or C2-10-alkenyl, a process for the preparation of these compositions, a process of coating substrates with these compositions, substrates coated with these compositions, a process for preparing marked substrates using these compositions, marked substrates obtainable by the latter process, and certain color developers.
US08865619B2
A method is provided for storing hydrogen in a macroporous monolithic material by the heterogeneous nucleation of a metal hydride. A composite material is provided for storing hydrogen directly obtained by the method. A method is also provided for employing the material for the production of dihydrogen, as well as a method for producing dihydrogen using such a composite material.
US08865618B2
A carbon or ceramic monolithic materials with an M2 (macroporous/microporous) hierarchised porous structure is provided as well as method for preparing said materials using a macro/meso/microporous silica cavity. Such materials may be used, in particular for the production of hydrogen purifiers, supercapacitors or electrodes, or else for carrying out catalysed chemical reactions in a heterogeneous phase.
US08865609B2
The present invention relates to catalysts, to processes for making catalysts and to chemical processes employing such catalysts. The catalysts are preferably used for converting acetic acid to ethanol. The catalyst comprises a precious metal and one or more active metals on a modified support. The modified support may comprise cobalt tungstate.
US08865589B2
According to one embodiment, a semiconductor device includes a plurality of wires arranged in parallel at a predetermined pitch, a plurality at first contacts that are each connected to an odd-numbered wire among the wires and are arranged in parallel in an orthogonal direction with respect to a wiring direction of the wires, and a plurality of second contacts that are each connected to an even-numbered wire among the wires and are arranged in parallel in an orthogonal direction with respect to the wiring direction of the wires in such a way as to be offset from the first contacts in the wiring direction of the wires, in which the first contacts are offset from the second contacts by a pitch of the wires in an orthogonal direction with respect to the wiring direction of the wires.
US08865587B2
Some exemplary embodiments of a multi-chip semiconductor package utilizing a semiconductor substrate and related method for making such a semiconductor package have been disclosed. One exemplary embodiment comprises a first semiconductor device including, on a surface thereof, a first patterned dielectric layer, a conductive redistribution layer, a second patterned dielectric layer, and a second semiconductor device. The conductive redistribution layer connects to a first and a second patterned conductive attach material for connecting the first and second semiconductor devices to provide coplanar electrical connections for mounting on a printed circuit board. In one embodiment, the first semiconductor device is a diode having anode and cathode contacts on an upper surface thereof, and the second semiconductor device is an IGBT.
US08865586B2
A method includes forming a polymer layer over a metal pad, forming an opening in the polymer layer to expose a portion of the metal pad, and forming an under-bump-metallurgy (UBM). The UBM includes a portion extending into the opening to electrically couple to the metal pad.
US08865584B2
A semiconductor device of the present invention has a purpose to form a structure of preventing outflow of solder at low costs. A semiconductor element is bonded to a substrate through a solder layer. An outflow-preventing part is provided to surround the solder layer to prevent solder outflow during soldering. The outflow-preventing part is formed by a cold spray method and has a surface in an oxidized state.
US08865577B2
A method for making epitaxial structure is provided. The method includes providing a substrate having an epitaxial growth surface, growing a buffer layer on the epitaxial growth surface; placing a graphene layer on the buffer layer; epitaxially growing an epitaxial layer on the buffer layer; and removing the substrate. The graphene layer includes a number of apertures to expose a part of the buffer layer. The epitaxial layer is grown from the exposed part of the buffer layer and through the apertures.
US08865571B2
A method for manipulating dislocations from a semiconductor device includes directing a light-emitting beam locally onto a surface portion of a semiconductor body that includes active regions of the semiconductor device and manipulating a plurality of dislocations located proximate to the surface portion of the semiconductor body utilizing the light-emitting beam. Manipulating the plurality of dislocations includes directly scanning the plurality of dislocations with the light-emitting beam to manipulate a location of each of the plurality of dislocations on the surface portion of the semiconductor body by adjusting a temperature of the surface portion of the semiconductor body corresponding to the plurality of dislocations and adjusting a scan speed of the a light-emitting beam.
US08865569B2
A method and apparatus for dividing a thin film device having a first layer which is a lower electrode layer, a second layer which is an active layer and a third layer which is an upper electrode layer, the layers each being continuous over the device, into separate cells which are electrically interconnected in series. The dividing of the cells and the electrical connection between adjacent cells are carried out in a single pass of a process head across the device, the process head performing the following steps in the single pass: a) making a first cut through the first, second and third layers; b) making a second cut through the second and third layers, the second cut being adjacent to the first cut; c) making a third cut through the third layer the third cut being adjacent to the second cut and on the opposite side of the second cut to the first cut; d) using a first ink jet print head to deposit a non-conducting material into the first cut; and e) using a second ink jet print head to apply conducting material to bridge the non-conducting material in the first cut and either fully or partially fill the second cut such to form an electrical connection between the first layer and the third layer, wherein step (a) precedes step (d), step (d) precedes step (e) and step (b) precedes step (e), (otherwise the steps may be carried out in any order in the single pass of the process head across the device). The process head may comprise a first part above the device and a second part beneath the device, at least one of the cuts being formed by a laser beam from the second part of the process head. The thin film device may be a solar panel, a lighting panel or a battery.
US08865564B2
A process is provided for producing at least one interconnecting well to achieve a conductive pathway between at least two connection layers of a component comprising a stack of at least one first substrate and one second substrate which are electrically insulated from one another, the process including defining a surface contact region of a surface connection layer over a surface of the stack and of at least one first contact region embedded in the stack starting from a first embedded connection layer of the first substrate. A region devoid of material is positioned between the first substrate and second substrates and which comprises a stage of producing a interconnecting well which passes through the second substrate and extends between the surface contact region and the first embedded contact region and passes through the region devoid of material, and also a first layer which covers the first embedded connection layer.
US08865548B2
A method of making a non-volatile double-gate memory cell. The gate of the control transistor is formed with a relief of a semiconductor material on a substrate. The control gate of the memory transistor is formed with a sidewall of the relief of a semiconductor material configured to store electrical charge. A first layer is deposited so as to cover the stack of layers. The first layer is etched so as to form a first pattern juxtaposed on the relief. A second layer is formed on the first pattern. The second layer is etched so as to form on the first pattern a second pattern having a substantially plane upper face.
US08865540B2
A method for forming a Schottky diode including forming first and second trenches in a semiconductor layer, forming a thin dielectric layer lining sidewalls of the first and second trenches; forming a trench conductor layer in the first and second trenches where the trench conductor layer fills a portion of each of the first and second trenches and being the only one trench conductor layer in the first and second trenches; forming a first dielectric layer in the first and second trenches to fill the remaining portions of the first and second trenches; and forming a Schottky metal layer on a top surface of the lightly doped semiconductor layer between the first trench and the second trench to form a Schottky junction. The Schottky diode is formed with the Schottky metal layer as the anode and the lightly doped semiconductor layer between the first and second trenches as the cathode.
US08865537B2
A differential port and a method of arranging the differential port are described. The method includes arranging a first electrode to receive a drive signal, and arranging a second electrode to receive a guard signal, the guard signal having a different phase than the drive signal and the first electrode and the second electrode having a gap therebetween. The method also includes disposing a signal line from the first electrode to drive a radio frequency (RF) device.
US08865535B2
Disclosed herein are techniques for fabricating a 3D stacked memory device having word line (WL) select gates. The bodies of the WL select gates may be formed from the same material (e.g., highly doped polysilicon) that the word lines are formed. Desired doping profiles in a body of a WL select gate may be achieved by various techniques such as counter-doping. The WL select gates may include TFTs that formed by etching holes in the layer in which word lines are formed. Gate electrodes and gate dielectrics may be formed in the holes. Bodies may be formed in the polysilicon outside of the holes.
US08865520B2
The present invention provides a temporary carrier bonding and detaching process. A first surface of a semiconductor wafer is mounted on a first carrier by a first adhesive layer, and a first isolation coating disposed between the first adhesive layer and the first carrier. Then, a second carrier is mounted on the second surface of the semiconductor wafer. The first carrier is detached. Then, the first surface of the semiconductor wafer is mounted on a film frame. The second carrier is detached. The method of the present invention utilizes the second carrier to support and protect the semiconductor wafer, after which the first carrier is detached. Therefore, the semiconductor wafer will not be damaged or broken, thereby improving the yield rate of the semiconductor process. Furthermore, the simplicity of the detaching method for the first carrier allows for improvement in efficiency of the semiconductor process.
US08865517B2
The present invention provides a method for manufacturing thin-film transistor active device and a thin-film transistor active device manufactured with the method. The method includes providing a substrate; forming a gate terminal on the substrate through sputtering and masking operations; forming a gate insulation layer on the gate terminal through CVD; forming an oxide semiconductor layer on the gate insulation layer through sputtering and masking operations; forming a first protection layer on the oxide semiconductor layer through CVD, forming a metal layer on the first protection layer through sputtering, and forming a data line electrode through masking operation; forming a second protection layer on the first protection layer and the data line electrode through CVD and forming first, second, and third bridging holes through masking operation; forming a transparent conductive layer on the second protection layer through sputtering and patternizing the transparent conductive layer through masking operation.
US08865515B2
A method for fabricating a graphene thin film by reducing graphene oxide and a method for fabricating an optoelectronic device using the same are provided. The method for fabricating a graphene thin film includes preparing graphene oxide; preparing graphene through reducing the graphene oxide by a sulfonyl hydrazide-based reducing agent; preparing a graphene dispersed solution by dispersing the graphene into an organic solvent; and fabricating a graphene thin film by applying the graphene dispersed solution. The sulfonyl hydrazide-based reducing agent may be a compound having a sulfonyl hydrazide substituent of Chemical Formula 1 in the present disclosure in which A may be any one in Chemical Formula 2 in the present disclosure.
US08865512B2
Thin-film solar cells of the CIGS-type use two integrally formed buffer layers, a first ALD Zn(O,S) buffer layer on top of the CIGS-layer and a second ALD ZnO-buffer layer on top of the first buffer layer. Both buffer layers are deposited in the same process step using ALD (atom layer deposition). The technology also relates to a method of producing the cell and a process line for manufacturing of the cell structure.
US08865510B2
A solar cell is manufactured, which includes: a solar cell substrate including a semiconductor substrate, a p-type surface and an n-type surface exposed on a first principal surface, and a texture structure in a second principal surface; a p-side electrode disposed on the p-type surface; an n-side electrode disposed on the n-type surface; and an insulation layer formed on the first principal surface and isolating the p-side electrode and the n-side electrode from each other. The manufacturing method of the solar cell includes: forming an insulation film covering the first principal surface; forming the texture structure in the second principal surface; and removing part of the insulation film, thereby forming the insulation layer.
US08865506B1
A method for fabricating a solar cell commences by bonding a first metal-coated substrate to a second metal-coated substrate to provide a bonded substrate. The bonded substrate is then coated with a first precursor solution to provide a coated bonded substrate. Finally, the procedure de-bonds the coated bonded substrate to provide a first solar cell device and a second solar cell device. A system for fabricating the solar cell comprises a first precursor solution deposition system containing a first precursor solution for deposition on a substrate, a first heating element for heating the substrate after deposition of the first precursor solution, a second precursor solution deposition system containing a second precursor solution for deposition on the substrate, and a second heating element for heating the substrate after deposition of the second precursor solution.
US08865504B2
A method for patterning an article, the article comprising a first layer of a first material, a first major surface of the first layer being in intimate contact with some or all of a first major surface of a second layer of a second different material the method comprising providing a first thread carrying a first species to remove at least a portion of the first layer, and providing a second thread aligned with and adjacent the first thread and contacting the first and second threads with the first layer to remove at least part of the first layer.
US08865500B2
A method of fabricating a MEMS microphone includes: first providing a substrate having a first surface and a second surface. The substrate is divided into a logic region and a MEMS region. The first surface of the substrate is etched to form a plurality of first trenches in the MEMS region. An STI material is then formed in the plurality of first trenches. Subsequently, the second surface of the substrate is etched to form a second trench in the MEMS region, wherein the second trench connects with each of the first trenches. Finally, the STI material in the first trenches is removed.
