US08638809B1
The present disclosure generally pertains to systems and methods for compensating for repetitive impulse noise (REIN) affecting signals that are communicated over a telecommunication channel. A system in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes a transmitter and receiver that communicate over a telecommunication channel. The data is encoded by the transmitter using a forward error correction (FEC) algorithm, such as Reed-Solomon coding, before being transmitted over a telecommunication channel to the receiver. The REIN tracker analyzes the data received by the receiver in order to predict when future occurrences of REIN will likely affect the data being communicated over the channel. The REIN tracker then marks erasures in a received data stream based on its REIN predictions. A decoder then decodes FEC code words in the data stream based on the marked erasures.
US08638804B2
A broadband gateway, which enables communication with a plurality of devices, may be operable to identify an energy efficient certified device from the plurality of devices. The broadband gateway may handle at least one physical layer connection to at least one corresponding network access service provider. Information related to the identified energy efficient certified device, including usage information of the device, may be communicated to one or more entities. The broadband gateway may acquire the usage information of the energy efficient certified device by monitoring whether the device is operating in an energy efficient mode. The broadband gateway may obtain a credit and/or a reward from the one or more entities based on the usage information of the energy efficient certified device. The broadband gateway may deposit the credit and/or the reward to an account associated with the energy efficient certified device.
US08638794B1
Method and system for routing traffic across multiple network interfaces with use of VPN traffic selector as part of decision making, for example, in the context of a mobile communication network. A packet data unit (PDU) is generated in association with an application that can be selectively activated on a mobile device and carries a destination Internet protocol (IP) address representing a server that supports the application. A broker associated with the mobile device retrieves information relating to traffic selectors and determines whether the PDU is associated with an operator application or a non-operator application based on the destination IP address and the information relating to traffic selectors. The broker routes the PDU to one of the multiple network interfaces based on whether the PDU is from an operator application traffic and local policies. When the PDU is associated with an operator application and the mobile device is not connected to its operator network, the PDU is routed via a virtual private network (VPN) selector.
US08638793B1
An apparatus includes a comparator engine having a comparison logic unit to compare at least a portion of a header of a data unit to a header pattern, where the header pattern corresponds to at least a portion of a header of a previously analyzed data unit, and a match indication generator to generate a match indication if the at least a portion of the header matches the header pattern; and a result generator to cause the data unit to be processed based on the previously analyzed data unit if the match indication is generated.
US08638792B2
A method and system for compiling a representation of a source circuit including one or more source subchannels associated with portions of source logic driven by a plurality of clock domains are described. Each source subchannel may generate packets carrying signal data from one of the portions of the source logic. A representation of a destination circuit may be compiled to include one or more destination subchannels associated with portions of destination logic replicating the source logic. Each destination subchannel may forward the signal data via the packets to one of the portions of the destination logic. A switching logic may be configured to map the source subchannels to the destination subchannels as virtual channels to forward the packets from the source subchannels to the destination subchannels. A single queue may be configured to couple with the switching logic to record packets from the source subchannels into a packet stream for a delay period to distribute to the destination subchannels. The destination logic may emulate the source logic synchronized with the plurality of clock domains delayed by the delay period.
US08638787B2
In one embodiment, a particular multicast-enabled device on a LAN may determine that it is to send a Join message to an upstream multicast-enabled device that is configured to source multicast data into the LAN. As such, the particular device may transmit a Join message to the upstream device, where the Join message may have a Hello Request indication when there are no downstream multicast neighbors for the upstream device in the LAN, or may not have the Hello Request indication if there is at least one downstream multicast neighbor for the upstream device. Specifically, the Hello Request requests that the upstream device transmit Hello messages onto the LAN. Multicast-enabled devices in the LAN may thus transmit Hello messages in response to receiving a Join message having a Hello Request directed to that particular device, that is, transmitting the Hello messages so long as there is interest in receiving them.
US08638786B2
Embodiments herein control a wind turbine in a wind power plant where the wind turbine includes a wind turbine controller and at least one connected wind turbine component. Upon receiving a packet containing a “write/read” instruction, the wind turbine controller effectuates a write instruction by changing a set point associated with an attribute of a component in the wind turbine. The controller retrieves information data resulting from performing the write instruction from the component and transmits the information data to a central controller. The invention performs a fast and simple control loop by means of transmitting both the write and the read instruction within one single data packet.
US08638782B2
A method, server and terminal for providing a Voice Call Continuity (VCC) service, are discussed. According to an embodiment, the terminal includes a storage unit to store operator policy information and user preference information, the user preference information including domain selection information specifying a user-preferred domain to be used when originating the outgoing call from the terminal, the operator policy information including domain selection information specifying a network-preferred domain to be used when originating the outgoing call from the terminal; and a controller to perform a domain selection for the outgoing call based on the user preference information or the operator policy information.
US08638767B2
The transmission range of a network communication device can be extended by enabling transition between legacy and non-legacy communication protocols. A communication device can receive a packet in a legacy packet format from a host device via a legacy network interface. In response to determining that the packet received via the legacy network interface is to be transmitted using one of a plurality of non-legacy communication protocols, a processing path within the communication device in accordance with which to process the packet for transmission using the non-legacy communication protocol is determined. The packet in the legacy packet format is reformatted to yield a target packet in a non-legacy packet format based, at least in part, on the non-legacy communication protocol. The target packet is provided to the destination network device in accordance with the non-legacy communication protocol.
US08638764B2
A mobile telecommunications architecture is disclosed. A downlink mobile telecommunications signaling message is received via a first communication interface associated with a single shared network controller connection to a mobile switching center (MSC) server. The downlink mobile telecommunications signaling message is mapped to one of a plurality of small scale base stations each of which is configured to perform at least some network controller functions.
US08638760B2
Techniques to dynamically manage wireless connections are described. For example, a mobile computing device may comprise a connection management module to dynamically select one of a plurality of switching technologies to initiate a connection with one or more target devices and automatically initiate the connection with the one or more target devices using the dynamically selected switching technology. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US08638756B2
Disclosed is a portable internet system, and more particularly, to a method of supporting fast ranging upon handover. The method comprises calculating an action time based on a time when a handover confirmation message is received from a serving Radio Access Station (RAS), in a target RAS; and transmitting a fast ranging information message to a mobile station on the basis of the action time.
US08638731B2
A femtocell architecture and network are described. In one example the femtocell has a wireless access point having a first communications interface for wireless communications with a subscriber unit and a second communications interface for communications with a cellular radio communications system, and a secure gateway between the access point and the cellular system to secure communications between the access point and the cellular system.
US08638726B2
A method, apparatus and system for transmitting a data link descriptor or MAP signal describing sub-burst transmissions having a common number of resource units allocated thereto. The MAP signal may include the length of the common number of resource units allocated thereto and the modulation and coding schemes to be used thereby. A method, apparatus and system for transmitting an ordered MAP signal sequence describing a series of transmissions each having a number of resource units allocated thereto. A first plurality of locations in the ordered sequence may describe lengths of resource units. A second plurality of locations in the ordered sequence may describe numbers of transmissions having the lengths described in one of the first plurality of locations. A third plurality of locations in the ordered sequence may describe a number of transmissions using one of a plurality of modulation and coding schemes. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US08638724B1
A communication system for operating a wireless communication network to manage machine-to-machine communications comprises a communication transceiver system and a communication processing system. The communication transceiver system is configured to wirelessly receive a data packet having a packet header, wherein the packet header includes a machine-to-machine communication indicator representing that a machine-to-machine communication in the packet payload is originated and consumed by machines and not human operators. The communication processing system is configured to determine at least one wireless network parameter indicating a state of the wireless communication network, and process the machine-to-machine communication indicator and the wireless network parameter to determine whether to transfer or drop the data packet. The communication transceiver system is configured to transfer the data packet if the communication processing system determines to transfer the data packet, and not transfer the data packet if the communication processing system determines not to transfer the data packet.
US08638723B2
A method for use in a wireless transmit receive unit (WTRU) for two-stage reordering of received protocol data units (PDUs). The method comprising receiving PDUs from Node-Bs, wherein each of the received PDUs has a transmission sequence number (TSN), reordering the received PDUs from Node-Bs using the TSN in a MAC layer in different reordering queues, delivering the received PDUs from reordering queues to one logical channel in the RLC layer, reordering the received PDUs in the RLC layer based on a sequence number (SN), starting a timer when at least a RLC PDU is missing based on SN of the RLC PDU, and transmitting a status report indicating a missing RLC PDU based on SN of the RLC PDU if the timer expires, wherein transmission of the status report is delayed if a RLC PDU is missing based on SN of the RLC PDU and the timer is running.
US08638713B2
Wireless network nodes are configured to transmit a request to update the quality of service associated with an existing radio access bearer. In response to the request, the radio access bearer is updated without tearing down the established radio access bearer. Some applications can be associated with one or more quality of service indicia, so that as service demands change in use of a single application, requests for quality of service updates can be transmitted by, for example, a mobile station or other network nodes. Updates can be initiated by other user equipment or by network nodes such as gateway GPRS support nodes. Service interruptions can be reduced by preserving a radio access bearer (RAB), which is particularly useful for a stationary mobile station that continues to communicate with the same serving GPRS support node.
US08638712B2
In a communication system wherein a CDMA segment at each access point consists of multiple sub-segments a three frame transmission time interval (TTI) with eight retransmissions is utilized for data transmission. The access point not only specifies the interlaces to be utilized for data transmission it also assigns packet start interlaces for particular access terminals. An auxiliary pilot channel R-AuxPICH is transmitted by an access terminal along with CDMA data on reverse link. The ratio of R-AuxPICH to R-PICH is varied based on ACK/NACK feedback. A reverse link activity bit (RAB) which can be used as an emergency load-control mechanism for non-QoS flows is also disclosed.
US08638704B2
Embodiments of methods for optimizing power savings in a wireless device by maintaining sleep in sub-frames of an extended Listen Window, in an I.E.E.E. 802.16m communication system. In one embodiment, the Listen Window is extended into the Sleep Window, wherein at least one sub-frame remains designated for sleep. The power savings may be used when HARQ retransmissions are scheduled or for VoIP transmissions and so forth.
US08638703B2
The invention relates to a method and a device for which, for determining a routing-metric for a mesh-network, in particular according to standard IEEE 802.11s, routing messages sent in wireless mesh networks or mobile ad-hoc-networks, on various paths of source nodes, via the mesh nodes of the mesh networks to the target nodes, are evaluated in order to determine the best path for transferring data packets from source nodes to target nodes. Said nodes are battery-operated and mesh nodes are only used in the energy-saving mode as intermediate nodes of a path when this can not be prevented due to necessary connectivity in the mesh network or due to predetermined guidelines. Also, in each routing message sent from source nodes to target nodes via various paths, a plurality of bits, preferably two bits, are used for the number of mesh nodes operating in the path in the energy-saving mode or are battery-operated when the remaining bits of the routing-message are used for the path metric.
US08638701B2
Embodiments of the present invention provide a method of reducing power consumption in a wireless network device, comprising determining a duration prior to a beacon being received by the device; comparing the duration against a predetermined value; and adjusting a duration of a sleep period in response to the comparison.
US08638697B2
A radio base station generates and assigns a different DL/UL transmission pattern to each terminal of a set of mobile terminals that are mutually unique patterns which allow each terminal to receive downlink system information thereon.
US08638696B1
A method and computer readable medium for providing Enterprise conferencing is provided. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a first SIP INVITE message is exchanged between a Media Gateway of the Enterprise and a first Media Server of a Conferencing Service Provider. Then, an Application Server of the Conferencing Service Provider establishes conference call resources at the Conferencing Service Provider. A first RTP session is established between the Media Gateway and the first Media Server, and then a PROMPT AND COLLECT message is sent from the Application Server to the first Media Server to gather data from the caller for establishing the Enterprise conferencing. After receipt of the data by the Application Server, an SIP INFO message is sent from the Application Server to a second Media Server of the Conferencing Service Provider, selecting the second Media Server to host the call.
US08638694B2
A network exploration apparatus is configured to calculate a communication cost of a network to which a plurality of terminals is coupled through a plurality of network devices. The network exploration apparatus includes a transmitter configured to transmit an exploration packet to the plurality of terminals, a receiver configured to receive a response packet for the exploration packet, a detector configured to detect a terminal group to which a terminal that does not receive the exploration packet among the plurality of terminals belongs based on a reception result of the response packet by the receiver, and a calculator configured to calculate a communication cost between terminals based on an inclusion relationship between a plurality of terminal groups detected by the detector when the transmitter repeatedly transmits the exploration packet.
US08638688B2
Characteristics of an unknown application on the wireless network are compared with characteristics of previously classified wireless applications. When the characteristics of the unknown application match those of a previously classified application, the bandwidth requirement associated with the matching previously classified application is allocated to the unknown application by the wireless network.
US08638687B2
Various embodiments are described to provide more efficient interworking in inter-technology networks. A first network node (121) provides access network service to remote units (101, e.g.) using a first access network technology, while a second network node provides access network service to remote units using a second and different access network technology. The first network node indicates to a networking device (122), what messaging associated with the second access network technology will be supported by a remote unit via the first network node. The networking device receiving this indication can then determine whether new messaging for the remote unit associated with the second access network technology and to be conveyed via the first network node, is supported. This networking device can then prevent the conveyance of the new messaging via the first network node.
US08638686B2
A cumulative buffer may be defined for an interference domain in a wireless mesh network and distributed among nodes in the network to maintain or improve capacity utilization of network resources in the interference domain without increasing packet queuing delay times. When an interference domain having communications links sharing resources in a network is identified, a cumulative buffer size is calculated. The cumulative buffer may be distributed among buffers in each node of the interference domain according to a simple division or according to a cost function taking into account a distance of the communications link from the source and destination. The network may be monitored and the cumulative buffer size recalculated and redistributed when the network conditions change.
US08638684B2
A method, computer program product, and apparatus are provided in which a request for a channel state information (CSI) report is received on a component carrier of a plurality of component carriers. The request indicates a set of component carriers of the plurality of component carriers for which to provide the CSI report. In addition, a CSI report including feedback for each of the indicated component carriers in the set of component carriers is transmitted. A method, computer program product, and apparatus are provided in which a request for a CSI report on a component carrier of a plurality of component carriers is transmitted. The request indicates a set of component carriers of the plurality of component carriers for which to receive the CSI report. In addition, a CSI report including feedback for each of the indicated component carriers in the set of component carriers is received.
US08638681B2
A method, an apparatus, and a computer program product are provided in which a signal is received on a resource, a signal quality of the signal is determined, a signal energy of the signal is determined, and the resource is jammed based on the signal quality and the signal energy by transmitting a signal on the resource.
US08638660B2
An apparatus is disclosed which according to an embodiment is configured to store a direct tunnel context. The direct tunnel context comprises a field or flag indicating whether or not a direct tunnel is established between the apparatus and a radio network, and further comprises at least one of a tunnel endpoint identifier and an address of a user plane of a serving node. The direct tunnel context optionally further comprises at least one of a tunnel endpoint identifier and an address of a user plane of a controller of the radio network. The apparatus may be a gateway or a gateway general packet radio service support node. The invention further provides a method, system, device and program suitable or configured to handle such direct tunnel contexts.
US08638653B2
Methods and devices of the invention relate to sending information over a wireless communications channel using an adaptive frame structure (AFS) having unequal error protection. Unequal error protection relates to a first data region of the frame being modulated with a first modulation and coding scheme (MCS) and a second data region of the frame being modulated with a different MCS typically with a higher modulation order. The first data region, modulated with a lower order MCS, may include critical data such as error checking and header/router information while the second region may include data payload for loss tolerant applications such as voice over Internet protocol (VoIP).
US08638650B2
A machine readable information storage medium, a reproducing method and apparatus which reproduces data from the storage medium, and a recording method and apparatus for recording data on the storage medium. The information storage medium includes a control area which stores within a data structure information usable by the recording or reproducing apparatus to record or reproduce the data on or from the storage medium. The information stored within the data structure includes a version corresponding to a specification, a revision number of recording speed, and an extended part version field.
US08638646B2
An optical information processing method and apparatus performs a light irradiating and receiving step, a signal processing step, and an adjusting step of a spherical aberration and a focus offset on the basis of shift amount of first and second control devices and a performance evaluation value. The performance evaluation values for first, second, third and fourth points in an x and y coordinate system are detected, in which an x-coordinate is one of the shift amount of the first control device and the shift amount of the second control device and a y-coordinate is the other, the first point, second and third points having the same y-coordinate and different x-coordinates with each other, the fourth point being provided on a first straight line passing through the first point and being different from the first point.
US08638640B2
Methods and transducers for producing acoustical signals having a spiral wavefront with omnidirectional magnitude and a phase that varies with angle and transducers for producing broadband omnidirectional reference signals for underwater navigation and communication.
US08638637B2
A memory controller having a time-staggered request signal output. A first timing signal is generated while a second timing signal is generated having a first phase difference relative to the first timing signal. An address value is transmitted in response to the first timing signal and a control value is transmitted in response to the second timing signal, the address value and control value constituting portions of a first memory access request.
US08638636B2
One embodiment of the technology is an apparatus, a memory integrated circuit. The memory integrated circuit has word line address decoding circuitry. The circuit allows selection of a single word line to have an erase voltage. A decoder circuit includes an inverter and logic. The inverter has an input, and an output controlling a word line to perform the erase operation. A voltage range of the input extends between a first voltage reference and a second voltage reference. Examples of voltages references are a voltage supply and a ground. In some embodiments, this wide voltage range results from the input being free of a threshold voltage drop from preceding circuitry limiting the voltage range of the input. The logic of the decoder is circuit is controlled by a word line address to determine a value of the input of the inverter during the erase operation.
US08638635B2
A semiconductor memory apparatus comprises first and second memory blocks each comprising semiconductor elements coupled to first and second local line groups, a first switching circuit configured to couple a first global line group to the first local line group of the first memory block in response to a block selection signal, a second switching circuit configured to couple a second global line group to the second local line groups of the first and second memory blocks in response to the block selection signal, and a third switching circuit configured to couple the first global line group to the first local line group of the second memory block in response to the block selection signal.
US08638631B2
A semiconductor device has an antifuse element and a measurement unit. The antifuse element stores information according to whether the antifuse element is in the broken or unbroken state. The measurement unit determines a resistance value related to the resistance value of the broken antifuse element.
US08638629B2
A memory apparatus is configured to generate refresh addresses with different values in response to one refresh command and an address, and perform a plurality of refresh operations with time differences in response to the refresh addresses. Herein, the refresh operations are performed within a refresh row cycle time.
US08638627B2
A semiconductor memory device is provided. The semiconductor memory device includes a cross-coupled latch type sense amplifier and a buffer that prevents mismatch. The buffer is formed between PMOS transistors and NMOS transistors of the sense amplifier so that mismatch for transistors operating in pair can be minimized.
US08638608B2
Methods and devices for operating non-volatile storage are disclosed. One or more programming conditions depend on the location of the word line that is selected for programming, which may reduce or eliminate program disturb. The voltage applied to the gate of a select transistor of a NAND string may depend on the location of the selected word line. This could be either a source side or drain side select transistor. This may prevent or reduce program disturb that could result due to DIBL. This may also prevent or reduce program disturb that could result due to GIDL. A negative bias may be applied to the gate of a source side select transistor when programming at least some of the word lines. In one embodiment, progressively lower voltages are used for the gate of the drain side select transistor when programming progressively higher word lines.
US08638589B2
An operating method for a memory unit is provided, wherein the memory unit includes a well region, a select gate, a first gate, a second gate, an oxide nitride spacer, a first diffusion region, and a second diffusion region. The operating method for the memory unit comprises the following steps. During a programming operation, a breakdown voltage is coupled to the second diffusion region through a first channel region formed under the select gate. A programming voltage is sequentially or simultaneously applied to the first gate and the second gate to rupture a first oxide layer and a second oxide layer, wherein the first oxide layer is disposed between the first gate and the well region, and the second oxide layer is disposed between the second gate and the well region.
US08638587B2
In one embodiment, the invention is a magnetic shift register memory device. One embodiment of a memory cell includes a magnetic column including a plurality of magnetic domains, a reader coupled to the magnetic column, for reading data from the magnetic domains, a temporary memory for storing data read from the magnetic domains, and a writer coupled to the magnetic column, for writing data in the temporary memory to the magnetic domains.
US08638585B2
A memory system is provided with a processor, a main memory, and a flash memory. Performance of the memory system is improved through achievement of speed-up and high data reliability. The memory system includes a nonvolatile memory device and a controller configured to drive a control program to control the nonvolatile memory device. The control program executes a second access operation for the nonvolatile memory device even before a first access operation to the nonvolatile memory device is completed.
US08638584B2
Embodiments of the invention relate generally to semiconductors and memory technology, and more particularly, to systems, integrated circuits, and methods to implement memory architectures configured to enhance throughput for cross point arrays including memory elements, such as memory elements based on third dimensional memory technology. In at least some embodiments, an integrated circuit includes arrays that include memory elements being formed BEOL above a FEOL logic layer within a boundary in a plane parallel to a substrate, and array lines. Further, the integrated circuit includes array line decoders disposed in the logic layer within a region located coextensive with the boundary and between the substrate and the arrays. In some embodiments, the disposition of peripheral circuitry, such as the array line decoders, under the arrays can preserve or optimize die efficiency for throughput enhancement.
US08638572B2
A power converter controller includes a drive circuit coupled to control switching of a power switch coupled to an energy transfer element and an input of the power converter. An output voltage sensor including first and second pulse sampler circuits is coupled to capture first and second peak voltages, respectively, that are representative of a second peak of a ringing voltage of a feedback signal representative of an output of the power converter. The first pulse sampler circuit is coupled to capture the first peak voltage at a first time in the feedback signal. The second pulse sampler circuit is coupled to capture the second peak voltage at a second time in the feedback signal. The drive circuit is coupled to receive a change signal from the output voltage sensor in response to the first and second peak voltages.
US08638560B2
A sliding apparatus for a dual slide-type portable communication device, which includes a locking unit selectively formed in sliding members and configured to restrict movement of a first sliding member in a direction substantially perpendicular to a lengthwise direction of a body housing when the first sliding member is slid in a lengthwise direction of the body housing and to restrict movement of the first and second sliding members when the first and second sliding members are slid in a direction substantially perpendicular to a lengthwise direction of the body housing. The body housing and a sliding housing configured to be slid on the body housing in a lengthwise direction of the body housing or in a direction substantially perpendicular to the lengthwise direction of the body housing.
US08638559B2
A cooling system for a memory module comprises a heat conduction assembly for conducting heat from the memory module to liquid-cooled mounting blocks. In one embodiment, each heat conduction assembly includes a frame having opposing first and second supports, first and second heat spreader plates each extending from the first support to the second support, and a pair of flattened heat pipes each extending along a respective one of the heat spreader plates from the first support to the second support. The liquid-cooled mounting blocks releasably support the heat conduction assembly over a memory module socket with the memory module between the heat spreader plates.
US08638558B2
In an electronic unit accommodated in a containing device so as to be adjacent to another electronic unit accommodated in the containing device, the electronic unit includes: a housing that is formed into a tub shape, that is provided with a plate comprising an air blowing hole, and that is closed by said another electronic unit when the electronic unit and the other electronic unit are accommodated in the containing device; and an interrupting portion that interrupts power supply to the electronic unit when said another electronic unit is detached from the containing device and the housing of the electronic unit is opened.
US08638556B2
In some aspects, a portable electronic device is provided having a slidable upper housing movable relative to a lower housing between an open position and a closed position, and a front bezel. The front bezel holds the components of the portable electronic device together and covers up at least some of the fasteners used to attach components of the portable electronic device.
US08638555B2
An exterior cover for a laptop computer having a display portion and a keyboard portion is disclosed. The exterior cover includes a first rigid planar element for placement on an outside surface of the display portion. The first rigid planar element includes a raised edge along a perimeter of the first rigid planar element, wherein the raised edge extends toward the display portion. The first rigid planar element further includes a plurality of tabs located on the raised edge, wherein each tab extends from the raised edge for gripping the display portion. The exterior cover further includes a second rigid planar element for placement on an outside surface of the keyboard portion. The second rigid planar element includes a raised edge extending toward the keyboard portion. The second rigid planar element further includes a plurality of tabs for gripping the keyboard portion.
US08638554B2
An air duct includes a top plate, two side plates extending from two lateral sides of the top plate, a baffle plate extending from the top plate and located between the side plates, and a torsion spring connected between the top plate and the baffle plate. The top plate and the side plates cooperatively define an air passage in the air duct. The baffle plate includes a first end pivotally connected with the top plate and an opposite second end. The second end of the baffle plate is rotatable relative to the top plate. The torsion spring includes two arms abutting against the top plate and the baffle plate, respectively. When the baffle plate is rotated relative to the top plate under an external force, the torsion spring resists such force.
US08638548B2
A device (10) for mounting behind a flat panel visual display (e.g. a television) (D) with a retractable means (17). The retractable means (17), in the form of a bay or tray, is extended to be accessible by a user when the flat panel display is mounted to a wall or the like.
US08638544B2
There are provided a reduction-resistant dielectric composition and a ceramic electronic component including the same. The reduction-resistant dielectric composition may include a BaTiO3-based matrix powder, 0.1 to 1.0 moles of a transition metal oxide or transition metal carbonates, based on 100 moles of the matrix powder, and 0.1 to 3.0 moles of a sintering aid including silicon oxide (SiO2). The ceramic electronic component including the reduction-resistant dielectric composition may have a high capacitance and superior reliability.
US08638540B2
A corona igniter (20) includes an ignition coil (26) providing a high voltage energy to an electrode. The coil (26) is disposed in a housing (34) and electrically isolated by a coil filler (36) and a capacitance reducing component (38) which together improve energy efficiency of the system. The coil filler (36) includes an insulating resin permeating the coil (26). The capacitance reducing component (38) has a permittivity not greater than 6, for example ambient air, pressurized gas, insulating oil, or a low permittivity solid. The capacitance reducing compound (38) surrounds the coil (26) and other components and fills the remaining housing volume. The coil filler (36) has a filler volume and the capacitance reducing component (38) has a component volume greater than the filler volume.
US08638533B2
A semiconductor device includes a first node receiving an external voltage, a second node receiving a grounding voltage, a protection circuit, and a device to be protected coupled in parallel between the first and second nodes, in which the protection circuit includes a lateral IGBT having an emitter coupled to the second node and an avalanche diode having an anode coupled to the collector of the lateral IGBT and a cathode coupled to the first node, and a clamp driving circuit coupled between the first and second nodes, and coupled to the gate of the lateral IGBT.
US08638531B2
A hybrid DC contactor includes contacts that provide a first current path between a DC power source and a load, an electromagnetic coil to position the contacts, a semiconductor switch in parallel with contacts that, when turned on, provides a second parallel current path that diverts current away from the contacts when the main contacts are being opened in either direction. A controller is provided to terminate power to the electromagnetic coil to open the contacts, detect an arc voltage across the contacts as the contacts open, provide a gate signal to the semiconductor switch to pulse the switch on for a pre-determined period of time to route current to the semiconductor switch, measure a current through the contacts and, if current is present through the contacts, then provide another gate signal to the semiconductor switch to pulse the switch on again so as to route current thereto.
US08638526B2
In a rotating device, a housing includes a cylindrical outer surface facing an inner surface of a through hole and a guiding surface arranged on the underside of the outer surface, the diameter of the guiding surface being less than the diameter of the outer surface. Glue has an interface in an end space. In at least a part of the end space where the glue does not exist, conductive resin seamlessly is applied from the guiding surface to the inner surface of the through hole. With regard to a portion of the inner surface of the through hole that radially faces the guiding surface, the length, in the axial direction, of the portion that touches the conductive resin is greater than the length, in the axial direction, of the portion that touches the glue.
US08638524B2
Approaches for a hard-disk drive (HDD) comprised within a sealed enclosure that is filled with a substantially helium gas are provided. The HDD may include a shroud that surrounds a majority of a perimeter of a magnetic-recording disk. The HDD may also include an upstream spoiler having one or more wings. The shape of the upstream spoiler diverts a flow of the substantially helium gas that circulates when the magnetic-recording disk is rotating from a magnetic-recording head to a plenum chamber. The plenum chamber has a mouth that allows a portion of the circulating flow of substantially helium gas to flow therein. The mouth of the plenum chamber is a gap in the shroud that is prior to the upstream spoiler in the circulating flow of the substantially helium gas. A portion of the plenum chamber is formed using a particle filter opposing the gap.
US08638515B2
A method includes, in at least one aspect, receiving a data set to be written onto a medium, identifying an index associated with the medium, identifying a first sector and a second sector of the medium, the first sector preceding the second sector, generating an error code for the data set based on the index and the first sector, and writing at least one of the data set or the generated error code into the second sector.
US08638509B2
A camera alignment system that can enable alignment in at least one of three planes and about an axis of at least one of the planes. An alignment mount can mate to a camera and lens. The alignment mount can comprise a mechanism to adjust the camera relative to the lens to that an image plane of the camera aligns with an image plane of the lens in a predetermined orientation. One predetermined orientation can be that the image plane of the camera being parallel to the image plane of the lens.
US08638504B2
Apparatus, methods, and systems provide emitting and negatively-refractive focusing of electromagnetic energy. In some approaches the negatively-refractive focusing includes negatively-refractive focusing from an interior field region with an axial magnification substantially greater than one. In some approaches the negatively-refractive focusing includes negatively-refractive focusing with a transformation medium, where the transformation medium may include an artificially-structured material such as a metamaterial.
US08638503B2
A zoom lens includes first to fifth lens groups having positive, negative, negative, positive, and positive refractive power, respectively. The third lens group includes a single negative meniscus lens with a concave surface on an object side, to move along the optical axis for focusing. When zooming from a wide angle end to a telephoto end, an interval between the first and second lens groups increases, an interval between the second and third lens groups increases, an interval between the third and fourth lens groups decreases, and an interval between the fourth and fifth lens groups decreases. The fourth and fifth lens groups are set to have a combined lateral magnification β45T to satisfy the following condition, when an object distance is infinite at a telephoto end: −0.041<β45T/Ft<−0.025 where Ft is a focal length of the entire zoom lens at the telephoto end.
US08638498B2
In embodiments of eyebox adjustment for interpupillary distance, a first optical lens receives light of an image from a display optic at a projected orientation of the light, and the first optical lens deviates the light of the image by a deviation angle from the projected orientation of the light. A second optical lens receives the light of the image from the first optical lens at the deviation angle, and the second optical lens alters the deviated light of the image back to the projected orientation of the light for viewing the image. Left and right eyeboxes align with respective left and right eyes that view the image, and a distance between the left and right eyeboxes approximately correlates to an interpupillary distance between the left and right eyes. The light of the image can be laterally shifted to increase or decrease the distance between the left and right eyeboxes.
US08638496B2
Liquid lens cells are used in a compound variable power optical system that forms an intermediate image between the object and the final image. A first variable power optical component is located between the object and an intermediate real image. The first variable power optical component varies power to change the magnification of the intermediate real image. A second variable power optical component is located between the intermediate real image and the final image. The second variable power optical component varies power to change the magnification of the final image. At least one of the first and second variable power optical components is stationary on the optical axis and comprises at least two liquids with different refractive properties and at least one variable shape contact surface between the two liquids, with variations in the shape of the contact surface producing a change of optical power in the optical system.
US08638491B2
A system and method for an optical component that masks non-active portions of a display and provides an electrical path for one or more display circuits. In one embodiment an optical device includes a substrate, a plurality of optical elements on the substrate, each optical element having an optical characteristic which changes in response to a voltage applied to the optical element, and a light-absorbing, electrically-conductive optical mask disposed on the substrate and offset from the plurality of optical elements, the optical mask electrically coupled to one or more of the optical elements to provide electrical paths for applying voltages to the optical elements. In another embodiment, a method of providing an electrical signal to optical elements of a display comprises electrically coupling an electrically-conductive light-absorbing mask to one or more optical elements, and applying a voltage to the mask to activate the one or more optical elements.
US08638482B2
An image forming apparatus, configured to extract additional information added to an original document and perform a processing according to a result of the extraction, inputs image data obtained by causing a scanner to read an image of the original document, converts color component of the input image data into a color component different from the color component of the additional information, and causes a printer to print image data having the converted color component as a document to which a user can add additional information.
US08638481B2
An optical writing control apparatus controls a light source to draw a correction pattern for correcting a parameter value of an image forming mechanism, detects the correction pattern transferred onto a conveyance member from a photosensitive member based on an output signal of a sensor, and corrects the parameter value based on the detected correction pattern; stores chromatic color progress information indicating a progress for a chromatic color mechanism corresponding to a chromatic color image occurring from when the correction operation was carried out and achromatic color progress information indicating a progress for an achromatic color mechanism corresponding to an achromatic color image occurring from when the correction operation was carried out; and stores a necessary threshold to determine that the correction operation is necessary and an unnecessary threshold to determine that the correction operation is unnecessary for the chromatic color progress information and the achromatic color progress information.
US08638472B2
A color space converting section of an image processing device waits to output when acquiring partial data including gray prior to partial data including a chromatic color. After starting to wait, when acquiring partial data including a chromatic color, the converting section outputs multi-color converted data as the converted data expressing gray by a combination of densities of the multiple colors with respect to the partial data its output has been waited. While, when the acquisition of the image data was completed without acquiring any partial data including a chromatic color, the converting section outputs a single black color converted data as the converted data expressing gray by a density of a single color black with respect to the partial data its output has been waited. When acquiring partial data including a chromatic color, then the converting section converts partial data acquired thereafter into the multi-color converted data.
US08638461B2
An image forming apparatus and a method for providing a user interface (UI) screen of the image forming apparatus are provided. The image forming apparatus receives a UI screen to be displayed on a display unit thereof from a web server that is connected to a web browser of the image forming apparatus. In some embodiments, a UI screen corresponding to screen information of the display unit and apparatus information of the image forming apparatus is received from the web server and displayed.
US08638460B2
A data transfer device includes a serial interface including plural transmission paths and carrying out a data transfer operation with plural operating frequencies, transfer requesting units issuing a data transfer request to the serial interface, a request monitoring unit, a condition setting unit setting a set transmission path condition including at least one of a number of the transmission paths and an operating frequency used when the data transfer requests are issued to switch statuses of the data transfer requests to statuses of switching data transfer requests, a use transmission path condition determining unit determining the set transmission path condition corresponding to the status of the switching data transfer request as a use transmission path condition when the status of switching data transfer request corresponds to the status of data transfer request by comparing the statuses, and a switching unit switching to the use transmission path condition.
US08638459B2
A network connection method of an image forming apparatus to support wired and wireless network interfaces includes receiving a destination address, attempting to connect to a destination corresponding to the destination address by using each of the wired and wireless network interfaces, determining a network interface connectable to the destination, according to a result of the attempt, and transmitting data to the destination by using the connectable network interface.
US08638456B2
An image processing apparatus communicatable with other image processing apparatus, determines whether the other image processing apparatus has image data corresponding to application data and whether the image data is processible itself. If the apparatus determines the other apparatus has the image data and the data is processible itself, the apparatus acquires the image data from the other apparatus. If the image processing apparatus determines the other apparatus does not have the image data or the data is not processible, the apparatus acquires the application data from the other apparatus. When the application data is acquired, the image processing apparatus converts the data into image data of a printable data format. Then, the converted image data or the acquired image data is printed.
US08638452B2
A chassis measuring system comprises an illumination device for producing a structured illumination (38, 58, 78, 98), which is developed in such a way that it produces a structured image on a measuring head (32, 52; 72, 92) situated opposite in the transverse vehicle direction, a reference surface (40, 60, 80, 100) facing in the same direction as the illumination device (38, 58, 78, 98), on which a structured image produced by an illumination device (38, 58; 78, 98) of the measuring head (32, 52; 72, 92) situated opposite in the transverse vehicle direction may be projected, and at least one measuring camera (34, 36; 54, 56; 74, 76; 94, 96) facing in the same direction as the illumination device (38, 58, 78, 98), which is developed in such a way that it detects the structured image on the reference surface (40, 60; 80, 100) of the opposite measuring head (32, 52; 72, 92) in order to determine the position parameters of the measuring head (32, 52, 72, 92).
US08638451B2
A system for determining a location on a 2D surface or in a 3D volume. The system includes a probe and a tracker. The probe includes a marker, an indicator, and a reflective surface, wherein the probe is configured so the reflective surface forms a virtual image of the marker having an apparent location coincident to a location of the indicator. The tracker configured to measure the apparent location of the virtual image of the marker.
US08638442B2
A substrate of a target substance detection element to be used for a detection apparatus for detecting a target substance, utilizing surface plasmon resonance, comprises a base and a metal structure arranged on the surface of the base in a localized manner or a metal film having an aperture and arranged on the surface of the base, the metal structure or the aperture, whichever appropriate, having at least either of a loop section and a crossing section.
US08638438B2
An alignment feature disposed on a substrate, the alignment feature including a first lithographic pattern having a first aggregate geometric center point defined by a first sub-pattern comprising alignment marks having a first sub-pattern geometric center point arranged a distance (d0) in a first direction from the first aggregate geometric center point, and a second sub-pattern comprising alignment marks having a second sub-pattern geometric center point arranged the distance d0 in a reciprocal direction of the first direction from the first aggregate geometric center point.
US08638437B2
A system and method of use thereof that enables determining and setting sample alignment based on the location of, and geometric attributes of a monitored image formed by reflection of an electromagnetic beam from a sample and into an image monitor, which beam is directed to be incident onto the sample along a locus which is substantially normal to the surface of the sample.
US08638435B2
The disclosure relates to bioassays, as well as related devices and methods for detecting targets. The targets may be molecules and/or biological products that a user is interested in analyzing to determine information such as their presence and/or concentration in a sample.
US08638434B2
Technologies are generally described for systems and methods for detecting chiral properties of materials and separating materials based on their chiral properties. A chiral vector is constructed from anisotropy properties of a polarization-dependent output signal from a sample. Different types of molecules from the sample can be differentiated based on a magnitude of the chiral vector. Chiral properties of the sample can be detected based on an angle of the chiral vector. The output signal can be a fluorescent emission from the sample and can be used to detect chiral properties of a substantially opaque sample.
US08638433B1
A spectrophotometer including a light tube having a spectrophotometer head mounted to one end of the light tube and a diffraction grating head mounted to the opposite end. The spectrophotometer head having a bore therethrough for receiving incoming light from a light source providing a light path through the spectrophotometer head and light tube; Further, a slit is disposed in the light path and a vial of colored liquid is suspended halfway through the light path. The diffraction grating includes a bore aligned with the light path and includes a focusing lens and a diffraction grating disposed in the light path. The diffraction grating displaying a spectrum with an upper half displaying the spectrum of the light transmitted through the colored liquid and the lower half displaying the spectrum of the light source.
US08638428B2
Failure events detected by a laser surgery monitoring feedback circuit are analyzed in order to distinguish between events that result from fiber breakdown and those arising from other sources, such as burning of tissues. If the number of failure events within a predetermined time exceeds a predetermined count, then it is determined that the radiation is the result of fiber breakdown. If the number of failure events within the predetermined time is less than the predetermined count, then it is determined that the failure events result from other causes, such as heating of tissues by the laser. Based on the analysis, an override switch or alarm may be initiated.
US08638405B2
A backlight module is disclosed, which includes an outer frame having a sidewall and a hole formed on the sidewall, an inner frame disposed inside of the outer frame, and an adhesive device. The inner frame includes a block wall and a support. The block wall has an inner surface, an outer surface, and a breakable section. The outer surface is in contact with the sidewall, and the breakable section is disposed corresponding to the hole. The adhesive device is disposed on the support.
US08638403B2
A liquid crystal display device is provided which has a pair of substrates and a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between the pair of substrates, in which liquid crystal molecules are vertically aligned with respect to the substrates when no voltage is applied between the substrates and the liquid crystal molecules tilt in a plurality of directions to be almost parallel to the substrates by applying a voltage between the substrates. In the liquid crystal layer, when the voltage is applied, a proportion of a region where the liquid crystal molecules tilt in a direction of 0 degrees to 180 degrees is different from a proportion of a region where the liquid crystal molecules tilt in a direction of 180 degrees to 360 degrees with the angle being defined counterclockwise with the right direction on a screen being 0 degrees.
US08638402B2
A stereoscopic display includes: a display panel configured to display an image in either one of two or more arrangement states including a first arrangement state and a second arrangement state which are switchable with each other; and a lens array device arranged to face a display surface of the display panel. The lens array device produces a lens effect in a direction, the direction of effect being changed between in the first arrangement state and in the second arrangement state. The display panel includes an array of a plurality of sub-pixels, and a combination of sub-pixels used as a unit pixel is changed between in the first arrangement state and in the second arrangement state.
US08638387B2
A sighting system is disclosed, comprising a housing with small upper mirror mounted in its upper center, redirecting light from a single objective lens set, and a larger lower mirror mounted coaxially relative to the lens set and upper mirror, both mirrors set at 45° and redirecting light at 90° angles to the lens set. The smaller mirror is positioned closer than the lower mirror to the lens set. A night camera system is used for receiving an image through the lens set redirected by the lower mirror and amplified through an intensifier before transmission to a video display monitor(s). A day camera system receiving the image from the lens set redirected by the smaller mirror transmits the image to the monitor(s) for separate display of the image, enabling simultaneous capture of the optimum amount of light by each camera, maximizing the housing's diametrical space to receive incoming light.
US08638381B2
A backside illumination image sensor equipped with a plurality of pixels disposed in a two-dimensional pattern, includes: image-capturing pixels; and focus detection pixels.
US08638371B2
A method of manipulating assets on a touch-sensitive display. The method includes showing a camera and a field of view of the camera on the touch-sensitive display. The method further includes detecting contact with the camera or the field of view of the camera on the touch-sensitive display, and manipulating the camera based on a gesture conducted on the camera or the field of view of the camera shown on the touch-sensitive display.
US08638360B2
A method adjusts the sensitivity of an image sensor, and includes: adjusting an integration duration of the image sensor between a minimum duration and an image frame duration, receiving from the image sensor a frame signal, and amplifying the frame signal by applying an adjusted amplification gain between different minimum and maximum gain values. For each frame of the frame signal, if an integration duration, calculated as a function of an average value of the frame signal, is comprised between the minimum duration and a maximum duration equal to several times the frame duration, the method establishes the integration duration at the integration duration calculated and maintains the amplification gain at a fixed value, otherwise it maintains the integration duration at the minimum or maximum duration and adjusts the amplification gain between the minimum and maximum values as a function of the average value.
US08638359B2
In a display apparatus and a driving method thereof, a detector determines whether a timing controller is operated in a three-dimensional (3D) mode or a two-dimensional (2D) mode to output a first or second mode signal according to a result of the determination. A compensator compensates for a gamma value of a 3D image to be increased in response to a first mode signal when the 2D mode is converted to the 3D mode and decreases an increased gamma value to a gamma value for a 2D image in response to a second mode signal when the 3D mode is converted to the 2D mode.
US08638358B2
Color-coded backlighted single camera three-dimensional defocusing particle image velocimetry system
Three-Dimensional Defocusing Particle Image Velocimetry (3DDPIV) allows for measurement of three-dimensional velocities within a volume. In the disclosed embodiment, a mask with a plurality of apertures is disposed with a lens between the test section and a color camera. The field-of-view is backlit and the test section is seeded with black particles. This configuration allows for a lower power light source as compared to conventional 3DDPIV. Color-coded particle images are formed on a white background, wherein each of the color images is generated from light that travels through the filters not blocked by the imaged particle, thereby producing a color image that is of a color different from the color of any of the filters. A color space linear transformation is used to allow for accurate identification of each pinhole exposure when the color filters' spectrum does not match those of the 3-CCD color camera.
US08638352B2
An exposure device of an aspect of the present invention includes an exposure unit that is provided between a body to be exposed and a component and that exposes the body to be exposed; and an electrical connection member that is electrically connected to a connecting portion disposed in the exposure unit and includes a first bent portion formed by bending the electrical connection member at an outer side of a clearance between the body to be exposed and the component and a second bent portion formed by bending the electrical connection member on an opposite side of the exposure unit with respect to the first bent portion.
US08638346B2
A source line driver circuit and a display apparatus including the same are provided. The source line driver circuit includes a logic block configured to receive serialized image data, to change the number of bits of the image data, and to output image data having the changed number of bits, and a source channel driver unit configured to receive the image data having the changed number of bits and to provide at least one analog voltage corresponding to the received image data to source lines. Accordingly, the number of necessary switches may be reduced, and therefore, the required area and/or current consumption may also be reduced.
US08638335B2
An information processing apparatus includes a storage unit configured to store information representing a plurality of screens in each of a plurality of groups to which priorities are previously set, a determination unit configured to determine a group which is assigned the highest priority, and a control unit configured to display on a display unit a representative screen of the group assigned the highest priority.
US08638323B2
Disclosed is a system and method for correcting a gamma for shortening a gamma correction time period and improving gamma correction efficiency and reliability thereof, and simplifying a gamma correction device for reducing a production cost of image display devices.
US08638302B2
An apparatus including a first surface having at least one display, a second surface having at least one display, and a third surface having at least one display. The first, second and third surface form an outer surface of the apparatus, the outer surface being generally of a triangular shape.
US08638301B2
Systems and methods for transmitting haptic messages are disclosed. For example, one disclosed method includes the steps of: receiving at least one sensor signal from at least one sensor of a mobile device, the at least one sensor signal associated with a movement of the mobile device, determining a message to be displayed in a user interface based at least in part on the at least one sensor signal, and causing the message to be displayed.
US08638300B2
A method (300) in an electronic device (100) having a touch sensitive display (102) for searching entries in a stored list includes presenting (302) a reference character set as reference character ranges on an A by B matrix (103) of touch sensitive keys (120,121,122,123,124,125). Upon actuating a touch sensitive key having a reference character range presented thereon, the touch sensitive keys (120,121,122,123,124,125) are reconfigured to present (306) a secondary reference character set having alphanumeric characters within the reference character range presented on the touch sensitive key prior to actuation. Upon actuating a touch sensitive key having an alphanumeric character presented thereon, the alphanumeric character is added (308) to a search string indicator (111). Soft keys (104,105) and a soft key identification line (106) may be used in conjunction with the A by B matrix (103).
US08638292B2
A terminal apparatus includes a display displaying a plurality of display elements representing options on a display screen, an image-capturing section capturing an image of an operator who is viewing the display screen, a face position detector detecting the position of a facial image of the operator in a captured image, and a controller controlling the display to move the plurality of display elements in a predetermined direction on the display screen and to sequentially update and display the display elements when it is detected that the facial image of the operator in the captured image is outside of a predetermined range, and to stop the movement of the plurality of display elements when it is detected that the facial image falls within the predetermined range.
US08638289B2
A driving method includes: dividing a unit period into a plurality of sub-frame periods corresponding to the primary colors; writing a primary color component in each sub-frame period by a first scan executed on the plurality of pixels; irradiating, in each sub-frame period, the plurality of pixels with the corresponding primary color of light by the irradiation unit at a timing that is after the first scan and before the first scan of a subsequent sub-frame period; and waiting a wait period that is from when the first scan of one primary color component among the at least three colors ends until when the irradiation unit starts irradiating the one primary color of light, the wait period for the one primary color being different from wait periods for the other colors.
US08638288B2
A Red, Green, Blue Light Emitting Device (RGB LED) backlight color control system includes an RGB LED backlight comprising a red LED, a green LED, and a blue LED. A driving current regulator is coupled to each of the red LED, the green LED, and the blue LED. A backlight power control is coupled to each of the driving current regulators and operable to receive adjustment data and use the adjustment data to adjust the driving current supplied by at least one of the driving current regulators to at least one of the red LED, the green LED, and the blue LED. By adjusting the driving current supplied to the red LED, green LED, and/or the blue LED, color pallet points on a color triangle (associated with a display that uses the RGB LED backlight) are shifted to achieve the color desired by the user, avoiding the loss of color pallet points in the color triangle that occurs with conventional re-mapping techniques.
US08638285B2
A display device is provided with a display panel; first to n-th cascade-connected drivers (n being an integer of two or more); a controller transmitting compressed image data to the first driver. The i-th driver of the first to n-th drivers includes a drive circuitry driving the display panel; a first bus adapted to data transfer to the (i+1)-th driver of the first to n-th drivers; a second bus adapted to data transfer to the driver circuitry; and a decompression section receiving the compressed image data from the (i−1)-th driver of the first to n-th drivers or the controller. The decompression section of the i-th driver transfers the received compressed image data to the (i+1)-th driver through the first bus thereof, when the received compressed image data are not associated with the i-th driver. When the received compressed image data are associated with the i-th driver, the decompression section of the i-th driver decompresses the received compressed image data to generate decompressed image data and feeds the decompressed image data to the drive circuitry through the second bus. The drive circuitry drives the display panel in response to the decompressed image data.
US08638275B2
An incandescent light source display includes a substrate, a plurality of first electrode down-leads, a plurality of second electrode down-leads and a plurality of heating units. The plurality of first electrode down-leads are located on the substrate in parallel to each other and the plurality of second electrode down-leads are located on the substrate in parallel to each other. The first electrode down-leads cross the second electrode down-leads and corporately define a grid having a plurality of cells. Each of the incandescent light sources is located in correspondence with each of the cells. Each incandescent light source includes a first electrode, a second electrode and an incandescent element. The incandescent element includes a carbon nanotube structure.
US08638273B2
An antenna and method of making the same is disclosed wherein the antenna includes a seal assembly comprising a seal plate to prevent material used to form a seal around the conductor element from entering into the air gap of the antenna body.
US08638271B2
A multi-band antenna includes a dielectric substrate, and a main antenna member and a metal piece disposed on the dielectric substrate. The main antenna member includes a feed-in portion for feeding with a radio frequency signal, a first conductor arm connected to the feed-in portion and adjacent to a first side edge of the dielectric substrate, a second conductor arm connected to the feed-in portion and having a length shorter than that of the first conductor arm, a third conductor arm connected to the feed-in portion, a fourth conductor arm extending along the third conductor arm, and a grounding portion adjacent to the feed-in portion. The metal piece is disposed at the first side edge and connected to the fourth conductor arm, resonates and couples with the first conductor arm to form a first radiator section, and cooperates with the fourth conductor arm to form a second radiator section.
US08638269B2
A non-planar, ultra-wide band, quasi-self-complementary feed antenna is disclosed. The antenna provides an invariant phase center location over its entire frequency band, is compact and includes a low profile, and includes input matching better than is currently available over a decade of frequency bandwidth. The very compact feed couples dual polarization electromagnetic energy to a transmitter from free space or air with minimum losses and mismatches over a very wide frequency band.
US08638258B2
A GNSS enabled mobile device receives GNSS assistance data in a determined format from a central processing station communicatively coupled to a wide area reference network (WARN). The WARN comprises a first plurality of GNSS tracking stations from which usable signals are received by the central processing station, and a second plurality of GNSS tracking stations from which unusable or no signals are received by the central processing station. The central processing station generates the GNSS assistance data using a complete set of GNSS reference feeds of the WARN. The complete set of GNSS reference feeds comprises actual GNSS reference feeds from the first plurality of GNSS tracking stations and virtual GNSS reference feeds derived for the second plurality of GNSS tracking stations from processed actual GNSS reference feeds. The generated GNSS assistance data is reformatted into a determined format and is communicated to the GNSS enabled mobile device, accordingly.
US08638246B2
A method for encoding an input sequence of symbols as a plurality of codewords including primary codewords and secondary codewords, and a method of decoding the plurality of codewords. The codewords are output as a bitstream including an associated codeword type indicator, which specifies whether its associated plurality of consecutive codewords includes at least one secondary codeword and, if so, the location of the first of the at least one secondary codewords. The decoder selects between a primary codeword decoding tree and a secondary codeword decoding tree, and decodes one of the plurality of codewords using the selected decoding tree.
US08638236B2
A method of wireless communication includes transmitting configuration information to a tactile pressure sensor apparatus, receiving pressure sensor data from the tactile pressure sensor apparatus based on the configuration information, and providing the received tactile pressure sensor data to a user.
US08638232B2
Verbal warning labels and other audible warning systems for use with different devices, containers, products and other things in various environments are disclosed herein. An audible warning system configured in accordance with an embodiment of the invention includes a device having a standardized textual warning associated therewith, and a sound playback system operably coupled to the device. The sound playback device can be configured to audibly output a verbal warning corresponding to the textual warning. The verbal warning can be provided by at least one of a manufacturer, supplier, distributor or retail vendor of the device, and the verbal warning can supplement or replace the standardized textual warning.
US08638224B2
A refrigerator may include a main body having a storage chamber formed therein, a cooling device for cooling the storage chamber, and a door for opening and closing the storage chamber. A basket may be installed at the door and a pressure sensor may be provided on the basket to detect a pressure applied by a storage item stored in the basket. A controller may output a control signal based on the pressure detected by the pressure sensor to a display that displays a residual amount of the item stored in the refrigerator.
US08638209B1
A traffic control board assembly as a self-contained unit is provided for mounting in an emergency response vehicle in a manner that accommodates deployment of a traffic control board above the top surface of the emergency response vehicle in any desired angular orientation about a vertical axis for visibility from any direction in relation to the emergency response vehicle. When docked, the top cover on the traffic board provides a weatherproof cover. Manual input and programmed control of a liftable rotation assembly on which the traffic board is mounted facilitate convenient and simple operation. A motion signal indicative of the emergency response vehicle moving can prevent deployment of the traffic control board and/or initiate returning it to a docked or stowed position.
US08638207B2
A vehicle computer interface and software upgrade tool is in the form of a module. A base module contains basic vehicle interface, information and software. Additional modules can be connected to the base module or similar modules to provide a user or technician with the latest interface and software upgrades for vehicles, new vehicle data and new reprogramming features for existing vehicles. This is an expandable system which enables a user of technician to only purchase a relatively small module or component that contains the new interface or information rather than having to repurchase an entire new scan tool or vehicle analyzer. The modules are readily connectable to a vehicle's data port, commonly known as an OBD II connector or port. The modules also include additional connection ports for power in, power out, USB and/or pin connectors which provide for the export of data and other connectors. These modules can also be used in conjunction with an intelligent cable. The intelligent cable has a small computer embedded within the cable to enable sensitive electronic components to be used without cable transmission losses or electrical disturbances.
US08638203B2
An alarm system for an articulated vehicle includes a first part adapted to attach to a vehicular hitch member, and a second part adapted to attach to a trailering hitch member. The first part includes a conductive post extending vertically between first and second electrical contacts. The post and the first and second electrical contacts form parts of an alarm circuit. The second part includes first and a second arms horizontally extending towards the post in a common plane at an angle with respect to each other. When attached, the first and second parts are disposed so that the first arm moves the post into contact with the first electrical contact as the articulated vehicle turns in a first direction, and so that the second arm moves the post into contact with the second electrical contact as the articulated vehicle turns in a second direction opposite the first direction.
US08638198B2
An exemplary method includes a universal remote control device detecting user input requesting that the universal remote control device be operated in a learning mode, initiating, in response to the user input, operation of the universal remote control device in the learning mode, receiving, during the operation of the universal remote control device in the learning mode, a device code via an inter-device communication, and automatically configuring, in response to the receiving of the device code via the inter-device communication, the universal remote control device for remotely controlling a target device associated with the device code. Corresponding systems, methods, and apparatuses are also disclosed.
US08638191B2
A system for providing wireless remote control over one or more devices. Included in the system is at least one wireless button that can be placed at various locations and which communicates with at least one sensor when the wireless button and sensor are brought within close proximity to one another. According to one embodiment, a wireless button can only be activated when the button is located within an authorized activation area. In another embodiment, a wireless button can only be activated by an authorized user. In yet a further embodiment, a wireless button can only be activated by an authorized user when the button is located within an authorized activation area.
US08638184B2
An arc chute for a DC circuit breaker is disclosed which includes at least one stack of a plurality of substantially parallel metal plates, the at least one stack defining a first axis A in parallel to a stacking direction; an arc space adapted to allow an arc to extend along the first axis, wherein a second axis traversing in parallel to the metal plates the at least one stack and the arc space substantially orthogonal to the first axis. Further, an arc-chute housing having at least one side wall, the at least one side wall being substantially parallel to the second axis, wherein the distance between the at least one sidewall and the metal plates is, for example, less than 5 mm, such as less than 2 mm.
US08638182B2
A power multiplier and method are provided. The power multiplier includes a power multiplying network that is a multiply-connected, velocity inhibiting circuit constructed from a number of lumped-elements. The power multiplier also includes a launching network, and a directional coupler that couples the launching network to the power multiplying network. The power multiplier provides for power multiplication at nominal power generation frequencies such as 50 Hertz, 60 Hertz, and other power frequencies, in a compact circuit.
US08638181B2
A Guanella type balun with a conductive enclosure (for example, a re-entrant box) between its coupled lines and the magnetic material enclosing its coupled lines. Some embodiments use coupled strip lines. Some embodiments have dielectric material, such as printed circuit board material inside the re-entrant box along with the coupled strip lines. Preferably, the magnetic material is ferrimagnetic. Some preferred magnetic materials are non-conductive.
US08638178B1
Methods of testing packaged thin-film piezoelectric-on-semiconductor (TPoS) microelectromechanical resonators having hermetic seals include measuring a quality factor (Q) of resonance of the packaged resonator at at least two unequal temperatures to determine whether a ΔQ/ΔT is significantly different (e.g, by at least 50%) over a temperature range (ΔT) spanning a smallest and largest of the at least two temperatures. These measurements are performed for a packaged resonator having a QAIR
US08638175B2
A circuit including a first oscillator configured to oscillate at a first frequency; a second oscillator configured to oscillate at a second frequency, the second frequency being different from and one of a harmonic or sub-harmonic of the first frequency; and a coupling between the first oscillator and the second oscillator configured to injection lock at least one of the first oscillator and second oscillator to the other of the first oscillator and second oscillator.
US08638165B2
A switched-capacitor DC blocking amplifier is disclosed. In an embodiment, an integrated circuit is provided that includes an amplifier having an amplifier input and an amplifier output, a capacitor connected to the amplifier input and configured to receive an input signal, and a switched capacitor circuit coupled to provide a resistance between the amplifier input and the amplifier output. In one implementation, the switched capacitor circuit is configured with a feed forward circuit to reduce aliasing. In another implementation, the switched capacitor circuit includes a switched impedance circuit to reduce noise.
US08638164B2
An amplifier and a display driving circuit. The amplifier includes an input stage, a bias stage and an output stage. The input stage determines voltage levels of two nodes in correspondence to two input voltages received in response to a first bias voltage, and includes four path selecting switches, two input transistors and one bias transistor. The bias stage generates two class AB output voltages which correspond to the voltage levels of the two nodes, and includes current mirrors, ten path selecting switches, class AB bias circuits and two bias transistors. The output stage generates an output voltage VOUT that corresponds to the two class AB output voltages, and includes two coupling capacitors and two push-pull transistors. The plurality of path selecting switches operate by one signal of a first path selecting signal and a second path selecting signal that are exclusively enabled with respect to each other.
US08638160B2
An integrated circuit (100) in which a voltage divider circuit is integrated comprises a first resistor (121), second resistor (122), control portion (130), switch (140), and switching portion (150). The first resistor (121) and second resistor (122) form a resistive voltage divider element for dividing a voltage obtained by rectifying an alternating-current voltage, or a direct-current voltage, supplied to a control portion (130). The switch (140) is provided in series with the resistive voltage divider element, and passes or cuts off current passing through the resistive voltage divider element. The switching portion (150) switches the switch (140) so as to pass current during driving of the control portion (130), and cut off current during standby of the control portion (130).