US08865496B2
A method for fabricating an image panel for a hyperspectral camera that is configured to scan a scene and obtain spectral image data over as defined range of wavelengths. At least one companion sensor is first fabricated on a planar imaging surface of a silicon die. At least as region of the silicon die is then back thinned to a diffraction thickness that is suitable for a diffraction slit. A diffraction slit is then formed in the thinned region so that the diffraction slit penetrates the silicon die in the thinned region, and the diffraction slit is co-planar with the imaging surface of the silicon die.
US08865490B2
A method for producing a light-emitting diode device includes a step of preparing a sealing layer by sealing in a light-emitting diode with a sealing material; a step of preparing a fluorescent layer by allowing a phosphor-containing resin composition containing phosphor and silicone resin to reach its B-stage; and a step of bonding the fluorescent layer to the surface of the sealing layer.
US08865483B2
Provided is a substrate processing apparatus in which flexibility of disposing a device configured to determine a holding state of a substrate and the flexibility of timing of determining the holding state are enhanced. The substrate processing apparatus includes a light projector configured to radiate detection light toward a region where a substrate may exist when the substrate is held by a substrate holding member and a light receiver configured to receive the detection light radiated from the light projector. A light path of the detection light from the light projector toward the light receiver passes a substrate surrounding member installed around the substrate held by the substrate holding member. The detection light penetrates the substrate surrounding member and has a wavelength which does not penetrate the substrate.
US08865482B2
A method of detecting the circular uniformity of semiconductor circular contact holes. Several detection circuit structures are disposed on the semiconductor wafer: N-type active regions and P-type active regions; silicon dioxide layers separate the N-type active regions from the P-type active regions; the N-type active regions are formed in the P well and the P-type active regions are formed in the N well; polysilicon gates bridge the N-type active regions and the P-type active regions; gate oxide layers insulate the P-type regions and the N-type regions from the polysilicon gates, so that the P-type regions and the N-type regions are independent; the N-type active regions connect with circular contact holes while the P-type active regions and the polysilicon gates connect with oval contact holes; a electron beam scanner detects the circular uniformity of the contact holes. This invention advantageously reflects effectively and comprehensively the circular uniformity of the contact holes.
US08865479B2
Screening assays and methods of performing such assays are provided. In certain examples, the assays and methods may be designed to determine whether or not two or more species can associate with each other. In some examples, the assays and methods may be used to determine if a known antigen binds to an unknown monoclonal antibody.
US08865477B2
A novel quantum dot capable of near infrared emissions at wavelengths of 750-1100 is made by forming solid solutions of metal sulfide, metal selenide or metal sulfide selenide by incorporating a suitable amount of an additional metallic element or elements to provide an emission wavelength in the range of 750 nm to 1100 nm. The quantum dots may be enabled for bioconjugation and may be used in a method for tissue imaging and analyte detection.
US08865472B2
An analyzing device mixes a sample liquid with a reagent by rotation of the analyzing device about a rotation center to generate a centrifugal force. A measurement cell is formed so as to extend in a direction along which the centrifugal force is applied, and a capillary area to which the sample liquid is sucked by a capillary force is formed on one of the side walls of the measurement cell, the side walls being arranged in a rotational direction. The capillary area extends from the outer periphery position to the inner periphery of the measurement cell, thereby reducing the size of the analyzing device. Further, the sample liquid in the measurement cell is sucked to the capillary area by slowing or stopping a rotation, and then the rotation is accelerated to return the sample liquid in the capillary area to the measurement cell.
US08865467B2
The present invention is based on the discovery that a single lentiviral vector expressing multiple individual transcription factor proteins from a single multi-cistronic mRNA can reprogram a fibroblast cell to a stem cell-like cell. These reprogrammed induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells are pluripotent. Additions of the Cre-LoxP sequences into the single lentiviral vector facilitate excision of the vector after reprogramming in achieved. Addition of a maker gene into the single lentiviral vector facilitates detection of the presence of the vector in an iPS. The invention provides compositions and methods of producing iPS cells using a single multi-cistronic lentiviral vector.
US08865465B2
Synthetic cell culture surfaces, including a hydrophobe modified cellulose or an hydroxylated acrylate polymer composition and optionally including a silica source, cell culture coating and cell culture articles incorporating the composition, and methods of making and using the articles for cell culture, as defined herein.
US08865462B2
A sustained culture of isolated avian gonocytes is provided, as well as a method of making and using the same. A chimeric avian containing an isolated gonocyte and a transgenic avian produced using the chimeric avian are also provided. The cell and method may be employed to make, among other things, transgenic avian that produce a heterologous protein, e.g., a therapeutic protein.
US08865457B2
Devices and systems for active thermal control of sample holding devices for bDNA testing, polymerase chain reaction testing, chemiluminescent immuno-assay testing, and so forth. The thermal control subsystem includes a fluidic circuit, first and second heater assemblies, a centrifugal pump, and a heat exchange device. The first and second heater assemblies include a heat removal device and a controllable thermo-electric device. One or both of the heater assemblies can include a heat spreader. A controller actively controls the pump, the heat removal device, and the thermo-electric devices, to thermally-control sample-containing vessels retained in the holding device.
US08865455B2
An apparatus for investigating a molecule comprising a channel provided in a substrate, a metallic moiety capable of plasmon resonance which is associated with the channel in a position suitable for the electromagnetic field produced by the metallic moiety to interact with a molecule passing therethrough, means to induce a molecule to pass through the channel, means to induce surface plasmon resonance in the metallic moiety; and means to detect interaction between the electromagnetic field produced by the metallic moiety and a molecule passing through the channel. Methods of investigating molecules are also provided.
US08865450B2
The present invention relates to a method for production of continuous cell lines comprising providing living cells of an animal or a human, irradiating said cells with UV light, proliferating said cells and selecting multiplying cells as cells of a continuous cell line.
US08865429B2
Transgenic oleaginous yeast having increased oil content comprising increased Yap1 transcription factor activity, wherein the increased oil content is compared to the oil content of a non-transgenic oleaginous yeast, are described herein. The increased Yap1 transcription factor activity results from overexpressing a Yap1 transcription factor, by increasing the interaction between the transcription factor and a protein that is capable of activating the transcription factor, or by a combination thereof. Methods of using these yeast strains are also described.
US08865418B2
An immunoanalytical system in which, after a sample such as a patient's serum is subjected to a pretreatment by an immunological pretreatment device, the sample is subjected to light detection by an immunological photometric detection system. Subsequently, the mass spectrometric pretreatment device performs a pretreatment, and the mass spectrometric detection system performs mass spectrometry. The mass spectrometric detection system performs mass spectrometry on components contained in a supernatant. A signal intensity and peak area for each of components are calculated from an obtained chromatograph. A quantitative value measured based on the immunoanalytical method is calculated for each of the components on the basis of the relative ratios of the components.
US08865417B2
The present invention provides assays for detecting and measuring the presence or level of anti-TNFα drug therapeutics and autoantibodies in a sample. The present invention is useful for optimizing therapy and monitoring patients receiving anti-TNFα drug therapeutics to detect the presence or level of autoantibodies (e.g., HACA and/or HAHA) against the drug.
US08865413B2
The present invention provides a method for diagnosing and detecting diseases associated with pancreas. The present invention provides one or more proteins or fragments thereof, peptides or nucleic acid molecules differentially expressed in pancreatic diseases (PCAT) and antibodies binds to PCAT. The present invention provides that PCAT is used as targets for screening agents that modulates the PCAT activities. Further, the present invention provides methods for treating diseases associated with pancreas.
US08865405B2
The invention relates to methods for isolating and/or identifying nucleic acids. The invention also provides kits for isolating and/or identifying nucleic acids.
US08865390B2
A negative pattern is formed by coating a resist composition comprising a polymer comprising recurring units of acid labile group-substituted vinyl alcohol and maleic anhydride and/or maleimide, an acid generator, and an organic solvent onto a substrate, prebaking, exposing to high-energy radiation, and developing in an organic solvent developer such that the unexposed region of resist film is dissolved away and the exposed region of resist film is not dissolved. In image formation via positive/negative reversal by organic solvent development, the resist film is characterized by a high dissolution contrast between the unexposed and exposed regions.
US08865389B2
Provided is an actinic-ray- or radiation-sensitive resin composition, including a resin comprising a repeating unit (A), the a repeating unit (A) containing a structural moiety (S1) that when acted on by an acid, is decomposed to thereby generate an alkali-soluble group and a structural moiety (S2) that when acted on by an alkali developer, is decomposed to thereby increase its rate of dissolution in the alkali developer, and a repeating unit (B) that when exposed to actinic rays or radiation, generates an acid.
US08865388B2
Disclosed is an decolorizable electrophotographic toner, containing a binder resin, an electron-donating color-developable agent, and a wax having a color-developing action and having an acid value of 60 mgKOH/g or more.
US08865381B2
An electrophotographic photosensitive member is provided in which both a long-term potential variation and a short-term potential variation are suppressed, a method for producing the electrophotographic photosensitive member, and a process cartridge and an electrophotographic apparatus each having the electrophotographic photosensitive member are also provided. An intermediate layer of the electrophotographic photosensitive member is formed by applying a coating liquid for the intermediate layer, which contains an organic resin and a rutile-type acidic titania sol containing tin, and drying the applied coating liquid.
US08865368B2
A novel electrode that can be used at high temperature in air, a fuel cell using the material, and a method of manufacture of the same are provided. The electrode material containing a component expressed by La1-sAsNi1-x-y-zCuxFeyBzO3-δ (wherein, A and B are at least one element independently selected from the group consisting of alkaline earth metals, transition metals excluding Fe, Ni and Cu, and rare earths excluding La, and x>0, y>0, x+y+z<1, 0≦s≦0.05, and 0≦z≦0.05) exhibits relatively high conductivity at high temperature, and has the advantage of combination with other materials in relation to coefficient of thermal expansion.
US08865353B2
A nonaqueous electrolytic solution of an electrolyte salt dissolved in a nonaqueous solvent, containing a hydantoin compound represented by the following general formula (I) in an amount of from 0.01 to 5% by mass of the nonaqueous electrolytic solution, and excellent in battery characteristics such as high-temperature storage property and cycle property. (In the formula, R1 and R2 each represent a methyl group or an ethyl group; R3 and R4 each represent a hydrogen atom, a methyl group or an ethyl group.)
US08865351B2
A method for fabricating a porous carbon material possessing a hierarchical porosity, the method comprising subjecting a precursor composition to a curing step followed by a carbonization step, the precursor composition comprising: (i) a templating component comprised of a block copolymer, (ii) a phenolic component, (iii) a dione component in which carbonyl groups are adjacent, and (iv) an acidic component, wherein said carbonization step comprises heating the precursor composition at a carbonizing temperature for sufficient time to convert the precursor composition to a carbon material possessing a hierarchical porosity comprised of mesopores and macropores. Also described are the resulting hierarchical porous carbon material, a capacitive deionization device in which the porous carbon material is incorporated, as well as methods for desalinating water by use of said capacitive deionization device.
US08865350B2
A nonaqueous electrolyte battery is provided and includes a positive electrode, a negative electrode having a negative electrode active material layer containing a negative electrode active material, a separator disposed between the positive electrode and the negative electrode, and a non-fluid electrolyte. The non-fluid electrolyte contains an electrolyte salt, a nonaqueous solvent, an orthoester compound represented by the following formula (1), and at least one member selected from the group consisting of cyclic carbonate compounds represented by the following formula (2) to (5). A volume viscosity of the negative electrode active material layer is 1.50 g/cc or more and not more than 1.75 g/cc, and a specific surface area of the negative electrode active material is 0.8 m2/g or more and not more than 4.0 m2/g
US08865345B1
Various methods, systems, and apparatus for implementing aspects of the use of alloy anodes in three-dimensional lithium-ion batteries are disclosed, while accounting for volume change that occurs in these alloy anodes during charging and discharging. A three-dimensional lithium-ion battery according to certain embodiments comprises a battery enclosure, and an anode protruding from a first surface within the enclosure, with the anode having a first state and an expanded state, where the volume occupied by said anode is larger in the expanded state than in the first state. A first cathode is separated from the anode along a first direction, and a second cathode is separated from the anode along a second direction. A separator contacts the first cathode, the second cathode, and a portion of the anode. A gap is provided between the anode and the separator, the gap being larger in the first state than in the expanded state.
US08865343B2
A protection circuit module (PCM) assembly for use with a battery cell includes a base circuit board on which a plurality of electronic elements are mounted, and a first electrode output terminal formed on the base circuit board. The PCM assembly is to be coupled to a top portion of the battery cell and electrically connected to the first electrode lead and the second electrode lead. The first electrode output terminal is to be directly connected to a first terminal of an external device and to be electrically connected to an electrode terminal of the battery cell to form a first output stage. A second electrode lead at a side of the base circuit board is to be directly connected to a second terminal of the external device and is to be connected to the can or the cap plate to form a second output stage.
US08865341B2
Provided is a packaging material for electrochemical cells which has an identification mark that can be recognized from the outside and that is difficult to forge. The packaging material comprises a multilayer film which has a structure formed by laminating a base layer (11), an adhesive layer (13), a metal foil layer (12), an acid-modified polyolefin layer (14), and a heat-sealable layer (15) in this order, wherein the base layer (11) comprises both a oriented polyester film (11b) and a oriented nylon film (11e) with a printed layer (11c) provided on the surface of the oriented polyester film (11b) that faces the oriented nylon film (11e).
US08865335B2
An electrochemical storage cell is disclosed that comprises a cathode sheet, an anode sheet, and a separator sheet between the cathode and anode sheets. A metal foil current collector extends from a longitudinal edge of the cathode sheet. A further metal foil current collector extends from a longitudinal edge of the anode sheet. The anode sheet, cathode sheet, and separator sheet are wound in a flattened coil shape to produce a core in which the metal foil current collector of the cathode sheet extends beyond the separator sheet at one end of the core and the metal current collector of the anode sheet extends beyond the separator sheet at an opposite end of the core. Overlying layers of the metal foil current collector of the cathode sheet are compressed together and placed in electrical communication with a positive terminal of the cell while overlying layers of the metal foil current collector of the anode sheet are compressed together and placed in electrical communication a negative terminal of the cell.
US08865327B2
A perpendicular magnetic disk that includes, on a base, a soft magnetic layer, an amorphous alloy layer, a preliminary ground layer provided on the amorphous alloy layer, a ground layer formed of Ru or a Ru-type alloy having an hcp crystal structure provided on the preliminary ground layer. A granular magnetic layer is provided on the ground layer. The amorphous alloy layer contains Ta, and the preliminary ground layer includes a first preliminary ground layer formed of Ti or a Ti alloy of microcrystals and a second preliminary ground layer formed of a Ni-type alloy of an fcc crystal structure.
US08865318B2
A composite wood product containing acetylated wood elements characterized by an average value in thickness swelling not exceeding 5% after subjection to 25 wet-dry/freeze-thaw cycles as described in Table II. Alternative characterizations include moduli of elasticity and rupture, and bending strength. A two stage process for the acetylation of wood elements is also described.
US08865311B2
A resin composition used to prepare a sheet-like prepreg by impregnating a substrate with the resin composition includes an epoxy resin that contains a naphthalene-modified epoxy resin, and a triazine-modified novolac resin. A sheet-like prepreg is formed by impregnating a substrate with the resin composition. A laminate formed using the prepreg exhibits excellent flame retardancy, solder heat resistance, and lead-free heat resistance, has a small coefficient of linear expansion in the thickness direction, and has excellent adhesion to a conductor circuit.
US08865307B2
This disclosure includes a process that unexpectedly can produce very inexpensive graphene, functionalized graphenes, and a new compound called graphenol in particulate or dispersions in solvents. The process can also produce graphene layers on metallic and nonmetallic substrates. Further, the graphenol, functionalized graphenes, and graphene can be utilized to form nanocomposites that yield property improvements exceeding anything reported previously.
US08865306B2
An intermediate transfer member that includes a fluorinated polyamic acid and a conductive component.
US08865303B2
A cool roofing system includes highly reflective calcined kaolin particles having a solar reflectance of 80% to 92%. When applied to a roofing substrate, the highly reflective kaolin particles produce a roofing system having a solar reflectance greater than or equal to 70%.
US08865301B2
A composition having nanoparticles of a refractory-metal boride and a carbonaceous matrix. The composition is not in the form of a powder. A composition comprising a metal component, boron, and an organic component. The metal component is nanoparticles or particles of a refractory metal or a refractory-metal compound capable of decomposing into refractory metal nanoparticles. The organic component is an organic compound having a char yield of at least 60% by weight or a thermoset made from the organic compound. A method of combining particles of a refractory metal or a refractory-metal compound capable of reacting or decomposing into refractory-metal nanoparticles, boron, and an organic compound having a char yield of at least 60% by weight to form a precursor mixture. A composition having nanoparticles of a refractory-metal boride that is not in the form of a powder.
US08865300B2
A curved bullet-proof composite comprising: a glass or glass-ceramic external strike-face layer having been subjected to an ion exchange process and which is mechanically curved; at least one glass or glass-ceramic intermediate layer; an internal plastic layer; and an adhesive material between the strike-face layer, the at least one intermediate layer and the internal plastic layer.
US08865299B2
The present invention provides a retardation film that comprises a) a first acrylic resin layer; and b) a second acrylic resin layer that is layered on at least one side of a) the first acrylic resin layer and comprises an acrylic resin and 1 to 20 parts by weight of rubber component based on 100 parts by weight of the acrylic resin. The retardation film according to the present invention has excellent optical transparency, haze, brittleness, mechanical strength, heat resistance, durability, and the like.
US08865292B2
A micro-channel structure for facilitating the distribution of a curable ink includes a substrate and a single cured layer formed on the substrate. The single cured layer has one or more micro-channels adapted to receive curable ink embossed therein and an RMS surface roughness between or within micro-channels of less than or equal to 0.2 microns. Cured ink is located in each micro-channel. The thickness of the single cured layer is in a range of about two microns to ten microns greater than the micro-channel thickness.
US08865290B2
A fastening clip assembly configured to securely fasten to a mounting stud of a panel includes a main clip and a tapered member, such as a tapered locking pin. The main clip may include a central column defining a central passage. The central column may include a ledge. The tapered locking pin integrally connects to the central column through at least one flash joint integrally connected to the main clip proximate the ledge. The said tapered locking pin is configured to move into the central passage in order to securely fasten the assembly to the mounting stud.
US08865288B2
A micro-needle array having tips disposed along a non-planar surface is formed by shaping the wafer surface into a non-planar surface to define the tips of the micro-needles. A plurality of trenches are cut into the wafer to form a plurality of columns having tops corresponding to the non-planar surface. The columns are rounded and sharpened by etching to form the micro-needles.
US08865287B2
A hybrid polymer composition and a method for forming it is provided, comprising a first part A comprising a polyurethane catalyst and an aldehyde resin pre-polymer and a second part B comprising a polyisocyanate pre-polymer and an aldehyde resin cure accelerator. Methods are also provided for forming a composite with a two part hybrid polymer composition and a fibrous web material.
US08865285B2
A panel having a central panel element formed of a composite material, having peripheral edges formed of a weldable material, such as steel. In one form, the panel element is rectangular, and the panel element on two of its opposite edges have a corrugated profile, while the other two of its opposite edges have a linear profile. Multiple panels may be joined together by welding at the peripheral edges, to form a secure container. The composite material of the panel element in some forms, includes intrusion sensors, for example including optical fiber pathways at electrically conductive pathways, as well as processors for effecting data transfer and analyzes and secure communications. In some embodiments, the electrically conductive pathways include one or more bypass resistors to produce a different circuit resistance upon interruption of one or more of the pathways.
US08865272B2
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a liquid crystal display is provided. The liquid crystal display includes an upper substrate, a lower substrate opposite to the upper substrate, and a liquid crystal layer disposed between the upper substrate and the lower substrate, wherein the liquid crystal layer includes a first chiral compound and a second chiral compound, and the first chiral compound and the second chiral compound are enantiomeric and separated from each other.
US08865249B2
The invention provides an implantable membrane for regulating the transport of analytes therethrough that includes a matrix including a first polymer; and a second polymer dispersed throughout the matrix, wherein the second polymer forms a network of microdomains which when hydrated are not observable using photomicroscopy at 400× magnification or less. In one aspect, the homogeneous membrane of the present invention has hydrophilic domains dispersed substantially throughout a hydrophobic matrix to provide an optimum balance between oxygen and glucose transport to an electrochemical glucose sensor.
US08865248B2
According to the invention there is provided a method of treating a component of a medicament dispenser device, the component having one or more surfaces which come into contact with the medicament during storage or use of the device, the method including the steps of: providing said component; and coating at least one of said surfaces by plasma deposition thereby to inhibit surface deposition or degradation of the medicament, wherein at least part of the plasma deposition is performed under DC bias control.
US08865246B2
Provided are: an oil or fat composition, which is capable of preventing the migration of oil or fat in a combined confectionery that comprises a combination of a chocolate with an oil or fat-based food material, has a good tolerance against cold blooming that is caused by the migration of oil or fat and softening of a chocolate, and enables the production of a chocolate having a high meltability in mouth; a chocolate using the oil or fat composition; and a combined confectionery using the chocolate.
US08865226B2
The present invention discloses a biocidal composition comprising hydrogen peroxide in a concentration of 0.05-50% (w/w) and a compound with a structure according to Formula 1: R—O—(CH(Y)—CH2—O)n—CH2—COOH, wherein R is an alkyl or alkenylene radical containing 6-12 carbon atoms, Y is H or CH3, and n is 3-10, in a concentration of 0.01-60% (w/w). An especially preferred compound according to Formula 1 is R is 6 or 8 and n is 3-8.
US08865225B2
A solid composition is provided herein comprising at least one hypothiocyanite salt (OSCN—) of a cation in an amorphous and/or crystalline powder form. Also provided herein are methods of making the composition and methods of treating various conditions, such as airborne infection, lower respiratory tract infection or upper respiratory tract infection.
US08865223B2
Nanoparticulate assemblies of isolated beta-casein, are useful for encapsulation of bioactive therapeutic substances, particularly therapeutic agents with poor bioavailability. These nano-sized beta-casein assemblies are preferably formed at pH values which are at least one or more pH units below or above the pI of the protein. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising the beta-casein micelles may be used to administer the agents to the GI tract for treatment of local or systemic conditions. These carriers are stable over a wide temperature range (optionally at least from about 1° C. to at least about 45° C.).
US08865211B2
Bioadhesive drug formulations that adhere to an oral mucosal membrane of a subject are provided together with single dose applicators and devices for delivering the drug formulations to the oral mucosa, and methods for using the same.
US08865210B2
Stable formulations of imidazolylalkyl-pyridines, including controlled-release formulations.
US08865208B2
Disclosed is a technique for allowing an active ingredient as an agent for improving or maintaining the dermal environment to reach a dermis. Specifically disclosed is a vesicle comprising the following components 1) to 3): 1) an α,ε-bis(γ-N—(C10-30)acylglutamyl)lysine and/or a salt thereof; 2) ceramide and/or a derivative thereof; and 3) one or more selected from a glycerin fatty acid ester, a polyglycerin fatty acid ester and a pyroglutamic acid glycerin fatty acid ester. The acyl group in the α,ε-bis(γ-N—(C10-30)acylglutamyl)lysine is preferably a lauroyl group. The ceramide or the derivative thereof is preferably ceramide type-2 or ceramide type-3. The vesicle can encapsulate an active ingredient. The vesicle can be contained in an external preparation for the skin.
US08865205B2
Swellable, coated sutures have a swellable polymeric coating and a fibrous component, wherein the coating is formed of an absorbable or non-absorbable polymer, while the fibrous component is formed of a synthetic absorbable or non-absorbable monofilament yarn, synthetic absorbable or non-absorbable braided multifilament yarn, braided silk multifilament yarn or combinations thereof. In certain instances, the coating is used as a carrier for the controlled delivery of different types of bioactive agents, including those having antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anesthetic, tissue growth-promoting, and antineoplastic activities.