US08638151B2
Groups of phase shifted Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) signals are generated that maintain their duty-cycle and phase relationships as a function of the period of the PWM signal frequency. The multiphase PWM signals are generated in a ratio-metric fashion so as to greatly simplify and reduce the computational workload for a processor used in a PWM system. The groups of phase shifted PWM signals may also be synchronized with and automatically scaled to match external synchronization signals.
US08638150B2
A circuit can compensate for intra pair skew or mode conversion in a channel by applying a second or corrective mode conversion effect that counters the channel's mode conversion. The circuit can process the common mode signal with a frequency dependent filter prior to injection back into the differential mode. The circuit can implement the reverse mode conversion with passive circuits using integrated resistors and metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) switches. In certain embodiments, such actions can proceed effectively without necessarily consuming active power.
US08638149B1
Aspects of the invention provide for equalizing rise and fall slew rates at an output for a buffer. In one embodiment, a method includes: measuring, simultaneously, rise and fall slew rates at an input of the buffer and rise and fall slew rates at the output of the buffer; generating a slew reference based on at least one of the rise slew rate or the fall slew rate at the input of the buffer; comparing the rise slew rate and the fall slew rate at the output of the buffer to the slew reference; and generating at least one of a rise control signal or a fall control signal for adjusting at least one of the rise slew rate or the fall slew rate at the output of the buffer.
US08638148B2
This document discusses, among other things, a system and method for reducing electromagnetic interference of a switched signal. In an example, a switched input signal can be received at an input and a transition rate of an edge rate controlled, switched output signal can be controlled in response to the received switched input signal.
US08638137B2
A semiconductor device includes a delay unit configured to delay an inputted clock to generate a delay clock, a selection unit configured to select and output one of the inputted clock and the delay clock, a delay locked loop configured to perform a delay locking operation using a signal delivered from the selection unit, and a selection control unit configured to control the selection unit in response to a comparison of one period of the inputted clock and a maximum delay value of the delay locked loop.
US08638134B2
A gate drive circuit capable of operating at high speed and with low loss without erroneously operating the switching element is provided with a small number of components and a simple and easy circuit configuration. A primary side of a transformer is connected to an output terminal of a low-side gate drive circuit, and a secondary side of the transformer is connected to a gate input side of a high-side switching element. As a positive gate drive voltage is output from the low-side drive circuit, a negative voltage is applied between the gate and source of a high-side switching element, and a gate voltage is suppressed to be equal to or lower than a threshold value. Therefore, the high-side switching element maintains a turn-off state when the low-side switching element is turned on.
US08638123B2
A circuit in which a storage function and an arithmetic function are combined is proposed by using a transistor with low off-state current for forming a storage element. When the transistor with low off-state current is used, electric charge can be held, for example, in a node or the like between a source or a drain of the transistor with low off-state current and a gate of another transistor. Thus, the node or the like between one of the source or the drain of the transistor with low off-state current and the gate of the another transistor can be used as a storage element. In addition, leakage current accompanied by the operation of an adder can be reduced considerably. Accordingly, a signal processing circuit consuming less power can be formed.
US08638121B2
A device is disclosed herein, which may be used a level-shift circuit. The device includes first, second and third power supply lines supplied respectively with first, second and third power voltages that are different from one another, first and second input terminals and an output terminal, an output circuit coupled to the first power supply line, the first and second input terminals and the output terminal, a first inverter including an input node coupled to the first input terminal and an output node coupled to the second input terminal, a first transistor coupled in series to the first inverter between the second and third power supply lines, the first transistor being rendered non-conductive to deactivate the first inverter, and a control circuit configured to prevent the output terminal from being brought into an electrical floating state during deactivation of the first inverter.
US08638110B2
There is provided a high resolution circuit for converting a capacitance-to-time deviation including a capacitance deviation detecting unit generating two detection signals having a phase difference corresponding to variations of capacitance of an micro electro mechanical system (MEMS) sensor; a capacitance deviation amplifying unit dividing frequencies of the two detection signals to amplify the phase difference corresponding to the capacitance deviation; and a time signal generating unit generating a time signal having a pulse width corresponding to the amplified phase difference.
US08638092B2
This disclosure is directed to current sensing techniques for use within a magnetic current sensor. According to one aspect of the disclosure, a current sensing device includes a magnetic core, and a magnetic field sensor positioned substantially within a cavity formed by an air gap interface of the magnetic core and configured to sense a magnetic field induced by an electrical current that is conducted through a conductor passing through a central opening of the magnetic core.
US08638090B2
A sensor system method of production includes forming first and second structures of the magnetoresistive system, heating the first and second structures, applying a magnetic field in a reference direction to the first and second structures, and cooling the first and second structures to fix a reference magnetization in the first and second structures in the reference direction. The structures are heated to near or above a blocking temperature, whereby the shape anisotropy of the first structure forces the reference magnetization to rotate into a first new orientation and the shape anisotropy of the second structure forces the reference magnetization to rotate into a second new orientation whereby the reference magnetization in the first and second structures rotate in opposite directions. The rotated reference magnetizations of the first and second structures are pinned in the respective new orientation.
US08638083B2
A control module includes a control unit that is configured to control an electrically adjustable item of furniture, and a switched mode power supply that is configured to supply the control unit. The control unit and power supply are integrated into a common housing. The switched mode power supply is configured to be switched to an idle operating state depending on a ready signal. The switched mode power supply includes, in a second stage, a switched mode regulator component, the supply voltage of which is made available in the idle operating state by a starting circuit in a clocked manner. The starting circuit has an energy store and a resistive element. The energy store and the resistive element are dimensioned so that, in the idle operating state, an interval for charging the energy is longer than an interval for discharging the energy store by the switched mode regulator component.
US08638081B2
Point-of-load (POL) regulators may be configured as multiphase POL DC-to-DC (direct current to direct current) converters, operating in a multiphase configuration in order to boost the total current available to a system. Current balancing may be performed by utilizing an active low bandwidth current sharing algorithm that uses matched artificial line resistance (droop resistance) while maintaining multi-loop stability during both steady-state and dynamic transient states. The current sharing algorithm may be facilitated through digital communication between the devices, where the digital bus may be a single wire bus, a parallel bus or a clock-and-data bus.
US08638078B2
A voltage clamping circuit which operates in a stable manner and a switching power source device which enables high-speed operation. In the switching power source device, one source/drain route is connected to an input terminal to which an input voltage is supplied, a predetermined voltage to be restricted is supplied to a gate, and using a MOSFET which provides a current source between another source/drain route and a ground potential of the circuit, a clamp output voltage which corresponds to the input voltage is obtained from another source/drain route. The switching power source device further includes a first switching element which controls a current in an inductor and a second switching element which clamps a reverse electromotive voltage generated in the inductor. The voltage clamping circuit is used in a feedback route for setting a dead time.
US08638074B2
Apparatus and associated methods involve a controllable supply adapted for controlling switch phasing and pulse width to substantially equalize power in adjacent quadrants of a sinusoidal source voltage waveform to regulate reactive power drawn from the source. In an illustrative example, the supply may, in some embodiments, deliver power to a load at a level responsive to a commanded input signal. In some examples, the power supplied to the load may be adjusted according to the command input signal to a selected value within an operating range. In some examples, the operating range may include a portion or all of 0 to 100% of rated load. Various embodiments may be adapted to supply unipolar or bipolar load excitation. In some embodiments, high power factor may be maintained over a substantial range of commanded power to the load. Certain embodiments may enhance supply efficiency by capturing and recycling inductive load energy.
US08638072B2
An apparatus may comprise first circuitry arranged to draw current from a charging source at multiple current levels and second circuitry arranged to determine a charging current capacity of the charging source using the first circuitry.
US08638065B2
A battery pack usable as a power source of an electric device, is disclosed, in which battery modules are in series; each battery module is configured to include battery cells in series; a discharge controller controls discharge power which is supplied from the battery modules to the electric device; a modulator modulates a voltage of each module between a high voltage and a low voltage which is higher than zero and lower than the high voltage; the high voltage and the low voltage are set to allow a load device of the electric device to operate by the high voltage, and to allow the load device not to operate by the low voltage; and the discharge controller operates by the battery modules, irrespective of whether each module outputs the high voltage or the low voltage.
US08638064B2
A device having an electrical plug, such as a charger device, includes a locking member coupled to a carriage that is movable into a housing. Prongs of the device are movable between a retracted position and an extended position along two different travel paths by actuating the prongs or by actuating the carriage.
US08638060B2
Solar panel assemblies herein are configured to couple to a boat trailer in order to charge a battery in a boat secured on top of the trailer. The solar panel assemblies can be configured to have means for 360 rotation to allow efficient sunlight capture and to allow for a more aerodynamic profile when the trailer is being towed. The assemblies herein include a solar panel housing that can include downwardly slanting sides to protect the one or more solar panels mounted within the housing from road debris.
US08638049B2
A driving device, a light emitting diode (LED) driving device and a method thereof are provided. The driving device includes a driving unit and a plurality of selection units. The driving unit produces a driving signal to drive a light emitting diode. The selection units are coupled to the driving unit and respectively correspond to a current value. The driving unit selects one of the selection units according a first pulse width modulation (PWM) signal. The current value corresponding to the selected selection unit is taken as the current value of the driving signal. The driving unit generates a duty cycle of a second PWM signal according to the duty cycle of the first PWM signal to serve as a duty cycle of the driving signal. In this way, power consumption of the LED is reduced.
US08638048B2
A circuit for determining an average value of a quasiperiodic signal may include an integrator, a sample and hold circuit coupled to an output of the integrator, wherein the sample and hold circuit includes a sample and hold circuit output, a feedback path coupled to the sample and hold circuit output and configured to feedback the signal provided at the sample and hold circuit output as a feedback signal, a subtractor configured to form a difference signal representing the difference between the quasiperiodic signal and the feedback signal, wherein an output of the subtractor is coupled to an input of the integrator to thereby provide the difference signal to the input of the integrator.
US08638044B2
Control apparatus for controlling an aspect of an apparatus are disclosed. In certain embodiments, the control apparatus comprises a dimmer that includes a variable impedance. In certain embodiments of the invention, the dimmer may be a TRIAC dimmer having a voltage at a gate electrode of the TRIAC that is always below a trigger voltage for the TRIAC such that the TRIAC never turns on and the remaining components within the TRIAC dimmer can be used as discreet components in a larger circuit. In the control apparatus, the dimmer may be coupled to a signal generation circuit that may generate an output signal whose frequency (period) is dictated at least in part by an impedance of the variable impedance. The output signal may be used to control an aspect of an apparatus such as the intensity, color or color temperature for a lighting apparatus.
US08638020B2
A stator structure, including strip shaped stator cores and end insulators. The end insulators are injection molded with the strip shaped stator cores, as a whole. A wire duct is arranged on top of a yoke of each strip shaped stator core and at the bottom of each end insulator. Two ends inside the wire duct are projected with bosses. Coil windings wind around the bosses and pass through the wire duct. The stator structure is simple and easy to mass produce. It can make full use of the slot filling ratio of the strip shaped stator. The invention solves the puncture problem.
US08638015B2
A motor may include: a rotor case having a coupling hook extending downward in an axial direction, secured to a shaft, and performing rotation; a sleeve supporting the shaft; and a sleeve housing having a projection provided at a front end portion of an upper part thereof in the axial direction and a guide passage provided along the projection such that the coupling hook moves along the guide passage while the sleeve is pressed and inserted into an inner circumferential surface thereof.
US08638009B2
A control system for a two-wire power and communication system is described herein. A gateway connects to an irrigation controller and at least two wires that are further connected to a plurality of decoders. The gateway includes an H-bridge circuit that creates an alternating potential at the same potential or lower than the nearby ground. In this respect, when one of the at least two communication wires are damaged, little or no wire corrosion will occur.
US08638005B2
A power supply system, particularly to be used in maritime oil/natural gas production includes at least one data transfer/voltage conversion unit arranged above sea level and one electrical means such as a choke, gate valve, production tree, power control/communication unit and the like arranged below sea level, which are electrically connected via a cable connection at least for power supply.To improve such a power supply system in a manner that this system has a simple structure and each data transfer/voltage conversion unit can also provide higher powers over a predetermined period of time or during continuous operation, a plurality of data transfer/voltage conversion units are arranged modularly, and one additional power supply module can be connected thereto to increase the power supply, and the electrical power, respectively.
US08638003B2
In an inverter generator having a first, second and third inverters, a first, second and third controllers adapted to control turning ON/OFF of switching elements thereof and to operate the first inverter as a master inverter and the second and third inverters as slave inverters, a three-phase output terminal, a single-phase output terminal, and an engine control section adapted to send an output of a selector switch to the first controller and so on, thereby outputting three-phase or single-phase AC through control of turning ON/OFF of the switching elements, so that the outputs from the first, second and third inverters become in the three-phase or single-phase AC in response to the output of the selector switch making the output from the first inverter as a reference.
US08638001B2
An object of the present invention is to provide an adhesive sheet that can capture cations mixed in from outside during various processes of manufacturing a semiconductor device to prevent deterioration in electrical characteristics of a semiconductor device to be manufactured and to improve product reliability. It is an adhesive sheet for producing a semiconductor device, in which when 2.5 g of the adhesive sheet is soaked in 50 ml of an aqueous solution containing 10 ppm of copper ions, and the solution is left at 120° C. for 20 hours, the concentration of copper ions in the aqueous solution is 0 to 9.9 ppm.
US08637999B2
A low-noise flip-chip package, comprising: a carrier substrate having first and second opposing main faces; and a flip-chip substrate connected in a face-down manner onto the first main face of the carrier substrate via a connection array, wherein: the flip-chip substrate comprises at least first and second circuitry portions spaced apart from one another; the flip-chip substrate comprises a substrate-contact boundary located between the first and second circuitry portions; and each of the first circuitry portion, the second circuitry portion and the substrate-contact boundary has its own separate signal-reference connection extending via a respective connection of the connection array through the carrier substrate to a respective electrical contact at the second main face of the carrier substrate for connection to a common signal-reference element in an external circuit.
US08637996B2
This disclosure describes systems and methods for increasing the usable surface area of electrical contacts within a device, such as a thin film solid state device, through the implementation of electrically conductive interconnects. Embodiments described herein include the use of a plurality of electrically conductive interconnects that penetrate through a top contact layer, through one or more multiple layers, and into a bottom contact layer. The plurality of conductive interconnects may form horizontal and vertical cross-sectional patterns. The use of lasers to form the plurality of electrically conductive interconnects from reflowed layer material further aids in the manufacturing process of a device.
US08637995B2
Methods of forming semiconductor devices include providing a substrate including a layer of semiconductor material on a layer of electrically insulating material. A first metallization layer is formed over a first side of the layer of semiconductor material. Through wafer interconnects are foamed at least partially through the substrate. A second metallization layer is formed over a second side of the layer of semiconductor material opposite the first side thereof. An electrical pathway is provided that extends through the first metallization layer, the substrate, and the second metallization layer between a first processed semiconductor structure carried by the substrate on the first side of the layer of semiconductor material and a second processed semiconductor structure carried by the substrate on the first side of the layer of semiconductor material. Semiconductor structures are fabricated using such methods.
US08637984B2
A semiconductor device has a substrate having a first plurality of substrate bonding pads disposed on a bonding surface thereof. A plurality of semiconductor dice is disposed on the substrate. Each die of the plurality of dice has a first plurality of die bonding pads arranged along at least one first edge thereof. A plurality of bonding pillars extends substantially vertically from the substrate bonding pads. Each bonding pillar electrically connects one of the first plurality of substrate bonding pads to a corresponding one of the first plurality of die bonding pads. A method of assembling a semiconductor device is also described.
US08637980B1
An assembly includes an integrated circuit die coupled to another component of the assembly with an alkali silicate glass material. The alkali silicate material may include particles for modifying the thermal, mechanical, and/or electrical characteristics of the material.
US08637974B2
A method of manufacture of an integrated circuit packaging system includes: providing a die attach pad integrally connected to a connector portion and a lead; attaching an integrated circuit die to the die attach pad; connecting an internal interconnect to the integrated circuit die and the lead; forming an encapsulation over the integrated circuit die; removing the connector portion to separate the die attach pad and the lead; and forming an isolation cover between the die attach pad and the lead.
US08637969B2
A method of forming a semiconductor package having a large capacity and a reduced or minimized volume includes: attaching a semiconductor substrate on a support substrate using an adhesive layer, wherein the semiconductor substrate includes a plurality of first semiconductor chips and a chip cutting region, wherein first and second ones of the plurality of first semiconductor chips are separated each other by the chip cutting region, and the semiconductor substrate includes a first surface on which an active area is formed and a second surface opposite to the first surface; forming a first cutting groove having a first kerf width, between the first and second ones of the plurality of first semiconductor chips, so that the semiconductor substrate is separated into a plurality of first semiconductor chips; attaching a plurality of second semiconductor chips corresponding to the first semiconductor chips, respectively, to the plurality of first semiconductor chips; forming a molding layer so as to fill the first cutting groove; and forming a second cutting groove having a second kerf width that is less than the first kerf width, in the molding layer, so as to separate the molding layer into individual molding layers covering one of the plurality of first semiconductor chips and corresponding one of the plurality of second semiconductor chips.
US08637963B2
A semiconductor device is disclosed including an electromagnetic radiation shield. The device may include a substrate having a shield ring defined in a conductance pattern on a surface of the substrate. One or more semiconductor die may be affixed and electrically coupled to the substrate. The one or more semiconductor die may then be encapsulated in molding compound. Thereafter, a metal may be plated around the molding compound and onto the shield ring to form an EMI/RFI shield for the device.
US08637957B1
An anti-fuse structure is provided in which an anti-fuse material liner is embedded within one of the openings provided within an interconnect dielectric material. The anti-fuse material liner is located between a first conductive metal and a second conductive metal which are also present within the opening. A diffusion barrier liner separates the first conductive metal from any portion of the interconnect dielectric material. The anti-fuse structure is laterally adjacent an interconnect structure that is formed within the same interconnect dielectric material as the anti-fuse structure.
US08637942B2
A transistor having a metal nitride layer pattern, etchant and methods of forming the same is provided. A gate insulating layer and/or a metal nitride layer may be formed on a semiconductor substrate. A mask layer may be formed on the metal nitride layer. Using the mask layer as an etching mask, an etching process may be performed on the metal nitride layer, forming the metal nitride layer pattern. An etchant, which may have an oxidizing agent, a chelate agent and/or a pH adjusting mixture, may perform the etching. The methods may reduce etching damage to a gate insulating layer under the metal nitride layer pattern during the formation of a transistor.
US08637940B2
A semiconductor device includes a drift region of a first doping type, a junction between the drift region and a device region, a compensation region of a second doping type, and at least one field electrode structure arranged between the drift region and the compensation region. The at least one field electrode includes a field electrode and a field electrode dielectric adjoining the field electrode. The field electrode dielectric is arranged between the field electrode and the drift region and between the field electrode and the compensation. The field electrode dielectric includes a first opening through which the field electrode is coupled to drift region and a second opening through which the field electrode is coupled to the compensation region.
US08637928B2
According to one embodiment, a semiconductor device includes a base region of a second conductivity type, a drift region of a first conductivity type, an insulating layer, a drain region of the first conductivity type, a gate oxide film, a gate electrode, a first main electrode, and a second main electrode. The base region includes a source region of the first conductivity type. The drift region is adjacent to the base region. The insulating layer is provided from a surface to inside of the drift region. The drain region is provided in the surface of the drift region and opposed to the source region across the base region and the insulating layer. The gate oxide film is provided on a surface of the base region. The gate electrode is provided on the gate oxide film. The first main electrode is connected to the source region. The second main electrode is connected to the drain region. As viewed in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the base region, the source region and at least a part of the drain region extend generally parallel in a line shape, and a length of a portion of the drift region sandwiched between the insulating layer and the base region is shorter in the generally parallel extending direction than in a direction generally perpendicular to the generally parallel extending direction.
US08637926B2
An oxide termination semiconductor device may comprise a plurality of gate trenches, a gate runner, and an insulator termination trench. The gate trenches are located in an active region. Each gate trench includes a conductive gate electrode. The insulator termination trench is located in a termination region that surrounds the active region. The insulator termination trench is filled with an insulator material to form an insulator termination for the semiconductor device. The device can be made using a three-mask or four-mask process.
US08637925B2
Embodiments of the invention provide a method of forming nickel-silicide. The method may include depositing first and second metal layers over at least one of a gate, a source, and a drain region of a field-effect-transistor (FET) through a physical vapor deposition (PVD) process, wherein the first metal layer is deposited using a first nickel target material containing platinum (Pt), and the second metal layer is deposited on top of the first metal layer using a second nickel target material containing no or less platinum than that in the first nickel target material; and annealing the first and second metal layers covering the FET to form a platinum-containing nickel-silicide layer at a top surface of the gate, source, and drain regions.
US08637923B2
A transistor includes a substrate including a trench, an insulation layer filled in a portion of the trench, the insulation layer having a greater thickness over an edge portion of a bottom surface of the trench than over a middle portion of the bottom surface of the trench, a gate insulation layer formed over inner sidewalls of the trench, the gate insulation layer having a thickness smaller than the insulation layer, and a gate electrode filled in the trench.
US08637919B2
A nonvolatile memory device includes a channel protruding in a vertical direction from a substrate, a plurality of interlayer dielectric layers and gate electrode layers which are alternately stacked over the substrate along the channel, and a memory layer formed between the channel and a stacked structure of the interlayer dielectric layers and gate electrode layers. Two or more gate electrode layers of the plurality of gate electrode layers are coupled to an interconnection line to form a selection transistor.
US08637913B2
A nonvolatile memory device includes a channel vertically extending from a substrate and comprising a first region that is doped with first impurities and a second region that is disposed under the first region, a plurality of memory cells and a selection transistor stacked over the substrate along the channel, and a diffusion barrier interposed between the first region and the second region, wherein a density of the first impurities is higher than a density of impurities of the second region.
US08637912B1
A semiconductor device includes a substrate having a primary side. A first pillar extends vertically with respect to the primary side of the substrate, the first pillar defining first and second conductive regions and a channel region that is provided between the first and second conductive regions. A first gate is provided over the channel region of the first pillar. A buried word line extends along a first direction below the first pillar, the buried word line configured to provide a first control signal to the first gate. A first interposer is coupled with the buried word line and the first gate to enable the first control signal to be applied to the first gate via the buried word line.
US08637910B2
An image sensor includes an active region including a photoelectric conversion region and a floating diffusion region, which are separated from each other, defined by a device isolation region on a semiconductor substrate, and a transfer transistor including a first sub-gate provided on an upper surface of the semiconductor substrate and a second sub-gate extending within a recessed portion of the semiconductor substrate on the active region between the photoelectric conversion region and the floating diffusion region, wherein the photoelectric conversion region includes a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements, which vertically overlap each other within the semiconductor substrate and are spaced apart from the recessed portion.
US08637902B2
There is provided a semiconductor device having a High Electron Mobility Transistor (HEMT) structure allowing for enhanced performance and a method of manufacturing the same. The semiconductor device includes a base substrate; a semiconductor layer provided on the base substrate; a source electrode, a gate electrode and a drain electrode provided on the semiconductor layer to be spaced apart from one another; and an ohmic-contact layer partially provided at an interface between the drain electrode and the semiconductor layer.
US08637898B2
Embodiments of circuits, methods and systems for a voltage-controlled current source are disclosed. In some embodiments, the voltage-controlled current source may be a three-terminal device having separated gate structures. Other embodiments may also be described and claimed.
US08637896B2
A light emitting device of the present invention has a package constituted by a molded article having a light emitting face, a bottom face that is contiguous with the light emitting face, and a rear face that is on the opposite side from the light emitting face, and a pair of leads that are partially embedded in the molded article, protrude from the bottom face, and have ends that bend toward either the light emitting face or the rear face, and a light emitting element that is disposed on one of the pair of leads, the molded article has a front protruding part that protrudes on the light emitting face side, and a rear protruding part that protrudes on the rear face side, between the leads on the bottom face.
US08637891B2
A light-emitting device includes first and second semiconductor layers and a light-emitting layer between the first and second semiconductor layers. The light-emitting device also includes an improved electrode structures.
US08637884B2
Disclosed is a light emitting device including a conductive substrate; a reflective layer on the conductive substrate; an etching protective layer on a peripheral portion of a top surface of the conductive substrate; and a light emitting structure, which is formed on the reflective layer and the etching protective layer such that the etching protective layer is partially exposed and includes a first conductive semiconductor layer, a second conductive semiconductor layer and an active layer between the first and second conductive semiconductor layers, wherein the etching protective layer includes a first refractive layer having a first refractive index and a second refractive layer having a second refractive index greater than the first refractive index.
US08637879B2
A display substrate for a display device includes a substrate, a switching device, a gate line, a data line, a pixel electrode, a plurality of common electrodes. The switching device includes an active pattern, a gate insulation layer, a gate electrode, a source electrode and a drain electrode. The gate line is electrically connected to the source electrode, and the data line is electrically coupled to the gate electrode. The pixel electrode is electrically connected to the drain electrode, and the common electrodes are disposed on the pixel electrode. A coupling capacitance among the common electrodes and the data line can be prevented and/or reduced to prevent a signal delay of the data line. Further, an aperture ratio of the display substrate can be improved by changing a layout of the data line and the gate line.
US08637870B2
A three-dimensional (3D) high density memory array includes multiple layers of segmented bit lines (i.e., sense lines) with segment switch devices within the memory array that connect the segments to global bit lines. The segment switch devices reside on one or more layers of the integrated circuit, preferably residing on each bit line layer. The global bit lines reside preferably on one layer below the memory array, but may reside on more than one layer. The bit line segments preferably share vertical connections to an associated global bit line. In certain EEPROM embodiments, the array includes multiple layers of segmented bit lines with segment connection switches on multiple layers and shared vertical connections to a global bit line layer. Such memory arrays may be realized with much less write-disturb effects for half selected memory cells, and may be realized with a much smaller block of cells to be erased.
US08637859B2
The present disclosure relates to OLED and PV devices including transparent electrodes that are formed of conductive nanostructures and methods of improving light out-coupling in OLED and input-coupling in PV devices.
US08637854B2
The present invention provides a stacked organic light emitting diode that comprises a first electrode; a second electrode; and at least two light emitting units that are located between the first electrode and the second electrode. The light emitting unit satisfies the following energy relation equation, and includes an n-type organic layer and a p-type organic layer that form NP conjunction, and also includes an n-type doped organic layer that is located between the light emitting units: EpH−EnL≦1 eV wherein EnL is a LUMO (lowest unoccupied molecular orbital) energy level of the n-type organic layer and EpH is a HOMO (highest occupied molecular orbital) energy level of the p-type organic layer.
US08637849B2
A Vertical Field Effect Transistor (VFET) formed on a substrate, with a conductive bottom electrode formed thereon. A bottom dielectric spacer layer and a gate dielectric layer surrounded by a gate electrode are formed thereabove. Thereabove is an upper spacer layer. A pore extends therethrough between the electrodes. A columnar Vertical Semiconductor Nanowire (VSN) fills the pore and between the top and bottom electrodes. An FET channel is formed in a central region of the VSN between doped source and drain regions at opposite ends of the VSN. The gate dielectric structure, that is formed on an exterior surface of the VSN above the bottom dielectric spacer layer, separates the VSN from the gate electrode.
US08637843B2
Disclosed herein is a device that includes: an interlayer insulation film having a through hole; and a phase change storage element provided in the through hole. The phase change storage element includes: an outer electrode being a conductive film of cylindrical shape and being formed along an inner wall of the through hole; a buffer insulation film being an insulation film of cylindrical shape and being formed along an inner wall of the outer electrode, an upper end of the buffer insulation film being recessed in part to form a recess; a phase change film filling an interior of the recess; and an inner electrode being a conductive film formed along an inner wall of the buffer insulation film including a surface of the phase change film.
US08637842B2
A method of using automatic whole body personnel contamination monitors and/or means for decontaminating individuals exposed to radioactive material contamination is provided. The inventive method involves the use of these monitors and/or decontamination means in intermodal containers of mobile-unit structures dedicated to responding to radiological emergency situations. Also provided are such mobile-unit structures, as well as systems that employ such mobile-unit structures.
US08637837B2
A beam extraction process (interruption and restart) is appropriately performed when a failure occurs during irradiation of a spot group. A charged particle irradiation system includes a synchrotron 12 and a scanning irradiation unit 15 that scans an ion beam extracted from the synchrotron over a subject. The extraction of the ion beam from the synchrotron is stopped on the basis of a beam extraction stop command. Scanning magnets 5A and 5B are controlled to change a point (spot) to be irradiated with the ion beam, while the extraction of the ion beam is stopped. The extraction of the ion beam from the synchrotron is restarted after the change of the spot to be irradiated. When a relatively minor failure in which continuous irradiation would be possible occurs during irradiation of a certain spot with the beam, the extraction of the beam is not immediately stopped.
US08637835B2
A drawing apparatus which performs drawing on a substrate with a plurality of charged particle beams includes: a blanking deflector located in a vacuum chamber and configured to blank each of the plurality of charged particle beams; a device located in an external chamber in which a gas pressure is higher than a gas pressure in the vacuum chamber, and configured to control the blanking deflector; and a first substrate facing the blanking deflector. The first substrate constitutes a partition which separates the vacuum chamber and the external chamber in a region, of the first substrate, facing the blanking deflector, and includes an electrode which fills a via formed in the region. The device is electrically connected to the blanking deflector via the electrode.
US08637831B2
An x-ray detector that is suitable for both imaging and dose rate measurement has a hybrid photoactive layer arranged between an electrode and a substrate. The hybrid photoactive layer includes a number of scintillators as well as a bulk heterojunction and is designed to produce indirect x-ray conversion. The bulk heterojunction absorbs the scintillator radiation to form electron-hole pairs that are detected electrically. The production takes place by a spraying process, in particular a co-spraying process of bulk heterojunction solution and scintillator particle suspension.