US08865204B2
The present invention features a process for making a lozenge product including the steps of forming a powder blend containing an amorphous carbohydrate polymer into the desired shape of the lozenge product and applying radiofrequency energy to the shape for a sufficient period of time to soften or melt said amorphous carbohydrate polymer to fuse the shape into said lozenge product.
US08865194B1
Skin-protecting ointment compositions are disclosed that include a greasy material, a safe and minimally absorbed solid, and optionally, a phospholipid composition, and that exhibit reduced greasiness and tackiness relative to an otherwise identical composition lacking the safe and minimally absorbed solid and the optional phospholipid composition. Also disclosed are methods of making such skin-protecting ointment compositions. In one embodiment, the skin-protecting ointment composition comprises a safe and minimally absorbed solid, a lipid thickener, an ointment-like material, a volatile oil, and optionally a phospholipid composition. In another embodiment, the method of making the skin-protecting ointment composition comprises combining a greasy material and a safe and minimally absorbed solid, mixing the greasy material and the safe and minimally absorbed solid, optionally adding a phospholipid composition dissolved in a volatile oil, and cooling the combined composition to impede oxidation of the phospholipid composition.
US08865193B2
A polymer emulsion for use in a cosmetic composition includes an olefin copolymer; a copolymer of an acidic monomer to include acrylic acid, methacrylic acid or other unsaturated, carboxyl containing monomer; optionally, at least one stabilizing emulsifier; optionally, a resin selected from a group consisting of an acrylic resin and styrene-acrylic resin, said resin having an average molecular weight from about 500 to about 15,000 daltons; and, optionally, a polymer selected from a group consisting of oxidized polyethylene polymers and oxidized polypropylene polymers, said polymer modified with cationic end-groups such as tallow alkyl amines.
US08865189B2
Implantable medical devices including a coating having a bioactive agent and a poly(ester amide) polymer. Methods of forming these coatings are also described.
US08865182B2
The present invention provides replication competent adenoviral vectors capable of expressing antigens from infectious pathogens, such as influenza virus. The adenoviral vectors can be used to vaccinate subjects against the infectious pathogens. The adenoviral vectors comprise heterologous sequences encoding the antigens. The heterologous sequences can be inserted into various locations in the adenoviral vectors, including in or near specific E3 deletions and/or integrated into the adenoviral hexon coding region. The adenoviral vectors can be derived from any adenoviral serotype, particularly an Ad4 or Ad7 serotype.
US08865180B2
Compounds and methods are provided for diagnosing, preventing, treating and detecting leishmaniasis infection and stimulating immune responses in patients are disclosed. The compounds disclosed are include polypeptides and fusion proteins that contain at least one immunogenic portion of one or more Leishmania antigens, or a variant thereof. Additionally, methods of screening a screening library for tandem repeat proteins that have immunogenic properties are disclosed. Vaccines and pharmaceutical compositions comprising polynucleotides, polypeptides, fusion proteins and variants thereof that may be used for the prevention and therapy of leishmaniasis, as well as for the detection of Leishmaniasis infection are described.
US08865178B2
The present invention is related to the field of wound healing or tissue regeneration due to disease (i.e., for example, cardiovascular diseases, osetoarthritic diseases, or diabetes). In particular, the present invention provides compositions and methods comprising molecules with linked α-gal epitopes for induction of recruitment of macrophages localized within or surrounding damaged tissue. The recruited macrophages recruit stem cells and promote the repair and regeneration of the treated injured tissue. In some embodiments, the present invention provides treatments for tissue repair in normal subjects and in subjects having impaired healing capabilities, such as diabetic and aged subjects. In some embodiments, the present invention provides treatments for injured tissues such as brain, peripheral nerve, heart muscle, skeletal muscle, cartilage, bone, gastrointestinal tract and dysfunctional endocrine tissues.
US08865168B2
The present invention provides new systems and strategies for the regulation of iron metabolism in mammals. In particular, methods of using agonists and antagonists of TGF-β superfamily members to modulate the expression or activity of hepcidin, a key regulator of iron metabolism, are described. The inventive methods find applications in the treatment of diseases associated with iron overload, such as juvenile hemochromatosis and adult hemochromatosis, and in the treatment of diseases associated with iron deficiency, such as anemia of chronic disease and EPO resistant anemia in end-stage of renal disease. The present invention also relates to screening tools and methods for the development of novel drugs and therapies for treating iron metabolism disorders.
US08865166B2
Binding members, especially antibody molecules, for interleukin 17 (IL-17). The binding members are useful for the treatment of disorders associated with interleukin 17 such as rheumatoid arthritis.
US08865160B2
The present invention is directed to compositions and methods of preserving viability of islets of Langerhans for transplantation, and treating various diseases and other abnormal or pathological conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease, ischemic heart disease, acute lung injury, acute respiratory distress syndrome and radiation-induced brain injury, with DNA repair enzymes that are directed to the mitochondria.
US08865156B2
The invention provides compositions comprising one or more isolated LDH-deficient mutans streptococcus strains and one or more isolated S. oralis strains and/or one or more isolated S. uberis strains. Compositions of the invention are useful to maintain oral health, by for example treating and/or preventing one or more symptoms of dental caries, periodontitis and/or other oral cavity diseases or wounds.
US08865151B2
Described herein are MetAP-2 inhibitors and compositions and formulations thereof, and more particularly compositions and formulations of MetAP-2 inhibitors wherein the MetAP-2 inhibitor is associated with a block copolymer comprising a hydrophilic polymer moiety and a hydrophobic polymer moiety. The present invention also relates to compositions and formulations comprising MetAP-2 inhibitors for oral administration or administration via routes such as topical or ocular administration. The present invention also provides methods to treat conditions associated with or related to the over-expression or over-activity of MetAP-2 by administering the compositions and formulations comprising MetAP-2 inhibitors as disclosed herein.
US08865150B2
The present invention relates to pH-sensitive mucoadhesive film-forming gels and wax-film composites suitable for topical and mucosal delivery of molecules of interest, namely active pharmaceuticals. The gels comprise a pharmaceutically acceptable pH-sensitive polymer that responds to a lowering of pH by precipitating into films when in contact with the skin or mucosal surface. The films also comprise an adhesive polymer that allows the film to remain in contact with the tissue for an extended period of time. The wax-film composites comprise a bi-layer film having both the said pH-sensitive mucoadhesive layer to promote strong adherence to the skin and mucosal surfaces as well as a specially bonded wax layer intended to extend the adherence of the film to tissues for a prolonged period of time. The invention also relates to the use of said pH-sensitive film-forming gels and wax-film composites to deliver molecules of interest, such as small molecules, peptides, proteins, and nucleic acids either locally to act at the site of administration or for the absorption of said molecules of interest across biological membranes into the systemic circulation.
US08865134B2
Chewing gum comprising an extract from coffee enriched in at least one ester formed between a trans-cinnamic acid and quinic acid wherein the amount of said at least one ester in the gum is 0.1 to 50 wt %.
US08865131B2
The invention relates to a dye-containing preparation for use in ophthalmology and retinal surgery.
US08865128B2
A method of differentiating tumors from healthy cells in tissue is disclosed. The method includes the steps of providing a marker-folate conjugate, placing the marker-folate conjugate in contact with the tissue and viewing the tissue.
US08865126B2
The invention relates to compounds and methods for targeting radionuclide-based imaging agents to cells having receptors for a vitamin, or vitamin receptor binding derivative or analog thereof, by using such a vitamin as the targeting ligand for the imaging agent. The invention provides a compound of the formula for use in such methods. In the compound, V is a vitamin that is a substrate for receptor-mediated transmembrane transport in vivo, or a vitamin receptor binding derivative or analog thereof, L is a divalent linker, R is a side chain of an amino acid of the formula H2NCHRCOOH, M is a cation of a radionuclide, n is 1 or 0, K is 1 or 0, and the compound can be in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier therefor. The vitamin-based compounds can be used to target radionuclides to cells, such as a variety of tumor cell types, for use in diagnostic imaging of the targeted cells.
US08865122B2
A modular platform is provided for rapid preparation of various water-soluble prosthetic groups capable to efficiently introduce 18F into proteins with 18F labelling reagents.
US08865116B2
Disclosed is a method for preparing hematite iron oxide having various nanostructures, including: preparing a mixture solution by adding iron chloride and caffeine to a solvent and magnetically stirring; and performing hydrothermal synthesis, wherein the solvent is selected from water, ethanol, propanol and methanol. In accordance with the present disclosure, hematite iron oxide (α-Fe2O3) superstructures of various shapes, including grape, cube, dumbbell and microsphere shapes, can be synthesized in different solvents using caffeine. The shapes can be controlled variously via a simple one-step synthesis route without using a growth-inducing agent and without separation based on size. The prepared hematite iron oxide exhibits high coercivity at room temperature owing to its fine crystal structures and anisotropic shapes. The hematite iron oxide nanoparticles having different nanostructures prepared according to the present disclosure may be widely useful in biological and biochemical applications as a material having peroxidase mimic activity and thus capable of replacing natural enzymes.
US08865112B2
A process for multistage thermal treatment of rubber waste, in particular scrap tires, is proposed. The process comprises several steps of transferring a product granulate of rubber waste into three different sequencing heating zones of a reactor (10). In the heating zones (11a, 11b, 11c) the product granulate is heated at a first temperature between 100° to 200° C., preferably 150° to 180° C., then at a second temperature between 200° to 350° C. and at a third temperature between 300° to 600° C. The temperature is maintained until such time that no further oil is emitted within the respective heating zone. As a final step, the product granulate is removed from the reactor (10) and the desirable solid materials are separated.
US08865105B2
The present invention provides graphene nuclei including monolayer single-crystalline graphene nuclei and a method of growing from them two-dimensional graphene dendrites, with aspect ratio of the main branches increasing with growth time, on catalytic metal surface using thermal chemical vapor deposition. By controlling the supply rates of the carbon etching gas and the carbon deposition species, it results in graphene branches being merged to form a two-dimensional monolayer single-crystalline graphene plate and further allows multiple graphene plates to merge and form a large-area continuous monolayer graphene plate.
US08865104B2
An apparatus for producing high yields of carbon nanostructures is disclosed. The apparatus includes an electric arc furnace and a feeder that directs solid carbon dioxide into an electrical arc generated by the electric arc furnace.
US08865092B2
A method for automatically dosing a fixative solution in a flexible bag containing at least one biological organic sample comprises placing the bag with the sample in a dosing system (e.g., on a holder or weighing device), computing a required volume or weight of fixative solution as a function of the sample or the bag with the sample, and automatically transferring the computed volume or weight of fixative solution from a storage container into the bag. A system is also described for automatically dosing a fixative solution in a flexible bag containing at least one biological organic sample, a carrier for said flexible bags, and a storage cabinet for storing the carrier.
US08865090B2
A support unit for a microfluidic system includes a first support; a first adhesive layer provided on a surface of the first support; and a hollow filament laid on a surface of the first adhesive layer to have an arbitrary shape and functioning as a flow channel layer of the microfluidic system.
US08865077B2
An apparatus for detecting an object capable of emitting light. The apparatus comprises a light source and a waveguide. The waveguide comprises a core layer and a first cladding layer. At least one nanowell is formed in at least the first cladding layer. The apparatus further comprises a light detector. The light detector can detect a light emitted from a single molecule object contained in the at least one nanowell.
US08865074B2
A sample analysis cartridge and a sample cartridge reader are provided. In measuring a particular component included in a sample flowing in a microfluidic channel, a numerical value of hematocrit is reflected to thus improve the accuracy of measurement of the particular component.
US08865066B2
A method of sterilizing a material, said method comprising the steps of: a) providing a sterilizing composition comprising (i) peracetic acid and (ii) a stabilizer selected from the group consisting of citric acid, isocitric acid, aconitic acid and propane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid; b) introducing such sterilizing composition into a hot gaseous stream to produce a peracetic acid vapor; and c) contacting such peracetic acid vapor with the material to be sterilized. The use of such an organic acid stabilizer results in an unexpected reduction in the amount of residue deposited on the heating surface employed to vaporize the sterilizing composition.
US08865061B2
The invention relates to a steel alloy for a low alloy steel for producing high-tensile, weldable, hot-rolled seamless steel tubing, in particular construction tubing. The chemical composition (in % by mass) is: 0.15-0.18% C; 0.20-0.40% Si; 1.40-1.60% Mn; max. 0.05% P; max. 0.01% S; >0.50-0.90% Cr; >0.50-0.80% Mo; >0.10-0.15% V; 0.60-1.00% W; 0.0130-0.0220% N; the remainder is made up of iron with production-related impurities; with the optional addition of one or more elements selected from Al, Ni, Nb, Ti, with the proviso that the relationship V/N has a value of between 4 and 12 and the Ni content of the steel is not more than 0.40%.
US08865058B2
A furnace heats through both infrared radiation and convective air utilizing an infrared/purge gas design that enables improved temperature control to enable more uniform treatment of workpieces. The furnace utilizes lamps, the electrical end connections of which are located in an enclosure outside the furnace chamber, with the lamps extending into the furnace chamber through openings in the wall of the chamber. The enclosure is purged with gas, which gas flows from the enclosure into the furnace chamber via the openings in the wall of the chamber so that the gas flows above and around the lamps and is heated to form a convective mechanism in heating parts.
US08865043B2
The present invention relates to methods for making oxidation resistant medical devices that comprise polymeric materials, for example, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). The invention also provides methods of making antioxidant-doped medical implants, for example, doping of medical devices containing cross-linked UHMWPE with vitamin E by diffusion, post-doping annealing, and materials used therein.
US08865031B2
A method and apparatus for applying a mid-IR graded microstructure to the end of an As2S3 optical fiber are presented herein. The method and apparatus transfer a microstructure from a negative imprint on a nickel shim to an As2S3 fiber tip with minimal shape distortion and minimal damage-threshold impact resulting in large gains in anti-reflective properties.
US08865029B2
A photochromic polymer comprising at least one siloxane oligomer and at least two photochromic groups covalently linked to one or both terminuses of the siloxane oligomer and compositions containing photochromic siloxane polymers with narrow polydispersity. The photochromic polymer enhances switching speed in rigid host polymers.
US08865028B2
Disclosed herein is a ZnO-based varistor composition including zinc oxide (ZnO) as a main component and a calcium (Ca)-containing compound as an accessory component. The varistor composition provides excellent electrostatic discharge (ESD) characteristics because it has excellent physical properties, such as a nonlinear coefficient, a clamping voltage ratio, a surge absorbance and the like, and, particularly, does not include Bi2O3. Further, the varistor composition provides high work safety because it does not include Sb2O3 that is regulated for environmental purposes. Further, the varistor composition can reduce the manufacturing cost of a varistor because it does not Pr-based components that require high-temperature sintering and increase the manufacturing cost of a varistor. Particularly, the varistor composition has a low clamping voltage as well as a low capacitance.
US08865026B2
A thermosetting adhesive is configured to include a photoradical generator which generates radicals from irradiation of active energy rays in a thermosetting insulating adhesive component. In a repair method when this thermosetting adhesive is used, a cured matter of the thermosetting adhesive is made soluble or swellable in a predetermined solvent by irradiating the cured matter with active energy rays from the substrate side or the electronic component side prior to separating the electronic component from the substrate, and the cured matter is removed using such solvent. Alternatively, the cured matter of the thermosetting adhesive is made soluble or swellable in a predetermined solvent by irradiating the cured matter with active energy rays after the electronic component has been separated from the substrate, and the cured matter is removed using such solvent.
US08865022B2
Phosphor particles are provided in the form of spherical polycrystalline secondary particles consisting of a multiplicity of primary particles, including a garnet phase having the composition: (AxByCz)3C5O12 wherein A is Y, Gd, and/or Lu, B is Ce, Nd, and/or Tb, C is Al and/or Ga, and x, y and z are in the range: 0.002
US08865017B2
A method of texturing a surface of a crystalline silicon substrate is provided. The method includes immersing a crystalline silicon substrate into an aqueous alkaline etchant solution to form a pyramid shaped textured surface, with (111) faces exposed, on the crystalline silicon substrate. The aqueous alkaline etchant solution employed in the method of the present disclosure includes an alkaline component and a nanoparticle slurry component. Specifically, the aqueous alkaline etchant solution of the present disclosure includes 0.5 weight percent to 5 weight percent of an alkaline component and from 0.1 weight percent to 5 weight percent of a nanoparticle slurry on a dry basis.
US08865013B2
A method for chemical mechanical polishing of a substrate comprising tungsten using a nonselective chemical mechanical polishing composition.
US08865012B2
Methods for processing a substrate are provided herein. In some embodiments, a method for processing a substrate may include placing a substrate atop a substrate support disposed beneath a processing volume of a process chamber having a grounded shield surrounding the process volume and a conductive cover ring selectably supportable by the grounded shield; positioning the substrate support in a first position such that the substrate support is not in contact with the conductive cover ring and such that a conductive member electrically coupled to the cover ring contacts the grounded shield to electrically couple the cover ring to the grounded shield; and performing a plasma enhanced etch process on the substrate.
US08865011B2
The invention provides a method for optimizing the spectroscopy performance of a spectroscopy scintillator by surrounding the scintillator by a reflector material, performing a scan measuring resolution and light output at three or more axial locations on the crystal, where at least one location is close to the PMT or below the crystal (near the PMT) at least one location is at the end away from the PMT of the scintillator), and adjusting the surface finish of the crystal and/or the reflector to obtain equal light output and optimal resolution over the length and different azimuth of the crystal.
US08865001B2
A method for fluid treatment that provides variable or alternative regeneration cycles within the same fluid treatment device. The duration of all stages of the regeneration cycle can be adjusted depending upon the amount of fluid treated so that regenerant resources such as water are not underutilized and waste is not discharged unnecessarily into the environment.
US08864992B2
A method for recovering phosphate from sewage treatment plants using multi-stage anaerobic digestion includes the treatment of organic acid digest with calcium hydroxide, calcium oxide, and similar compounds to raise pH to near neutral values and precipitate calcium phosphate compounds such as brushite and similar amorphous compounds. The method includes the formation of calcium phosphates on weak-acid ion exchange columns and membranes in contact with organic acid digest. The system includes removal of the calcium phosphate compounds formed by sedimentation, either static or against an upwelling flow, centrifugation, or filtration.
US08864990B2
Hollow fiber membranes are potted by injecting a liquid material into a substantially closed cavity (44) containing the fibers. The cavity may be formed in part by the interaction of a mold a permeate pan (52) and a layer of an adhesive pre-applied to a bundle of the membranes.
US08864985B2
A method and apparatus for operating on skimmed oil/water picked up from a body of water to separate the oil from the water and discharge the oil-free water back into the body of water, first feeds the skimmed oil/water into a gravity settling tank wherein the oil tends to settle above the water, removing relatively oil-free water from the bottom of the tank and measuring its oil content with an oil concentration sensor, and either returning the oil/water flow to the settling tank for further processing if the measured concentration of oil exceeds predetermined limits or discharging the water back into the body of water if the oil concentration is measured to be less than the predetermined value.
US08864982B2
A method of extracting bitumen from bituminous material. In some embodiments, the method may include loading a bitumen material in a column, followed by feeding a first quantity of first solvent into the column. The method may also include collecting the bitumen-enriched solvent exiting the column. A quantity of the bitumen-enriched solvent may then be fed into the column. In some embodiments, the method may include simultaneously loading bitumen material and a first solvent in a column, followed by feeding additional first solvent into the column. The method may also include collecting bitumen-enriched solvent exiting the column, and feeding a quantity of the bitumen-enriched solvent into the column.
US08864981B2
Deasphalted residual oil (DAO) and the aromatics-rich extract that is derived from DAO have low polycyclic aromatics contents, relatively low aniline points, and high flash points. They form blending stocks that improve properties of mixed feedstocks to consistently produce environmentally qualified rubber processing oil (RPO) by extraction under low solvent-to-oil ratios and moderate extraction temperatures. Distilling a petroleum crude oil under atmospheric pressure generates a bottom residual oil which is then subject to vacuum distillation to yield a bottom residual oil. DAO is produced by removing the asphalt from the vacuum bottom residual oil through extraction with light paraffinic solvent. The extract of DAO is a co-product in the production of the bright stock of the lubricating oil through extraction. The feedstock is mixed with the extract from a petroleum fraction boiling in lube oil range. Liquid-liquid counter-current extraction yields a raffinate stream; removal of solvent therefrom produces the RPO.
US08864978B2
Provided is a process for the supercritical upgrading of petroleum feedstock, wherein the process includes the use of a start-up agent, wherein the use of the start-up agent facilitates mixing of the petroleum feedstock and water, thereby reducing or eliminating the production of coke, coke precursor, and sludge.
US08864969B2
According to one aspect, the disclosure is directed to an example embodiment in which a circuit-based arrangement includes a circuit-based substrate securing a channel, with an effective width that is not limited by the Debye screening length, along a surface of the substrate. A pair of reservoirs are included in or on the substrate and configured for containing and presenting a sample having bio-molecules for delivery in the channel. A pair of electrodes electrically couple a charge in the sample to enhance ionic current flow therein (e.g., to overcome the electrolyte screening), and a sense electrode is located along the channel for sensing a characteristic of the biological sample by using the electrostatic interaction between the enhanced ionic current flow of the sample and the sense electrode. Actual detection occurs by using a charge-signal processing circuit to process the sensed charge signal and, therefrom, provide an output indicative of a signature for the bio-molecules delivered in the channel.
US08864967B2
A device for displacing a small volume of liquid under the effect of an electric control, including a first substrate with a hydrophobic surface provided with a first electrical conductor, a second electrical conductor positioned facing the first conductor, and a third conductor, forming with the second conductor, a mechanism for analyzing or heating a volume of liquid.
US08864965B2
A substrate holder includes a fixed holding member and a movable holding member for detachably holding a substrate by gripping a peripheral portion of the substrate therebetween, and an inner seal member and an outer seal member which are fixed to the movable holding member. When the substrate is held by the movable holding member and the fixed holding member, the inner and outer seal members seal the connection between the movable holding member and a peripheral portion of the substrate and the connection between the movable holding member and the fixed holding member, respectively. The movable holding member includes a seal holder, and the inner seal member and the outer seal member are fixed between the seal holder and a fixing ring secured to the seal holder.
US08864962B2
A feed water addition means for an electrolyser module comprising a plurality of structural plates each having a sidewall extending between opposite end faces with a half cell chamber opening and at least two degassing chamber openings extending through the structural plate between the opposite end faces.
US08864953B2
A reactor for reforming a hydrocarbon, and associated processes and systems, are described herein. In one example, a reactor is provided that is configured to use non-equilibrium gliding arc discharge plasma. In another example, the reactor uses a vortex flow pattern. Two stages of reforming are described. In a first stage, the hydrocarbon absorbs heat from the wall of the reactor and combusts to form carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and water. In a second stage, a gliding arc discharge is use to form syngas, which is a mixture of hydrogen gas and carbon monoxide. The heat generated by the combustion of the first stage transfers to the wall of the reactor and heated products of the second stage mix with incoming hydrocarbon to provide for partial recuperation of the reaction energy.
US08864948B2
Disclosed is a dividing wall column for preparing high-purity neopentyl glycol, and a method of distilling neopentyl glycol. Using only one column, the dividing wall column has the same effect as when using two columns. Thus, energy and equipment costs may be reduced in the production of the high-purity neopentyl glycol as compared to a conventional process apparatus.