US08637826B2
A radiation detection system can include optical fibers and a material disposed between the optical fibers. In an embodiment, the material can include a fluid, such as a gas, a liquid, or a non-Newtonian fluid. In another embodiment, the material can include an optical coupling material. In a particular embodiment, the optical coupling material can include a silicone rubber. In still another embodiment, the optical coupling material has a refractive index less than 1.50. In still another embodiment, the radiation detection system can have a greater signal:noise ratio, a light collection efficiency, or both as compared to a conventional radiation detection system. Corresponding methods of use are disclosed that can provide better discrimination between neutrons and gamma radiation.
US08637822B2
A case constituting a cassette-type detector has a first lid member which closes an opening of the case arranged therein. An exterior wall hole is provided to a corner section of the first lid member. This makes it possible to detect appropriate radiological images all the time since even if an unexpected shock is applied to the corner section, the shock is absorbed by the deformation of the corner section to prevent the damage of the built-in detection unit of the cassette-type detector.
US08637821B2
The invention relates to a blocking member to be placed in the diffraction plane of a TEM. It resembles the knife edge used for single sideband imaging, but blocks only electrons deflected over a small angle. As a result the Contrast Transfer Function of the TEM according to this invention will equal that of a single sideband microscope at low frequencies and that of a normal microscope for high frequencies. Preferable the highest frequency blocked by the blocking member is such that a microscope without the blocking member would show a CTF of 0.5.
US08637820B2
Provided is a high-resolution scanning electron microscope with minimal aberration, and equipped with an electro-optical configuration that can form a tilted beam having wide-angle polarization and a desired angle, without interfering with an electromagnetic lens. In the scanning electron microscope, an electromagnetic deflector (201) is disposed above a magnetic lens (207), and a control electrode (202) that accelerates or decelerates electrons is provided so at to overlap (in such a manner that the height positions overlap with respect to the vertical direction) with the electromagnetic deflector (201). In wide field polarization, electrodes are accelerated, and in tilted beam formation, electrons are decelerated.
US08637812B2
Sample excitation apparatus for a spectrometric analyzer, the apparatus comprising a sample introduction stage comprising an electrospray nebulizer for generating a nebulized sample; and a sample excitation stage arranged to operate in an atmospheric pressure environment and to receive and excite the nebulized sample in a sample excitation region for spectrometric analysis thereof. ‘Excitation’ includes ionization in ICP and MIP, flame excitation in AES, and optical excitation in AAS. For example, analyte solution (38) is fed out of the outlet end of a capillary (30,40,60,96), to a plasma source. A potential difference is applied between the capillary, its outlet end or the analyte solution and an opposing effective (counter) electrode, which may comprise a tube (64), a grid (80), or the plasma (34) itself, to promote formation of smaller droplets (46). The pressure of the plasma source is similar to the pressure in the region of the capillary outlet end.
US08637802B2
An object is to provide a photosensor utilizing an oxide semiconductor in which a refreshing operation is unnecessary, a semiconductor device provided with the photosensor, and a light measurement method utilizing the photosensor. It is found that a constant gate current can be obtained by applying a gate voltage in a pulsed manner to a transistor including a channel formed using an oxide semiconductor, and this is applied to a photosensor. Since a refreshing operation of the photosensor is unnecessary, it is possible to measure the illuminance of light with small power consumption through a high-speed and easy measurement procedure. A transistor utilizing an oxide semiconductor having a relatively high mobility, a small S value, and a small off-state current can form a photosensor; therefore, a multifunction semiconductor device can be obtained through a small number of steps.
US08637798B2
A method for determining a position of a device in a reference coordinate system. The method including: receiving, at the device, less than all of GPS signals necessary to determine the position of the device in the reference coordinate system; transmitting a signal from aν illuminating source defined in the reference coordinate system; receiving the signal at a cavity waveguide disposed on the device; and determining the position of the device in the reference coordinate system based on the GPS signals and the signal received in the cavity waveguide. The signal received in the cavity waveguide can also be used to confirm a position determined by the GPS signals.
US08637793B2
An electric oven has an air passage structure that is designed to effectively cool down electric components. The air passage structure quickly cools down a variety of electric components on a top surface of a cavity using air introduced from outside the oven. The oven has a series of passages and openings allowing the effective movement of air past the electric components and through the oven.
US08637789B2
The present invention relates to a process for producing a metallized textile surface having one or more articles needing or generating electric current. A formulation having at least one metal powder is applied as a component atop a textile surface patternedly or uniformly. At least one article needing or generating electric current is fixed in at least two locations where formulation was applied. A further metal is deposited on the textile surface.
US08637773B2
An electric insulation device, including a chamber and an electrically insulating element formed by a cast polymer solidified into an elastic state inside the chamber. The electrically insulating element includes a plurality of particles of a ceramic that has a higher thermal conductivity than the one of the polymer.
US08637769B2
A field-controlled composite insulator uses materials which are greatly stressed by an inhomogeneous distribution of an electrical field across a surface thereof. One of the causes thereof is the structural configuration of the insulator. The field strength changes particularly in a region of fittings due to a transition from insulating materials of sheds and an insulator core to a metal material, due to a transition from ground potential at cross members or to a conductor potential at that location, where conductor cables are attached. A further cause is deposits of dirt, which stress an insulator overall. A field control layer is therefore disposed between the core and the protective layer in at least one section of the insulator. The control layer includes particles as a filler, which influence the electrical field of the insulator. A method for producing the composite insulator is also provided.
US08637768B2
An apparatus may comprise a wire frame, a material, and mating connectors. The wire frame is covered by the material to form a flexible duct having a first end and a second end. A first mating connector may be electrically connected to the wire frame and attached to the material at the first end. The first mating connector may be capable of being coupled to a first complementary mating connector to form a mechanical connection and an electrical connection. A second mating connector may be electrically connected to the wire frame and attached to the material at the second end. The second mating connector may be capable of being coupled to a second complementary mating connector to form the mechanical connection and the electrical connection.
US08637766B2
This invention provides a dye-sensitized solar cell ensuring high photoelectric conversion efficiency.The dye-sensitized solar cell comprises a photoelectrode and a counter electrode, which are oppositely disposed with an electrolyte layer interposed therebetween, wherein: (1) the photoelectrode is structured such that a semiconductor layer containing a dye sensitizer is formed on a titanium or titanium alloy substrate having an opening structure, (2) the photoelectrode comprises a light condenser that is disposed on the titanium or titanium alloy substrate.
US08637758B2
Disclosed is a thermoelectric material which is represented by the following composition formula (1) or (2) and comprises as a major phase an MgAgAs type crystal structure: (Tia1Zrb1Hfc1)xNiySn100-x-y composition formula (1); (Lnd(Tia2Zrb2Hfc2)1-d)xNiySn100-x-y composition formula (2); (wherein a1, b1, c1, x and y satisfy the conditions of: 0
US08637750B2
The present invention provides an inbred corn line designated NPID3013, methods for producing a corn plant by crossing plants of the inbred line NPID3013 with plants of another corn plant. The invention further encompasses all parts of inbred corn line NPID3013, including culturable cells. Additionally provided herein are methods for introducing transgenes into inbred corn line NPID3013, and plants produced according to these methods.
US08637749B2
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH357331. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH357331, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH357331 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH357331.
US08637740B2
The invention relates to improved Brassica species, including Brassica juncea, improved oil and meal from Brassica juncea, methods for generation of such improved Brassica species, and methods for selection of Brassica lines. Further embodiments relate to seeds of Brassica juncea comprising an endogenous oil having increased oleic acid content and decreased linolenic acid content relative to presently existing commercial cultivars of Brassica juncea, seeds of Brassica juncea having traits for increased oleic acid content and decreased linolenic acid content in seed oil stably incorporated therein, and one or more generations of progeny plants produced from said seeds.
US08637739B2
The invention provides novel polypeptides, and variants and fragments thereof, having pesticidal activity against nematodes. Particular embodiments of the invention provide isolated nucleic acids encoding pesticidal proteins, biopesticide compositions, expression cassettes, and transformed microorganisms and plants comprising a nucleic acid of the invention. These compositions find use in methods for controlling pests, especially plant parasitic nematodes.
US08637722B2
Ethylene is oligomerized with a catalyst in which nickel is supported on a support containing silica and alumina. The catalyst has little deterioration over long periods and affords oligomers with high productivity.The ethylene oligomerization catalyst includes a support and a nickel compound supported on the support, the support including silica and alumina, and the amount of nickel supported is in the range of 0.0001 to 1 wt % based on the weight of the support, and the molar ratio of silica to alumina in the support (SiO2/Al2O3) is in the range of 100 to 2000. In a process of the invention, ethylene is oligomerized with use of the catalyst.
US08637715B2
The present invention relates to a catalyst comprising platinum, tin and a secondary noble metal selected from the group consisting of rhodium, palladium, gold and iridium. The catalyst may be on a support. In some embodiments, the support may comprise calcium. The catalyst is used for converting acetic acid to ethanol.
US08637713B2
A catalytic process for the preparation of optically active compounds and their conversion thereafter to desired drug substances. In particular, the process relates to the preparation of (S)-3-(1-Dimethylamino-ethyl)-phenol using asymmetric catalytic reduction and transfer hydrogenation, thereby providing an improved route to forming drug substances such as rivastigimine and rivastigimine hydrogen tartrate.
US08637712B2
Precipitations of nitrohydroxyaromatic salts out of the nitrated crude products obtained in the nitration of aromatic compounds after alkaline scrubbing, for example mononitrotoluenes, are prevented by contacting the nitrated crude products with an acidic ion exchanger. The nitrated crude products are preferably selected from a feedstream to a distillation column, a bottoms circulation stream of a distillation column and a feedstream to a vaporizer.
US08637704B2
At least 70% by weight of Compound 1 is the single crystalline form, Form A, Form C, or Form D, of the compound. A pharmaceutical composition comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent, and compound 1, wherein at least 70% by weight of the compound is the single crystalline form, Form A, Form C, or Form D, of the compound. A method of treating a subject with cancer comprises administering to the subject an effective amount of compound 1 or the pharmaceutical composition.
US08637693B2
Provided herein are methods for dehydrating single-walled metal oxide nanotubes by heating the SWNT under vacuum at 250-300° C.; methods of dehydroxylating SWNT, comprising heating the SWNT under vacuum at 300-340° C., and methods for maximizing the pore volume of a SWNT, comprising heating the SWNT at 300° C. under vacuum to partially dehydroxylate and dehydrate the SWNT; methods of modifying the inner surface of a single walled aluminosilicate nanotube (SWNT), comprising dehydration or dehydration and dehydroxylation, followed by reacting the SWNT with a derivative under anhydrous conditions to produce a SWNT that is derivatized on its inner surface. The invention also includes single-walled nanotubes produced by the methods of the invention.
US08637689B2
Provided herein are processes for preparing estolides and estolide base oils from fatty acid reactants utilizing catalysts. Further provided herein are processes for preparing carboxylic esters from at least one carboxylic acid reactant and at least one olefin.
US08637687B2
Provided are processes for making an amide of a carboxylic acid by reacting an amine of the formula (I) H—NR1R2 (I) wherein R1 and R2 are the same or different, R1 comprising a C1-C4-alkyl, and R2 comprising hydrogen or a C1-C4-alkyl, the amine having a lower boiling point than water, with a carboxylic acid with at least 3 carbon atoms per molecule, said carboxylic acid optionally comprising at least one alcoholic hydroxyl group per molecule, and selecting a molar ratio of amine to carboxylic acid in the range of from 1.5:1 to 1:1. The reaction step occurs under temperature and pressure conditions at which water and amine according to formula (I) are gaseous, and in a single reactor, the water formed together with any unreacted amine is distilled off, any unreacted amine is separated from the water and said the unreacted amine is reintroduced into the reaction mixture.
US08637686B2
Provided herein are novel alkynyl and azide containing amino acids; kits containing these amino acids; peptides containing these amino acids; peptide macrocycles whose secondary structures are stabilized with linkers containing triazoles synthesized by reacting the side chains of the alkynyl and azide containing amino acids; and methods of making and using the alkynyl and azide containing amino acids, kits, peptides, triazole containing linkers, and peptide macrocycles.
US08637682B2
The present invention relates to novel benzoyl derivatives of 3-aminocarbazole, to a pharmaceutical composition containing them, to a method for preparing them and to the use of such compounds for the production of a drug that is useful in the treatment or prevention of disturbances associated with the production of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), for instance inflammatory processes, pain, fever, tumours, Alzheimer's disease and atherosclerosis.
US08637681B2
Provided are pyrrolyl substituted dihydroindol-2-one derivatives represented by formula (I), pharmaceutically acceptable salts or solvates of said derivatives, or solvates of said salts, which are effective tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Also provided are the preparation methods of the above compounds, pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds, and the use of these compounds in manufacturing drugs useful for the treatment or adjunctive treatment of tumors medicated by tyrosine kinases or proliferation or migration of tumor cells driven by tyrosine kinases in mammals (including human).
US08637679B2
The present invention relates to two main components, mahanine and mahanimbine (dehydroxy-mahanine) from Murraya koenigii for the treatment of glioblastoma and cervical carcinoma. Mahanimbine exhibited anti-cancer activity against lymphoid leukemia, myeloid leukemia, glioma, cervical carcinoma, pancreatic, colon and lung cancers in nineteen cells of different genetic status. C-3 hydroxy and NH groups are responsible contributing groups for their cytotoxicity. Mahanine reduced the doses of cisplatin and paclitaxel in cervical cancer showing better efficacy and useful as an adjunct chemotherapeutic agent to reduce toxicity these two drugs. A new cheap process for this preparation was established. EtOAc extract containing alkaloids enriched with mahanimbine and mahanine, is active against glioma and cervical cancers. Mahanine is targeting the chaperone Hsp90 which led to the proteasome-dependent degradation of several Hsp90-client proteins in diverse carcinoma types, glioblastoma, cervical carcinoma and pancreatic adenocarcinoma irrespective of their tissue origins thereby killing the cancer cells.
US08637674B2
The present invention provides pyrazole derivative compounds and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. The compounds of the present invention have an excellent effect of preventing and treating osteoporosis.
US08637670B2
The present invention provides the compounds of formula (I): The present invention relates to imidazo[4,5-c]quinoline derivatives of formula (I), process for their preparation, pharmaceutical compositions containing them and their use in the treatment of diseases mediated by phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PBK) and/or mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and/or tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-oc) and/or interleukin-6 (IL-6), particularly in the treatment of cancer and inflammation.
US08637668B2
Process for preparing a cyclic tertiary methylamine of the formula I where A is a C4-alkylene group, a C5-alkylene group or a —(CH2)2—B—(CH2)2— group, where B is oxygen (O) or an N—R1 radical and R1 is C1-C5-alkyl, aryl or C5-C7-cycloalkyl, wherein an amino alcohol II from the group consisting of 1,4-aminobutanol, 1,5-aminopentanol, aminodiglycol (ADG) or aminoethylethanolamine of the formula IIa where R1 is as defined above or is hydrogen (H), in which case R1═CH3 in the amine I, is reacted with methanol in a reactor at a temperature in the range from 150 to 270° C. in the liquid phase in the presence of a copper-comprising heterogeneous catalyst.
US08637661B2
A process is described for the preparation of water-soluble cellulose hydrolysis product. The process comprise admixing cellulose with an ionic liquid capable of solvating or dissolving at least some of the cellulose, said ionic liquid being a compound comprises solely of cations and anions and which exists in a liquid state at a temperature at or below 150° C., and in which the anions are selected from halide and cyanate; and treating the resulting solvate or solution with an acid in the presence of water, said acid having a pKa in water of less than 2 at 25° C.
US08637659B2
The present invention relates to a novel family of monosaccharide derivatives and disaccharide derivatives and to a method of preparation thereof. A mono- and disaccharide derivatives according to the invention comprises at least one fatty acid ester and may further comprise one or more anionic groups and are useful for, inter alia, medical, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food applications.
US08637654B1
This invention relates to a ribonucleic acid (RNA) based assay system for body fluid identification, and in particular to a novel, multiplex, parallel assay system based on messenger RNA expressed in human tissue, and to a method for using the same.
US08637651B2
The present invention relates to recombinant cells and microorganisms of the phylum Labyrinthulomycota and their use in heterologous protein production. Novel promoter, terminator, and signal sequences for efficient production and, optionally, secretion of polypeptides from recombinant host cells and microorganisms are also encompassed by the present invention.
US08637648B1
This invention relates generally to compositions comprising noribogaine and an excipient to facilitate transport across the blood brain barrier.
US08637643B2
Compositions and methods relating to epitopes of sclerostin protein, and sclerostin binding agents, such as antibodies capable of binding to sclerostin, are provided.
US08637642B2
Antibody drug conjugates (ADC's) that bind to 191P4D12 protein and variants thereof are described herein. 191P4D12 exhibits tissue specific expression in normal adult tissue, and is aberrantly expressed in the cancers listed in Table I. Consequently, the ADC's of the invention provide a therapeutic composition for the treatment of cancer.
US08637638B2
The present invention provides compositions for altering a B cell mediated pathology in a patient. The compositions may comprise at least one and/or two chimeric proteins. Each chimeric protein comprises at least a portion of either the VH or VL region of a immunoglobulin molecule from particular B cells from a patient having a B cell mediated pathology, and an immunoglobulin constant region. The genes encoding VH and/or VL regions and the genes encoding immunoglobulin constant regions are isolated and inserted in an expression vector. The chimeric proteins may be produced by introducing the expression vectors into insect cell lines. Proteins may be further purified and conjugated to a compound such as an immunogenic carrier.
US08637636B2
Methods, apparatus, systems, computer programs and computing devices related to biologically assembling and/or synthesizing peptides and/or proteins are disclosed.
US08637622B2
The invention relates to a copolymer including betaininc units and hydrophobic and/or amphiphile units. The invention also relates to a method for preparing a copolymer including betaininc units and hydrophobic and/or amphiphile units, by controlled micellar polymerisation. The invention further relates to the uses of the copolymer. The copolymer is particularly used for increasing the viscosity of saline aqueous compositions.
US08637616B2
The present invention provides polymerization processes utilizing an ansa-metallocene catalyst system for the production of olefin polymers. Polymers produced from the polymerization processes have properties that vary based upon the presence or the absence of hydrogen and/or comonomer in the polymerization process.
US08637608B2
Fluoropolymers containing one or more azide group wherein the azide group is not a sulfonyl-azide group and processes of preparing them.
US08637606B2
Tires and tread are made from resin formed from the polymerization of phenol, aromatic, and terpene and/or mono- and bi-cyclic mono- and bi-unsaturated hydrocarbons.
US08637605B1
A moisture curable composition that includes a silage functional polyolefin, a first thermoplastic polymer that includes a thermoplastic elastomer selected from the group consisting of block copolymer selected from the group consisting of styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene block copolymer, styrene-ethylene-propylene-styrene block copolymer, and combinations thereof, the block copolymer including no greater than 30 mole % styrene, saturated ethylene alphaolefin copolymer, butyl rubber, and combinations thereof, and polybutene having a number average molecular weight less than 5000, the composition being clear and resistant to ultraviolet light.
US08637599B2
It is the purpose of the present invention to improve air permeation resistance, low heat build-up property and strength at break. The present invention provides a rubber composition for an inner liner including (B) specific mica, (C) carbon black and/or silica and (D) an alkylphenol-sulfur chloride condensate indicated by the formula (D1): (Wherein R1 to R3 are an alkyl group having 5 to 12 carbons; x and y are an integer of 2 to 4; and n is an integer of 0 to 10), based on (A) specific rubber component.
US08637590B2
A protective coating applied to the underwater portion of a marine vessel operable to inhibit the growth of marine foulants. The coating comprises a polymer, a marine biocide, a preservative, an antimicrobial agent, and optionally a coloring agent. In certain embodiments, the marine biocide, preservative, and optional antimicrobial agent are chemically bonded with the polymer thereby significantly reducing the ability of the biocide, preservative, and antimicrobial agent to leach from the coating into the surrounding environment.
US08637586B2
A coating composition includes a UV curable film forming resin; a thixotropic and/or pseudoplastic anti-settling agent selected from at least one of an amine salt of a synthetic wax, a microcrystalline cellulose compound (MCC), a urea urethane, or a urethane enzymatically modified starch; a mar/scratch resistant additive selected from at least one of a mineral abrasive, glass particles, and ceramic particles; and water.
US08637583B2
A process for the manufacture of a fiber or foil comprising at least one optionally functionalized polymer with a high Tg selected from the group consisting of poly(aryl ether sulfone) (PAES), poly(aryl ether ketone) (PAEK) and aromatic polyimide, comprising the steps of (aa) providing a solution comprising at least 45 wt. % of the polymer, and at least 20 wt. %, of at least one halogen-free organic solvent (S1) for the polymer, both wt % based upon the weight of the solution; (bb) pushing the solution through a nozzle; and (cc) introducing the solution into a coagulation bath comprising: (cc1) at least one liquid (L1) in which the polymer is insoluble, and optionally (cc2) at least one organic solvent (S2) for the polymer, identical to or different from the organic solvent (S1), to form a fiber or foil. A fiber or foil obtained by this process as well as to fibers or foils with specific porosity features and/or mechanical properties.
US08637576B2
Benzamide derivatives of formulae I and II, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, solvates, stereoisomers, and prodrugs thereof, and pharmaceutical compositions comprising the same, are described and have therapeutic utility, particularly in the treatment of diabetes, obesity, and related conditions and disorders: wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, R8, R9, R10, R11, and R12 are defined as provided herein.
US08637573B2
The invention relates to a new prescription of NAC in the treatment of endometriosis and of indications associated with endometriosis, in a human or mammalian animal patient. In addition an effective dose regimen of NAC in the treatment of endometriosis is proposed. In one embodiment of the present invention the prescribed treatment regimen may be used e.g. in order to control the frequency and the intensity of pain symptoms (dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia and acyclic chronic pelvic pain), to reduce the size of endometriotic lesions eventually up to their disappearance, to reduce recurrences after surgery and/or to improve fertility. Side effects of this treatment are virtually absent and, in particular, this treatment does not hinder pregnancy.
US08637570B2
A pharmaceutical composition comprising a docusate; an osmotic laxative; and a benzoate.
US08637567B2
This invention provides compounds, compositions and methods for treating a cognitive disorder or memory disorder in animals that result from aging or other neurodegenerative condition. In particular, compounds of this invention can stimulate neural cell growth, increased amounts of cells containing a key enzyme needed for production of the cholinergic neurotransmitter, and can improve memory and cognitive function in animals who have experienced a loss of memory or cognitive function.
US08637559B2
The present invention provides a oxazole compound represented by Formula (1), or a salt thereof: wherein R1 is an aryl group which may have one or more substituents; R2 is an aryl group or a nitrogen atom-containing heterocyclic group each of which may have one or more substituents; and W is a divalent group represented by —Y1-A1- or —Y2—C(═O)— wherein Y1 is a group such as —C(═O)—, A1 is a group such as a lower alkylene group, and Y2 is a group such as a piperazinediyl group. The oxazole compound has a specific inhibitory action against phosphodiesterase 4.
US08637553B2
A compound of Formula (I): salts thereof, prodrugs thereof, metabolites thereof, pharmaceutical compositions containing such a compound, and use of such compound and compositions to treat diseases mediated by raf, VEGFR, PDGFR, p38 and flt-3.
US08637548B2
A compound of formula: where Ar1, Ar2, X, R3, and m are as disclosed herein or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof (a “Cycloheteroalkenyl Compound”); compositions comprising an effective amount of a Cycloheteroalkenyl Compound; and methods for treating or preventing pain, UI, an ulcer, IBD, IBS, an addictive disorder, Parkinson's disease, parkinsonism, anxiety, epilepsy, stroke, a seizure, a pruritic condition, psychosis, a cognitive disorder, a memory deficit, restricted brain function, Huntington's chorea, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, dementia, retinopathy, a muscle spasm, a migraine, vomiting, dyskinesia, or depression in an animal comprising administering to an animal in need thereof an effective amount of a Cycloheteroalkenyl Compound are disclosed herein.
US08637540B2
This invention relates to an abuse deterrent dosage form of opioid analgesics, wherein an analgesically effective amount of opioid analgesic is combined with a polymer to form a matrix.
US08637512B2
A sustained release formulation of lamotrigine or a pharmaceutically acceptable derivative thereof and methods of treatment and uses thereof.
US08637509B2
Herein are disclosed azaindazoles of formula (I) where the various groups are defined herein, and which are useful for treating cancer.
US08637506B2
The mechanism by which the high bone mass (HBM) mutation (G171V) of the Wnt coreceptor LRP5 regulates the canonical Wnt signaling was investigated. The mutation was previously shown to reduce Dkk protein-1-mediated antagonism, suggesting that the first YWTD repeat domain where G171 is located may be responsible for Dkk protein-mediated antagonism. However, we found that the third YWTD repeat, but not the first repeat domain, is required for DKK1-mediated antagonism. Instead, we found that the G171V mutation disrupted the interaction of LRP5 with Mesd, a chaperon protein for LRP5/6 that is required for the coreceptors' transport to cell surfaces, resulting in less LRP5 molecules on the cell surface. Although the reduction in the level of cell surface LRP5 molecules led to a reduction in Wnt signaling in a paracrine paradigm, the mutation did not appear to affect the activity of coexpressed Wnt in an autocrine paradigm. Together with the observation that osteoblast cells produce autocrine canonical Wnt, Wnt7b, and that osteocytes produce paracrine Dkk1, we believe that the G171V mutation may cause an increase in Wnt activity in osteoblasts by reducing the number of targets for paracrine Dkk1 to antagonize without affecting the activity of autocrine Wnt.
US08637503B2
Disclosed is the unexpected finding that enantiomers of phenothiazines, preferably the (+) enantiomer of promethazine, are particularly effective in inhibiting the bone resorbing cells, osteoclasts, thus providing new uses and methods for reducing bone loss and, e.g., treating periodontitis and osteoporosis. The invention provides a range of such uses, methods, medicaments and associated compositions and kits.
US08637502B2
The invention relates to Heterocyclic-Substituted Piperidine Compounds, compositions comprising an effective amount of a Heterocyclic-Substituted Piperidine Compound and methods to treat or prevent a condition, such as pain, comprising administering to an animal in need thereof an effective amount of a Heterocyclic-Substituted Piperidine Compound.
US08637487B2
Indigestible oligosaccharides having a molecular weight of 450 Da to 3700 Da are used for the improvement of insulin resistance, the prevention of post-prandial glycaemic dip, and/or the decrease of the post-prandial glucose response of a meal, which is consumed within 72 hours after the consumption of the first product. The oligo-saccharides are especially galacto-oligosaccharides, and are advantageously administered a few hours prior to having the meal.
US08637480B2
It is an object of the present invention to provide a novel mitochondrial function-improving agent and a novel PGC-1α expression inducing agent. The present invention provides a mitochondrial function-improving agent and a PGC-1α expression inducing agent each of which comprises a lysine-specific demethylase-1 (LSD-1) inhibitor.
US08637477B2
Methods and compositions are provided for delivery of therapeutic nucleic acids to a target cell. A chimeric antigen is provided to encapsulate, bind, or otherwise carry a nucleic acid molecule to a target cell where the chimeric antigen and nucleic acid are internalized by receptor-mediated endocytosis. The chimeric antigen has a nucleic acid interaction domain, a target binding domain, and an immune response domain that may include a target antigen. Targeting is generally provided by the specificity of the target binding domain for a particular target cell receptor, but may also be provided by inclusion of a targeting antigen within the immune response domain. The combined delivery of chimeric antigen and nucleic acid, which may be a siRNA, may be synergistic in certain applications, for example in breaking host tolerance to a virus or in providing immunostimulation.
US08637471B2
The outcome of an in vitro fertilization (IVF) of a woman in terms of chances of successful pregnancy or the fertility status of a woman is predicted based on nucleotide analysis of the histidine-rich glycoprotein (HRG) gene or protein analysis of HRG. The proline isoform of HRG or an amino acid fragment thereof can further be used to increases the success of pregnancy of a woman.
US08637470B2
Novel peptides referred to as small humanin-like peptides (SHLPs) are provided herein along with nucleic acids encoding SHLPs and probes that selectively bind SHLPs. SHLPs have wide-ranging activity, including neuroprotective activity, anticancer activity, and cell survival activity. Also provided herein are therapeutic methods comprising administering an effective amount of an SHLP to a subject in need of treatment.
US08637461B2
The method of diagnosing and treating oxidative stress-impaired wound healing allows a practitioner to identify a subject at risk of having impaired wound healing by identifying the sensitivity of that patient to IGF-1. A finding of IGF-1 resistance, either systemically or at the site of an already existing wound, indicates an increased likelihood that the wound will have difficulty healing. In addition, identifying IGF-1 resistance by this method indicates that treatment of a wound with a combination of an antioxidant, IGF-1 and IGFBP-1 will provide optimal healing.
US08637455B2
The presently disclosed subject matter relates to peptides having binding affinity for glycopeptide antibiotics and methods and compositions for delivering glycopeptide antibiotic to the surface of medical devices. The peptide compositions can comprise a peptide having binding affinity for a surface material of a medical device that is coupled to the peptide having binding affinity for glycopeptide antibiotic. Also provided are methods of applying the peptide compositions to a medical device by contacting the peptide compositions with a surface of the medical device. In addition, kits are provided comprising the peptide compositions.
US08637447B2
The present invention relates to viral capsid proteins, as a medicament for the treatment of a pathologic disorder. More particularly, the invention relates to the viral capsid proteins VP1, VP2 and VP3, preferably, the SV40 VP1 or any peptide, fragment, mutant, derivative and mixtures thereof or of virus-like particles (VLP's) comprising the same, as the active ingredient in compositions for the treatment of pathologic disorders, preferably disorders associated with inactivation of cellular proteins involved with quality control processes, particularly, chaperones. The invention further provides methods for the treatment of such disorders and the use of the SV40 capsid proteins for the preparation of pharmaceutical compositions.