US08864944B2
A method of making a multi-ply wiper/towel product with cellulosic microfibers. The method includes compactively dewatering a nascent web that includes at least about 10% fibrillated cellulosic microfibers and has an apparently random distribution of fibers. The dewatered web having the apparently random distribution of fibers is applied to a transfer surface. The web is belt-creped from the transfer surface utilizing a creping belt. The belt-creping step occurs under pressure in a belt creping nip defined between the transfer surface and the creping belt. The web is dried to form a dried web having a plurality of fiber-enriched hollow domed regions protruding from an upper side of the dried web. The hollow domed regions have a sidewall of a relatively high local basis weight formed along at least a leading edge thereof. The web also has connecting regions of a relatively lower local basis weight forming a network interconnecting the hollow domed regions of the dried web, and transition areas provided with upwardly and inwardly inflected consolidated fibrous regions that transition from the connecting regions into the sidewalls of the hollow domed regions formed along at least the leading edge thereof.
US08864943B2
Provided is a method for preparing nonionic water-soluble cellulose ether having low insoluble content and providing a transparent solution. More specifically, provided is a method for preparing nonionic water-soluble cellulose ether comprising at least the steps of: drying a pulp sheet or pulp chips into which the pulp sheet has been converted, bringing the dried pulp sheet or pulp chips into contact with an alkali metal hydroxide solution to obtain alkali cellulose, draining the alkali cellulose, and reacting the drained alkali cellulose with an etherifying agent.
US08864935B2
Embodiments of a plasma generator apparatus for ashing a work piece are provided. The apparatus includes a container adapted for continuous gas flow there through from an inlet end to an outlet end thereof. The container is fabricated of a dielectric material and adapted for ionization therein of a portion of at least one component of gas flowing therethrough. A gas flow distributor is configured to direct gas flow to a region within the container and a coil surrounds at least a portion of side walls of the container adjacent the region of the container to which the gas flow distributor directs gas flow. A radio frequency generator is coupled to the coil.
US08864928B2
A vehicle interior component fabricated using a hot melt adhesive having two base polymers with different melting points, a higher melting point and a lower melting point, for bonding the surfaces of at least two layers of the vehicle interior component. The hot melt adhesive is applied to one of the layers in an activated state at a temperature equal to or greater than the higher melting point and closely bonds with the layer when the adhesive cools to a temperature below the higher melting point. The bond between the two layers is effected at a lower temperature corresponding to the lower melting point to enable removal of the component layers from a mold while still in a warm state.
US08864925B2
A method of manufacturing a laminated electronic part includes fabricating first and second laminated sheets by laminating an insulating function layer made of an unsintered ceramic material and a conductor layer, having a plurality of conductors two-dimensionally arranged in a vertical direction and in a horizontal direction to make up part of circuit components; cutting the first and second laminated sheets into sticks to create a plurality of first and second laminate sticks; fabricating a third laminated sheet by rotating the second laminate sticks by 90°, arranging the second laminate sticks to be each sandwiched between the first laminate sticks, and thermocompression bonding them for integration; singulating the third laminated sheet into chips and creating sintered bodies by sintering the unsintered chips to integrate the first laminate with the second laminate.
US08864922B2
A method for manufacturing a precipitation hardening cold-rolled steel sheet with an excellent yield ratio. The method may include the steps of hot rolling a steel slab with finish rolling at a temperature of Ar3 transformation point or more to form a hot-rolled steel sheet, coiling the hot-rolled steel sheet at a temperature of 550-600 ° C., cold rolling the hot-rolled steel sheet at a reduction ratio of 50% or more; and recovery-recrystallization annealing the cold-rolled steel sheet at a line speed of 150-200 mpm and at a temperature of 780-820° C. in a continuous annealing furnace. The recovery-recrystallization annealing may provide a recrystallization ratio of 65-75%. The steel slab includes, by weight %: C: 0.07-0.10%, Mn: 1.41-1.70%, P: 0.05-0.07%, S: 0.005% or less, N: 0.005% or less, acid-soluble Al: 0.10-0.15%, Nb: 0.06-0.09%, B: 0.0008-0.0012%, Sb: 0.02-0.06%, and the balance comprising Fe and other unavoidable impurities.
US08864914B2
A method for cleaning a ceramic component includes generating a computer solid model of a component, converting the computer solid model to a stereo-lithographic instruction file, and preparing the component in a stereo-lithography machine in response to the stereo-lithographic instruction file. The method further includes providing an amount of solvent, where a residue left from preparing the component is at least partially soluble in the solvent. The method includes immersing at least part of the component in the solvent, heating the solvent in a liquid state, and reducing a pressure of the solvent sufficiently to boil the solvent. The method further includes heat-curing the component.
US08864913B2
A filter cleaning system for cleaning a filter element is provided. The filter cleaning system includes a set of pulse nozzles and a compressed air supply, which rotate together during a cleaning cycle to release pulse blasts at predetermined time intervals to clean the filter element.
US08864909B2
Electrically heated cigarettes used in an electrical smoking system include a flavoring-release additive and sorbent effective to remove one or more gas-phase constituents of mainstream tobacco smoke. The flavoring-release additive includes gamma cyclodextrin and at least one flavoring. Flavoring is released in a cigarette upon the flavoring-release additive reaching at least a minimum temperature during smoking. The flavoring-release additive can have various forms including, for example, powder and films.
US08864907B2
A condition of a single crystal manufacturing step subjected to the Czochralski method applying an initial oxygen concentration, a dopant concentration or resistivity, and a heat treatment condition is determined simply and clearly on the basis of the conditions of a wafer manufacturing step and a device step so as to obtain a silicon wafer having a desired gettering capability. A manufacturing method of a silicon substrate which is manufactured from a silicon single crystal grown by the CZ method and provided for manufacturing a solid-state imaging device is provided. The internal state of the silicon substrate, which depends on the initial oxygen concentration, the carbon concentration, the resistivity, and the pulling condition of the silicon substrate, is determined by comparing a white spot condition representing upper and lower limits of the density of white spots as device characteristics with the measured density of white spots.
US08864905B2
The present invention belongs to the field of binder compositions for construction, more specifically it relates to the use of carboxymethylchitosan as flocculating additive and setting accelerator in binder compositions of the cement, cement mortar, concrete, grout, stucco and similar type. The invention also relates to binder compositions comprising carboxymethylchitosan, as well as to the method for their preparation.
US08864894B2
There is provided a resist underlayer film forming composition for lithography for forming a resist underlayer film capable of being used as a hard mask or a bottom anti-reflective coating, or a resist underlayer film causing no intermixing with a resist and having a dry etching rate higher than that of the resist. A film forming composition comprising a silane compound having an onium group, wherein the silane compound having an onium group is a hydrolyzable organosilane having, in a molecule thereof, an onium group, a hydrolysis product thereof, or a hydrolysis-condensation product thereof. The composition uses as a resist underlayer film forming composition for lithography. A composition comprising a silane compound having an onium group, and a silane compound having no onium group, wherein the silane compound having an onium group exists in the whole silane compound at a ratio of less than 1% by mol, for example 0.01 to 0.95% by mol. The hydrolyzable organosilane may be a compound of Formula: R1aR2bSi(R3)4−(a+b). A resist underlayer film obtained by applying the composition as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 14 onto a semiconductor substrate and by baking the composition.
US08864889B2
A dust suppression apparatus comprising: (a) a turntable; (b) an engine; (c) a water mist blower comprising an air conduit, a plurality of water nozzles positioned so as to supply a spray of water to the air conduit, and a fan positioned so as to supply a stream of air through the air conduit, the water mist blower and the engine mounted on the turntable, the turntable adapted to permit the air conduit to be rotated horizontally, and the air conduit mounted so as to permit the air conduit to tilt vertically; (d) a water conduit adapted to supply pressurized water to the plurality of water nozzles; (e) a belt drive connected to the engine and adapted to supply power to the fan, and (f) a constant velocity joint connecting the belt drive to the fan.
US08864876B2
The invention generally relates to a method for sequestration contaminates. More particularly, the invention relates to a significant performance enhancement over existing mineral carbonation processes through the use of a high mass transfer system and an efficient pH swing reaction. More particularly, aspects of the invention are directed to direct and indirect methods of sequestering contaminates.
US08864875B2
An exhaust gas treatment system for an internal combustion engine is provided comprising an exhaust gas conduit, a particulate filter (“PF”) device, a hydrocarbon source and an electronic control module including operative logic which when implemented. The PF has a filter structure for removal of particulates in the exhaust gas and is selectively regenerated based on an amount of particulates trapped within the filter structure of the PF device. The control module is in communication with the internal combustion engine and the hydrocarbon source, and receives a regeneration signal indicating the amount of particulates trapped within the filter structure of the PF device. The electronic control module includes control logic for monitoring the internal combustion engine prior to a regeneration event. The electronic control module includes control logic for determining a plurality operating parameters of the internal combustion engine based on the monitoring.
US08864870B1
A method of making dispersion-strengthened alloy particles involves melting an alloy having a corrosion and/or oxidation resistance-imparting alloying element, a dispersoid-forming element, and a matrix metal wherein the dispersoid-forming element exhibits a greater tendency to react with a reactive species acquired from an atomizing gas than does the alloying element. The melted alloy is atomized with the atomizing gas including the reactive species to form atomized particles so that the reactive species is (a) dissolved in solid solution to a depth below the surface of atomized particles and/or (b) reacted with the dispersoid-forming element to form dispersoids in the atomized particles to a depth below the surface of said atomized particles. Bodies made from the dispersion strengthened solidified particles exhibit enhanced fatigue and creep resistance and reduced wear as well as enhanced corrosion and/or oxidation resistance at high temperatures.
US08864861B2
A cutting tool insert for machining by chip removal includes a body of polycrystalline cubic boron nitride compact (PCBN), either as a solid insert or attached to a backing body, onto which a hard and wear resistant PVD coating is deposited. The coating includes a polycrystalline nanolaminated structure of alternating A and B layers, where layer A is (Ti,Al,Me1)N and Me1 is one or more of the metal elements from group 3, 4, 5 or 6 in the periodic table, layer B is (Ti,Si,Me2)N and Me2 is one or more of the metal elements from group 3, 4, 5 or 6 in the periodic table including Al with a thickness between 0.5 and 10 μm. The insert is particularly useful in metal cutting applications generating high temperatures, e.g., high speed machining of steels, cast irons, super alloys and hardened steels.
US08864860B2
To provide a polishing composition which can satisfy both suppression of the surface topography and a high stock removal rate, in a polishing step in the production of a wiring structure.A polishing composition comprising abrasive grains, a processing accelerator, a nonionic surfactant represented by R-POE (I) (wherein R is a C10-16 alkyl group having a branched structure, and POE is a polyoxyethylene chain) and having an HLB of from 7 to 12, an anionic surfactant, a protective film-forming agent, an oxidizing agent, and water.
US08864851B2
The present invention relates to whitening compositions, processes for obtaining such compositions, stable aqueous solutions of such compositions and the use of such compositions for whitening of textile fibers, paper and in detergency.
US08864847B1
A computer-implemented method for preventing mobile device loss may include 1) identifying historical data specifying a plurality of past locations of a plurality of mobile computing devices, 2) identifying a current location of a mobile computing device within the plurality of mobile computing devices, 3) determining that the current location deviates from an expected location based on the historical data, and 4) performing a security measure on the mobile computing device in response to determining that the current location deviates from the expected location. Various other methods, systems, and computer-readable media are also disclosed.
US08864845B2
A system for control of a prosthetic device includes at least one Inertial Measurement Unit detecting orientation of a user's foot. The at least one Inertial Measurement Unit is in communication with a device module configured to command at least one actuator of a prosthetic device. The at least one Inertial Measurement unit sends output signals related to orientation of the user's foot to the device module and the device module controls the at least one actuator of the prosthetic device based on the signals from the at least one Inertial Measurement Unit. The device module controls movement of an endpoint of the device within a movement envelope. The device module commanding movement of the end point within the movement envelope through at least simultaneous and/or independent actuation of the plurality of actuators based on the at least one body input signal in accordance with a movement function to achieve the desired directional movement of the endpoint within the movement envelope.
US08864842B2
A stent is provided that is able to resist clogging from cumulative matter found within a fluid that passes therethrough. The stent includes a mass moveably disposed therein, wherein movement of the stent tends to dislodge any cumulative matter accumulated within the stent. As a result, the device is able to remain resident within the patient for an extended period of time before becoming clogged and needing to be replaced.