US08637445B2
The invention provides a benefit agent delivery particle comprising hydroxylpropyl cellulose. The benefit agent delivery particle may further comprise a non-polysaccharide polymer, preferably an aminoplast polymer. The benefit agent delivery particle may comprise a perfume. The invention also provides a process for the manufacture of the particles in which perfume oil is encapsulated using emulsion polymerization to form core-shell particles, (in the alternative the perfume may be adsorbed later) and, a further polymer layer is formed on the outer surface of the core shell-particles in the presence of the delivery aid.
US08637444B2
A method of delivering a material to a person comprising applying an anhydrous composition to a person, wherein the anhydrous composition comprises a base and metal organic framework formed from a recyclable porous material with the material adsorbed into the metal organic framework, and the recyclable porous material has a structure that breaks down when contacted with water to release the material. An anhydrous composition comprising a base and a metal organic framework formed from a recyclable porous material with the material adsorbed into the metal organic framework, wherein the recyclable porous material has a structure that breaks down when contacted with water to release the material.
US08637439B2
Compositions adapted for use as a bathing (shower or bath) gel for personal cleansing are provided, the compositions containing reduced loadings of relatively harsh anionic surfactants and of fragrance oils, but retaining a spectrum of functional properties perceived by consumers as desirable. The compositions include lower concentrations of anionic surfactants compared to standard bathing gel compositions, but the addition of quantities of a long-chain alkyl, hydroxyalkyl cellulose derivative to the composition preserves or enhances functional properties such as viscosity, skin mildness, foam generation on lathering, subjective perceived cleansing appreciation, and fragrance performance. The bathing gels provide an environmental benefit such as reduced surfactant loading, biodegradability, and aquatic toxicity of wastewater streams when used in the place of standard bathing gels.
US08637438B2
A lubricating oil composition for internal combustion engines comprising a base oil containing at least one component selected from an α-olefin oligomer having 16 to 40 carbon atoms obtained by oligomerizing α-olefin(s) having 2 to 20 carbon atoms using a metallocene catalyst, and the hydrogenated derivative thereof; an α-olefin oligomer having 16 to 40 carbon atoms derived from an α-olefin dimer obtained using a metallocene catalyst, and the hydrogenated derivative thereof; and the like. The lubricating oil composition has an excellent low-temperature fluidity, a low evaporativity, and a good oxidation stability.
US08637432B2
Alkyl ether sulfates having 1 to 9 carbon atoms in the alkyl chain and 1 to 20 alkyleneoxy units in the ether moiety are suitable for use as low-foam additives for enhancing the activity of water-soluble or partially water-soluble agrochemicals. They can be used to produce low-foam preparations for crop protection.
US08637423B2
This invention relates to a catalyst and method for hydrodesulfurizing naphtha. More particularly, a Co/Mo metal hydrogenation component is loaded on a high temperature alumina support in the presence of a dispersion aid to produce a catalyst that is then used for hydrodesulrurizing naphtha. The high temperature alumina support has a defined surface area that minimizes olefin saturation.
US08637421B2
The present invention discloses a catalyst system based on a metallocene catalyst component and a new single site catalyst component for the production in a single reactor of improved polyolefins having a bimodal molecular weight distribution.
US08637412B2
A first PECVD process incorporating a silicon oxide precursor alone and then with an organo-silicon precursor with increasing flow while the flow of the silicon oxide precursor is reduced to zero provides a graded carbon adhesion layer whereby the content of C increases with layer thickness and a second PECVD process incorporating an organo-silicon precursor including an organic porogen provides a multiphase ultra-low k dielectric. The multiphase ultra-low k PECVD process uses high frequency radio frequency power just above plasma initiation in a PECVD chamber. An energy post treatment is also provided. A porous SiCOH dielectric material having a k less than 2.7 and a modulus of elasticity greater than 7 GPa is formed.
US08637411B2
Methods of depositing a film on a substrate surface include surface mediated reactions in which a film is grown over one or more cycles of reactant adsorption and reaction. In one aspect, the method is characterized by intermittent delivery of dopant species to the film between the cycles of adsorption and reaction.
US08637408B2
Apparatus and methods are provided for efficiently reclaiming solvents used to clean surfaces of semiconductor wafers, etc. More particularly, embodiments of the present invention provide an in-situ reclaim approach that utilizes condensing mechanisms to reclaim evaporated solvent components. In these embodiments, the condensing can occur within a proximity head itself and/or along a vacuum line running from the proximity head to a vacuum tank. Other embodiments of the present invention provide an in-situ reclaim approach that prevents the evaporation of solvents at the onset by maintaining appropriate equilibrium gas phase concentrations between the liquid chemistries and gases used to process wafer surfaces.
US08637406B1
At least one mask layer formed over a substrate includes at least one of a dielectric material and a metallic material. By forming a first pattern in one of the at least one mask layer, a patterned mask layer including said first pattern is formed. An overlying structure including a second pattern that includes at least one blocking area is formed over said patterned mask layer. Portions of said patterned mask layer that do not underlie said blocking area are removed. The remaining portions of the patterned mask layer include a composite pattern that is an intersection of the first pattern and the second pattern. The patterned mask layer includes a dielectric material or a metallic material, and thus, enables high fidelity pattern transfer into an underlying material layer.
US08637405B2
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.
US08637401B1
A method is explained that allows for a via to be filled with a dispensed material while the substrate is in continuous movement. A device is described that allows for a via to be filled while the target substrate is in continuous movement. The device consists of a material jetting system, a machine vision system that can detect the optimum trigger point, an electronic control circuit, a feedback mechanism and a web handling provision.
US08637400B2
A method of forming a semiconductor structure includes forming a sacrificial conductive material layer. The method also includes forming a trench in the sacrificial conductive material layer. The method further includes forming a conductive feature in the trench. The method additionally includes removing the sacrificial conductive material layer selective to the conductive feature. The method also includes forming an insulating layer around the conductive feature to embed the conductive feature in the insulating layer.
US08637395B2
A single damascene or dual damascene interconnect structure fabricated with a photo-patternable low-k dielectric (PPLK) which is cured after etching. This method prevents the PPLK damage and the tapering of the edges of the interconnect structure. In one embodiment, the method of the present invention includes depositing a photo-patternable low-k (PPLK) material atop a substrate. The at least one PPLK material is patterned, creating a single damascene structure. For dual damascene structures, a second PPLK layer is coated and patterned. An etch process is performed to transfer the pattern from the PPLK material into at least a portion of the substrate. A diffusion liner and a conductive material can be deposited after the etch process. The resulting structure is cured anytime after etching in order to transform the resist like PPLK into a permanent low-k material that remains within the structure.
US08637390B2
Metal gate structures and methods for forming thereof are provided herein. In some embodiments, a method for forming a metal gate structure on a substrate having a feature formed in a high k dielectric layer may include depositing a first layer within the feature atop the dielectric layer; depositing a second layer comprising cobalt or nickel within the feature atop the first layer; and depositing a third layer comprising a metal within the feature atop the second layer to fill the feature, wherein at least one of the first or second layers forms a wetting layer to form a nucleation layer for a subsequently deposited layer, wherein one of the first, second, or third layers forms a work function layer, and wherein the third layer forms a gate electrode.
US08637388B2
A heat generating component of a semiconductor device is located between two heavily doped semiconductor regions in a semiconductor substrate. The heat generating component may be a middle portion of a diode having a light doping, a lightly doped p-n junction between a cathode and anode of a silicon controlled rectifier, or a resistive portion of a doped semiconductor resistor. At least one thermally conductive via comprising a metal or a non-metallic conductive material is place directly on the heat generating component. Alternatively, a thin dielectric layer may be formed between the heat generating component and the at least one thermally conductive via. The at least one thermally conductive via may, or may not, be connected to a back-end-of-line metal wire, which may be connected to higher level of metal wiring or to a handle substrate through a buried insulator layer.
US08637386B2
An electronic device includes a silicon carbide layer having a first conductivity type and a main junction adjacent a surface of the silicon carbide layer, and a junction termination region at the surface of the silicon carbide layer adjacent the main junction. Charge in the junction termination region decreases with lateral distance from the main junction, and a maximum charge in the junction termination region may be less than about 2×1014 cm−2.
US08637369B2
An embodiment of a method for manufacturing a power device with conductive gate structures inside etched trenches. Such trenches include sidewalls and a bottom, wherein covering the sidewalls and the bottom of the trench is a first insulating coating layer. In the formation of the conductive gate structure, openings within the first material in the trench are made such that a conductive central region of a second conductive material having a different resistivity than the first conductive material are able to be electrically coupled together through a plurality of conductive bridges between said second conductive coating layer and said conductive central region.
US08637368B2
Fabricating a semiconductor device includes: forming a gate trench in an epitaxial layer overlaying a semiconductor substrate; disposing gate material in the gate trench; forming a body in the epitaxial layer; forming a source in the body; forming an active region contact trench that has a varying trench depth; and disposing a contact electrode within the active region contact trench. Forming the active region contact trench includes performing a first etch to form a first contact trench depth associated with a first region, and performing a second etch to form a second contact trench depth associated with a second region. The first contact trench depth is substantially different from the second contact trench depth.
US08637367B2
Method for producing an insulation layer between a first electrode and a second electrode in a trench of a semiconductor body, wherein the method comprises the following features: providing a semiconductor body with a trench formed therein, wherein a first electrode is formed in a lower part of the trench, producing an insulation layer on the first electrode and at the sidewalls of the trench in an upper part of the trench in such a way that the insulation layer is formed in a U-shaped fashion in the trench, producing a protective layer on the insulation layer at least at the bottom of the remaining void in the trench, removing the insulation layer at the sidewalls of the trench in the upper part of the trench, removing the protective layer, producing a second electrode at least on the insulation layer above the first electrode.
US08637366B2
A memory cell according to the present invention comprises a bottom conductor, a doped semiconductor pillar, and a top conductor. The memory cell does not include a dielectric rupture antifuse separating the doped semiconductor pillar from either conductor, or within the semiconductor pillar. The memory cell is formed in a high-impedance state, in which little or no current flows between the conductors on application of a read voltage. Application of a programming voltage programs the cell, converting the memory cell from its initial high-impedance state to a low-impedance state. A monolithic three dimensional memory array of such cells can be formed, comprising multiple memory levels, the levels monolithically formed above one another.
US08637362B2
A memory array with data/bit lines extending generally in a first direction formed in an upper surface of a substrate and access transistors extending generally upward and aligned generally atop a corresponding data/bit line. The access transistors have a pillar extending generally upward with a source region formed so as to be in electrical communication with the corresponding data/bit line and a drain region formed generally at an upper portion of the pillar and a surround gate structure substantially completely encompassing the pillar in lateral directions and extending substantially the entire vertical extent of the pillar and word lines extending generally in a second direction and in electrical contact with a corresponding surround gate structure at at least a first surface thereof such that bias voltage applied to a given word line is communicated substantially uniformly in a laterally symmetric extent about the corresponding pillar via the surround gate structure.
US08637356B2
A non-volatile bistable nano-electromechanical switch is provided for use in memory devices and microprocessors. The switch employs carbon nanotubes as the actuation element. A method has been developed for fabricating nanoswitches having one single-walled carbon nanotube as the actuator. The actuation of two different states can be achieved using the same low voltage for each state.
US08637354B2
When a transistor including a conductive layer having a three-layer structure is manufactured, three-stage etching is performed. In the first etching process, an etching method in which the etching rates for the second film and the third film are high is employed, and the first etching process is performed until the first film is at least exposed. In the second etching process, an etching method in which the etching rate for the first film is higher than that in the first etching process and the etching rate for a “layer provided below and in contact with the first film” is lower than that in the first etching process is employed. In the third etching process, an etching method in which the etching rates for the first to the third films are higher than those in the second etching process is preferably employed.
US08637351B2
The invention relates in a general aspect to a method of making vertically protruding elements on a substrate, said elements having a tip comprising at least one inclined surface and an elongated body portion extending between said substrate and said tip. The method comprises an anisotropic, crystal plane dependent etch forming said inclined surface(s); and an anisotropic, non crystal plane dependent etch forming said elongated body portion; combined with suitable patterning processes defining said protruding elements to have a predetermined base geometry.
US08637350B2
A method of manufacturing a chip-stacked semiconductor package, the method including preparing a base wafer including a plurality of first chips each having a through-silicon via (TSV); bonding the base wafer including the plurality of first chips to a supporting carrier; preparing a plurality of second chips; forming stacked chips by bonding the plurality of second chips to the plurality of first chips; sealing the stacked chips with a sealing portion; and separating the stacked chips from each other.
US08637348B2
An insulating layer which releases a large amount of oxygen is used as an insulating layer in contact with a channel region of an oxide semiconductor layer, and an insulating layer which releases a small amount of oxygen is used as an insulating layer in contact with a source region and a drain region of the oxide semiconductor layer. By releasing oxygen from the insulating layer which releases a large amount of oxygen, oxygen deficiency in the channel region and an interface state density between the insulating layer and the channel region can be reduced, so that a highly reliable semiconductor device having small variation in electrical characteristics can be manufactured. The source region and the drain region are provided in contact with the insulating layer which releases a small amount of oxygen, thereby suppressing the increase of the resistance of the source region and the drain region.
US08637336B2
A method of producing a semiconductor wafer, which includes: placing a wafer (10) provided with a substrate (11) and a semiconductor layer (20) formed thereon, on a carrier plate (fixing plate) (31) of a grinder via fixing wax (33a and 33b) such that the surface (10a) to be ground faces upward; heating the carrier plate to soften the fixing wax; pressure-contacting the wafer from the side of the surface (10a) to be ground using an air bag such that a portion of the softened fixing wax spreads and protrudes from the peripheral edge of the wafer; cooling the carrier plate while applying pressure to cure the fixing wax and fix the wafer onto the carrier plate; and rotating the surface (10a) to be ground of the fixed wafer while pressure-contacting the surface (10a) to the grinding plate of the grinder, thereby grinding the surface (10a) to be ground.
US08637328B2
An integrated circuit and method for making an integrated circuit including doping a semiconductor body is disclosed. One embodiment provides defect-correlated donors and/or acceptors. The defects required for this are produced by electron irradiation of the semiconductor body. Form defect-correlated donors and/or acceptors with elements or element compounds are introduced into the semiconductor body.
US08637319B2
A method for detecting human or animal blood traces on a surface is described. The method is fundamentally based on the reaction of luminol and includes the preliminary operation of atomizing an inorganic powder suspension, such as titania, silica, alumina, hydroxyapatite, or the like, onto the surface to be investigated, after which a composition of luminol, a peroxidic oxidizing agent and an alkaline agent in an amount providing a pH within the range of 10 to 14, is atomized on the surface. A kit for carrying out the detection method of the invention is also described.
US08637315B2
Processes vectors and engineered cell lines for large-scale transfection and protein production in mammalian cells, especially Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells are described in which transfection efficiencies are realized through the use of a single vector system, the use of functional oriP sequences in all plasmids, the use of codon-optimized Epstein-Barr virus nuclear antigen-1 (EBNA1) constructs the use of a fusion protein between a truncated Epstein-Barr virus nuclear antigenen-1c (EBNA1c) protein and a herpes simplex virus protein VP16, the use of a 40 kDa fully deacetylated poly(ethylenimine) as a transfection reagent, the use of co-expression of a fibroblast growth factor (FGF) and/or the use of protein kinase B to potentiate heterologous gene expression enhancement by valproic acid (VPA).
US08637310B2
Disclosed herein is the finding that treatment with a ROCK inhibitor increases proliferation and induces immortalization of primary keratinocytes. Accordingly, provided is a method of immortalizing primary keratinocytes by exposure to a ROCK inhibitor. Also provided are immortalized primary keratinocytes produced by the described method, as well as organotypic tissue equivalents and cell cultures comprising the immortalized primary keratinocytes. Furthermore, ROCK inhibitor-treated cells show a greatly increased ability to support viral DNA replication of both “low risk” and “high risk” HPV genomes, indicating that ROCK inhibitors will be useful for studying the life cycles of a wide range of HPVs.
US08637308B2
The present invention provides a method for activating a Natural Killer (NK) cell by contacting the NK cell in vitro with an activating tumor cell preparation (ATCP). The invention also provides an activated NK cell produced by such a method and its use in the treatment of cancer.
US08637305B2
The invention disclosed herein is directed to methods of identifying a polypeptide suitable for epitope liberation including, for example, the steps of identifying an epitope of interest; providing a substrate polypeptide sequence including the epitope, wherein the substrate polypeptide permits processing by a proteasome; contacting the substrate polypeptide with a composition including the proteasome, under conditions that support processing of the substrate polypeptide by the proteasome; and assaying for liberation of the epitope. The invention further relates to vectors including a housekeeping epitope expression cassette. The housekeeping epitope(s) can be derived from a target-associated antigen, and the housekeeping epitope can be liberatable, that is capable of liberation, from a translation product of the cassette by immunoproteasome processing. The invention also relates to a method of activating a T cell comprising contacting a substrate polypeptide with an APC and contacting the APC with a T cell.
US08637290B2
The invention provides novel polypeptides having phospholipase activity, including, e.g., phospholipase A, B, C and D activity, patatin activity, phosphatidic acid phosphatases (PAP) and/or lipid acyl hydrolase (LAH) activity, nucleic acids encoding them and antibodies that bind to them. Industrial methods, e.g., oil degumming, and products comprising use of these phospholipases are also provided.
US08637286B2
A non-naturally occurring microbial organism includes a microbial organism having a reductive TCA or Wood-Ljungdahl pathway in which at least one exogenous nucleic acid encoding these pathway enzymes is expressed in a sufficient amount to enhance carbon flux through acetyl-CoA. A method for enhancing carbon flux through acetyl-CoA includes culturing theses non-naturally occurring microbial organisms under conditions and for a sufficient period of time to produce a product having acetyl-CoA as a building block. Another non-naturally occurring microbial organism includes at least one exogenous nucleic acid encoding an enzyme expressed in a sufficient amount to enhance the availability of reducing equivalents in the presence of carbon monoxide or hydrogen, thereby increasing the yield of redox-limited products via carbohydrate-based carbon feedstock. A method for enhancing the availability of reducing equivalents in the presence of carbon monoxide or hydrogen includes culturing this organism for a sufficient period of time to produce a product.
US08637279B2
Disclosed herein is a recombinant Escherichia coli (E. coli) capable of producing D-xylonic acid from D-xylose and a method for producing D-xylonic acid using the same. The recombinant E. coli producing D-xylonic acid from D-xylose according to the present invention is a recombinant E. coli EWX4 (Microorganism deposition number KCTC11988BP) capable of producing D-xylonic acid from D-xylose. When utilizing the recombinant E. coli prepared by the method of the present invention, it is possible to produce D-xylonic acid from D-xylose with high yield while reducing production cost using sole carbon source.
US08637275B2
A new method of diagnosing postprandial hyperglycemia by indirectly measuring a blood glucose level is provided. Postprandial hyperglycemia is detected by measuring a glycation degree of lysine in hemoglobin, in which a side chain amino group of lysine is glycated (GHbLys %). Measurement of GHbLys % can be performed by cleaving hemoglobin by protease, treating a glycated part of a lysine residue in the obtained cleavage product of hemoglobin with fructosyl amino acid oxidase, and measuring a redox reaction between the glycated part and fructosyl amino acid oxidase.
US08637274B2
It is intended to provide an inhibitor for the formation of a γ-secretase complex which comprises a cholesterol synthesis inhibitor or a protein geranylgeranylation regulator as the active ingredient; and use of a cholesterol synthesis inhibitor or a protein geranylgeranylation regulator for producing the same. It is also intended to provide a method of screening a substance having an effect of inhibiting the formation of an active complex of γ-secretase which comprises assaying the activity of inhibiting cholesterol synthesis or quantifying cholesterol accumulated in lipid rafts in cells. It is also intended to provide a method of screening a cholesterol synthesis inhibitor, a protein geranylgeranylation regulator or an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor which comprises assaying the effect of inhibiting the formation of an active complex of γ-secretase. Moreover, it is intended to provide a method of screening an effect of a test substance on γ-secretase which comprises measuring the distribution of constituents (niscastrin, APH-1, Pen-2 and so on) required by γ-secretase for the formation of its active complex in cells.
US08637273B2
The present invention provides antagonizing antibodies that bind to interleukin-7 receptor (IL-7R). The invention further provides a method of obtaining such antibodies and antibody-encoding nucleic acids. The invention further relates to therapeutic methods for use of these antibodies and antigen-binding portions thereof for the treatment and/or prevention of type 2 diabetes and immunological disorders, including type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, graft-versus-host disease, and lupus.
US08637272B2
The present invention provides an industrially useful improved halohydrin epoxidase, a method for producing the same, and a method for producing an epihalohydrin or 4-halo-3-hydroxybutyronitrile using the same. The improved halohydrin epoxidase of the present invention consists of an amino acid sequence in which a specific amino acid substitution mutation is introduced into an amino acid sequence of a wild-type halohydrin epoxidase comprising predetermined amino acid sequences I and II.
US08637271B2
Polymeric indicators are provided for visually monitoring, detecting, and/or determining the presence of metabolic byproducts from harmful or potentially harmful microorganisms.
US08637269B2
Melamine is a common industrial chemical contaminant which should be absent from food and feed supplies due to melamine's toxicity. Provided is a method to assess the presence of melamine in samples prepared from compositions. The method may include using a microbial enzyme called melamine deaminase which hydrolyzes melamine to ammeline and ammonia. The method may include assessing the presence of any ammonia produced from an enzymatic reaction between the sample and the enzyme.
US08637266B2
Methods for identifying compounds useful for treating diseases and conditions of the oral cavity are described herein.
US08637262B2
Provided are purified and isolated VEGF-C polypeptides capable of binding to at least one of KDR receptor tyrosine kinase (VEGFR-2) and Flt4 receptor tyrosine kinase (VEGFR-3); analogs of such peptides that have VEGF-C-like or VEGF-like biological activities or that are VEGF or VEGF-C inhibitors; polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides; vectors and host cells that embody the polynucleotides; pharmaceutical compositions and diagnostic reagents comprising the polypeptides; and methods of making and using the polypeptides. Methods of inhibiting endothelial cell proliferation are also provided.
US08637258B2
The present invention relates to a method of producing an antibody that cross-reacts with multiple KIR2DL polypeptides and neutralizes the inhibitory activity of such polypeptides.
US08637255B2
The nucleic acid sequences of adeno-associated virus (AAV) serotype 1 are provided, as are vectors and host cells containing these sequences and functional fragments thereof. Also provided are methods of delivering genes via AAV-1 derived vectors.
US08637248B2
In amplifying a region containing two allelic genes, the polymorphism of one of the allelic genes is positioned at or near the 3′ end of an amplification primer, so that the chain would extend only from one of the two primers, one that matches the mutant type nucleotide(s) and one that matches the wild-type nucleotide(s). The other primer is unaffected by the allelic genes but is positioned to include the other allelic gene in the amplicon. The PCR amplifies only the target genomic DNA having one specific allele of the first allelic gene. The technique exploits the fact that the haplotype of the first and the second allelic genes can be determined if the allele of the second allelic gene in the amplicon can be identified. Designing probes with complementary sequences for identifying the two alleles (major and minor) of the second allelic gene, and fixing the probe set on a solid support and hybridizing them with the amplicon to identify the probe that forms a hybrid, are characteristic features of the present invention.
US08637242B2
Provided are methods and apparatuses for performing sequencing using droplet manipulation, for example, via electrowetting-based techniques. Also provided are integrated methods and apparatuses for performing sample preparation and sequencing on the same apparatus. In addition, provided are methods of reducing reagent waste and preloaded consumable cartridges comprising reagents for sample preparation and/or sequencing.
US08637232B2
The present invention pertains to the monitoring and treatment of lung transplant recipients. In particular, the invention pertains to the use of biomarkers to predict or detect post-lung transplantation complications (e.g., organ rejection, acute organ rejection, organ injury, bronchiolitis obliterans, bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome, organizing pneumonia), fibroproliferative repair responses, interstitial lung diseases (e.g., idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and other fibrotic lung diseases), and other immune-mediated lung diseases (e.g., graft versus host disease, scleroderma).
US08637228B1
A color photographic element has a reflective support and a blue light sensitive color record, a green light sensitive color record, and a red light sensitive color record and can be used to provide color photographic prints. The element also has a non-light sensitive layer over the red light sensitive color record. This non-light sensitive layer has (1) a hydrophilic colloid in an amount of at least 200 mg/m2 to and including 2,000 mg/m2, (2) matte particles, and (3) an acrylate latex polymer having latex particles having an average size of less than 1 μm and a glass transition temperature of at least 70° C. The dry weight ratio of the acrylate latex polymer to the hydrophilic colloid is at least 0.8:1 and the dry weight ratio of the acrylate latex polymer to the total matte particles is at least 15:1.
US08637218B2
A carrier for developing electrostatic latent image, including a core material; and a coated layer covering the core material, including a binder resin and a particulate material, wherein the core material is exposed on the surface of the carrier at an areal ratio of from 0.1 to 5.0% and has the largest exposed part having an areal ratio not greater than 0.03%, and wherein the coated layer comprises the particulate material in an amount of from 100 to 500 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the binder resin.
US08637214B2
Methods are provided for fabricating a semiconductor device. One method comprises providing a first pattern having a first polygon, the first polygon having a first tonality and having a first side and a second side, the first side adjacent to a second polygon having a second tonality, and the second side adjacent to a third polygon having the second tonality, and forming a second pattern by reversing the tonality of the first pattern. The method further comprises forming a third pattern from the second pattern by converting the second polygon from the first tonality to the second tonality forming a fourth pattern from the second pattern by converting the third polygon from the first tonality to the second tonality forming a fifth pattern by reversing the tonality of the third pattern, and forming a sixth pattern by reversing the tonality of the fourth pattern.
US08637208B2
The electrode for a fuel cell according to one embodiment of the present invention includes an electrode substrate and a catalyst layer disposed on the electrode substrate, the catalyst layer including metal nanoparticles, a binder and a catalyst. The metal nanoparticles in the catalyst layer improve electrical conductivity, and also have catalyst activity to implement a catalytic synergetic effect so as to provide a high power fuel cell.
US08637206B2
The invention provides catalysts which are not corroded in acidic electrolytes or at high potential and have excellent durability and high oxygen reducing ability. The catalysts include a niobium-containing oxycarbonitride having I2/(I1+I2) of not less than 0.25 wherein I1 is the maximum X-ray diffraction intensity at diffraction angles 2θ of 25.45 to 25.65 degrees and I2 is the maximum X-ray diffraction intensity at diffraction angles 2θ=2θ of 25.65 to 26.0 degrees according to X-ray powder diffractometry (Cu—Kα radiation).
US08637196B2
A device to produce electricity by a chemical reaction without the addition of liquid electrolyte comprises an anode electrode, a polymer membrane electrolyte fabricated to conduct hydroxyl (OH—) ions, the membrane being in physical contact with the anode electrode on a first side of the membrane, and a cathode electrode in physical contact with a second side of the membrane. The anode electrode and cathode electrode contain catalysts, and the catalysts are constructed substantially entirely from non-precious metal catalysts. Water may be transferred to the cathode side of the membrane from an external source of water.
US08637193B2
In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a fuel cell catalyst having a catalyst surface bearing a non-occluding layer of iridium. In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a fuel cell catalyst comprising a catalyst surface bearing a sub-monolayer of iridium. In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a fuel cell catalyst comprising a catalyst surface bearing a layer of iridium having a planar equivalent thickness of between 1 and 100 Angstroms. In some embodiments, the fuel cell catalyst comprises nanostructured elements comprising microstructured support whiskers bearing a thin film of nanoscopic catalyst particles. The layer of iridium typically has a planar equivalent thickness of between 1 and 100 Angstroms and more typically between 5 and 60 Angstroms. The fuel cell catalyst typically comprises no electrically conductive carbon material and typically comprises at least a portion of the iridium in the zero oxidation state.
US08637186B2
An electrode for a battery and a method for manufacturing the same are disclosed. The electrode for a battery according to the present invention comprising silicon nanostructures integrally formed on a silicon thin film and having a period array can reduce the internal resistance, have better charge transport properties, and reduce the structural stress, thereby exhibiting high storage capacity, high efficiency charge/discharge characteristics, and long charge/discharge cycle characteristics. Moreover, the method for manufacturing the electrode for a battery according to the present invention can simply and easily form a nanopattern with nanostructures on a silicon thin film using laser interference lithography (LIL) and dry etching.
US08637179B2
A battery which can be assembled by using reduced man-hours. The battery has a battery cell having a positive electrode terminal and a negative electrode terminal which are arranged on one side surface of the battery cell, a circuit board placed facing the one side surface of the battery cell and having a first board terminal and a second board terminal, a first conduction member for conducting the positive electrode terminal and first board terminal to each other, a second conductive member for conducting the negative electrode terminal and the second board terminal to each other, a first cover placed between the circuit board and the battery cell, a second cover placed facing the first cover with the circuit board sandwiched between the first and second covers, a connection section for connecting the first and second covers to each other, and a cover for covering the circuit board. The circuit board is mounted to the one side surface of the battery cell while being sandwiched between the first and second covers.
US08637171B2
The invention relates to a device comprising a reactor, where the reactor comprises an anode compartment and a cathode compartment, and where the anode compartment comprises a) an anodophilic micro-organism capable of oxidizing an electron donor compound, and b) a living plant or part thereof. The invention also relates to a method for converting light energy into electrical energy and/or hydrogen, where a feedstock comprising an electron donor compound is introduced into the device.
US08637140B2
A method for defining an electrically conductive metalized structure, which may comprise an electrode or trace, on the surface of a three-dimensional element. The three-dimensional element may comprise a glass microsphere or shell resonator. A laser direct write grayscale photolithographic process is used in conjunction with electrically conductive metal deposition processes to define one or more electrically conductive metal structures on the surfaces of the three dimensional element.
US08637127B2
Embodiments of the present invention include composite articles comprising at least a first region and a second region and methods of making such articles. The first region may comprise a first composite material, wherein the first region comprises less than 5 wt. % cubic carbides by weight, and the second region may comprise a second composite material, wherein the second composite material differs from the first composite material in at least one characteristic. The composite article may additionally comprise at least one coolant channel. In certain embodiments, the first and second composite material may individually comprise hard particles in a binder, wherein the hard particles independently comprise at least one of a carbide, a nitride, a boride, a silicide, an oxide, and solid solutions thereof and the binder comprises at least one metal selected from cobalt, nickel, iron and alloys thereof. In specific embodiments, the first composite material and the second composite material may individually comprise metal carbides in a binder, such as a cemented carbide.
US08637115B2
Certain embodiments of the invention may include systems and methods curing a coated optical fiber. The method includes drawing the coated optical fiber through a gas chamber filled with a predetermined gas, drawing the fiber through a cure tube coupled to the gas chamber, and purging at least a portion of an inner surface of the cure tube with a purge gas as the coated optical fiber is drawn through the cure tube.
US08637113B2
A method of forming a non-volatile resistive oxide memory array includes forming a plurality of one of conductive word lines or conductive bit lines over a substrate. Metal oxide-comprising material is formed over the plurality of said one of the word lines or bit lines. A series of elongated trenches is provided over the plurality of said one of the word lines or bit lines. A plurality of self-assembled block copolymer lines is formed within individual of the trenches in registered alignment with and between the trench sidewalls. A plurality of the other of conductive word lines or conductive bit lines is provided from said plurality of self-assembled block copolymer lines to form individually programmable junctions comprising said metal oxide-comprising material where the word lines and bit lines cross one another.
US08637111B2
Methods for modulating the release rate of a drug coated stent are disclosed.
US08637103B2
Described herein are methods for preparing isomaltooligosaccharides (“IMOs”) from a carbohydrate substrate and uses thereof. In the presence of a maltogenic enzyme and additional IMO precursors, an Aspergillus sp. invertase is capable of producing IMOs from a starch slurry. The ability of the invertase to function as a transglucosidase enzyme imparts a simultaneous mechanism for IMO saccharification.
US08637094B2
An antiviral composition and a method of treating viral conditions comprising colloidal silver, silver nitrate, or both, and an antiviral natural herb or a natural herb from the Rutaceae family, such as Ruta graveolens, Myrtaceae family, such as Melaleuca alternifolia, Cupressaceae family, such as Thuja occidentalis, and the Moraceae family, such as fig, or any combination thereof.
US08637093B2
A composition for topical application to the skin comprises a cocoa polyphenol extract in combination with an SUS-rich fat, wherein the cocoa polyphenol extract is present in an amount of less than 15% by weight based on the weight of the SUS-rich fat, and a cosmetically acceptable carrier. The composition and the extract that it contains may increase skin elasticity and thickness and/or have an anti-wrinkle effect, may cause the depigmentation of age spots, improve skin renewal and/or reduce skin dryness such as reducing discomfort of chapped hands.
US08637092B2
The present invention relates to methods for preparing a pharmaceutical composition for treating diabetes mellitus and the pharmaceutical composition prepared by the methods. The pharmaceutical composition of the present invention comprises extracts of the following crude drugs: 5-40 weight parts of Radix Trichosanthis (Tianhuafen), 10-30 weight parts of Radix Bupleuri (Chaihu), 3-15 weight parts of Fructus Aurantii Immaturus (Zhishi), 1-6 weight parts of Radix et Rhizoma Rhei (Dahuang), 1-12 weight parts of Rhizoma Pinelliae (Banxia), 3-15 weight parts of Radix Scutellariae (Huangqin), 1-12 weight parts of Rhizoma Coptidis (Huanglian), 3-15 weight parts of Radix Paeoniae Alba (Baishao) and 5-20 weight parts of Fructus Mume (Wumei), and optionally comprises pharmaceutically acceptable excipient. Also, the pharmaceutical composition of the present invention can further comprise Fructus Crataegi (Shanzha). Additionally, the present invention discloses four methods for preparing the pharmaceutical composition.
US08637091B2
The present invention provides a composition comprising functional mineral that is substantially free of crystalline silica. The agricultural particle film composition may be applied to horticultural plants and animals.
US08637090B2
A method and composition for treatment of bacterial infections caused by gram negative or gram positive bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Rhodococcus equi, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Klebsiella oxytoca, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Haemophilus influenzae, Proteus mirabilis, Enterobacter species, Serratia marcescens as well as those caused by Burkholderia cepacia, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, Alcaligenes xylosoxidans, and multidrug resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, using a formulation containing gallium (III), in a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or complex thereof.
US08637077B2
Sustained release preparations, which show suppressed initial release of a physiologically active substance and can release a constant amount of the physiologically active substance over a long period of time, and dispersion vehicle thereof can be obtained by adding a cationic substance or polyols to the outside of a matrix or dispersion vehicle thereof. Thus, sustained release preparations, which show suppressed initial release of a physiologically active substance immediately after the administration and can release a constant amount of the physiologically active substance over a long period of time and dispersion vehicle thereof can be provided.
US08637070B2
Described herein are liquid rapamycin formulations. Described herein are methods of treating or preventing diseases or conditions, such as choroidal neovascularization, wet AMD and dry AMD, and preventing transition of dry AMD to wet AMD, using the liquid rapamycin formulations described herein.
US08637065B2
Methods for inducing differentiation of dermis-derived cells to serve as a source of chondrocytes and associated methods of use in forming tissue engineered constructs. One example of a method is a method for inducing differentiation of cells into chondrocytes comprising providing aggrecan sensitive isolated dermis cells and seeding the cells onto an aggrecan coated surface.
US08637064B2
A process for making an implantable material comprising a composite of a biocompatible polymer and a bioactive agent. The composite combines desirable mechanical properties of polymers and the bioactivity of tissue or one or more component of tissue. More particularly, but not exclusively, the invention relates to methods for the manufacture of implantable materials, devices and components via a powder molding process.
US08637060B2
A spot-on pesticide composition for animals, specifically mammals, including dogs and cats, which composition comprises a combination of active components, including fipronil and a pyrethroid, and optionally an insect growth regulator, in doses and proportions which are parasiticidally effective against a variety of insects and pests, and in a formulation which is convenient for local application to the animal's skin, preferably localized over a small surface area.
US08637059B2
The present invention relates to mixtures comprising as active components a) carbamate derivatives of the formula (I) in which the substituents and the index have the following meaning: T is CH or N n is 0, 1 or 2 R is halogen, C1-C4-alkyl or C1-C4-haloalkyl, it being possible for the radicals R to be different when n is 2, and b) at least one compound of the formula (II).
US08637054B2
This invention concerns an ophthalmic solution including: at least one prostaglandin; a solubilizing agent; a gelling agent of the carbomer type; a carbomer polymerization-inhibiting agent; a co-gelling/co-solubilizing agent.
US08637048B2
The present invention provides compositions including siderophore receptor polypeptides and porins from gram negative microbes, and preferably, lipopolysaccharide at a concentration of no greater than about 10.0 endotoxin units per milliliter. The present invention also provides methods of making and methods of using such compositions, including inducing the production of antibody in an animal.
US08637043B2
The inventors have discovered that a CKβ8-1 truncation variant, CKβ8-1 (25-116), is a bifunctional ligand for two distinct GPCRs, chemokine receptor CCR1 and formyl peptide receptor like 1 (FPRL1). Hence, the inventors have discovered that, in addition to its functional activity on CCR1, CKβ8-1(25-116) is also a functional ligand for the GPCR receptor FPRL1 that is involved in inflammatory reactions and innate immunity by recruiting monocytes and neutrophils. In addition, the inventors have discovered an alternatively spliced exon of CKβ8-1, named SHAAGtide. SHAAGtide, along with its parent chemokine CKβ8-1 (25-116), is fully functional on both monocytes and neutrophils that are known to express FPRL1.This application relates generally to enhancing immune responses. Such immune responses may be elicited by vaccine administration. Compositions and methods for inducing or enhancing an immune response to an antigen are provided. The compositions and methods are useful for vaccine formulations for therapeutic and prophylactic use (immunization) and for production of antibodies.
US08637040B2
Peptides generated from a random library that are bound by a monoclonal antibody to Chlamydial glycolipid exoantigen (GLXA) and thus mimic this antigen are disclosed. Peptides that correspond to antigen-binding regions of an anti-idiotypic antibody (mAb2) specific for anti-GLXA antibody (Ab1) which act as molecular mimics of GLXA are also disclosed used as immunogens to induce broadly reactive genus-specific anti-chlamydial antibodies. These peptides and immunogenic DNA encoding the mAb2-like peptides, microparticle or nanoparticle formulations and other formulations of these peptides are disclosed as are methods for immunizing subjects to obtain genus-specific anti-chlamydial antibodies and to treat or prevent Chlamydia-associated or induced rheumatoid arthritis.
US08637037B2
The present invention concerns the preparation of purified allergens and allergoids, both derived from whole bee venom, for the desensitization (immunotherapy) of subjects affected by a specific allergy. In particular, the present invention concerns a preparation for immunotherapy based on purified bee venom, characterized in that said bee venom is essentially mellitin-free. In addition, the preparation of a monomeric allergoid obtainable through the carbamylation or thiocarbamylation reaction of said mellitin-free bee venom, is described. Said allergoid, being characterized by reduced IgE-binding activity, may be a safer and more effective candidate for specific immunotherapy.
US08637034B2
The preset invention relates to combination pharmaceutical composition comprising an activated-potentiated from of an antibody to gamma interferon, and an activated-potentiated form of an antibody to S-100 protein and method of treating multiple sclerosis and other neurodegenerative diseases, as well as the diseases and conditions associated with neuroinfections.
US08637030B2
The present invention provides a combination pharmaceutical composition comprising a) an activated-potentiated form of an antibody to a S-100 protein, b) an activated-potentiated form of an antibody to histamine, and c) an activated-potentiated form of an antibody to TNF-alpha. Various embodiments and variants are provided. The present invention further provides a method of treating a disease or condition of functional etiology of the gastrointestinal tract, said method comprising administering to a patient in need thereof a combination pharmaceutical composition comprising a) an activated-potentiated form of an antibody to a histamine, b) an activated-potentiated form of an antibody to S-100 protein and c) an activated-potentiated form of an antibody to TNF-alpha. Various embodiments and variants are provided.
US08637024B2
Disclosed herein are fusion antibodies created to provide both an antigen-binding site that targets the CD4 receptor and an antigen-binding site that targets the HIV envelope. The fusion antibodies disclosed herein provide improved potency and breadth against HIV as compared to monospecific antibodies, and additionally provide high barrier against viral resistance. Also disclosed are pharmaceutical formulations and therapeutic methods utilizing such fusion proteins.
US08637014B2
This disclosure provides methods and compositions for inhibiting immune responses. The disclosure also provides methods and compositions for inhibiting graft rejection and promoting or prolonging graft survival.
US08637009B2
Provided are compositions comprising a cocaine esterase (CocE) and a compound that thermostabilizes the CocE. Also provided are methods of thermostabilizing a cocaine esterase. Additionally provided are methods of treating a mammal undergoing a cocaine-induced condition. Methods of determining whether a compound is a thermostabilizing agent for a protein are also provided. Uses of the above-described compositions for the treatment of a cocaine-induced condition is additionally provided. Additionally provided is an isolated nucleic acid encoding a CocE polypeptide having the substitutions L169K and G173Q, and the CocE polypeptide encoded by that nucleic acid, and pharmaceutical compositions thereof. Further provided is the use of that composition for the manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of a cocaine-induced condition and for the treatment of a cocaine-induced condition.
US08637008B2
Embodiments presented herein relate to various polymers. Some of the polymer embodiments are heparin binding polymers. Some embodiments of the heparin binding polymers can be employed to bind to heparin for methods such as separating, purifying, removing, and/or isolating heparin and heparin like molecules.
US08637005B2
The present invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising a chemotactic hematopoietic stem cell product comprising an enriched population of CD34+ cells containing a subpopulation of CD34+/CXCR-4+ cells having CXCR-4-mediated chemotactic activity, methods of preparing these compositions and use of these compositions to treat or repair vascular injury, including infarcted myocardium.
US08637002B2
Non-toxigenic strains of Aspergillus are useful biocontrol agents for preventing toxin contamination in agricultural commodities, especially those for human consumption such as peanuts and corn, for example.
US08636987B2
A method of whitening a tooth surface including contacting the surface of a tooth with an efficacious amount of a substantially non-cytotoxic composition. The non-cytotoxic composition includes chlorine dioxide and no more than about 0.25 milligrams oxy-chlorine anions per gram of the composition.
US08636985B2
Nutraceutical gum or functional food compositions comprise Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) and L-theanine in a sublingual formulation. Methods of making suitable sublingual formulations are described. Also provided is a method for reduction of stress and/or enhancement of energy and mental clarity, comprising administering to an individual in need thereof an effective amount of a nutritional composition comprising Ashwagandha herb and L-theanine, and a nutraceutically acceptable carrier, wherein the nutritional composition is administered sublingually.
US08636983B2
The present invention is antibiotic compositions, ventilator-based systems and methods relating to ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) and ventilator-associated tracheal (VAT) bronchitis. Antibiotic combinations of fosfomycin and an aminoglycoside, preferably amikacin, are administered via an inline nebulizer within the airway of the ventilator. Humidified conditions create an improved aerosol mist to treat VAP and VAT.
US08636979B2
The present invention concerns a pharmaceutical composition comprising at least one agonist of at least one Toll Like receptor (TLR) chosen from TLR 4 and 9, for use in the prophylactic treatment of septic complications of post-traumatic systemic immunodepression in a patient who has suffered one or more severe traumatic injuries and is hospitalized in particular in an intensive care unit. Preferably, said TLR 4 agonist is monophosphoryl lipid A (MPLA) or deacylated 3-O-monophosphoryl lipid A (3D-MPLA) and said TLR 9 agonist is a CpG oligodeoxynucleotide (CpG ODN).
US08636978B2
Cyclized peptide compounds containing the NGR motif of formula (I) or a pharmaceutically-acceptable salt thereof are disclosed. Compositions comprising the cyclized peptide compounds and methods of their use are also disclosed.
US08636973B2
The present invention relates to means and methods for producing crystals or crystalline substances. In particular, crystals or crystalline substances which are useful as pharmaceutical ingredients can be manufactured.
US08636972B1
Processing a composite material includes forming a nanomaterial comprising nanotubes. The nanotubes comprise first nanotubes and second nanotubes, where the first nanotubes and the second nanotubes have different lengths. The nanomaterial is combined with a matrix to yield a composite material.
US08636961B2
The present invention increases the amount of hydrogen produced or released from reactions between a metal hydride fuel and liquid reactant. The present invention also decreases the volume of a hydrogen generating cartridge by reducing the pH of the liquid reactant.
US08636958B2
A nozzle reactor includes a passage having one or more regions with a converging-diverging shape. The nozzle reactor accelerates a reacting fluid to supersonic velocities and mixes it with a feed material. The reacting fluid and the feed material may be pre-heated. The high speed collision between the reacting fluid and the feed material at elevated temperatures causes the materials to react.
US08636956B2
A sensor main unit 1 is axially split into three sub-segments. A light-emitting element 2 is attached to one end portion, and a light-receiving element 3 is attached to the other end portion. A respiratory flow path 4 is formed so as to penetrate through the center portion. The sensor main unit 1 is attached to a position on the face below the nostrils, and respiratory gas from the nostrils is guided into the respiratory flow path 4 and is caused to cross over the optical axis connected the light-emitting element 2 and the light-receiving element 3, thereby measuring a carbon dioxide gas in the respiratory gas.
US08636945B2
A method for producing crystalline particles including a mixing step of producing a mixed material containing a lead-containing material and an additional material containing lithium and boron and a first firing step of firing the mixed material at a predetermined firing temperature to form polyhedral crystalline particles. The crystalline particles are used to produce a crystallographically oriented ceramic by preparing a template layer having uniform crystal orientation in a predetermined direction by fixing the crystalline particles on a substrate, forming a shaped body including a matrix layer arranged on the template layer, the matrix layer being composed of a mixed material that contains a lead-containing material and an additional material containing lithium and boron, and firing the shaped body.
US08636944B2
A method of plastic container having a deep inset base of the type that has a standing ring for supporting the container on a flat surface includes steps of molding a container blank having a standing ring and a base projection portion that is formed beneath the standing ring and relatively displacing the base projection portion upwardly with respect to the standing ring until the base projection portion is positioned above the standing ring. An improved plastic container having a deep inset base is also disclosed.
US08636943B2
Process for manufacturing a fuel tank equipped with an internal accessory and having a plastic wall produced from a parison, said process comprising, in order, the following steps: a) the accessory and the molten parison are introduced into a mold so that the accessory is surrounded by the parison, said mold comprising cavities equipped with at least one moving part; b) a pressurized gas is introduced inside the parison to carry out a pre-blow molding of said parison; c) the pre-blow-molded parison is pressed locally against the accessory using the moving part in order to firmly attach the two without piercing the parison; d) the mold is closed and the final blow molding of the parison is carried out by flattening it against the mold cavities using the pressurized gas; and e) the tank is removed from the mold.
US08636937B2
A method for forming hierarchical patterns on an article by nanoimprinting is disclosed. The method includes using a first mold to form a primary pattern on the article at a first temperature and a first pressure, the first temperature and the first pressure being able to reduce the elastic modulus of the article; and using a second mold to form a second pattern on the primary pattern at a second temperature that is below the article's glass transition temperature, the forming of the second pattern being at a second pressure.
US08636934B2
Signage is presented comprising an in-mold plastic plate portion having a slot. The signage has a flexible tongue having a neck portion that extends outwardly from the plate portion and has a locking tip extending from the neck portion and the locking tip is formed to be received by the slot. The plastic plate portion is made of a filler material and a detectable additive such that the signage is easily detected by a metal detecting machine.
US08636933B2
Method for producing a pressed powder element, wherein the method comprises pre-pressing of loose powder to a first powder blank (14), pre-pressing of loose powder to a second powder blank (15) and pressing together the at least two pre-pressed powder blanks (14, 15) to form a pressed powder element as well as the corresponding apparatus.
US08636929B2
Process for the production of nanoporous foamed active substance-containing preparations, wherein the active substance is present embedded in a pharmaceutically acceptable polymer, wherein, in stage a) loading of a polymeric molding composition or a polymer melt with a propellant is effected at a pressure and at a temperature at which the propellant is in the supercritical state, in stage b) heating of the laden polymer molding compound or melt is carried out under pressure at a temperature which lies in the range from −40 to +60° C., preferably −20 to +55° C., and especially preferably 0 to +50° C. around the glass transition temperature of the unladen (prior to loading) polymeric molding compound and in stage c) a depressurization of the polymeric molding compound or melt laden in stage a) and heated under pressure in stage b) is effected out with a depressurization rate in the range from 15,000 to 200,000 MPa/sec.
US08636928B2
The invention provides methods of making provisional and long-term dental restorations, particularly dental veneers, implants, crowns and bridges. A shell or restoration form made of polymerizable material having good dimensional shape-stability in its uncured condition is used to make the dental restoration. A polymerizable material is introduced into the cavity of the shell form. The outer shell and injected polymerizable material are polymerized and bond together to form a hardened crown structure. In one embodiment, the restoration can be fabricated indirectly by a dental laboratory. In another version, a dental practitioner can make the restoration chairside for a patient in a dental office.
US08636918B2
A composition includes an anionic polysaccharide hybrid polymer composition and 2-phosphonobutane-1,2,4-tricarboxylic acid. In one embodiment, the polysaccharide hybrid polymer composition includes a polysaccharide residue present in an amount from approximately 5% to approximately 90% by weight of the polysaccharide hybrid polymer composition and a residue of at least one ethylenically unsaturated monomer present in an amount from approximately 10% to approximately 75% by weight of the polysaccharide hybrid polymer composition.
US08636917B2
A solution for forming a polishing slurry, the polishing slurry and related methods are disclosed. The solution for forming a polishing slurry may include 1H-benzotriazole (BTA) dissolved in an ionic surfactant such as a sodium alkyl sulfate solution, and perhaps a polyacrylic acid (PAA) solution. The solution can be filtered and used in a polishing slurry. This approach to solubilizing BTA results in a high BTA concentration in a polishing slurry without addition of foreign components to the slurry or increased safety hazard. In addition, the solution is easier to ship because it is very stable (e.g., can be frozen and thawed) and has less volume compared to conventional approaches. Further, the polishing slurry performance is vastly improved due to the removal of particles that can cause scratching.
US08636916B2
A method of forming an electrolyte solution involves combining ammonium tetrafluoroborate and a quaternary ammonium halide in a liquid solvent to form a quaternary ammonium tetrafluoroborate and an ammonium halide. The ammonium halide precipitate is removed from the solvent to form an electrolyte solution. The reactants can be added step-wise to the solvent, and the method can include using a stoichiometric excess of the ammonium tetrafluoroborate to form a substantially halide ion-free electrolyte solution. Filtration can be done at low temperatures to reduce the amount of excess bromide in the resulting electrolyte.
US08636915B2
To provide a liquid processing apparatus capable of processing substrates with a high throughput with the lesser number of nozzles for chemical-liquid, when the substrates that are horizontally held in cup bodies are liquid-processed by supplying a chemical liquid to the substrates. Taking a developing process as an example of a liquid process, two-types of developing nozzles are prepared for two types of developing methods. The developing nozzle, which is used in the method in which the nozzle is engaged with the process for a longer period of time, is individually disposed on each of a first processing module 1 and a second processing module 2. On the other hand, the developing nozzle, which is used in the method in which the nozzle is engaged with the process for a shorter period of time, is used in common in the first liquid processing module 1 and the second liquid processing module 2. The common developing nozzle is configured to wait on an intermediate position between the modules 1 and 2.
US08636913B2
The present invention generally relates to a method of forming a magnetic head while ensuring residues do not negatively impact the magnetic head. In particular, when performing a RIE process to remove DLC, oxygen gas can leave residues that will negatively impact the RIE process performed on the next substrate to enter the chamber. By utilizing CO2 rather than O2, the residues will not be created and therefore will not impact processing of the next substrate that enters the chamber.
US08636907B1
A two-stage sealed magnetic filter continuously removes magnetic and non-magnetic contaminants from liquid process streams. Elongated non-magnetic holder sleeves encasing magnet bars attract magnetic contaminants while a screen cylinder captures non-magnetic contaminants. The magnet bars are accessible without having to open the interior of the housing to the environment. Thus, during maintenance, removing the magnet bars from the holder sleeves releases the magnetic contaminants that have adhered to the holder sleeves into the screen cylinder which partially encloses the holder sleeves. Contaminants are flushed out of the magnetic filter without exposing workers to potentially hazardous substances. Polymeric sludge occluded with iron compounds can be effectively removed from streams in refineries and chemical plants. The iron compounds are formed from carbon steel which is prevalent in plant machinery and that corrodes in the presence of acidic contaminants.
US08636898B2
A liquid transfer device having a housing with a top end, a bottom end, a sidewall, and an inner cavity. The sidewall has an inner surface and an outer surface. There is a plurality of openings traversing said sidewall. Also present is a filtering surface that covers the openings. The water or other liquids are pumped or transferred with a pump contained inside the inner cavity, with a fluid exit used for carrying the water out towards exterior hosing.
US08636897B2
A use of a foulant collector in a vessel or conduit in a paraffinic froth treatment (PFT) process. The foulant comprises asphaltenes. The foulant collectors are purposed to reduce build-up in the vessel or conduit and/or to reduce downstream foulant carry-over in the process. The surface of the foulant collectors may have an average water contact angle of less than 90 degrees. Additionally, together with such foulant collectors, a fluorocarbon polymer may be used as a surface of a vessel or conduit in the PFT process, for reducing fouling.
US08636896B2
The invention relates to a method for treating a hydrocarbons charge comprising the following stages, in which: a) the charge is brought into contact with a solvent in order to obtain a deasphalted effluent having a content of asphaltenes below 3000 ppm by weight, b) the deasphalted effluent is cracked in the presence of hydrogen and a hydrocracking catalyst, in a bubbling-bed reactor, so as to convert at least 50 wt. % of the fraction of the deasphalted effluent boiling above 500° C. to compounds having a boiling point below 500° C., c) the effluent from stage b) is fractionated to recover gasolines, kerosene, gas oils and a first residue, and d) at least a portion of this first residue is cracked so as to obtain an effluent comprising gasolines, kerosene, gas oils and a second residue.
US08636893B2
Chlorine with a low bromine content is produced by electrolyzing brine to produce gaseous chlorine, alkali metal hydroxide and hydrogen, separating the gaseous chlorine from the electrolyte (anolyte in the case of the membrane process), directing electrolyte (anolyte in the case of the membrane process) to a primary dechlorination step using hydrochloric acid to remove gaseous chlorine therefrom, optionally directing depleted electrolyte (anolyte in the case of the membrane process) from the primary dechlorination step to a secondary dechlorination step using a reducing agent for chlorine and oxychlorine species, and recycling dechlorinated depleted electrolyte (anolyte in the case of the membrane process) to salt dissolvers to prepare brine for electrolysis. At least part of the gaseous chlorine generated in the primary dechlorination step is not combined with gaseous chlorine generated in the electrolysis step.
US08636889B2
A solid electrolyte producing system includes a supercapacitor desalination device comprising a power supply and a supercapacitor desalination unit. The supercapacitor desalination unit includes a pair of electrodes electrically coupled to the power supply and operable in a charging mode of operation and a discharging mode of operation. A feeding source is configured to provide a feed liquid to the supercapacitor desalination unit when the supercapacitor desalination unit is in the charging mode of operation. The feed liquid comprises at least one determined electrolyte. A crystallization device is providing for receiving a concentrated liquid from the supercapacitor desalination device in the discharging mode of operation, the concentrated liquid being a saturated liquid or supersaturated liquid of the at least one determined type of electrolyte. The at least one determined type of electrolyte precipitates in the crystallization device as solid electrolyte. The system further comprises a separation device for separating the solid electrolyte from the liquid of the crystallization device as a solid electrolyte product.
US08636884B2
Embodiments of the invention include analyte-responsive compositions and electrochemical analyte sensors having a sensing layer that includes an analyte-responsive enzyme and a cationic polymer. Also provided are systems and methods of making the sensors and using the electrochemical analyte sensors in analyte monitoring.
US08636878B2
This is a device and process to generate alternating current without an external source for cell-houses in electro-winning or electro-refining of copper or other products in which the electric source consists of a conventional rectifier-transformer group that supplies continuous electrical current to the cell-house, which is connected in parallel to a device characterized by having the capacity to extract an electrical current from the cell-house for a period of time and then return it in another period of time, whether periodically or semi-periodically and without changing the average value of the electrical current, supplied to the cell-house by the rectifier-transformer. This results in an electrical current in the cell-house that is the superimposition of a continuous and alternating current. This process is designed to overcome the barrier of electric potential produced by the presence of the pure continuous electric field in cell-houses through the electric agitation of an ion-rich electrolyte.
US08636873B2
A structure, for use in a processing chamber of a plasma processing apparatus in which a plasma process is performed on a target substrate, includes a base member at least having a first surface and a second surface; and a thermally sprayed insulating film covering the first surface. Further, the structure includes an insulating protection member covering the second surface and made of a material having a linear expansion coefficient different from that of the base member; and an insulating layer interposed between the thermally sprayed insulating film and the insulating protection member to prevent a contact therebetween. The thermally sprayed insulating film, the insulating protection member and the insulating layer constitute an insulating surface covering the first surface and the second surface.
US08636867B2
A method for producing an escape route marking and the apparatus for an airplane comprising a luminous layer that luminesces in the dark, and a profile having two profile elements that can be connected to each other, wherein in a first of the profile elements, the luminous layer is arranged in a recess extending in the longitudinal direction, and the second profile element is provided to be connected with a base, wherein the procedure comprises the following steps: production of the luminous layer from a mixture of a silicone material and from photoluminescent pigments, and introduction of the mixture in a liquid state into the recess of the first profile element, wherein the mixture cures in the seat by crosslinking with the walls in the profile.
US08636865B2
The invention relates to a method for producing a composite component reinforced by stiffening elements.Composite component is produced by the inside gluing of a monolithic component to a multiplicity of stiffening elements by means of an adhesive suitable for this particular application. Stiffening elements are formed with a fiber reinforced, amorphous thermoplastic material. Monolithic component of composite component consists of a fiber reinforced duroplastic material—for example a composite epoxy matrix—in which are embedded, for reinforcement, carbon fibers, basalt fibers, natural fibers, ceramic fibers, Aramide® fibers, Kevlar® fibers or any combination thereof.Monolithic component is glued to thermoplastic stiffening elements by an adhesive under the influence of pressure and temperature. Here a tolerance compensation is carried out essentially by stiffening elements, if necessary being plastically deformed, so that high dimensional stability is achieved. Composite components, which can be subject to high mechanical loads, are therefore provided, in particular, as spare or replacement parts for outer lining parts on aircraft.The invention also relates to a composite component produced by means of a method according to the invention.
US08636854B2
A method for coating a flat steel product manufactured from a high strength steel with a metallic coating, wherein the flat steel product is initially subjected to a heat treatment, in order then, in the heated state, to be hot-dip galvanized with the metallic coating in a melting bath containing overall at least 85% zinc and/or aluminum. The heat treatment includes heating the steel product in a reducing atmosphere, followed by converting a surface of the flat product to an iron oxide layer by a heat treatment lasting 1 to 10 secs in an oxidizing atmosphere, followed by annealing in a reducing atmosphere over a period of time which is longer than the duration of the formation of the iron oxide layer such that the iron oxide layer is reduced at least on its surface to pure iron, followed by cooling the product to a melting bath temperature.
US08636850B2
Some demonstrative embodiments of the invention include an apparatus and a method for removing the support structures from three-dimensional objects, in which the support removal is carried out using techniques that decrease the duration of the support removal process and increase the quality of the final three-dimensional objects. This method also ensures the safe removal of the support structures without damage to the three-dimensional object.