US08864840B2
Transoral obesity treatment devices and related methods for operation thereof are described which occupy space within a stomach and/or stimulate the stomach wall. The transoral obesity treatment devices and related methods are intended to assist a patient in maintaining a healthy body weight. Features of the devices include insertion transorally and without invasive surgery, without associated patient risks of invasive surgery, and without substantial patient discomfort. The life span of these devices may be material-dependent upon long-term survivability within an acidic stomach, but is intended to last one year or longer. The devices have the capacity to vary in size and are desirably self-actuating in that they change shape and/or volume using internal motors or actuators. The changing character of the devices helps prevent the person's stomach from compensating for the implant, such as sometimes happens with static intragastric devices.
US08864819B2
A stent graft (1) has a tubular body (3) defining a main lumen and a side tube (5) defining a side tube lumen and in fluid communication with the main lumen and defining a junction (13) between the tubular body and the side tube. The junction includes an acute angle of attachment (α). A first zig-zag stent (15) is wrapped around the tubular body such that a V portion of the first zig-zag stent is engaged about the acute angle of the junction and a second zig-zag stent (23) is wrapped around the side tube, such that a V portion of the second zig-zag stent is engaged about the acute angle of the junction, whereby the main lumen and the side tube are each kept open, independently, allowing fluid to flow freely therethrough.
US08864810B2
Implantation device for implanting a prosthesis (110) in a vessel (1), including a balloon (128) and a dilation catheter (120) for supplying fluid to the balloon (128), the dilation catheter (120) having a proximal end, a distal end (124) and a distal part designed to be introduced into the vessel (1), characterized in that the distal part includes a bend (123) and also an upstream portion (121) and a downstream portion (122) that are contiguous to the bend and that are arranged between the bend and, respectively, the proximal end and the distal end (124).
US08864809B2
A medical system for treating an internal tissue opening can include a closure device and associated delivery device. The closure device can include a multi-cellular body portion operatively associated with a first anchor and a second anchor. The closure device can be configured to apply lateral force to tissue of the internal tissue opening for tissue approximation. The closure device can also include an ingrowth material. The delivery device can include an actuating assembly configured to partially deploy the closure device by a first movement, and deploy a second portion of the closure device by a second movement. The delivery device can also include a release assembly to selectively release or disconnect the closure device from the delivery device.
US08864797B2
A line lock system may include a line routed through a plate. The plate may have an elongated body with a plurality of passageways. The line is routed to form at least one one-way slide so no knots are required. The system may include filaments routed through the passageways of the plate or around a dogbone feature of the plate. The filaments may be used to toggle the plate after passage through a hole to prevent withdrawal of the plate back through the hole. The system may include a line lock stabilizer or counter-tension tool to stabilize the line lock as the line is adjusted. The system may include a compression limiter to selectively reduce compression in the one-way slide to facilitate adjustment of the line. The line lock stabilizer, counter-tension tool, or compression limiter may be a filament.
US08864793B2
A vessel filter comprising a first distal region terminating at a first end and a second proximal region terminating at a second end of the filter and movable between a collapsed position for delivery to the vessel and an expanded position for placement within the vessel. The first region has a filter portion having a converging region to direct particles toward the center of the filter. The second region is flared in the expanded position to have a transverse dimension increasing toward a second end portion opposite the filter portion and includes a vessel engaging portion at the second end portion. The first region has a retrieval hook and a spacer forming a looped region extending radially from the first region.
US08864786B2
A dual-layer dilatation balloon, and a process of making such balloon, which includes an inner layer that includes a plasticizer and a polymer selected from the group consisting of a polyamide, a copolymer thereof, and a combination thereof, and an outer layer that includes an ethylene-propylene rubber. The dual-layer balloon optionally further includes a stent disposed on the balloon. The stent is optionally a drug-eluting stent.
US08864781B2
Medical devices and methods are provided for forming an intestinal bypass anastomosis, such as for treatment of obesity. The medical devices and methods are minimally invasive and reduce complications. Two magnet assemblies are deployed in a spaced apart relationship, and are transluminally brought together to approximate the tissue and form an anastomosis therebetween.
US08864779B2
The invention relates to a device for intracorporeal application of auxiliary medical material, in particular for bio-materials and wound applications, having a hollow application tube for inserting the auxiliary medical material into the surgical area. To create a device for intracorporeal application of auxiliary medical material that ensures simple handling and a secure application of the auxiliary medical material in the surgical area, the invention is characterized by a winding insert that can be inserted into the hollow application tube and can be slid in the longitudinal direction of the application tube and on which it is possible to wind the auxiliary medical material that is to be applied.
US08864774B2
Systems and methods are provided for automatically forming an incision in a tympanic membrane of an ear and placing a tympanic membrane pressure equalization tube into the incision. The systems include a housing with a shaft extending therefrom. A mechanism is disposed within the housing. A distal end of the shaft is placed against a tympanic membrane, and the mechanism is triggered to causes the tympanic membrane to be automatically incised and dilated and a tympanic membrane pressure equalization tube to be placed in the dilated incision.
US08864770B2
Provided herein is a vertebral distractor-inserter comprising a pair of arms comprising a first arm having a proximal end and a distal end and a second arm having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the distal end of the first opposing arm is laterally offset from the distal end of a second arm thereby comprising a pair of laterally offset opposing arms, a driving rod extending between the pair of laterally offset opposing arms, and a drive mechanism in mechanical communication with the driving rod. A vertebral distractor-inserter comprising a pair of opposing arms, a housing in mechanical communication with the arms and rotatable about an axis extending between the arms, and a driving rod extending through at least a portion of the housing and between the arms. A vertebral distractor-inserter adapted for single-handed use. A vertebral distractor-inserter having an implant depth adjustor. Methods for distracting adjacent vertebrae and inserting an implant using the device described herein.
US08864763B2
The present application discloses embodiments related to an external bone fixation device configured to correct bone deformities or repair bone injuries. The device can include a plurality of bases configured to be attached to portions of a bone and a plurality of struts configured to be adjustable in length to change the position and orientation of the plurality of bases and the attached bone portions.
US08864757B2
A contact sensing assembly including a catheter including an electrode having a base portion mounted adjacent a head portion of the catheter body. A sensor is disposed adjacent the base portion for measuring compression or tensile forces applied to an electrode tip portion, and includes a predetermined sensitivity. The base and head portions include predetermined rigidity so that forces applied to the electrode tip portion are determinable as a function of the sensitivity and a sensor output. A contact sensing assembly also includes an electrode pipe operatively connected to the catheter body for movement and bending with the catheter body, and an electrode wire disposed in the electrode pipe and including insulation. A change in capacitance resulting from movement of the electrode wire toward the electrode pipe or contact of the electrode wire with the electrode pipe during bending of the catheter correlates to a force applied to the catheter.
US08864755B2
An endovascular treatment method for causing closure of a blood vessel is provided. The method includes inserting into a blood vessel an optical fiber having a core through which a laser light travels and a spacer sleeve arranged around a distal portion of the core. A distal end of the core defines an enlarged light emitting face, which advantageously provides substantially lower power density while providing the same amount of total energy during a treatment session. After the insertion, laser light is applied through the light emitting face while the inserted optical fiber and spacer sleeve are longitudinally moved. The spacer sleeve positions the light emitting face away from an inner wall of the blood vessel and application of the laser light causes closure of the blood vessel.
US08864729B2
Ostomy ports with self closing for prevention of undesired waste leakage which changing bags or covering and uncovering of a port. A valve may be automatically activated by uncovering of the port. Optionally or alternatively, a valve may be automatically opened by covering of the port.
US08864721B2
The invention relates to a gearing mechanism for a dose delivery device wherein the dose can be set by rotating a dose setting member (2, 102), and by which the dose setting member (2, 102) and a push-button (4) elevates from one end of the device proportional to the set dose from a position fixed relative to a housing (1, 101), and by which an injection of the set dose can be done by pressing the push-button back to its not elevated position, moving a piston rod (10, 110) cooperating with the piston in an cartridge (12, 112) and expelling a medicament out of the through a needle. The gearing mechanism is arranged in the device in such a way, that the loss of energy is very low.
US08864719B2
A needle and receiver assembly for use with a syringe cartridge filled with medicine includes a cartridge receiver having a hollow interior, an open end sized for receiving at least part of the syringe cartridge, and a closed end opposite the open end. The assembly includes a needle mounted on the receiver having a fluid passage extending between a sharp delivery tip at a distal end of the needle and a sharp access tip at a proximal end of the needle opposite the delivery tip positioned inside the hollow interior of the receiver. The assembly includes a cutter movably mounted in the hollow interior of the receiver for movement relative to the receiver and the needle to cut the diaphragm of the cartridge when received in the hollow interior of the receiver.
US08864717B2
A self attaching injection port has integral moveable fasteners which are moveable from a undeployed state to a deployed state engaging tissue. The fasteners may be disposed radially or tangentially, and rotated to pierce the fascia. The fasteners may be rigid or elastically deformable.
US08864716B2
In a device (1) for monitoring and/or manipulating objects that are arranged in a cavity that can be accessed through a narrow opening, a tubular or hose-shaped insertion part (2) is provided, on which a flexible section (4) is formed, which can be controlled by a Bowden cable (5), the Bowden cable (5) acting on an actuating element (10) which is rotatably supported in a joint (11) which includes a joint socket (13) and a corresponding joint ball (12) that engages with the joint socket (13).
US08864708B1
A closure assembly structured for use with a female luer connector operative to indicate an attempted tampering or access thereto. A flow restrictor is movably and removably disposed within a housing and includes a male connector, such as a male luer connector, inserted in flow restricting engagement within an interior port of the female luer connector. An indicator member is removably connected within the housing and a drive assembly associated with both the flow restrictor and the housing is operable to dispose the male connector in flow restricting engagement within the female connector. Attempted removal of the closure assembly from the female connector will detach an indicator member from the housing and visually expose it, thereby indicating attempted access.
US08864704B2
A non-compliant medical balloon, where the non-compliant medical balloon may be changed from a deflated state to an inflated state by increasing pressure within the balloon, is made with a first fiber layer, a second fiber layer over said first fiber layer such that the fibers of the first fiber layer and the fibers of the second fiber layer form an angle and a binding layer coating the first fiber layer and said second fiber layer. The interior surface area of the non-compliant medical balloon remains unchanged when the balloon changes from a deflated state to an inflated state.
US08864684B2
An apparatus includes a housing, a flow control mechanism, and an actuator. At least a portion of the flow control mechanism is movably disposed within the housing. The apparatus further includes an inlet port and an outlet port, and defines a fluid reservoir. The outlet port is fluidically coupled to a second fluid reservoir and is fluidically isolated from the first fluid reservoir. The actuator is configured to move the flow control mechanism between a first configuration, in which the inlet port is placed in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir such that the fluid reservoir receives a first flow of bodily-fluid, and a second configuration, in which the inlet port is placed in fluid communication with the outlet port.
US08864680B2
A biopsy device for harvesting tissue samples from a body of a living being, e.g. in percutaneous aspiration biopsy, includes an outer needle and a sample-receiving device for receiving a severed tissue sample, the sample-receiving device being movable in the hollow needle. The device includes a transport device for moving the sample-receiving device in the hollow needle, the transport device comprising a bendable elongate element, such as a steel wire, a toothed wire made from e.g. a plastics material or a Bowden cable capable of pushing and pulling the sample-receiving device in distal and proximal directions, respectively. A coiling device is provided for the bendable elongate element. The bendable elongate element and the coiling device may be included in a disposable unit, which is attachable to a hand-held unit including a motor for driving the transport device. Orientation means are provided for appropriately orienting the sample-receiving device with respect to the hollow needle.
US08864671B2
Methods and systems for color flow imaging are provided.