US08636842B2
Disclosed is a method of manufacturing an artificial stone, and the method includes forming an artificial-stone paste which comprises 20-20 parts by weight of silica stone, metakaolim or silica fume, 200-300 parts by weight of quartz chips, 30-36 parts by weight if water, 1.5-3 part by weight of water-reducing agent and 0.2-3 parts by weight of pigment with response to 100 parts by weight of white cement; injecting the artificial-stone paste in a mold; primarily vacuum-molding the artificial-stone paste injected in the mold; secondarily vibration-molding the primarily molded artificial-stone paste; primarily curing the secondarily molded artificial-stone paste; secondarily curing the primarily cured artificial-stone paste, which induces a hydrothermal reaction and thus causes a pozzolanic reaction; releasing the secondarily cured artificial-stone paste from the mold; and surface-machining the released artificial-stone paste.
US08636829B2
The invention provides gas purification systems for the recovery and liquefaction of low boiling point organic and inorganic gases, such as methane, propane, CO2, NH3, and chlorofluorocarbons. Many such gases are in the effluent gas of industrial processes and the invention can increase the sustainability and economics of such industrial processes. In a preferred system of the invention, low boiling point gases are adsorbed with a heated activated carbon fiber material maintained at an adsorption temperature during an adsorption cycle. During a low boiling point desorption cycle the activated carbon fiber is heated to a desorption temperature to create a desorption gas stream with concentrated low boiling point gases. The desorption gas stream is actively compressed and/or cooled to condense and liquefy the low boiling point gases, which can then be collected, stored, re-used, sold, etc. Particular systems of the invention include an active condensation loop that actively cools and/or compresses a desorption gas stream from said vessel to liquefy low boiling point gases.
US08636821B2
A ceramic honeycomb structure having a large number of flow paths partitioned by porous cell walls, the cell walls meeting the conditions; (a) the cell walls having porosity of 55-80%, (b) the cell walls having a median pore diameter D50 (measured by mercury porosimetry) of 5-27 μm, (c) pores open on cell wall surfaces having an opening area ratio of 20% or more, (d) pores open on cell wall surfaces having a median opening diameter d50 (determined from equivalent circle diameters on an area basis) of 10-45 μm, (e) the density of pores open on cell wall surfaces having equivalent circle diameters of 10 μm or more and less than 40 μm being 350/mm2 or more, (f) the maximum inclination of a curve of a cumulative pore volume relative to a pore diameter (determined from a pore distribution measured by mercury porosimetry) being 1.6 or more, and (g) a ratio D50/d50 of the median pore diameter D50 to the median opening diameter d50 being 0.65 or less.
US08636816B1
A composite wood product adapted for burning includes a compacted mixture of lignosulfonate, wood particles, and ground corn. A method of manufacturing the composite wood product includes: (i) providing and mixing the lignosulfonate, the wood particles, and the ground corn to form a mixture having a moisture content from about 6 wt. % to about 18 wt. %; compacting the mixture at high pressure; and drying the mixture to obtain an optimum moisture level for burning. The composite wood product may be provided in a kit that includes log-shaped pieces and starter pieces.
US08636806B2
A biologic diarthrodial joint includes an artificial subchondral bone shaped in the form of a joint replacement member and formed of an artificial fiber material. The artificial fiber material includes synthetic fibers formed in a fibrous network with the synthetic fibers arranged in multiple orientations. The artificial subchondral bone includes a polymer receiving component. An artificial cartilage polymer is cooperable with the artificial subchondral bone and engages the polymer receiving component. The artificial cartilage polymer has physical properties similar to that of native articular cartilage.
US08636790B2
A vascular stent to be implanted in a vessel of a living body to scaffold the vessel from inside is provided. The stent includes a tubular body formed by assembling a plurality of tubular-body forming elements constituting a part of a tubular body. The tubular-body forming elements are formed by bending a strand made of a biodegradable polymer such that legs as linear parts and bend parts alternate in sequence, to form a single flow channel from one end to the other end. The plurality of tubular-body forming elements constitute the tubular body by connecting and unifying two connecting members by melt welding, each of the connecting members being attached to adjacent portions of the plurality of tubular-body forming elements.
US08636789B2
A stent graft defining a main lumen bounded by a wall of graft material is disclosed. The stent graft has a valve portion between proximal and distal portions. The valve portion is formed by a wall portion having a part-circumferential double layer portion comprising an inner underlap portion and an outer overlap portion, the double layer portion forming a passageway parallel to the main lumen. The passageway has an entrance mouth and an exit mouth. The passageway has an open condition where the underlap and overlap portions are spaced apart to form a vent lumen. The wall portion is broken by a narrow cut. The cut is openable by relative radial movement between its edges. This allows re-perfusion of an aneurism and perfusion of blood from within the lumen out towards blood vessels such as intercostals and can assist in minimizing the chance of paraplegia.
US08636786B2
An eye compress kit includes a thermally adjustable gel pack, a strap and at least one moistened, disposable fibrous non-woven fabric sheet. The thermally adjustable gel pack is configured to be applied against an eye region of a user's body. The gel pack includes a casing that defines a chamber holding a thermally activatable gelatinous substance. The strap is configured to secure the gel pack against the user's eye region and to exert compressive forces to the gel pack. The at least one moistened, disposable fibrous non-woven fabric sheet is adapted to be positioned between the gel pack and the user's eye region wherein the fabric sheet is removable from the outer surface of the gel pack.
US08636784B2
An attachment device with a radially expandable section is disclosed. The attachment device can have helical threads, for example, to facilitate screwing the attachment device into a bone. Methods of using the same are also disclosed. The attachment device can be positioned to radially expand the expandable section in cancellous bone substantially surrounded by cortical bone.
US08636781B2
A receiving part for receiving a rod for coupling the rod to a bone anchoring element includes a receiving part body including a rod receiving portion with a channel for receiving a rod, and a head receiving portion for accommodating a head of a bone anchoring element, the head receiving portion having an open end and being flexible so as to allow introduction and clamping of the head, the head receiving portion having an exterior surface with a tapered portion; and a locking ring around the head receiving portion and including an interior surface with a curved portion configured to engage the tapered portion of the exterior surface of the head receiving portion to clamp the head.
US08636777B2
A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper capture structure, a head and an open, compressible retainer collar. The capture structure and retainer collar are both threaded for rotatable attachment within a cavity of the head. The head has a U-shaped cradle defining a channel for receiving a spinal fixation rod. The head channel communicates with the cavity and further with a restrictive opening that allows for loading the capture structure into the head but prevents passage of the attached retainer collar out of the head. The open retainer collar may be bottom- or top-loaded by compressing open ends of the ring towards each other, the collar springing back into a rounded shape after insertion in the head. The open collar has an external substantially spherical surface that mates with an internal surface of the head, providing a ball joint, enabling the head to be disposed at an angle relative to the shank body. The threaded capture structure includes a tool engagement formation and gripping surfaces for non-slip engagement by a tool for driving the shank body into bone.
US08636770B2
A bone anchoring device including a clamping device and a flexible band configured to be secured a vertebra. The clamping device includes a base member and an upper member configured to be secured together with a fastener. The flexible band is configured to be passed around a bone portion and through a passage of the base member to position the flexible band between a clamping surface of the base member and a clamping surface of the upper member. The flexible band is tensioned to urge the clamping device against the bone portion and then clamped between the clamping surfaces of the base member and the upper member. A stabilization member of a vertebral stabilization construct may be secured to the vertebra with the bone anchoring device without invasively altering or impairing the structural integrity of the vertebra.
US08636768B2
A pacifier having a nipple, which can be fastened to the pacifier guard with a stem-shaped end, wherein on the pacifier guard a fastening part that is or can be connected to the pacifier is provided on a side provided for placing the lips thereon such that the pacifier is connected to the pacifier guard when the fastening part is fastened to the pacifier guard.
US08636756B2
The tissue approximating structures for the anastomosis devices of the invention preferably include two sets of approximating structures or tines spaced from each other along the length of a catheter body that can be extended and retracted from the catheter body. Each of the sets of tissue approximating structures is preferably sequentially deployable in such a way that the surgeon can activate a first set of tines to engage a first tissue structure, verify that an adjacent second tissue structure is properly positioned relative to the first tissue structure, then activate a second set of tines to engage that adjacent second tissue structure. Each of the sets of tines is preferably controlled by a single actuation mechanism that is attached to the anastomosis device and is positioned outside the patient's body.
US08636745B2
An orthopedic drill guide and surgical pin positioning device includes a primary surgical pin for insertion into a fractured bone and a longitudinal drum supported on said primary surgical pin. A set screw is also provided in said longitudinal drum for preventing the longitudinal drum from rotation about the primary surgical pin. A transverse drum is also provided and is rotatably disposed in the longitudinal drum as is a set screw for fixing the position of the transverse drum with respect to the longitudinal drum. A secondary pin extends through the transverse drum and is fixed in a second position on the hard tissue of the fractured bone. Finally, a pair of aligned openings extends through the transverse drum for guiding a drill bit and locating a surgical pin within the broken bone.
US08636742B2
Methods and devices are provided for reducing a spinal fixation element into a spinal implant element. In one exemplary embodiment, a spinal rod reduction device is provided for reducing a spinal fixation element into a spinal implant element. The spinal rod reduction device can include a fastener engaging member for engaging at least a portion a spinal implant element, a reduction member for engaging at least a portion of a spinal fixation element, and a handle assembly mated to the reduction member. The handle assembly can be designed in such a way that actuation of the handle assembly causes movement of the reduction member relative to the fastener engaging member and the movement of the reduction member reduces the spinal fixation element into the spinal implant element. Two different styles of spinal rod reduction devices are discussed in detail. Various techniques are also provided for reducing a spinal fixation element into a spinal implant element.
US08636740B2
A spinal stabilization system includes an implant and instrumentation for stabilizing the spine. In one embodiment, the system includes a plate having a side rail and a channel extending adjacent the side rail. A pedicle screw assembly is positioned in the channel in releasable engagement with the side rail. The pedicle screw assembly includes a polyaxial screw seated in a lower housing having a lower locking flange. An upper housing having an upper locking flange secures the plate to the lower housing. The side rail of the plate is releasably engaged between the upper locking flange and the lower locking flange. The upper and lower housings include on-board locking mechanisms for fixing components in the screw assembly. The screw assembly and plate are inserted and oriented by remote manipulation. Minimally invasive techniques for inserting the implant are performed with the instrumentation, and cause minimal disturbance to surrounding tissue.
US08636728B2
A balloon elongation apparatus includes an elongated hypotube with a distal end having a reduced inner diameter portion that is configured to radially expand when a mandrel is advanced through a lumen of the hypotube towards the reduced inner diameter portion. A medical kit includes a catheter having a distally-located balloon and the elongation apparatus disposed within a guide wire tube of the catheter. In use, the balloon is elongated following a procedure in order to facilitate retracting the balloon into a sheath. The balloon is elongated by first advancing the mandrel relative to the hypotube so that the hypotube radially expands and firmly engages an inner surface of the guide wire tube and then advancing the mandrel, hypotube, and distal end of the guide wire tube relative to the catheter body.
US08636715B2
Catheter devices having low profile shafts and laterally deployable members (e.g., cannulas, needles, etc.) that may be extended or advanced laterally from the catheter shaft. Also disclosed are methods for bypassing a vascular obstruction (e.g., a chronic total occlusion or other full or partial obstruction) wherein a guidewire is entrapped in a subintimal space adjacent to the obstruction. A catheter of the foregoing character is advanced over the entrapped guidewire and into the subintimal space. The laterally deployable member is then advanced or extended from the subintimal space back into the true lumen of the blood vessel distal to the obstruction. A second guidewire is then advanced through or along the laterally deployable member. The catheter and first guidewire are then removed and one or more working device(s) (balloons, atherectomy devices, setnts, etc.) is/are advanced over the second guidewire and used to establish a subintimal bypass channel through which blood may flow around the obstruction.
US08636711B2
Stabilized glucagon solutions, methods of storing and using the stabilized glucagon solutions, and drug delivery devices containing the stabilized glucagon solutions. In some embodiments, the glucagon solutions may be alkaline, such as with a pH of at least about 9. The glucagon solutions may be resistant to aggregation of glucagon when the solutions are stored for a prolonged period, such as at least about three days, at room temperature and/or physiological temperature.
US08636709B2
The invention relates to the treatment of wounds. In particular, the invention relates to systems, devices, and methods enabling pulse lavage irrigation of wounds in a non-controlled setting while providing containment of contaminated irrigation fluid, thereby preventing exposure of individuals and surfaces in proximity to the patient to infectious materials.
US08636706B2
Transfer sets are disclosed in the present patent. The transfer set provides a connection between a source of peritoneal dialysis fluid and a patient for whom peritoneal dialysis has been prescribed. The transfer sets disclosed herein are smaller and provide a more compact and convenient device by which a dialysis patient controls the flow of dialysis fluid to and from the peritoneum of the patient. The devices are more compact and convenient because they include more convenient mechanisms for starting and stopping flow of the dialysis fluid. It is also easy to determine whether the mechanism is in a closed or open configuration by simply looking at the mechanism.
US08636669B2
A cardiac rhythm management system provides for ambulatory monitoring of hemodynamic performance based on quantitative measurements of heart sound related parameters for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Monitoring of such heart sound related parameters allows the cardiac rhythm management system to determine a need for delivering a therapy and/or therapy parameter adjustments based on conditions of a heart. This monitoring also allows a physician to observe or assess the hemodynamic performance for diagnosing and making therapeutic decisions. Because the conditions of the heart may fluctuate and may deteriorate significantly between physician visits, the ambulatory monitoring, performed on a continuous or periodic basis, ensures a prompt response by the cardiac rhythm management system that may save a life, prevent hospitalization, or prevent further deterioration of the heart.
US08636668B2
Provided is a measuring apparatus that includes: a semiconductor laser device that emits a laser light beam to an object to be measured; a driving unit that provides a driving signal for modulation drive of the semiconductor laser device; a first detection unit that detects a first electrical signal that corresponds to the intensity of the laser light beam modulated due to the self-coupling effect, in a first half-cycle of the driving signal; a second detection unit that detects a second electrical signal that corresponds to the intensity of a second laser light beam modulated due to the self-coupling effect, in a second half-cycle of the driving signal being in an opposite phase of the first half-cycle; a calculation unit that calculates a difference between the first and second electrical signals; and a measuring unit that measures a change in the state of the object based on the calculated difference.
US08636666B2
Rendering quality parameter values are automatically set or adjusted as a function of acquisition ultrasound parameter values. The rendering quality is automatically selected based on the acquisition quality, such as providing for a higher quality or quality rendering for slower acquisitions. More than two rendering states are provided for a respective, more than two different quality settings.
US08636662B2
Methods and systems for displaying system parameter information are provided. One method includes determining a value for a system parameter using the ultrasound system and comparing the determined value to a defined value for a system processing guideline using a processor of the ultrasound system. The method further includes providing system parameter confirmation information based on the comparing when the determined value is not within the defined value.
US08636661B2
An embeddable module for measuring a blood glucose level may be embedded in an external host and may comprise a host interface, a microcontroller, an ASIC, a temperature measuring element, and a measurement strip port. The host interface may permit electrical communication between the host and the microcontroller. The microcontroller and ASIC may communicate with each other and may work together to measure the blood glucose level of a blood sample. The measurement strip port may receive a removable measurement strip having the blood sample. The ASIC may communicate with the measurement strip port such that the ASIC may receive signals from the measurement strip port related to the blood glucose level of the blood sample. The temperature measuring element may be in electrical communication with the microcontroller and may measure the temperature of the module and transmit signals to the microcontroller related to the temperature of the module.
US08636659B2
A multifunctional invasive cardiovascular diagnostic measurement host is disclosed that interfaces a variety of sensor devices, such as guide wire-mounted pressure sensors, flow sensors, temperature sensors, etc, and provides a multi-mode graphical user interface providing a plurality of displays in accordance with the various types of sensors and measurements rendered by the sensors.
US08636654B2
Tissue retraction devices and methods include a tissue retractor with a radiolucent portion to permit imaging through the radiolucent portion with X-ray, fluoroscopic or other suitable imaging system. The tissue retractor also includes one or more radio-opaque elements that define at least a portion of a perimeter of the radiolucent portion to provide an indication of the retractor location in the patient via the imaging system.
US08636647B2
Described herein are delivery devices and methods of using the devices for delivering an ocular implant into a suprachoroidal space without use of a goniolens. The delivery device includes a handle including a channel extending from a proximal end of the handle to a distal end of the handle, an applier coupled to the handle, the applier including a blunt distal tip and an elongate, flexible wire insertable through a fluid channel of an ocular implant, and a fiber optic image bundle reversibly inserted through the channel such that the fiber optic image bundle extends to a region proximal to the blunt distal tip of the applier.
US08636646B2
A penile prosthetic assembly includes a penile implant containing a dilatant liquid and a reservoir connectable with the penile implant. Fluid transferred from the reservoir into the penile implant imposes a shear on the dilatant liquid to increase viscosity in the dilatant liquid and harden the penile implant.
US08636644B2
An incontinence treatment device includes a urethral support and first and second connectors. The urethral support extends between a first end and a second end and has porosity that is configured to allow tissue in-growth through the urethral support. The first connector is attached to the first end of the urethral support and the second connector is attached to the second end of the urethral support. At least one of the first connector and the second connector is a cross-linked polymer connector having a glass transition temperature between 40-70 degrees Celsius. The cross-linked polymer connector has an initial length that is elongated to an implant length that is greater than the initial length. Means for heating the cross-linked polymer connector from an extracorporeal location through intact skin is provided, thereby shortening the cross-linked polymer connector.
US08636635B2
An applicator for delivering brachytherapy includes elongate members movable between collapsed and expanded configurations for delivering brachytherapy within a lumpectomy cavity, a vaginal cavity, or other target region. The elongate members may be expandable into a symmetrical or asymmetrical expanded configuration, e.g., into a generally spherical, pear-shaped, or planar configuration. A system for delivering brachytherapy includes the applicator and an access device for lining and/or dilating a body cavity and/or for receiving the applicator therein. The access device is advanced into a body cavity, an expandable member on the access device is inflated, the applicator is advanced into the access device, and the elongate members are expanded to deliver radiation to the target region. Alternatively, the access device carries an expandable device into the target region, the expandable device is removed after dilating the target region, and the applicator is introduced through the access device to deliver radiation.
US08636632B2
The sleeve roll according to the present invention has the metallic sleeve 5 fitted over the rubber roll 4, covering the surface of the shaft core part 2, and can be efficiently heated or cooled by having the passage P formed between the metallic roll inner tube 2a and the metallic roll outer tube 2b for the thermal medium to flow through. It also has the heat conductive material 6 mixed into the rubber roll 4, so that it has excellent heat conductivity and the surface of the sleeve can be quickly and efficiently heated or cooled, thus preventing the material to be formed from sticking to the roll.
US08636627B2
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is the most commonly injured knee ligament in sports-related activities, especially in pivoting sports. Considering that the knee is free to flex/extend but has much more limited motions about the off-axes (tibial rotation and valgus/varus), ACL injuries are often associated with excessive off-axis loadings. A pivoting/sliding mechanism combined with sagittal plane movement/exercise is described as a diagnostic tool to evaluate off-axis neuromechanical and anatomical risk factors of noncontact ACL injuries. The pivoting/sliding mechanism is also described as an intervention tool for off-axis training, possibly based on the diagnosis, to reduce the incidence of ACL injuries. Training outcome can also be evaluated using the pivoting/sliding mechanism. In general, the pivoting/sliding mechanism can be used with many sagittal plane exercise machines and used to improve off-axis control of the lower limbs and reduce lower limb injuries.
US08636602B2
A bowling lane with a mural image is disclosed. In one embodiment, a plurality of bowling lane panels are provided, wherein each bowling lane panel depicts a different portion of a mural image. The plurality of bowling lane panels are assembled and secured onto a surface such that the assembly of the plurality of bowling lane panels forms the mural image. In another embodiment, a bowling center is provided with at least two bowling lanes. Each bowling lane depicts a mural image, and the mural images on the various bowling lanes form a composite multi-lane mural image.
US08636592B2
Provided are technologies for the distribution of signals corresponding to players in a multi-player game situation to be distributed of appropriate video displays. Frames of a video signal are mapped to corresponding game controllers and the game controllers are mapped to display devices. Frames are then routed to an appropriate video display on a corresponding display device.
US08636591B1
One aspect of the disclosure relates to facilitating virtual item rewards for implementation in a virtual space based on a game of chance in an online game. A virtual wheel with multiple game outcomes may be spun and/or any other action may be taken. One of multiple virtual outcomes corresponding to different game outcomes may be selected and/or displayed. There may be various visual mechanisms for selecting and/or presenting one outcome from multiple possible game outcomes.
US08636583B2
An embodiment of a gaming device includes a game having at least three choices, wherein each of the choices either trumps or is trumped by one of the other choices, and a processor programmed to determine if an outcome enhancing condition is satisfied, enable a player to elect to enhance an outcome if an outcome enhancing condition is satisfied, enable the player to select one of said choices, select one of said choices, determine an outcome based on a comparison of the player's choice with the processor's choice, provide a win outcome if the player elected to enhance an outcome and the comparison of the player's choice with the processor's choice results in a draw determination, provide a draw outcome if the player elected to enhance an outcome and the comparison of the player's choice with the processor's choice results in a lose determination.
US08636574B2
A method provides a player tracking system and system gaming apparatus for playing non-base games by funding the credit side of a gaming cycle. The system further includes at least one gaming device having a base game. The player tracking system and system gaming apparatus includes a player tracking user interface. The player tracking user interface provides a player with an opportunity to select and play a non-base game that may be promotional-funded or player-funded.
US08636573B2
One embodiment of the present invention comprises a method including steps of populating a primary set of card positions with a first set of initial cards, determining at least one discarded card from the first set of initial cards, replacing the at least one discarded card from the first set of initial cards with replacement cards to form a final set of cards, and determining whether to include the at least one discarded card in at least one secondary set of card positions. If the at least one discarded card is to be included in the at least one secondary set of card positions, the method further provides for populating the at least one secondary set of card positions with the at least one discarded card. Some embodiments of the present invention also provide for determining a payout based on at least the final set of cards.
US08636572B2
The invention provides displaying, in a lane, a section of repeatable inputs in a sub-lane of the lane. Cue data is loaded from a data file, which includes duration data and a plurality of cues to be displayed in the sub-lane. Then, the plurality of cues and a section indicator are displayed in the sub-lane, with the section indicator based on the duration data and indicating that the plurality of cues are repeatable inputs. Then, a timer is started that is independent of a timing window of any cue of the plurality of cues. Then, it is determined if an input is received for the sub-lane before the timer reaches a timing threshold. If it is, the timer is restarted and the plurality of cues is maintained as repeatable inputs. If it is not, the section indicator is modified to indicate that the plurality of cues are not repeatable inputs.
US08636563B2
In a rotating grinding- or cutting tool, in particular a grinding wheel or grinding roller, on one body, a coating of abrasive material, e.g. cubic boron nitride (CBN) or diamond is applied. The body (2, 12, 22, 32, 42) has two side walls (2a, 12a, 22a, 32a, 42a; 2a, 12a, 22a, 32a, 42a) which are connected to each other on their peripheral region, with the side walls being constructed with fiber-reinforced composite, in particular carbon fiber-, glass fiber- or synthetic fiber-reinforced composite.
US08636556B2
Apparatus and methods for resizing COTS AMLCDs or other electronic displays, as well as resized displays made using these apparatus and methods, are provided. The electronic display includes a front plate, a back plate, a perimeter seal spacing the front and back plates apart, and image-generating medium contained in an area between the front and back plates. A target portion of the display may be identified and separated from an excess portion of the display, e.g., by cutting and breaking the plates of the display, thereby creating an exposed edge along the target portion. The plates of the target portion are pressed towards one another, e.g., to stabilize or compress the target portion. An adhesive is applied to the exposed edge, and the pressure is released to draw the adhesive between the plates along the exposed edge.
US08636553B1
An assembly (10) is provided for mounting a hydrofoil, trolling plate or trolling motor (or other accessory) on the anti-ventilation plate (14) of a sterndrive or outboard motor (16) without the need to modify the plate or motor. The assembly (10) has lower and upper elements (20, 22) which are secured about the plate (14) by bolts (34). The upper element (22) has a bolt pattern (40) to mount the hydrofoil or other device. A catch (60, 88, 88a, 88b, 88c, 88d) mounted on the lower element (20) can be engaged in the trim tab or anode recess. Grip devices (50) can be mounted on the lower element (20) that are adjusted to grip the edges of the plate (14).
US08636549B2
The present invention relates generally to multi-trace electrical connectors for harsh environments. More particularly, the present invention relates to bayonet rotary electrical connectors which maintain electrical connection dynamically, and which may have replaceable connector components. This type of connector is used, for example, in drilling operations where the connector must be rotated, for example during assembly, disassembly, or operation of bottom hole equipment or sensor or communications packages, and where the electrical connection may be maintained.
US08636543B2
A footprint of an electronic assembly formed from conductive pads on a surface of a printed circuit board. One or more vias may connect each pad to a conductive structure within the printed circuit board. The footprint may be such that the vias for the pads are aligned along columns, leaving wide routing channels between the columns. The pads may have different shapes. For example, some of the pads may each have two solder attachment regions that are electrically connected to a ground plane, while other pads may each have one solder attachment region that is electrically connected to a signal trace. The solder attachment regions may be arranged in such a pattern that they align with respective contact tails of a connector assembly. A signal path may be formed between a solder attachment region and a corresponding contact tail through a solder ball attached to the contact tail.
US08636542B2
Coaxial connector comprising a signal contact member having a connecting terminal portion and a contacting terminal portion, a grounding contact member having an annular engaging portion for engaging with an outer contact member of a mating coaxial connector and a shell portion extending from the annular engaging portion to be connected with an outer conductor of a coaxial cable, and a housing for supporting the signal contact member and the grounding contact member. The connecting terminal portion of the signal contact member is positioned at the outside of the annular engaging portion of the grounding contact member to be connected with a core conductor of the coaxial cable and the contacting terminal portion of the signal contact member is positioned at the inside of the annular engaging portion of the grounding contact member for coming into contact with a central contact member of the mating coaxial connector.
US08636540B2
An electrical connector (100) comprising a housing (200) defining a front face and a first mating cavity recessed rearward from the front face for receiving a modular plug, an electronic module (400) mounted to the housing, a horizontal PCB (500) mounted under the electronic module, and an outer shell (700) shielding the electronic module and the housing. The electronic module has a vertical PCB(420) which includes a ground trace (421) joined to a conductor (427) that extends through a plated hole in the vertical PCB and that is connected to a conductive pin (722) of the outer shell through a conductive trace (56) of the horizontal PCB (500).
US08636535B1
An electrical connector for electrically connecting a central processing unit (CPU) to a printed circuit board (PCB) includes a base having a first opening and a plurality of passageways with a plurality of contacts therein. A base shield is assembled on the first opening of the base. A cover is mounted upon the base and has a second opening corresponding to the first opening of the base and a plurality of through holes corresponding to the passageways. A cover shield is assembled on the second opening of the cover for contacting with the CPU and the base shield. An actuator driving the cover with the cover shield slides along the base with the base shield in a front-to-back direction.
US08636532B2
In a gas sensor, when an arithmetical mean roughness Ra of an inner periphery of a metal tube 95 is 1 μm or less and end portions 93 and 94 of U-springs 92 are formed as curved contact portions, the end portions 93 and 94 of the U-springs 92 can slide smoothly along the inner periphery of the metal tube 95. Therefore, when vibration is applied to the gas sensor, the U-springs 92 can be prevented from being caught in the inner periphery of the metal tube 95, and the vibration can be absorbed by an elastic function of the U-springs 92. Even if the gas sensor vibrates, defective contact between a sensor element 20 and contact fittings 71 and wear and cracks in the sensor element 20 are less likely to occur. That is, the gas sensor resistant to vibration can be obtained.
US08636528B2
A memory module connector includes a dynamically-assisted latch that facilitates connecting and releasing a memory module. The latch includes a lever pivotably coupled to the connector for urging the memory module into and out of a fully seated position within the connector. The lever provides a mechanical advantage for lowering and raising the memory module. A latch assist member urges the latch into engagement with the memory module in response to an insertion of the memory module, and dynamically positions the lever in response to movement of the memory module within the connector.
US08636527B2
An electrical connection assembly includes a female element having at least one electrical contact and a male element to be inserted in the female element and which includes a plug and a sleeve that surrounds and is movable relative to the plug and at least one electrical contact is carried by the plug and is electrically engageable to the electrical contact of the female element. An external surface of the sleeve has at least two stages with diameters which are smaller in a direction toward a free end of the male element and the female element has a body with an internal surface having at least two stages with diameters which are larger in a direction toward a mouth of the female element and such that the at least two stages of the external and internal surfaces seat with one another when the male element is inserted into the female element.
US08636526B2
Circuits, methods, and apparatus that provide connector receptacles having a smaller size. One example provides this smaller size by decreasing the depth of the connector receptacle. Contacts in the connector receptacle may be protected from damage due to improper insertion of a second electronic device or connection to a second electronic device. This protection may be achieved in various ways. In some examples, one or more components or one or more contacts may be used to block the improper insertion of a second electronic device or connection to a second electronic device. In other examples, one or more contacts may avoid damage by being located outside of an insertion path until a second electronic device or connection to a second electronic device is inserted. In other examples, instead of blocking or avoiding an improper insertion, the contacts may avoid damage by bending out of the way.
US08636525B2
According to embodiments of the disclosure there is provided an apparatus including a user input device; and a mechanism configured to enable the user input device to be moved between a first position and a second position wherein when the user input device is in the first position a socket is accessible by a user of the apparatus and when the user input device is in the second position the socket is not accessible by the user of the apparatus.