US08864670B2
An ultrasonic monitoring device includes a substrate, a plurality of ultrasonic transducer elements, a computer readable memory medium, a microprocessor, and a power source. The ultrasonic transducer elements are coupled to the substrate. Each ultrasonic transducer element is separately configured to transmit a signal to a target area of a mammal and to receive an echo return signal from the target area. The computer readable memory medium includes program instructions. The microprocessor is coupled to the ultrasonic transducer elements and to the computer readable memory medium for executing the program instructions to determine a physiological parameter of the mammal based on a combined analysis of the echo return signals received by the ultrasonic transducer elements. The power source is coupled to at least one of the ultrasonic transducer elements, the computer readable memory medium, or the microprocessor for supplying electrical energy.
US08864669B2
A method for detecting abnormal tissue in a region of healthy tissue, comprising: a) making a first measurement of ultrasound backscattered from the region; b) heating the region, at least after the first measurement; c) making one or more additional measurements of ultrasound backscattered from the region after some or all of the heating; and d) analyzing the measurements to detect the abnormal tissue by finding differences in changes, caused by the heating, of one or more characteristics of ultrasound backscattering, between the abnormal tissue and the healthy tissue.
US08864668B2
Embodiments for forming elastic images in an ultrasound system are disclosed. In one embodiment, a Tx/Rx unit repeatedly transmits/receives an ultrasound beam along scan lines in a target object to output receive signals. An image processing unit forms a plurality of consecutive ultrasound images based on the receive signals and set a center of the target object on each of the ultrasound images. The image processing unit further sets radial scan lines in radial directions with respect to the center on each of the ultrasound image and reconstructs the ultrasound images such that the radial scan lines are in parallel with each other to form reconstruction images. An elastic image forming unit forms an elastic image based on the reconstruction images.
US08864663B1
A system is provided to evaluate physical condition of a user based on the health data collected from one or more SMDs. The system may comprise a user data component, a routines component and a health status engine. The user data component may be configured to receive health data for the user. A routines component may be configured to identify a current routine associated with the health data. The health status engine may be configured to determine health status information based on the received health data and the identified current routine.
US08864660B1
The present self-retaining vaginal retractor with a weighted speculum comprises the weighted speculum including the speculum blade, speculum projection comprising the teeth for controllable dilation, dilating mechanism, including cables and cable connecting device, left and right pivotable dilating portions, including blades, blade holders and blade holders length adjustment devices, and the handle coupled with the speculum body and including the dilated vaginal opening fixing device comprising the cam and fixation release trigger.
US08864655B2
An instrument system that includes an elongate body, an optical fiber, and a controller is provided. The optical fiber is operatively coupled to the elongate body and has a plurality of strain sensors provided on the optical fiber. Each of the plurality of strain sensors has a reflectivity, wherein one of the plurality of strain sensors has a different reflectivity than another one of the plurality of strain sensors. The controller is operatively coupled to the optical fiber and adapted to: receive one or more signals from the plurality of strain sensors; and determine a position of the elongate body based on the one or more signals.
US08864640B2
A method of folding a plurality of flexible elements about a central fluid storage element includes of urging an intravaginal device into a folding device; imparting relative rotation between at least a portion of the folding device and the intravaginal device; and contacting the plurality of flexible extensions with the folding device. Wherein the intravaginal device includes a fluid storage element and a plurality of flexible extensions extending therefrom, and the flexible extensions are folded about the fluid storage element in a uniform direction. Alternatively, in place of relative rotation, the flexible extensions are folded by means of guide rails of the folding device. Several apparatus may be employed in this and related methods.
US08864639B2
A balance board adapted for riding rail-to-rail, preferably so that at least a portion of a rider's feet will be placed on the board over the elongated roller. The balance board includes an elongated, planar board having a length that exceeds a width. The balance board further includes two pair of stops mounted to an underside of the board, each pair of stops being mounted near opposite ends of the board, and each stop of the pair of stops being mounted near opposite sides of the board. The balance board further includes a traction region between each stop of each pair of stop.
US08864635B1
Resistance training exercise apparatus includes a boom arm pivotally mounted to a frame and having an anchor segment pivoting along a first arc about a first pivot point on the frame. A press arm is coupled to a resistance mechanism and is pivotally mounted to the anchor segment of the boom arm and pivots along a second arc about a second pivot point. The user may adjustably vary the location of the second pivot point of the press arm relative to the frame by pivoting the boom arm about the first pivot point.
US08864629B2
A facial exercise device includes a handle, ring, tongue arm and flexible cheek arms. The device is inserted into a person's mouth and the person's cheeks are tightened against the resistance provided by the flexible cheek arms. An optional eyepiece includes connected flexible right and left eye portions and two or more protrusions extending outwardly.
US08864623B2
Methods and systems for controlling a transmission coupled to an engine during an engine start are presented. In one example, a method adjusts a transmission tie-up force in response to an indication of transmission slip. The method may improve vehicle launch for stop/start vehicles.
US08864622B2
A drive train apparatus (1) adapted for driving a pan and tilt head, which in use is intended to support a payload (for example a video camera), the apparatus includes respective successive drive elements (2, 3, 4) so coupled as to communicate a rotational movement applied at one end of the apparatus (1) from an output of a rotational input device (8) to a rotational output (16) disposed at the other end of the apparatus (1), in a manner whereby the rotational velocity of the rotational movement is reduced across the drive elements (2, 3, 4) thereby converting the torque applied to the input of each drive element (2, 3, 4) into an increased torque at the output of each drive element (2, 3, 4); a first stage one of the drive elements including a belt drive.
US08864615B2
A planetary gear retrieval system for pulling a sled at a constant velocity along an interior of a pipe. The system includes a network of gears, one of the gears powered by a gear motor, which is in operable communication with a variable speed microcontroller. A chain is threaded through the network of gears and an end of the chain is connected to the sled.
US08864608B2
A weighted apparatus, such as a bat, bar, stick, racket, or club, includes added weight in one end of the apparatus to create an obviously heavy end, and thereby an unbalanced apparatus. The unbalanced apparatus gives the user the ability to create a heavy load to build strength by holding the light end of the device and a light load to build speed, endurance, and flexibility by holding the heavy end of the device. When swung holding the heavy end, such an unbalanced apparatus is uniquely effective for various sports practice regimens, certain game play, general exercise, physical rehabilitation, etc., to improve the user's strength and overall conditioning levels, to build hand speed and to promote a proper swing.
US08864594B2
The invention relates to a carnival ride the comprises a passenger seat for receiving at least one person, a display device for displaying a film sequence and a robot with a control device and with a robotic arm to which the passenger seat can be fastened or is fastened. The film sequence comprises several successive images. The robotic arm comprises drives connected to the control device and comprises several members that can be moved relative to each other by the drives relative to axes. The control device is arranged for controlling the drives for a movement of the robotic arm so that the members have positions of the axes which positions are associated during the movement with the movement. Information about an association of at least several of the images of the film sequence with corresponding positions of the axes of the robotic arm is stored in the control device.
US08864572B2
A gaming machine and method having a high-low game including a plurality of ranked symbols. The gaming machine enables the player to select a number of ranked symbols to play in the game and to make a wager. The gaming machine displays the number of ranked symbols. For each of the displayed ranked symbols, the gaming machine associates another one of the ranked symbols, a comparison symbol, with the displayed ranked symbol and enables the player to make an input to indicate whether the comparison symbol will be of a higher rank or a lower rank than the displayed ranked symbol. After the player makes the input, the gaming machine generates the comparison symbol and determines if the player's input was correct. The gaming machine provides an award to the player if the player makes a predetermined number of correct inputs.
US08864570B2
A method and apparatus for a gaming machine is disclosed. A wager is made to play an underlying symbol game, and if a predetermined trigger is present in the symbol game outcome, a bonus game is provided wherein a predetermined amount of free spins is provided. A first Available Benefit is made available on the first spin. If the first spin results in the first Available Benefit being achieved, a second Available Benefit is made available upon the next spin. If the first spin does not result in the first Available Benefit being achieved, the same first Available Benefit is made available upon the next spin. Each free spin offers a feature opportunity as an Available Benefit, the feature opportunity being comprised from a predetermined set of features, with each Available Benefit being activated in conjunction with all previously activated Available Benefits.
US08864564B2
A gaming system including a plurality of gaming machines or devices. The gaming machines include an interactive game and a wager triggering event. Upon the occurrence of the wager triggering event during play of the interactive game, the gaming machine causes the placement of a wager component and randomly determines a wagering outcome. Upon completion of the interactive game, the gaming machine provides the player with an interactive game outcome and provides the player with any awards based on any determined wagering outcomes. The players are ranked in the interactive game. Upon a triggering event, the gaming system provides one or more ranked players of the interactive game an award from funds derived from a marketing or advertising account.
US08864562B2
This is a method and system for a computerized online apparatus allowing users to engage in political prediction games based on contemporary American elections at the presidential, congressional, state, and local level, assigning points based on the results from the actual political election contests, the user's predictive accuracy relative to the actual outcomes and results of those aforementioned elections, and by comparing the user's predictive success relative to other users.
US08864554B2
The invention relates to a sharpener for sharpening a cutting tool, such as a knife, the sharpener comprising a body part (1), a rotatable sharpening roll (2) resting on the body part, and a first guide groove (11) above the sharpening roll for receiving a first tool blade and for guiding it in relation to the sharpening roll (2). To allow the sharpener to be made structurally simple and well applicable for sharpening both narrow and wide blades, the sharpener comprises a second guide groove (14), which is wider than the first guide groove (11), to be arranged above the sharpening roll (2) to allow a second tool blade to be received and guided in relation to the sharpening roll (2).
US08864553B2
A taper head control assembly is provided for a fluid jet cutting system. A base is movably mounted relative to a cutting table. A tilt body carries a fluid jet cutting apparatus and includes a rack. A tilt housing supports the tilt body and includes a pinion engaging the rack for selectively tilting the fluid jet cutting apparatus. A rotational axis housing is mounted to the base and a collar is rotatably mounted relative to the rotational axis housing. The collar carries the tilt axis housing to selectively rotate the water jet cutting apparatus relative to the base.
US08864551B2
A maternity garment, which provides mild support to shape a woman's body and to act as a suspender for bottoms such as pants, shorts, or skirts that may be ill fitting due to body changes as a result of pregnancy, wherein the preferred garment has at least one shoulder strap, a belly panel, a hip band, two side panels, and a back panel, and is made of high performance fabric with varying degrees of compression.
US08864547B2
An attachment mechanism for suspending one or more toys or other objects from a child-support apparatus such as a crib, bassinet, car seat, stroller, swing, bouncer, play gym, play yard, jumper, or the like. Typically, the child-support apparatus includes one or more beams or other supports where the toy-attachment mechanism is located. The toy-attachment mechanism includes a repositioning track and a slide coupling that is repositionable along the track and from which toys can be suspended. In typical embodiments, the track and the coupling include mating teeth that interlock to hold the coupling in place but that can be disengaged to reposition the coupling and the toys suspended therefrom.
US08864535B2
An electrical contact to be housed in a connector includes a mating member receiving section and a wire receiving section. The mating member receiving section is configured to mate with a mating member to provide an electrical connection there between. The wire receiving section has multiple contact sections, with each contact section configured for receiving one respective wire therein. Each contact section is oriented to receive the one respective wire from a different direction. The wire receiving section permitting insertion of only one respective wire in the wire receiving section at one time. The varied orientation of the contact sections of the wire receiving section allows the one respective wire to be inserted into the contact from different directions, providing an electrical connection between the one respective wire and the contact.
US08864533B2
A housing (10) includes a cavity (11) into which a terminal fitting (40) fixed to an end portion of a wire (30) is to be inserted from behind. The terminal fitting (40) includes a barrel (42) to be fixed to a core (31) of the wire (30) and a contact part between the barrel portion (42) and the core (31) of the wire (30) is covered by a waterproof member (50). Recesses (23) that widen the width of the cavity (11) are formed in parts of peripheral walls (16) of the cavity (11) corresponding to the barrel (42) of the terminal fitting (40).
US08864526B2
A connection socket for a portable terminal includes a plurality of connection terminals of different types disposed in different positions on one plane in a case and connected with plug connection terminals mounted to a connection plug. Here, portions of the plurality of connection terminals to be connected with the plug connection terminals are disposed in different positions. The plurality of connection terminals are in different lengths.