US08636519B2
Apparatus, including: a mockup probe, having a distal end and a proximal end adapted to be held by a human operator. The apparatus further includes a mockup patient, simulating an actual patient, the mockup patient having an aperture allowing penetration of the distal end of the mockup probe into the mockup patient. The apparatus includes a force generator, coupled to the mockup probe so as to apply a force to the proximal end that can be felt by the human operator, and a system controller. The controller is configured to: track a location of the distal end during the penetration thereof into the mockup patient, access an indication of a value of contractility of a region of an organ of the actual patient corresponding to the location, and activate the force generator so that the force applied to the proximal end corresponds to the indication.
US08636513B2
Systems and methods produce a physical base for receiving physical tooth models by receiving position information for the physical tooth models on the physical base and machining first features on a base plate in accordance with the position information to produce the physical base, wherein the first features are configured to receive the physical tooth models.
US08636506B2
An improved vibrating dental plate that allows differential vibration of one or more teeth to assist in orthodontic remodeling is provided.
US08636499B2
The equipment consists of a mould (1) with external heating elements (3) and with asymmetric heads (4) at the ends thereof, allowing insertion of the corresponding tubular profile or plastic tube (6) inside the already hot mould (1) at the same temperature as the actual mould (1) in order to prevent any heat exchange. The mould (1) is mounted on a support (2) that can tilt and rotate, while the heads (4) include a vacuum take-off orifice (5), fastening means (7) for the plastic tube (6), which, once inserted into the mould (1) rests on the lower generatrix of the latter, and inlet (8) and outlet (9) means for fluids for expanding the plastic tube (6) and for cooling same, the mould (1) incorporating, on the side, an inlet orifice for a lubricating fluid that facilitates removal of the plastic tube (1) once the latter has been shaped. The tube (6) expands owing to the introduction of the expander fluid through the inlet (8).
US08636496B2
Systems and methods for fabricating three-dimensional objects. The system includes an optical imaging system providing a light source; a photosensitive medium adapted to change states upon exposure to a portion of the light source from the optical imaging system; a control system for controlling movement of the optical imaging system, wherein the optical imaging system moves continuously above the photosensitive medium. The method includes moving a maskless optical imaging system providing the light beam in a continuous sequence; presenting the light beam on a portion of the photosensitive medium; lowering a plate upon which the photosensitive medium resides; and applying a new layer of the photosensitive medium.
US08636492B2
The methods and apparatuses for granulating thermoplastic material emerging from nozzles in a perforated plate are provided. The apparatus can have a motor-driven cutter arrangement having at least one blade located opposite the perforated plate. The at least one blade can pass over the nozzles in the perforated plate and cuts pellets of the emerging thermoplastic material.
US08636491B2
The tire vulcanizer is featured by including a slide back mechanism configured such that the upper metal mold separated and lifted from the lower metal mold installed to be fixed to a base is moved by an operation of a movable carriage so as to reciprocate between a vulcanization position at which the upper metal mold is pressed toward the lower metal mold, and a waiting position at which the green tire can be carried in the lower metal mold and at which the cured tire can be carried out from the lower metal mold, and is featured in that the upper metal mold is attached below, via a squeezing cylinder mechanism, to a beam integrated with a tie rod which is vertically moved by an operation of a lifting/lowering cylinder along a guide hole provided in the movable carriage.
US08636489B2
An apparatus for the shaping of plastics-material containers with a blow mold, wherein the blow mold has at least one first and one second blow-mold part, may include at least one first and one second carrier element for holding the blow-mold parts. The carrier elements are movable relative to one another at least in one plane, in order to be transferred at least from a closed configuration into an opened configuration. In this case the carrier elements each have a receiving area for receiving one blow-mold part in each case, wherein the blow-mold parts in the closed configuration form at least one cavity for the expansion of the containers. The blow-mold parts may be capable of being coupled in a magnetic and releasable manner to each other and/or at least one of the blow-mold parts is capable of being coupled in a magnetic and releasable manner to at least one carrier element.
US08636482B2
A submersible turbine pump (STP) comprising a manifold, a yoke assembly including a yoke sleeve integrally connected to the manifold, and a packer removably secured to the manifold is provided. The manifold includes an electrical cavity that receives electrical wiring from an external source. The yoke sleeve has a hollow interior and is integrally connected to manifold, and a first end of the yoke sleeve is within the electrical cavity. The packer includes a chamber having a yoke sleeve inlet port and an electrical conduit inlet port. The yoke sleeve inlet port receives a second end of the yoke sleeve extending from the manifold, and the electrical conduit inlet port receives an electrical conduit extending from a pump within an underground storage tank. The electrical wiring passes from the electrical cavity to the chamber through the yoke sleeve and then to the pump through the electrical conduit.
US08636463B2
Cooling channels through the interior of a machine component that include: a first set of cooling channels, the first set of cooling channels including a plurality of parallel channels that reside in a first plane; a second set of cooling channels, the second set of cooling channels including a plurality of parallel channels that reside in a second plane. Along a longitudinal axis, the cooling channels of the first and second set of cooling channels may include an alternating diverging-converging configuration, the alternating diverging-converging configuration creating a series of broader chamber sections connected by a series of narrower throat sections. The first set of cooling channels and the second set of cooling channels may be configured such that, when viewed from the side, a crisscrossing pattern with a plurality of intersections is formed. The first plane resides in spaced relation to the second plane, with the first plane being offset from the second plane such that a plurality of the chamber sections of the first set of cooling channels connect to a plurality of the chamber sections of the second set of cooling channels.
US08636457B2
A two-way fastener includes a first member configured to be attached to a first workpiece via a tool selected from the group consisting of: a pair of pliers, a screwdriver, a nutdriver and a hammer; and a second member configured to be attached to a second workpiece such that the second workpiece comes together with the first workpiece and at least substantially hides the entire two-way fastener, the second member extending in an opposite direction as the first member.
US08636456B2
A building structure including a first building member and a second building member may be connected by fasteners, each fastener having a head, a tapered lead portion having an angle from 30 to 60° of at least HRC 50 hardness adapted to start into a pilot hole, a thread-forming portion of at least HRC 50 hardness adapted to thread the fastener into at least the second steel building member, and a threaded portion having a through hardness from about HRB 70 to HRC 40, such that the fastener is capable of providing a ratio of failure torque to thread-forming torque of at least 3.0 and a ratio of failure torque to drive torque greater than 10 when the second steel building member has a thickness of about 0.25 inch and the pilot hole has at least one diameter within nominal diameter from 80 to 98% of major diameter.
US08636455B2
A fastener assembly is installable in an opening of a workpiece and includes an outer member and a fastener. The fastener is movable through a passageway of the outer member. The fastener includes a mandrel and a stem. The mandrel is dimensioned to radially expand the outer member. The stem has an expansion portion and a propping portion. The expansion portion radially expands the outer member after the outer member has been expanded by the mandrel. The propping portion keeps the expanded outer member in an installed expanded configuration. The outer member and fastener are installed in a single operation to reduce installation time.
US08636450B2
In a tie down system and method for securing a vehicle tire to a wire grate, a slotted overlay panel rest on top of the wire grate. A clevis assembly having one end of a tire trap assembly attached thereto is provided along with the winch assembly having a winch for receiving an opposite end of the tire strap assembly. Each of the clevis assembly and winch assembly have a T hook with a T portion which is insertable through a respective slot of the overlay panel.
US08636438B2
The invention relates to a device for fastening at least one component of an exhaust system to at least one member of a motor vehicle, including a component leg that is designed for rigid fastening to the at least one component of the exhaust system and one member leg that is designed for rigid fastening to the at least one member of the motor vehicle. A coupling body with or made of an elastomer is provided, the coupling body being connected on the one hand fixedly to the component leg and on the other hand being fixedly connected to the member leg.
US08636437B2
A corner member for a window screen for joining framing members together at the corners, the corner member having a central body, first and second legs extending outwardly therefrom, a recess formed in the central body portion, and a plurality of resilient retaining members placed in the recess, each resilient retaining member having first and second retaining tabs which extend outwardly and which are designed to retain the screen in the window frame.
US08636435B2
A dispensing system for spreadable foodstuffs and spreadable non-food substances allowing for dispensing of metered amounts of product and spreading without the need for additional utensils not part of the packaging is disclosed. The system is composed of a disposable container containing a spreadable food stuff or non-food substance. The container comprises a mechanism for dispensing said foodstuff or non-food substances while proportionally decreasing the volume of the container. An alternative embodiment discloses a disposable dispenser allowing for spreading foodstuffs or non-food substances without any additional utensils in an ultra-portable unit without mechanical components.
US08636428B2
An imaging apparatus includes a diaphragm configured to control an amount of incident light, a variable transmittance and reflectance element configured to reflect a part of the incident light to an optical viewfinder and transmit the remainder of the incident light as imaging light, and a controller configured to increase reflectance of the variable transmittance and reflectance element as a setting value of the diaphragm increases.
US08636425B2
A connector includes a ferrule assembly having a ferrule, a hub and a spring, the ferrule having a distal face accessible at a distal end of the connector housing, the ferrule being movable in a proximal direction relative to the connector housing. The distal and proximal positions are separated by an axial displacement distance. The ferrule proximal movement is against the spring's bias. The cable of the assembly includes an optical fiber contained within a jacket and also a strength layer between the fiber and the jacket that is anchored to the connector housing. The fiber extends through a fiber passage from the proximal end of the connector housing to the ferrule. The fiber has a distal portion potted within the ferrule. The fiber passage has a fiber take-up region configured to take-up an excess length of the fiber corresponding to the ferrule axial displacement.
US08636414B1
A bearing assembly for an oscillation joint on a machine having a tandem wheel drive. The bearing assembly rotatably supports an oscillating hub rotatably connected to a shaft. The bearing assembly includes a frustoconical inboard bearing having a first bearing surface and a frustoconical outboard bearing having a second bearing surface disposed thereon positioned such that the first and second bearing surfaces form a generally v-shaped bearing interface between the shaft and the hub.
US08636408B2
A temperature measurement system includes: a laser light source; an optical fiber; and a temperature measurement unit configured to acquire a measured temperature distribution of a temperature of a temperature measurement area along an installation path of the optical fiber by detecting backscattered light of the incident laser light in the optical fiber, wherein the temperature measurement unit sequentially makes a correction for the measured temperature distribution a plurality of times so as to make a square error between a convolution of a transfer function of the optical fiber along the installation path and the corrected temperature distribution and the measured temperature distribution smaller in each of the corrections, and the temperature measurement unit also replaces a corrected temperature at a specific point of the installation path with an estimated temperature at the specific point in each of the corrections.
US08636397B2
There is presented a vehicle headlamp with an imaging optics that is designed to project, as light/dark boundary, into the area in front of the vehicle headlamp, an edge that delimits a light flux of a light source of the vehicle headlamp, a boundary surface of a component of the imaging optics, through which the light flux penetrates, having an overhead element in the form of a local deformation of the boundary surface having a prismatic effect by means of which the light is deflected into an overhead area lying over the light/dark boundary. The vehicle headlamp is distinguished by the fact that the boundary surface has more than one hundred overhead elements distributed discretely over the boundary surface.
US08636392B2
A method for controlling a light emission of at least one headlight of a vehicle. The method includes receiving a change enabling signal for performing a change of the light emission of the at least one headlight from an input emission characteristic to an output emission characteristic during a debouncing period and/or debouncing distance which begin(s) in response to the change enabling signal. The method also includes changing the light emission of the at least one headlight from the input emission characteristic to an intermediate emission characteristic in response to the change enabling signal. The method also includes changing the light emission of the at least one headlight from the intermediate emission characteristic to the output emission characteristic after the debouncing period and/or the debouncing distance has/have elapsed.
US08636382B2
A light source apparatus, an image display apparatus and a television receiving apparatus are provided, which can electrically connect boards with each other even if the boards are separated from each other by more than or less than a predetermined distance. In a light source unit in which plural LEDs are aligned on one surface of a LED board 2, plural stoppers 20 are arranged at another surface 2b of LED board 2 to stop the stopper 20 at stop slits 63, 63, . . . 63 of a support member 6 which is to hold the light source unit, and to hold the light source unit to be slidable along one surface of the support member 6.
US08636377B2
A light tube holder includes a base and two connectors for receiving either a light-emitting diode (LED) tube or a fluorescent tube. The connector includes a rotary member rotatably received in a through hole defined in a retainer, and three conductive elastic pieces positioned in the retainer around the through hole. One elastic piece is electrically connected to an LED tube drive circuit board, and the other two elastic piece are electrically connected to a fluorescent tube drive circuit board. The rotary member can be rotated to first and second positions, wherein at the first position, the LED tube can be activated, and at the second position the fluorescent tube can be activated.
US08636368B2
A projection display apparatus and an actuation control method thereof are provided. A projection display apparatus includes an apparatus body that forms an optical image projected on a screen, a projection lens that projects the optical image formed by the apparatus body on the screen, a lens actuator that allows the projection lens to be shifted in a vertical direction or in a horizontal direction relative to the apparatus body, and a shift controller that limits a range of shift movement by the lens actuator such that a center position of the projection lens does not go outside of a quadrangle region of which the intersection point of diagonals is located coaxially with the position of the optical axis of the apparatus body.
US08636362B2
An ophthalmic imaging apparatus divides a frame image obtained by capturing a moving image into a plurality of regions grouping pixels, and acquires photometric values corresponding the plurality of the regions. Further, the ophthalmic imaging apparatus determines acknowledgement or dis-acknowledgement of capturing a still image based on temporal variation of the acquired photometric values or distribution of the acquired photometric values on a fundus image. The ophthalmic imaging apparatus inhibits to execute a still image capturing of the fundus if the dis-acknowledgement of capturing is determined.
US08636357B2
A contact lens having one or more fiducial marks that allow the measurement of lens rotation and centration. The lens may be a trial lens. The lenses can be used to apply correction factors for sphero-cylindrical refractive error, higher order aberrations, and corneal topography.
US08636356B2
An eye wear system comprising a frame configured to receive at least one lens, with stems pivotably coupled to the frame, wherein stems have a first portion and a second portion, and a first, i.e. open, orientation disposed generally perpendicular to the frame, and a second, i.e. collapsed, orientation disposed generally parallel to the frame. The nose pads, which can be integrally formed with the frame, form at least part of an opening configured to receive the first portion of the stem to releasably secure the stem in the second, or collapsed, orientation.
US08636355B2
A target supporting apparatus includes a first supporting member having a plurality of first suction holes open to the front surface of the member and the rear surface thereof; a second supporting member having a plurality of second suction holes formed therein and being stacked on and fixed to the first supporting member, the cross-sectional area of each of the plurality of second suction holes being smaller than the cross-sectional area of each of the plurality of first suction holes; and a sucking unit that sucks in the plurality of first suction holes and hence sucks in the plurality of second suction holes communicating with the plurality of first suction holes. Here, a target which is supported in order for a liquid to be adhered thereto is sucked and held onto a supporting face of the second supporting member due to the driving of the sucking unit.
US08636354B2
A liquid ejecting apparatus includes: a head that ejects liquid to be cured by receiving irradiation of an electromagnetic wave onto a medium; a provisional-curing irradiation section that emits a first electromagnetic wave to a dot formed on the medium by the liquid; and a main-curing irradiation section that emits a second electromagnetic wave, which has irradiation intensity higher than that of the first electromagnetic wave, to the dot to which the first electromagnetic wave is emitted. When the main-curing irradiation section emits the second electromagnetic wave, a dot forming surface of the medium faces the lower side in the direction of gravity.
US08636349B2
A continuous liquid ejection head collects droplets which are not used for printing (unused droplets) without affecting the flight of droplets which are used for printing (used droplets). An ejection nozzle and a collection nozzle collect an unused droplet by causing a liquid surface to project out from the aperture of the collection nozzle so as to be positioned in the trajectory along which droplets ejected from the ejection nozzle fly, causing the unused droplet to collide and unite with the liquid surface projected from the collection nozzle, and causing the liquid surface to retreat.
US08636332B2
The image recording apparatus includes: a recording head in which a plurality of recording elements are arranged over a length corresponding to a recordable width of a recording medium; a conveyance device which performs conveyance to cause the recording head and the recording medium to move relatively to each other one time only in a conveyance direction, a reference line being arranged on the conveyance device; an image output device which records a prescribed image on the recording medium through the recording head; a sensor which reads the reference line on the conveyance device, and reads the prescribed image on the recording medium recorded by the image output device; and a displacement evaluation device which evaluates a displacement between the reference line and the recording head in accordance with a result of reading the reference line by the sensor and a result of reading the prescribed image by the sensor.
US08636326B2
A track frame is swingably supported by a rear axle case of a travel machine body through a rocking shaft; front and rear driven wheels are disposed in front and rear end portions of the track frame; at least three idling wheels are disposed on an intermediate portion of the track frame at intervals in a longitudinal direction; a drive wheel which is disposed upward of a longitudinal intermediate portion of the track frame and is configured to receive a power transmitted from a rear axle supported by the rear axle case; and a crawler belt is wrapped around the drive wheel, the front driven wheel, the rear driven wheel and the idling wheels. Two idling wheels on a rear side of the at least three idling wheels are pivoted on a first rocking link, and a longitudinal intermediate portion of the first rocking link is pivoted on the track frame through a first pivot shaft.
US08636320B1
A system of controlling various actuators associated with human support surfaces is disclosed. Such a system is made up of a support surface, a controller, and an actuator. The system may optionally include batteries, a means of charging the batteries, and a graphical user interface as well as a communication link between the graphical user interface and the support surfaces. The actuators are capable of altering contour and/or firmness, of a support surface, they may be vibrational or heating/cooling in nature, and they may also alter the overall relative position of a support surface.
US08636315B2
A roller blind arrangement, in particular for a vehicle, with a roller blind web. The roller blind web can be wound up at least at one end by a winding device to form a roller blind winding having a geometrical center axis. The roller blind web can be unwound in an unwinding direction. The winding device has a guide element arranged with respect to the geometrical center axis of the roller blind winding in a direction essentially opposite to the unwinding direction and is designed to limit a movement of the roller blind winding in the direction opposite to the unwinding direction. The invention also relates to a roof arrangement with a roof opening, a roof opening frame that bounds the roof opening, and a roller blind arrangement. The roller blind arrangement is arranged in the roof opening and is mechanically coupled to the roof opening frame.
US08636292B2
A spring suspension assembly (50, 50A) for a vehicle which has a plurality of spring elements (77, 83, 77A, 77B, 77C, 83A, 83B, 83C, 787E, 88F, 77G, 77H, 77I, 116, 117, 132, 133, 141, 142) which are attached to an inner carrier (56, 117A) and an outer carrier (86, 120) wherein respective arrays (76, 82, 76A, 76B, 82A, 82B) are oriented in opposing or counteracting orientation and each spring elements (77, 83, 77A, 77B, 77C, 83A, 83B, 83C, 787E, 88F, 77G, 77H, 77I, 116, 117, 132, 133, 141, 142) has a shape corresponding to an arc of a circle characterized in that outer carrier (86, 120) is adapted to be mounted to a vehicle chassis and the inner carrier (56, 117A) is mountable to a vehicle axle shaft.
US08636290B2
A tool cart assembly including a tool cart having a horizontal surface defining a mounting aperture, a first rail including a bottom wall, a pair of opposed sidewalls, a front edge of each sidewall defining a catch, and at least one projection depending downwardly from the bottom wall, the projection being configured to be received in the mounting aperture such that the first rail is secured to the horizontal surface. A tool kit includes a sidewall and a first elongated rib, the elongated rib is configured to be slidably received by the first rail. The tool kit is removably secured to the tool cart by positioning the elongated first rib in the first rail and sliding the tool kit rearwardly such that the catches defined by the first rail engage a first portion of the tool kit.
US08636286B2
A face seal comprises a first half and a second half. Each half of the face seal comprises an inner sealing ring, the inner sealing ring being generally L-shaped in cross-section, an elastomer ring disposed over the inner sealing ring, and an outer ring disposed over the elastomeric ring, the outer ring being generally Z-shaped in cross-section. The inner sealing ring comprises an axially extending circular cylindrical portion, a radially extending planar ring portion coupled to the cylindrical portion, and a sealing surface defined by the seal side planar wall. The outer ring comprises an axially extending second circular cylindrical portion, a seating flange extending radially outward from a front end of the second cylindrical portion, and a backing flange extending radially inward from the rear end of the second cylindrical portion.
US08636270B2
A low cost, flexible, torqueable structure for use as at least a portion of a medical device comprises a coil formed of a wound element. The coil includes a plurality of adjacent windings. Connected portions of a region between the adjacent windings are formed (by, for example, laser welding) such that torque can be transmitted between adjacent windings.
US08636267B1
A plurality of atomizing fans are mounted on a portable land craft. A pump delivers pond water to the land craft to evaporate the pond water. A land based generator powers the pump and the atomizing fans. The entire system could be mounted on a single trailer.
US08636257B2
A support and cushioning device for supporting and holding an electronic device includes a first supporting assembly, a fixed bracket, an adjusting board, and a plurality of elastic members. The adjusting board is mounted to the distal end of the first support assembly. The fixed bracket is elastically mounted to the adjusting board by means of a plurality of elastic members. The fixed bracket includes a base body and a plurality of holding arms extending out from a periphery of the base body. The plurality of holding arms and the base body cooperatively define a holding space for holding an electronic device.
US08636247B2
A gas generator assembly includes a propellant chamber housing an amine based propellant. A reaction chamber is coupled with the propellant chamber. The reaction chamber includes a reaction chamber housing, and a porous reaction matrix within the reaction chamber housing. The reaction matrix includes a catalyzing agent, and the catalyzing agent is configured to non-combustibly catalyze the amine based propellant into one or more pressurized gases. An injector is in communication with the propellant chamber. The injector is configured to deliver the amine based propellant to the porous reaction matrix. A discharge nozzle is coupled with the reaction chamber and is configured to accelerate and discharge the one or more pressurized gases. In one example, the gas generator is coupled with one or more of an impulse turbine assembly and an electric generator to form a micro power unit.
US08636245B2
An aircraft having at least one in-flight attitude control system, in turn having at least one actuator; and a hydraulic circuit connected to the actuator and having at least one pump designed to deliver a first flow when the pressure of the hydraulic circuit is above a presettable threshold value. The pump is designed to deliver a second flow greater than the first flow, and the aircraft has a sensor for detecting a quantity associated with the pressure of the hydraulic circuit; and a programmable central control unit, which controls the pump to deliver the second flow when the quantity detected by the sensor corresponds to a pressure of the hydraulic circuit below the threshold value.
US08636239B2
The invention relates to a belt retractor for winding up and unwinding a safety belt, with at least one force transmission element which is held by a first part of the belt retractor and which can be connected to a second part of the belt retractor, the force transmission element being held in a recess of the first part in such a way that it can be pressed axially into the recess of the first part, with the result that the connection to the second part is broken.
US08636232B2
A method for spraying a medium mist, particularly a medium mist used in firefighting, over a large area. In the method, at least two sprays of medium mist are formed, of which a first spray is within a second medium mist spray at least at or near the spraying point. During the formation of the sprays, the medium is set into a swirling motion at least before the discharge opening of the nozzle used to form each spray and/or at least before the sprays are mixed with each other. The swirling directions of the medium in different sprays are opposite to each other, whereby a preferably homogeneous mist spray spread over a large area is achieved.
US08636224B2
There is described a system and method for automatically discriminating between different types of data with an image reader. In brief overview of one embodiment, the automatic discrimination feature of the present image reader allows a human operator to aim a hand held image reader at a target that can contain a dataform and actuate the image reader. An autodiscrimination module in the image reader in one embodiment analyzes image data representative of the target and determines a type of data represented in the image data.
US08636214B2
Systems and methods for recognition of encoded information on documents are disclosed. According to an aspect, a system includes a document reader configured to read encoded information from a document, and to output an electrical signal representative of the encoded information. The system also includes signal conditioning modules that are each configured to receive the electrical signal, and to condition the received electrical signal differently for outputting a plurality of conditioned electrical signals. Further, the system includes an information recognition module configured to analyze each of the conditioned electrical signals and to select one of the conditioned electrical signals for use in recognizing the encoded information.
US08636206B2
Aspects and embodiments of the present invention relate to alternative kinds of transactions, which do not involve payment using only cash or a token device such as a smart card or chip and PIN card. In some embodiments, transactions involve a customer providing token-less transaction authentication information using customer interface means (150) that is adapted to receive, from a customer, in a first mode of operation, PIN or other token device authentication information, for use in a token device transaction, and token-less transaction authentication information, when operating in another mode of operation. In some embodiments, the customer interface means may be a specially-adapted chip and PIN card reader apparatus. Accordingly, such a customer input means facilitates manual input by a customer of voucher, coupon, accrued loyalty points, Air Miles, ticket or pass authentication information, without the need for a retailer to install new equipment or IT infrastructure.
US08636202B2
Provided is an apparatus that stores a formulary. The apparatus includes a memory device that stores the formulary, the formulary comprising a plurality of drug entries. A user input device allows a user to verify a drug of the plurality of drug entries of the formulary. A code reader interprets computer-readable codes. After a computer-readable code that is associated with the drug is read by the code reader, the drug is verified using the user input device.
US08636200B2
A method of operating a reader system includes: establishment a hand held reader configured to read an information bearing medium at an establishment and accepting text message communications from the establishment; reading the information bearing medium at the establishment with the reader; and, sending at least one text message communication to an operator of the reader at the establishment on the reader GUI from the establishment when the establishment recognizes a need for a specific notice requirement after reading the information bearing medium.
US08636196B2
A separator with a helix assembly that includes a plurality of segments disposed end to end and forming an intermediate casing. Each of the segments has a tubular portion with a first circumferential edge and a second circumferential edge and a helical portion extending from the second circumferential edge. The tubular portions of the segments form an intermediate casing, while the helical portions of the segments form a spiral helix. The helix assembly further includes an inner casing concentrically disposed within the intermediate casing and coupled to the spiral helix.
US08636193B2
A staple pocket arrangement on the anvil portion of a surgical stapler device includes pairs of staple pockets corresponding to each one of a plurality of staples to be closed. The staple pockets may have a generally triangular shape when viewed from above. Each respective staple leg is received at a longitudinal end of the staple pocket that provides a relatively wide target area for receiving the staple leg to eliminate or at least minimize the likelihood that a staple leg will miss the staple pocket due to, e.g., misalignment between a first jaw of the surgical stapler having the anvil and a second jaw of the surgical stapler having a cartridge configured to fire the staples. The staple pockets may be arranged in rows, each row of staple pockets being longitudinally offset from another row, such that each staple pocket in a first row of staple pockets is nested with a staple pocket from an adjacent row of staple pockets to make more efficient use of space on the anvil.
US08636188B2
This document discloses, among other things, a long reach, side ejecting fastener placement apparatus suitable for use in nasal septal surgery. A first linear member carries a fastener body and a second linear member delivers a fastener retainer or provides support for placement of the fastener body. In various examples, the fastener includes a single stud rivet or includes a two legged staple. A mechanical linkage coupled to the handle provides a linear force for placement and deployment of a fastener.
US08636185B2
A nailer includes a power source including a piston reciprocating within a cylinder, a driver blade secured to the piston for common movement relative to a nosepiece, a magazine connected to the nosepiece for feeding fasteners sequentially for being driven into a workpiece by the driver blade, a delay mechanism operatively associated with the magazine and configured for engaging a second fastener and delaying advancement of the subsequent fastener to the nosepiece until the driver blade returns to the pre-firing position after driving a leading fastener.
US08636182B1
A device for movably mounting a storage container in relation to the storage bed of a pickup truck. The device includes a container support frame with a mounting member configured to be fixedly secured in relation to the pickup truck storage bed, and a lift arm having a first end coupled to the container support frame for pivotal movement about a first pivot axis and a second end configured to be coupled to the storage container for pivotal movement about a second pivot axis. The second end of the lift arm is movable along an arcuate path about the first pivot axis between a stowed position in which the storage container is disposed between the side rails and an extended position in which the storage container is disposed above a side rail. The storage container is pivotable about the second pivot axis to maintain an upright orientation in the stowed and extended positions, providing a variety of convenient access and storage options. Also, the frame can be confined to a very small portion of the storage bed or hidden within existing components of the storage bed to allow substantially unimpeded top and rear access to the storage bed.
US08636180B2
A pinch valve for use with a liquid dispensing cabinet is comprised of a tube pinching device configured to translate between an open position and a closed position and an electrically powered linear actuator configured to provide a valve opening force to the tube pinching device, The pinching device is coupled to a spring device configured to apply a valve closing force to the tube pinching device. The pinch valve is additionally comprised of an operator handle facilitating manual opening of the tube pinching device. The pinching device is rotatable in the valve body. The valve body has a front surface heat sink against which a tube pinching force is applied by a tube pinching device and a rear surface with a concavity configured to receive a tube carrying a heat transferring fluid. The tube pinching device can be operated electrically or manually.
US08636172B2
Devices, systems and methods for controlling dispensing of medication are provided. A dispenser device used, for example, in the systems and methods can include a housing for storing units of medication and a dispensing well having an opening therein to permit removal of units of medication therefrom. The dispenser device can include first and second slides having openings therein that are configured to funnel a unit of medication toward the opening in the dispensing well. The opening in the first slide can be configured to funnel a unit of medication to the opening of the second slide upon movement of the first slide, while the second slide can be configured to funnel the unit of medication to the opening in the dispensing well upon movement of the second slide into a position that is aligned with the opening in the dispensing well.
US08636161B2
A two-part closure (1) which has a disc (2) and a skirt (3). In one example, the skirt wall is smooth between upper and lower rims so that the disc is moveable between the rim features. Typically in a metal skirt or ring, the upper rim feature is a curl (11) and the lower rim feature is a curled edge (12) with equi-spaced lugs (13) on the skirt wall.
US08636156B2
A rack for storing objects on a door has at least two uprights, at least two hanging brackets, a plurality of shelf supports, a plurality of shelves and at least two hanging links. The uprights are spaced apart a distance equal to a length of the shelves and spaced from the door by ends of the uprights angled toward the door. The shelves may be disposed at an angle relative to a vertical position of the uprights wherein a superior mounted pair of uprights has hanging links depending from a lower support end and the hanging links are engaged upon an upper support end of another pair of uprights.
